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Tag: iOS synths

Review: NoInputMixer for iOS and macOS Opens New Frontiers in Synthesis
No input mixing is a boutique synthesis technique used by sound designers usually armed with only a mixer and some cables. It offers an exploratory approach focused on the creative control of noise and feedback. If interested in new frontiers of sonic exploration, this is a sound design area worthy of your notice.

Mobile synth maker, Igor Vasiliev, creator of the SynthScaper app we previously reviewed, recently introduced NoInputMixer for the iOS and macOS platforms. It provides an easy way to explore this style of synthesis in a virtual fashion. Needless to say, the app performs beautifully, providing a cornucopia of intriguing sounds to anyone without the fear of noise or unpredictability.

NoInputMixer for iOS Features
- Virtual 7 Channel Mixer
- 8 Slot Effects Rack
- Different Op-amp and Tube Preamp Models as well as Noise Colors
- EQ and Filters for Channels and Master Buss
- Supports External Audio Inputs like an Effects Processor
- Supports AUv3, IAA, Audiobus, Ableton Link
- Universal App for iOS and macOS
- Available at the App Store for $15.99
This feedback-based instrument lets sound designers and noise musicians leverage a touch interface to inspire their sonic creations. NoInputMixer provides an intuitive interface that seamlessly mimics a mixing board. The app also includes support for AUv3 and the earlier iOS audio communication protocols. Forward-thinking musicians interested in everything from lo-fi drones to Sci-Fi effects need to check out this app.

A Virtual Mixer to Generate Feedback and Sound

NoInputMixer sports a 7-channel virtual console with an additional effects rack with eight slots. Seven of the effects slots pair with a channel – one for each – with the eighth assigned to the master fader. Note that the master stereo buss also includes a reverb with an array of different verb types. Leveraging these effects plays a crucial role in generating interesting sounds from the feedback as well as the verb providing an essential sense of space for the entire mix.

As highlighted above, NoInputMixer’s user interface emulates a hardware mixer. A toolbar at the top of this mixer provides buttons for switching between a single channel or multichannel view. The former view provides access to deeper functionality, like the Amp and EQ/Filter settings. Simple taps allow switching between both views depending on your sound design style. Note that some screen elements that look like labels actually function as buttons!

NoInputMixer in action. Screenshot by author.

The single channel view spreads its controls across eight separate columns. The leftmost column allows switching between the seven channels as well as including convenient level and mute controls. The next four columns include settings for the individual channel, such as the amp settings, an EQ and filter, two effects sends, and the main channel level.

Pay close attention to the switch selecting the channel’s input signal. That control is critical, allowing for a variety of sources for feedback from throughout the mixer. You also have the option of using the app’s audio inputs, allowing NoInputMixer to essentially function as an AUv3 effect.

The final three columns support the main channel buss. These control the effects returns, master EQ and filter, as well as the master level and reverb controls. Clicking on the Channel label displays the full effects rack featuring the eight slots of fun mentioned earlier. Expect a standard array of effects types that all warrant exploration for transforming feedback into surreal soundscapes.

NoInputMixer Offers a Platform for Sonic Experimentation and Exploration

This relatively complex user interface of NoInputMixer provides copious opportunities for sonic exploration. Using the app effectively requires you to dive right in and start experimenting. Igor’s page for the app provides helpful information, including a guide/manual, a block diagram of the app’s sonic architecture, and a few tutorial videos. Still, an empirical approach quickly puts you on a path to creating surreal soundscapes usable in a variety of musical contexts.

Igor’s cheat sheet for NoInputMixer.

Start with Channel 1, set its input to either of the insert options, and increase the channel level. Expect to hear feedback and perhaps some noise depending on the Noise knob setting. Explore the different tubes on the preamp as each provides a subtle change in sonics.

The app provides a variety of noise colors and even a Geiger counter option. Turn up the Limit knob on the op-amp to tame that feedback and start your sonic journey. Controlling this knob adds variety to any creepy soundscape. Use the tube preamp switch to alternate between linear or saturated mode, with the latter adding some extra grit.

Use the Effects, Luke

With NoInputMixer, finding usable sounds remains a simple and fun process. Leverage the app’s effects engine simply adds to the insanity. The formant effect is especially useful in combination with sweeping the filter’s cutoff frequency in bandpass mode. Crank up the master channel’s reverb level to put your entire mix squarely into deep space. The variety of reverb types provides usable spaces in which to place your surreal soundscapes.

