Back in 2008: The MMW Catalogue became available
So this is a bit of a personal thing as I wrote a piece for the catalogue. The mobile music workshop ran for quite a few years though I never managed to get along to it sadly. The original post about the catalogue can be found here.
Back in 2008: Noise.IO Pro arrived
Yep, after what seemed like an eternity back in 2008 Noise.IO Pro finally arrived on the app store. It was a big deal back then. In 2008 it was a very impressive app. You can read a bit more about it here.
Arpeggio has 3 days to go and is 98% funded
Arpeggio Improvisation #1 from Tangible Instruments on Vimeo.
Just the last few days for Arpeggio on Kickstarter, so don't miss out if you were planning on getting in before it closed.
Back in 2006: Computer music feature on mobile
This was a real first back in 2006. Of course now all the magazines have regular features on mobile apps, but back then it was a bit of an oddity and of course there wasn't a huge amount to talk about either. Read the original post from 2006 here.
Editing Tour — Ferrite Recording Studio (video)
Video description:
"A quick tour of the editing screen of Ferrite Recording Studio, , an audio recorder & multi-track editor for iOS."
Caustic 3.2 - What's New (video)
Video description:
"A short video showcasing what's new in the upcoming release of Caustic 3.2."
... This looks amazing!
Of course the iOS version will hopefully follow along after Android.
Demo: Fieldscaper Part 2 (video)
Video description:
"In part two, I play a bit of piano and synth and mangle the tracks into some dark and eerie textures."
iRig Pro DUO - Trailer (video)
Video description:
"COMING SOON! iRig Pro DUO - The first truly-mobile, all-platform, fully-featured dual channel interface
To us, “truly mobile” means completely self contained… unhooked from the grid and free to create anytime and anywhere inspiration strikes you on any device.
iRig Pro DUO delivers true mobility in grand fashion. It packs a ton of useful recording features into an extremely compact enclosure that you can take with you anywhere."
OP-1 Freeride (w/ Tinysizer & Volca Beats) (video)
Video description:
"Here's a slow freestyle jam with the OP-1, Tinysizer and Korg Volca Beats :) Subscribe: http://www.youtube.com/subscription_c...
Questions or comments? Go ahead and post them below! :) Thanks for watching! Check out my channel for more Synthesizer Music.
Audio gear used:
- Teenage Engineering OP-1 (Supersynth)
- Anyware Instruments Tinysizer Modular Synth
- Korg Volca Beats (drum machine)
- Korg SQ1 Sequencer
- Tascam DR-40 Recorder
Eurorack: https://www.modulargrid.net/e/racks/view/111472
MU: https://www.modulargrid.net/d/racks/view/184264
Filmed with a Canon 550D / Rebel T2i."
live loops - op-1 with bleepdrum (video)
Video description:
"another jam using the teenage engineering op-1 and bleep labs bleep drum. using the tape function to layer sounds on the fly."
Here's a reminder for the SoundLab Play Space on the 25th of November ...
SoundLab is going a massive event at NESTA on the 25th of November. You can find the full details here.
If you're involved in music making, teaching, facilitating, or involved with people with learning disabilities and you're around London on the 25th of November, then sign up for the event here.
Let me know if you're going to be there.
Reminder: Get more Blocks modules if you've already backed them on kickstarter ...
I've already backed Blocks personally, but now they're doing this thing where you can get extra modules for free once you've backed the Kickstarter campaign.
I'm not entirely sure how it works, but if you've backed the Kickstarter, then you go here (my page) and get credits.
So, if you've already backed their kickstarter, then go here and do what it says. If you haven't and were planning to back the kickstarter, then do that first, then go here. Make sense?
I'm not entirely sure how it works, but if you've backed the Kickstarter, then you go here (my page) and get credits.
So, if you've already backed their kickstarter, then go here and do what it says. If you haven't and were planning to back the kickstarter, then do that first, then go here. Make sense?
Less than a week for Arpeggio on Kickstarter
There's just under a week to go if you want to get in on Arpeggio's kickstarter. So if you haven't taken a look so far, then please go look now, this is a really interesting device and it's app integration makes it that much more special.
Click the box below to have a look on kickstarter.
Epic minor Songtree update arrives
Songtree Recorder - Free Collaborative Music Making app gets an update which they refer to as ...
"The most epic of minor updates"
fixes include:
"The most epic of minor updates"
fixes include:
- New startup menu page: start a recording, scroll the latest songs uploaded or explore the community
- Bookmark & Search features: you can now easily find songs and save them to listen or overdub later
- Easily import and export audio via third party apps or software with AudioCopy (via copy & paste), iOS Airdrop and "Open in"
- Other bug fixing
monoleap for iPhone has arrived
A new controller for your iPhone has arrived, monoleap ...
Here are the details ...
Monoleap is a new kind of MIDI controller for playing monophonic instruments, such as synth, lead, wind, brass bass.
Once you master the fingering patterns, you'll be able to play monoleap without looking at the device, and have fine grain control over the instrument sound an articulation by moving your hands horizontally and vertically on the iPAD screen.
