Cakewalk Z3TA+ 2 Software Synth

4.5 (53)

1 Critic Review

11 Reviews

Find out who is using Cakewalk Z3TA+ 2

3 wishlisted

86 saved

Page last updated Feb 07, 2026

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Description

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Dive into the world of limitless sound design with the Cakewalk Z3TA+ 2 Software Synth. This virtual synthesizer is a powerhouse for both seasoned sound designers and those new to the world of synthesis. With its 1,500 meticulously crafted presets, the Z3TA+ 2 offers an extensive palette of sounds right out of the box, ranging from punchy leads and resonant basses to ethereal pads and cinematic soundscapes.

For those who love to craft their own sonic landscapes, the Z3TA+ 2 doesn't disappoint. Its deep waveshaping capabilities allow you to transform basic waveforms into rich, textured sounds. The synth's morphable LFOs provide complex modulation possibilities, letting you add dynamic expressiveness to your music. Whether you're looking to create a unique lead or an evolving atmospheric pad, this plugin's intuitive interface makes sound design an exciting and rewarding process.

The Z3TA+ 2 also features a graphical arpeggiator with over 100 patterns, ensuring that your compositions are always dynamic and engaging. With 14 filter types, drag 'n' drop effects routing, and a flexible modulation matrix, the creative possibilities are truly endless.

Key Features:

Synthesizer plug-in compatible with Mac/PC - VST, AU
1,500 presets for immediate access to diverse sounds
14 filter types with flexible routing options
Morphable LFOs for advanced sound modulation
16 waveshapers to create textured sounds
Graphical arpeggiator with over 100 patterns
Integrated effects section with simple drag 'n' drop routing

Videos

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Vario-Productions

Zetaficated - Cakewalk Z3TA+2 Demonstration

Vario-Productions

Cakewalk Z3TA+2 Masterclass Webinar

Scan Pro Audio

Cakewalk Z3ta+ 2 Ping Delay example (using the Misa Kitara)

misadigital

Cakewalk Z3TA+2 Tutorial 01 - Intro & UI

SadowickProduction

Cakewalk Z3TA+2 Virtual Synth Basic Patch Creation - Overview

Plugin Boutique

Cakewalk Z3TA+2 Tutorial 02 - Oscillators & Waveshaping

SadowickProduction

Cakewalk Z3TA+2 Demo - Sweetwater's iOS Update, Vol. 74

Sweetwater

Cakewalk Z3TA+ 2 Software-Synthesizer im Test auf musikmachen.de

musikmachen.de

Reviews

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PROS

Full-sounding synth with 6 oscillators and extensive wave shaping
Modulation table allows flexible routing and creative sound design
Excellent for arpeggios, offers crisp lead sounds when arp is disabled
Offers a wide variety of sounds from vintage to current genres
Provides warmth of analog with outstanding filter quality
Great value, especially during Steam sales with significant discounts
Straightforward and easy to use, even with basic controllers
Unique synths that complement other VSTs
Powerful waveshapers mappable in mod matrix
Exceptional pad creation capabilities

CONS

High CPU usage with multiple instances
Some users find better alternatives on the market

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Cakewalk Z3TA+ 2 Software Synth.

Comparisons

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Surge XT is regarded as the best free alternative due to its 6 oscillators and custom wavetable support, closely resembling Z3TA+2's capabilities.
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Helix is identified as the closest functional option to Z3TA+2 among paid synths, though it has only 4 oscillators and a less intuitive UI.
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Vaporizer 2 is notable for its affordability at $55, offering 4 wavetable oscillators and a built-in wavetable editor, providing distinct functionality.
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Use cases and applications

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Surge XT and Vital are highly recommended for recreating the "chords of life" 80's bass sound, essential for projects dependent on Z3TA+2.
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Features and functionality

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Vaporizer 2's wavetable editor adds unique value, allowing detailed sound customization often sought by users transitioning from Z3TA+2.
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Software and compatibility

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Z3TA+ 2 requires offline activation through BandLab Assistant for reinstallation when Cakewalk Command Center is inaccessible.
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Z3TA+ 2 is confirmed as a VSTi-only plugin, unlike its predecessor, which supported both DXi and VSTi formats.
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Setup and maintenance

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Activation involves exporting an activation request, processing it through BandLab, and importing the response in Z3TA+ 2.
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User experience

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Users report that contacting BandLab's community team can resolve download issues if a valid serial number and registration code are available.
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Critic Reviews

Cakewalk Z3TA+ 2 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Cakewalk Z3TA+ 2 is a revitalized powerhouse synth, lauded for its powerful sound and innovative features, like the adaptive pitchbend and mappable waveshapers, making it a favorite among sound designers. The interface sees significant improvement, and the extensive preset banks offer an enticing array of sounds. However, some features have been removed, and the modulation system can be complex, with a filter section that could see enhancements. While not the most intuitive for beginners, it's a robust tool for seasoned synthesists looking to explore a wide sonic landscape. Overall, it's a strong update for an already revered synth.

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Full Review

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 11 Reviews and 53 Ratings

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shu77erfly

120

over 11 years ago

One of my fav synths for trance pads and hardstyle bass

I find this VST amazing in its pad abilities.

Artist usage

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Avicii

Music Producer

Jovicii

Verified via Photo

In this image Avicii is using this plugin

Knife Party

Music Producer

Verified via Imgur

List of plugins that Rob swire uses and carries over overtime he switches PC or workstation. Also in an interview with Sound on Sound, Rob swire mentioned he uses Z3TA +2 for pendulum http://www.soundonsound.com/people/pendulum

W&W

Music Producer, DJ

Verified via Splice

Wardt of W&W states "if we want that old-school trance vibe, we go to the old synths, like Zeta, Vanguard and V-Station".

Rusko

Music Producer

Verified via Twitter

Twitter user @shmaigler asks Rusko, "#AskRusko whats your favorite VST/ AU youve recently come acroos? [sic]" (asked 23 Aug 2013)

Rusko replies, "my fave current vst or plugin is Z3TA2"

MDK

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Verified via YouTube

"Go up to the top where it says 'Channels'. Click that, go to 'Add One' and you'll notice that you have this list. Your list probably looks a lot different than mine because I have a bunch of third party software installed."

Among this list is Z3TA+ 2.

Shingo Nakamura

Music Producer, DJ

Verified via Photo

From an article, Silk Artist Spotlight :: Shingo Nakamura discusses the disaster in Japan, his upcoming album, studio equipment, and more...:

My main DAW is FL studio. I have been using it from the very beginning of making music. My main synths are Sylenth, Omnisphere, Massive, and z3ta+. Sylenth is my favorite synth because it's easy to make sounds as I imagine them.

Original article can be found here.