Serum 2 Is Out: Evolution of an Iconic Wavetable Synthesizer

Today Xfer Records released Serum 2, marking a substantial update to their renowned wavetable synthesizer. This release, 11 years (would you believe it?) after the original, introduces a range of new features that expand Serum’s capabilities while maintaining its reputation for accessibility and sound quality. And the update is free for v.1 users!

Multi-Engine Synthesis: A New Frontier

Serum 2 has evolved from a wavetable specialist into a multi-engine synthesizer, offering producers and sound designers a broader palette of sonic possibilities:

• Enhanced Wavetable Oscillator: Refined with smooth interpolation, new warp modes, and dual warps, pushing the boundaries of wavetable synthesis.
• Multisample Oscillator: Enables realistic instrument emulation with a comprehensive library of orchestral, choir, piano, and guitar samples. The integration of the open-standard SFZ format is a smart move for expandability.
• Sample Oscillator: Features advanced looping, flexible modulation, and real-time sample slicing capabilities, reminiscent of dedicated samplers.
• Granular Oscillator: While perhaps not as deep as some specialized granular synths, it offers an accessible entry point into this complex form of synthesis.
• Spectral Oscillator: An unexpected addition, providing real-time harmonic resynthesis and transient detection for intricate sound shaping.

Expanded Creative Arsenal

Serum 2 goes beyond oscillator improvements, offering a suite of new tools that enhance its versatility:

• Flexible Effects Routing: A revamped effects section with three channels and multi-band processing options. The addition of convolution reverb and Bode frequency shifting expands the sound design potential.
• Arpeggiator and Clip Sequencer: These new tools for creating rhythmic and melodic patterns transform Serum from a pure synthesizer into a more comprehensive production instrument.
• Enhanced LFO Engine: An expanded variety of shapes for complex modulations, likely to result in more dynamic and evolving sounds.
• Additional Macro Controls: Four new macros for increased real-time sound manipulation, potentially enhancing live performance capabilities.

A Community-Focused Approach

Xfer Records’ decision to offer Serum 2 as a free upgrade for all existing Serum 1 owners is a commendable move. It not only demonstrates their commitment to their user base but also ensures that the entire Serum community can explore these new features together.

Market Position and Competition

The synthesizer market in 2025 is highly competitive, with formidable options like Arturia’s Pigments 6, Current 2, Native Instruments’ Massive X, Vital and others. However, Serum 2’s expanded capabilities, combined with its established user base and reputation for accessibility, position it strongly in this landscape.

The new synthesis types and creative tools, such as the clip sequencer and arpeggiator, make Serum 2 feel like a more complete production tool.

However, some users have pointed out that while Serum 2 is a significant upgrade, it may not necessarily outperform all competitors in every aspect. The choice between Serum 2 and its rivals may ultimately come down to personal preference, workflow, and specific sound design needs.

Availability and Pricing

Serum 2 is available now for an introductory price of $189 until June 1, 2025, after which it will return to its regular price of $249. It supports VST3, AU, and AAX formats on both macOS and Windows platforms.

For more information and to purchase Serum 2, visit the official Xfer Records product page.