2014
05/21
Use A Bluetooth Keyboard As A Midi Controller
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Double Decker

The best MIDI controller is the one that you have with you. Double Decker transforms an ordinary Bluetooth keyboard into a sophisticated MIDI controller, giving you a much bigger playing surface, while still being portable. The app is designed to work with US/English keyboards; the key arrangement for other languages may not be compatible.

On iOS, an app can only receive keystrokes from a QWERTY keyboard when it is in the foreground. For this reason, Double Decker must be in the foreground to work; this is a limitation of iOS, and there is no way that we can work around it. The app is designed to send MIDI notes to other apps (running in the background), or MIDI to apps running in the foreground on other devices.

The iOS operating system only makes key press information available to apps, and not key release. For this reason, Double Decker cannot make a QWERTY keyboard operate like a typical (piano) keyboard.

Press a key on the Bluetooth keyboard to trigger a note. When you touch another key, the first note is silenced as the next note is played.

Tapping the space bar will silence all sounding notes. While it would obviously be better if lifting up on a key silenced a note, iOS does not provide this functionality for app developers.

The app features a state-of-the-art Soundfont engine, advanced MIDI routing capability, support for Apollo MIDI over Bluetooth, and even Audiobus!

The keys are arranged with the two middle rows in a piano-style formation. Play a second instrument using the bottom row of keys, and two more instruments using the number keys and punctuation. Each key can be configured to trigger either a single note or a chord.

A second arrangement of the keyboard divides things into four grids, four-by-four each. This is great for finger drumming, and triggering samples and sequences.

Double Decker supports Soundfonts, opening up a world of different tones. The app also has full support for MIDI, giving almost unlimited sonic potential. Using the MIDI Learn feature in apps such as Loopy and Genome, you can start and stop recording, play synthesizers, and switch tracks, all with a Bluetooth keyboard.

If you have multiple iOS devices, you can link them together using the low latency connection provided by Apollo MIDI over Bluetooth. Run Double Decker in the foreground on one device to catch keystrokes, and then send MIDI to a second device, which can have a synthesizer or sequencer app in the foreground.

Key features of the app are the following:
* Innovative use of an external keyboard to trigger notes.
* Keyboard arranged into two groups, each with four different playing regions.
* Each region can be assigned a Soundfont patch, a set of MIDI destinations, or both.
* Soundfonts can be added using “open in” or iTunes file sharing.
* Each key in each region is configurable as either a note or a chord, with independent velocity control.
* Key configurations can be saved as presets, shared through email, or downloaded from the web.
* The app supports the Audiobus “input” slot.
* Built-in support as a Apollo MIDI over Bluetooth “A” endpoint.

Double Decker is available for $4.99

2014
05/13
Mastering Apps For iPad!
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Audio Mastering App For iPad

One year of Audio Mastering for iPad – A year ago the first version of Audio Mastering for iPad was released and to celebrate you get 50% off all apps by Igor Vasiliev !!

Although the first version had only the basic set of sound processing tools this was the first application for iPad that gives everyone the possibility to bring their final mixes to the next level.

The first Audio Mastering had four sections of audio processing – Ten-band graphic equallizer, Harmonic saturator, Three-band stereo imaging and Loudness maximizer (based on break-wall limiter). All controls were placed on the same panel. Three other panels contain File manager, Waveform view and Settings.

But already from the first version in the application have been implemented its main features – unique sounding, high quality audio processing algorithms and precise control of all processing parameters, things are essential for any mastering.

Even using a basic set of processing tools you could make your mixes brighter and more intense just by listening to them and slightly changing the parameters. This is a simple and easy way to make the sound better. The basic mode also available in the latest version.

Read more here

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The first fully functional professional quality audio mastering application for iPad. For everyone who wants to take their final mixes to the next level. Precise control of all parameters and highest quality audio processing, the most important part of any mastering, is the base of this application.

