MusePad vs GrainHeads

Muse Pad is a 6D MPE controller designed for music producers. Build expressive rigs with multiple device types, switch layouts on the fly, and map any control in seconds—then save everything as reusable projects. Highlights Multiple devices: Pads, Keyboard, Controllers, and more Modes and layouts tailored to playing styles and stages Custom velocity curves per device for consistent feel MIDI Learn with DAW: map sliders, arc knobs, bend wheel, XY pad, camera tracker Dynamic key/scale switching for instant musical context Project‑based workflow: save, recall, and share setups Connectivity Bluetooth MIDI and Network MIDI for wireless stages Works with leading DAWs, synths, and hardware via CoreMIDI Devices & Controls Pads: velocity‑sensitive grooves, drum racks, finger drumming Keyboard: in‑key/chromatic/regular modes, octave, and split layouts Controllers: sliders, arc knobs, bend wheel, XY pad, switches Per‑control ranges, smoothing, inversion, and scaling Projects Save complete device states, mappings, keys/scales, and curves Create variations for studio, rehearsal, and live shows Built for Musicians Refine touch with curves, and automate parameter changes via MIDI Learn Pricing Standard: monthly subscription or one‑time lifetime unlock Manage subscriptions in‑app; restore purchases anytime Privacy & Support https://muse-pad-web.vercel.app/muse-pad No unnecessary data collection; designed for reliable performance Terms of Use: https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/itunes/dev/stdeula/

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.