Tuesday, September 12, 2023

NoInputMixer - Feedback-based instrument

NoInputMixer is an experimental feedback-based musical instrument that models an analog mixing console, designed to create a wide range of amazing, otherworldly electronic sounds by feeding the mixer's output back to its input.

>>> Get this app on App Store
Universal app for iOS and macOS (AUv3)

By using this technique in the creative process, the sound designer can explore many different and special ways to create sound. Unsettling soundscapes perfect for sci-fi, dystopian and horror projects, like strange noises, disrupted signals, broken communication, buzzing drones, faulty machinery, futuristic tech sounds, and glitchy elements are some results of the No-Input Mixing technique.

The downside of this technique, which can scare off beginners, is extreme unpredictability and instability, when the movement of any knob on the mixer can dramatically change the sound in the most unexpected way. But at the same time, this discover an endless space of experimentation and inspiration when creating new and unique sounds or live performance.

NoInputMixer consists of a seven-channel mixer and an effects rack with eight slots. Each effect slot can be configured as an insert effect for a mixer channel or used with two send/return buses. Effects has an option for hi-res or lo-fi sound processing. Each mixer channel has its own algorithmic generator of different types of noise, which can be added to the feedback signal or used separately. The input selector switches between multiple points in the signal path to make different types of feedback loops or can be switched to an external input for any channel to use it as an effect processor.

Also this application provides several additional options not found in usual mixers, such as preamp tube type and mode selection, op-amp type selection, adjustment of overload protection circuit, and other features that greatly expand the possibilities for experimenting with sound. The user interface can be presented in the form of a classic mixer, or in the form of complete control of a single channel.






Block diagram of the internal structure

This diagram shows all application modules and their connection. With this diagram, you can better understand the purpose of each control and how they can affect the signal.

The diagram shows one channel. All channels are identical. Signal flow in the channel passes from left to right, to the internal mixer buses (blue vertical lines). The feedback path is shown as red lines at the top.Using the group feedback path, you can build complex structures where several channels interact together in one feedback loop. The main element that defines the type of feedback loop is the input selector.

Click on image to enlarge

Quick reference

Click on image to enlarge



NoInputMixer is a universal application for iOS and macOS. It can work on iPhone and iPad as well as Mac / MacBook with M1 chip (and later). NoInputMixer works on iPhone and iPad standalone, as an Audio Unit or Inter-App Audio module, and supports Audiobus and Ableton Link. On MacOS, NoInputMixer can works both as a standalone application and as an Audio unit (AUv3) with DAWs and other hosts that support AUv3 plugins. All application features are available on iOS and macOS, including MIDI support (with a MIDI learn option) and audio unit parameters. NoInputMixer has a built-in detailed description of all parameters also available as PDF file on the application site.



>>> Complete description of NoInputMixer 1.0 (pdf)

Demos and reviews:

No Input Mixer - Detailed Spoken Walkthrough (Gavinski's Tutorials)

No Input Mixer - Setting Up & Getting Started - Tutorial for the iPad (The Sound Test Room)

NoInputMixer: Orientation! Excellent overview with technical details of the app (Mark Hurst)

NoInputMixer - Tutorial 1: Getting Started (SoundForMore Tutorials)

NoInputMixer - Tutorial 2: Internal Workflow (SoundForMore Tutorials)

NoInputMixer - Tutorial 3: Mixing Console for Reverb and Effects (SoundForMore Tutorials)

Experimental Feedback Looping with NoInputMixer on iOS (Jade Starr - How To App on iOS!)

NoInputMixer: My 1st made-from-scratch captioned jam! (Gavinski's Tutorials)

NoInputMixer - Feedback-based instrument for iOS (e y l v y)



This is a great addition to the NoInputMixer with glitchy rhythmic patterns:

GlitchScaper - Rhythm & Glitch machine >> App Store

GlitchScaper (iOS/Mac/AudioUnit) is a rhythm machine with six sound generators, each controlled by a two-layer cycle sequencer, designed to easily create glitchy patterns and scapes. >>> More about this app





Wednesday, August 30, 2023

NoInputMixer (iOS/Mac/Audio unit) - Some details

No-Input Mixing is an experimental technique for creating a wide range of amazing, otherworldly electronic sounds by feeding the mixer output back to the input, thereby making a feedback loop. NoInputMixer models an analog mixing console and effects rack in detail, providing the ability to make a huge number of feedback configurations with additional effects.

