Rippler is a software synthesizer built around a combination of modal synthesis and subtractive synthesis techniques.
The instrument uses banks of resonators to generate sounds without samples, with bi-directional energy coupling between resonators and two independent synthesis layers. Each layer can use parallel or serial resonator routing, with additional oscillators, filters, modulation sources, and effects processing.
Rippler supports MPE, aftertouch, micro-tuning, MIDI tuning systems, and audio input routed into the resonator system.
Features:
- Modal synthesis engine using banks of resonators to generate sounds without samples
- Bi-directional energy coupling between resonators
- Dual-layer synthesis architecture with parallel and serial resonator routing
- Two oscillators and two filters per synthesis layer
- Twelve acoustic models based on mathematical formulas and FEM analysis
- Models include String, Drumhead, Beam, Djembe, Squared, Vibraphone, Bell, Marimba, Membrane, Open Tube, Plate, and Closed Tube
- Multiple modulation sources can be assigned to parameters
- Drag-and-drop modulation routing system
- Custom modulation response curves using Mod Mapping
- Modular effects architecture with 13 master effects and 12 effects per layer
- MPE support with per-note pitch bend, pressure, and slide control
- Aftertouch support
- Micro-tuning support using Scala .scl and .kbm files
- MIDI Tuning Standard (MTS) support
- Audio input routing into resonators synchronized with played notes
- Manual Mode for user-defined tuning and resonator configurations
- 441 sound presets
- 32 exciter samples
- 10 arpeggiator presets
- 64 LFO shapes
- Available as Audio Unit, VST3, and AAX plugin formats
- Compatible with macOS and Windows systems
Pricing & Availability:
reFX Rippler is available now for $99 USD (normally $129).
I just purchased and gave it a quick test. It’s a very full-featured, intuitive UI, and nicely designed product.
One minor bug is that the mouse cursor can disappear when editing the envelopes, but it quickly reappears. My only other minor gripe is the lack of release velocity as a control source. I understand that it can’t be used for every parameter, but I really wish more developers would recognize that it is very nice to use release velocity to control the release time– or to be able to trigger a sound on key-up and control it’s level.
The sound sculpting options are versatile and powerful. Seems like the demos lean on synth tones, but this is also very capable of making natural acoustic sounds, even if they aren’t “accurate” simulations of existing instruments.
I’m excited to get to know this instrument. I’m optimistic that the developer (and refx) will continue to refine this cool synth.
It definitely shows its loose Chromaphone genes. Its also a step up by inviting you to use your own samples as impulses. I’m curious about how that might work out. The added VA layer is a smart addition for more oomph, too.
ReFX made a smart move by opening up Nexus, turning it into a major synth. Rippler is well-polished. The chances are good that it’ll be popular. Every third synth seems to look like Serum, but hey, that’s one of the definitions of being a synth. Form follows function follows fun-time.
I’m enjoying getting to know Rippler. It’s much more customizable than Chromaphone, and pretty intuitive.
The only bug I’ve noticed is that my mouse cursor/arrow disappears with most adjustments and I have to move off the window and back on to get it back. I’ll report that.
So far I don’t see any available documentation. The main thing I can’t find is where/how to set the “bi-directional energy coupling between resonators”