Pro Music Apps

This unique sound maker looks like it could be a nice addition to your arsenal of sound making apps!

Strange Attractor is a truly novel sound generator based on chaos theory.

The outcome of PhD research, it uses a feedback system to process and generate sound.

Unlike conventional synthesis techniques, sounds emerge in surprising and unexpected ways, almost having a life of their own.

By moving your finger on the screen, you can navigate through a space of evolving sounds, that build-up, pulsate, and decay.

Sound input through the microphone or headphone socket can be processed into fractal textures, or will trigger and control oscillations.

Strange Attractor
Developer: Jonathan Mackenzie

Rated: 4+

Price: $2.99 Download Here

One of this year’s most anticipated apps for the music making world is Wave Machine Labs’ Auria, with its traditional looking user interface, 64-bit architecture, 48 audio tracks, VST effects, and much more.

Chris Miller from WaveMachine Labs was kind enough to answer a few of my questions on this very promising looking iPad app.

 

What was the inspiration/motivation behind developing Auria?

The mobile recording community was in need of a professional-grade recording app.

 

How long has Auria been in development for? And how many are on the team that worked on it?

Auria has been in development for a year, done mostly by our President, Rim, and with lots of contributions from the PSP team.

 

Auria’s UI looks more like a traditional DAW system than any other iPad multitrack apps before it, what was the thinking behind taking this approach?

Auria is meant to be a serious, professional app. We tried to recreate as close to a fully functional DAW on the iPad as we could.

 

Multitrack recording is obviously dependant on the audio interface available to users. Which model(s) have you had the best success with?

A list of tested and compatible interfaces is available at our website, auriaapp.com.

 

The specs state it’s possible to record up to 24 tracks at once. What hardware have you been able to do this with?

So far, the most we’ve gotten to record at once is 18 (limited by the interface), but the software supports more.

 

Why hasn’t VST been done in DAW apps for iPad until now? Was this particularly tricky to implement?

It wasn’t particularly tricky; it just feels that the requirement that all code be pre-loaded (and therefore not technically plugins in the sense that they’re not cross-platform) onto an Apple app has disenfranchised Plugin developers to developing version for the iOS platform.

 

What sort of limitations (if any) are there on the number of effects plug-ins and mix bus routing you can do per track?

Plugins add a few percentages of CPU each, but with the ability to freeze tracks, the effects can be printed and the plugins removed to free up processing power.

 

How many plug-ins will ship with Auria, and can you provide details on the plans to offer more in the future as in-app purchases?

Auria will ship with a handful of plugins built in, and there will be 10-20 available for in-app purchase. We will certainly add more with future updates.

 

Will Auria offer support for virtual instruments?

There will not be any MIDI or VSTi support in the first release.

 

I’m guessing there’s a good chance we’ll be seeing a version of Drumagog available at some stage, yes?

Drumagog will be available as an in-app purchase.

 

Are there any differences between the existing PSP plug-ins and the versions available in Auria?

There are slight differences, mostly to make them simpler and more efficient for the iPad.

 

What sort of compatibility is possible between Auria and external DAW software?

Auria supports full AAF Import/Export, so session data can be exchanged between Auria and virtually every major DAW.

 

For people who work with other iPad music apps, what type of support does Auria offer? AudioPaste? External syncing? WIST (Wireless Sync-Start Technology)?

Auria supports AudioPaste.

 

There looks to be a comprehensive list of audio editing options. Will you be able to scrub back and forth over single and multiple tracks of audio?

Scrubbing is not an option in this release.

 

Is the rendering of stereo mix downs done in real time, or faster?

Faster than real time.

 

Have you noticed any performance differences in running Auria on iPad 1 and iPad2?

The iPad 1 has been limited to 24 tracks, but other than that it’s pretty similar.

 

Is Auria Optimised for the new iPad?

Auria will run the same on the new iPad.

 

Wave Machine Labs Auria still doesn’t have a confirmed launch date. When it was first announced, it was expected to arrive in the first quarter of this year, which expires this weekend, so we should be expecting to see it appear in the very near future. For the latest on Wave Machine Labs Auria, head to the official site - auriaapp.com

 

There’s certainly no shortage of powerful, programmable synth apps for iOS these days, but this stylish new one offers a unique take on the user interface with four ways to play it. At 99 cents, you can’t really go wrong, so check it out.

SpaceLab is a monophonic synthesizer. It has four ways to play: keyboard, graph, guitar, and wind controller.

Underneath those interfaces is a fully programmable subtractive synth with oscillators, filters, envelopes, effects, FM, presets, an arpeggiator, full MIDI control, and much more!

 

 

 

Alesis has done it again. The company has developed another IO dock for the iPad, this time with the focus on tactile mixing thanks to the inclusion of a 4 channel mixer. Read on for a full run down.

The Alesis iO Mix is the first device that turns your iPad into a powerful portable studio, allowing you to record multiple mics or instruments directly into GarageBand or any other compatible Core Audio app.

