Max for Live patches are inherently editable so I decided to start there. Full MIDI specification for the Circuit is available so that development of a standalone randomizer is possible, but Isotonik Studios published a free Max for Live editor in partnership with Novation. So, it wasn’t long after picking up a Novation Circuit that I had the urge to use a similar shortcut to mine fantastic and otherworldly sounds from the unit. The PreenFM2 has patch randomization built directly into the instrument!
For example, the Yamaha TX81Z sounds great when randomized, or better yet, “degraded” with shuffled parameter values interpolated based on a time unit or clock division. One of the techniques I have exploited frequently in this regard is synthesizer patch randomization. I am fascinated by the process of discovering sound through happy accidents. At its worst it can be an unfortunate exercise in mimicry.
In my mind, sound design is at its best when it is a process of discovery.
