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Synthesizer

OctoCell

Ableton

Where to get itAvailable from Abletonableton.com

OctoCell is a hybrid multi-synthesizer combining additive, FM, and subtractive synthesis, designed by Michel Geiss and Jean Lochard for Ableton Live with Max for Live. It features eight oscillators organized as additive partials, each with frequency modulation capability in sine mode, delivering rich and versatile timbres from analog-like warmth to complex FM metallic sounds. The instrument supports both Classic MIDI and MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) modes for expressive performance control.

Written from the manual and checked against it. How we check

Key Features

01FM synthesis with per-oscillator modulation in sine mode
02Dual morphing sets (Max Amp A and Max Amp B) for dynamic timbre transitions
03Spectral Modulator with random variation of sustain volumes and partial frequencies
04Ladder filter (Lowpass24, Highpass12, Bandpass12, Lowpass12, Notch12, Peak12) with key tracking and drive
05Modulation Matrix with six sources and nine destinations
06Step Modulator with 16 programmable steps and multiple playback modes
07Full-featured monophonic sequencer with pitch, velocity, gate, and swing controls

Things to Try

  • 01Load T0XY preset and use the Morph knob to transition between analog-like sound and bell-like FM timbre
  • 02In T08 preset, increase the FM Sustain value on the first oscillator's envelope to add harmonic richness to a basic sine wave
  • 03Set FM Ratio to fractional values such as 0.75, 1.25, 1.5, or 2.5 to create inharmonic metallic sounds
  • 04In T13 preset, observe how Spectral Modulator settings (Rnd Rate, Rnd Freq, Rnd Levels) create dynamic timbral variation on held chords
Formats
STANDALONE
Official Website↗User Manual↗

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