The funny thing is that after only using Phonec as an fx for routing external audio through the Melt function for a while, I started playing with the synth a bit more, and I now find myself using it in this capacity more and more. In fact, I even use it in places where I would have traditionally used samples and not dreamt of using a synth VSTi because up to Phonec they simply couldn't match the "character" of samples. So well done, you really have a unique approach to designing synths that are inspiring and don't just follow the mold of what everyone else seems to be doing.
A couple feedback notes on phonec:
1) I placed the phonec fx plugin after the aethereal demo in reaper (to use the Melt function on the aethereal output), and everytime I changed the aethereal preset, the phonec fx would also change preset, so I would lose the Melt settings I had dialed in. I don't know if fx versions of VSTi's are supposed to ignore program changes, and not sure why doing a program change in one VSTi would be transmitted out anyway, but it's something I noticed in case it can be fixed (no big deal though).
2) Would be cool to have some more options for the noise knob, perhaps a panel where you can color it with filters or eq, different types of noise, noise amplitude random variances etc.. With the melt function engaged, I think noise adds more character than it might with a 'regular' synth and thus is more important, so it would be cool to have a panel within phonec with more control over it. I have a preset right now where I just can't quite get the noise volume right - I think I need to lowpass it - I can probably do what I need with 2 phonecs in series and maybe an eq though.
3) Like I said, I really love the Melt function as it is now, but if you were to continue to expand/develop it further (perhaps into a standalone fx plugin?) here are some ideas:
- the ability to add melt sliders (pitch, jmp etc) as modulation targets in phonec (I know they can be automated, but it's nice to have everything self-contained in a phonec preset)
- maybe a subtle flutter that randomly comes in on occasion to further degrade things?
- on pads I sometimes like to add a vinyl warp effect for a more dramatic 'jolt' to the pitch, something like Izotope Vinyl, or Speakerphone (Gramophone section)
but I'm not really satisifed with how these plugins sound and don't really like the regular periodicity of the effects (every LP rotation), I'd prefer it to be more random. I guess it similar to the melt-jump effect, but more dramatic and rarer (but more pronounced).
Anyway, just some thoughts, I look forward to seeing what else you come up with, and especially synths and effects with that late 70s early 80s sound aesthetic.