This all-in-one tool allows you to finalize the completed mix, record a track, convert audio formats, change sample rate, convert bit depth, cut part of a track for preview and apply fade-in and fade-outs. Support for Inter-App Audio and Audiobus allows you to use Audio Mastering together with other music applications. Moreover, with an external audio interface, you can use this application as a powerful sound processor or insert effect in your studio and integrate it with other studio hardware.

The easy-to-use interface lets you tweak all the controls in real time while auditioning the result as you make parameter adjustments. Using a unique feature – two different control modes – you can quickly and easily adjust the final mix in basic mode, or fine-tune the settings in more details for the best possible sound in advanced mode. Includes built-in presets that allow you to quickly find a suitable starting point for your music and then tweak the processing to get a desired result.

Audio processing features:

● Complete 32-bit high-quality audio processing algorithms.
● Five band parametric or ten band graphic equalizer.
● Switchable multi-band or single-band compressor.
● Very subtle sounding reverb special for mastering.
● Three band stereo imaging with common stereo width level.
● Harmonic saturator with three sets of harmonics.
● Loudness maximizer with adjustable response speed and ceiling.
● Spectrum analyzer switchable between input, equalizer or output.
● Visualization of compressor signals and compression level.
● Mid-Side vector visualization tool for stereo imaging.
● Sample rate converter from 96, 88.2, 48 to 44.1 or 48 kHz.
● Bit depth converter supports 16, 24, 32 bits audio.
● Function Normalize at conversion of files.
● Dithering with noise shaping.
● Support wav, aif, mp3, m4a, caf, flac audio formats.

Application features:

● Advanced and basic control modes.
● All parameters are stored for each file.
● Processing groups of files with predefined parameters.
● Possibility to create and compare presets.
● Copy, paste, email and share presets.
● Different color schemes available for the visual interface.

File access:

● Sharing files on SoundCloud web service (you will need free SoundCloud account).
● Support for the Dropbox web service (you will need free Dropbox account).
● Exchange files between applications through audio clipboard.
● Support “Open in” feature to get audio files from other applications.
● Option to “Open file in” sends file directly to another application.
● Access to files through internal Web service in WiFi network.
● Support for iTunes file share.

Compatibility:

● Inter-App Audio compatible.
● Support Audiobus in Effect or Output slots.
● Recording from external input, with Inter-App audio or Audiobus.

Requirements:

Third generation of iPad and higher is recommended (especially with Inter-App audio and Audiobus). Offline processing can be done with any iPad.

Please note: This application is an audio processing tool only. It does not have audio editor functions.

Master Record Audio Recording App For iPad
MASTER RECORD
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Easy to use recording application with convenient controls and very creative effects like analog tape recorders will gives your music warmth and natural sounding professional grade quality.

Master Record can use any external audio source for record or used as Effect or Output in Audiobus. Also you can upload audio files to this application for final processing or before mixing.

After recording you can cut any part of track, make fade-in and fade-out and dubbing track with applying all built-in effects. Then you can send the track to another audio application thru “Open in” option or use audio clipboard. Built-in web access service gives you easy way to share files in your WiFi network.

Audio processing features:

● Tape recorder effects with different types of frequency response and wow / flutter.
● Classic High / Low shelf EQ for accurate input signal correction.
● Tape saturation effect with three types similar to the different equipment modes.
● Noise effect with five types of noise for more natural sounds.
● Separate level control for each channel with link option and channel selection.
● High quality limiter prevents clipping and makes sound more intense.
● Highly visible level meters, time counter, free space and battery meters.
● Support .wav, .aif, .mp3, .m4a, .caf .flac audio file formats.

