# GrainHeads — Granular sampler/synthesizer > Granular synthesizer for experimental sound design and music production. (iPhone/iPad app by Andrei Nevar.) - Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/grainheads/id6760582834 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`) - Developer: [Andrei Nevar](https://appshunter.io/developer/1885164055) - Category: Music - Price: Free with in-app purchases - Rating: 4.70/5 from 14 App Store ratings - Age rating: 4+ - Requires: iOS 17.6 · 111 MB - Languages: American English, French (France), German (Germany), Italian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese (Simplified, China) - Released: 2026-03-21 - Data updated: 2026-08-19 - Monetization: free - User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/grainheads/id6760582834/reviews.md ## What is GrainHeads? GrainHeads is a granular synthesizer that turns any sound into something entirely new. Built for sound designers, musicians, and experimental producers who want deep, hands-on control over texture and motion. Multi-source granular engine Load material into four sample slots and deploy independent playheads — each targeting its own source. Blend, crossfade, or dynamically switch between samples using modulation. The result: rich, multi-layered textures that evolve continuously without repetition. Shape every grain Each playhead carries a full set of granular parameters — position, scan speed, grain size, pitch, chance — plus a drawable grain envelope. Sculpt transient character using splinter or Bézier curves for anything from soft clouds to sharp, percussive fragments. Modulate everything, from everywhere A summing modulation matrix lets multiple sources target the same parameter simultaneously. Assign LFOs, envelopes, and sequencer lanes to virtually any control — including sample slot selection, filter cutoff, and even other LFOs. Filter envelopes add per-step timbral motion in Sequencer mode. Sequencer with parameter lanes Go beyond note patterns. The step sequencer locks any parameter per step — pitch, position, filter, grain size — with polyrhythmic lengths and clock divisions. Each playhead runs its own sequence independently. Macros for expressive control Four macro axes map multiple parameters to simple X/Y gestures — Time Smear, Spatial Bloom, Degradation, Complexity. Combined with the 4-finger 2D touch pad controlling up to 8 parameters, GrainHeads becomes a performance instrument. Effects that reshape the signal A re-routable effects chain includes delay, reverb, lo-fi degradation, and filtering — with adjustable signal flow so effects interact in the order you choose. Key Features • AUv3 instrument and effect plugins — use standalone or inside your DAW • Up to 8 independent granular playheads • 4 sample slots with per-playhead source selection • Drawable grain envelope (splinter / Bézier curves) • Summing modulation matrix — multiple LFOs, envelopes, and sequencer lanes per target • LFO-on-LFO modulation for deeply nested movement • Step sequencer with parameter locking and polyrhythmic clock divisions • Filter envelope per step (Sequencer mode) • Per-playhead dual Moog-style ladder filter (self-oscillating, with overdrive) with link and mirror modes • 4 macro axes (X/Y pads) for multi-parameter gestures • Re-routable effects section (delay, reverb, lo-fi, noise, limiter) • Scale quantization — chromatic, major, minor, and exotic modes • Dice — one-tap randomization for instant inspiration • Ableton Link • Import/export presets • Customizable look and feel PRO version unlocks loading external samples and microphone recording. GrainHeads turns granular synthesis into a hands-on instrument — not a menu-diving exercise. ## Key features - Multi-source granular engine - Shape individual grains with envelopes - Summing modulation matrix - Step sequencer with parameter lanes - Macros for expressive control - Re-routable effects chain ## Pricing and in-app purchases Base price: Free. **One-time purchases** | Purchase | Price | Type | | --- | --- | --- | | Unlock GrainHeads Pro | $11.99 | one-time | ## Frequently asked questions about GrainHeads ### What is GrainHeads? GrainHeads is a granular synthesizer that transforms any sound into new textures. It allows for deep, hands-on control over sound elements for experimental music production and sound design. ### What devices does GrainHeads support? GrainHeads is available on iPhone and iPad devices. ### What is the age rating for GrainHeads? GrainHeads has an age rating of 4+, making it suitable for a wide range of users. ### How often is GrainHeads updated? GrainHeads was last updated on May 30, 2026, indicating active development and potential for regular updates. ### What kind of sounds can I create with GrainHeads? You can create rich, multi-layered textures that evolve continuously, from soft clouds to sharp, percussive fragments, by shaping individual grains and using complex modulation. ### Does GrainHeads have ads? No, GrainHeads does not contain advertisements. ### What are the key features of GrainHeads' modulation system? GrainHeads features a summing modulation matrix allowing multiple sources like LFOs and envelopes to target parameters simultaneously, enabling deeply nested movement and complex sonic evolution. ### Can GrainHeads be used in a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)? Yes, GrainHeads functions as an AUv3 instrument and effect plugin, allowing it to be used standalone or within your preferred DAW. ## Version history (last 5 releases) ### 4.8 — 2026-08-11 fixed various UI issues in AU mode related to storing/recalling presets and Lo-Fi fx being left channel only ### 4.7 — 2026-08-10 Fixes Logic Pro X issues with crash on re-opening, plugin naming" ### 4.6 — 2026-08-08 Fixes issues with lfos and animation arc in AU on preset recall ### 4.5 — 2026-08-04 MIDI mode in AU gets a setting toggle, where all playheads can be played with single midi channel. Pitch setting in MIDI mode in AU works as an added offset to a note being played. ### 4.4 — 2026-06-23 Fixed AUFX sequencer issue ## More apps by Andrei Nevar - [Videk Camera](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/videk-camera/id6760751598) - [Videk Director](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/videk-director/id6760756813) All apps by Andrei Nevar: https://appshunter.io/developer/1885164055 ## Related topics [granular synthesizer](https://appshunter.io/ios/topics/granular-synthesizer) --- *Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-08-19.*