For more information on how to setup the instrument and how to play, please download the "Getting Started" guide from the following URL:
http://www.monoleap.com/docs/MonoleapGettingStarted.pdf
Monoleap is free on the app store, just click below:
First Look at Fieldscaper Part 1 (video)
Video description:
"In part one of a two part video review, I take a look at Igor Vilisiev's Fieldscaper, a three track field recorder that allows you to mangle audio into some other worldly soundscapes. I go through all the effects and in part two, I perform a synth bit and warp it into something not of this earth."
AnalogKit 1.0.2 arrived
AnalogKit 1.0.2 brings lots of nice little fixes and more:
- Fixed iOS 9 crash when network was unavailable.
- Fixed iOS 9 audio issue when resuming from background.
- Added linear knob control modes.
- Added long press to reorder ports in port settings.
- Updated Audiobus version.
- Fixed inter-app audio issue when launching from host.
- Added inter-app audio host shortcut
- Improve MIDI learn for buttons.
- Fixed error when opening currently syncing projects.
- Rearrange module popup menu to group destructive actions.
- Sequencer now undoable and causes save prompt.
- Fixed inadvertent selection of module in/outs with lasso.
Semi-Generative Music Using Borderlands Granular Demo (video)
Video description:
"One or two people have asked me to explain this “thing” I’ve been doing with Borderlands lately. So…
I tried to keep this demo simple so it’s easier to work out what’s going on, but hopefully still produce reasonably musical and interesting stuff. Hopefully.
There are only 12 sampled notes (the rectangular waveforms) and three parts / clouds – the moving circle things. The strings part on the right is cycling through three pairs of two-note chords. Top left are three cycling notes on trumpets, bottom left are three cycling notes on trombone / tenor sax.
Because the three cycles are slightly different lengths and not synchronised in any way, you get the illusion that the piece is constantly evolving – even though it isn’t really - it just takes quite a long time for it to repeat as a whole, even though the three parts themselves aren't very long. So I call it "semi-generative" music.
I used NI Session Strings and NI Session Horns to produce sustained single notes then imported them into Borderlands and recorded the parts' motion that you're watching now.
Hope you find it interesting, and apologies to Michael Nyman fans :-)"
Borderlands Granular on the app store:
Don't forget, Mogees on Kickstarter ...
In case you didn't know, Mogees are back on Kickstarter and have over a week to go if you want to grab one of their new devices.
E Theremin gets an update in version 1.1
E Theremin 1.1 includes:
- New GUI
- Keyboard
- Improved slider control
- New sound engine
- Delay
- Reverb
Quirky Beat on the Dam Drum 3.0 from Stones Throw & Bleep Labs (video)
Video description:
"A little late night mess about with the Dam Drum 3 while nothing was on TV.
I'd forgotten how tricky it was to get these patterns to line up, I have a feeling that a couple of the buttons start their sequences on different beats...adding to the random nature of whatever happens with the unit!
While I enjoy playing with the Dam Drum, it is very difficult to get a recording onto youtube that doesn't sound bad - I think Youtube compression gets a little over-eager with the 8bit grunginess of the unit."
Different Drummer 4 has arrived with Zenterface (almost)
Here's what's new in Different Drummer 4:
- New Zenterface provides a new, simpler way to interact with Different Drummer—it's cool (in-app purchase for full unlock)!
- Master tuning control
- Drum sets
- Two new wave styles: mirrored and clipped
- New Zoom control for Wave View
- New Settings and Mixer
- Custom color themes
- New template chooser
- Plays nicer when in background (music player is now entirely independent of interface)
- More!
Let's Listen to TONESTACK for iOS (video)
Video description:
"What kinds of sounds can you get from ToneStack for iOS? Rock, jazz, metal, blues, country, experimental, just to name a few. With by far the largest selection of amps, cabs, and effects on iOS, the possibilities are endless."
You remember SoundLab? Well now we're doing this ...
SoundLab is going a massive event at NESTA on the 25th of November. You can find the full details here.
If you're involved in music making, teaching, facilitating, or involved with people with learning disabilities and you're around London on the 25th of November, then sign up for the event here.
Let me know if you're going to be there.
I've mentioned blocks before ...
And I still think it's a very cool idea. I've already backed it personally, but now they're doing this thing where you can get extra modules for free once you've backed the Kickstarter campaign.
I'm not entirely sure how it works, but if you've backed the Kickstarter, then you go here (my page) and get credits.
So, if you've already backed their kickstarter, then go here and do what it says. If you haven't and were planning to back the kickstarter, then do that first, then go here. Make sense?
I'm not entirely sure how it works, but if you've backed the Kickstarter, then you go here (my page) and get credits.
So, if you've already backed their kickstarter, then go here and do what it says. If you haven't and were planning to back the kickstarter, then do that first, then go here. Make sense?
Back in 2007: Very strange indeed ...
I actually had one or two of these very strange objects from McDonalds. I never thought that they'd enter the mobile music world. You can see the pictures in the original post.
Analog Kit Demo (video)
Video description:
"Running through some projects put together in the Modular music app Analog Kit by Bitcount. All patches made on iPad2, you can do much more complex projects on newer devices"
Bimini Road - Audulus Patch - The Warpeggiator (video)
Video description:
"The Warpeggiator works by using keyboard input to control step values in a sequencer. The Warpeggiated sound is panned a little more towards the left - an unaffected keyboard input is more in the right. The the button turns feedback on an off, which uses the output of the sequencer to control the key input routing to each step (the Pattern control). Using the Touched Clock with the Warpeggiator allows for infinitely unique and grooving patterns, from the melodic and ethereal to the nasty and growling.
www.biminiroadelectronics.com/audulus
Note: Glitching is not in Audulus - it's from how I had to route my audio to record the video."