How does it work?

This text is taken from the descriptions of working with real mixers, but it is fully consistent with how this application works. In working with this application, you can rely on tutorials and demo videos that show real devices. The principles of operation and the result will be very similar, with the addition that this application offers much more options for creating patches and using effects.

There are two elements which allow no-input mixing to work. Firstly, we rely on noise, which is inherent in all audio equipment, to create feedback loops. Any audio equipment will generate noise due to the nature of its internal circuits and components, and that is what we need. We are taking advantage of the noise to make sounds which can be used creatively!

Secondly, we take advantage of mixer amplifiers. These amplifiers are designed to make weak signals stronger.

By taking this noise from the output of the mixer and feeding it back to the input and through amplifiers inside the mixer, we can amplify the noise, which is then output back into itself, amplified again, and so on.

While a single output into an input brings instant results, it is when multiple outputs and inputs are connected that the fun really begins. By adding effects to the signal chain between output and input, we can change the tones that are amplified and looped. This opens up endless possibilities for creating different sounds and experiment for as long as you wish to.






NoInputMixer consists of a seven-channel mixer and an effects rack with eight slots. Each effect slot can be configured as an insert effect for a mixer channel or used with two send/return buses. Effects has an option for hi-res or lo-fi sound processing. Each mixer channel has its own algorithmic generator of different types of noise, which can be added to the feedback signal or used separately. The input selector switches between multiple points in the signal path to create different types of feedback loops or can be switched to an external input for any channel to use it as an effect processor.

Also this application provides several additional options not found in usual mixers, such as preamp tube type and mode selection, op-amp type selection, adjustment of overload protection circuit, and other features that greatly expand the possibilities for experimenting with sound. The user interface can be presented in the form of a classic mixer, or in the form of complete control of a single channel.

This diagram shows all application modules and their connection. With this diagram, you can better understand the purpose of each control and how they can affect the signal.


The diagram shows one channel. All channels are identical. Signal flow in the channel passes from left to right, to the internal mixer buses (blue vertical lines). The feedback path is shown as red lines at the top. Using the group feedback path, you can build complex structures where several channels interact together in one feedback loop. The main element that defines the type of feedback loop is the input selector.



Need space ambient in your mix? Try this:

SpaceFields - Space Ambient Machine >> App Store

SpaceFields (iOS, macOS, AUv3) is a mangler effect for creating slowly changing rhythmic sound structures in a deep reverb space from any external signal. Great for experimenting and designing ambient and noise backgrounds with rhythmic elements. >>> More about this app

Saturday, August 26, 2023

Mixer? NoInputMixer!

This is the very early preview of the upcoming application NoInputMixer (iOS/Mac/Audio unit).

No-Input Mixing is an experimental technique for creating a wide range of amazing, otherworldly electronic sounds by feeding the mixer output back to the input, thereby making a feedback loop. This application models an analog mixing console and effects rack in detail, providing the ability to make a huge number of feedback configurations with additional effects.

>>> More about the No-Input Mixing technique






NoInputMixer consists of a seven-channel mixer and an effects rack with eight slots. Each effect slot can be configured as an insert effect for a mixer channel or used with two send/return buses. Effects has an option for hi-res or lo-fi sound processing. Each mixer channel has its own algorithmic generator of different types of noise, which can be added to the feedback signal or used separately. The input selector switches between multiple points in the signal path to create different types of feedback loops or can be switched to an external input for any channel to use it as an effect processor.

Also this application provides several additional options not found in usual mixers, such as preamp tube type and mode selection, op-amp type selection, adjustment of overload protection circuit, and other features that greatly expand the possibilities for experimenting with sound. The user interface can be presented in the form of a classic mixer, or in the form of complete control of a single channel.

