Bitwig has announced Bitwig Studio 3, a mjor new version of the music production software that combines linear and non-linear sequencing on Windows, macOS and Linux.
Bitwig Studio 3 features The Grid, a new window for working with sound. The Grid is an open modular environment built-in to three new devices: Poly Grid, Mono Grid and FX Grid.
While all Grid devices work in the same way, each allows for different configurations. The Grid can be used to build a polyphonic synth, or an adaptive audio effect with a personalized sound. FX Grid will chew up incoming audio, either gently or otherwise.
Sporting a bevy of Grid modules and a supersonic patching workflow, The Grid is a modern modular patching environment that lives within its family of new devices. Ideal for designing sounds and harnessing synthesis.
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As a native element in Bitwig Studio, The Grid is accessible in a number of ways:
- Grid devices can be nested or layered along with other devices and plug-ins, and they are controllable via MIDI mapping and from the Open Controller API.
- Song position is available as a sample-accurate signal, locking a patch in The Grid to the project's timeline.
- Arranger or clip-based automation can be added for any parameter in grid patches, even in combination with Bitwig Studio's existing modulators.
- The Grid modules like envelopes, LFOs, and sequencers all have modulator outputs as well. And just as Bitwig Studio's modulators can control any parameter in The Grid, any grid signal can be used to modulate child devices.
- With dedicated grid modules for sending any control, trigger, or pitch signal as CV Out and receiving any CV In, hardware can be seamlessly integrated with The Grid.
The technology powering The Grid is designed to be working, felt, and transparent:
- In The Grid, all signals are created equal — and 4x-oversampled for the highest sound quality. All signals are interchangeable so any out port can be connected to any in port.
- Every signal is stereo. That includes control signals, which indirectly affect audio. And plenty of modules can Stereo-ize signals, adding variety where needed.
- With The Grid's workflow gestures, new modules can be dropped directly onto ports, automatically wiring them into a patch. And for signals that are needed regularly, there is an option of pre-cords. These clickable icons appear beside in ports, allowing common connections to be made wirelessly.
Bitwig Studio 3 will be previewed at NAMM (January 2019) and will enter public beta shortly afterwards. Expected release of Bitwig Studio 3 is Q2 2019.
Bitwig Studio 3 is free for everyone with an active Upgrade Plan.