Back in 2009: Everyday looper arrived
Yep, back in 2009 on this very day Everyday Looper first arrived. It was a massive hit and there were some completely amazing videos made using it.
Ferrite Recording Studio — Recording/Library Tour (video)
Video description:
"Here’s a quick tour to help you find your way around the Recording/Library screen of Ferrite Recording Studio, an audio recorder & multi-track editor for iOS."
iRig Mic Lav - Broadcast audio goes mobile (video)
Video description:
"iRig Mic Lav - visit http://www.ikmultimedia.com/irigmiclav for more information
iRig Mic Lav is an ultra-affordable and compact professional-quality mobile lavalier microphone for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Android. Features:
- Professional mobile lavalier microphone for all devices
- High-quality omnidirectional condenser capsule
- Includes foam pop shield and durable mounting clip
- 1/8" TRRS jack connects to iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Android
- Combo 1/8" TRRS port can be used for headphone monitoring/line out to powered speaker
- Combo 1/8" TRRS port can be used for chaining up to two iRig Mic Lavs to the same device
- Compatible with any audio app that accepts audio from headset input
- Comes with a suite of powerful recording apps
- 150cm/66” cable
- Also available as 2 Pack – iRig Mic Lav 2 Pack"
Not checked out Arpeggio on Kickstarter as yet? Do it now!
There's just about a week and a half to get Arpeggio over the line, so if you haven't taken a look so far, then please go look now, this is a really interesting device and it's app integration makes it that much more special.
Click the box below to have a look on kickstarter.
iRig Mic Lav - Overview (video)
Video description:
"The chainable mobile lavalier with built-in monitoring capability
for all mobile devices - http://www.ikmultimedia.com/irigmiclav/
You're a visionary videographer, an intrepid journalist, a dedicated podcaster. And when you're out in the field, you want to be able to record high-quality audio for your projects with the hands-free convenience of a lavalier microphone, and you want to do it without breaking the bank."
Back in 2009: SoundCloud app details emerge
It's amazing to think that we all take SoundCloud for granted to a degree, but in 2009 we didn't have a SoundCloud app, and back then the details were only just emerging. I think if I remember correctly that when it did arrive they charged for it too. Strange to think of that.
Happy birthday Addictive Microsynth
Today back in 2011 Addictive Microsynth arrived on the app store for the first time. Happy birthday to Addictive!
ToneStack 2.0 has arrived and is on half price sale too
ToneStack 2.0 has arrived and it is on sale as well with 50% off, down from $9.99 to $4.99.
Welcome to ToneStack 2.0! The biggest collection of effects, amps and cabs on iOS just got even bigger! ToneStack 2.0 offers 43 BRAND NEW amps, cabs, and effects, including lots of new exciting gear for guitar and bass. These new units sound better than ever and emulate many classic and modern sounds.
We're introducing several new bundles featuring our new effects
But wait! There's more! (We've always wanted to say that)
Welcome to ToneStack 2.0! The biggest collection of effects, amps and cabs on iOS just got even bigger! ToneStack 2.0 offers 43 BRAND NEW amps, cabs, and effects, including lots of new exciting gear for guitar and bass. These new units sound better than ever and emulate many classic and modern sounds.
- 15 all-new amps
- 14 all-new cabs
- 14 all-new FX
We're introducing several new bundles featuring our new effects
- Motherload v2.0: Unlock everything the entire app has to offer from versions 1.0 & 2.0
- Motherload v2.0 Upgrade Bundle: Designed for Motherload 1.0 owners, the Upgrade Bundle contains everything new in 2.0
- Boutique Bundle 1
- Boutique Bundle 2
- Bass Bundle 1
- Bass Bundle 2
But wait! There's more! (We've always wanted to say that)
- Preset changes are 8X faster - almost instantaneous (measurements on iPad Air, iOS 9.0.2)
- Completely redesigned ToneStack store, where you can now search for gear via keyword or genre
- Enhanced amps & FX processing
- New bank “ToneStack 2.0” showcasing some of the new gear
- Double-tap to reset on fx/amp faders
- And lots more!
ToneStack GO 2.0 is here
ToneStack GO has been updated as follows ...
Welcome to ToneStack 2.0! The biggest collection of effects, amps and cabs on iOS just got even bigger! ToneStack 2.0 offers 43 BRAND NEW amps, cabs, and effects, including lots of new exciting gear for guitar and bass. These new units sound better than ever and emulate many classic and modern sounds.
We're introducing several new bundles featuring our new effects
But wait! There's more! (We've always wanted to say that)
Welcome to ToneStack 2.0! The biggest collection of effects, amps and cabs on iOS just got even bigger! ToneStack 2.0 offers 43 BRAND NEW amps, cabs, and effects, including lots of new exciting gear for guitar and bass. These new units sound better than ever and emulate many classic and modern sounds.
