Concatenator

In this video, I introduce Concatenator by DataMind Audio, a unique granular audio effect. The twist with this effect is that instead of creating grains from your synthesizer or microphone, it uses different samples stored on your hard drive. The Concatenator attempts to match these samples to your input signal, adjusting things like pitch and dynamics to make the samples fit the sound you're working with.

Key Points:

• Granular Audio Effect:

  • Concatenator is a granular audio effect that uses samples from your hard drive rather than the usual input signals like synthesizers or microphones.

  • It attempts to match the samples to your input signal using a smart algorithm (not AI, but a clever matching process).

• Functionality:

  • You can load random samples into the plugin, and it will replace parts of your input signal with appropriate grains from those samples.

  • Grain controls allow you to adjust the grain length, variation, and stickiness (how often consecutive slices of audio are chosen).

• Pitch and Dynamics Matching:

  • The Concatenator tries to match the pitch and dynamics of the input signal to the samples, making it sound like the samples are a seamless part of the original sound.

  • Spec white and amp white settings adjust the sample's overtones and dynamics to match the input signal's changes.

• Use Cases:

  • Works well for creating ambient sounds, drones, or adding textures to bass sounds.

  • Can also be used for Foley effects or to create unique textures for music or sound design.

  • You can load full songs or household samples to experiment and generate new textures.

• Comparison to Other Granular Effects:

  • Unlike traditional granular effects like Portal, which manipulate the input signal directly, Concatenator uses pre-existing samples to replace parts of the input.

  • Portal takes grains from the input and plays them back differently, while Concatenator matches and replaces grains with samples from your library.

• Trial Version Available:

  • Concatenator is priced at 149€/$ but offers a 7-day free trial so you can try it out and see if it's suitable for your needs.

• Experimentation with Samples:

  • You can load any sample (including complete songs, or even Foley sounds) into the Concatenator and experiment with the matching process to create interesting textures or ambient effects.

• Overall Impression:

  • It’s a great concept that does something different in the realm of granular audio effects. Although it might be considered expensive for some, its ability to match the input signal with pre-existing samples makes it stand out from other granular processors.

Takeaway:

Concatenator is an innovative granular audio effect that can be used to experiment with samples and create unique textures, ambient sounds, and Foley effects. Its pitch and dynamic matching features make it a powerful tool for sound design, offering a creative way to add depth and interest to your music. Try out the free trial to see if it fits your creative needs.

Website (7day trial): https://bit.ly/42JBOsi