TraceSonic is an experimental additive synthesizer for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. It turns pixel data from images and drawings on a time-frequency canvas into sound. Explore built-in oscillators and wavetables, harmonic brushes, AUv3 support, MIDI input, factory presets, and image-based patterns.
Canvas
Paint and erase
Choose from predefined brushes to paint across time and frequency bands. Harmonic brushes are included. Draw freely or snap to available pitches. Undo, redo, and erase with the current brush; you can paint while the audio continues to play.
Patterns
Included canvas patterns provide precise harmonic spectra for sustained notes, rhythms, effects, unusual sounds, or starting points for further experimentation.
User images
Import your own images and turn them into sound. Replace the current canvas or combine an image with existing content. Note imported images are converted to grayscale; you can import photographs, but since those often contain dense spectral data, the result can sound different from what you expect.
Synthesizer
Additive monosynth
Several audio-rate oscillators and wavetables sample the painted canvas. Adjust the scan direction and speed by setting a duration or using a multiplier of the host tempo.
AUv3 + MIDI
Use TraceSonic as a standalone app or as an AUv3 instrument in a compatible host. Incoming MIDI notes set the base note. You can hold the base note when no MIDI notes are active, so a patch continues as a sustained drone while the host is running.
Presets
Includes a collection of built-in patches organized into thematic groups (Shepard tone included).
Available
Available as a standalone app and an AUv3 plug-in.Mac
iPhone
iPad
€8.99
One purchase includes all supported platforms.
For questions or support, contact me on Discord (username: r618), X, Bluesky, or Threads.