Legacy Symptohm
Key Features
- SyncGrain synthesis engine with two sample-based oscillators that can stretch, pitch-shift, and reverse looping audio waveforms
- Integrated Quad Frohmage filter bank with eight filter types including comb, ring modulator, and Moog-style modes
- Over forty parameters with individual LFO and ADSR envelope modulation for deep, evolving sound design
- Melohman preset morphing system allowing MIDI-triggered transitions between 12 presets in seven performance modes
- Ring-modulatable sub-oscillator and noise generator for layered tonal complexity
- Library of 1,200+ presets spanning ambient textures, metallic timbres, and experimental digital sounds
- Dual interface skins: classic analogue rack layout and experimental Ohm Force 'funky' design
Description
Legacy Symptohm by Ohm Force is an experimental synthesizer built around a proprietary SyncGrain engine that blends granular synthesis with sample playback. Two SyncGrain Oscillators use looping audio samples as waveform sources, letting you stretch, pitch-shift, and reverse them for sounds that sit far outside conventional synthesis territory.
The oscillators feed into a Quad Frohmage filter bank derived from Ohm Force's standalone filter plugin. Filter types span classic low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, peak, and notch modes alongside more exotic comb, ring modulator, and Moog-style options, with over forty parameters available for modulation via dedicated LFOs and ADSR envelopes.
A ring-modulatable sub-oscillator and noise generator round out the sound sources, giving patches a foundation that ranges from deep sub-bass to harsh metallic textures. The Melohman preset system assigns up to 12 presets to keyboard keys, enabling smooth morphing between variations during performance in seven different modes.
The plugin ships with over 1,200 presets that showcase everything from eerie ambient textures to aggressive digital chaos. Users consistently praise its ambient and metallic timbres while noting that deeper sound design rewards patience with the manual.
Originally a commercial product, Symptohm was released as a free legacy plugin when Ohm Force shifted focus to new products. It supports VST, AU, and AAX on macOS (Apple Silicon via macOS 12+, Intel via macOS 10.15) and Windows.
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Tips
- Experiment with the SyncGrain Oscillators to create unique textures by manipulating the sample playback parameters.
- Utilize the Quad Frohmage filter bank to add complex filtering effects to your sounds.
- Take advantage of the extensive modulation options to create evolving and dynamic patches.
- Use the Melohman technology to morph and randomize presets during live performances for added expressiveness.
- Explore the over 1000 included presets to get a sense of the plugin's capabilities and as a starting point for your own sound design.
- Integrate Symptohm into your workflow for both experimental sound design and traditional synthesis tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Legacy Symptohm still supported by Ohm Force?
No. Ohm Force released Symptohm as a free legacy plugin and no longer provides technical support for it. The plugin still functions in current DAWs, but no future updates or bug fixes are planned.
Can I load my own samples into the SyncGrain oscillators?
Yes. Each of the two SyncGrain Oscillators accepts a single looping audio sample as its waveform source. You can replace the default waveforms with your own samples and then stretch, pitch-shift, or reverse them within the engine.
What is the Melohman preset system and how does it work?
Melohman is Ohm Force's proprietary preset management technology. It assigns up to 12 presets to keyboard-style buttons that can be triggered via MIDI, allowing smooth real-time morphing between sound variations during live performance or studio sessions. Seven different morphing modes let you customize transition behavior.
Does Legacy Symptohm work on Apple Silicon Macs?
Yes. The legacy version supports Apple Silicon natively on macOS 12 (Monterey) and later. Intel Macs are supported on macOS 10.15 (Catalina) only.
