16 Drones

16 Drones

Ambient Drone Synth AUv3

10 ratings
2 reviews
Free
In-App Purchases

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • April 6, 2026
  • July 1, 2026

Features

16 Drones screenshot #1 for iPhone
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16 Drones screenshot #5 for iPhone
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About

Create evolving soundscapes and harmonic textures with a powerful ambient drone synthesizer. Shape layered drones using custom wavetables and envelopes, then perform expressively in key. Offers deep timbral control and flexible MIDI integration.

16 drone voices for layered textures
Custom wavetable synthesis
Per-voice drone envelopes
Subtractive synthesis layer
Expressive in-key performance voice
Support for musical scales
Standalone and AUv3 operation
MIDI input and learn
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What's New in 16 Drones

3.2

July 1, 2026

Scala import and clearer microtonal tuning feedback. Scala Import - Import Scala .scl tuning files directly from the Tuning tab. - Imported Scala tunings appear as User Scala options in the Tuning selector. Microtonal Feedback - Fine Tune now shows clear cents values while editing. - Unquantize shows its cents range for easier calibration.

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In-App Purchases

$11.99

16 Drones Pro

Unlock AUv3, advanced MIDI, scales, and preset features

User reviews

The dev is really great !

Such a great app if you’re into frequency stuff and/or ambient soundtracks - infinitely tweakable!

Too many restrictions on the free version

If you are going to a make a demo version of the app it should be fully featured save for preventing preset saving and even AUV3 use which are acceptable trial restrictions. But this game of siphoning off features here and there makes it unattractive and prevents the user from knowing the plugin’s usefullness. I was going to try it out to see if I might want to buy it, but when I discovered I could not even connect my midi controller without the pro version I gave up. You would do well to offer this as a paid app from the start or make a more limited fully functional free version (say with 8 lanes instead of 16) rather than playing this feature withholding game.
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Response from developer

Thanks for taking the time to leave detailed feedback — I completely understand your perspective. In version 2.0, MIDI input is now enabled, so users can try the app with external MIDI controllers before deciding whether the Pro features fit their workflow. The Pro features help support the continued development of the app and future updates. Apps like this are often created by independent developers rather than large companies, so finding the right balance between a useful free version and sustainable development can sometimes be challenging. I truly appreciate the feedback, and comments like yours help improve future versions of the app.

Developer apps

FAQ

What kind of music can I create with 16 Drones?

16 Drones is designed for creating ambient textures, evolving soundscapes, and harmonic drones. Its features are geared towards generating rich, atmospheric sounds suitable for electronic music, film scores, or experimental audio.

Does 16 Drones support external MIDI controllers?

Yes, 16 Drones fully supports MIDI input for performance and control. It also includes MIDI Learn functionality for fast hardware mapping, allowing you to easily assign controls to your preferred MIDI devices.

Can I use 16 Drones with other music apps?

Absolutely. 16 Drones operates as both a standalone application and an AUv3 instrument, meaning it can be integrated into compatible iOS DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) for more complex productions.

How does the 'Play voice' feature work in 16 Drones?

The dedicated Play voice in 16 Drones is designed for expressive performance. It stays within the same musical scale you've selected, allowing you to improvise melodies and harmonies without hitting dissonant notes.

What is the update frequency for 16 Drones?

The app was last updated on 2026-06-04, indicating active development. While specific update frequency isn't detailed, the recent update suggests ongoing support and potential improvements.

Is 16 Drones suitable for beginners?

While 16 Drones offers deep timbral control, it also aims to be immediate. The inclusion of factory presets and a dedicated performance voice can help beginners explore its capabilities quickly.

What devices are compatible with 16 Drones?

16 Drones is compatible with both iPhone and iPad devices, running on iOS. It has an age rating of 4+, making it accessible for a wide range of users.

Does 16 Drones have ads?

No, 16 Drones does not contain advertisements. Its monetization model is free with in-app purchases, meaning you can download and use the core features without interruption from ads.