Madrona Labs release Sumu

Published 24/11/24

New semi-modular soft synth officially launches

Following an extensive Early Access programme that saw months of refinement based on testing and user feedback, Madrona Labs have announced that their latest software instrument is now available to all.

Designed to provide users with an easy-to-use semi-modular synthesizer capable of turning static samples into dynamic soundscapes, Sumu comes loaded with 64 independent pairs of oscillators that each feature FM, noise, a low-passable gate and their own spatial placement parameters. It also includes Vutu, a separate conversion application that allows users to load and resynthesise their own sample libraries into the instrument for processing.

Modules

Sumu is based the following modules:

Partials: Analysed samples are displayed as a 3D map of 64 partials and are equipped with pitch, level and noise envelopes designed to make it easier to harness the power of additive synthesis.
Envelopes: Use one ADSR envelope per partial with individual triggering and global shaping of volume or timbre. Shape them as a group, and take advantage of a 64-channel trigger input for new creative possibilities.
Pulses: The Pulses module provides two modulation sources for every partial which always trigger in sync and offer their own timbral, rhythmic and dynamic options. They can create modulations focused on certain frequency ranges, or can be used to trigger Envelopes at different times.
Patcher: Offers a modular synth-like approach to patching, allowing users to connect up to 13 signals between the inputs and outputs of different modules. Multiple inputs can be fed from a single output and vice-versa.
Scope: This module displays a graph to help users keep track of their multi-channel signals.
Oscillators: Each partial is equipped with a carrier-modulator pair (plus noise), with all parameters capable of being controlled by the above modules on a per-partial basis.
Gates: Sculpt patches using 64 VCAs or LPGs.
Space: Position 64 partials across the sound field with continuous spatialised motion based on the vector field selected. Partials are independently Doppler-shifted, allowing for the creation of rich, evolving sounds.
Res: A non-linear, 24dB/octave ladder filter Inspired by the classic Moog design. Adds some powerful tone-shaping features and a small amount of analogue-inspired distortion.

Sumu comes with over 100 presets, and a library of over 100 different scales that allow users to easily explore a range of alternate tunings. It also responds to MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression), offering a wealth of expressive performance capabilities to those with compatible hardware controllers.