Groove Synthesis Releases OS 1.9a with Unified Program Data for 3rd Wave Synthesizers
Major Firmware Update Streamlines Sample and Wavetable Management While Adding Powerful New Modulation Features
Orinda, CA, August 1, 2025 — Groove Synthesis today announced the immediate availability of OS 1.9a, a significant firmware update for all 3rd Wave 24-voice synthesizers that fundamentally simplifies how users work with samples and wavetables. The free update introduces unified program data import/export, allowing musicians to load complete presets with all associated samples and wavetables in a single file, eliminating the multi-step process previously required.
“This update represents our commitment to making the 3rd Wave not just powerful, but genuinely enjoyable to use,” said Bob Coover, co-founder of Groove Synthesis. “The unified program data feature means you can focus on making music instead of managing files. Load a preset, and everything comes with it: samples, wavetables, all mapped and ready to play.”
The OS 1.9a update arrives alongside a curated small sample library featuring dozens of presets that demonstrate the new unified format’s capabilities. These range from organic transient samples designed to blend with traditional synthesis, to expressive multi-sampled instruments that showcase the 3rd Wave’s unique ability to combine sampling with wavetable, analog, and FM synthesis in a single patch.
Key enhancements in OS 1.9a include sample start modulation, a feature requested by artists including Orbital’s Paul Hartnoll, allowing velocity and other sources to dynamically shift sample playback points for expressive performance control. The new MONO LFO reset mode keeps all voice LFOs synchronized for cohesive modulation effects, while support for MIDI expression and breath controllers opens new dimensions of real-time control. Watch Bob Coover’s walkthrough of the latest improvements in the video below.
“What excites me most about this update is how it removes barriers between inspiration and creation,” said Andrew Silverman, co-founder of Groove Synthesis. “Whether you’re designing sounds from scratch or exploring our new sample library, everything just works. The workflow improvements might seem small individually, but together they transform the experience of using the 3rd Wave.”
Availability
OS 1.9a is available immediately as a free download for all 3rd Wave 24-voice keyboard and desktop module owners. The update includes the new small sample library and can be downloaded from our support page.
About Groove Synthesis
Groove Synthesis is the go-to synthesizer brand for those who demand innovation, premium quality, and truly inspiring creative instruments. More than just a synth maker, Groove is where the past meets the future—and where sound knows no limits.
Founded by Bob Coover and Andrew Silverman, and brought to fruition with help from several other synthesizer experts, Groove Synthesis has been based in California since 2020. The company combines technical expertise in audio, signal processing, and computing with the artistic creativity of experienced musicians to create distinctive synthesizers that inspire musicians worldwide. We created the 3rd Wave out of our love of classic wavetable synthesis, but then added many other synthesis techniques so that the synthesizer is both easy to use and is capable of creating just about any sound you want.