What is Omnisphere?
Omnisphere is an award-winning, remarkably versatile multi-timbral Power Synthesizer, based on Spectrasonics latest synthesis and hi-definition sampling engine called STEAM. It features a massive 40+GB core library, extensive synthesis capabilities, a fully featured arpeggiator with a unique Groove-Lock system for syncing with Stylus RMX grooves, over thirty built-in effects and much, much more!

What is the STEAM engine?
STEAM is the latest in-house core technology from Spectrasonics - that is the foundation of Omnisphere as well as a whole new generation of Spectrasonics instruments like Trilian!

What's the difference between Atmosphere and Omnisphere?
Virtually everything!

Omnisphere is a completely new synthesizer and the first instrument to utilize our state-of-the-art STEAM Engine. In addition to sample-based synthesis, the STEAM Engine can create entire categories of cutting-edge new sounds with its many realtime synthesis technologies. The core library in Omnisphere is gigantic - ten times the size of Atmosphere!

Does Omnisphere replace Atmosphere?
Yes, Omnisphere is Atmosphere's successor.

What kinds of sounds does Omnisphere produce?
Good ones. :-)
Omnisphere is incredibly versatile and produces a vast range of sounds, from the organic to the electronic. Its primary focus is on producing unique new sounds, but it works equally well as a "go-to" instrument for any production approach - from the most experimental to the most traditional.

What is a "Psychoacoustic" soundsource?
"Psychoacoustic" sampling is a new concept that we've been developing at Spectrasonics for a long time. The idea is to use sampling technology to create unique sounds in a totally organic way, instead of the standard approach of using sampling to emulate traditional instruments. Our goal is to capture the "sound within the sound" of an acoustic source by performing and recording it in unique and creative ways - even going as far as building crazy acoustic instruments from scratch! When Psychoacoustic soundsources interact with the powerful STEAM engine, the result is Organic Synthesis!

Does Omnisphere include any traditional sounds?
Yes! Although the focus of Omnisphere is on cutting-edge timbres, there are many outstanding traditional sounds in Omnisphere. There are beautiful Orchestral String Ensembles, the largest selection of different choirs and human voices, Celeste, Churchbells, Glass Armonicas, highly expressive Guitars and much more.

Hmmm...Is Omnisphere a "real" synthesizer or just a "rompler"?
Omnisphere is no rompler! It is a powerhouse synthesizer that competes with the finest hardware and software synths at any level. Omnisphere indeed has "real" DSP oscillators that allow Hard Sync, FM PWM, Waveshaping and much more. Its STEAM Engine• also excels at high definition sample streaming - the realtime manipulation features like Granular Synthesis, Harmonia, Timbre Shifting and Polyphonic Ring Modulation can also be applied to the sample oscillators.

It's really the best of both worlds!

Is Omnisphere a workstation synth?
The mission of Omnisphere is all about the creation and manipulation of dynamic new sounds that have never been heard before. However, it's very broad in its sonic scope and will appeal to users all across the musical spectrum. You can think of it more like an "Exploration-station". :-)

How large is the core library?
The Omnisphere core library is ten times the size of Atmosphere - over 40 gigabytes! There are currently almost 7,000 different sounds to work with - soundsources, patches and multis - with more being added all the time.

Does it contain all the sounds of the original Atmosphere?
Yes! All the original core library samples and enhanced versions of all the classic Atmosphere patches are included in the current version of Omnisphere.

How have the Atmosphere sounds been "enhanced"?
The original Patches of Atmosphere have been painstakingly recreated, but we've also enhanced them with the advanced modulation and effects capabilities of the STEAM engine.

I've heard that some of the original Spectrasonics sample libraries are included with Omnisphere?
Yes! As a bonus, we've included the 'best of' our award-winning sample libraries, including Symphony Of Voices, Distorted Reality, Vocal Planet, Hans Zimmer Guitars and many others - please refer to the Reference Guide for a complete list. Keep in mind that the material used from the Sample Libraries are the most playable ones. Phrases and loops were excluded from the Omnisphere core library.

How much of the Core Library is from the original sample libraries?
A very small percentage. The vast majority of the 42+ gigabytes s brand new. And of course, all the patches are brand new and have never been presented before.

Is it possible to import my own samples into Omnisphere?
Not initially. While the first release of Omnisphere does not support user import of samples, we understand how cool that would be and certainly wouldn't rule that out for the future.
Most importantly, the concept of Omnisphere is completely different than a typical sampler. Omnisphere is an incredibly deep synthesizer with a massive Core Library that will take a lifetime to explore.

