Sonicware LIVEN Texture Lab B-Stock
Granular Synthesiser and Granular Effect Processor
- Usable as a synthesiser and as an effect processor
- Extensive adjustment possibilities of the grain parameters via dedicated pots
- Up to 32 samples can be stored (samples can be imported and exported via MIDI)
- Sampler function
- 2 LFOs with different waveforms
- Can also be applied to grain parameters
- Filter: LPF / HPF / BPF
- 128-Step sequencer (3-voice polyphonic)
- 16 Pattern presets and 128 pattern memory locations
- Pattern chain playback and looping chain playback
- Shimmer reverb with different reverb spaces
- 3.5 mm jack sync in/out
- MIDI in/out
- Line in and out
- Headphone jack
- Built-in speaker
- Power supply via 9V DC mains adapter (not included) or 6x AA batteries
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 297 x 176 x 48 mm
- Weight: 790 g
Granular sounds in a desktop format
The Sonicware LIVEN Texture Lab is a granular synthesizer and effects processor in a desktop format. With this versatile tool for sound design, users can sample sounds, as well as transform and reconstruct them. Parameters like the density and size, as well as the length of the grain generation allow in-depth sound editing, and more diversified sounds can be created by using the 128-step sequencer to design changes in the parameters. The various presets, which were designed by renowned sound designers from all over the world, provide fast access to the right sounds for every composition. Further opportunities to shape the sound are provided by two LFOs, an envelope, and a filter, in addition to which the “Shimmer” effect can add an impressive reverberation to the user’s sounds. From soft ambient pads to chaotic, experimental sounds, the Sonicware LIVEN Texture Lab opens up a wealth of possibilities for experienced sound designers.
:format(jpeg))
Versatile and intuitive sound design
The granular processor inside the Sonicware LIVEN Texture Lab can process samples of up to six seconds, which can be broken down into grains that can be two milliseconds to one second in duration and used to create completely new sounds. Besides the shape, density, and interval of the grains, users can also change the playback speed. All parameters can be edited via ten easy-to-find knobs as well as modulated by two LFOs with selectable waveforms. Subsequently, the envelope with attack and release parameters can be used to bring the sound into shape. All connections to external devices can be easily found on the control panel and include a MIDI interface which allows notes to be played and user data and samples exported via SysEx data. Added to that, the MIDI port can also be used to carry out firmware updates.
:format(jpeg))
Granular synthesis for experienced artists
The Sonicware LIVEN Texture Lab is aimed at experienced sound designers who are looking to create varied and experimental sounds for their compositions, and its numerous parameters allow unique and exciting textures to be generated. Granular synthesis is an unusual technique for creating very special sounds, which requires a basic knowledge of the physical properties of sound as well as sound synthesis. Users who master this knowledge with ease, however, will quickly find their ideal workflow with the Sonicware LIVEN Texture Lab thanks to its intuitive user interface, which includes an LC display for viewing parameter values and also provides a flow diagramme of the entire signal path. Leaps in value can be prevented using the “Latch” function when the position of the knobs and the parameter values do not match.
:format(jpeg))
About Sonicware
Japanese company Sonicware was founded in 2004 by developer Yu Endo, a fan of digital designs and lo-fi aesthetics, including FM synthesis and 8-bit/12-bit sampling technology. The company first garnered attention in 2018 with the launch of its ELZ-1 synthesizer. The groove boxes from Sonicware’s Liven series are aimed at specific styles, such as Drum & Bass, Hip Hop, and EDM and feature integrated sequencers, effects, and an operating concept that is geared towards performance-oriented applications. The company’s SmplTrek field sampler in turn gives musicians a way to quickly record their ideas and gives them a smooth workflow for turning these into beats and grooves.
Sample processing “to go”
To load samples with a length up to six seconds into the Sonicware LIVEN Texture Lab, .wav-files need to be converted to MIDI SysEx data, which can be done via the manufacturer’s website. Users can store up to 32 samples inside the Sonicware LIVEN Texture Lab and have a range of playback options available, including the connection of a mixing desk or a monitoring speaker to the 3.5mm line output. All sounds can also be played through the integrated speaker, and a 3.5mm headphone output is also provided for silent use. This intuitive and innovative desktop synthesizer can be powered using the optional 12V power adapter or with AA batteries, the easy-to-open compartment for which is located on the bottom of the device. These features allow users to unleash their creativity in a wide variety of situations using the Sonicware Texture Lab.