Simply experimenting remains the right approach to get the most out of the app. There are no mistakes when using NoInputMixer! For example, during one of my first sessions with the app, I somehow stumbled upon this interesting rhythm. Working in AUM, I simply hit record with the following result.

The Included NoInputMixer Presets Provides a Great Source of Ideas

Also take the time to explore the large number of presets provided with the app. Upon loading one, expect to hear an intriguing soundscape, inspiring you to reverse engineer the preset. Conjuring up complex sonic worlds becomes easy when using individual channels or a pair of channels for different sounds.

I easily built an intriguing drone using this method, leveraging the formant effect type to add a ghostly element to the feedback on one channel, with the other providing a backdrop of Geiger counter-inspired noise. As with other examples of subtractive synthesis, a sweep of the filter cutoff frequency adds a measure of freakiness to the sonics. A realization of the true power of NoInputMixer to create soundscapes with a sense of dark ambience and musicality began to emerge.

A third “dronescape” appeared during another session with NoInputMixer. While similar to the second piece, this track offers a more surreal atmosphere related to my higher comfort level with the app’s architecture. Using a third channel with feedback from the entire mix added a strange sense of sonic depth to the proceedings.

Sound Designers, Psychedelic Musicians, and Noise Artists Need NoInputMixer

In the end, NoInputMixer serves as a seemingly limitless playground of sound. Use the copious amount of presets as inspiration. Take advantage of the wide array of tutorials of the app listed on Igor’s page linked above. Most of all, simply dive right in and trust your instincts. An empirical approach pays dividends, allow you to create any number of intriguing soundscapes.

NoInputMixer needs to be explored by anyone looking for a unique form of synthesis. It perfectly simulates the real world no input mixing approach on the iOS and macOS platforms with the top-shelf sound quality typical of Igor’s other apps. Sound designers, exploratory musicians, and noise artists are arguably the target market for this app. Check it out at your earliest convenience!
February 5, 2024
Review: Shockwave is a Versatile iPad Semi-Modular Synth
The iOS platform is overrun with so many synth apps, it’s hard to stand out from the pack. This isn’t the case with Shockwave. It’s a monophonic synth using phase distortion synthesis and a workflow straight out of the Eurorack modular world to provide unique sounds suitable for everything from leads to drones.

Shockwave For The iPad Features
- Semi-Modular Phase Distortion Monophonic Synth
- Two Oscillators With 5 Waveforms and Noise
- Two ASR Envelopes
- Two Syncable LFOs
- Mixer With Separate Level and Pan Controls Per Oscillator
- Cross-Mod Oscillators With Frequency, Amplitude, Ring, and Phase Modulation
- Robust Pattern Generator Powers 2×8 or 1×16 Sequencer
- Modulation Support Features 11 Sources and 40 Destinations
- Modular Features Includes Logic Module, Probability Gate, and Trigger Divider
- Support for MPE, MIDI CC Learn, and More
- Deep MIDI Out Functionality Controls External Apps and Hardware
- Great Reverb and Delay Effects
- Supports AUv3, IAA, and Audiobus 3
- Available at The App Store For $19.99
Developed by Kai Aras and his company, Numerical Audio, Shockwave belongs in the app library of any iOS musician looking for a high-quality semi-modular synth. Its great sound and intuitive interface make it easy to dive right in and create patches usable in electronic and experimental music. As such, it definitely ranks among the best iOS synth apps.

Shockwave’s Intuitive Interface Supports Experimentation

Shockwave’s interface features two main screens. One primarily handles the synth programming, with the other featuring the sequencer and utility functions. Everything is laid out in a logical manner, utilizing a cool purple color scheme which can be modified.

Shockwave features a clean user interface. Screenshot by author.

On both screens, tapping the question mark enters a help mode where clicking on a control reveals its function. Still, navigating Shockwave is simple for any semi-experienced synth user. Buttons to switch screens, browse patches, manage modulations, control playback, and more lurk at the top of the synth interface.