NoInputMixer is designed as a feedback instrument / synth. But also great for use as multi-channel noise generator with effects, or even as lofi / glitch effect processor for standalone use or as an audio unit.

The release is scheduled for early September. Later there will be more pre-release demos and technical details with an internal circuit block diagram.



Want to experiment with sound right now? Look at this application:

GlitchScaper - Rhythm & Glitch machine >> App Store

GlitchScaper (iOS, macOS, AUv3) is a rhythm machine with six sound generators, each controlled by a two-layer cycle sequencer, designed to easily create glitchy patterns and scapes. >>> More about this app

Wednesday, August 9, 2023

VintageRack (iOS/Mac) updated to version 1.4

Due to an unfortunate bug in the previous version, the bit depth / sampling rate switching option for effect modules stopped working. Now everything is fixed! You can switch the sound processing resolution for individual effects and for the entire rack.

This feature models the sound processing from today's high-end studio gears to early digital devices with limited resolution, but still very atmospheric sound which is the result of combining analog filters and companders with digital circuits.

Also this version works great with Logic Pro on iPad and Mac.

VintageRack - Easy LoFi Vintage Vibe Effects >> App Store

VintageRack (iOS/Mac/AudioUnit) is a minimalistic and convenient multi-effect application that contains modules realistically model notable retro gear from the early digital age with their natural lo-fi and warm aesthetics. Most of the effects in this application have been inspired and based on the principles of actual hardware from the 70s and 80s, which is great for giving the sound of any instrument the nostalgic and emotional mood of old recordings.

>>> More about VintageRack



VintageRack app process pad sound from Quasimidi Sirius synth. Dry/Wet demo.


Quick demo of Quasimidi Sirius synth patterns processed by VintageRack app, with noisy background generated by GlitchScaper app. Apps works as audio units in AUM host.







Thursday, August 3, 2023

Classic FX now universal app for iOS and Mac

This update makes Classic FX a universal iOS and macOS application.

>>> Get this app on App Store

Classic FX is a complete sound effects processor and a mono-to-stereo enhancer with equalizer, effects and reverb, based on specially designed high-quality processing algorithms and suitable for any kind of audio sources. >>> More about this app

Now Classic FX can works on iPhone and iPad as well as Mac / MacBook with M1 chip (and later). On macOS this application can works both as a standalone and as an Audio unit (AUv3) with DAWs and audio unit hosts like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, GarageBand, MainStage, Plogue Bidule, etc.

All application features are available on macOS.






Also in this update:

  • Improves compatibility with Logic Pro (iPad).
  • Added fullscreen mode when using the plugin with GarageBand (iPad).
  • Optimization of the audio engine.
  • Some improvements and fixing a few minor bugs.
  • Built-in description has been updated (also available as PDF file).




Tuesday, August 1, 2023

Synths and Apps #5

Demo of Quasimidi Sirius synth sound processed with VintageRack app on iPad. With addition GlitchScaper app for noise background (apps work as audio units in AUM host app).

Vintage Synth Explorer: "The Sirius is Quasimidi's souped-up keyboard similar to the Rave-O-Lution 309 and aimed directly at the dance market. It's filled with knobs, buttons and cool colors. Designed for total control for live performance or studio work!

Actually most knobs are dedicated to patch editing. It has a welcome new feature, a modern vocoder! There are also 8 control knobs for setting various mixer-type settings (level, pan, fx send). That's right, it has effects on board! It's got a great sound too! Choose from basic categories like 'bass sounds', 'dirty bass', 'pad sounds', 808 & 909 kits and much more! There's plenty of memory (96 user patches) to store your own creations. The filter and envelopes are flexible and sound very good."








VintageRack - Easy LoFi Vintage Vibe Effects >> App Store

VintageRack (iOS/macOS/Audio unit) is a minimalistic and convenient multi-effect application that contains modules realistically simulating notable retro gear from the early digital age with their natural lo-fi and warm aesthetics. >>> More about this app

GlitchScaper - Rhythm & Glitch machine >> App Store

GlitchScaper (iOS/macOS/Audio unit) is a rhythm machine with six sound generators, each controlled by a two-layer cycle sequencer, designed to easily create glitchy patterns and scapes. >>> More about this app

Thursday, June 29, 2023

Summer Sale! All Apps.


