In today's fast-paced music production landscape, the need for intuitive and expressive control over parameters has never been more crucial. This is where Essession's innovative TouchMod plugins step in, offering a fresh approach to parameter control that could revolutionize the way we interact with our digital instruments and effects.
The TouchMod Revolution
Essession has crafted a pair of plugins, TouchMod IN and TouchMod FX, designed to transform the way we play with parameters. By leveraging the power of multitouch technology, these plugins enable us to control multiple parameters simultaneously with our fingers, providing a more natural and immersive experience than traditional mouse-based control.
One of the standout features of TouchMod is its ability to assign each finger to control two parameters at once, one on the X-axis and another on the Y-axis. This means that with just four fingers, we can manipulate up to eight parameters in a single gesture. Imagine the creative possibilities! From opening a filter while adjusting resonance to shaping delay feedback and repeats, the expressive potential is immense.
Beyond MIDI CC Mappings
What sets TouchMod apart from standard touchscreen MIDI controllers is its direct interaction with VST3 writable parameters. Instead of relying on MIDI CC mappings, TouchMod works directly with the plugin's exposed parameters, allowing for more precise and musical control. This means we can assign parameters by simply nudging a control in Learn mode or selecting from the plugin's list, and even adjust their ranges or reverse them for even more expressive control.
Streamlined Workflow
TouchMod IN and TouchMod FX not only provide intuitive parameter control but also offer a streamlined workflow. TouchMod IN allows us to load two VST3 instruments within a single instance, enabling parameters from both instruments to share the same pad for easy access. Similarly, TouchMod FX accommodates two effects, routing them in series or parallel, transforming a layered instrument or effect chain into a single, playable setup. No more juggling multiple plugin windows!
Capturing Gestures and Loop Learning
TouchMod takes things a step further with its Loop Learning feature. This allows us to capture gestures and play them back as continuous movements, with the ability to adjust speed and amplitude on the fly. Unlike an LFO, which repeats a fixed mathematical cycle, a TouchMod loop retains the unique shape and feel of a movement performed by hand, adding an organic and expressive element to our productions.
Accessibility and Convenience
The plugins are designed to run on a Windows multitouch display or a second screen connected to the computer. For those with iPads, the free TouchMod Remote app brings the same surface to your device over local Wi-Fi, allowing the DAW and plugin windows to remain on the main screen while the iPad serves as a dedicated controller. This setup ensures a seamless and convenient workflow, with no internet connection required.
A Free Opportunity
The best part? Essession is offering TouchMod IN and TouchMod FX as free downloads until September 15, 2026. Anyone who downloads the plugins during this period will receive a permanent license, including future updates. This is a fantastic opportunity for producers, sound designers, and electronic musicians to explore this innovative parameter control system and unlock new creative possibilities.
Final Thoughts
TouchMod represents a significant step forward in the world of music production, offering a more intuitive and expressive way to control parameters. By embracing multitouch technology and direct parameter control, Essession has created a powerful tool that could shape the future of music production. I, for one, am excited to see how producers and musicians will incorporate TouchMod into their workflows and push the boundaries of creative expression. The future of parameter control is here, and it's looking bright!
