The latest edition of Steinberg’s acclaimed HALion software has arrived, bringing exciting new features and enhancements to this already beloved virtual instrument. HALion 7 introduces a wealth of capabilities that expand upon its predecessors, offering users advanced tools and functionalities for unparalleled music creation and sound design. This update includes Yamaha/Steinberg-developed FM synthesis, a novel spectral oscillator, and the versatile Tales open-tuned guitar. With six synthesis methods, an advanced sample engine, scripting, and innovative modulation options, HALion 7 is designed to elevate your music production experience.

One of the standout features of HALion 7 is its FM Zone, developed in collaboration with Yamaha, the pioneers of FM synthesis. This section allows users to experiment with up to eight operators, which can function as carriers or be routed through feedback loops. The inclusion of the Algorithm Finder and Algorithm Designer tools enhances the ability to craft both classic and contemporary sounds. Additionally, HALion 7 now supports the import of DX7 and TX81Z files, making it even more versatile for users familiar with Yamaha’s legendary FM synths.

The virtual instrument’s Spectral Zone is another major highlight. This feature includes a cutting-edge spectral oscillator, equipped with an in-house developed time stretch and resynthesis algorithm. This technology allows for the transformation of samples into entirely new sounds, with real-time playback speed adjustments that do not alter pitch. Users can manipulate formant shifts, spectral filters, and inharmonicity, and the FFT view provides a detailed visualization of the spectrum, offering deeper insight into sound design.

HALion 7 also introduces Tales, an open-tuned guitar that combines acoustic and synthesized textures. Tales captures the essence of open-string articulations, harmonics, and muted notes, making it ideal for a range of musical styles from ballads to contemporary acoustic pop. The ability to split samples into tonal and noise components further enhances the possibilities for creating unique sounds.

For those focused on modulation, HALion 7 offers a powerful and intuitive approach. The new modulation system enables users to easily tweak, shape, and animate their sounds. Modulation rows allow for quick assignment of parameters, with drag-and-drop functionality simplifying the process. The addition of a new visualization feature ensures that all modulations are clearly represented, making sound design more accessible and efficient.

The software also features an array of tools for envelope and impulse response (IR) management. The User Envelope tools include options for drawing and customizing envelopes with brush, pen, and eraser features. The Shaper mode provides customizable LFOs that sync with the host DAW’s tempo. The impulse response library includes various spaces, from halls and studios to iconic hardware units, offering a broad range of reverb options for enhanced sound design.

The HALion 7 virtual instrument’s user interface has been redesigned to improve usability and focus. Enhancements include streamlined menus, icons, and tools, as well as options for auto-sizing and preconfigured screen sets. MediaBay integration provides an uncluttered structure and context-sensitive search capabilities, allowing users to find what they need quickly. The Macro Page Editor facilitates the creation of custom instruments, and the ability to load SVG resources and use Lua expressions adds flexibility to the design process. The revamped vector graphic controls library ensures that your instruments not only perform well but also look impressive.

The advanced wavetable synthesis engine in HALion 7 includes 1,024 individual waves and supports multichannel files up to 5.1 surround. The Spectral Filter allows for detailed customization of each wave, while automatic interpolation handles transitions between waves smoothly. Parameters like Acceleration and Target Speed provide dynamic control over wavetable manipulation, making HALion 7 an invaluable tool for composers, sound designers, and wavetable enthusiasts.

Steinberg HALion 7 Virtual Sampling Instrument and Sound Design Software Features:

• Six forms of synthesis, including FM developed with Yamaha, a high-performance sample engine, scripting, and innovative modulation options
• FM synthesis with eight operators, Algorithm Finder, and Algorithm Designer
• Spectral Zone with a spectral oscillator and advanced time stretch/resynthesis algorithm
• Tales: an open-tuned guitar with acoustic and synthesized textures, and sample splitting capabilities
• Comprehensive modulation options with drag-and-drop features and visualization tools
• Customizable envelopes with brush, pen, and eraser tools; extensive IR library
• Redesigned user interface with improved menus, zones, icons, and MediaBay integration
• 1,024 waves in the wavetable synthesis engine, with support for multichannel files and detailed wave customization

HALion 7 offers an impressive array of features for sound design and music production, making it a powerful addition to any producer’s toolkit.