The main synth screen features a symmetrical layout, with an oscillator and associated controls located on each side. Naturally, the oscillator cross-modulation functionality, including FM, AM, as well as phase and ring modulation, lurks in the middle, along with a useful oscilloscope. In addition to the output waveform, the scope can also display the LFOs and envelopes. The LFOs and mixer section also reside in the middle.

The two envelopes sports dual sliders to manage the attack and release, along with a switch to select the envelope trigger, which is useful in a modular environment. Separate switches activate sustain mode for both envelopes. For each oscillator, there are knobs to manage turning as well as select a waveform. Note that most of these controls serve as destinations for modulation sources. We’ll dive into that later.

On the left side of the synth programming screen resides functionality for generating notes used by the sequencer. You are able to set the sources for note and trigger generation as well as an interesting shift function. This little section plays a big role in Shockwave’s cool factor and serves well for building drones and generative sequences.

Delay and reverb effects lie on the right edge of the screen. Both effects sound great, but special attention for the lush reverb algorithm is warranted. It’s one of the reasons Shockwave has such a great sound.

A Deep Sequencer Adds to Shockwave’s Fun Factor

Shockwave’s second main screen contains the sequencer and other utility functions. The robust sequencer operates in either 2×8 or 1×16 modes. Of course, varying the number of steps is possible, leading to those lovable weird time signatures and/or polyrhythms. The note generator section on the first screen works in concert with the sequencer for operation. As noted earlier, it’s a great setup for building generative music.

Shockwave’s versatile sequencer in action. Screenshot by author.

The utility functions give Shockwave a lot of its modular synth flavor. Divider, probability, sample & hold, and a logic section round out this functionality. Anyone familiar with modular synthesis is able to dive right in and explore these features.

However, if you are unfamiliar with the modular world, explore the copious amount of presets included with Shockwave to get some inspiration. The interface is simple enough to support an explorative approach. Using the X-Ray button to see how the controls react in real time helps as well.

Excellent Modulation Support Highlights This Modular Synth

Shockwave’s robust modulation matrix is an essential part of its success as a semi-modular synth. Simply tapping the Route button highlights all controls able to be modulated. Tap on a control and select a source and mod level and boom! It’s that simple.

Tapping the Mod button reveals all current modulations; enabling you to delete or edit them as necessary. This intuitive interface also boosts Shockwave’s fun factor. Once again, dive into the large preset collection to see what’s possible. Jakob Haq’s patches span a wide range of Shockwave’s functionality and are worthy of your interest.

Once again, more everything in Shockwave can be modulated. So creating generative loops and drones is simple. Shockwave’s AUv3 support means it’s easy to use Shockwave in concert with other effects and synths in AUM or other container apps supporting the AUv3 format. It also supports older iOS standards like IAA and Audiobus.

Shockwave even boasts robust MIDI functionality, including support for MPE controllers and deep MIDI out functionality letting you control virtual and hardware synths. In short, this synth plays well with itself and others.

Shockwave Boasts Excellent Sound Quality

All these cool features go for naught if Shockwave sounded like ass. Thankfully, it doesn’t. Its internal Reverb being one of the best on the iOS platform is just one example of the great sound quality within the app. Everything from screeching leads to deep contemplative drones are possible. Again, check out the presets to get an idea for Shockwave’s top notch sonics. In the end, Shockwave holds a unique spot in the world of iOS synths. Other iOS modular synths we reviewed, like miRack, Ripplemaker, and Audulus, have their own strengths. However, Shockwave’s great sound, focused interface design, and modular functionality makes creating unique generative drones and sequences a blast. It definitely ranks as one of the top synths for the iOS platform. Of course, we recommend it!
April 7, 2020
Review: Synclavier Go Fits $200,000 of 80s Synth Power into the iPad
The Synclavier enjoys a status as one of the first synthesizer computer workstations; appearing on too many popular 80s releases to mention. The price for this digital behemoth ran anywhere from $25,000 to $200,000, depending on the configuration. Frank Zappa, Trevor Horn, Eddie Jobson, Tony Banks and so many others used the Synclavier as a major part of their work from that time.

Eventually, the synth became obsolete and production ended in the early 90s, with manufacturer New England Digital closing shop. As an aside, I sent NED my résumé upon graduating from college a few years before their 1993 demise. Sadly, I never heard back.

