Sample Logic have announced the release of the latest version of their powerful MIDI step sequencer and arpeggiator plug-in. Animation Station 2.0 builds on the capabilities of its successor with the introduction of more versatile pattern switching, a reworked modulation system, improved transposition and more.
Animation Station has been designed to help users quickly create arpeggiation patterns and step sequences that can be used to control virtual instruments or sample libraries. It is powered by the company’s Step Animator engine, which can be triggered with single notes or chords, or even set to generate entirely random patterns. To find out more about what it can do, take a look at our review of the original version in the November 2021 issue of SOS.
What’s New?
With the launch of the latest version, Animation Station is now able to switch between four different patterns. A right-click menu allows copying and pasting of parts as well as resetting patterns, and there are four assignable keyswitches that allow users to quickly change between loaded patterns. The plug-in’s preset management has also been updated to support the new multi-pattern functionality.
The built-in modulation features have also been updated, and have been kitted out with two new modes of operation. The mod wheel can be used to manipulate the sequencer, but instead of editing the sequence directly, it records modulation data alongside the plug-in’s velocity and duration information. Absolute mode will cause recorded modulation to ignore any current values, whilst Relative mode will merge it, using existing values as a middle point.
Two edit modes have been added to the Transpose sliders: Octave and Chromatic, which can be activated via a right-click menu or by holding the Shift key whilst moving one of the sliders. The plug-in’s Latch Filter function has also been updated, offering a 200ms window to allow multiple notes within a single played chord to be latched simultaneously.
Additionally, Animation Station’s global settings are now visible to DAWs as plug-in parameters, allowing users to automate the gate, velocity sensitivity and swing parameters. The company say that they have also addressed a number of bugs, and implemented a range of stability improvements.
Compatibility
Animation Station 2.0 is supported on PCs running Windows 7, 8 or 10, and Macs running macOS 10.11 and above. VST, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Animation Station 2.0 is available now, and is currently (9 August 2023) being offered for an introductory price of $99.99 for two weeks, after which it will cost $149.99. Owners of the previous version are eligible for an upgrade price of $25.