- 15 all-new amps
- 14 all-new cabs
- 14 all-new FX
We're introducing several new bundles featuring our new effects
- Motherload v2.0: Unlock everything the entire app has to offer from versions 1.0 & 2.0
- Motherload v2.0 Upgrade Bundle: Designed for Motherload 1.0 owners, the Upgrade Bundle contains everything new in 2.0
- Boutique Bundle 1
- Boutique Bundle 2
- Bass Bundle 1
- Bass Bundle 2
But wait! There's more! (We've always wanted to say that)
- Preset changes are 8X faster - almost instantaneous (measurements on iPad Air, iOS 9.0.2)
- Completely redesigned ToneStack store, where you can now search for gear via keyword or genre
- Enhanced amps & FX processing
- New bank “ToneStack 2.0” showcasing some of the new gear
- Double-tap to reset on fx/amp faders
- And lots more!
FieldScaper 1.1 already on the way
So for anyone with a 6s this one is for you (especially you Rob as you asked me about this earlier)
And so first release and first problem. On the iPhone 6s there is problem with using internal mic. The hardware sample rate for internal mic is fixed at 48 kHz and app can't change it. With headset or external audio card all ok. Unfortunately the FieldScaper can't start without connected headphones on this device.
But don't worry, I found and fix this issue. New version 1.1 already submitted for review and I asked for expedited review of this update. Will it be fast or as usual I don't know. But I hope they respond.
Also in this update several significant improvements:
And so first release and first problem. On the iPhone 6s there is problem with using internal mic. The hardware sample rate for internal mic is fixed at 48 kHz and app can't change it. With headset or external audio card all ok. Unfortunately the FieldScaper can't start without connected headphones on this device.
But don't worry, I found and fix this issue. New version 1.1 already submitted for review and I asked for expedited review of this update. Will it be fast or as usual I don't know. But I hope they respond.
Also in this update several significant improvements:
- Improved user interface and sound engine.
- Each oscillator start separately.
- One oscillator can be started in loop mode, others playback samples.
- File markers In and Out stored for each file.
- Improved performance.
Just so you know ...
get touchAble , Mini, bundle, and live device template pack for 50% off until sunday, it’s’our fifth birthday
— TouchAble (@touchAbleApp) October 21, 2015touchAble on the app store:
touchAble Mini on the app store:
Back in 2009: Toro Mini arrived
I've mentioned how much I liked this app before, and back in 2009 today it arrived on the app store.
FieldScaper - Sound warp field recorder and scape constructor has arrived!
It's here at last, we've been waiting for this for quite a while now, but FieldScaper - Sound warp field recorder and scape constructor is here at last! Here are the details ...
Advanced field recorder combined with sound warp engine with a collection of ready to use dynamic presets for iPad and iPhone. Discover new ways to create and construct unusual and exciting sounds from any environmental audio recordings or samples recorded from other apps through Inter-App audio or Audiobus.
The main purpose of this advanced app is to shorten the way from recording samples to create spectacular soundscapes and in addition to use this app as glitch loop based effect in the real-time.
The FieldScaper consists of two main parts. The first part is the field recorder with special options for different ways of record environmental sound from microphone or record other sound sources. The second part is the scaper sound engine that with using dynamic presets can easily transform the most ordinary samples into something absolutely different. These parts connect with each other into one whole but you can use recorder or scaper separately.
The scaper sound engine contains three sample-based oscillators each with filters, delay, distortion and spatial mixer. The most of parameters can be assigned on individual low-frequency oscillators. With using the "Main effect" fader you can control several these parameters in different ranges. These features give you the abilty to create continuously changing, breaking and glitching sound forms and loop-based effects from ordinary samples of synths, guitars, voices or everyday sounds of the environment.
FieldScaper supports complete MIDI control for all faders, knobs and many buttons. You can change the parameters of oscillators, filters, delays and mixer by using any external MIDI controller or MIDI apps like sequencers. With the MIDI controllers this app becomes very comfortable to use at live performance.
Field recorder:
- Loop based mode for recording and processing in real-time.
- Auto start record when input signal appears.
- Auto stop record when silence or by time.
- Record timer in seconds or measures.
- Monitoring input signal with different modes.
- Automatic gain control of input signal.
- Predefined filters for input.
- Noise gate on the input.
Scaper sound engine:
- Three sample-based oscillators with complete processing.
- Low-pass, high-pass and band-pass filters with resonance.
- Two range delay with smooth time change and additional modes.
- Spatial mixer/reverb with side and distance.
- Wide range of oscillator clock speed change with reverse.
- Distortion effect based on masking sample address (like circuit bending).
- Distortion effect consisting of lofi, overload, noise and ring modulation.
- Individual LFO for variable parameters of oscillators and filters.
- The "Main effect" function for control several parameters simultaneously.
- Presets for save all parameters of oscillator and filters.
Additional features:
- Predefined presets with wide range of effects.
- Convenient file manager with groups of files by name or date.
- Complete MIDI control for all faders, knobs and other modes.
- Possibility to download additional samples in different audio formats.
- Uploading samples thru Web access, clipboard, from another app and iTunes.
- Different color schemes available for the user interface.
- Detailed application description.
- Supports Audiobus with "State Saving" feature.
- Inter-App audio compatible.
Requirements:
Third generation of iPad or fifth generation of iPhone and higher is required.
