Native Instruments Absynth 6 – creative hybrid synthesizer

Go beyond the limits of ordinary synthesis. Absynth 6 marks the rebirth of Native Instruments’ legendary synthesizer, known for its ethereal tones, evolving textures, and deep, atmospheric sound. The new version preserves the character of the classic Absynth while introducing modern sound design tools, full MPE support, immersive surround audio, and a redesigned, intuitive interface.

Key Features

• Hybrid semi-modular engine combining subtractive, FM, wavetable, and granular synthesis.
• Three-channel oscillator architecture with deep modulation routing.
• Over 2000 factory presets, including more than 350 brand-new sounds.
• Signature creative effects including Aetherizer and Cloud Filter.
• Polyphonic aftertouch and full MPE support.
• Redesigned waveform editor and visual preset browser.
• Hardware integration with Komplete Kontrol keyboards and Maschine.
• Full backward compatibility with previous Absynth versions.

Hybrid synthesis without limits

Absynth 6 is built around a powerful semi-modular, three-channel oscillator system. Each channel can operate in one of four modes: subtractive, FM, wavetable, or granular. These can be combined freely to create unique, evolving sonic landscapes. The redesigned interface offers fast access to key modulation, filter, and effects parameters, making complex sound design intuitive and immediate.

Creative sound design tools

At the heart of Absynth 6 lies the Mutator – an intelligent sound-morphing engine that generates new tones by mutating existing presets. You can control the depth and randomness of each mutation, with a built-in history that lets you revisit earlier variations. It’s a powerful source of inspiration for both beginners and advanced sound designers.

The new 68-point envelopes enable highly detailed, multi-stage modulation, perfect for creating organic movements, evolving pads, and expressive rhythmic sequences. “Sample Jump” envelopes add subtle randomness and variation for a more natural, evolving feel.

Effects and spatial depth

Absynth 6 retains its iconic creative effects that defined the original instrument. Aetherizer transforms sound into swirling clouds of granular echoes, while Cloud Filter introduces resonant, evolving motion. Each effect supports multichannel surround processing (5.1 and 7.1), making Absynth 6 ideal for cinematic and immersive audio production.

Modern interface and integration

The redesigned interface focuses on clarity and workflow. The visual preset browser makes navigating thousands of sounds effortless, and the waveform editor gives precise control over harmonic shape and modulation. Full integration with Komplete Kontrol and Maschine provides seamless parameter mapping and hands-on control in any studio setup.

Expression and performance

With MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) and polyphonic aftertouch, Absynth 6 responds to every nuance of your playing. Subtle gestures such as pressure, pitch bends, and timbral variations can be mapped individually per note, allowing an unprecedented level of expressive control for live performance and studio work.

Applications

Absynth 6 is the perfect tool for electronic producers, film composers, sound designers, and experimental musicians. Whether you’re crafting lush ambient textures, intricate rhythmic patterns, or cinematic soundscapes, Absynth 6 delivers endless sonic possibilities for any genre – from ambient and techno to soundtracks and avant-garde compositions.

Technical Specifications

• Three-channel semi-modular oscillator architecture
• Synthesis types: Subtractive, FM, Wavetable, Granular
• 68-point multi-stage envelopes with looping and sustain
• Effects: Aetherizer, Cloud Filter, plus additional surround effects
• Full 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound support
• Integration with Komplete Kontrol, Maschine, and MTS-ESP microtuning
• Over 2000 factory presets (350 new)
• System requirements: Windows 10/11 or macOS 14–16, 4 GB RAM (6 GB recommended), 64-bit VST3/AU/AAX host

Software design and interface

Absynth 6 is a fully digital software instrument optimized for modern production environments. Its GUI is built with a new rendering engine for Retina and 4K displays, ensuring sharp visuals and smooth performance even in large projects.

Included in the box

• Full license for Native Instruments Absynth 6 software
• Over 2000 factory presets (including 350 brand-new sounds)
• Native Access and Komplete Kontrol integration
• Digital user manual (PDF)

Summary

Absynth 6 is more than just a synthesizer – it’s a creative laboratory for sonic exploration. Combining the heritage of the original Absynth with advanced tools like MPE, surround processing, and the Mutator engine, it empowers artists to transcend boundaries and shape entirely new sound worlds.