With the iO Dock, Alesis was the first to make your iPad studio-compatible. Now with the iO Mix, your iPad becomes your studio. All the connections you need are onboard, including four combo XLR-1/4″ input channels and balanced, stereo 1/4″ outputs. The iO Mix also has a video output, making it perfect for everything from presentations and corporate meetings to home entertainment and live performance visuals.

ROOM FOR FOUR 
With the iO Mix’s four-channel capability you finally have everything you need for mixing and recording on your iPad, all in one device. There’s no more clunky dongle connections or USB cables needed. Your iPad is seamlessly integrated into a compact mixing console that will be immediately familiar and easy to use. When you close iO Mix’s hinged door, your iPad is completely enclosed and secure — you’ll hardly be able to tell that they’re separate devices.

CONNECT & CREATE
iO Mix allows you to connect virtually any piece of recording gear to your iPad: microphones, instruments, speakers, headphones and more. Four combo XLR-1/4″ input channels are exactly where you need them on the rear of the unit. Each has trim, channel gain, pan, and low & high EQ controls located right in front of you. Push-button High Pass Filters are also available on each channel to eliminate low-frequency interference in live mixing and recording situations.

STUDIO TO GO
With its compact design, iO Mix is the perfect portable studio. Bring it to your band’s practice space, coffeehouse gig or weekend recording session. Switchable 48V phantom power allows you to use studio condenser microphones and iO Mix’s guitar-direct switch makes guitar recording easy. You don’t even need an amp! Simply connect your guitar or bass, flip the switch and use your iPad to add effects like reverb and delay. Balanced, stereo 1/4″ outputs and 1/4″ headphone output are also onboard along with a switchable limiter for clip-free recordings.

WIRELESS WHENEVER
iO Mix is Core Audio-compliant, allowing you to use it with virtually any app in the App Store. Plus, your iPad’s WiFi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, and 3G connectivity, allow you to tailor your sound at a moment’s notice or playback audio through compatible wireless speakers. Download new effects or filters to deal with unexpected live sound needs, or download songs, videos or entirely new applications to keep your audience entertained during a gig or the band’s creative energy flowing during a recording session.

VIDEO VERSATILITY
Along with its four-channel mixing and recording capability, the iO Mix’ s ability to playback video makes it ideal for applications that were previously impossible. You can use the iO Mix to not only mix and record, but also playback live performance visuals behind the band. The iO Mix is also great for corporate presentations and business meetings, allowing up to four speakers to be mic’d and have video playing back simultaneously. With the optional Alesis Module Mount, you can attach the iO Mix to a nearby mic stand and have easy access to instantly adjust any mixing, recording or video-playback parameter.

Turn your iPad into a portable mixer and flexible recording studio, with the iO Mix, only from Alesis.

For more details - http://www.alesis.com/iomix

Addictive Synth for iPad has just received a host of added features, including an exciting new spectral noise generator. Read on for a run down on this update.

The new spectral noise generator adds a new dimension to the already huge sound universe of Addictive Synth. This generator is the first of its kind and allows for extraordinarily detailed control over the dynamic spectrum of the noisy part of sounds. Despite its complexity it’s pretty easy to use and integrates naturally into the sound design philosophy of Addictive Synth.

With the integration of a hi end reverb we closed the last gap to get fully addicted.

One more thing…

…the revised GUI is now compatible to the retina display of the new iPad !

It was never so easy to create beautiful sounds and driving loops. The unique dynamic wavetable synthesis allows you to explore an unprecedented wide range of sonic territory. From acid loops, crystal clear percussions, realistic human choirs to complex musical sound scapes nothing seems impossible with only a handful parameters to tweak.

New in version 2

Spectral noise generator with dynamic filter structure.
Hi end reverberation unit.
revised GUI with retina support for new iPads
32 new sound presets.
Many MIDI controllers added.
revised PDF Manual.

PreSonus™ has announced StudioLive™ Remote 1818VSL software, a free, dedicated wireless-control app for the PreSonus AudioBox™ 1818VSL audio/MIDI interface.

The AudioBox 1818VSL USB 2.0 interface’s 26 x 18 mixing and processing features are controlled by AudioBox VSL software for Mac® and Windows®. It provides a computer-based ultra-low-latency mixer with two stereo effects buses for reverb and delay plus theFat Channel processing from the StudioLive 16.0.2. The Fat Channel includes a compressor, limiter, downward expander, high-pass filter, and 3-band semi-parametric EQ that are available on every input, DAW return, and bus.

Now, with StudioLive Remote 1818VSL, you can control all features of AudioBox VSL software (except Solo and Channel Link) wirelessly from an iPad. The new app provides multiple views of the key AudioBox VSL mixer and processing controls. The Overview displays the most-used parameters, such as channel levels, mutes, panning, EQ curves, and more for multiple channels at once. Tap a microview to zoom in on the Fat Channel processing, then navigate between the processors with the flick of a fingertip.

