About

Physical modelling is a process of recreating the physical reactions and unique interplay of both physical and electronic components using mathematical models and algorithms to create a realistic reproduction.

  • Physically modelled instruments simulate the playability and complex behaviour of real acoustic instruments.
  • Because there are no samples, the file size of these plugins are just a tiny fraction of that required by other virtual instruments.

This is an excellent overview of physical modeling compared to sampling;

Physical Modeling Plugins

  • Ableton
    • Tension - physical modeling string synthesizer capable of creating incredibly accurate reproductions of real stringed instruments or otherworldly hybrids
  • Applied Acoustics Systems
    • Chromaphone - creative synthesis with real-life acoustic character
    • Ultra Analog VA-3 - performs as a unique and powerful synth that is fast, easy, and remarkably versatile
  • Audio Modeling
    • SWAM String Sections - truly innovative suite of four plug-ins, corresponding to the orchestra sections Violins, Violas, Cellos, and Double Basses, and based on Audio Modeling’s exclusive modeling technology
  • Arturia
    • Piano V - finest array of production-worthy pianos
  • Expressive E
    • imagine - a playful world of unknown acoustic sounds
  • Modartt
    • Pianoteq - award-winning virtual instrument
  • Physical Audio
    • Derailer - physical modelling instrument plugin built from mathematical models of strings, bars and spring connection elements
    • Modus - virtual world of conceptual instruments, modelled with cutting edge physical behaviours and acoustic properties
    • Preparation - based on mathematical modelling of 2 basic elements; strings which can be configured as bars, and a rattling element
  • Rhizomatic
    • Plasmonic - captures the complex acoustic resonances of Physical Modeling, expands on it with more familiar elements of Subtractive Synthesis, and adds a few unique twists

YouTube Videos

Chromaphone

Derailer

Imagine

Modus

Piano V

Pianoteq

Plasmonic

Preparation

SWAM String Sections

SWAM: Orchestra at Your Fingertips-Audio Modeling

Tension

Ultra Analog