SafFron: Transform Your Instrument into a Synthesizer
SafFron by Fretted Synth is an innovative VST plugin that opens up new horizons for musicians by transforming the audio signal of your instrument, be it a guitar, bass, or any other source, into a powerful synthesizer sound or MIDI signal for controlling other VSTis. It’s not just a plugin; it’s a bridge between your familiar sound and the world of synthesizer textures and melodies that are triggered in real-time by your playing.
The plugin is designed with special attention to musicians who want to integrate synthesizer sounds into their playing without having to master keyboards or additional controllers. SafFron tracks the pitch and dynamics of the incoming audio signal and uses this information to generate sound or MIDI, allowing you to “play” the synthesizer with your main instrument. This approach makes it an ideal tool for guitarists, bassists, and other instrumentalists who seek to expand their sound palette.
Key Features and Controls of SafFron
SafFron comes in four different versions, adding flexibility in choosing the optimal option for your needs. The main controls of the plugin allow you to precisely adjust its operation for perfect tracking of your instrument and the desired sound:
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Range
Defines the pitch range that the plugin tracks. The central setting is designed for the maximum guitar range, but there are also options for high and low ranges, allowing you to cover the full spectrum of a guitar or other instrument.
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MIDI Semi
Sets the pitch for the MIDI output in semitone steps, allowing you to transpose the output MIDI signal by -3 / +2 octaves.
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MIDI Bend
Enables or disables the Pitch Bend function for the MIDI output. While the function is still in development and may use high CPU load, it opens up possibilities for more expressive playing via MIDI.
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Thresh (Threshold Level)
This is one of the most important controls for accurate tracking. It sets the volume threshold at which the gate triggers. A lower threshold provides a longer gate sustain, while a higher threshold gives a faster response and tighter gate closure. Accurate adjustment of this parameter is critical for clean and stable tracking.
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Hold
Implements the note sustain function, using MIDI CC#64 (sustain pedal). Placed on the interface for visual control and convenient MIDI learning in hosts.
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Velocity
Allows you to align the tracking of dynamics (velocity) with the level of your input signal. Provides an adjustment range within ±12 dB for precise matching to your playing style.
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Tune
Strives to provide the most accurate tracking of the pitch of each note. Extremely useful when using the MIDI output to trigger another VSTi, as this parameter helps synchronize the pitch between SafFron’s internal synthesizer and the external instrument.
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Vel Curve
Defines the dynamics tracking curve. While a linear curve is set for all internal presets, changing this parameter can make the feel of playing on SafFron more natural, adapting the response to “soft” and “hard” playing according to the loaded soundfont or other sound source.
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Latency
Sets the delay time (in milliseconds) between the arrival of the audio signal and the triggering of the gate. This parameter allows the plugin to have enough time to accurately determine the pitch before the trigger fires. The necessary delay level depends on the type of input sound: simple waveforms (sine, saw) require minimal delay, while sounds with a more complex attack (e.g., bells) may require a greater delay to correctly track the sample attack.
Expanding Capabilities with MIDI Output
One of the most interesting features of SafFron is its MIDI output. This allows you to use your instrument not only as a sound source for SafFron’s internal synthesizer but also as a MIDI controller to trigger any other MIDI-controlled VST instruments in your project. You can simultaneously play the guitar and launch piano, string, drum, or any other synthesizer parts, controlling their pitch and dynamics with your playing. This opens up endless possibilities for experimentation and creating unique arrangements.
Technical Details
SafFron is available in VST format for the Windows operating system (Win32). The plugin is optimized for efficient operation, although some functions, like Pitch Bend, may require attention to processor resources.
Conclusion
SafFron by Fretted Synth is a powerful and flexible tool for any musician who wants to add synthesizer textures to their playing without having to master new instruments or techniques. Thanks to accurate audio signal tracking, a wide range of adjustment controls, and the MIDI output capability, SafFron becomes a valuable addition to the production tool arsenal, inspiring new musical ideas and experiments. Try SafFron and discover new sound worlds controlled by your instrument!
