sonicLAB launches Protean Synthesizer

By sampler  On  

sonicLAB has announced the release of the Protean software synthesizer, an audiovisual instrument for sound designers and composers working with experimental music technology.

Protean – A Sonic Odyssey

Protean creates an immersive experience where particle interactions within a non-gravitational fluid simulation generate ever-evolving soundscapes. As particles flow, coalesce, and interact, they trigger sound synthesis events, establishing a direct correspondence between visual fluid choreography and sonic output.

Users can modulate both the physical parameters of the fluid simulation and the sound synthesis algorithms, crafting a truly interactive instrument.

Particles form groups as synth voices and groups form clusters which interact with other clusters in this dynamic system.

The name “Protean” derives from Proteus, the shape-shifting Greek sea deity, reflecting the instrument’s constantly transforming nature.

Protean presents a dynamic sonic form featuring:

  • Multiple fluid emitters each with its own assignable synth algorithms.
  • Multiple synthesis algorithms including additive, FM and modal synthesis.
  • Protean uses only sine waves to produce the sound, but organizing and rendering 100’s of them in real-time.

  • In Protean, modulation sources are derived from dynamic mappings calculated within the fluid simulation system. The application continuously monitors particle status.

  • Furthermore, each synth voice is equipped with 5 envelope generators tailored to the specific algorithm in use.

  • DSP FX per voice can be assigned as well the modulation sources derived from the fluid dynamic system, establishing a seamless correspondence between visual fluid choreography and sonic output.

  • Custom MIDI CC assignment on each slider.

  • comes with ProteanRemote VST3/AU plugin to control the Protean app inside the DAW.

  • Parallel audio processing implementation on multi-core CPU.

  • GPU compute shaders for fluid dynamics simulation and visualization.

  • Designed and developed by Sinan Bokesoy. The preset creations of this instrument include Ryan Pryor, Laurent Mialon and Daito Manabe.

Pricing & Availability

Protean is available for OS X (Intel/Silicon compatible) and Windows platforms. At least OS X Monterey / Windows10 or higher is needed. Recommended CPU is a minimum Apple M1 Silicon or equivalent.

Protean is a standalone application and it comes with the Protean Remote controller VST3/AU plugin.

The bundle costs 139 Euros. There is a launch discount offer for 89 Euros valid until the end of May 2025. It can be purchased on sonicLAB/sonicPlanet webshop.

Existing sonicLAB / sonicPlanet clients will receive a voucher of 25 Euros value for their next purchase.

Authorisation needs and iLok account. Options are iLok USB dongle, iLok Cloud or directly the host computer.

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