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Sweetwater
$99.00 $29.00 $70.00 · All time low
Thomann
4.6 (204)
$92.00 $26.00 $66.00 · All time low

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Air Music Technology - Xpand!2". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unlock a universe of sound with Xpand!2, the innovative virtual instrument from Air Music Technology. Originally part of the Avid™ Pro Tools™ toolkit, this multitimbral workstation is now available as a standalone powerhouse for musicians and producers everywhere. With its ability to combine four distinct sound slots per patch, each with unique settings, Xpand!2 offers the sonic flexibility to craft everything from lush pads to intricate solos. Its intuitive interface and robust sound design capabilities make it a go-to choice for both live performances and studio recording.

Xpand!2 boasts a diverse array of sound generation engines, utilizing wavetables, FM synthesis, and sample playback to deliver a rich palette of tones. Dive into a library of over 2500 meticulously crafted presets and parts, spanning a multitude of categories like Synth Brass, Ethnic, and Action Pads. Whether you're looking for subtle ambiance or a commanding lead, Xpand!2 has you covered.

Performance is made seamless with six smart knobs that adapt to the selected sound part, allowing for precise real-time manipulation. Engage the advanced arpeggiation and dynamic effects duo to add depth and motion to your compositions. With the ability to synchronize modulation rates to tempo and apply customized effects, your creative potential is virtually limitless.

Key Features:

  • Four-channel multitimbral operation
  • Up to four stereo instrument parts per patch
  • Polyphonic (up to 64 voices) and monophonic voice modes
  • Intuitive smart knobs for sound editing
  • Two digital effects processors with 50 editable effects
  • Individual arpeggiation control for each part
  • Multiple sound generation engines: subtractive synthesis, FM synthesis, sample playback
  • Compatible with AU and VST formats

Explore the expansive capabilities of Xpand!2 and elevate your music production to new heights.

Product specs

Available since June 2017
Single/Bundle article Los artikel
Akustik Keys/Pianos No
Beat production / Drum machines No
Wind Instruments No
Cinematic / Effects No
Chorus / Vocals No
Drums / Percussion No
E-Pianos No
Ethno / Folk No
Guitars/plucked instruments No
Loops/Construction-Kits No
Orchestra Instruments No
Organs No
String Bass No
Sampler No
String Instruments No
Synthesizer Yes
Vintage Instrument No
Hardware Controller No
Download 1

FAQs

What types of sounds can I create with AIR Music Technology Xpand!2?

Xpand!2 offers a wide array of sounds including pads, basses, leads, bells, atmospheres, and effects, making it ideal for creating diverse musical compositions across various genres.

Is AIR Music Technology Xpand!2 suitable for beginners?

Yes, Xpand!2 is user-friendly and offers a range of presets that provide an excellent starting point for beginners looking to explore different sounds and musical ideas.

Does AIR Music Technology Xpand!2 work with all DAWs?

Xpand!2 is compatible with most major DAWs that support VST, AU, or AAX plugin formats, ensuring broad integration with popular music production software.

Can I use Xpand!2 for live performances?

Yes, Xpand!2 is designed for both studio and live performance settings, offering robust sound capabilities and real-time control options.

What are the system requirements for installing Xpand!2?

Xpand!2 requires a compatible DAW and a computer with sufficient processing power to run VST, AU, or AAX plugins, ensuring smooth operation during music production.

AIR Music Tech

AIR Music Tech

AIR Music Technology Xpand!2 Overview and Walkthrough

Video thumbnail for AIR Music Technology Xpand!2 Overview and Walkthrough by AIR Music Tech

AIR Music Technology Xpand!2 Overview and Walkthrough

AIR Music Tech

AIR Music Tech

Video thumbnail for THE TRUTH ABOUT XPAND!2! IS THIS VST FOR YOU?!?!!Xpand!2 Review & Tutorial!! by - SweetScale TV -

THE TRUTH ABOUT XPAND!2! IS THIS VST FOR YOU?!?!!Xpand!2 Review & Tutorial!!

