Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $169

Standard/Professional

$79

$200+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Arturia SQ80 V". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Step into the world of digital synthesis with the Arturia SQ80 V, a virtual instrument that reimagines Ensoniq’s iconic '80s Cross-Wave synthesizer. This software plugin captures the essence of vintage digital sound, offering an array of hybrid lo-fi textures and waveform combinations that defy convention. The SQ80 V is not just a digital revival but a dynamic toolkit for modern music production, combining 8-bit digital oscillators with an emulated Curtis CEM 3379 analog filter to deliver rich, organic tones.

The SQ80 V stands out by blending the precision of digital synthesis with the warmth and character typically associated with analog systems. Its interface is as intuitive as it is powerful, featuring a streamlined control panel that makes it easy to dive into sound design. Whether you’re crafting silky pads or gritty basses, the SQ80 V’s extensive waveform library and modulation capabilities provide endless possibilities.

Designed for both clarity and complexity, the SQ80 V is equipped with features like amplitude modulation, hard sync, and a versatile arpeggiator. It's not just about replicating the past; Arturia has enriched this classic with modern enhancements, including expanded envelope modes and MPE compatibility for expressive performances.

Embrace the legacy of Ensoniq and push the boundaries of sound with the Arturia SQ80 V—a digital instrument that’s as edgy as it is accessible, offering a unique sonic palette for every musician.

Key Features:

  • 3 digital oscillators based on the original DOC chip
  • Over 400 waveforms across 4 unique banks
  • Amplitude Modulation and Hard Sync
  • Analog resonant low-pass filter based on the original CEM chip
  • 4 polyphonic envelope generators with 3 modes: SQ80, DADSR, MSEG
  • 3 LFOs with 6 waveforms
  • Modulation mixer for combining 2 modulation sources
  • Built-in 7-mode arpeggiator
  • Up to 16-voice polyphony with Unison mode
  • MPE compatibility for advanced expressivity
  • 200+ factory presets, including 40 from the original SQ-80 instrument

Owner's manual

Arturia SQ80 V User Manual

Product specs

Software Type Digital Synth Virtual Instrument
Platform Mac, PC
Upgrade/Full Full
Download/Boxed Download
Bit Depth 64-bit
Plug-in Formats Standalone, AAX, AU, VST
Additional Compatibility NKS
Hardware Requirements - Mac 2.5GHz CPU or higher, 4GB RAM minimum
Hardware Requirements - PC 2.5GHz CPU or higher, 4GB RAM minimum
OS Requirements - Mac macOS 10.13 or later
OS Requirements - PC Windows 8.1 or later

FAQs

What are the standout features of the Arturia SQ80 V's sound engine?

The Arturia SQ80 V features three digital oscillators based on the original DOC chip, over 400 waveforms, and an analog resonant low-pass filter. It also includes four polyphonic envelope generators and three LFOs, providing a rich and versatile sound design palette.

Is the Arturia SQ80 V compatible with my DAW?

The Arturia SQ80 V is compatible with major DAWs, supporting plug-in formats such as AAX, AU, and VST. It also offers standalone functionality and NKS compatibility for seamless integration into your production setup.

Can the Arturia SQ80 V be used for polyphonic synthesis?

Yes, the Arturia SQ80 V offers up to 16-voice polyphony, complete with a Unison mode, allowing for complex and lush polyphonic textures in your compositions.

What are the system requirements for installing Arturia SQ80 V?

For Mac, you'll need macOS 10.13 or later with a 2.5GHz CPU and at least 4GB RAM. For PC, Windows 8.1 or later is required, with the same CPU and RAM specifications.

Does the Arturia SQ80 V include any built-in effects?

The Arturia SQ80 V includes four FX slots across two busses, which can be configured in series or parallel. It offers 15 master effect types, providing extensive sound-shaping capabilities.

Arturia

Arturia

SQ80 V | Software Instruments | ARTURIA

Video thumbnail for SQ80 V | Software Instruments | ARTURIA by Arturia

SQ80 V | Software Instruments | ARTURIA

Arturia

Arturia

Video thumbnail for Tutorials | SQ80 V - Overview by Arturia

Tutorials | SQ80 V - Overview

Arturia

Arturia

Video thumbnail for Arturia SQ80 V - SonicLAB Review by sonicstate

Arturia SQ80 V - SonicLAB Review

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for ARTURIA SQ80 V // full review, demo and walkthrough by Starsky Carr

ARTURIA SQ80 V // full review, demo and walkthrough

Starsky Carr

Starsky Carr

Video thumbnail for Arturia SQ80 V | No Talking | by DKS SYNTH LAB

Arturia SQ80 V | No Talking |

DKS SYNTH LAB

DKS SYNTH LAB

Video thumbnail for Arturia SQ80 V Demo & Review by musictrackjp

Arturia SQ80 V Demo & Review

musictrackjp

musictrackjp

Video thumbnail for SUPERBOOTH 2021 - Arturia - SQ80 V by sonicstate

SUPERBOOTH 2021 - Arturia - SQ80 V

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for ARTURIA SQ80 V vs ENSONIQ SQ-80 (1987) Vintage Analog Hybrid Synthesizer Shootout by Vulture Culture

ARTURIA SQ80 V vs ENSONIQ SQ-80 (1987) Vintage Analog Hybrid Synthesizer Shootout

Vulture Culture

Vulture Culture

Video thumbnail for Arturia SQ80 V: A Detailed Demo and Tutorial by CatSynth TV

Arturia SQ80 V: A Detailed Demo and Tutorial

CatSynth TV

CatSynth TV

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Arturia SQ80 V.

