Digital Synthesis/Sampling is an often underexploited tool in the modern world of Film and Game Sound Design, with many professionals choosing to record sound effects, use analogue synthesis or utilise effects libraries instead. There are some areas where Digital Synthesis is very powerful, especially with tools available in the free Reaktor User Library - check out some of our favourites below.
Drone-E is a free ensemble which uses a variety of unusual parameters to modulate samples. Granular synthesis, pitch shifting, reverb and a sub generator to name a few. All in all, this has got to be one of our favourite methods for creating drones in software ever.
Magma is a hidden gem in the free Reaktor User Library. When tracklaying volcano scenes, it can be difficult to get the consistency of the lava just right. Magma solves this issue with its generation of liquidy textures that sound VERY convincing in a tracklayed post session or busy video game mix.
Want that authentic classic radio sound in your mix, warts and all? You’ve come to the right place. The free but very valuable FM Radio has all the typical controls you would expect to find including frequency, noise and filtering. It works as an effect within Reaktor.
Granular synthesis can feel like a complex task in some interfaces. The free GRIP synth can launch your samples into the cloud and soften them into tender droplets of granularity.
Download Grip Grain Cloud Synth Here
An absolute classic ensemble reskinned for Reaktor 6. This generative drone synth has provided hours of endless fun at 344 HQ, as well as some serious alien planet soundscape goodness. This must needed makeover makes the seemingly complicated interface feel more logical, a must have for Reaktor users.
Download Metaphysical Scenery Here
So there you have it, 5 amazing free ensembles for Sound Design, let us know your favourites below in the comments section.
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