Roland JUPITER-8 is a synthesizer that needs no introduction. Since its introduction in 1981, it has remained one of the most sought-after analog synths of all time.
With its iconic tones, producers, songwriters, and composers have created countless hit songs that still provide inspiration to this day. However, owning a real Roland JUPITER-8 is not an option for most musicians due to its rarity and high cost.
The solution? VST plugins that emulate its sound.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best Jupiter 8 VST plugins on the market today.
Best Jupiter 8 VST Plugins
1. TAL-J-8 by TAL – Best Overall
TAL is known for creating some of the best software emulations of classic synthesizers, and the TAL-J-8 is no exception.
This plugin accurately emulates the sound of the Roland Jupiter-8 and also adds some modern features that make it a standout option for any producer or composer. Real-time modulation, options to calibrate the plugin to match the sound of a particular hardware unit, and a built-in arpeggiator are just some of the features that make TAL-J-8 a formidable contender.
2. Jup-8 V by Arturia – Best Premium Option
Arturia is another brand known for creating high-quality software emulations of classic synths, and Jup-8 V is no exception.
This plugin emulates the sound of the Jupiter-8 and adds modern features such as a preset browser, a macro system for easy control mapping, and tutorials to help new users navigate the plugin with ease. The analog model makes the plugin stand out from other options in its price range, along with the fact it’s a well-rounded synth that can be used in a variety of genres.
3. Mercury-4 by Cherry Audio – Best Budget Option
If you’re on a tight budget and want a quality Jupiter 8 plugin, you can’t go wrong with Mercury-4 by Cherry Audio.
It’s an emulation of the Jupiter-4 and is capable of producing rich analog synth sounds, complete with modern MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE) capabilities. It’s also set at an affordable price point, making it accessible to those who are just starting out on music production.
4. Sotto X by Sonokinetic
This semi-modular analog synth plugin takes inspiration from the Jupiter-8 but adds its own touch, including orchestral phrases derived from an extensive gear list that included a custom preamp and an Eventide H3000 effects processor.
The attention to detail in Sotto X is commendable, with a user interface that is both intuitive and attractive. Synth players will love the simplicity of the design and the ease of getting lost creating sounds with this plugin.
5. Diva by u-he
Although not strictly an emulation of the Jupiter-8, Diva is nevertheless a dinosaur soft synth that emulates several analog synthesizers, including Jupiter-8.
It’s famous for its presets that capture the essence of the classic synths yet offer a modern twist. The filters and envelopes make it perfect for creating classic pads, otherworldly soundscapes, and bassline.
Overall, u-he’s Diva is a synthesis powerhouse that keeps on giving as users can layer, tweak, and blend sounds to their heart’s content. 6.
Go2 by Rob Papen
Go2 is a streamlined synth plugin with a user interface that puts the Roland Jupiter-8 and SH-101 – two classic iconic synths- front and center. It packs a punch with its XY pad, LFO, envelope, and MPE capabilities, all of which can be used to create a vast range of sounds.
With its fast workflow, Go2 is ideal for anyone looking for a synth plugin that can expose their creativity with minimal distractions.
Conclusion
The world of VST plugins can be overwhelming, but the six Jupiter-8 plugins above offer something for every type of musician, from beginners to seasoned professionals. The plugin market is an excellently affordable gateway to the world of synthesizers, and with the Jupiter 8, musicians can now access the tones that made the original synth most sought after.
VSTs are cost-effective, convenient, and provide a worthy substitute for musicians on a budget. No matter what your budget, use case, or workflow preferences, there is likely to be a Jupiter 8 plugin that will meet your needs and standards.
Happy producing!
3. What to Look for in a Jupiter 8 VST Plugin
There are several factors to consider when choosing a Jupiter 8 VST plugin that best suits your needs.
Here are some of the most important factors to consider:
a. Sound Quality
One of the key reasons why producers and musicians love the Jupiter 8 synth was its rich and warm sound that had an analog feel.
Therefore, a Jupiter 8 VST plugin should have an accurate emulation of the original synth’s sound. In this regard, the TAL-J-8 by TAL, Jup-8 V by Arturia, Cherry Audio’s Mercury-4, Sotto X by Sonokinetic, and Diva by u-he are some of the most recommended options as their sound quality is almost indistinguishable from that of the original Jupiter-8 synth.
b. Features
Beyond sound quality, it is essential to consider a Jupiter 8 VST plugin’s features.
Some features to look for include modulation options, presets or FX, multi-sampled instrument sets, MPE support, and the availability of the original synthesizer sections such as LFOs, oscillators, and envelopes. For instance, Mercury-4 by Cherry Audio offers MPE support, while Diva by u-he has an impressive integration of filters and envelopes, along with an extensive preset library.
c. Budget
While it’s tempting to settle for cheap VST plugins, especially when you’re on a tight budget, it’s essential to be reasonable in your budget allocation.
Ideally, you should budget anywhere from $50 to $200 for a high-quality Jupiter 8 VST plugin. Some options may cost slightly more, such as Jup-8 V by Arturia, which is a premium option, though this comes with added perks such as features such as a macro system for straightforward control mapping.
4. Final Thoughts
Jupiter 8 VST plugins have revolutionized the music industry by making classic analog synths accessible to a broader audience.
These plugins complement the original Jupiter 8 synth’s craftsmanship and offer musicians the chance to make music with a quality product at an affordable price point. When choosing a Jupiter 8 VST plugin, consider the sound quality, features, and your budget.
In the end, it all comes down to your preferences and the sound you’re trying to create. Experiment with different plugins and find the one that works best for your style and workflow.
Remember to have fun, as making music is all about exploring and enjoying the creative process with new tools. In conclusion, if you’re looking for a new Jupiter 8 plugin, these six options are worth considering.
With different price points, features, and sound quality, you’re sure to find one that suits your needs. Feel free to try out different plugins and let us know which one you like best.
Happy music-making!
In conclusion, Jupiter 8 VST plugins have made it possible for musicians to emulate the iconic sounds of the sought-after Roland Jupiter-8 synth at an accessible price point. When searching for a Jupiter 8 VST plugin, it is essential to consider the sound quality, features, and budget.
The TAL-J-8 by TAL, Jup-8 V by Arturia, Cherry Audio’s Mercury-4, Sotto X by Sonokinetic, Diva by u-he, and Go2 by Rob Papen are some of the best options, each with its own unique features. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and the sound you want to produce.
Try out different options, get creative, make music, and have fun.