Scrap Brain Audio announced the release of Whorl, a 16-step microslice-sequencer that turns any audio file into playable rhythmic patterns.
Users drop drum breaks, synth stems, or field recordings directly onto the interface. The plugin analyzes transient onsets and spectral weight to divide the file into three slice groups: sharp attacks (A), tonal bodies (B), and sustaining textures (C).
The resulting slices map onto a 16-step grid with support for 1/32 subdivisions, sustain ties, or soft ambient room tone captured from the source sample. Each step can trigger custom effect combinations—such as tape stops, half-bar reverses, filters, distortion, auto-pan, or delay—directly on individual hits.
Key Features
- Microslicing: Automatically categorizes audio into three dedicated layers (Attack, Body, Texture) for targeted sequencing and sound extraction.
- 16-Step Modular Engine: Features 1/32 subdivisions, sustain ties, generative rhythm randomization, and 4 pattern memory slots switchable live via MIDI notes.
- Step-Based FX Matrix: Three customizable effect profiles combining Distortion, Filter, Delay, Reverse, Tape Stop, and Auto-Pan, assignable per step.
Pricing & Availability
Whorl is available for $39 until September 15 (Reg. $99) in AU, VST3, and standalone formats for macOS (Native Apple Silicon & Intel) and Windows 10/11 (64-bit).
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