TALLBOY: Pitch-Tracking Chiptune Re-Synth from Carbonated Audio

Carbonated Audio has released TALLBOY, a unique pitch-tracking re-synthesiser that rebuilds incoming audio through a modeled four-channel console sound chip. Instead of simply filtering or degrading the source, TALLBOY follows the pitch and envelope of the input to recreate the performance on chip-style voices. This approach offers a fresh take on chiptune and bitcrushing effects, appealing to producers looking for creative sound design tools.

How TALLBOY Works

TALLBOY processes audio by tracking its pitch and amplitude, then replays it through a virtual sound chip with four distinct channels. These include two pulse channels with four duty cycles, a 32-sample 4-bit wavetable, and a 15/7-bit LFSR noise generator triggered by transients. This design allows for authentic retro tones while maintaining musical responsiveness.

The plugin features three cartridges that run in series, each of which can be inserted or ejected independently. The CHIP 4CH RESYNTH cartridge handles pitch tracking and chip voice generation. The ARP + GLIDE SEQUENCER locks to host tempo, offering arpeggiation from 1/4 to 1/32 across one to four octaves, with portamento up to 400 ms. The CRUSH ROM DECIMATOR provides bit reduction from 1 to 16 bits, rate division up to 64 with jitter, and a post filter ranging from 18 kHz down to 540 Hz.

With all cartridges ejected, TALLBOY passes audio untouched, nulling against the dry signal. This ensures transparency when the effect is bypassed, making it easy to compare processed and unprocessed audio.

Interface and Controls

Instead of traditional knobs, TALLBOY uses a D-pad and a four-shade dot-matrix display to control parameters. Each cartridge offers six parameters, selected via the on-screen menu. This interface might feel unconventional, but it adds to the retro aesthetic and keeps the workflow focused.

The plugin is available for $20, and a free demo can be downloaded without requiring an email address. This low price point makes it accessible for experimental producers, while the demo allows testing before purchase.

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