Here are this weekend’s deal trio from 4Pockets, ending November 17th.
- RingsFX – $14.99 to $7.99 (ending November 19th)
- Audio Shredder – $7.99 to $4.99
- QuadroSphere – $14.99 to $8.99
RingsFX
RingsFX is an AUv3 plugin based on the famous Mutable Instruments Rings, one of the most dedicated and fully-featured Physical Modelling Eurorack modules ever created. At its core is a resonator that needs to be ‘excited’ or ‘strummed’ by MIDI input, noise, or external audio excitation.
RingsFX emulates vibrations of structures simulated by 3 different synthesis techniques that can be plucked or process external signals: Modal Synthesis, Sympathetic Strings, and Inharmonic Strings. Traditionally, Rings was only monophonic but used a unique approach to polyphony that allowed the previous note to ‘ring’ out and decay while a new note was played. Rings FX provides these same modes (Mono, Duo, and Quad), but expands it with a true Polyphonic mode. RingsFX also expands the capabilities of the original engine by adding support for velocity sensitivity and MIDI MPE mode.
The new polyphonic mode allows RingsFX to play up to 12 notes of true polyphony, depending on the settings. Doing so requires RingsFX to use multiple Rings resonators, but the more polyphony you use, the more processing power it requires.
RingsFX has 7 modes in total, by combining the 3 basic modes with additional properties such as western chords and specially tuned reverbs. The original hardware also featured a secret ‘Easter Egg’ mode, which in RingsFX is simply calling ‘Synthesizer’ mode, rumoured to be based on one of the early Korg synthesis methods. This mode supported several mutable effects which now work on in all resonator modes.
RingsFX also has a Mod-Matrix which allows you to combine the built-in LFOs and FEGs to great effect by manipulating parameters and mutable effects in real-time. Star of the show is a unique pulse sequencer which can be used to generate dramatic rhythms and modulation of controls.
Finally, RingsFX can be loaded as an AUv3 effect plugin. Set the Exciter Source to ‘INPUT’, and you can pass any audio through RingsFX and use this audio as an external exciter. For example, it can be used to great affect on a drum beat to create some crazy rhythms. Use the Output Mix to combine the original audio with the synthesised resonator output to create some stunning effects.
Audio Shredder
This is a AUv3 compatible audio effect which can be used as plugin with your favourite DAW such as Cubasis, Meteor, Auria or GarageBand. It supports a modern graphical interface and presets with stereo meters for monitoring signal levels.
This audio shredder does just what is says, it shreds incoming audio (usually strings or lengthy sustained chords) into bite size pieces, adds an envelope and passes through a filter of choice. The result is a gated staccato effect which you can shape into patterns or runs of quarter notes. These kinds of patterns can be heard in Trance / Dubstep / Hip Hop or other modern electronic music genres. You can control both left and right stereo channels independently, with control over pulse width, attack and release.
There are 4 difference filter types (Low Pass, High Pass, Band Pass and Notch) which can be enabled, with independent control over cutoff frequency and resonance. You can even randomise new settings each step for some incredibly complex and pleasing textures.
Each quarter note can be independently triggered or you can join them together to create longer runs.
This plugin allows complete parameter automation and auto sync to master tempo.
QuadroSphere
QuadroSphere is a great tool for bringing an instrument to life by creating a soundscape with a constantly moving sound source. QuadroSphere splits the incoming audio signal into 4 distinct coloured frequency bands using the frequency bar. Each band has an associated coloured sphere allowing you to control the pan, stereo separation and volume level.
You can use this plugin as a way to impose subtle control over stereo placement with little or no movement, or go crazy with random automation. Adding effects such as reverb or delay on a specific frequency band can help create a lush atmospheric swirling which surrounds the listener. This is great for musicians trying to create minimalistic ambient or tranquil soundscapes.
You can create up to 12 snapshots of the sphere parameters and effect settings, then morph between them at a designated speed (measured in beats). You can also enable continuous randomization mode, and have full control over which spheres and control which parts are automated.
You can also use QuadroSphere as a stereo splitter, using the additional outputs to add your own effects to band outputs.
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