Asper

Asper is an innovative synthesizer that fuses several sound generation methods, including wavetable synthesis, subtractive synthesis, phase distortion, and physical modeling. The synth aims to provide a unique sound design experience by incorporating humanization at the oscillator level, which simulates the natural variation found in real-world instruments. Rather than imitating the behavior of analog synthesizers, Asper introduces a Round Robin simulation that ensures each note or hit sounds slightly different.

Humanization and Round Robin Simulation

The humanization aspect is integral to Asper’s design. By implementing Round Robin behavior, Asper replicates the nuances of acoustic instruments where no two sounds are identical. This approach is particularly effective at the oscillator level, impacting both the wavetable and noise oscillators. Round Robin differs from traditional analog emulation in that it focuses on variation in each note rather than just the modulation of sound parameters.

Dual Layer Oscillator Control

Asper’s wavetable oscillator is divided into two distinct layers, each with its own controls, allowing for advanced sound shaping. This dual-layer approach gives the user flexibility to fine-tune aspects like attack and velocity independently, without requiring complex modulation setups. Each layer can be detuned, and features such as comb filters, pitch envelopes, and phase distortion can be applied individually. Moreover, the blending controls offer individual shape settings for each layer, and users can activate an inverse mode to achieve varying amounts or phases using the same MIDI CC or velocity control.

Wavetable Oscillator Features

• 118 Wavetable Options: Asper comes equipped with 118 different wavetables, offering extensive possibilities for sound design. These can be combined in various ways across the two layers for unique timbres.
• Comb Filter: Each of the two wavetable layers can have its own comb filter, which enhances the harmonic content of the sound.
• Phase Distortion: Users can apply phase distortion to each layer independently, with five distinct shapes available and the ability to detune each shape for more complex tonal variation.

Modulation and Control

Asper offers multiple modulation and shaping tools that enhance its versatility:

• Phase Distortion Modulation: Includes a synchronization option, which can align phase changes with a set tempo or rate, enabling rhythmic modulation of the sound.
• Blending Modes: Users can set the blending mode based on velocity or control it with an assignable MIDI CC. This allows for dynamic interaction between layers, shaping the sound in response to playing style or external control inputs.
• Morphing Controls: The shape of morphing between different waveforms, filters, and frequency modulation amounts can be customized, using curves that range from exponential to logarithmic.

Filter and Effects

• Filter: Asper provides a filter that can operate in parallel or serial mode, allowing for a wide range of sonic possibilities. The filter has its own modulation section, enabling dynamic control over the cutoff frequency and resonance.
• Shaper and Saturation: Two shaping modes are included, along with saturation capabilities, offering a way to add warmth, distortion, or subtle harmonic enhancement to the sound.
• Portamento and Vibrato: Portamento is available for monophonic patches, with adjustable triggering based on velocity. The vibrato module offers additional expression and modulation options.

Advanced Interface and Usability Features

Asper’s interactive GUI is designed with ease of use in mind. Every element within the interface provides tooltips or details when hovered over, ensuring that users can quickly understand and modify any parameter. Controls with assignable MIDI CC have an additional display that shows the assigned controller, making it easy to manage external hardware integration.

• Envelope Control: Each envelope section offers six quick sub-presets for faster sound shaping, allowing users to experiment with different attack, decay, sustain, and release settings.
• Ensemble Module: Asper also includes an ensemble module, which can simulate unison for richer, thicker sounds or even create reverb-like effects.
• Soft Clipper: To prevent unwanted digital clipping, Asper features a soft clipper that can be disabled if needed. This ensures that the output remains clean and balanced even at higher levels.

Randomization and Preset Management

One of Asper’s standout features is its randomization option, available for nearly every subsection of the synth. This opens the door to creative exploration, allowing users to quickly generate new ideas or discover unexpected sound textures. In addition, Asper includes a simple preset manager, making it easy to save and recall favorite settings or explore a library of built-in sounds.

Adjustable Interface

The GUI is customizable in terms of size, with scaling options ranging from 80% to 150%, ensuring that the interface remains readable and accessible on various screen resolutions.

Asper is a versatile synthesizer that balances experimental sound design with practical features. Whether you’re looking to create evolving textures, complex rhythmic patterns, or rich, harmonic timbres, Asper’s combination of wavetable synthesis, phase distortion, and humanization tools offers a wide range of possibilities.