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TAQS.IM: Bringing Global Sounds to Your Digital Studio
Greetings Altwire readers! I recently had the privilege of getting to test some incredible software and I can’t wait to tell you about it.
Created by two Armenian musicians, TAQS.IM is dedicated to infusing productions with authentic sounds drawn from Middle Eastern, Asian, and other global musical traditions—all without ever leaving your computer.
The Origin Story: Passion for Global Music
TAQS.IM began with two musicians, Antranig Kzirian Und Aram Hovagimian. Now around for several years, the concept emerged from a desire to bring fans of Middle Eastern music together to celebrate its culture. Their software, rather than relying on generic presets, encourages users to explore scales and tonalities beyond the familiar 12-note system. This commitment to diversity in sound not only broadens a musician’s creative palette but also honors the rich musical heritage of cultures around the world.
A quick visit to the company’s website immediately immerses visitors in a world of innovative plugins designed to capture the spirit of global music. Their mission is to empower composers, producers, and sound designers with tools that celebrate cultural authenticity while pushing the boundaries of digital synthesis.
Innovative Products: A Closer Look at SOLO Synth and MicroToner
While TAQS offers a variety of fantastic products, the below mentioned standout offerings exemplify its commitment to innovation and authenticity. Each product caters to musicians looking to bring fresh, culturally inspired elements into their work.
SOLO Synth: A Hybrid Journey into Global Sound
Imagine an instrument that combines the best of two worlds: the warm, organic character of analog synthesis and the precise detail of high-quality samples. That’s the essence of the SOLO Synth. At its core, this instrument features a hybrid synthesis engine with analog and phase distorted modeled oscillators. These oscillators can generate an extensive range of sonic possibilities—from crisp, synthetic tones to rich, sampled textures.
One of the most compelling features is its microtonal scale converter. Many musical traditions—especially those of the Middle East—rely on scales that diverge from the standard Western system. With this instrument, you can explore these alternative tunings, known as Makam scales, and craft melodies that carry a distinct regional flavor. This microtonal capability allows composers to break free from conventional harmony and venture into a realm of unique melodic expression.
The instrument also comes equipped with a suite of studio-grade effects. Reverb, delay, distortion, and phaser options are available to help sculpt and refine the sound. With a straightforward interface, its clarity ensures that the focus remains on creativity rather than navigating complex menus.
MicroToner: Redefining Tuning for Modern Music
If SOLO Synth expands your sonic palette, MicroToner redefines it by challenging the confines of the twelve-tone scale. This standalone app and plugin enable you to incorporate microtones into your music with ease. Designed to mimic traditional oriental scale converters, MicroToner modifies incoming MIDI Pitch Bend data so that your favorite virtual instruments can play in microtonal scales.
For many producers, this means the freedom to experiment with scales that were previously out of reach. With MicroToner, the result is a richer, more nuanced musical expression that draws inspiration from non-Western traditions.
The user interface is designed for simplicity and ease of integration. Whether you’re using it as a standalone app or as a MIDI effect within your DAW, it fits seamlessly into your workflow. This flexibility makes it a valuable addition to any producer’s toolkit—especially for those eager to explore the endless possibilities of microtonal music.
Both SOLO Synth and MicroToner benefit from robust modulation systems. The modulation matrix in SOLO Synth lets you assign various modulation sources—such as low-frequency oscillators (LFOs)—to control different aspects of the sound. Whether you’re looking to create subtle vibrato or dramatic, evolving textures, this feature provides a high degree of control.
Seamless Integration and Cross-Platform Compatibility
The developers have ensured that the products work effortlessly across different platforms. Both SOLO Synth and MicroToner are compatible with a wide range of DAWs on PC and Mac, supporting formats like VST3, AU, and AAX. Whether you’re working in Logic Pro, Ableton Live, FL Studio, or Pro Tools, these tools integrate smoothly into your creative workflow. Moreover, the Mac versions are optimized for Apple’s M-series chips, guaranteeing efficient performance on the latest hardware.
Final Thoughts: A Journey of Sonic Discovery
TAQS.IM stands as a testament to the power of blending cultural heritage with modern technology. Its products are more than just plugins—they’re invitations to explore a universe of sound where the traditions of the past meet the innovations of the future.
The impact of these tools goes beyond technical excellence. They empower musicians to tell stories that reflect the diversity of our world, enriching productions with authentic flavors that resonate on a deeper level. Whether you’re producing an energetic pop track, crafting an atmospheric film score, or experimenting with avant-garde sounds, these products provide the means to bring your creative vision to life.
For any musician looking to break free from the ordinary and explore new sonic dimensions, TAQS.IM offers not just a product, but a passport to a richer, more diverse musical world. Embrace the journey, experiment with new scales, and let the sounds of the world inspire your next great masterpiece.
UPDATE: Shortly after posting this article, version 3.3 of SOLO Synth was released! Below are some new features, quoted from the website:
| Velocity-Responsive Filter The filter now reacts to velocity, delivering a more dynamic and expressive playing experience—just like a hardware synth. Per-Oscillator Velocity Control Customize velocity response for each oscillator individually for nuanced sound shaping. Dynamic Envelope Mode A new mode that adapts envelope behavior in real time based on your playing velocity. Preset & Phrase Search Box Quickly find presets and phrases with the newly added search functionality. Enhanced MPE Support Improved response for MIDI Polyphonic Expression for more expressive performance. Enhanced Breath Controller Support Expanded support for breath controllers offers more natural expression for wind-style play. Improved Glide via Velocity Glide behavior now responds more naturally to velocity, giving you finer control over phrasing. Factory Sample Fixes Resolved tuning and looping issues across factory samples and presets for better playback accuracy. New & Revoiced Factory Presets New, updated and refined factory presets for improved musicality and inspiration. Refined UI Cleaner interface with improved visuals and workflow enhancements. Faster Load Times Launch and load projects quicker than ever before. Stability Enhancements Under-the-hood improvements for a smoother, more reliable experience. |
| To update your software please open up the Hub Application and update SOLO. |
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