The latest arrival to Sound Particles’ product range introduces a new software synthesizer based on the same technology as their innovative SkyDust instrument.
Designed for musicians and sound designers in search of ‘organic’ sounds, GrainDust uses granular synthesis to transform samples into evolving textures, melodies and immersive soundscapes. Users are provided with four layers to work with, each of which can be loaded with samples and come equipped with their own set of independent parameters. The instrument comes loaded with over 1200 samples, and also allows users to import their own audio.
Given Sound Particles’ focus on immersive audio, it’s no surprise to see that GrainDust offers built-in support for a whole host of channel layouts that span from stereo to 7.1.4, as well as offering Binaural and Ambisonics modes. Onboard arpeggiator and polyphonic sequencer sections make quick work of programming everything from simple sequences to intricate evolving patterns, while an array of built-in effects are on hand to add the finishing touches to patches. Those with compatible controllers will be pleased to see that there’s also support for MPE.
Key Features
- Four Granular Layers: Import your own samples for each layer or explore over 1200 samples crafted for unique expression.
- Grain Parameters: Shape each layer with control over grain rate, density, size, continuity and detune.
- Sample Range Selection: Choose exactly which region of your sample generates grains, globally or per ADSR stage, for precise sculpting.
- Pitchless Grains: Add non-pitched grains in some layers, or choose which octaves to apply, to create shimmering textures and depth.
- Grain Envelope & Creation: Define how grains are formed with envelopes such as Hann, Rectangle, Triangle, Tukey or Saw.
- Built-In Movement: Animate your grains in time and space, with EGs or movement modifiers, so your sounds constantly evolve.
- MPE Support: Capture every nuance of your performance with expressive touch control.
- Arpeggiator & Sequencer: Go from simple pulses to complex evolving patterns with seven arpeggiator modes or up to 128-step polyphonic sequencing with spatial parameters and more.
- Filters & FX: EGs and LFOs with keyboard and velocity mapping, plus four FX slots.
- Spatial Audio Formats: From stereo to 7.1.4, Binaural, Ambisonics and more.
- 3D Views & Matrix: Visualise grains in 3D space and connect anything to everything.
- Even More Extras: Eight additional EGs and LFOs for deeper customisation.
“With GrainDust, every sound can move, breathe, and evolve in space, giving artists complete freedom to design creative and organic sounds.” Nuno Fonseca, Founder & CEO, Sound Particles
Compatibility
GrainDust is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or higher, and Macs running macOS 10.15 and above. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
GrainDust is available now, and is currently (29 October 2025) being offered at an introductory price of $224£179.06, reduced from its full cost of $299£239. Prices include VAT.
www.soundparticles.com/products/graindust/overview
Sound Particles 3 Beta
The company have also recently launched the Sound Particles 3 Beta, a newer, more powerful version of their all-in-one immersive audio creation platform. Headline features of the updated version include a new AI-powered assistant feature, support for third-party plug-ins, MIDI tracks and ADM support.
What’s New?
Here’s an overview of what’s been introduced in the latest version of Sound Particles:
- AI Assistant: Need a 5.1 microphone with a subtle movement? Just ask. Our built-in AI assistant sets up tracks, applies settings, and helps you fine-tune — no menus, just magic.
- Virtual Instruments: Load any virtual instrument — synths, samplers, drum machines — and assign them to stereo, surround or immersive formats like 7.1.4 or Ambisonics. Yes, even your piano can now orbit the listener.
- Third-Party Plugin Support: Insert your favourite effects at the clip, track or microphone — full creative control, wherever you need it;
- ADM Support: Native ADM integration means your particles are now objects, including object budgeting, object reuse and prioritisation. Maximum space resolution for big-screen releases.
- 20x Faster: a fully re-engineered audio engine that’s up to 20x faster than before.
- Audio Editing Tools: Now featuring Trim, Fade and Snap controls. Want even more precision? Use the independent Audio Editor for advanced, detailed editing on a per-clip basis.
- Explorer Cloud Integration: Browse and manage your own SFX library or tap into over 175,000 SFX via the built-in Explorer (Explorer Cloud subscription required).
- Built-In Space Controller: Use your smartphone as a laser pointer to position sounds in space, creating movement and depth like never before.
"Sound Particles 3 is a paradigm shift in the way creators approach sound. With the new AI, ADM and DAW features all working together on top of this unique audio software, Sound Particles 3 helps you unleash your creativity, doing things never thought possible before." - Nuno Fonseca, CEO and Founder of Sound Particles
Compatibility
Sound Particles 3 Beta is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or higher, and Macs running macOS 10.15 and above. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Sound Particles 3 Beta is available now, and is currently (29 October 2025) available at the following introductory prices:
- Sound Particles 3 Artist: $149£119.03
- Sound Particles 3 Professional: $370£298.69
- Sound Particles 3 Enterprise: $1490£1190.27
Prices include VAT.
Those who purchase the software will also be granted access to Sound Particles 2 until the latest version’s full release.