You can find more details about SoundScaper on the website:
http://motion-soundscape.blogspot.com
FieldScaper costs $5.99 on the app store, that's an initial price:
So I have to say a big Happy Birthday to touchAble
It seems amazing that touchAble is 3 years old now, and of course, it's lovely that they're celebrating by giving such good deals on their apps.
touchAble 3 for $4.99 on the app store:
touchAble mini for $4.99 on the app store:
Effectrix 1.1.0 brings new goodies to one of my all time favourite apps
Here's what's new in Effectrix 1.1.0:
- Audioshare support added (import & export)
- Dropbox export added
- Soundcloud export added
- iOS9 compatibility improved
- Audiobus updated
- Audiocopy updated
Turnado 1.3.2 arrives
Here's what's new in Turnado:
- Audioshare support added (import & export)
- Dropbox export added
- Soundcloud export added
- Midi Learn bugfix
- iOS9 compatibility improved
- Audiobus updated
- Audiocopy updated
MicSwap is still free
MicSwap (not the pro version) is still free rather than its normal price of $0.99, so grab it now if you fancy an awesome Mic simulation app.
Back in 2009: An awesome ad for Bleep!BOX
I still really like this ad for Bleep!BOX, and I still really like the app although I do realise that not everyone agrees with me on that front. Perhaps some will agree that the ad is great. Take a look.
Hey! Don't forget that Arpeggio is still on Kickstarter with just under 2 weeks to go
So you already know that Arpeggio is on Kickstarter now and is doing really well. If you haven't taken a look at this already then it's really worth checking out. Also, if you're thinking that this isn't really for an iOS mobile musician, think again ...
Arpeggio is doing some interesting things in terms of integrating the Arpeggio hardware with a companion app. Here's what they plan that you'll be able to do with the app:
- Connect to Arpeggio via bluetooth or usb
- Create backups of Arpeggio data including sequences/songs/sets, advanced sequencer settings, MIDI and I/O settings, synth patches and parameter values.
- Edit the sequences stored on Arpeggio
- Edit synth parameters of the patches stored on Arpeggio, create new synth patches and upload individual synth patches to Arpeggio.
- Export sequences, songs, and sets as standard MIDI files or other format useful for DAWs
- Share sequences, songs, sets, and synth patches over bluetooth from one Arpeggio to another.
- Adjust the advanced sequencer settings, MIDI and I/O settings on Arpeggio
- Update firmware, on Arpeggio, restore to factory defaults.
- Cross platform application iOS / Android / OSX / Windows
Automating Turnado Using MidiLFOs and MIDI Designer Pro (video)
Video description:
"In this video I demonstrate how to use midiLFOs to automate the Dictator control in Turnado. In order to achieve more rhythmic CC modulation, I sync midiLFOs to the clock on my BeatStep Pro, while using MIDI Designer Pro in the background to constrain the CC values coming from midiLFOs to 8 values instead of 128. The result is that the position of the Dictator changes every 2 beats in time with the sequencer.
As a bonus, towards the end I show how to automate the parameter sliders in Alchemy as well by using MIDI CC messages automatically sent by Turnado based on the position of the 8 knobs."
ToneStack 2.0 Sneak Peek: Taste the Metal (video)
Video description:
"Are you ready? ToneStack 2.0 is coming VERY soon! Here's a first listen of some of the new metal sounds available in version 2.0."
Ferrite Recording Studio — Preview (video)
Video description:
"A quick preview of our new app for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch, Ferrite Recording Studio. Record and edit audio on the go!
http://www.wooji-juice.com/products/ferrite/
We'll be uploading more videos soon, including guided tours and tutorials on how to use various features."
Well this looks pretty awesome to me. How about you?
Ferrite sounds amazing ...
It's a pretty big app — iLife-app-sized, I reckon — written in #Swiftlang for recording audio & multi-track editing, focusing on voice work.
— Wooji Juice (@wooji) October 19, 2015Not too long to wait hopefully ...
Audulus 3 for iOS submitted to Apple for review!
— Audulus (@audulus) October 18, 2015
Muckraker 1.1 gives you lotss of CC options
Here's what's New in Muckraker 1.1:
- MIDI CCs for all the effect parameters
- easily change the default CC assignments with MIDI learn
- set the MIDI channel and other options in the iOS Settings, with a direct link from the info screen
- iOS 9 multitasking is now supported in both split screen and slide-over modes
- you can enable background even when it's not connected to Audiobus or IAA
Phase84 is now available on Samsung Galaxy Apps Store
So Android music making has got a bit more interesting then ... This in from Retronyms:
Retronyms has released its first-ever Android app! Phase84 is now available on Samsung Galaxy Apps Store.
Phase84 includes over 110 presets including basses, leads, pads, bell tones, sweeps, atmospheric sounds, pseudo-realistic tones, and more. Users can tweak the synth using a combination of advanced envelope, LFO, Delay, Filter, and Oscillator settings. Phase84 includes features for expressive performance, a groove editor, and an advanced multi-octave keyboard.
Phase84 is available now exclusively on Samsung Galaxy Apps for $4.99. It takes advantage of Samsung’s Professional Audio SDK (SAPA) to deliver low latency performance. Samsung Galaxy devices including Galaxy S5, S6, S6 Edge, Galaxy Note 4, Galaxy Tab 5, and Galaxy Tab S2 support Samsung’s Pro Audio tech making this the first version of Phase84 to run on phones as well as tablets.
