D16 Group has released PunchBox 2, a sequel to their celebrated kick drum synthesiser that retains the original’s gritty character while introducing significant new depth.
The sound remains brutal
The original plugin was a standout for its crunchy, aggressive tones and modular approach. It allowed users to build complex kick drums by layering clicks, tops, and tools without getting lost in endless tweaking. The new version does not smooth out this edge. Instead, it preserves the unique interface and engine options while adding modern sound materials and better envelope control.
The visual design keeps the worn, industrial aesthetic of the first release. The update includes high-definition display content and new modes, but the core layout feels immediately familiar to existing users.
The architecture is built around three sample-based layers, now labelled 1, 2, and 3 to allow for flexible naming. The primary Kick generator supports 606, 808, 909, and sample modes, alongside a new entry.
New Wavetable module
Sound generation now features a dedicated Wavetable module with a position control that mimics a red Waldorf Microwave knob. This comes with a large library of new content that instantly updates the plugin’s sonic palette. Braids is included in the pack.
One element removed is the sine generator. While the wavetable and advanced modes compensate for this loss, some users may prefer to keep the original version for that specific function.
Advanced editor
The addition of the “advanced” mode justifies the version number. This feature adds multi-segmented pitch and amplitude envelopes for each layer, the kick generator, and the master output. Users can preview sounds to visualise how these envelopes affect the tone.
This capability turns the tool into a sub-focused synthesiser capable of creating rumbles, melodic bass lines, and other effects that usually require separate hardware. Despite the increased complexity, the interface remains intuitive enough for immediate results.
Updated browser
Navigating the content is easier thanks to an updated browser. It borrows tag filtering and other features from the wider D16 range but maintains the specific style of PunchBox.
Improved randomizer and export
Features present in version 1, such as the randomizer and export UI, have been refined for better discoverability. The randomizer now clearly shows which parameters can be selected or deselected for randomisation. While it would be useful to target envelopes and other effects in the future, the current implementation is still functional.
The export options are greatly expanded. Version 1 offered simple export and drag-and-drop capabilities. Version 2 adds pitch shifting, normalisation, and duration controls. A target folder feature allows users to assemble all samples in one location.
Expanded effects and routing
Every effects module has received a refresh with new options or clearer interfaces. The filter is available in resonant and SH-101 varieties. The EQ offers “modern” and “vintage” variants. Distortion modes are now labelled clearly rather than just by number.
The ability to reorder effects by dragging and dropping remains, as does the option to choose where the mixdown occurs. A new Patchbay Config pop-up visualises these routing choices and provides additional options.
One minor but useful change is the output channel strip, which now includes LED metering, a mono bass generator, and a pitch detector. This replaces the unreadable VU meters of the original.
Back panel
Users who dislike skeuomorphic design may find the “back panel” off-putting. This section is hidden behind a menu path rather than a toolbar button.
It allows for routing multiple outputs from a single kick drum. Users can choose which layer or generator includes effects, route to different outputs in supported hosts, and trim the outs with meters. The visual XLR jacks update when repatched, though they cannot be physically touched.
This overdesigned section is suitable for workflows involving outboard effects or complex mixing. The plugin runs as a VST3, though a Rack Extension version is not currently available for Reason.
PunchBox 2 works as a drop-in replacement for existing workflows in tools like Reason or Ableton Live. It is also effective for building kicks to export for hardware samplers.
What it means
Existing users will find a significant upgrade without losing the core identity of the original tool. The new envelope controls and routing options provide more flexibility for bass and kick design. The price is set at $89, with an upgrade path for current owners. A full-functioning demo is available for Mac, Windows, AU, AAX, VST2, and VST3.
PunchBox 2 is available now through July 25. After that date, the price increases to $109.
D16 Group PunchBox 2 at Plugin Boutique
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