Filter M12

The multi-mode monster synth filter, reborn.

The legendary analog polysynth's filter reworked as a superbly powerful, modern plugin for your DAW. When it comes to depth, complexity, and creative scope, nothing comes close to the M12-Filter.

If you want a filter with depth, character, and complexity; look no further.

Filter M12 is a full-featured recreation of the multi-mode filter found in Oberheim®’s iconic Matrix-12, kitted out with awesome updates that make this plugin one of the most powerful, performable sound-shaping tools around.

Combining intuitive, gorgeous-sounding modelled analog filter tone control with programmable modulation envelopes, a detailed mod matrix, and bonus random and mod osc parameters, Filter M12 is set to become your go-to choice for creative frequency control. Create anything from smooth sweeps to rhythmic motion, all the way to full-blown, randomized glitch meltdowns: this plugin can handle it all.

The most advanced,
adaptable filter of its era

This filter is now available as a re-energized creative plugin for your DAW.

In 1984, audio and electronics legend Tom Oberheim developed a groundbreaking subtractive, analog polyphonic synthesizer; a brave move when the digital synth revolution was taking the industry by storm. Standing the test of time, his brainchild instrument is now considered a classic, and our emulated version takes pride of place in V Collection. One of the main reasons it turned heads in the 80s was its audacity, the sheer power of its signal routing options, and its multi-mode filter.

The original synthesizer’s filter employed a single filter per voice, but provides no fewer than 15 different filter modes. This included Low Pass and three High Pass modes, two Band Pass modes, a Notch filter, and a Phase Shift mode. It also included another 4 modes, combining 1-Pole Low Pass filters with other modes. This unique selection of filter options is largely responsible for the immense power and scope of the fabled Matrix sound.

“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.

No one can be told what the Filter M12 sounds like,
you’ll have to hear it for yourself

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.

Speaking of imagination, if yours needs a kickstart, you’ll find a whole host of presets within Filter M12 to get you started on your modular filter adventure. Created by our award-winning sound design team, you can get the very best out of this advanced multi-mode filter with ease.

We tamed the beast, now it’s your turn to see what it’s capable of.

M12 Audio Zapper

Victor Morello

This preset responds to the incoming audio signal and adds a satisfying "zap" to the transients.

M12 Guitar Wah Maker

Victor Morello

Resonant filtering on a guitar riff, emulating a wah effect. The audio signal triggers an envelope controlling both the filter cutoff and rate of the modulation.

M12 Kick and Tops

Victor Morello

This preset will generate a Kick Drum/Tom and some Tops/HiHats from whatever youll feed to it. The spectral balance of the source will define the outcome.

M12 Lovely Stutter

Victor Morello

Combined functions with the same shape but out of phase creates a nice gated rhythmic effect on this synth pad.

M12 Ratchet Club

Victor Morello

Complex patch that modulates the looping envelope rate, producing a ratchet-like effect. Applying it to this drum and bassline loop results in a tightened and varied groove.

Iconic filter tone
with a modern twist

As if accurately recreating Tom Oberheim’s original filter wasn’t amazing enough, we have also supercharged this virtual version with contemporary features that we know you’re going to love.

Practically an instrument in its own right, our reborn Filter M12 is packed with intuitive yet powerful features. With it, you’ll be able to transform your source material into totally new sounds; create pulsing patterns; perform dramatic sweeps; or simply hone your tone using one of its many filter modes. Its CPU-friendly, low latency architecture also make it the perfect, animatable filter to use in your live sets and performances.

Made possibly through the magic of Arturia’s True Analog Emulation technology, we originally brought the sonic signature of this 80s icon into the 21st century studio in Matrix-12 V, our critically acclaimed software version of Oberheim®’s classic, and a jewel in the crown of the Arturia V Collection. Call it selfish, but we are a company of musicians, and we wanted to unleash the power of Matrix-12 V’s filter, free it from the software synth, and create a new, exciting DAW plugin. To echo the depth and complexity of its synth family, we supercharged the filter with extra processing, modulation envelopes, and vast routing options with a modulation matrix.

