The music production world is buzzing with the launch of Essession's TouchMod plugins, a game-changer for those who crave a more tactile and intuitive approach to controlling their virtual instruments and effects. This innovative release challenges the traditional mouse-driven workflow, offering a fresh perspective on parameter control.
The TouchMod Revolution
Essession's TouchMod IN and TouchMod FX plugins are designed to transform the way producers and musicians interact with their digital audio workstations (DAWs). By utilizing multitouch technology, these plugins enable users to manipulate multiple parameters simultaneously with their fingers, creating dynamic and expressive performances.
One of the standout features is the ability to assign each finger to control two parameters at once, one on the X-axis and another on the Y-axis. This means that with just four fingers, users can control up to eight parameters, opening up a world of creative possibilities. Imagine the expressive potential of opening a filter while simultaneously adjusting resonance, or shaping delay feedback and repeats with a single gesture!
Beyond MIDI
What sets TouchMod apart from standard touchscreen MIDI controllers is its direct interaction with VST3 writable parameters. Instead of relying on MIDI CC mappings, TouchMod works directly with the plugin's exposed parameters, allowing for a more seamless and intuitive control experience. Users can assign parameters by simply nudging a control in Learn mode or selecting from the plugin's list, and even adjust the parameter's range or reverse it to ensure musical results.
Layered Instruments and Effects
TouchMod IN and TouchMod FX take the concept of layered instruments and effects to a new level. TouchMod IN allows users to load two VST3 instruments within a single instance, enabling parameters from both instruments to be controlled from the same pad. Similarly, TouchMod FX hosts two effects and routes them in series or parallel, creating a cohesive and playable setup rather than a collection of separate plugin windows. This streamlined approach simplifies the production process and encourages more fluid creativity.
Capturing Gestures and Loops
The Loop Learning feature in TouchMod is a powerful tool for capturing and playing back gestures as continuous movements. Users can adjust the speed and amplitude of the looped gesture in real-time, and even layer a second gesture on top for added complexity. This feature adds a human element to the performance, as the looped movement retains the shape and feel of a hand-performed gesture, unlike the fixed mathematical cycles of an LFO.
Accessibility and Flexibility
TouchMod plugins are designed for flexibility and accessibility. They can run on a Windows multitouch display or a second screen connected to the computer, providing users with various setup options. Additionally, the free TouchMod Remote app extends the control surface to an iPad over local Wi-Fi, allowing the DAW and plugin windows to remain on the main screen while the iPad serves as a dedicated controller. This setup ensures a seamless and focused workflow without the need for an internet connection.
A New Era for Producers and Musicians
Essession's TouchMod plugins represent a significant step forward in the world of music production, offering a more tactile and engaging way to control virtual instruments and effects. By embracing multitouch technology and direct parameter control, TouchMod empowers producers, sound designers, and electronic musicians to play their parameters with precision and creativity. With its innovative features and intuitive design, TouchMod is set to revolutionize the way we interact with our digital audio tools.
So, if you're ready to embrace a more expressive and hands-on approach to music production, give TouchMod a try. And the best part? Both TouchMod IN and TouchMod FX are currently available as free 64-bit VST3 plugins for Windows until September 15, 2026. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock a new dimension of musical control and creativity!