>>> Check out the apps features demo on YouTube



Follow the link "More about this app" to learn more about the app, download the PDF description (also built-in the app) and watch the video demos and tutorials.

GlitchScaper - Rhythm & Glitch machine >> App Store

GlitchScaper (iOS, macOS, AUv3) is a rhythm machine with six sound generators, each controlled by a two-layer cycle sequencer, designed to easily create glitchy patterns and scapes. >>> More about this app

VintageRack - Easy LoFi Vintage Vibe Effects >> App Store

VintageRack (iOS, macOS, AUv3) is a minimalistic and convenient multi-effect application that contains modules realistically simulating notable retro gear from the early digital age with their natural lo-fi and warm aesthetics. >>> More about this app

SpaceFields - Space Ambient Machine >> App Store

SpaceFields (iOS, macOS, AUv3) is a mangler effect for creating slowly changing rhythmic sound structures in a deep reverb space from any external signal. Great for experimenting and designing ambient and noise backgrounds with rhythmic elements. >>> More about this app

AltiSpace 2 - Advanced Convolution Reverb >> App Store

AltiSpace (iOS, macOS, AUv3) is a convolution reverb app with advanced controls that provides realistic sounding natural acoustic space or vintage reverb devices for any track or mix. >>> More about this app

SoundSaw - The Art of Sound Destruction >> App Store

SoundSaw (iOS, macOS, AUv3) is a complex sound processing app with easy-to-use controls designed to distort the sound of musical instruments or voice, and give the sound the aesthetics and atmosphere of noise, lo-fi, chiptune and experimental music scene. >>> More about this app

BeatCutter - Rhythm slicing & recombining >> App Store

BeatCutter (iOS, macOS, AUv3) is an experimental multi-channel app for slicing and recombining sound based on rhythm. In the center of the app is a matrix of sample cells with smoothly reconfigurable recording, playback and control busses. >>> More about this app

ClassicFX - Reworked classic audio effects >> App Store

A complete sound effects processor and a mono to stereo converter with equalizer, effects and reverb, based on specially designed high-quality processing algorithms and suitable for any kind of audio sources. >>> More about this app

SynthScaper - Soundscapes synthesizer >> App Store

Synthesizer specially designed for creating and experiments with ambient soundscapes in wide range from noises to melodic instruments and everything in between. >>> More about this app

SynthScaper LE - Multitimbral atmospheric synth >> App Store

The special lightweight version of SynthScaper LE lets you easily create and modify your own multi-timbral pads and atmospheric soundscapes. >>> More about this app

FieldScaper - Field recorder & Scapes constructor >> App Store

Advanced field recorder combined with a sound warp engine and a collection of ready to use dynamic presets for iPad and iPhone. >>> More about this app

SoundScaper - An experimental sound mini lab >> App Store

SoundScaper is an experimental sound mini lab for creating unusual soundscapes, atmospheric textures, drones, glitches and noises based on circuit bending principles. >>> More about this app


Monday, June 5, 2023

VintageRack (iOS/macOS) updated to version 1.3

This update improves the app's compatibility with Logic Pro for iPad. You may need to reboot your iPad for the app to appear in the list of Logic Pro plugins. Also made some improvements and fixed a few minor bugs.

VintageRack - Easy LoFi Vintage Vibe Effects >> App Store

VintageRack (iOS,macOS,Audio unit) is a minimalistic and convenient multi-effect app that contains modules realistically model notable retro gears from the early digital age with their natural and warm aesthetics. Most of the effects in this application have been inspired and based on the principles of actual hardware from the 70s and 80s, which is great for giving the sound of any instrument the nostalgic and emotional mood of old recordings.

>>> More about this app



Colin Powell - Vintage Rack Demo Jam

A brief walkthrough of the app and then a trawl through all of the included presets whilst jamming along with some other apps in AUM.


