Music Weapons has released Nuclear Lite, a free lightweight version of the commercial Nuclear sound module virtual instrument for PC and Mac (VST/AU).
With a name like Nuclear and a GUI featuring 36 touch pads, I expected this ROMpler released by MusicWeapons.com to have mainly digital synthesizer sounds. And because the Lite version is free, I expected them to sound inexpensive and generic. However, listening to the in-depth YouTube video about Nuclear, I quickly realized I assumed wrong.
For example, the instrument features a set of acoustic guitar sounds (with finger picking and strumming articulations) that may be the most authentic I’ve heard. There are also lots of live and electronic drum kits that sound splendid. They’re all made of individual samples that you can trigger to create a custom drum part that will feel natural and authentic.
The synthesizer sounds are pre-processed and layered to create “go-to” sounds that already sound polished and inspiring for starting out your song or putting the finishing touches on it. There are even live strings and pianos that sound pretty good. The sample library is extensive. Even the free Lite version is over 13 gigs in size, whereas the full version tops out at around 80 gigs.
The general controls of Nuclear include channel faders and mute/solo buttons for multi-layered sound adjustments, balance, reverb, hiss, electrical noise, tape pop, radiation, pitch, and master volume (aptly named “Ear Pain”). In other words, there are more than enough controls to dial in the sound you are looking for. In addition, the factory presets are already processed and essentially production-ready.
Please note that a valid email address is required in order to download Nuclear Lite. By providing your email address, you will be subscribed to the Music Weapons mailing list.
Nuclear Lite is available for free download via Music Weapons (13.3 GB download size, RAR archive, 32-bit & 64-bit VST/AU plugin format for Windows & Mac OS, made with Maize Sampler).