- SweetScale TV -

- SweetScale TV -

Video thumbnail for Xpand!2 • AIR Music Technology • 35 Selected Factory Presets • Xpand 2 VST • Sounds Patches • Xpand2 by SOUNDS & PRESETS

Xpand!2 • AIR Music Technology • 35 Selected Factory Presets • Xpand 2 VST • Sounds Patches • Xpand2

SOUNDS & PRESETS

SOUNDS & PRESETS

Video thumbnail for Xpand!2 Multitimbral Workstation By Air Music Technology - Show & Reveal by Plugin Boutique

Xpand!2 Multitimbral Workstation By Air Music Technology - Show & Reveal

Plugin Boutique

Plugin Boutique

Video thumbnail for AIR Music Technology XPand!2 with MPC by AIR Music Tech

AIR Music Technology XPand!2 with MPC

AIR Music Tech

AIR Music Tech

Video thumbnail for How to Use Air Xpand!2 and Why it’s Still My Favorite Virtual Instrument in Pro Tools! by Producer Dan

How to Use Air Xpand!2 and Why it’s Still My Favorite Virtual Instrument in Pro Tools!

Producer Dan

Producer Dan

Video thumbnail for XPAND! 2 Air Music Technology - PLAYING PRESET FROM ALL CATEGORIES by SoundSource

XPAND! 2 Air Music Technology - PLAYING PRESET FROM ALL CATEGORIES

SoundSource

SoundSource

Reviews

PROS

  • Low memory usage, suitable for various music genres

  • Large library with 2500+ presets and parts

  • Easy to use with clear interface

  • Compatible with multiple DAWs like Ableton, Cubase, and Pro Tools

  • Affordable, often available at a very low price

  • Stable performance, never crashes

  • Versatile, can create full tracks with it alone

  • Light on CPU, efficient for complex projects

  • Good for sound design, with many unique presets

  • Offers some impressive orchestral sounds

CONS

  • Licensing issues with iLok, problematic during hardware failures

  • Limited editability due to ROMpler design

  • Some sounds may feel outdated or cheesy

  • Certain instruments lack natural sound quality

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Air Music Technology - Xpand!2.

Comparisons

  • Compared to Nexus and Purity, Xpand!2 is described as a preset instrument with tweakable options, not allowing full sound creation like Serum.

    Source
  • Known as a "budget Omnisphere" or "poor man's Nexus," Xpand!2 is often compared favorably for its variety and affordability.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users manage to run Xpand!2 on Ableton after several attempts, indicating inconsistent performance across different DAWs on macOS.

    Source
  • Owners mention that Xpand!2 presets cannot be deeply modified, offering only basic tweaks, limiting customization compared to synthesizers like Serum.

    Source
  • The plugin is praised for being CPU-friendly, making it suitable for setups with limited processing power.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Installing on macOS requires deleting specific cache files, like ~/Library/Caches/com.apple.audiounits.cache, to resolve issues with plugin recognition.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Users found that Xpand!2’s Authorizer sometimes fails to open from its application folder, impacting the installation process.

    Source
  • The plugin allows layering of up to four instruments into one, offering a versatile range of sound combinations.

    Source
  • Xpand!2 functions as a ROMpler, using pre-recorded audio samples which are manipulated in real time, unlike synths that generate sounds from scratch.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Issues with Xpand!2 on macOS often relate to system upgrades, requiring workarounds like copying files from a previously working backup.

    Source
  • Installing Xpand!2 on macOS Catalina/Big Sur requires using iLok License Manager and specific installation steps to ensure compatibility.

    Source
  • Users report issues with updated iOS systems, such as FL Studio freezing when interacting with Xpand!2.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Despite being older, its sound set remains viable for modern trap music, showing its relevance in contemporary production.

