Example usage

version 2.3

Example of version 2.3 showing off the overhauled interface (removed some long standing idiosyncracies!) and taking the application through its paces.

Turning dials and wreaking havoc

On display is version 2.1.2 running on a 7" tablet, demonstrating how you can expand upon an idea by looping a theme and adjusting the synthesis properties, adding live improvisations on top, and basically how to create a big noise on a small device ;)

version 2.0

Example of version 2.0.1 showing off the overhauled interface, optimized tablet layout, all-new arpeggiator, secondary tuneable oscillator and fine tuned drum sounds by putting the effects units through their paces.

Improved keyboard response

Example of version 1.5.0 showing off the improved keyboard response using the new low latency audio engine. Some other general features of the sequencer and effects are demonstrated by a short showcase of the new factory demos.

Quick usage example and demos

Example of version 1.3.1 showing off the drum machine's new sounds and features in an example where a beat is quickly arranged, along with displaying general features of the synthesizer.

Further demonstrated are a few factory demos displaying a few of the sounds and timbres which can be achieved using the modulators and effects.

Bubbling basslines at breakneck speed

Example of version 1.2.9 showing off a sketch of frenetic, fast paced, bubbly acid basslines.

As of this version it is possible to alter the properties of multiple controls at once, allowing the more tactile users more scope for modulation.

Quickly sketching some sounds

Example of version 1.2.5 featuring a sketch made from the ground up beginning in MikroWaves default mode, displaying all the audio modifying properties available to the application.

From this version onwards the drummachine also benefits from modifiers such as bit crushing and the now ubiquitous Jennifer Lo-Pass filter. When combined with the Polly delay-line some very alien percussive sounds can be created.

Creating a tune from the beat up

As of version 1.2 MikroWave has (finally) gained a drum machine. Now its possible to both add rhythmic accompaniment to your tunes as it is to build a song up from a percussive rhythm.

The drum sounds are synthesized and thus more abstract than a sampled/acoustic kit, altough it mimics the same properties. The kick is modelled after the 50 Hz thump of a 808 machine, though it has a higher harmonic element so it's actually audible through your phone's speaker!

Up to four different patterns can be created to swap underneath your sequenced melodies.

Bit crushing and metallic twang

As of version 1.1 MikroWave is equipped with the Mangler bit crusher, an effect that reduces the resolution of sound, degrading its quality and harking back to 80s videogames.

The Polly delay has been modified to also cater for shorter slapback / reverb-style effects which emulate the sound of early spring reverbs well.

Coupled with the new "waveform" implementing the Karplus-Strong algorithm (basically imitating a plucked string) there's plenty of metallic ring on offer.

Basic grid navigation and a 303 sound...

This video shows the basics of the sequencer and how to achieve a sound similar to the squelchy bass lines of the Roland 303.

For a good bass sound, a sawtooth waveform at a low octave range provides plenty of buzz-saw attitude, while a square wave gets us in the 303 ballpark. Addition of a nicely resonant Jennifer Lo-pass filter adds to the funky-ness, especially if the 2nd oscillator continuously modulates the cut off frequency.

Note that the video is from release 1.0 and certain interface elements have migrated in the latest release.