Protean Transmutative Synthesizer for Generative Sound and Texture Creation

Introducing Protean: A Transmutative Synthesizer and Sound Texture Creator

Protean is a sophisticated software bundle designed for OSX and Windows 64-bit systems, requiring a minimum Apple M1 or equivalent CPU performance. It includes both the standalone Protean application and the ProteanRemote VST3/AU plugin, enabling seamless integration with digital audio workstations (DAWs). This setup allows producers and sound designers to explore generative sound and sonic-art through an innovative synthesis platform.

Advanced Particle-Based Sound Modulation

At the core of Protean’s sound design capabilities is a dynamic system where particle parameters and their collective formations act as modulation sources. These particles flow, merge, and interact within a non-gravitational fluid simulation, triggering sound generation events based on proximity thresholds. Each adjustment to the parameters causes rippling changes across both the fluid dynamics and sound rendering algorithms, offering endless possibilities for sonic exploration.

Multi-Synthesis Engine and Real-Time Modulation

Protean features multiple synthesis methods, including additive synthesis with multiple oscillators, FM synthesis with dual carriers and modulators, and modal synthesis with calibrated harmonic oscillators. Users can modulate both the fluid simulation physics and sound synthesis algorithms in real time using a comprehensive parameter set. This creates complex, evolving sound patterns with two independent particle emitters.

Technical Innovations and Audio Processing

This software represents a technical milestone by employing multi-core parallel audio processing alongside GPU compute shaders for simulation rendering. Each synth voice triggered by particles includes a dedicated feedback delay with full parameter modulation by fluid dynamics, complemented by a high-quality reverb effect. This results in a true symbiotic relationship between visual movements and sonic textures.

Control and Presets

Protean offers full control of application sliders with custom assignable MIDI CC controllers. The included Remote Control VST plugin allows users to automate parameters within their DAW, enhancing workflow flexibility. Additionally, the software comes with meticulously designed presets created by renowned sound designers Ryan Pryor, Laurent Mialon, and Daito Manabe.