Serum 2 – What’s new & should you upgrade?

​Serum 2, the highly anticipated successor to Xfer Records’ renowned wavetable synthesizer, has finally arrived, bringing a ton of new features and enhancements to the table.

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons to upgrade, guide you through the upgrade process, dive into the exciting new features of Serum 2, and highlight some fresh presets to complement your sonic arsenal.​

Should you upgrade?

If you aren’t sure whether or not to upgrade to Serum 2, the answer is a easy—it’s clear “yes” and an absolute no-brainer. Here’s why:​

• Free Upgrade for Existing Users:
  Xfer Records stands by its commitment to lifetime free updates. If you own Serum 1, you can upgrade to Serum 2 at no additional cost. ​
• Seamless Compatibility:
  All your existing presets, wavetables, etc. are fully compatible with Serum 2. You won’t lose any of your previous work.
• Enhanced Features:
  Serum 2 introduces a host of new functionalities that significantly boost its sound design capabilities. From advanced oscillator types to an improved modulation system, the enhancements are substantial.​

That’s why it’s an easy “yes”. The upgrade is free if you own Serum already. It’s fully backward compatible with all your Serum 1 presets. Plus, you get a ton more new features on top. Why wouldn’t you upgrade?

How to upgrade.

Upgrading to Serum 2 is a straightforward process:​

1. Visit the Serum 2 Product Page:
   Navigate to the official Serum 2 page on Xfer Records’ website. ​
2. Log Into Your Account:
   Use your existing Xfer Records account credentials. If you purchased Serum 1 through Splice’s Rent-to-Own program, ensure you use the same email associated with your Splice account.
3. Access the Free Upgrade:
   Once logged in, you’ll have the option to “purchase” Serum 2 for $0.00, effectively granting you the free upgrade.​
4. Download and Install:
   After completing the transaction, download the Serum 2 installer compatible with your operating system. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.​
5. Authorization:
   Upon launching Serum 2 for the first time, you’ll be prompted to authorize the software. Follow the provided steps to complete the activation.​

That’s literally it!

What’s new in Serum 2.

Now the exciting bit! Here are some of the highlights of what’s new in Serum 2.

Expanded oscillator capabilities

• Three Primary Oscillators:
  Unlike Serum 1’s two-oscillator setup, Serum 2 offers three primary oscillators, providing greater flexibility in sound design.​
• Multiple Oscillator Modes:
  In addition to the classic wavetable mode, Serum 2 introduces:​
  • Multisample Mode:
    Play multisampled instruments using the SFZ format, enabling realistic replication of acoustic instruments.​
  • Sample Mode:
    A versatile sampler for creative manipulation and playback of audio samples.​
  • Granular Mode:
    Granular synthesis capabilities allow for intricate textures and evolving sounds.​
  • Spectral Mode:
    Manipulate the frequency spectrum of sounds for unique timbral shifts.​

Advanced filter section

• Dual Filters:
  Serum 2 features two independent filters with new virtual analog types, offering series or parallel routing options for complex filtering scenarios.​
• Direct Manipulation:
  Adjust filter parameters directly using graphical controls for intuitive sound shaping.​

Enhanced & new FX

• Multiple FX:
  You can now use the same type FX multiple times. You’re not just limited to one instance anymore.
• Dual FX Busses:
  Two separate effects busses provide added flexibility in processing chains.​
• New FX:
  Additional effects such as frequency shifter and convolution expand the sonic palette.​

Improved modulation system

• Increased Modulation Sources:
  Up to 10 LFOs and 4 envelopes, each with enhanced drawing tools and editing capabilities.​
• Chaos LFO Modes:
  New Lorenz and Rossler chaos modes introduce complex modulation possibilities.
• Advanced Modulation Matrix:
  Features like editable source and auxiliary curves, dynamic visualizations, and drag-and-drop reordering streamline modulation management.​

New sequencing tools

• Clip Sequencer:
  A flexible clip sequencer with a piano roll editor, automation lanes, and MIDI output capabilities.
• Arpeggiator:
  A sophisticated arpeggiator module with advanced pattern editing options.​

User interface enhancements

• Enhanced Browser:
  A feature-rich preset browser with play buttons for easy previewing. ​
• Mixer Module:
  A new mixer section for blending and balancing sound sources and effect busses.​
• Comprehensive Undo/Redo:
  Full undo and redo functionality ensures a non-destructive workflow.​

These enhancements make Serum 2 a powerhouse synthesizer, catering to both intricate sound design and straightforward music production needs.

Not a sound designer?
If you’re not really a sound designer (and just a “preset guy”) or you’re not too familar with Serum, you probably only understood like 20% of everything we listed above.
If that’s you, here’s what you need to know: Serum 2 is insane, and you’ll notice an incredible jump in quality just by going through the new factory presets!

New Presets for Serum 2

If you’ve just upgraded to Serum 2 or are planning to, you’re probably looking for some fresh sounds to explore its new capabilities. At Stickz, we’ve been creating top-tier presets for Serum for years, and we’ve built a massive collection of high-quality sounds.

Free Serum Presets

Want to test the waters? Grab some free Serum presets from our collection: Free Serum Presets

Premium Serum Presets

If you’re serious about making music and want the absolute best presets, check out our premium sound banks: Premium Serum Presets

Good to know: Even though all of our current presets were designed for Serum 1, they are 100% compatible with Serum 2 thanks to its seamless backward compatibility.

Conclusion

Serum 1 has been one of the most popular and widely used synths for years, and Serum 2 is set to take that legacy to the next level.

If you already own Serum 1, upgrading is an absolute no-brainer—it’s free, and you’re only gaining new tools and features without losing anything.

And if you don’t own Serum yet, now is the perfect time to jump in. With its new advanced oscillators, enhanced modulation system, and powerful new sequencing tools, Serum 2 is shaping up to be one of the most versatile synths ever made.

Pretty much a must in every producers plugin arsenal.