discoDSP Releases Discovery Pro 9.0 with HDR Interface

Posted on 10. August 202610. August 2026 by Max Noizefield

discoDSP has released Discovery Pro 9.0, a major update to its Nord Lead-style virtual analog synthesizer. Consequently, the new version is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It runs as a plugin in AAX, VST, VST3, and Audio Unit formats. A standalone application is also included.

What is Discovery Pro?

Discovery Pro is a four-layer virtual analog synth with twelve oscillators. It offers 16 filter types, including Nord Lead Zero Delay Feedback, Moog Ladder, and Oberheim SEM models. Moreover, the synth supports full Nord Lead SysEx import and export. This lets existing patches work in both directions. It also loads SFZ, WAV, and SoundFont content into its wavetable engine. PADsynth re-synthesizes any sound into evolving pads. Additionally, the instrument provides an arpeggiator, stereo delay, panning modulation, and step effects.

Version 9.0 Highlights

Version 9.0 introduces an HDR interface. On Mac displays that support it, lit elements glow beyond the native white point. For instance, LEDs, displays, and knob rings look like real light sources. On standard displays, the interface falls back to normal range. As a result, the layout stays consistent.

Another update is the key split popup. Users can save, load, and delete splits directly from the popup. Eight ready-made presets are included, such as Bass Split, Four Way, and Split Pads. Similarly, custom splits offer more flexible control.

The voice stealing algorithm has also been reworked. It now takes free voices first, then notes that are already fading out. Unison voices are taken as a group. In addition, repeated notes keep their release tail with unison enabled.

Performance and Synthesis Tools

Discovery Pro 9 includes a JP-8080 Super 7 supersaw oscillator. The Markov chain arpeggiator uses a probability matrix. Unison is modeled on Nord Lead 2 hardware. Custom mode includes a detune and pan layout. The graphic mod envelopes are free-form and click-drawn.

MPE is supported as well. The plugin detects MPE configuration messages automatically. This includes instruments such as the ROLI Seaboard, LinnStrument, and Osmose. A TouchOSC template is also available for tablet control.

Performance is another strength. The code is hand-optimized for Apple Silicon and x86_64. Voices spread across all available CPU cores. The engine supports 8x oversampling live and 16x for offline bounce.

Update and Availability

Discovery Pro 9.0 is a free update for all 8.x customers. Users need to enter their valid 8.x serial once after updating. A one-time internet connection is required to activate the license. After that, the software works offline.

Features