The jump to version 1.3 isn't just a maintenance patch; it brings tangible improvements for the end-user:

Earlier versions required the full (expensive) version of KONTAKT. Synthage 1.3 was optimized to run in the KONTAKT 6/7 Player. Because this is a "Free" library that works in the Player, you do not need to own Komplete Ultimate. You just download Native Access and the library, and you are off to the races.

Despite being free, Synthage 1.3 packs a feature set that rivals commercial products:

Version 1.3 introduced a dedicated bit-crusher and sample rate reducer on the master FX page. In previous versions, the sound was too clean. Now, with a single click, you can degrade your pad into a gritty, 12-bit memory of a synthesizer from 1984.

Even though Synthage 1.3 KONTAKT -FREE- is stable, users report a few glitches. Here are the fixes:

Issue: "Sounds cut out when playing fast." Fix: Increase the "Max Voices" in the KONTAKT instrument header from 16 to 64.

Issue: "The Noise Engine hiss is too loud." Fix: Go to the "Settings" wrench icon. Lower the "Noise Volume" fader. The default is +6dB; drop it to -12dB.

Issue: "It doesn't show up in my KONTAKT browser." Fix: You must use "Files" view (the little monitor icon) to navigate to the .nki file if Native Access failed to register it.