Steinberg has unveiled the latest version of its flagship sampling and sound creation system with new FM synthesis features, a new Spectral Zone, a sampled open-tuned guitar and much more, adding to the already comprehensive feature set. Alongside this major release, updates to HALion Sonic and the all-encompassing Absolute collection offer a wide range of sounds and instruments.
HALion 7 introduces two completely new zones: the FM Zone and the Spectral Zone. Dedicated to FM synthesis, the FM Zone combines up to eight operators that can be used as carriers or sent to feedback loops, and its algorithm designer helps to create every imaginable FM sound — from classic DX7 tones to present-day sounds. The Spectral Zone features a spectral oscillator with a newly developed time stretch and resynthesis algorithm which works great even at extreme settings and also transforms samples into new sounds. But its true power unfolds with the included formant shift, spectral filter, purity and inharmonicity.
Further highlights of this new version are the instruments, FM Lab and Tales. FM Lab is an eight-operator FM synthesizer that features algorithms from the Yamaha DX7, FM-X and TX81Z, 20 high-quality effects in a five-insert rack, many modulation options and an arpeggiator for creating evolving sounds. Tales is an open-tuned guitar, with each string individually sampled as open notes and tuned to different pitches, plus recording articulations like muted notes and harmonics.
For easier workflows, HALion now features new modulation rows, allowing users to click directly on the modulation destination or source for further edits, as well as assigning modulation sources by easy drag and drop. The User Envelope now offers pre-designed shapes and allows customers to design completely customized envelope shapes as well. Users also will enjoy the new look of HALion 7, thanks to an updated user interface and redesigned MediaBay, allowing for easier access to HALion's content and controls. Its uncluttered structure and context-sensitive search make browsing for the right samples, layers, programs and presets more efficient. Improved menus, zones and icons, the optional auto-size for macro view and preconfigured screen sets for different use cases also make using HALion faster and more intuitive.
HALion 7 uses the identity-based Steinberg Licensing system, first introduced last year, which offers significant new flexibility without the need for a physical copy-protection device.
Other updates to the HALion family include HALion Sonic 7, which is now the free player for HALion libraries and replaces HALion Sonic SE. The new HALion Sonic 7 Collection comprises the HALion Sonic 7 player, all instruments from HALion 6 plus the brand-new FM Lab and Tales instruments. With Absolute 6, customers receive all the instruments and expansions known from the previous version of Absolute plus new HALion 7.
HALion 7 comes with endless sonic possibilities for music production and sound design. With the many additions like FM and spectral synthesis, new advanced tools, and outstanding instruments, HALion delivers infinite inspiration for creating unique sounds.
Florian Haack, senior marketing manager at Steinberg
Availability and pricing HALion 7 is available from selected dealers and through the Steinberg Online Shop for €349 ($349.99).
The HALion Sonic 7 Collection is available exclusively through the Steinberg Online Shop for €249 ($249.99) and Absolute 6 for €499 ($499.99).
Tales and FM Lab are available as standalone libraries for HALion Sonic 7 for €119 ($119.99) and €149 ($149.99) respectively.
A range of downloadable updates and upgrades, crossgrades, and education versions are exclusively available through the Steinberg Online Shop. Customers who have activated HALion 6, Absolute 5 or earlier versions since November 1, 2022, are eligible for a free, downloadable grace period update to the latest version.
Find Absolute 6, HALion 7 and HALion Sonic 7 Collection in the KVR Marketplace
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