u-he Ace v1.4.1

Gateway into modular

ACE: Any Cable Everywhere

Compact, clear, a careful selection of modules and semi-modular architecture makes ACE easy to learn. Simple but not simplistic. Compact but not limited. Clear but definitely not underpowered. With the ability to connect any output into any input, ACE is a powerful synth with tools and features ready for beginners or seasoned users.

Main Features:

• Semi-modular architecture (with default routing)
• Oscillators include pulse width modulation (PWM), sync, internal ring and cross modulation (FM)
• Polyphonic (up to 16 voices), duophonic or monophonic (retriggered or legato)
• Powerful glide options: constant rate or constant time, percentage range control, per-oscillator offset
• Up to 8 voice unison (stack) with +/−2 octave individual detuning

• 2 multimode analogue-style filters
• 2 ADSR envelopes with fall/rise, snap, singing option for authentic analogue-style voice triggering
• 2 LFOs with 0Hz to 20kHz frequency range (can be used as VCOs)
• 2 multiplex modules for signal mixing / crossfading, ring modulation, amplitude modulation etc.
• 1 syncable and loopable ramp generator
• Mixer with modulation inputs

• MIDI modulation and performance: wheels, velocity, pressure, key follow, gate, 2 user-definable MIDI CC
• Circuit bending options: slop, crosstalk, oscillator cap failure
• 3 effects: chorus/phaser (4 types), delay (7 fixed options), bass and treble controls
• Multichannel MIDI support
• Resizable UI from 70% to 200%
• Over 920 factory presets

 The “boxes and cables” philosophy of modular synthesizers gives you the freedom to create your own custom instruments. Once you start connecting the sixteen modules in ACE—exploring new combinations, cross-pollinating ideas—the vast potential of modular soon becomes clear.

Sounds

The two VCOs act as the main sound generators, but as ACE does not differentiate between audio and control (modulation) signals, the full-range LFOs can also be used to generate audio frequencies.

ACE’s oscillators are modelled on analogue circuits, including instabilities and various non-linear characteristics. You can push these characteristics further using the Circuit Bending options.

If the bottom end needs beefing up, try adding the sub-oscillator. For more intense, complex sounds, try VCO2’s ring modulation, sync and cross modulation.