How fast of a computer will I need to run Omnisphere?
As with all virtual instruments - the faster the better. Omnisphere is designed to run optimally on modern computers. See the System Requirements for more information.

Is there an upgrade for Atmosphere users?
Yes! All registered Atmosphere customers can now upgrade to Omnisphere through the Spectrasonics Techshop.

Is Atmosphere currently still available?
No. Omnisphere has now replaced Atmosphere.

Is Omnisphere expandable?
Yes! We have many plans to extend Omnisphere in lots of different ways in the future.

In fact, you can use Trilian to expand Omnisphere, since it features Omnisphere Core Library integration!

Is Omnisphere native Universal Binary for Intel Macs?
Absolutely. The STEAM Engine• is Universal Binary, just like Stylus RMX.

Is Omnisphere 64 bit?
Yes, currently on Windows Omnisphere is 64-bit native. We are currently working on the 64-bit native OSX version of Omnisphere....stay tuned.

Does Omnisphere use disc-streaming?
Yes! Omnisphere streams from the disc for quick previewing of the sounds. Disc streaming is configurable as well.

Is there a DEMO version of Omnisphere I can try?
Because of the size of our instruments, we don't offer Demo versions.

However, you can contact one of our local dealers in your area in order to arrange a live demo of Omnisphere. To find a local dealer in your area, please contact your local Spectrasonics distributor

Will there be some audio demos of Omnisphere on the website?
At some point, yes. Omnisphere is very diverse and we are working on a comprehensive page of Audio demos to post simultaneously. For now, you can hear some of the Omnisphere sounds in the video episodes and there are many user Omnisphere audio demos being posted around various forums.

You can also check Omnisphere out in person at any authorized Spectrasonics dealer.

Are there Omnisphere video tutorials like there are for RMX?
Yes! Just like with Stylus RMX, hours of Video Tutorials taught by the Spectrasonics Team are a major part of the learning experience of Omnisphere. The first batch of Omnisphere video tutorials is now available and there are more in progress. We have also made these tutorials available for all registered Spectrasonics users to view and download HERE.

Will there be any more video demos of Omnisphere for the public?
Yes! We are regularly producing demonstration videos of Omnisphere's capabilities and features for the general public to check out.

Can I download the upgrade?
No. Since the library is over 40 gigs, it will not be available as a download.

Does Omnisphere also include Trilogy?
No. Trilian is the STEAM-based future for Trilogy. An interesting feature of Omnisphere is that it can use Trilian's sounds directly for expansion and further manipulation.

Does Omnisphere have the same FX as RMX? Are there any new FX?
Yes, it contains all the same Effects as Stylus RMX plus several new ones!

What are the multi-point envelopes like in Omnisphere compared to other synths?
Multipoint envelopes have always been extraordinarily useful in synths. However, they've traditionally been rather tedious to program. Our goal with the envelopes in Omnisphere was to offer the expressive power of multipoint envelopes while making them easy, and even fun, to work with! You even can do cool things with them without getting into the details of patch programming. There are many simple and flexible ways to get sophisticated envelope shapes in Omnisphere!

Does Omnisphere include a written manual or pdf?
All our instruments include a comprehensive Reference Guide, which is accessible directly through the plug-in. The integrated Reference Guide is searchable and we can keep it up to date with the software releases. And of course hours of free Omnisphere video tutorials are provided free to registered users on our site.

Can I use Omnisphere on my G4? What kind of performance can I expect? Could I at least run Omnisphere in a minimal mode and bounce to audio?
We are recommending using Omnisphere on more up to date computers, and although you may be able to open Omnisphere on a G4, the performance would be quite limited and not very satisfying.

Can I selectively install parts of the Omnisphere library since it is so large?
Because of patch compatibility, Omnisphere must always be installed with the complete library. However, you can install the 42 gig library to a secondary or external drive if you wish.

Will Omnisphere's streaming benefit from a faster hard drive?
Fast drives are a smart way to go of course. There's a chapter in the Reference Guide devoted to optimizing Performance with Omnisphere.

Can I run Omnisphere side by side with Atmosphere?
Omnisphere and Atmosphere can be run side by side, since they are separate instruments. Keep in mind that Omnisphere is a completely new synthesizer that also includes the Atmosphere library.

