DUNE 3

What DUNE 3 is

DUNE 3 is a software synthesizer from Synapse Audio for Windows and macOS, built on the company’s DUNE 2 synthesizer. Its sound engine supports virtual analog, wavetable, and FM synthesis. The full version comes with more than 1,000 patches and can load patches compatible with DUNE 2. Sound shaping includes a dual multimode filter with serial or parallel routing, Balance control, and zero-delay feedback filter types. Two independently programmable arpeggiators can play patterns, sequences, or MIDI files, and include Random mode and Arp Hold. The wavetable editor allows drawing, partial editing, formula-based creation, and WAV import and export. Oscillator 3 can also load mono or stereo WAV files, with 16-, 24-, or 32-bit depth and sample rates from 44.1 to 192 kHz. DUNE 3 provides two master effects buses, each with nine effects, including distortion, chorus, phaser, EQ, delay, and reverb. It comes as VST2, VST3, Audio Unit, and AAX plug-ins, supports Native Instruments NKS, and works with Maschine and Komplete Kontrol S-Series keyboards. A 30-day trial is available for PC and Mac. The product requires a 64-bit compatible host and a 2.5 GHz quad-core CPU or better; AAX requires Pro Tools 11 or later.

Who it suits

DUNE 3 suits music producers who want a plug-in synthesizer with virtual analog, wavetable, and FM synthesis, extensive sound editing, and a large patch library. It is also a fit for users of compatible Windows or macOS hosts, including those working with NKS, Maschine, or Komplete Kontrol S-Series keyboards.

Limits

The trial usually expires after 30 days and may prevent saving settings. The listed host requirements include a 64-bit compatible host and a 2.5 GHz quad-core CPU or better; AAX requires Pro Tools 11 or higher.

Getting started

1. Open the Synapse Audio DUNE 3 website.
2. Download the PC or Mac trial version to try the synthesizer.
3. Use a Windows 7 SP1 or later or macOS 10.14 or later system.
4. Load DUNE 3 in a 64-bit compatible host.
5. For AAX use, have Pro Tools 11 or later.

Verdict

Choose DUNE 3 if you want a synthesizer with several synthesis methods, detailed wavetable editing, arpeggiators, and a broad set of plug-in formats. The 30-day trial offers a way to try it, though trial versions may prevent saving settings. Check the listed host and processor requirements before choosing it.