As a music producer, you know the right sounds and tools can make all the difference. If you’re comparing synthesizers, it’s easy to get stuck between popular options like Arturia Pigments 6 and Serum 2 from Xfer Records. While Serum 2 has its widely known merits, Pigments 6 goes above and beyond to deliver innovation, versatility, and creativity all at once.
Here’s why I think that Pigments 6 is the clear winner – and why it’s a must-have for your production studio.
Pigments 6 vs. Serum 2: Why Pigments Wins
1. More Ways to Create Amazing Sounds
Arturia Pigments 6 isn’t just another wavetable synth – it’s a complete sound design powerhouse. It combines modal synthesis (aka physical modeling), wavetable synthesis, granular tools, vocoder effects and analog emulation – giving you endless creative possibilities. Whether you’re creating cinematic textures, experimental ambient soundscapes or electronic beats – Pigments 6 has the tools that you need.
In contrast, Serum 2 by Xfer focuses only on wavetable synthesis. It can deliver clean, sharp sounds but also limit your options. With Pigments 6, you can explore different synthesis methods and craft sounds Serum simply can’t achieve.
2. Features That Spark Creativity
Arturia Pigments 6 introduces groundbreaking features:
- Modal Synthesis Engine – which can help you create physical modelling based sounds that are inspired by real acoustic instruments – like plucked strings, blown woodwinds, bowed textures, drum hits and other percussive sounds.
- Vocoder – can add unique vocal effects to your music.
- Granular Enhancements – the deep granular engine can help you generate textural atmospheric soundscapes with ease.
- Advanced Filters and Modulators – which give you precise control of your sound design.
These features make Pigments 6 a tool for producers who want their music to stand out. Xfer Serum 2, while reliable, doesn’t offer all of these cutting-edge options.
3. Designed to Inspire
Creating music should be fun – and that’s exactly what Pigments 6 is about. Its colorful yet balanced, smooth and elegant interface is visually engaging, making complex workflows easy to manage. You can experiment with sounds effortlessly, even if you’re new to synthesis.
The Serum 2 interface is clean, however lacks some of the aspects that make Pigments 6 so inspiring to use. If you want a synth that encourages creativity, Pigments 6 is just the better choice in that regard.
4. Great Value for the Price
When it comes to price, Pigments 6 offers more value for your money. At the current price of $199, you’re not just getting a synthesizer – you’re getting a versatile toolkit that is absolutely perfect for sound design. Serum 2 is slightly cheaper at $189, but its limited synthesis options mean you’re paying for less.
Who Should Choose Pigments 6?
Arturia Pigments 6 is ideal for producers who:
- Want flexibility and versatility in sound design.
- Enjoy experimenting with new tools and production techniques.
- Create a variety of music genres, from electronic to cinematic.
Now, although Serum 2 seems like a very optimal option for those focused exclusively on wavetable synthesis or clean electronic sounds, if you want a synthesizer that opens up endless possibilities – Pigments 6 is the definitive answer.
Buy Pigments 6
Arturia Pigments 6 is not just another commercial synthesizer – it’s a creative tool that can really transform your music and take it to new heights. Why settle for limitations when you can have a synth that does it all?
You may click the button below to purchase Arturia Pigments 6 via Plugin Boutique. For transparency, the link is affiliated, so every sale that is generated from it supports me directly.
Compatibility
Arturia Pigments 6 is compatible with 64-bit Windows PC and Mac (macOS) systems. It is available as a standalone application as well as in the following plugin forms: VST (VST2/VST3), AAX (Avid Audio Extension) and the Audio Unit format (AU). The NKS standard is supported.
