Stillheten

Stillheten is the first software I developed using Max in 2011.

The main idea behind the project was to work with sounds as if they were mathematical vectors.
Stillheten has 6 independent modules therefore in linear algebra Stillheten would have 6 dimensions.

These are the modules, or “dimensions”, involved:
Dim1: GRAIN2 – granular processing module based on gran.pitch.file~ object by Nathan Wolek.
Dim2: BLANKET – system of delay lines with non linear distortion feedback.
Dim3: SOLARSURF – rhythmic sinewaves generator.
Dim4: SPECFIL – pink noise spectral filter with reverb and distortion.
Dim5: F-RECS – loop player with 5 bands EQ.
Dim6: SKYR – frequency shifter.

Each module has several stored presets (e.g. GRAIN2 has 160 presets, 80 for the processing parameters and 80 for the panning) that can be selected either independently inside the module itself or through a global “scenes selector” that takes snapshots of the whole set and also provides an interpolation between the captured scenes.
Different set of presets can be saved for the same module and they can be selected in real time during the performance in order to obtain a wide range of sonic results. The whole set is controlled via keyboard (preset recall and enable/disable of the modules), mouse and MIDI controller (preset definition and parameter tweaking). The live performance is an “improvised interaction within the 6 dimensions” of the generated space whose variations are constantly influenced by the performer who alters and redefines the parameters of the processing/synthesis. The software can also “perform” autonomously: the auto function enables the full randomization of all the main parameters.

A simplified version of the software was also used in the making of K-frame, the debut EP of the project Zbeen.