Nettle by Fellusive: Discover the World of Scanned Synthesis
Welcome to the fascinating world of scanned synthesis with Nettle by Fellusive! This unique plugin instrument goes beyond traditional synthesis methods, offering musicians and sound designers a brand new way to create sound. Instead of relying on static waveforms or samples, Nettle generates sound based on the dynamic movement of a virtual physical model.
What is Scanned Synthesis?
At the heart of Nettle lies the elegant concept of scanned synthesis. Imagine a system of interconnected masses joined by springs. This system is in constant potential motion. When you press a key on your MIDI controller, Nettle simulates a “hammer strike” on this system, exciting it. The masses begin to oscillate and interact with each other in a complex, unpredictable way.
Instead of using these oscillations directly as an audio signal, Nettle “scans” the positions of these masses over time. The speed and nature of this “scanning” determines the waveform, which is constantly changing. Because the movement of the masses is never completely identical and is constantly evolving, the timbre of the sound generated also transforms incessantly, breathes, and takes on living, organic qualities. This allows you to create sounds that are incredibly dynamic and expressive.
Sculpting Living Sound
The Nettle plugin gives you full control over the parameters of this virtual physical model. You can manipulate the “mass” of the objects, the “stiffness” of the connecting springs, the force and nature of the initial “strike,” and the “scanning” speed. By changing these parameters, you directly affect the movement of the system and, consequently, the final sound result. It feels like sculpting sound from clay – you shape its character, dynamics, and evolution over time. The possibilities for experimentation are endless, allowing you to obtain a wide range of timbres – from delicate, ringing textures to dense, growling basses that seem to have a will of their own. Nettle allows you to create the same “dynamic, almost tangible” sounds mentioned by the developer.
Key Features of Nettle:
- Polyphony: The plugin supports 32-voice polyphony, allowing you to play complex chords and textures without limitations.
- Full Automation: All parameters of Nettle can be fully automated in your DAW, opening the door to creating complex, evolving soundscapes and dynamic timbre changes throughout your track.
- Built-in Effects: For additional sound shaping and processing, Nettle has a built-in filter with low-pass and high-pass modes, which allows you to adjust the spectral balance, and a high-quality reverb that adds space, depth, and atmosphere.
- Advanced Modulation Capabilities: Add movement and life to your sounds with a powerful modulation system. Four independent low-frequency oscillators (LFOs) and four universal ADSR envelopes are available, which can be assigned to numerous plugin parameters. In addition, Nettle supports two modulation sources controlled directly from your MIDI controller (e.g., modulation wheel, expression pedal), making it ideal for live, expressive playing.
- Preset System: The plugin comes with a set of factory presets that demonstrate the diversity of its capabilities. You can also easily save your own settings and modify existing presets, creating a personal sound library.
- Randomize Button: For quick exploration of unexpected sound textures and finding new starting points for your sound design, Nettle has a convenient “Randomize” button that generates random parameter settings.
Conclusion
Nettle by Fellusive is a breath of fresh air in the world of sound synthesis. It’s a tool for those who strive to go beyond the ordinary and explore uncharted sonic territories. Its unique approach to sound generation through scanned synthesis allows you to create timbres that are organic, dynamic, and strikingly alive. Whether you are looking for atmospheric textures, unusual percussive elements, experimental leads, or just want to expand your synthesizer palette, Nettle offers an intuitive interface and deep sound design possibilities. Available in VST and AU formats for Windows (64-bit) and macOS operating systems, Nettle is ready to become your new source of inspiration and creative ideas. Try it today and feel how sound can truly come to life.
