Cem Olcay ShapeStage is a new AUv3 multi-stage FX processor for iOS and macOS powered by a sophisticated morphing modulation engine.
You can spend just as much time on effects as with the actual synth sound. Our sound kitchens have plenty of basic effects like delays, reverbs, etc., in hardware and software. However, effects can be way more interesting, using different concepts.
The new app from Cem Olcay combines several effects into a multi-FX processor and adds a morphing engine.
Cem Olcay ShapeStage
ShapeStage is a new AUv3 multi-FX processor plugin for iOS and macOS. The new Cem Olcay ShapeStage processor plugin uses a unique multi-stage architecture.
You can shape your sound through four distinct processing stages: A, B, C, and D. Each stage features independent parameter settings for the built-in effects. The drive slider hosts an overdrive/distortion algorithm that can provide subtle tube-like warmth to aggressive manglings.
Shape offers an algorithm that gives you shaping effects, ranging from warm tape-like saturation to edgy wave folding. Then, you can pitch shift your sounds from -12 to +12 semitones with unique stereo detune options with the drift parameter.
The motion parameter incorporates a delay (0-1000ms) with modulated feedback for flexible echo patterns. Flow uses dynamic feedback and modulation control to create movement within the time-based effects.
Cem Olcay ShapeStage also has a stereo imaging FX, aka spread control, with intense width and frequency-dependent processing. Texture is the last algorithm that houses a granular processor with variable density and character for sonic textures.
The unique key feature of this multi-stage architecture is not the algorithms but the possibility of smoothly morphing between the four stages. Pick up the big left-to-right slider to morph from one stage to another and create evolving dynamic effects.
Advanced Modulation
Morphing, yes, but the movements you can inject into the sounds can go even further. Cem Olcay also added a comprehensive, fully customizable modulation engine in the ShapeStage processor.
The mod engine hosts three flexible multi-wave LFOs with phase control and tempo sync, two loopable envelope generators with MIDI trigger input, and two envelope followers.
You can map these modulators to any sound engine parameter and manage all this via the modulation matrix, with adjustable polarity and amount controls.
First Impression
At first glance, it seems like an exciting multi-FX processor with its morphing concept. However, from what I can tell from the demo, you have to use a little less modulation to get the better effects. Everything else becomes a noisy mess unless you like that.
Cem Olcay ShapeStage is available now for $6,99 on the Apple AppStore. It runs as a standalone FX app and AUv3 FX plugin on iPads, iPhones, and macOS (native Apple Silicon only).
More information here: AppStore
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