Ultimately, so many features now commonplace in music technology – hard disk recording, sampling, FM and additive synthesis, and much more – first became practical with the Synclavier. So imagine fitting all that power and functionality into an iOS app? Enter Synclavier Go!

Synclavier Go! for iOS Features
- Emulation of the Synclavier II for the iPad
- Original CSynclavier DSP Engine Supports Partial Timbre, Timbre Frame, FM Synthesis and Additive Synthesis
- Useful Embedded Tutorial
- Timbre Library Includes Over 900 Sounds – Some of Them Very Famous
- 16-Track Multi-timbral Sound
- Control Over Bit Depth and Noise Floor
- Support for Audiobus, Bluetooth MIDI, and Ableton Link
- Available at the App Store for $29.99
Synclavier Go! is a worthy acquisition for any iOS musician simply because of its historical importance. The sound quality is great; not surprising since the app was developed by Cameron Jones, the software engineer for the original. Diving into its rich timbre library reveals many classic 80s tones, but others also stand out in a more modern context.

Let’s dive a bit deeper into this excellent re-imagination of one of the most important synthesizers in music history.

The Massive Synclavier User Interface on the iPad

The Synclavier Go! user interface simulates the original as well as can be expected on the iPad. Essentially you edit one or more parameters using a virtual “uber” knob that works just like the original. There is an even a hardware version of the knob available for $399 for those who want a true tactile experience.

Yes, Synclavier Go! fits nicely on an iPad. Screenshot by author.

A massive number of red buttons are used to select parameters, once again similar to the original. This seems daunting at first, but becomes rewarding after spending significant time with the app. Selecting multiple buttons in one fell finger swipe is simple.

These parameters are grouped in sections, covering the different parts of the Synclavier’s synth architecture. They include FM Synthesis, Additive Synthesis, Timbre and Keyboard Effects, Partial Timbre Design, and more. Another section is used to save and load Timbres.

Many original users simply trusted their ears when programming timbres, as opposed to getting bogged-down in parameter value minutiae. The detailed tutorial embedded within Synclavier Go! provides context when needed. Exploration and empirical analysis remain the key to creating your own timbres.

Beyond that, the interface makes browsing through the timbre library a breeze, with it accessible at the top of the screen, along with other utility functions. Needless to say, Synclavier Go! successfully shrinks the massive UI of the original into the iPad’s footprint. If the complexity of the Synclavier’s synth engine seems daunting, simply select a few red buttons and tweak that big knob. Undoubtedly, the cool sounds will find YOU.

That Classic 80s Synclavier Synthesizer Sound

After perusing through a variety of Synclavier timbres from those classic days of yore, there’s no doubt this iPad app provides an accurate representation of their sound. Remember, the app contains the exact same DSP code as the original machine. Reading through its history, the original designers, including Cameron Jones, wanted the synth to sound analog. Manipulating my own sounds in real time reveals this iOS app hits the mark.

Complex sounds are possible, as each timbre contains up to 12 partial timbres. Each partial sports two oscillators and envelopes, and 24 harmonics. The latter is important as additive synthesis resides at the heart of the Synclavier. FM synthesis comes into play with an FM amount and carrier ratio parameters for each oscillator pair. An unlimited number of frames add an element of motion to each sound.

The app also supports the original’s robust microtuning engine. If this area of synthesis interests you, Synclavier Go! provides an implementation rivaling nearly all other software synthesizers. It’s another aspect of a synth design that rewards those making a deeper dive into its more esoteric functionality.

This iPad Synclavier also supports other modern iOS musician features, like Audiobus, Ableton Link, and Bluetooth MIDI. Check out the free Synclavier Pocket! – also available for the iPhone – to get a better idea of its sound and programming horsepower. It only provides 4 partials per timbre and you need to buy a $4.99 in-app purchase to save your work, but it’s a great way to try before you buy.

At a price of $29.99, Synclavier Go! ranks among the most expensive iOS synth apps at the App Store. Nonetheless, when considering it’s arguably the best FM and additive synth currently available on the platform, recommending the purchase becomes easy. Adding the historical relevance of the synth and its seminal timbre library to the equation simply makes it a no-brainer.

