Combining simplicity with pure tone-shaping power, Filter SEM is a futuristic twist on a classic synth filter.
Renowned for its pioneering technology in the 70s, we paid tribute not only to its sound but also the SEM’s reputation as a trailblazer. Using the meticulous modelling techniques, and by adding exciting new features, we have created a true modern classic audio filter.
No longer confined to a synthesizer, you can now use the era-defining filter tone of Tom Oberheim’s cult synth module on any audio source you wish. Process acoustic instruments in your DAW, shape vocals, perform sweeps on your whole mix, create builds, rises, and drops, even use it to improve a soft-synths stock filter.
Filter SEM is a must-have creative tool for any modern musician.
Simple,
but stunningly effective
The original SEM, or Synthesizer Expander Module, was one of the world’s first all-in-one synth packages.
Created to expand the capabilities of other synths, it could serve many purposes. Adding polyphony, fattening up their sound, and performing sequences in a supporting role to a main synth were all familiar roles for SEM.
One of the most remarkable modules on the SEM was its VCF. The 12dB per octave multi-mode filter helped define the sonic identity of Oberheim®’s popular 70s synth, because it shaped a diverse range of sounds that were almost impossible to get on other synthesizers. Filter SEM not only carefully models the crossfadable modes of the filter - low-pass, high-pass, notch and band-pass, but also expands its functionality and features to create a great-sounding, versatile filter plugin that you’ll want to use on every track you create.
“But what does a filter
actually do?”
For many music producers and electronic musicians, filters are an essential part of their sound and creative process. Put simply, filters cut or boost certain sound frequencies, letting you control the tonal ‘shape’ of audio.
For example, if you had a vocal recording that you wanted to remove some low, bassy rumbles from, you could use a high-pass filter.
A low-pass filter could be used in the same way, but to remove unwanted high frequencies; maybe to tame particularly zingy cymbals or hi-hats in a drum recording.
Notch filters can pinpoint certain frequencies and either boost or cut them; one great use for these is to find and remove clothy, unwanted mid-range resonance from recordings of acoustic instruments.
Originally developed to remove broadcast noise and make the most of radio bandwidth, nowadays filters are an essential creative tool for music professionals.
Hear the creative potential
of Filter SEM, and be inspired
We’ve created a few audio demos to let you hear the power of this awesome, versatile filter; examples that will hopefully fire your creativity and spark your imagination.
Although we’ve kept the fun, instant, and accessible design of the original synth alive in Filter SEM, we’ve also included dozens of presets for you to be inspired by. Created by our award-winning sound design team, each one has been crafted to show off the best elements of Filter SEM, and are instantly usable in your tracks. You’ll also find they’re a great starting point for creating your own unique filter sounds and effects.
Want to try it on your own audio? Remember that you can download a free trial of the plugin so you can experience it in your own setup.
SEM 4 Bars Buildup
Victor Morello
Rising lowpass cutoff automation over 4 bars. Useful for any application!
SEM Cronenbergmatic 2000
Victor Morello
Mangling the original source, LFO modulating the Filter Out at audio rate and a set of various modulations.
SEM Drums Filter Seq
Victor Morello
Modulation of both the cutoff frequency and the noise level, creating a hi-hat track on top of some heavy cutoff modulation.
SEM Pumpit Up
Victor Morello
You can have a lot of fun with this powerful tempo-synced LFO controlled preset. Hear it add a whole lot of movement and life to this electronic extract.
SEM Technologic
Victor Morello
A fast rhythmic envelope sequence affects the filter frequency and output, which can lead to very pleasant surprises when affected to a sequence like this guitar arpeggio here.
Vintage tone combined
with powerful contemporary features
Bringing that inimitable SEM filter tone back to life is a miracle in itself, but we wanted to push the envelope. Pun intended.
Able to bring another dimension to whatever audio source you choose, the story of our reworked SEM architecture started in 2012, when we released SEM V; our analog modelled, virtual emulation of the classic. Through component analysis and the advanced techniques of our TAE technology, we were able to reproduce not only the filter, but every aspect of the original instrument in software. A hit as part of our V Collection, we couldn’t help but wonder what SEM’s filter would be capable of as a standalone plugin.
Once we isolated its VCF, we added some contemporary functionality that launch this iconic filter straight into the 21st century. Every aspect of Filter SEM, including all of the modern additions, are all controllable via MIDI CC, so should your DAW allow it, you’ll be able to control and perform using Filter SEM in your live sets, too! Speaking of the additions, let’s take a look at what we added to this cult synth icon:
Noise Oscillator
The effect of any filter becomes more dramatic when you add noise, so we included a noise oscillator to let you add as little or as much as you like to your signal.