More features:

● Predefined presets, ability to create own presets.
● Compare two different preset or effects settings in real time.
● All effects settings are stored for each file and recording mode.
● Dubbing recorded or uploaded tracks with using all of effects.
● Cut part of track and make Fade In and Fade Out with three types of envelope.
● Support Dropbox web service (you will need free Dropbox account).
● Sharing files on SoundCloud web service (you will need free SoundCloud account).
● Support Audiobus in Effect or Output position.
● Exchange files between applications through audio clipboard.
● Option “Open in” sends file to another audio application.
● Sharing files thru internal Web service in WiFi network.
● Support iTunes file share.

Compatible:

iPad 2 and higher is strongly recommended (especially with Audiobus). Generally this application can be run with iPad 1 but there is possibility of dropping the signal out when playback or use Audiobus. Offline processing can be done with any iPads quite well.

Master FX Audio Effects For iPad
MASTER FX

Multipurpose effect processor for guitar, synthesizer and voice, providing a wide range of high-quality and creative effects options for audio processing.

Includes a broad selection of audio processing options, comprehensive presets system, flexible audio routing options for connecting effect modules, audio player and recorder, low latency and highest quality of audio processing.

Master FX is intended for real-time processing of sound from one or two external instruments or microphones separately while playing or singing. It can also mix instrument sound or voice with pre-recorded audio tracks. Master FX can also be used as a sound processor within a variety of other musical applications as it supports Inter-App Audio or Audiobus. This allows the app to be used as an effects processor as part of an iOS-based multitrack recording system.

Built-in effects:

● 3-Band parametric equalizer
● Chorus
● Flanger
● Pitch modulator
● Delay
● Reverb
● Compressor
● Limiter on main output

Main features:

● Completely 32-bit high quality audio processing.
● Low-latency for real time playing.
● Up to 6 effects at once.
● Various options for connecting effect modules.
● Processing of the two channels separately.
● Built-in player with playlists feature.
● Convenient playback control.
● Built-in recorder with switching sources (input, processed, output).
● Individual presets for each effect module.
● Global presets for all module parameters and connections.
● Includes control options designed specifically for live performance.
● Inter-App Audio compatible.
● Support Audiobus in Effect or Output slots.
● Support Dropbox web service (you will need free Dropbox account).
● Exchange files between applications through audio clipboard.
● Support “Open in” feature to move audio files from other applications.
● Option “Open file in” sends file directly to another application.
● Access to files through internal Web service in local network.
● Support for iTunes file share.
● Different color schemes of visual interface.

Compatibility:

iPad 2 and higher is strongly recommended (especially with Audiobus).

Generally this application can be run on first generation iPad but there is a possibility of audio dropouts. Offline processing can be done with any iPad.

2014
05/06
Interpol Morphing Monosynth For iPad
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Interpol Synthesizer

Interpol is the monosynth with dual personality. Create two sound setups and morph seamlessly between them with the cross-fader.

Shift from a harsh growls to warm luscious pads and anywhere in between.

Whether you are morphing waveforms, filter types, or chord structures, interpol will provide a unique touch to your creations with this original approach to synthesis.

The 6 voices can either be set to de-tunable unison or you can choose between 8 chord structures. When morphing between chords, the notes glide like polyphonic portamento, great for atmospheric sounds.

Over 40 parameters can be merged and all seamlessly and in real time.

Interpol also features audiobus and midi and you can save and load your favorite presets.

Interpol is available for $3.99

2014
05/06
Virtual ANS Ambient Music Generator
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Virtual-ANS

Virtual ANS is a software simulator of the unique Russian synthesizer ANS – photoelectronic microtonal/spectral musical instrument created by Russian engineer Evgeny Murzin from 1938 to 1958.
The instrument was used by Stanislav Kreichi, Alfred Schnittke, Edison Denisov, Sofia Gubaidulina, Edward Artemiev and other Soviet composers. You can hear the sound of the ANS in Andrei Tarkovsky’s movies Solaris, The Mirror, Stalker.