Do I need to uninstall Atmosphere before installing Omnisphere?
No, this isn't necessary unless you are no longer going to use Atmosphere.

All of Atmosphere is included in Omnisphere, so you can uninstall if you like. However, it's useful to keep Atmosphere installed to recall older projects.

Will I still be able to open my old sessions using Omnisphere? Will Omnisphere load Atmosphere patches? Will it replace Atmosphere on those sessions with all of their settings automatically?
Omnisphere will not automatically replace Atmosphere in older sessions. You can reselect the same Atmosphere patches in Omnisphere, since it includes the original Atmosphere library and patches.

Will I be able to open custom patches that I made in Atmosphere?
No. Since Omnisphere is a completely new instrument, it's not possible to open custom saved Atmosphere patches in Omnisphere.

However, you will be able to recreate your custom patches with much more choice and flexibility, and also trade and share patches with other users! This is possible because Omnisphere is based on our own technology, and will allow for song compatibility with future updates, just like all the updates with RMX have been song compatible since it's introduction.

Where do I order the upgrade from? Can I get the upgrade through my local dealer?
Upgrades are available exclusively through the Spectrasonics Techshop.

Do I need to have Atmosphere installed before purchasing the upgrade to Omnipshere?
No, but you will need to have authorized and registered Atmosphere.

Can I install Omnisphere on a different drive?
Yes, you can definitely install the library to a secondary or external drive.

Can I order Omnisphere directly from Spectrasonics?
No. Unless you are upgrading from Atmosphere, you will need to purchase Omnisphere through an authorized Spectrasonics dealer. To find a dealer in your area, please contact one of our distributors.

Can I upgrade if I bought a used copy of Atmosphere?
Only if that copy of Atmosphere has been properly license transfered through Spectrasonics. We always recommend purchasing our instruments from an authorized dealer, since special upgrade discount offers are provided exclusively to original users.

Will Omnisphere run on the Muse Receptor?
Yes. Contact MUSE for instructions.

Is there a student discount price for Omnisphere?
Spectrasonics doesn't offer student discounts, however qualifying school's and institutions can participate in our EDU program.

Is it compatible with Mac OSX Snow Leopard and Microsoft Windows 7?
Yes, Omnisphere is compatible with both Windows 7 and OSX 10.6 Snow Leopard.

What's the principle of the standard license agreement?
• Single user music production/performance = Allowed
• Multiple users = Not Allowed
• Non-music use = Not Allowed

Any uses that are not allowed need additional permission or a special license from Spectrasonics.

Are there any legal limitations to how I can use Omnisphere?
The main limitation is that you are not allowed to use it to make a sample library or another kind of sample-based product. You are also restricted from giving away or posting online any loops or samples created using Omnisphere. However, you are able to use Omnisphere in all musical recording applications without paying any additional licenses.

Does Omniphere use copy protection?
Yes, we have our own system. Once you've installed and opened the plug-in, you'll have 4 day grace period to use the product without authorization in demo mode. To continue using the instrument on that computer, you'll need to authorize the plug-in on our web site. It's fast and easy, and you'll get your Response code for your computer immediately. You don't have to use your music computer to do the web authorization.

What type of Copy Protection method does Omnisphere use?
All Spectrasonics products use a custom developed Challenge/ Response system. This system allows you to install and authorize 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. With our system, you aren't limiting to using it on one computer. Our system is more flexible than dongle-based ones, because it's: Single User/Multiple Computer

Does Omnisphere use a dongle?
No.

How many computers can I install it on?
Since all Spectrasonics instruments have a Single User/ Multiple Computer license, this means you can install and use Omnisphere on as many computers that you own and will be using yourself.

What if I need more than one install for laptop use, if my hard drive crashes or if I get a new computer?
Not a problem...our web site is available around the clock to handle these situations immediately. It's very easy to do it online and you'll always be able to get the authorizations that you need for your computers from Spectrasonics.

Can I use my Spectrasonics Instruments on more than one computer at a time?
Yes. This is no problem as long as it's for a single user.

I'm concerned about what would happen to my Spectrasonics instruments if the company were to go out of business...would I be still be able to authorize them?
Absolutely! At Spectrasonics, we believe it is essential to guarantee to our users the ability to get lifetime authorizations for the Spectrasonics instruments they purchased. In the unlikely event that the company were to go out of business, we would provide the ability for all registered users to get continued authorizations. In fact, we already have a system in place for this contingency. However, the good news is that this event is highly unlikely...we plan to be around for many years!

