Today VST a Day is proud to bring you this Additive Synthesis VST by ToneBytes. ToneBytes makes a variety of freebies, as well as premium instruments – so you may be surprised that we have never featured them before. This is simply because of the loads of free VSTs we have in the queue to post about (stay tuned!). Make no mistake, ToneBytes makes quality VSTs.

The Harmonaut instrument will gain fans among those who like a clean VST interface on their instruments. The instrument itself has 32 drawable harmonics settings – what that means is this; ToneBytes has carved out 32 frequency ranges, which they allow you to populate with the harmonic output of this synth. If you happen to know the frequency spectrums you are aiming to fill beforehand, while programming the instrument, this can be a tremendous boon. Instead of using the usual process of creating the instrument and then using an EQ to fit it in the mix, you can craft a generator that fits in your mix from the get-go. This can be a fine alternative, and generate unique sounds which you otherwise would not have been able to create easily through generative synthesis and subsequent EQ.

The harmonics can be drawn in by clicking the faux “LCD display” of the instrument with the mouse. Envelopes can then be applied, and if desired, a filter can be applied right from the instrument. If you have never played with additive synthesis, I recommend you give it a try – if you are only used to the subtractive synthesis options in instruments like Massive, or Abletons native Operator, you will expose yourself to a world of sound previously untouched. This particular instrument is a free “exposure” to the world of additive synthesis, however manufacturers such as Roland, Korg and many others have additive synthesis offerings in the premium (paid) sphere that are also worth a look.

As always, let us know what you think in the comments!

Free VST Download Link: http://download.cnet.com/Harmonaut/3000-2169_4-75914189.html?part=dl-&subj=dl&tag=button
Free VST Download Page: http://tonebytes.com/harmonaut/