Phase84 also integrates with SoundCamp, a free mobile DAW by Samsung. Users can seamlessly load the synth into a track in SoundCamp, then record and edit notes on a piano roll sequencer. Combining Phase84 with other tracks, virtual instruments, and recorded audio, allows users to create full compositions and finished songs.
Get Phase84 on iPad for 4.99!
To celebrate the launch of Phase84 for Android, iOS users can get in on this fantastic synth for just $4.99.
FL Studio Mobile IAA Animoog MIDI Sequence
Video description:
"App Attack Ep 003 - Lots of viewers are asking if I would use an iPad when composing for TV shows. I have songs in several TV shows and I do use the iPad from time to time to get ideas started. My favorite app for sequencing midi sequences is FL Studio Mobile. I just really like the piano roll and editing features. They just make sense to me. I also like using IAA (Inter App Audio) when using FL Studio Mobile. IAA is Apple's proprietary method of routing apps internally. I slammed this little jam down in about 20 minutes. I was inspired by a preset in Animoog. It was used subtly. Other sounds were from the FL Studio Mobile synth.
Download the loops I created in this video here: http://www.ipadloops.com/free-loops/ipadloops_com_suspense.zip
For more info about FL Studio Mobile and Animoog visit http://www.ipadloops.com/
Thanks for watching and please subscribe so I can continue to create more videos and free loops."
FL Studio Mobile on the app store:
Animoog on the app store:
The Sunvox Song Contest is on
In case you didn't know already, the Sunvox Song Contest has in fact started and is running now. You've got until the 1st of November to get your entry in. All the details and conditions can be found here.
If you wanted to know how to put your own samples into figure, then here's how
Figure on the app store:
Loopseque The EPIC Guide for iPad (video)
I love Loopseque and haven't seen enough about it for ages and ages, so it's great to see this.
Loopseque on the app store:
Patterning user interface case study
Whilst this was posted a few weeks ago it still makes for an interesting read and a sort of comparison between Patterning and Rhythm Necklace. I'm not sure about his complaints, but then, each to their own I suppose.
It's an interesting read nevertheless (link to post).
If you don't know Patterning, you can find it here on the app store:
If you don't know Rhythm Necklace, you can find it here on the app store:
It's an interesting read nevertheless (link to post).
If you don't know Patterning, you can find it here on the app store:
If you don't know Rhythm Necklace, you can find it here on the app store:
PalmSounds on tapes ... Tape from Focusrite
Ok, if you wanted to be 100% accurate then this isn't cassette based, but it is tape based of course, reel to reel to be precise. Even so, it also goes to show just how tapes and cassettes have impacted how we think about recording.
PalmSounds and tapes ... Apps that are just a bit, well, cassettesque ... Audio Mastering Studio
Another app with strong ties to the world of the cassette is Audio Mastering Studio which is a great app and can give you just about any final mastering feel.
If you don't know it then it's worth checking out, especially on Cassette Store Day 2015:
If you don't know it then it's worth checking out, especially on Cassette Store Day 2015:
PalmSounds and tapes ... Apps that are just a bit, well, cassettesque ... AUFX:Dub
So I was thinking about apps that are in themselves a bit tape-ish, and I thought about AUFX:Dub, which specifically has tape simulation controls. I think this is quite awesome actually. It does amaze me that tapes have had such a big impact on how we think about things in music technology.
AUFX:Dub on the app store:
AUFX:Dub on the app store:
Palm Sounds and tapes ... Back in 2007: A little tape related find at CDM
So it seems that people have liked to use cassettes for all sorts of things, namely this find at CDM back in 2007. I've no idea if this went any further or not, but even if it didn't it, it was still a lovely idea.
MultiTrack DAW 4 appears out of nowhere and brings loads of new stuff
MultiTrack DAW is one of the best multitracks for iOS in my view and also one that's been around the longest, since 2011. Version 4.0 has appeared with no warning or teasing as usual and is packed with new features and fixes too.
New Features:
Bug Fixes:
New Features:
- Freeze tracks - drastically reduces processing for tracks with IAA effects, and frees up the plugins for use on other tracks.
- Loop Recording - allows continuous overwriting while it loops. Stop and undo after a good take.
- Smaller audio buffers - sizes of 64 are now supported for low latency monitoring.
- Rewritten audio engine for perfectly clean audio quality.
- Volume/pan adjustments are filtered and interpolated, no 'zippering'.
- Compressor uses exponential gain reduction metering.
- Long-Touch zipped song project icon now has 'Open in' button for sharing the zip.
- Final mixdown now uses loop markers as song start and end.
- Final mixdown won't overwrite older mixdowns with same name.
- All sorting/ordering uses numeric sort (Song, Shared, Inputs, IAA effects, generators, instruments).
- Silence rendered to IAA plugins when doing mixdown/copy operation, to flush out buffers.
- Wi-Fi web server lists songs in same order as shown in multitrack.
- Track and bin download filenames now contain the song name as prefix.
Bug Fixes:
- Fix an iPhone 6S bug with missing tabs (Export, Shared, and Upgrades).
- Fix iOS 9 bug with 2 finger pinch zooming sometimes popping back to another zoom level.
- Fix retina displays sometimes not able to open the Hotbox with a Long-Touch.
- Fix an Audiobus monitoring bug where no sound would be heard unless 'Input Monitoring' was on.
- Fix a bug when drag reordering 3 or more IAA track plugins.
