Serum 2 Just Changed the Game for Synths — Here’s How I’m Using It
As someone who’s been producing for years and tested just about every synth under the sun, I don’t say this lightly:
Serum 2 is a game changer.
If you thought the original Serum was powerful, this next evolution is on a whole different level. I’ve been diving deep with it in my recent sessions, and honestly, it’s completely shifting how I design sounds, process vocals, and even approach songwriting.
Here’s a breakdown of why Serum 2 lives rent-free in my DAW (no pun intended as if you purchased Serum 1, the Serum 2 upgrade is free)… and why it might do the same for you.
🔥 Granular Synthesis in Serum? Say Less.
The addition of granular synthesis is massive.
Now, I can take any vocal or texture, throw it into Serum, and instantly warp it into something surreal. This opens up completely new sound design possibilities, especially for ambient pads, glitchy effects, or ethereal vocal chops.
Speaking of vocal chops…
🎙️ Vocal Processing is Now INSANE
With Serum 2, chopping and manipulating vocals feels like cheating. I used to rely on a whole external chain of tools to get the sound I wanted.
Now? It’s built-in.
Granular + improved FX routing + Convolution Reverb = wild textures with minimal effort.
It’s honestly never been easier to make otherworldly vocals that feel radio-ready and experimental at the same time.
🧠 You Can Literally Edit MIDI Inside Serum Now
This one blew my mind: You can edit MIDI inside Serum — no joke.
This turns Serum from a synth into a mini workstation. Whether I’m tweaking sequences, reworking arp lines, or just auditioning melodic ideas without hopping between plugins… it’s a dream for workflow.
🎛️ New FX, Better Routing = Serious Sauce
The new Bode Shifter and Convolution Reverb bring Serum into FX territory that was previously reserved for third-party plugins.
You’ve also got custom FX routing, so you can design effects chains that feel like modular synth paths — but without the chaos. It’s way more flexible than before and super intuitive once you start playing around.
➕ Extra Oscillator = Extra Fire
An additional oscillator? Yes please.
This might sound small on paper, but it unlocks way more complex sound design possibilities. Whether it’s layering gritty subs under FM leads or crafting evolving soundscapes, this added flexibility means I no longer have to bounce between Serum and Vital.
Everything I need is in one place.
⚠️ The One Downside: It’s a CPU Hog (For Now)
Okay, real talk — Serum 2 is heavy.
I’m on a pretty beefy setup, and even I’m noticing some spikes when I push the engine hard. It’s definitely demanding, especially when you start layering the new FX or go wild with granular mode.
But to be fair, it’s version 2.0, and I’m confident we’ll see performance updates in the next patches. The functionality is worth the trade-off for now.
Final Thoughts: Serum 2 Is That Plugin
If you’re a sound design nerd, vocalist, or producer looking for that one synth to rule them all, Serum 2 is a no-brainer.
It’s not just an update — it’s a reinvention.
From granular and MIDI editing to modular-style routing and stunning new FX, it’s made me rethink my entire sound design process.
Yes, it’s heavy on CPU.
But it’s heavier on possibility.
👇 Your Turn
Have you tried Serum 2 yet? What’s your favorite feature so far?
Drop a comment or DM me on Instagram — let’s geek out about this beast of a synth.
And if you’re looking to level up your production game, I help artists like you build their sound, brand, and audience.
🎯 [Book a free clarity call with me here] — let’s make your music hit different.