“Because the AudioBox 1818VSL has a built-in 26 x 18 mixer, it can be seriously considered as a live mixer for small groups,” notes PreSonus CEO Jim Mack. “StudioLive Remote 1818VSL iPad control makes this even more convenient.”

An AudioBox 1818VSL firmware update will be required in order to use StudioLive Remote 1818VSL. Registered owners will be able to download this update at www.presonus.com/technical-support/downloads/drivers-software.

StudioLive Remote 1818VSL is expected to be available in the second quarter of 2012 and will be a free download from the Apple App Store.

For more information, please visit www.presonus.com.

Sonoma Wire Works has just made life easier for those who use both their recording app, and virtual guitar amp app, by incorporating them in the one app! StudioTrack Multitrack Recording iPad App Adds GuitarTone Amps and Effects, a Tuner, and GuitarJack Controls for High Quality Sound, Stereo Recording, and Simultaneous Instrument and Voice Recording.

Here’s what’s new in the latest update to StudioTrack -

• GuitarTone Amps & Effects: Interpretations of essential vintage and custom amps and pedals. GuitarTone includes three free amps (’60 Slant, Custom and Tweed Blues) and three free effects (UltraPhase, Drive+ and Va-Room), with additional tones available for $9.99 per 12-pack. Amp and effect packs purchased in the GuitarTone app are activated in FourTrack and StudioTrack. GuitarJack activates $19.98 worth of GuitarTone amps and effects while connected.

• Free High Visibility Tuner: Fast, accurate tuning

• GuitarJack Control Panel – Adjust input settings of Sonoma’s GuitarJack high quality audio I/O interface for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. Select 1/4-inch line in, stereo 1/8-inch line in, or use both inputs simultaneously to record onto two tracks at once. GuitarJack’s 1/8-inch stereo line/headphone output offers increased drive for headphones. GuitarJack features Lo-Z and Hi-Z modes, 60 dB of continuous level control, a 12 dB pad for 72 dB of adjustment and a 24-bit AD/DA converter.

A full run down on StudioTrack can be found here - http://www.sonomawireworks.com/iphone/studiotrack/

A full run down on GuitarTone can be found here -  http://www.sonomawireworks.com/iphone/guitartone/

Following up last month’s SYNTH ESSENTIALS for NLogSynth PRO and NLogPoly Synth, app-sound.com has released another fresh collection of patches, this time for the popular universal music app, NanoStudio by Blip Interactive.

SYNTH GARDEN is a sound collection for Eden Synth of NanoStudio (iOS/PC/Mac). All 128 patches are designed by Matthias Sauer who uses the full creative synthesis power of Eden for creating popular sounds.

Special midi phrases can imported into the sequencer. All the new presets and phrases give you many new ideas for making music with NanoStudio. SYNTH GARDEN covers many styles – from vintage sounds to current pop and electronic music.

Synth lovers will enjoy the rhythmical modulation by the LFOs, the classic osc waveforms, ring modulation as well as oscillator-sync. It’s a great mix of sounds: deep and evolving pads, tight basses, many beautiful synth comp and gater sounds. One of the specials is a copy of the thereminvox – one of the earliest electronic musical instruments. And yes,
take advantage of the xy pad for modulating all the patches of SYNTH GARDEN.

• 128 presets for Eden Synth
• 32 midi phrases
• bonus: 20 drumloops (aiff/wav) (early bird deal till 31th march 2012)

For more details, head to http://www.app-sound.com/

Demo of Synth Garden patches – Part #1

Demo of Synth Garden patches – Part #2

NanoStudio
Developer: Blip Interactive Ltd

Rated: 4+

Price: $14.99 Download Here

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Bit of a quiet week on the shiny new music apps front, though here’s details on the latest update to one of the early multitrack recording apps for iPad from Sound Trends. It’s by no means massive overhaul, but the new features are welcomed additions.

studio.HD v.1.7 now offers:

- 24 DISCRETE AUDIO TRACKS, each with automated mixing and FX
- EMAIL MIXDOWNS or PROJECT ARCHIVES
- EXPORT of MIXDOWNS or PROJECT ARCHIVES to “another app”

So now it’s easy to bring your mix into another app like Twisted Wave for further editing, or to use Dropbox for archiving your mixes and Projects to “the Cloud”!

And of course we also added SoundCloud support in the last release, so of course you can get your tracks to Facebook.

Into DJing? Own Native Instruments Traktor? Even if you don’t but you DO have something you’d like to control wirelessly via MIDI, then you’ll love this debut app from Maago….

4×4 Maago Virtual App has been designed to wireless control Native Instruments Traktor™ or any other application or device that supports the MIDI protocol through a wireless connection directly from your iPad.

The App lets you control the four decks of Traktor™, the Effects and all the Browsing feature of the software.

All you need to do is download the TSI file for Traktor™ from the Maago website and install it.
Then connect the App via wireless Midi and you’re ready to play!

More info and details on the Maago website.

 

 

 

 

 

4x4 Virtual
Developer: Marzio Arico

Rated: 4+

Price: $16.99 Download Here