At first, I thought about speed and simplicity. I wanted users to be able to sketch ideas quickly, perhaps with a single press of the randomizer, and hear a draft atmosphere emerge. But I also knew that some would want more: advanced controls to refine each layer, to make the sound truly unique. Balancing these two needs - effortless beginnings and deep customization - became the guiding principle of the design.
One of the core ideas was to divide the generators by their purpose. Each layer: Core, Flow, Grain, Shard, Glow - was given its own role in the sonic architecture. This separation made the system easier to understand and gave better results when parameters were randomized. Another idea was to keep parameters specific to each generator. By limiting controls to what mattered most for each layer, I reduced unnecessary complexity while preserving creative freedom.
Working with ExoSphere is not about following a strict technique. It is about listening, experimenting, and adjusting by ear. The basic process is straightforward - choose a sample, set its tone, presence, density and spatial depth. From there, you refine by adding modulation, letting parameters shift and evolve over time. This is how a simple sketch transforms into a living composition, one that never repeats itself exactly, always unfolding in new ways.
The result is an application with a deep, immersive sound. In headphones, ExoSphere reveals a rich low-frequency foundation and enveloping textures that draw the listener inward. On good speakers, it fills the room with atmosphere, equally suited for meditation, creative work, or quiet reflection. The modulators and sequencer are tied to a shared rhythm, so even a minimal external beat can blend seamlessly into the evolving soundscape.
ExoSphere is a universal app for iOS and Mac and will soon be available in the App Store.