Synplant’s new PhenoType tech uses neural nets for more alien patches

It’s the absolute opposite of “AI” as you’ve seen it. There’s no online connection, no giant data set. And here, neural nets help you to escape generic presets and defaults — not lead you into them. The new PhenoType for Sonic Charge Synplant will help you precisely define the ear-bending alien sounds you want to create in words. CDM got an early look.

Ableton Extensions will let you code your own tools and actions for Live

You run up against a limitation in Ableton Live, or you’ve got a creative idea. What if you could make it happen using code? That’s the Ableton Extension SDK, out in public beta now (JavaScript, TypeScript, Node.js). And just like that, we’ve got Live with handy new workflows, opening up scores, connecting to the Web, and playing games. Here’s what it means, and what it can and can’t do (so far).

Peter Kirn - June 2, 2026

The joy of Splines, a module that can make anything from curves

It’s an oscillator, a step sequencer, a modulation and envelope source, a quantizer (with custom tunings) — even a scope, thanks to its interactive, animated visual interface. Thorn Audio’s new Eurorack module can make anything from elegant, precise curves. It’s more than just another do-everything module. Now you’re playing with Splines.

Peter Kirn - May 26, 2026

Link Audio, now in Max, Pd, VCV Rack, TouchDesigner, oF, and plug-ins, free

Peter Kirn - May 3, 2026

SonicSketch DAW interface with audio controls, post-processing for image, and audio effects. In the center, the Indaw Anticline visualized seismic data, with a waveform puck in red moving across a teal path through the black and white image.

Live out your Xenakis fantasies, free in your browser, with SonicSketch

Peter Kirn - February 9, 2026

Watch as a telephone is transformed into a DIY analog drum machine

Peter Kirn - January 9, 2026

What’s new in the DIY world of Music Thing’s Workshop System

Peter Kirn - January 7, 2026

A free emulator of Roland JP-8000 and the love of supersaws and trance

Peter Kirn - December 30, 2025

Airwindows VerbThic, VerbTiny let you go even more rabid for reverb, for free

Peter Kirn - December 3, 2025