- New Audiobus lib should fix the samplerate issues on iPhone 6S with internal speaker/mic.
- Fix a buffer size bug on cold start.
- Fix lights on compressor gain reduction meter being stuck sometimes when turning it off.
- SoundCloud fixes.
Music IO: Audio and MIDI over USB 1.4 is pretty impressive
Music IO: Audio and MIDI over USB, new features in 1.40:
- Support for multiple devices on the Mac; now connect as many iPhones and iPads as you like, to stream both audio and MIDI to any destination you wish (audio is limited to 4 iOS devices)
- Support for chains of up to four IAA effects apps on each track (up to 16 effects total)
- Support for PCs is now out of beta; connect musicIO to your PC desktop DAW, using the free VST available on the musicIO web site
- Bug fixes, stability improvements and performance enhancements
PalmSounds and tapes ... Celebrating the Philips PMC 100
The PMC 100 is the only synth I've ever known to be manufactured to include a cassette mechanism.
How awesome is that?
PalmSounds and tapes ... this is a lovely idea
My @BareConductive Mixtape Machine is coming on. It's the cassette and the Walkman combined! Only 12 songs mind. C60. pic.twitter.com/f9QbCZTTOd
— Greg Stedman (@differenting) September 12, 2015In fact, so much so that I might even give it a try myself.
Back in 2009: Toro Mini was on the way
Toro Mini was a lovely little app with some great sound presets in it. I think in some ways it paved the way for a number of other synths, but it didn't really get the attention it deserved, which was a real shame.
PalmSounds and tapes ... Back in 2013, in praise of the walkman
I actually still own this and it is still a lovely piece of engineering.
PalmSounds and tapes ... Back in 2010: A cassette stand for your iPhone?
I have to say I'm not entirely sure if this would've worked, but it was a nice idea.
PalmSounds and tapes ... This on Disquiet
Which was a beautiful idea, and quite inspired actually. You should take a look at the original post from back in 2010 here.
Welcome to Cassette Store Day 2015
I think that this is a big thing actually. Ok, it isn't as big as Record Store Day, but it is a big thing, and I like that. I have a special affection for cassettes. I always have done.
So today is going to be a lot about Cassette Store Day. I hope you enjoy it, I do.
So today is going to be a lot about Cassette Store Day. I hope you enjoy it, I do.
Blue Peter theme tune played on vegetables - CBBC (this is Dentaku and their Ototo board) ... (video)
I didn't ever think that I'd be posting a video from Blue Peter but here we go. I didn't expect to see Dentaku on CBBC, but here we.
I thought it was great though, and I'm really pleased to see the Ototo in action again. I'm still enjoying using mine too.
Here's the post from Dentaku about the whole thing too.
SoundPrism Pro gets an accessibility update
SoundPrism Pro gets a little update with UI improvements for blind and low-vision users.
midiSTEPs for iPad: sequencing music apps (iMini, iSEM, iElectribe and Sampletank) (video)
Video description:
"First jam with the new midiSTEPs midi sequencer for iPad. Here I am playing with iElectribe (receiving midi clock only), Sampletank (two channels, for bass and strings), Arturia iMini and Arturia iSem (synths). It is great for controlling MIDI hardware too."
So the AUFX series get some little updates, but the Drone synth is what I'm waiting for
You may have seen this before, but here it is anyway ...
GrooveCloud 1.9 out Now! New session browser with search function + mixer knobs fixes @MusicalAndroid1 @PalmSounds pic.twitter.com/k92xXPcPiG
— GrooveCloud (@theGrooveCloud) October 13, 2015BitShapeSoft iOS9 updates are coming ...
iOS 9 updates coming soon! Not included this round: multitasking. That's a shitload of layout work that's gonna take some time to get right.
— Bit Shape (@BitShapeSoft) October 13, 2015in 2009: A first look at the Tascam DP-008
This is still one of those devices that I'd love to own at some point although I know I have no real need for it at all. It's still quite lovely and they seem to retain the price quite well. Which is one of the reasons I haven't bought one to be honest.
Animoog 2.3 brings a bunch of updates
Here's what's new in Animoog 2.3:
- Support for Audiobus state saving.
- Support for configurable sample rates and buffers sizes, up to 96kHz/1024.
- Support for iOS 9.
- Better background audio behavior.
- Support for latest Audiobus version.
- Auto-scroll for timbre slots will now be canceled when there's a touch on the right table with categories.
[iOS] Thicket:Classic, SECTOR and Hexaglyphics Jam [iOS 8, iPad Air]
Thicket:Classic on the app store:
SECTOR on the app store:
Hexaglyphics on the app store:
NanoStudio, VALIUMcontrol Pack For Eden Synth, Outstanding (video)
Video description:
You can buy the VALIUMcontrol Sound Pack by Harison Zamperla here at his site.
https://sellfy.com/729815513802500
You will also find his other packs for NanoStudio there also.
Happy birthday Arctic Keys
Back in 2011 Arctic Keys first arrived on the app store. A big happy birthday to Arctic Keys from Palm Sounds.
Beautiful instruments made of the basic SunVox modules (video)
Video description:
"SunVox is a small, fast and powerful modular synthesizer with pattern-based sequencer (tracker). It is a tool for those people who like to compose music wherever they are, whenever they wish. On any device. SunVox is available for Windows, OS X, Linux, Maemo, Meego, Raspberry Pi, Windows Mobile (WindowsCE), PalmOS, iOS and Android."
