# tardigrain

> Granular synthesizer app for iOS with extensive modulation and effects. (iPhone/iPad app by Erik Sigth.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/tardigrain/id1344470087 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [Erik Sigth](https://appshunter.io/developer/385275335)
- Category: Music
- Price: $5.99
- Rating: 4.50/5 from 97 App Store ratings · 86 written reviews indexed
- Age rating: 4+
- Requires: iOS 11.0 · 60 MB
- Languages: American English
- Released: 2018-02-28
- Data updated: 2026-09-11
- Monetization: paid
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/tardigrain/id1344470087/reviews.md

## What is tardigrain?

Tardigrain is a granular synthesiser for iOS that runs standalone or as an AU plugin. Sounds are created by taking smaller fragments of a sample and playing them back in a non linear fashion, with settings for grain size, direction, step size and more. Process the sound further through effects like reverb, wave shaper and sample crush. Tardigrain supports connections with AudioCopy, AudioBus, Inter App Audio and AUv3. Plus all audio parameters can be modulated by MIDI, as AU parameters and by aftertouch on the build in keyboard. Now also a selected set of parameters can be modulated by LFOs och notes triggered by a new sequencer/arpeggiator. 

+++ Record your own samples or import using AudioCopy/drag'n drop
+++ Chromatic granualar playpack
+++ Effects (Wave shaper, Reverb, Sample crusher, Pitch and stereo spread)
+++ Resonant filter (low, band and high pass)
+++ Keyboard and MPE modulation of any audio parameters
+++ Note trigger sequencer/arpeggiator
+++ 4 LFO sources for modulating a selected set of parameters
+++ Multiple factory presets to get you started
+++ Save and load your own settings and samples
+++ Inter App Audio, AudioBus and AUv3
+++ Core MIDI, Inter App Audio MIDI and AUv3 MIDI

## Key features

- Granular synthesis engine
- Adjustable grain parameters
- Built-in effects (reverb, wave shaper, crush)
- Resonant filter
- MIDI and MPE modulation
- Sequencer/arpeggiator
- LFO modulation

## Recent user reviews (10 of 86)

All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/tardigrain/id1344470087/reviews.md

### 5/5 — супер вещь

*2026-01-09*

Очень удобный, интуитивно понятный и вдохновляющий инструмент. 10 из 10

### 5/5 — 10 Sterne Wert

*2025-12-25*

Was für eine durchdachte Musik App dass eher einem Instrument. Gleichkommt. Für Musik Enthusiasten und Gelegenheit Klimperer gleichermaßen interessant.
Das schnelle Einfügen über AudioShare macht das Spielen auf Tardigrain Grenzenlos.

### 2/5 — Update broke it.

*2025-11-20, version 1.2.6*

I can’t no longer import wave files to this or Elsa. 😕

### 1/5 — FormatAudio.wavOnlychargesample?

*2025-09-11, version 1.2.5*

If before it was allowed to upload files. Mp3, why doesn't he do it anymore? I work with .mp3 files, because they weigh less than .wav files. Have you already joined some commercial pact, to be able to give preponderance to the .wav files? Developers sold. Like doctors, who invent the disease, to be able to sell medical products, to brands.

### 1/5 — Volume level problems iPhone 12 Pro

*2025-06-25*

I can’t really honestly rate this yet because I can barely hear it! At volume settings other synths are quite loud at, loaded side-by-side…and with this app’s gain all the way up…still barely audible. Also, some bundled patches go into a permanently flickering state that seems like another bug.

### 5/5 — Timeless classic

*2025-05-25*

Still one of the most inspiring, intuitive, and beautiful apps for ambient music.

### 5/5 — Simply the best granular on the apps store.

*2025-04-25*

And I tried many of them. Tardigrain won out because it is so intuitive to use and implement in AUM, and it has real-time processing.

### 5/5 — This is a beast!

*2025-04-12*

Such great work. This app is absolutely a must have.

### 1/5 — No manual

*2025-03-07, version 1.2.1*

No manual. Can’t load my own samples. I want my money back.

### 4/5 — Casi casi

*2025-02-06, version 1.2.1*

Tiene muy buena pinta. La pena es que no se puedan cargar archivos propios y solo deja tratar sonidos precargados por el dev. Le doy 4 estrellas de momento.

## Frequently asked questions about tardigrain

### What is Tardigrain?

Tardigrain is a granular synthesizer application for iOS. It allows users to create unique sounds by breaking down audio samples into small fragments and playing them back in a non-linear fashion. It can be used as a standalone app or as an AU plugin within other compatible applications.

### What are the key features of Tardigrain?

Key features include a granular synthesis engine with adjustable grain size, direction, and step size. It also offers built-in effects like reverb, wave shaper, and sample crusher, a resonant filter, and extensive modulation capabilities via MIDI, MPE, LFOs, and a sequencer/arpeggiator.

### How much does Tardigrain cost?

Based on the provided information, Tardigrain is a paid application. There are no mentions of in-app purchases or a subscription model, indicating a one-time purchase for the full functionality.

### What platforms is Tardigrain compatible with?

Tardigrain is designed for iOS devices. It supports standalone operation, as well as integration with other audio applications through AudioCopy, AudioBus, and AUv3 (Audio Unit version 3).

### What are some common use cases for Tardigrain?

Common use cases include creating experimental soundscapes, unique textures, and evolving pads. Its granular synthesis capabilities are ideal for sound design, generating abstract audio, and adding complex sonic layers to music productions.

## Version history (last 5 releases)

### 1.2.9 — 2026-06-22

+++ Fixing issue with preset menu scrolling to the top on open, in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26

### 1.2.8 — 2025-11-25

+ Fixing graphical issues in seen menus on iOS 26.

### 1.2.7 — 2025-11-24

+ Fixing issue loading files in a security scope introduces in last version.

### 1.2.6 — 2025-11-18

Build 108:
+++ Stability fixes.
+++ Fixing unzip issue seen on iPhone 6S.
+++ Adding filter resonance and cut off state to presets saving and loading.

### 1.2.5 — 2025-06-15

+++ Fixing issue opening host application from IAA menu.

## Apps similar to tardigrain

| App | Rating | Price | Category |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Mela – AUv3: Synth, FX, MIDI](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/mela-auv3-synth-fx-midi/id1668299428) | 4.8 (79) | Free | Music |
| [ZOA — Living MIDI Sequencer](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/zoa-living-midi-sequencer/id1581881354) | 4.8 (43) | $8.99 | Music |
| [Fractal Bits](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/fractal-bits/id1482725385) | 4.8 (80) | $1.99 | Music |
| [Gauss Field Looper](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/gauss-field-looper/id1530684073) | 4.7 (115) | $6.99 | Music |
| [Rozeta Sequencer Suite](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/rozeta-sequencer-suite/id1292546479) | 4.8 (152) | $9.99 | Music |
| [Fluss - Granular Playground](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/fluss-granular-playground/id6443472888) | 4.8 (70) | $13.99 | Music |

## More apps by Erik Sigth

- [Sinusoid](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/sinusoid/id416624795)
- [shapesynth](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/shapesynth/id431097161)
- [ström](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/strom/id495549899)
- [nils](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/nils/id579955189)
- [voice bot](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/voice-bot/id654025530)
- [e-l-s-a](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/e-l-s-a/id833671355)

All apps by Erik Sigth: https://appshunter.io/developer/385275335

## Related topics

[borderlands granular](https://appshunter.io/ios/topics/borderlands-granular)

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*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 2026-09-11.*