Ken Karsh - My Romance (Serenading Pandora)

My distinguished feline assistant Pandora is truly the star of this show, as you will see in this performance. The guitars were processed with VintageRack by Igor Vasiliev. I’m having some fun with the Jazz standard (and our wedding dance song) “My Romance.” Enjoy and Happy Holidays!


Synths and Apps EP1: Roland Juno-60 with VintageRack, AltiSpace, Classic FX, SpaceFields

This is a series of short demos of my apps with different synths. How they can change the sound, make it brighter and more engaging or even drastically change it. I really like hardware synths, but these apps will work great with any soft synth on iOS or Mac, also as with a live instruments. So it will be a small series of holiday sound experiments!







Thursday, May 18, 2023

GlitchScaper as gated effect

Each GlitchScaper generator can act as a gated effect. To use this feature, select the "Stream" mode in the "Tone" section of the generator panel. In this mode, the external input of the app (input of the Audio unit effect) becomes the signal source for the generator. The signal is processed by the generator directly, without recording to the loop. The "Gate" parameter in the "Tone" section defines the envelope that controls the input signal level of the generator. Parameters "Frequency / Envelope", "Frequency / Range" and "Modulate the frequency / Type" are not used in this mode. Thus, the each active step of the internal sequencer opens the gate (run the envelope) and passes the input signal through the generator effects.


The input signal is cut into steps associated to an external rhythm (BPM) when this app is used as an Audio unit in a DAW or host app. That allows you to create ambient or glitch patterns match to the rhythm of a drum machine (or another instance of the GlitchScaper audio unit) from any external sources, regardless of its original rhythmic structure. Of course, for creating ambient patterns with long sequencer steps, it is best to use smooth source material with a not very noticeable rhythm. Using all six GlitchScaper generators as gated effects, you can create quite complex patterns. For example from internet radio.

Tip: In usual mode, the tone constructor (button "Make tone") uses an internal tone or noise as the generator signal source. To use the tone constructor for an external signal, set the generator to the "Stream" mode in the "Tone" section. In this mode, you can use the tone constructor for an external signal.



In the following example, the GlitchScaper processes the signal from the minimalistic streaming internet radio app Ström and creates a patterns that matches well with the rhythm of the drum machine app Elastic Drums. AUM app is used as the Audio unit / Inter-app audio host.




GlitchScaper is a rhythm machine with six sound generators, each controlled by a two-layer cycle sequencer, designed to easily create glitchy patterns and scapes. >> App Store

>>> More about GlitchScaper (demo, reviews and guides)






Monday, May 15, 2023

GlitchScaper app (iOS/macOS) updated to version 1.1

GlitchScaper is a rhythm machine with six sound generators, each controlled by a two-layer cycle sequencer, designed to easily create glitchy patterns and scapes. >> App Store

>>> More about GlitchScaper (demo, reviews and guides)




More details about this update:

  • The new "Stream" mode for generators (in section "Generator - Tone") allows you to use this app as a six-channel gated effect. In this mode the generator uses a direct input stream as a signal source. This mode does not use the loop recorder and is similar to how gated effects work. The "Input" mode has been renamed to "Loop".
  • A new button "Space: On, Continue, Off" has been added in the "Output" section to control the common reverb space and reverb reflections of each generator. With this button, you can turn off the overall reverb space and reverb reflections of the generators, for use external reverb / spatial effects as needed. This button also allows you to make reverb tails continue after the sequencer stops.
  • Added the ability to create groups of presets. Now the list of presets can be organized more conveniently. You can create groups, move presets between groups and merge them. The "Favorites" group is created automatically when you make a preset a favorite. The "Factory" group contains all factory presets, and can be hidden in the settings.
  • Added the ability to export and import presets and groups. You can save a preset or group to an external file, then import it into the app on another device.
  • The "Solo" button has been added for all generators.
  • Several new factory presets added.
  • Improved work of generators in loop recording mode (the "Loop" mode).
  • Sequencer control parameters exposed as MIDI and external parameters of Audio unit.
  • Added a detailed description of the new modes to the built-in description of the app. Also available as a PDF file.



GlitchScaper tutorials from the channel "SoundForMore Tutorials"