Diode-108 Drum Machine 1.4 brings more MIDI goodness.
Version 1.4 of Diode-108 Drum Machine adds MIDI sync out and MIDI note out to Diode-108's already existing MIDI in capabilities.
Back in 2008: The Stylophone was coming to your iPhone
Another app that's gone now, but back in 2008 it was great to see this come along to the platform. The original post on this is here.
FieldScaper 1.0 submitted to the app store!
I'm really looking forward to this app. Here's what to expect ...
"FieldScaper - Sound warp field recorder and scape constructor has been submitted for review.
Advanced field recorder combined with sound warp engine with a collection of ready to use dynamic presets for iPad and iPhone. Discover new ways to create and construct unusual and exciting sounds from any environmental audio recordings or samples recorded from other apps through Inter-App audio or Audiobus.
The main purpose of this advanced app is to shorten the way from recording samples to create spectacular soundscapes and in addition to use this app as glitch loop based effect in the real-time.
The FieldScaper consists of two main parts. The first part is the field recorder with special options for different ways of record environmental sound from microphone or record other sound sources. The second part is the scaper sound engine that with using dynamic presets can easily transform the most ordinary samples into something absolutely different. These parts connect with each other into one whole but you can use recorder or scaper separately.
The scaper sound engine contains three sample-based oscillators each with filters, delay, distortion and spatial mixer. The most of parameters can be assigned on individual low-frequency oscillators. With using the "Main effect" fader you can control several these parameters in different ranges. These features give you the abilty to create continuously changing, breaking and glitching sound forms and loop-based effects from ordinary samples of synths, guitars, voices or everyday sounds of the environment.
FieldScaper supports complete MIDI control for all faders, knobs and many buttons. You can change the parameters of oscillators, filters, delays and mixer by using any external MIDI controller or MIDI apps like sequencers. With the MIDI controllers this app becomes very comfortable to use at live performance."
midiSTEPs and midiLFOs by Arthur Kerns, Demo for iPad (video)
midiSTEPs on the app store:
midiLFOs on the app store:
Yonac's ToneStack 2.0 is coming
We (finally) submitted ToneStack 2.0 this weekend. Stay tuned for more info!
— Yonac Inc (@YonacSoftware) October 12, 2015Calculator Music: HoustonTracker 2 for the TI-82/83/83+/84+ (video) ... note, this is pretty awesom
Synthtopia and other sites picked this up and I have to admit that it really is a great story. I have to say that it reminds of the mode in Bhajis Loops that look like a spreadsheet so that if anyone caught you using it at work you could claim you were doing a spreadsheet on your PDA.
I love these kind of things, they just make me think about how awesome people are and how creative and making ordinary devices make music.
littleBits users rejoice, there's now an official littleBits app on the iOS store
I've been a littleBits user for some time now and have often wondered what they'd do in 'app' terms. This is a good start. It doesn't interface with your littleBits creations, but it does give you lots of suggestions and links to your littleBits online account.
I think that's a good start, but I hope it is just a start and that they'll add functionality to it over time.
For now, here's the app details from the store:
The littleBits App is your personal guide to unleashing creativity. Discover thousands of inventions, get inspiration for new projects, connect with the global littleBits community, access step-by-step project tutorials, and easily upload and share your own creations.
Learn how to make a blinking, buzzing, bumbling robot, a synth-keytar you can shred on, or the perfect way to automate your curtains to open with the sunrise.
- Get personalized littleBits project recommendations
- Explore thousands of inventions & instructions from people just like you
- Share your creations with other inventors in the littleBits community
- Earn badges by competing in community challenges and showcasing what you built
- Learn which inventions you can make with the Bits you own
- Manage your Bit inventory and build your collection
littleBits is a platform of easy-to-use electronic buildings blocks for you to create inventions large and small. These innovative building blocks snap together with tiny magnets, allowing anyone to build, invent, and prototype with electronics independent of age, gender and technical background – no soldering, wiring, or programming required.
The littleBits App is free on the app store:
Mobile music objects of desire: The NSP breakout box
BLOCKS - The World's First Modular Smartwatch (video), I know it isn't directly music related, but ...
I still have a hope that there will be some kind of wearable / smartwatch idea that can deal with music in a meaningful way, and, this seems to be a good contender. Let's see what it looks like on Tuesday when it launches on Kickstarter.
FieldScaper - Sound warp field recorder and scape constructor (video)
Video description:
"Advanced field recorder combined with sound warp engine with a collection of ready to use dynamic presets for iPad and iPhone. Discover new ways to create and construct unusual and exciting sounds from any environmental audio recordings or samples recorded from other apps through Inter-App audio or Audiobus."
iSymphonic Orchestra 1.6.6. brings new Vento Sound Set
Here's what's new in iSymphonic Orchestra:
- Added new "Vento Sound Set" with 18 additional sounds as optional in-app purchase, which provides various wind instruments; bassoon, clarinet, flute, english horn and various ensembles. (requires 480 MB additional SSD space)
Back in 2007: A first hint at Android?
Strange to think of Android not being around, but back in 2007 here was the first hint that Google might be planning their own mobile OS. Here's the original post.