Soft clipping
The original SEM circuitry could be driven into saturation with the right settings, and we’ve made the process even easier. Turn soft clipping on, and push the input gain, and you’ll get some sweet analog saturation.
Gate sequencer & mod sources
The new, easy to program gate sequencer lets you trigger or retrigger the envelope and LFO mod sources. This can be used to create vibrant, animated filter sequences, or subtle, undulating effects.
Simple Mod Matrix
To add a little bit of creative versatility to Filter SEM, we included a concise modulation matrix, letting you get creative and explore sound design potential never possible with the original.
Included in
FX collection
実践的なエフェクト群
このエフェクトはFX Collectionに内蔵されているものですが、ミュージシャン、プロデューサー、アーティストにクリエイティブな音楽制作を可能にする、必要不可欠なオーディオエフェクト・プラグイン集です。驚異的な高精度でモデリングされたアイコン的なレコーディング機器から最先端のコンテンポラリー・エフェクトまで、このコレクションには最も人気の高いスタジオ機材、希少なギター・ペダル、モダンなミック・スエンハンサーなどを収録しています。あなたの音楽制作をさらに向上させ、これまで以上にミックスに色彩を加えることができます。
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主な特長
必要です
リバーブの素晴らしいトーン、硬質なプリアンプ、そして素晴らしいサウンド・デザイン能力など、これらのプラグインをどのように使うにせよ、これらのプラグインは、主要DAWのすべてと互換性があり、WindowsとMacOSの両方で動作します。ご安心ください。
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TAE®による高精度エミュレーション
独自のアナログモデリング技術により、オリジナルの実機と聞き分けがつかないほどの高精度エミュレーションを実現。
アナログ・オシレーター、フィルター、ソフト・クリッピングの特性も正確に再現することで、細かいコンポーネントの違いが生み出すディテールやアナログの魅力を体感することができます。
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Main Features
Virtual recreation of the classic 12dB/oct state variable SEM filter:
- Mode, cutoff frequency and resonance controls
- Dry/Wet setting
- Filter output volume setting
Additionnal noise oscillator for feeding the filter with rich spectral content
Soft clipping circuit modeling
Attack / Hold / Decay envelope
Low Frequency oscillator
- 5 waveforms + Sample and Hold mode
- Can be synchronized with DAW’s clock
- Smooth parameter
Gate sequencer
- Program trigs / retrigs for the envelope and LFO to create rythmic content
- Up to 16 steps
- Can be synchronized with DAW’s clock
Modulation matrix
- Envelope and LFO as sources
- 8 destinations for extended sonic possibilities
40 presets from top sound designers
State-of-the-art TAE® analog modeling
Platforms specifications
Windows
- Win 10+ (64bit)
- 4 GB RAM
- 4 cores CPU, 3.4 GHz (4.0 GHz Turbo-boost)
- 1GB free hard disk space
- OpenGL 2.0 compatible GPU
- ARM processors not supported on Windows
Required configuration
- VST, AAX, Audio Unit, NKS (64-bit DAWs only).
Apple
- Mac OS 11+
- 4 GB RAM
- 4 cores CPU, 3.4 GHz (4.0 GHz Turbo-boost) or M1 CPU
- 1GB free hard disk space
- OpenGL 2.0 compatible GPU
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- An elegant and simple solution to help you install, activate, and update your Arturia software.
* All manufacturer and product names mentioned on this page are trademarks of their respective owners, which are in no way associated or affiliated with Arturia. The trademarks of other manufacturers are used solely to identify the products of those manufacturers whose features and sound were studied during the development. All names of equipment, inventors, and manufacturers have been included for illustrative and educational purposes only, and do not suggest any affiliation or endorsement by any equipment inventor or manufacturer.
Oberheim® is a registered trademark of Tom Oberheim®, which is in no way associated or affiliated with Arturia. All manufacturer and product names mentioned on this page are trademarks of their respective owners, which are in no way associated or affiliated with Arturia. The trademarks of other manufacturers are used solely to identify the products of those manufacturers whose features and sound were studied during the development. All names of equipment, inventors, and manufacturers have been included for illustrative and educational purposes only, and do not suggest any affiliation or endorsement by any equipment inventor or manufacturer.
*NKS ready