While the other similar programs are just fun toys, the Virtual ANS is a full-featured professional tool which allows you to create unusual, deep, atmospheric sounds. With this app you can draw a complete piece of music, or convert sound to image (sonogram) and then make some complex sonogram modifications.
Actually the potential of the program has not been explored yet, so it (as well as PixiVisor) is more appropriate for people who are searching for something new, not afraid to experiment with sound.

[ Key features ]
• unique Virtual Analog sound engine;
• unlimited number of pure tone generators;
• powerful sonogram editor – you can draw the spectrum and play it at the same time;
• any sound (from a WAV file or a Microphone/Line-in) can be converted to image (sonogram) and vice versa;
• MIDI Input;
• supported file formats: WAV, PNG, JPEG, GIF, VNS (Virtual ANS 1.x);
• Jack and Audiobus support;
• iTunes File Sharing;
• Wi-Fi Export/Import;
• more functions in the next Virtual ANS updates…

Virtual ANS is available for $2.99

2014
05/02
Crystalline Shimmering Reverb For iPad
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Crystalline

Crystalline is a shimmer reverb/delay effect for Audiobus and Inter-app audio. Create synth-like tones and textures from almost any sound source, perfect for guitar, vocals, synths, sound design and more.

Guitarists can plug their instrument into an audio interface such as the Apogee Jam and get the elusive shimmer reverb tone they’ve been searching for.

Crystalline is capable of a wide range of sounds, including classic “shimmer” effects from the 80’s, unique pitch shifted delays and lush reverbs. Crystalline is a highly creative and unique effects processor.

Crystalline features two distinct modes:
PERFORM and TWEAK.

● PERFORM mode is focused around four XY touch pads. Touch to control DELAY TIME, FEEDBACK, REVERB and LOW PASS independently for left and right channels.

● TWEAK mode features large expressive sliders and additional effect parameters, allowing you to fine tune your sound.

In addition to Audiobus and Inter-app Audio support, Crystalline can also process external instruments such as guitar, voice and synths by connecting a microphone or professional audio interface such as the Apogee Jam, ONE, or any iOS compatible USB audio interface.

COMPATIBILITY:
● requires iOS 7.0 or later
● iPad Mini/iPad 2 or newer
● Audiobus 2 compatible (Effect, Input, state saving)
● Inter-App audio compatible (effect node)
● compatible with USB audio interfaces

FEATURES:

● Control Left and Right channel delay time, feedback, reverb and more.
● 16 delay modes for a wide variety of pitch shifted delay effects
● Multiple stereo output modes including Wide Stereo, Cross Feedback, Stereo Tremolo and Sum to Mono.
● Huge range of ambient sound effects possible, from beautiful shimmering reverbs to dissonant, metallic delays.

Crystalline works with just about any professional iOS compatible USB audio interfaces. Here is a list of interfaces that have been tested and verified to be compatible:

● Apogee Jam
● Apogee Mic
● Apogee ONE for iPad/Mac
● Apogee DUET for iPad/Mac
● Apogee QUARTET for iPad/Mac
● iConnectMIDI2+
● iConnectMIDI4+
● iRig
● iRig HD
● iRig iMic
● Focusrite Scarlett series (*requires USB hub)
● Alesis io2
● Alesis IO Dock
● Behringer UCA202
● many more

Crystaline is available for $4.99

  • iPad Loops is an iOS music production blog dedicated to exposing the best iPad apps musicians, producers, and Djs. This is not a database of every app. It is, however, one of useful recommendations from someone with many years in music production. I try to update it on a daily basis (ok sometimes every two days) and I do my best to post useful apps only. My name is Jason Donnelly (Dj Puzzle). Some of the apps that contain my sounds are Synth One, EG Segments, Hammerhead, Retronyms AudioCopy, Audio Evolution Mobile, and iMPC Pro. My work is published by Roland, Antares, Magix, Soundtrack Loops, Sample Logic, Acoustica, Native Instruments, The Grammt Museum and many more. Subscribe to our RSS feed below to get updated when new apps are posted.
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