Ableton has a new freebie for Max For Live users – the Kasio-4ML synthesizer.
Like its namesake CZ-series synths, Kasio-M4L uses Phase Distortion synthesis – in which the phase of a sine wave is modified in various ways to produce new waveforms. Kasio-M4L builds on its digital legacy, producing plastic basses, sharp bell-like timbres and shimmering resonant pads.
Utilizing two CZ-style oscillators, ring modulation, three Envelope Generators and an LFO, a wide variety of timbres are possible. Kasio-M4L serves to bring the classic sounds of Phase Distortion to all Max for Live users.
Kasio-M4L comes with 32 presets, inspired by the original CZ-synths. All controls are laid out on one easy-to-use panel for instant tweaking. Select from eight CZ waveforms for each oscillator in the “Wave” section. Different waveforms can be set for each alternating cycle; the second oscillator can also be detuned and mixed as a ring modulator signal. The ADSR Envelope Generator sections control amplitude, pitch and the all-important DCW (digitally controlled wave-shaping) which varies the amount of phase distortion. Vibrato is controlled via the LFO section.
You can preview Kasio-4ML below:
“Max4Live allowed me to develop something relatively quickly, that has a smart interface and is ready to use in productions straight away,” explains developer Oli Larkin.
“Max allows you to go very deep if you want to,” he adds. “Being able to use my own C++ externals [low-level code within Max/MSP] for aspects of the synth is one thing that really appeals to me.”
Larkin says that a VST/AU/RTAS is being considered, too, if people are interested – so let him know what you think!
Kasio-M4L is available as a free download with accompanying Live Set for all owners of Max for Live. Kasio-M4L requires Ableton Live 8.2.6 or higher.
It’s a very good idea, but, alas, another one of those M4L instruments that you cannot edit. For me that defeats a big part of the promise of M4L. I’m beginning to think that we could use something like the Free Software Foundation, but less dogmatic and with a clear focus on media production. But then I guess it’s not practical, I use too many closed source, locked down pieces of software myself. Still it’s always disappointing to click on the edit button just to be greeted by a locked Max file.
Bah, who puts ADSR envelopes on a CZ synth!! 🙁
At least they remembered the pitch envelope.