As mentioned in our coverage of NAMM 2019, I considered picking up a Korg Volca Modular or a Volca FM, and decided not to after playing around with Synclavier Go! So there!
June 6, 2019
Review: Ripplemaker brings West Coast Modular Synthesis to iOS
Ripplemaker is the latest iOS music app from Ruismaker and developer, Bram Bos. Essentially a semi-modular synthesizer focused on West Coast techniques, consider Ripplemaker to be the tablet-based cousin of Make Noise’s excellent 0-Coast desktop synth. Suitable for the creation of drones and other sonic atmospheres of doom, this is another excellent product worthy of attention from any iOS musician.

Ripplemaker Features
- Easy to Use Semi-Modular Synth App
- Complex Oscillator, FM, Lowpass Gate, Slope Generator, Maths!
- Virtual Patch Cables Abound
- The Excellent Bram Bos Sequencer
- AU Plugin with a Small Footprint
- Support for Audiobus, Core MIDI, Virtual MIDI, Bluetooth MIDI
- Exports MIDI and Audio Files
- Universal App for both iPad and iPhone
- Available at the App Store for $8.99
If you have any level of interest in modular synthesis, Ripplemaker belongs in your iOS app collection. Its “single screen” interface is easier to grasp than other iOS modular synths. Check it out!

An iOS Modular Synth on One Screen

The fact Ripplemaker easily fits on one screen makes it easier to use than most other iOS modular synth apps, like Audulus and the Moog Model 15 – both of which I love. Empirical experimentation gets rewarded as virtual cables are easily dragged and dropped between patch points. While drones are one of the biggest selling points for Ripplemaker, the excellent Bram Bos sequencer – as seen in Troublemaker and other Ruismaker apps – is also part of the app when used in standalone mode.

Ripplemaker in action on the iPad. Screenshot by author.

Ripplemaker’s screen layout is somewhat reminiscent of the 0-Coast. From left to right are sections labeled Control Signal, Oscillator, Slope, Lowpass Gate, and Envelope, with an LFO and amplifier that also includes a delay. Color-coded jacks make wiring up patches an easier process. You are also able to break the normalized input jacks to build your own interesting sounds, while the normalized outputs are shareable with different inputs. Stack those virtual patch cables!

West Coast Synthesis on iOS

A West Coast synthesizer architecture lies at the heart of Ripplemaker. The basic oscillator is a triangle wave, while a voltage-controlled knob allows morphing into a square wave. Additional waveform complexities are generated using the wavefolder and push controls – the latter adding a DC offset. FM modulation – with multiple options for a modulator – rounds out the synth’s oscillator design.

The versatile slope generator is usable as an AD envelope, LFO, or another oscillator. The envelope is the default setting. Simply tap the “cycle” checkbox to switch it into LFO mode – this is somewhat similar to the 0-Coast. Tapping “keytrack” allows the same CV signal used for the main oscillator to control the slope frequency, with fine tuning allowed by the voltage controlled curve knob. Sonic possibilities abound.

A low pass gate circuit serves as Ripplemaker’s West Coast version of a filter combined with a VCA in the Buchla School way. The “gate:filter” knob emphasizes either the filter or the amplifier, and of course, it’s voltage controlled. The combined noise/sample and hold module only adds to the fun.

A standard ADSR envelope, with two discrete output jacks, adds to Ripplemaker’s architectural flexibility. This module also provides an output jack that sends a pulse when the decay starts. The amplifier and LFO dual module rounds out Ripplemaker’s architecture; a built-in delay helps push your sonic designs over the cliff as necessary.

Can-Utility and the Control Signals

Ripplemaker’s Control Signal module takes incoming MIDI information and converts it into the CV and gate signals used throughout the synth. A separate clock I/O helps keep the synth in sync. The utility section essentially serves as a maths module. It provides inputs, attenuators, and outputs with an add/multiply circuit used to blend both inputs – either a CV or an audio signal. It’s definitely useful.

Unlike Troublemaker, Ripplemaker allows for the saving of patches, albeit without Save As/Overwrite functionality. Granted, since it is an AU plugin many users take advantage of their iOS container app’s state saving functionality when designing patches. I primarily use iOS synths in standalone mode through a bunch of outboard effects before the audio ends up in ProTools, so in-app patch saving is helpful.

