Free music software round-up: Week 110
A desktop conversion of an iPad synth; an effect that used to be chargeable but is now free; and a vinyl emulation that can crackle up your sound. That's how things are shaking up in the world of free music software this week.
If you've got a new free music software release, make sure you let us know about it by emailing musicradar.pressreleases@futurenet.com with all the details.
Plastaq Software Scythe
Platform/format: PC, Mac/VST Download
It's slightly unusual to see an iPad app being brought to the desktop, but that's pretty much what's happened here. Scythe is a synth that borrows its engine and interface from GrainBender. Its oscillators sport analogue and digital waveforms, while there are also modulation options and effects.
Sinevibes Oscillator
Platform/format: Mac/AU Download
This 'audio-controlled synth' (though strictly speaking it's an effect) is now free. The plug-in is based on a multi-waveform oscillator with up to six voices, with the parameters being modulated with the input signal's dynamics. There are effects, too, the end result being a device that can help you to produce all kinds of glitches and noises.
Tonebytes Vinyl
Platform/format: PC/VST Download
Get the MusicRadar Newsletter
Want all the hottest music and gear news, reviews, deals, features and more, direct to your inbox? Sign up here.
Give your music a bit of crackle with this vinyl record player emulation. You can adjust the dust count, colour and level, set how much you want to 'age' the recording and dial in a bit of gentle distortion.
I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it.
"You simply do not need thousands of pounds of high-end gear and a top-end studio to create a great track": 8 mixing and mastering techniques every bedroom producer should know
“I almost think of it as audio archaeology”: Universal Audio CEO Bill Putnam Jr on the brand’s decades-long quest to capture the spirit of classic studio gear in software