PE > MPE in modern VSTs

MPE in Modern Software Synths: Unlocking Next-Level Expression

MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE) has revolutionized how musicians and producers interact with digital instruments. By allowing per-note control of parameters like pitch, timbre, and aftertouch, MPE opens the door to an unprecedented level of expression within the software synth realm. Below, we delve into the state of modern MPE-compatible VSTs, highlighting why they’re essential for any producer looking to push the expressive boundaries of electronic music.

Why MPE Matters for Soft Synths

Traditional MIDI limits expression to global controls per channel, meaning all notes share the same pitch bend, modulation, or aftertouch. MPE uses multiple channels—one per note—so each note in a chord can have its own articulation and modulation. This elevates virtual instruments to feel more like acoustic counterparts, closing the gap between digital production and live, organic performance.

1. Equator2 by ROLI

Designed by the makers of some of the most iconic MPE controllers (the ROLI Seaboard series), Equator2 integrates seamlessly with MPE hardware. Its interface provides a clear visualization of per-note expression, allowing for dynamic performance and deep sound design.

  • What Sets It Apart: Tight integration with ROLI Seaboard instruments, making setup and calibration straightforward.

  • Sound Character: Warm, lush pads, intricate leads, and an array of expressive presets ideal for contemporary electronic and cinematic music.

2. Vital

Vital has made waves for its intuitive UI, robust synthesis engine, and free-to-use model. On the MPE side, Vital maps pressure, pitch bend, and other data to nearly any parameter, making it a powerful playground for expressive modulation.

  • What Sets It Apart: Real-time visual feedback of oscillators and modulation makes per-note expression more transparent, particularly helpful for those new to MPE.

  • Sound Character: Exceptional for creating evolving pads, bass lines with subtle pitch inflections, and leads that respond dynamically to player input.

3. Surge XT

Surge started as a premium synth but transitioned to open-source, and Surge XT continues that legacy with an expanded feature set and solid MPE support. It offers a wealth of oscillators, filters, and modulation options tailored to expressive play.

  • What Sets It Apart: Open-source community development ensures frequent updates, bug fixes, and a growing library of MPE-ready presets.

  • Sound Character: Flexible enough to cover classic analog emulation, digital waveforms, and experimental textures.

4. Pigments by Arturia

Arturia’s Pigments stands out for its broad synthesis palette—combining wavetable, virtual analog, granular, and sampling engines. Thanks to advanced modulation routing, MPE gestures can target nearly any parameter, from oscillator pitch to filter cutoff.

  • What Sets It Apart: An approachable UI with color-coded modulation that helps visualize per-note changes.

  • Sound Character: Versatile; equally adept at vintage-inspired tones and futuristic soundscapes.

5. U-he Synths (Zebra2, Hive 2)

U-he is renowned for its high-quality synths, many of which now include MPE support. Zebra2’s semi-modular structure and Hive 2’s streamlined interface both respond to per-note articulation data, letting producers craft complex patches that evolve expressively.

  • What Sets It Apart: U-he’s attention to sonic detail results in instruments that rival top-tier hardware in depth and clarity.

  • Sound Character: Ranges from analog warmth and film scoring pads to cutting-edge electronic textures.

6. Phase Plant by Kilohearts

Phase Plant has gained a cult following for its modular, layer-based design, which can incorporate wavetable, sampler, and analog-style oscillators in a single patch. Its recent updates include robust MPE support, allowing each layer or oscillator to respond differently to per-note data.

  • What Sets It Apart: Highly flexible signal routing lets you split MPE parameters across multiple generators, enabling complex interplay of layered sounds.

  • Sound Character: Perfect for building intricate, evolving patches that shift timbre with every expressive gesture.

7. Omnisphere by Spectrasonics

Omnisphere has long been a staple for cinematic composers and electronic music producers, and MPE support has added a new layer of depth. With its massive library of sound sources and granular synthesis engine, Omnisphere excels at transforming subtle performance gestures into expansive sonic shifts.

  • What Sets It Apart: Enormous preset library combined with deep sound design possibilities, all controllable on a per-note basis.

  • Sound Character: From lush pads and epic film score textures to hybrid electronic-acoustic tones that respond dynamically to MPE gestures.

8. Falcon by UVI

Falcon is known for its comprehensive suite of oscillators, effects, and scripting engines, making it a powerhouse for advanced sound designers. MPE integration allows each note to interact with Falcon’s extensive toolset—everything from granular processing to physical modeling can be manipulated per note.

  • What Sets It Apart: Multi-engine design paired with modular scripting tools means you can customize how each note responds in real time.

  • Sound Character: Capable of producing everything from realistic orchestral layers to surreal, experimental soundscapes.

Expanding Your Expressive Palette

Beyond these leading examples, more synth developers are adding MPE support with each passing year. Whether you play a dedicated MPE controller like the ROLI Seaboard or simply want to add nuanced expression via per-note automation, an MPE-capable VST can transform your music.

Tips for Maximizing MPE in Soft Synths:

  • Assign multiple parameters—such as filter cutoff, wavetable position, or distortion—to separate MPE dimensions for more organic interplay.

  • Explore presets specifically crafted for MPE to learn how professionals route per-note data.

  • Combine with expressive controllers (e.g., Seaboard, LinnStrument) for the most natural, tactile feedback.