k2get Chord Dock v2.0: Advanced MIDI Chord Plugin

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K2get has announced the release of Chord Dock v2.0, a significant update to its innovative MIDI plug-in for both Windows and macOS. This powerful software is designed to streamline the process of building, visualizing, editing, and exporting chord progressions directly within a digital audio workstation (DAW). The latest version introduces several key enhancements, most notably the new Arranger Mode, Performance Page, Song Page, and the accompanying ChordPart receiver plug-in. These additions aim to transform how producers interact with and perform their chord sequences, offering a more dynamic workflow for electronic music production. Consequently, it provides robust tools for both composition and live performance.

At its core, Chord Dock v2.0 provides a unique timeline-based workflow. Users can construct entire chord progressions visually, allowing for intuitive editing and arrangement. Furthermore, the plugin includes advanced harmonic tools such as reharmonization capabilities, tension and slash chord integration, and Circle of Fifths support. These features empower musicians to explore complex harmonic ideas with ease. For instance, the ability to generate arpeggios and basslines directly from selected sections of a progression offers a rapid way to build musical ideas. This approach ensures that progression data remains portable and consistent across different projects and DAWs, which is a significant advantage for collaborative or multi-DAW setups.

The highlight of version 2.0 is the introduction of Arranger Mode. This mode allows users to transform their chord progressions into dynamic four-part accompaniments, comprising Drums, Bass, Arp, and Chord Pad elements. Producers can build distinct patterns for each section of their song, triggering or queuing them using performance pads. The plugin also features dedicated Performance and Song pages, offering comprehensive overviews for live sets and structured songwriting. The Performance page, for example, displays 32 pads at a glance, enabling seamless section switching. Moreover, the Song page facilitates arranging pad patterns in a clear song order, complete with internal playback for arrangement checking. This makes it a versatile tool for both studio work and live improvisation.

A crucial new component is the bundled ChordPart plugin. This VST3 receiver plugin is designed to deliver each Arranger part’s MIDI output to its own dedicated DAW track. This eliminates complex routing issues often encountered when working with multi-part MIDI plugins, allowing users to assign any instrument to each part independently. ChordPart ensures a smooth workflow, regardless of how the host DAW typically routes plugin MIDI. Therefore, integrating Chord Dock’s accompaniment features into existing projects becomes straightforward and efficient.

Chord Dock v2.0 is available in several editions to suit various needs. The Lite edition remains free, offering the core timeline workflow and a demo of Arranger Mode. The Extended edition expands on harmony tools, providing deeper reharmonization, arpeggio/bassline generation, and advanced chord options. The new Performance edition unlocks the full Arranger workflow, including all pads, ChordPart functionality, and Arranger MIDI export. Finally, the Full Bundle combines all features from both the Extended and Performance editions, offering a comprehensive solution for advanced chord and accompaniment creation.

Key Features

  • Timeline-based chord editing and visualization
  • New Arranger Mode for four-part accompaniment (Drums / Bass / Arp / Chord Pad)
  • Performance and Song pages for live sets and arrangement
  • Bundled ChordPart plugin for per-part MIDI output
  • Reharmonization and Arpeggio / Bassline generation
  • Support for tensions, slash chords, and Circle of Fifths
  • Cross-DAW progression data portability
  • Section Clips and Focus Edit for structured arrangement
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Price
Intro: Extended $19.00 / Performance $19.00 / Full Bundle $29.00
Regular: Extended $24.00 / Performance $29.00 / Full Bundle $39.00
Lite: Free

System requirements include Windows 10 (64-bit) or later with a VST3-compatible DAW, or macOS 10.15 (64-bit) or later with Apple Silicon & Intel support, compatible with VST3 / AU DAWs. The installer package may also include AAX for some systems. Users can start with the free Lite version to explore the core workflow before deciding on an upgrade path. The launch pricing is a limited-time offer, available until October 1.

👍 Pros

  • ✓ Comprehensive timeline-based chord editing and visualization
  • ✓ Innovative Arranger Mode for four-part accompaniment and performance
  • ✓ Cross-DAW compatibility and MIDI export for flexible workflow

👎 Cons

  • ✗ Not designed for automatic chord detection from audio or MIDI
  • ✗ Arranger Mode sections require specific bar-line alignment

More info: k2get | Chord Dock v2.0