Do I have to credit Spectrasonics if I use Omnisphere?
No, it isn't mandatory for our instruments...but we certainly would appreciate it!

Do I need to obtain a special license to use Omnisphere on a commercial project?
No, the lifetime license fee to use the samples is covered in the purchase price of the instrument. You can use it on as many of your own projects as you like and we hope that you make some hits with it!

Can I use Omnisphere on Music Libraries?
Yes, this is fine. Some companies completely restrict this kind of use altogether - since music libraries can sometimes cross over into the soundware business, but Spectrasonics allows music library use. In fact, we have many customers that use our products in standard music libraries. Specific limitations about music library collection usage of include the following:
•The music in the library must be in a mixed format. You cannot provide separate tracks in your music library if you want to use our products with our standard license.
•The intended audience for your music library collection must be to non-musicians.

Can I use Omnisphere in Film Trailers?
Yes, this type of use is fine. Some companies restrict this kind of use, but Spectrasonics allows it.

Can I use Omnisphere in multimedia/game music projects?
Yes, this is OK unless you want to put samples created with Spectrasonics Virtual Instruments directly encoded into the game. That requires a special license. Remember, music use is allowed, but non-music use (example: SFX) is not permitted without a special license for this type of use. Please contact Spectrasonics if you wish to encode the samples into a game system.

Can I distribute the music I've created with Spectrasonics products in a "multitrack" format?
One of the only things that is NOT allowed is distributing your music in a multitrack format that completely exposes tracks created using our samples.

The problem in this case is that the separate tracks can then easily be reused in new works by the end user of the music - who is not a licensed Spectrasonics user. This use then turns into a type of redistribution of our copyrighted samples as a "derivative work", which is not allowed without special permission or a special license from Spectrasonics.

NOTE: "Multi-channel" mixed music is not a problem (5.1, 7.1 mixes, etc.).

What if the Spectrasonics elements in my music are exposed for a period of time?
We aren't concerned about normal music use, where the music is presented in the standard "mixed" format. Of course our sounds may sometimes appear in exposed passages like intros and breaks within a song's mix and this is considered normal usage.

Can I use Spectrasonics Instruments or libraries to create loops or samples for distribution if I'm layering them with other sounds or doing a lot of creative processing?
No. At least not without getting special permission or an additional license from Spectrasonics. Legally, this is considered a "derivative work" when our copyrighted sound recordings are involved in the creation of new samples or loops.

What if it's just for my own use and I don't distribute the samples I've created?
If you're a licensed user, you are welcome to use your Spectrasonics instruments and libraries to create new audio samples and loops for your own use. The important thing is not to distribute them.

I work at a production music studio with several other composers/producers. Can we all use Omnisphere from our main server?
No. It's very important that each composer must have his or her own copy and license for Omnisphere. We make regular checks to verify that large production studios have obtained the proper licenses for our instruments and sample libraries.

As a studio owner, can I include Omnisphere on a rental or studio computer for clients to use on their projects?
No. The standard license to use Omnisphere is only granted to the buyer. We have a "single user/multiple computer" lifetime license policy. If it is your own recording project that you are producing, of course that isn't a problem...but your studio clients aren't licensed to use it for their own projects, and Omnisphere use can't be "rented". Multiple license packages are available by contacting your Spectrasonics distributor. If you have questions regarding multi-license packages contact info@spectrasonics.net

Does this mean that I can't use Omnisphere when working on someone else's project?
This type of use is very standard and not a problem at all. The "single user" is defined as the person who is licensed to use the software instrument. This means that the licensed user can use it on an unlimited number of musical projects they are involved in. This can be a person's own project, a project where they are acting as a producer or engineer for another artist, as a session musician performing on someone else's project live or in the studio, etc. The main point of our license agreement is the concept of a single licensed user. If a licensed Omnisphere user is not musically involved in a project, that is where there is a restriction - hence the inability to simply rent the instrument or rent "time" to use the instrument as part of a studio's services. Most of our customers use their Spectrasonics instruments on many different kinds of musical projects for different artists and collaborations.

Can my writing partner use a copy of my instrument on their computer?
No...the license to use Omnisphere is on a per-person (single user) basis. They would need their own copy of Omnisphere to use it on their computer.

Can I install my Omnisphere on a client's computer for their use?
Not unless they are a licensed user. They will need their own serial number and registration to be licensed to use the instrument.

