XenFont: Hybrid Synthesis and Microtonality in Your Hands
Meet XenFont by Xen-Arts – a unique VST instrument that breaks the familiar boundaries between sampling and synthesis. This plugin is a powerful hybrid that combines the ability to load and process your own SoundFont (SF2) files with the flexibility of subtractive synthesis. If you’re looking for a tool for in-depth sound design, experimenting with alternative intonation systems, and creating truly original timbres, XenFont will become your indispensable assistant.
Forget about the limitations of standard modes and notation systems. XenFont fully supports MIDI Pitch Microtuning according to the MTS (MIDI Tuning Standard), allowing you to freely microtune any MIDI note to the desired pitch across the entire range. This opens up endless possibilities for composers and musicians who want to explore the rich world of microtonal music, create their own modes, or reproduce historical and ethnic modes with absolute precision.
The Heart of XenFont: Hybrid Architecture
XenFont is based on an innovative combination of two oscillators: one works as a sampler for SF2 files, and the other as a source for subtractive synthesis. The ability to load your own SF2 libraries means you’re not limited by the incoming timbres – from classic acoustic instruments to exotic soundscapes. The most interesting part starts when you route these sampled oscillators through the internal synthesis functions of XenFont. This routing allows you to radically transform the initial sounds, creating completely new, unique synthesized timbres that combine the character of the samples with the dynamics and flexibility of synthesis.
Intuitive Sound Design and Microtonality
The developers of XenFont have paid special attention to ergonomics and workflow. The instrument has a unique “buttonless” design, where all the main parameters are controlled exclusively by sliders. This approach provides direct and intuitive control using a computer mouse. For fine-tuning, you can also enter values directly into fields, use drop-down lists, arrows, and switches.
Key Features of XenFont:
- Full support for loading custom SF2 SoundFonts into a hybrid microtonal VSTi that combines sampling and subtractive synthesis.
- “Buttonless” design with slider control for intuitive control.
- A dedicated control signal system tied to the most important synthesis functions.
- Flexible adjustment of parameters through input fields, lists, arrows, and switches.
- Ability to precisely specify microtonal Pitch-Bend settings.
- Availability of arbitrary microtonal oscillator transposition settings.
- Velocity-based harmonic modulation, allowing dynamic playback of harmonics of the fundamental tone.
- ADSR envelope generators with independent keyboard tracking for each stage.
XenFont by Xen-Arts is more than just a synthesizer or sampler. It’s a tool for true sound experimenters and composers who seek to go beyond the ordinary. Its hybrid architecture and deep microtonality support make it an ideal choice for creating unique sound palettes, exploring non-Western musical traditions, or simply adding originality to your tracks. Download XenFont and start your journey into a world of endless sonic possibilities!
