Yamaha Releases ESP - Virtual Montage M Softsynth Plugin

Bringing the Montage M Synth Workstation into Your DAW with Yamaha's Expanded Softsynth Plugin

NEWS  Plugins VST  January 29, 2024  Reading time: 3 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

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In October of last year, Yamaha unveiled Montage M. Building upon its predecessor's success, the Montage M introduced a host of new features, including the innovative AN-X synth engine, an additional display for enhanced usability, and poly aftertouch on the 88-key version. However, one of the most exciting developments accompanied this release: the introduction of the Expanded Softsynth Plugin, or ESP.

Yamaha ESP – Expanded Softsynth Plugin

The ESP plugin (Expanded Softsynth Plugin)represents a significant advancement in Yamaha's approach to integrating their hardware synthesizers into digital audio workstations (DAWs). With ESP, users gain access to the full power of the Montage M sound engine within their preferred DAW environment, such as Ableton Live or Logic Pro.

This means that musicians can now harness the rich sonic capabilities of the Montage M directly within their production workflow, opening up a world of creative possibilities.

One of the standout features of ESP is its ability to replicate the Montage M's sound engines faithfully, including the groundbreaking AN-X engine. This ensures that users can enjoy the same high-quality sound output without the need for physical hardware, making it ideal for both studio production and live performance scenarios. Whether you're on the go or collaborating with other musicians, ESP ensures that the Montage M's signature sounds are always within reach.

Moreover, ESP facilitates seamless integration between the Montage M hardware and the plugin itself. Users can create new sounds using the ESP soft synth and effortlessly export them to their Montage M workstation, or vice versa. This functionality enables musicians to carry their custom sounds with them wherever they go, whether visiting another studio or performing on stage.

The Future of Yamaha ESP

While Yamaha has currently restricted access to the ESP plugin to Montage M owners, there is speculation about the possibility of opening it up to a wider audience in the future.

Similar exclusivity was initially seen with other Yamaha products, such as the MiniFreak plugin, which later became available to all users. Whether Yamaha will follow suit remains to be seen, but the potential for broader accessibility is certainly an intriguing prospect.

In a recent interview at NAMM 2024, Blake Angelos from Yamaha discussed the Expanded Softsynth Plugin with Nick from Sonicstate, emphasizing its innovative approach to DAW integration. The release of ESP marks a significant milestone in Yamaha's ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of music technology and empowering musicians with cutting-edge tools for creative expression.

 NAMM 2024 - YAMAHA MONTAGE M ESP [VIDEO CREDITS: SONICSTATE] 

Availability and Compatibility

Yamaha ESP is now available as a free download for existing Montage M owners. Accessing the plugin requires an access code provided in the packaging of each Montage M unit. ESP operates as a VST3 and AU plugin, compatible with macOS  and Windows operating systems. For more information and to download Yamaha ESP, visit the dedicated page on the Yamaha website.

 

 IMAGES CREDITS: YAMAHA