Created by independent developer Ian Johnston under the name of Ijo Audio, Grain Storm is a Max for Live Device that blends granular synthesis techniques with a range of innovative features designed push creative boundaries.
The developer says that the Device has been created with the aim of encouraging sonic exploration, and in addition to its granular capabilities, it comes equipped with a ‘freezable’ reverb that makes quick work of generating ambient soundscapes. There’s also a Magic panel, a multi-effects section that brings together a collection of seven processors that each benefit from unique reactions to the panel’s Magic Amount control.
“I’ve long wanted to explore granular audio processing, and with Grain Storm, I’ve injected my own vibe into a field full of tried and true techniques. This device not only scrubs through audio at a wide range of speeds — ideal for creating PaulXStretch-like ambient textures — but also transforms granular drones into percussive elements using a unique trio of controls: Decay, Ramp, and S&H.” - Ian Johnston
Key Features
- Dynamic Playback Control: Automate playback speeds to extreme values using the innovative Move dial.
- Granular Mastery: Enjoy full control with standard granular parameters such as Size, Density and Spray.
- Expressive Modulation: Adjust pitch over a wide range from -24 to +24 semitones, with Spread and Jitter controls that add subtle or dramatic variations.
- Sonic Smoothing: A one-pole filter helps smooth out harsh grains for a more refined sound.
- Dreamy Reverb: A single-knob reverb complete with a Freeze function transforms any audio into a lush atmospheric experience.
- The Magic Panel: Experience seven artisanal effects — from chorus and aggressive tremolo to Haas widening, glitchy phased delay and stuttering vibrato — all uniquely crafted to react to the Magic Amount dial. This panel serves as an inspirational multi-effects section that takes your sound design into entirely new territories.
- Stereo Widening: Enhance your spatial sound design with built-in stereo widening.
Take a look at the video below to see and hear Grain Storm in action.
There’s More!
Although this is the first of their releases that we’ve covered, Ijo Audio have already built up a significant collection of Max for Live devices that have been met with praise from the Ableton community. In addition to Grain Storm, the company’s line-up includes no fewer than 12 other devices that deliver an array of features and functions.
There’s Meridian (pictured above), a Euclidean sequencer with some interesting generative controls; Polycrush 16 (pictured below), a polyphonic synth inspired by the 8-bit sounds of retro video game systems; Plume and Pummel, which offer two alternative takes on FM synthesis; ChopChop, a Device dedicated to creating rhythmic breaks and loops; and more!
To find out more about Ijo Audio and take a look at the current selection of Max for Live Devices, check out the links below.