    Source
  • Specific presets like "The Dentist" and "Warmth Pad" were used in multiple Drake songs, demonstrating its potential in professional music production.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Often found bundled with MIDI keyboards or reduced in price during sales, making it an attractive budget option for producers.

    Source
  • Xpand!2 is frequently available during sales for as low as $10, making it a highly affordable option for many producers.

    Source

Other

  • The plugin includes unique ethnic instruments and choirs that users find essential for certain musical styles.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: AIR Music Xpand!2 Workstation VST

soundsandgear.com

Xpand!2 by AIR Music Technology is a versatile VST that serves as a digital alternative to hardware workstations like the Roland Fantom. With over 2,400 presets across various genres, it offers a plethora of sounds that load instantly, keeping creativity flowing without frustrating wait times. While the presets are generally high quality, some duds exist, but the ability to layer and modulate sounds offers extensive creative potential. The main drawback is the tiny, fiddly browser menu, which could be more user-friendly. Despite this, Xpand!2 is a powerful, affordable, and intuitive tool for musicians seeking a broad sound palette.

positive
Add

4.0 out of 5

Based on 15 Reviews and 115 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
cyanidesoundwave

one of my fav

Good vst for sound design,has very presets,sunds amazing,light on cpu

reubentirimasu

Good for pads

I don't use much but it has some nice pad synths.

rais3

Holy Sh**! It Has Cool A** SYNTHS!

This is one of the best plugins I have ever bought! Buy this RIGHT NOW!

chirurgicalswaveforms

Good Vst

Lots of Preset , Quality of Sound is very cool :)

ryke
ryke

1345

Super Sounds

2500+ total presets and parts, I use Soft Pads and Bright Pads

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Noah "40" Shebib uses Air Music Technology - Xpand!2

Noah "40" Shebib

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

1:04 "Xpand! and Hybrid are my die-hards, I don't leave home without them......ever."

See how Nick Mira uses Air Music Technology - Xpand!2

Nick Mira

Music Producer

Internet Money

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "Nick Mira Tries to Make a Smooth Trap Beat from Scratch in FL Studio," Nick Mira uses the Air Music Technology Xpand!2 plugin.

See how Murda Beatz uses Air Music Technology - Xpand!2

Murda Beatz

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via ImgBB

This is a picture of Xpand 2 open in Murda's computer.

See how Honorable C.N.O.T.E. uses Air Music Technology - Xpand!2

Honorable C.N.O.T.E.

...
Verified via YouTube

This is VST is visible when C.N.O.T.E talks about how he made the beat for Trippie Redd and Travis Scott's "Dark Knight Dummo".

See how Royce David uses Air Music Technology - Xpand!2

Royce David

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via SoundCloud

Royce used the Synthetic Steeldrum preset in Ooh Lord by isaacjacuzzi.

See how Xenokrypt uses Air Music Technology - Xpand!2

Xenokrypt

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube video titled "Orchestral Symphony (Ableton Live Project Overview)" by Flash Beam Records, Xenokrypt showcases the use of Air Music Technology's Xpand!2 for creating orchestral sounds.

See how Kota Harrington uses Air Music Technology - Xpand!2

Kota Harrington

Composer

...
Verified via Facebook

Kota Harrington mentioned using Air Music Technology's Xpand!2 in a Facebook post about his music production setup, which includes Ableton, a Novation Ultranova, and a MacBook Pro.

See how Shimron Elit uses Air Music Technology - Xpand!2

Shimron Elit

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

Screenshot on Shimron Elit's official website.

See how Dylan Reavey uses Air Music Technology - Xpand!2

Dylan Reavey

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "Gear I use for producing Jazz Fusion (2026)" by Dylan Reavey, at 8:26, Dylan states that he uses the Air Music Technology - Xpand!2.

Album Usage

The Air Music Technology - Xpand!2 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Air Music Technology - Xpand!2, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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