If you are interested in exploring West Coast modular synthesis without investing hundreds of dollars in hardware, Ripplemaker serves as a perfect introduction. With a simple and intuitive interface that rewards experimentation, it is a powerful and flexible synth without the complexity of other iOS modular synthesizers.

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July 26, 2017
Review: VirSyn’s Cube Synth makes Additive Synthesis a Breeze
Over the last year or so, I’ve been focused on recording the new Church of Hed album, Electric Sepulcher, with hardware synths typically being my gear of choice compared to the venerable iPad 2. As such, I am about a year late with this profile of VirSyn’s excellent Cube Synth, which brings the esoteric world of additive synthesis within a finger swipe of any iPad owner. Users of other VirSyn iOS apps should feel right at home with the familiar interface.

Cube Synth for the iPad Features
- Easy to Program Additive Synth Engine
- Four Morphable Sound Sources in Each Patch
- Up to 512 Partials per Voice
- 8 Voices either Monophonic or Polyphonic
- 400 Factory Presets featuring a Wide Array of Sounds
- Harmonic/Inharmonic/Noise Spectra
- Morphable Filters and Tempo Synced Envelopes
- VirSyn’s Powerful Arpeggiator and Six Effects
- Support for Audiobus 2, Inter-App Audio, Core MIDI, Virtual MIDI
- iOS version 5.1 and greater
- Available at the iTunes App Store for $11.99
Cube Synth’s powerful and intuitive controls make it easy to create new additive patches or modify the well-designed factory set. If additive synthesis always seemed too daunting, a few hours with this app will change your mind.

Additive Synthesis at the Touch of a Finger

In a sentence, additive synthesis creates sounds by mixing together any number of sine wave harmonics — known as partials. This allows for a wide range of sonic possibilities, but the difficulty in programming hundreds of individual sine waves for one patch made this form of synthesis less popular than its subtractive cousin. I own one hardware additive synth — the Kawai K5000W — and programming it can be tedious yet ultimately rewarding.

Cube Synth features a clear user interface with excellent use of the iPad’s touch gestures.

Cube Synth leverages the iPad’s touchscreen to make additive synthesis a relative breeze. A simple finger swipe is used to set the level for multiple partials and to control morphing filters and envelopes. Controlling the morphing with an envelope gives a patch the sense of motion typical of this form of synthesis.

Each patch uses four different sound sources; while another touch controlled 2D section located in the middle of the main interface screen lets you morph between these sound sources with your finger. Cube Synth also lets you use two dedicated envelopes for the X and Y axes. A global brightness control offers additional tweaking possibilities.

Tapping the label for one of the four sound sources (labeled from A to D) brings up another screen to manage that source’s partials as mentioned earlier. Other tabs on this pop-up screen allow easy touch programming of each partial group’s pan position, attack, decay, filter, and noise. Deep additive synthesis with a finger swipe! Boom!

You can edit a source’s partial set with a simple finger swipe.

A tools dialog provides the ability to copy and paste partial groups as well as load new ones from a collection covering vocal, natural, analog, and special sources.

Another User Friendly VirSyn Mobile App

You are able to program envelopes (volume and the X and Y sound source morphing mentioned above) in one of Cube Synth’s other screens accessible from the menu at the top of the interface. Once again, finger taps and swipes offer a wide range of easy control. This screen also allows you to pair modulation sources with the brightness, volume, and envelope time parameters and set the number of voices, portamento, and keyboard tracking for a patch.

Loading presets and saving your own patches is simple; accomplished by tapping on the patch name at the top of the screen. You are also able to make sound recordings and use AudioCopy, SoundCloud, or iTunes file sharing to share audio files. The latter works for sharing patches as well.

Cube Synth includes the excellent VirSyn arpeggiator/sequencer also found in their miniTera app. Creating weird time signatures is a breeze — a big plus in my book! Each patch saves its own arpeggiation, plus you can share separately between patches. Tap on the dice to create a random arpeggiation.

Weirdo time signatures are a breeze with Cube’s Synth’s arpeggiator/sequencer.

Six effects — EQ, phaser, delay, overdrive, ensemble, chorus, and reverb — round out Cube Synth’s robust synth engine.

Cube Synth features six effects.

If you are an iPad owner interested in additive synthesis, Cube Synth needs to be in your app collection. If offers a user friendly path into this rewarding form of sound creation. Recommended!

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October 23, 2015