Free music software round-up: Week 31

Free music software round-up 31

Free music software round-up 31

It won't surprise you to learn that there's a new synth for you to download this week, and there's a second instrument in the shape of a virtual Mellotron. Those who are more experimental in nature can satisfy themselves with a virtual circuit-bending solution.

Effects, meanwhile, are covered by a filter and a compressor.

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.

Brainwork bx_cleansweep

Brainwork bx_cleansweep

Brainwork bx_cleansweep

Platform/format: PC, Mac/VST, AU, RTAS Download

Featuring the fabulously named Anti Crush Technology, this freebie from Brainworx is a high-pass/low-pass filter that its creators say should be the first plug-in in every mix channel. "This way you can filter out any unwanted hi-end and lo-end, and the result is a clean and tight mix," says the developer.

7air productions depthcharge

7air productions depthcharge

7Air Productions DepthCharge

Platform/format: PC/VST Download

Designed specifically for tracking (but also said to be useful in the master bus chain), this compressor has analogue-style VU meters and, most importantly, a dimpled metal background. Its creator says it'll deal with most material comfortably, but that it's particularly adept when handling drums, guitar and vocals.

Artifake_Labs redtron_400

Artifake_Labs redtron_400

Artifake_Labs RedTron_400

Platform/format: PC/VST Download

Another Mellotron emulation from Artifake_Labs, this one is based on the 400 model. It has six sound types (violins, choir, flute, brass, string section and cello) and what's described as a "realistic user interface". RedTron_400 can also be used as a SoundFont player.

ToneBytes bend box

ToneBytes bend box

ToneBytes Bend Box

Platform/format: PC/VST Download

If you like the idea of circuit-bending but aren't so keen on messing around with wires and solder, Bend Box could be for you. Said to be capable of creating a wide range of different noises ("from soft gurgling to ringing grinding, or even strange melodic timbres") it's MIDI controllable and automatable.

Lucas xie gank

Lucas xie gank

Lucas Xie ganK

Platform/format: PC/VST Download

This synth is said to be both additive and subtractive, and features three oscillators, a Moog-style filter, an LFO and effects (including an 8-band EQ and a delay). There's not much more to say, really, so we'll leave the final words to Lucas himself: "Have fun".

Ben Rogerson
Deputy Editor

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.