FactorMini is a new MaxForLive device for mangling audio samples
FactorMini is a new MaxForLive device for rearranging and mangling sounds, similarly based on machine learning like its predecessor, FactorSynth.
FactorMini is based around the same sound decomposition engine as featured in FactorSynth, with a variety of the core features for mangling your samples into all sorts of new weird and wonderful sounds. FactorMini’s decomposition engine uses machine learning to split your samples into up to eight single components and provides you with a series of handy tools for reconstructing the samples in interesting ways.
FactorMini is a great tool for picking apart drum loops and swapping the placement of elements or randomizing some of the parameters to create endless variations. One of the coolest features they’ve brought over to FactorMini is the ability to export the individual components into wav files to import into your project for further editing.
How does it actually work?
Both FactorMini and FactorSynth are based around a data analysis algorithm called “matrix factorization” which has the ability to decompose audio clips into a set of temporal and spectral elements for you to re-arrange or mangle into something completely new. The system doesn’t run in real-time, so it may not be perfect for live applications, however the analysis process is pretty quick and provides a whole set of unique tools for sound design and production.
Mini offers an upgrade path to the full version of FactorSynth, if you’re feeling limited by the parameters and want to further your exploration. FactorMini is half the price of its predecessor at EUR €31 (Around R500) – not bad at all considering how useful this could be.
A few things to note, you need Ableton Live 9.7.5 or later and at least MaxForLive 7 to use FactorMini. The device is available at Isotonik Studios’ website, for more details check it out here.
We also featured FactorSynth recently, to find out more about that check out our article here.
