ScapesWizard: Atmospheric Soundscape Generator
ScapesWizard by HG Fortune is a unique VST instrument for creating atmospheric soundscapes and textures. It offers an innovative approach to sound generation, ideal for musicians and sound designers looking for something special.
Interactive Control and LazyPlay
The main difference of ScapesWizard is its control concept. You can instantly switch samples using the keyboard. Each press activates or changes a sample with a specific pitch and velocity sensitivity, which is ideal for live performances. The LazyPlay mode allows you to automatically play a pool of waves sequentially or randomly, synchronizing with the clock or triggered manually. This adds an element of unpredictability and simplifies the creation of evolving textures.
Three Sound Engines
The plugin has three separate sound engines:
- Slow Motion Scapes (Oscillators 1&2): For slow, evolving landscapes.
- OneShots and Loops (Oscillator 3): For short sounds and looped fragments.
- Space Rumble Background Noise: For atmospheric noises and depth.
Each engine has its own settings for detailed sound shaping.
Quick Access and Expression
ScapesWizard uses keyboard distribution: C2-B3 for Osc. 1&2, C4-B5 for Osc. 3. This gives instant access to 48 samples (24+24). You can assign different wave sets (from 5) to each range, which is convenient with trigger pads. For Osc. 3, there are fade-out (C6) and restart (F6) functions for loops. Pitchwheel (Osc. 1&2, +/- 1 octave) and Modwheel (Osc. 3) are supported for additional expression.
Deep Modulation
Most knobs have a dual purpose: value and modulation depth. This allows you to create complex sound changes. Four LFOs are adjustable by speed. They are mixed in pairs, controlled by a third LFO, creating unique modulation shapes. The modulation visualization is displayed by animated “planets”.
Conclusion
ScapesWizard is a powerful tool for creating atmospheric and unique soundscapes. Its original control, multi-layered architecture, quick access to samples, and advanced modulation make it ideal for adding a special atmosphere to music, soundtracks, or experiments. It stimulates creativity and offers unconventional ways of achieving sound, especially during live performances. If you are looking for an instrument that stands out, ScapesWizard is worth considering.