Twin analog filters

The plugin features two discrete analog filters, each identical to the original with cutoff and resonance control, as well as all 15 original modes. For total control freaks, we have also added filter effect panning and level control for each filter.

Filter processing

Filter M12 offers 4 filter routing options: A, B, series, and parallel, giving you huge control over its sound. We’ve also included a dry/wet knob, as well as a MatrixBrute-style master cutoff that affects both filters at once.

Modulation envelopes

This control section lets you adjust each of its 3 envelopes, letting you create anything from slowly evolving sonic mutations to full-on step sequences. Tempo-sync’d or free and easy, continuous or one-shot, it’s all up to you.

Modulation matrix

The brain of the operation. With your filters prepared, your processing selected, and your mod envelopes assigned, you can link your envelopes, random, and mod osc to over 20 destinations, all discretely configurable.

Included in
FX collection

Effects you'll actually use

This effect is part of FX Collection, a suite of essential audio effect plugins empowering musicians, producers, and artists to get creative with their production. From iconic recording gear modeled with breathtaking accuracy, to cutting-edge contemporary effects, the collection includes the most sought-after studio tools, rare guitar pedals, modern mix enhancers, and beyond. Elevate your production and add color to your mix like never before.

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The features
you need

  • DAW ready

    However you use these plugins; for the amazing tone of their reverb, for the gritty preamps, or for their incredible sound design abilities, you'll be safe in the knowledge that they are fully compatible with your setup. These plugins work with all major DAWs, and on both Windows and MacOS.

  • ASC

    Arturia Software Center lets you download, organize, and update all of your Arturia software titles in one place, as well as manage all of your licenses across multiple devices. Keep it simple.

  • Resizable GUI

    Whether you want the full visual immersion of our classic effects emulations, or to save precious screen real estate, the interfaces for all of your Arturia plugins can be resized to a scale that suits you.

  • Real-time control

    Every parameter in every FX Collection plugin can be mapped to your favorite MIDI controller for instant, hands-on control of your mix. Sweep a filter, crank a preamp, or warp your modulation on the fly.

  • In-App Tutorials

    Every plugin in FX Collection comes with built-in tutorials, guiding you step-by-step through the crucial parameters, adjustments, and mixing hacks to get the most out of your sound. The tutorial panel also explains the controls you’re using in real-time - so you’ll never miss a tweak.

  • Preset browser

    FX Collection’s streamlined preset browser lets you filter, organize, and save your favorite presets for instant recall. Search by instrument type, genre, production technique, and much more - so you can quickly find the tweak you need and save valuable creative time!

TAE® Powered

The exclusive analog modeling technology that makes our emulations indistinguishable from the originals.

By accurately mimicking the characteristics of analog oscillators, filters, and soft clipping, we can provide astonishing component-accurate detail and authentic analog charm in equal measure.

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Main Features

Virtual recreation of the Matrix 12 multimode filter

  • 2 instances of the Matrix 12 filter within one plugin instance
  • 15 disctincts filter modes available per filter instance
  • Cutoff frequency, resonance, pan and out volume controls for each instance
  • Master cutoff control for controlling both instances' cutoff at once
  • 4 audio routing configurations
  • Global dry / Wet and output filter controls

Random values genrator

  • Can be synchronized with DAW’s clock

3 advanced multi-segments envelopes

  • 2 modes: loop or triggered by audio
  • Synchronized with DAW’s clock
  • Can be used as LFOs, step sequencer or envelopes
  • Predefined presets

Modulation oscillator

  • Audio range modulatotion source for parameters frequency modulation
  • 5 waveforms

Modulation matrix

  • Envelope, random generator and mod oscillator as sources
  • 8 assignable destinations slots with 22 reachable parameters

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 10.13+
  • 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

Work with ASC

  • 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.

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