I've never heard of these kinds of licensing restrictions before. This seems unusual and totally different from using hardware sound modules. Why does Spectrasonics have such an unusual policy?
It's not actually unusual at all or even unique to Spectrasonics. In fact, this is the identical type of license agreement used by thousands of media libraries, virtually all sample-based virtual instruments and the vast majority of music software. Single user license agreements do have different restrictions compared to using hardware devices, and many people are not aware of these types of differences and restrictions. Part of the purpose of this FAQ section is to serve as a clear explanation of our policies. In this case, these types of "single user" license restrictions are standard for nearly all software/soundware companies, not only Spectrasonics.

Can I resell Omnisphere used to someone else?
Not without obtaining a license transfer from Spectrasonics. The sounds and software are licensed and registered ONLY to you. You cannot automatically transfer the license to someone else, and therefore you cannot simply sell it used. If you do attempt to sell it used without obtaining a license transfer, the buyer will not be able to use the product because it is registered and licensed to you. The Omnisphere license is the right given to a single person to use the instrument. When you purchase the product, you are primarily purchasing the lifetime right to use the product and the sounds it contains in your own music projects. Also, if you sell any of your computers that have a Spectrasonics instruments installed on them, you are required to delete them first from the hard drive.

How would I obtain a license transfer and how much does it cost?
The vast majority of sample libraries and sample-based virtual instruments on the market do not allow license transfers of any kind. However, at Spectrasonics we realize that there are certain circumstances where it can be a legitimate transaction. Because circumstances can vary so much, we only grant license transfers on a case-by-case basis.

Depending on the circumstances, when a license transfer is granted, there is often an additional fee involved that covers the transfer of all the rights to the new user to use the core library sounds, to receive full tech support and continuing support update rights, issuing a new serial number and account, etc. License transferred versions of this software do not have the same upgrade "special pricing" privileges as standard new units purchased at an authorized Spectrasonics dealer. If you have more questions about obtaining license transfers, how much it costs and what the limitations are of license transferred versions, please contact us directly at info@spectrasonics.net

Do license transferred (used) versions get access to software updates and upgrades?
Yes, but not necessarily the same special "upgrade" pricing offers.

Can a license transferred (used) version be resold and transferred again?
No. This can only be done once by the original purchaser.

What are the privileges of a Licensed User that purchased Omnisphere from an authorized Spectrasonics dealer?
• Lifetime, unlimited use of the purchased version of the instrument and the sounds it contains to use for music projects.
• Free phone, email and online Technical Support
• Free software maintenance updates
• Special upgrade pricing on major new versions

Am I allowed to distribute samples I've made of any of Omnisphere's Factory sound libraries?
No. The factory core sound libraries of Omnisphere are copyrighted and may not be distributed. This includes all types of distribution - the use in other sample libraries, sound FX libraries or sample-based hardware or software products is specifically prohibited.

What if I extensively modify the Omnisphere factory sounds?
All modification, layering and tweaking is still legally considered a "derivative work" based on copyrighted recordings, so any type of re-use sample distribution like this would require specific clearance in advance.

Does this mean that I'm not allowed to distribute my own original Omnisphere patches or multis?
That's not a problem. Any type of distribution of user Omnisphere patches and multis (.prt &.mlt files) is not only allowed, it's encouraged! :-)

Am I allowed to distribute samples of my own original Omnisphere patches?
Your own original Omnisphere patches are very likely to be based on our copyrighted material, so the answer would be NO in those cases. Contact us if you have questions.

Can I sample Omnisphere for my own private use?
Of course. Every licensed user is free to use Omnisphere's sounds in any way within the production of their music that works for them creatively...including making their own custom samples with the instrument. Those custom samples only become a legal issue when they go beyond the private musical use of the individual user (i.e. distribution).

Am I permitted to distribute my Omnisphere samples if it's non-commercial?
No. There's no distinction between commercial or non-commercial distribution. Posting/sharing original samples of Omnisphere presents the same legal issues as commercial distribution.

But if Spectrasonics sampled other manufacturers' instruments to make Omnisphere, then why can't I use Omnisphere for my sampling project? This seems inconsistent.
For Omnisphere's core library, Spectrasonics researched and obtained all necessary legal clearance to use all the original samples we created that incorporate other manufacturers' instruments.

Please contact Spectrasonics directly if you have any questions regarding sampling Omnisphere®: info@spectrasonics.net