Comparisons

  • SQ8L is noted to sound closer to the real Ensoniq SQ80, particularly in resonance and attack characteristics, than the Arturia SQ80 V.

    Source
  • Long-term SQ80 users find SQ8L offers the most precise emulation of the original hardware, especially in terms of patch import fidelity.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Arturia SQ80 V reportedly lacks the resonance sparkle and exhibits a harder, dryer sound compared to the original SQ80.

    Source
  • The SQ8L plug-in is praised for minimal CPU usage compared to the Arturia SQ80V, making it more efficient for resource-heavy projects.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • SQ8L can be automatically bridged in Reaper for use with modern DAWs, while other DAWs may require additional bridging software.

    Source
  • Users report issues with incorrect patch settings during SYSEX import, particularly with AM modulation and DCA settings, affecting sound accuracy in the SQ80V.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The attack of the Arturia SQ80 V feels different from the real SQ80, which might affect its suitability for certain sound profiles.

    Source

User experience

  • Experienced users note that filter openness differs between the hardware SQ80 and Arturia's SQ80V, impacting the sound character directly.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Arturia SQ80 V review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Arturia's SQ80 V channels vintage grit with modern flair, delivering an engaging experience for fans of 80s synths. The rich sound design and extended modulation options breathe life into classic aesthetics, helping it find relevance today. However, early digital limitations are apparent, with small modulation dials that can hinder creativity. While some patches may feel kitschy, the unique arpeggiator and effects section offer fresh possibilities. In short, this emulation captures nostalgia while showcasing enough depth to appeal to contemporary musicians, making it a worthwhile addition to any setup.

positive

Arturia SQ80 V review: a fantastically weird hybrid synth respectfully resurrected

musictech.com

Arturia's SQ80 V successfully captures the gritty essence of the original Ensoniq SQ-80 while expanding its sonic palette with a plethora of wave shapes and modulation options. Its unique hybrid design offers a distinct character that many will find appealing, especially for creating atmospheric and evolving sounds. However, the lack of a spread voice panning option in unison mode and a somewhat cumbersome modulation interface detracts from its overall usability. Despite these drawbacks, the plug-in's robust sound design capabilities and added effects make it a worthy addition to any producer's toolkit, particularly for those nostalgic for 80s synths.

positive

Arturia SQ80 V First Look Review: A modern salute to 8-bit Ensoniq grit - gearnews.com

gearnews.com

Arturia's SQ80 V pays homage to the gritty charm of the 8-bit era, delivering a robust emulation of the classic Ensoniq SQ-80. With thoughtful upgrades like 16-voice polyphony and customizable envelope modes, it offers modern sound design versatility while maintaining its lo-fi essence. The interface is user-friendly, allowing for quick tweaks across its three views. However, its unique sound may not appeal to everyone—embracing its crunchiness is key to enjoying this synth. Overall, it’s a worthy addition for those drawn to vintage sounds, but it might not suit every taste.

positive

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Steve Levine uses Arturia SQ80 V

Steve Levine

Composer, Music Producer

Culture Club

...
Verified via Arturia

Steve Levine uses Arturia SQ80 V according to the Arturia website.

See how Sweet Valley uses Arturia SQ80 V

Sweet Valley

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

The electronic music duo Sweet Valley utilizes the Arturia SQ80 V virtual instrument in their production process, as evidenced by an Instagram post from their official account, sweetvalleysucks. The post includes a photo that displays a screenshot of Ableton Live with the SQ80 V visible in their project tracks, confirming its use in crafting new demos and videos. This information is corroborated by the caption of the post, which mentions updates on new demos and videos available on their Patreon, dated April 21, 2023.

See how So Wylie uses Arturia SQ80 V

So Wylie

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "4 Producers: my FULL music production process!" by So Wylie, at the timestamp 3:53, So Wylie is visibly seen utilizing the Arturia SQ80 V to incorporate a bassline into the track.

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 Arturia SQ80 V, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

1 alternative for Arturia SQ80 V, curated by the Equipboard community.

SQ8L by Siegfried Kullmann

 

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound cheaper alternative

SQ8L is a free, great sounding plugin and can read original soundbanks (unfortunately it's still 32-bit and no longer maintained).

More Arturia Synth Plugins

Arturia ARP2600 V

$119.00 - $149.00

# 20

Rank

Christopher Franke Tosca Hard Rock Sofa
6 artists using
Arturia Jun-6 V

$149.00 - $199.00

# 67

Rank

Kostas Maskalides Nosaj Thing Bad Snacks
6 artists using
Arturia Mini V3

$105.00 - $3,421.95

 
Shimron Elit So Wylie
2 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    ro5
    ro5

    Gear IQ 3582