DvnKeyFilter: Your Filter, Driven by Music
Looking for a unique way to add dynamics and expressiveness to your tracks? Want a filter that doesn’t just cut frequencies, but reacts to your playing, following the melody or rhythm? Then the DvnKeyFilter plugin from Davi Santos is just for you! It’s not just a regular low-pass filter, but a tool that opens up new horizons for creativity thanks to its innovative approach to control.
The main feature of DvnKeyFilter is the connection between the filter’s cutoff frequency and MIDI data. The plugin tracks the last key pressed and uses its pitch to determine the base cutoff frequency. This means the filter can “follow” your melody, opening or closing depending on the notes you play. Add to this the “Expression” parameter, which can be assigned to any MIDI CC (e.g., modulation wheel) or automated in your DAW, and you get an incredibly powerful tool for real-time sound shaping.
Key Features of DvnKeyFilter
This compact but powerful plugin offers a range of features that make it flexible and easy to use:
Main Filtering and Control Functions
- Low Pass Filter: A classic filter type for shaping timbre, cutting off high frequencies.
- Key Tracking: The filter’s cutoff frequency dynamically changes depending on the pitch of the last MIDI note played. This allows the filter to react to your melody or chords.
- Expression Control: An additional parameter that opens or closes the filter. Can be assigned to any MIDI CC (by default MIDI CC#1 – modulation wheel) or automated in your workstation (DAW). This gives you full control over the filtering dynamics.
Dynamics and Shaping
- Filter Envelope: Built-in Attack and Release parameters allow you to shape how quickly the filter reacts to changes in expression or notes. Create smooth transitions or sharp “wah” effects.
- Input Curve: This unique control allows you to adjust the shape of the relationship between the input signal (whether it’s a note or an expression value) and the filter’s cutoff frequency. Experiment with different curves to find the perfect feel of the reaction.
Convenience and MIDI/Audio Flow Control
- MIDI Input Filtering: The ability to ignore certain MIDI channels or messages (e.g., keyswitches), which is useful when working with complex instruments.
- Level Controls (Input/Output Gain): Control the input and output levels of the signal for optimal operation and to prevent clipping.
- Dry/Wet Mix: Mix the original signal with the processed filter signal, allowing you to achieve from subtle effects to a complete transformation of the sound.
- Peak Meters: Visual control of the input and output signal levels.
How to Use DvnKeyFilter?
Integrating DvnKeyFilter into your workflow is easy:
- Add an instrument to a MIDI track in your DAW.
- Insert the DvnKeyFilter plugin directly after that instrument in the effects chain.
- Make sure the track sends both audio and MIDI data to DvnKeyFilter.
- Control the Expression parameter with MIDI CC#1 (modulation wheel, if available on your controller) or automate it in your DAW.
- Adjust the Filter Envelope and Input Curve parameters, as well as levels and mix, to achieve the desired sound.
Experiment with different instruments – from synthesizers and pianos to guitars and strings. DvnKeyFilter can add a live, breathing character to your parts, making them more expressive and dynamic.
Conclusion
DvnKeyFilter is more than just a filter. It’s a creative tool that allows you to integrate dynamic filtering directly into your playing or composition, reacting to musical events. Its unique combination of key tracking and expression control opens up a multitude of possibilities for sound design, from subtle tonal shifts to dramatic sweeping effects. Try DvnKeyFilter and give your music a new breath!
