Skein

Skein is an FM synthesizer focused on experimental sound design and electronic music production. It features 4 operators with skew controls and noise, as well as a flexible modulation matrix with per-cell modulation, per-operator feedback and eight user-definable algorithm presets. Key parameters can be targeted by numerous modulation sources such as 4 LFOs with 15 wave shapes, 4 modulation sequencers with various utilities and up to 32 steps, and 4 multi-mode envelopes. Easily shape and polish patches via two versatile multi-mode filters, as well as an effects processing chain that features 4 multi-effects with local randomizers and a reconfigurable chain order interface.

Much like Glitchmachines' other creative audio plugins, they've taken an unconventional approach with Skein. Instead of replicating the classic digital FM synths of the past, they set out to create a new instrument that is primarily focused on sound design and sonic experimentation. With a multitude of powerful modulation sources and a variety of processors such as distortion, bit crusher, chorus, phaser, delay, reverb and buffer effects, Skein is capable of generating an incredibly diverse and expressive range of tones and timbres.

Features & Technology:

• 4 Operator Modules with Skew & Noise.
• FM Matrix with Per-Cell Modulation.
• 8 Overwritable Factory FM Algorithms.
• Flexible Modulation Panel System.
• 4 LFOs with 15 Wave Shapes & Scopes.
• 4 Sequencers with 32 Steps & Utilities.
• 4 Multi-Mode Amplitude Envelopes.
• 2 Versatile Multi-Mode Filters.
• Poly Mode with 12 Voice Polyphony.
• Monophonic Mode with Glide.
• Quad Multi-Effects Chain with 7 Effects.
• 160 Presets across 4 Preset Banks.
• Windows & Mac VST3/AU 64-bit.

Skein features a flexible modulation system that's accessible via dedicated Mod Selectors situated below all target parameters, including all 16 Matrix Cells. Clicking on a selector reveals a popup Mod Panel, which provides access to the modulation sources including 4 LFOs, 4 Mod Sequencers, 4 Amplitude Envelopes, as well as 4 Randomizers, Velocity and Key Tracking. A highlight of the modulation sources are the Sequencers, which feature up to 32 steps each, a vertical grid resolution menu that allows you to dial in sequences precisely and 10 utility functions that speed up the sequencing process. The LFOs feature 15 wave shapes, as well as integrated oscilloscopes that allow you to visualize the interaction between the 4 LFO modules, making it easier to dial in complex modulation patches.

The sine Operator modules incorporate white noise generators, dual oscillator mode and a Skew control that bends the waveform, resulting in a more complex tone akin to sawtooth waves. The Envelope modules include Decay Mode, Release Mode and Loop, as well as a Perc Mode that applies when the modules are in Decay mode, providing a more snappy response critical to percussive sounds. The Quad Effects Chain offers 4 multi-effects processors with local randomizers, including distortion, bit crusher, chorus, phaser, delay, reverb and buffer effects. The effects chain can be reconfigured via the FX Chain interface, which allows you to easily alter the order of the processors. Two serial or parallel Multi-Mode Filters are also included, offering Lowpass, High Pass, Band Pass and Notch filter modes.

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