Native Instruments Razor, Manual

Page: 9 / 74

2 What Is RAZOR?
RAZOR is a powerful synthesizer to be used with REAKTOR PLAYER and REAKTOR 5.5.
The instrument uses additive synthesis to create state of the art 'synthetic' sounds.
RAZOR simulates features of classic synthesis concepts like subtractive filters, dissonance
occurring in Frequency Shifters or certain aspects of physical modeling as a start. These
features get improved and extended by means of additive synthesis to achieve a previously
unheard of quality. So a resonant lowpass filter for instance sounds very precise and
sharp. Filters have new features like variable filter slopes or new resonance shapes that go
beyond 'real' filters. In addition to these extended simulations RAZOR brings new highly
innovative features like new filter types, new ways to create dissonance, partial panning ef­
fects, pitchable reverbs and much more that is only possible with additive synthesis.
RAZOR has a powerful and easy to use modulation scheme. Most parameters can be
modulated by an extensive list of modulators. Even stereo effect parameters can be modu­
lated.
RAZOR takes a new approach concerning effects. Instead of inserting a bunch of audio ef­
fects behind the synthesizer most effects are instead done inside the synthesizer itself to
give them a new sonic twist. Echoes are achieved by echoing envelopes. This feature re­
sults in echoes merged with the dry sound in a unique way. Instances of the echo reflec­
tions can be modulated. They can be pitched, filtered and made non-harmonic using a
new and innovative modulator called 'Echo Steps'. The reverbs are synthesized reverbs us­
ing additive synthesis. They have a unique feature: they follow the pitch of the voice, ena­
bling you to play melodies with the reverb tail! Some effects like a flanger and phaser are
available as filter types. 'Dissonance effects' make the sound non harmonic in unheard
ways. Parameters of all of these 'part of the synthesizer' effects can be modulated to cre­
ate lively sounds. The only 'real' effects are found in the 'dynamics' section offering com­
pressors and distortion effects to create more punch, warmth and dirt.
RAZOR comes with more than 300 professionally designed presets. Its factory library con­
tains a large variety of basses and lead sounds as well as soundscapes and special effects.
Modifying these sounds or creating new ones is an easy task. RAZOR offers familiar pa­
rameters to control its powerful additive engine under the hood. Its interface is intuitive
and straight forward and has just the right balance of complexity versus usability. All ac­
tive parts are visible to ease the workflow.
What Is RAZOR?
RAZOR - Manual - 9