Expressive E have just released a major firmware update that brings some interesting new features to the Osmose. Now available as a free update for all users, the version 2.3 update offers enhanced DAW control and free access to the company’s Ctrl-e software platform. 

With the latest firmware installed, the Osmose now offers the advanced DAW Control functions that were introduced in its controller-only sibling, the Osmose CE. Transport, metronome, playhead and loop-management functions are provided along with track, scene and clip navigation, and users can also access mixing and macro controls for the selected track. Additional functions such as undo, redo, quantisation and tempo control are then accessible via the Osmose Mode button, which now doubles up as a Shift key. 

The second headline feature is that all Osmose owners now get a free license for Expressive E’s Ctrl-e software, which provides access to a library of over 900 expressive presets — the content includes offerings from Expressive E themselves, along with patches from partner companies such as Kilohearts, Synapse Audio, Dawesome, Applied Acoustic Systems, GForce and Vital. 

Integration is seamless, and selecting a track in Ctrl-e will cause the Osmose to automatically switch to Ctrl-e mode and allow players to browse and filter sounds directly from their hardware. Those that own compatible Expressive Suites can also download them in Ctrl-e form and access them via the same browser. 

It’s worth noting that the free license provides access to the Ctrl-e preset library, but does not include full licenses for Noisy 2 or any of the software instruments from third-party companies. 

Video of osmose firmware update 2.3 - overview

The update also adds a new action bar that can be accessed from any menu by holding the Mode button. It provides quick access to semitone transposition, along with control over the instrument’s Pressure Glide and Expressive Arpeggiator functions. Expressive E say that they’re already hard at work on more developments for the Osmose, including new editors that will offer more in-depth tweaking of the instrument’s EaganMatrix engine. 

The latest Osmose firmware is available now from the Expressive E website. It is free to all users.

www.expressivee.com/2-osmose