XILS 3

XILS 3 by XILS Lab brings the experimental spirit of the EMS Synthi and VCS 3 into a matrix-based modular synthesizer. Six oscillators arranged in three pairs, wave shaping, colored noise and a nonlinear low-pass filter provide the foundation for characterful basses, shifting drones and unusual electronic textures. Its pin-matrix routing encourages exploration, with audio-rate modulation and hundreds of possible connections per patch. A three-line polyphonic sequencer can drive notes or modulation, while looping envelopes, sample and hold, ring modulation and a programmable joystick add movement. Chorus, delay and spring reverb help shape the finished sound. XILS 3 also works as an effects processor, using pitch tracking, envelope following and gate detection to interact with incoming audio. It suits producers who enjoy hands-on sound design, vintage analog character and evolving sequences, with hundreds of presets offering useful starting points.