Glitchmachines Skein Offers ‘Unconventional’ Take On FM Synthesis

Glitchmachines has introduced Skein, an FM synthesizer that they say is “focused on experimental sound design and electronic music production. ”

Skein 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, including 4 LFOs with 15 wave shapes, 4 modulation sequencers with various utilities and up to 32 steps, and 4 multi-mode envelopes. Other features include two versatile multi-mode filters, and an effects processing chain that offers 4 multi-effects.

Here’s what they have to say about it:

“We’ve taken an unconventional approach with Skein.

Instead of replicating the classic digital FM synths of the past, we 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. “

Here’s the official video intro:

Features:

  • 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 64bit

Glitchmachines Skein Audio Demo:

Pricing and Availability:

Skein is available now for macOS & Windows for $89 USD.

4 thoughts on “Glitchmachines Skein Offers ‘Unconventional’ Take On FM Synthesis

  1. “We’ve taken an unconventional approach with Skein.” – i don’t see a single unconventional thing. i see a VST with a bunch of stuff shoehorned into a fake CGI box, the epitomy of conventional software product design.

    if folks were just a bit more honest about the marketing blurbs…

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