Toneworks, a music technology company based in Copenhagen, Denmark, has launched its debut release, Catalyst, a revolutionary DAW plug-in that provides a new take on classic music production tools and techniques. Catalyst is equipped with a comprehensive step sequencer, harmonizer, and arpeggiator sections, capable of hosting VST and AU softsynths, allowing users to program melodies, chord progressions, and arpeggios without the use of a piano roll.
The monophonic 32-step sequencer module provides individual pitch, velocity, and gate times for each step, with users able to select a key and scale. The pitch control’s steps will automatically snap to notes within that scale, ensuring that any pattern made with the sequencer will be perfectly in tune. Users can join steps together to make longer notes and create glides if the connected synth plug-in features a legato mode. Catalyst’s five pattern slots can store different variations, and users can transpose patterns or switch between them by sending MIDI messages from the host DAW.
The sequencer’s generated notes are routed into the plug-in’s harmonizer, which can then create full chords. Users can add sixth, seventh, and ninth notes to each individual chord, or change the inversion to create progressions and transitions. A range of voicing settings provides control over how many notes are used in each chord, with options ranging from two-note power chords to wide pad chords spanning several octaves.
An arpeggiator section allows created chords to be turned into single-note patterns. Catalyst allows users to create their own arpeggiator patterns using the same set of pitch, velocity, and gate time controls as the step sequencer. Users can add notes above or below those present in the incoming chord to create longer patterns, whilst rising and falling patterns are also possible thanks to a set of dedicated editing functions.
Each of the modules can be turned on or off to be used individually or in any combination. Additionally, the sequencer, harmonizer, and arpeggiator sections are capable of sending MIDI back to the DAW, making it possible to take advantage of the plug-in’s features without directly hosting an instrument. Catalyst also features dedicated parameter sequencers that can be used to apply automation to controls, providing a comprehensive production tool for music producers.
Catalyst’s innovative approach to music production has already generated a lot of buzz, with music producers and artists praising its user-friendly design and powerful capabilities. With Toneworks’ debut release, Catalyst, music producers have access to a revolutionary plug-in that offers a new take on classic music production tools and techniques.
Catalyst is compatible with both PCs running Windows 10 or above, and Macs running macOS 10.12.6 and higher. They are available in VST, VST3 and AU plugin versions, currently being offered for a price of EUR 49. After March 31, 2023, the price tag would be EUR 79.
