Dyad is a two-voice percussion synthesizer and sequencer inspired by the grit and immediacy of analog hardware. Each voice is paired with a sequencer that programs both rhythms and parameter modulation, becoming an integral part of sound creation.
All sounds & effects made with Dyad & Retur
The voices collide with thru-zero linear FM, creating organic patterns where they modulate one another in a flurry of polymeters and clock dividers. It's a playful canvas to get lost in, full of happy accidents and unexpected combinations. Dyad also comes bundled with four extra devices each based on our favorite parts; a classic monosynth, a drum synth, a step-modulator and a distortion effect.
Virtual Analog Core
Dyad features beautifully imperfect virtual analog oscillators with thru-zero linear FM. Inspired by the sounds of our favorite vintage gear, of circuits pushed too far and inputs run too hot. Embrace the hiss, the clipping and the drift. Not a fan? Too bad Try the clean setting.
Paired with a colorful noise generator and pitch-envelope, the oscillators are processed through a 4-pole non-linear lowpass filter attenuated by an exponential decay envelope and chucked through a distortion effect which range from subtle grit to absolute mayhem. Lastly, a DJ-style hi/lo-cut filter is used to tame the final frequencies.
This deceptively simple voice topology paired with the sequencer modulation and the bi-directional FM is not only fun to program but has a wide range of sounds to explore.
Patterns of Modulation
While programmed with ease like a classic drum machine, each step of the sequencer in Dyad can cause a multitude of change– from simple melodies to a completely new sound. With independent track lengths and clock dividers, it's easy to make simple patterns that sound complex. Pattern changes are instantaneous, automatable and modulatable– you can even put an LFO on it.
The sequencer and its relationship to the synthesizer parameters is a carefully selected balance in order to be able to expand on the features using automation and other modulation devices in Live. It's built to handle any form of control, even in audiorate.
Dyad and its sequencer is fully integrated on the Push 2 and 3 in both tethered and standalone mode. Get the full hardware groovebox experience alongside your Live session or abandon your computer and take Dyad on the go to make new patterns and sounds in the wild.
Good things come in pairs
And when it rains it pours. Dyad is bundled with four other devices based on our favorite of its parts.
Para Synthesizer
Para is the sister synthesizer to Dyad. Based on the same virtual analog core, it expands on the oscillator's functionality and frames the components in a classic monosynth setting that puts focus on the directness and simplicity of its controls. With a different filter topology, distortion type and ring modulation, Para can make all sorts of chaotic noises alongside beautiful classic subtractive sounds.
To sum it up
... and yes, you can change and
customize the color theme in Dyad.
Want to learn more?
Requirements
Dyad is a Max for Live device and requires Ableton Live Suite (or standard with the Max for Live add-on) to use. It is not compatible with any other DAW.
Note: the Modul device is currently not fully Push controllable.