At dBs Institute we're always on the lookout for unique ways to get creative, and if that creative spurt is as simple as opening a new browser tab, then even better!
In recent years there's been an amazing range of music tools to use for free right from your browser, and with Google Chrome supporting MIDI via the Web MIDI API, some apps even let you use USB MIDI controllers! We thought we'd round up some of our favourite synths, sequencers and more...
1. WebModular
Here is a browser-based synthesizer that might not have the prettiest of user interfaces, but is a fully functioning modular synth! It can be played with a plugged-in MIDI controller in Chrome, or can be programmed directly in the browser with Music Macro Language (MML), which is a little bit like trying to program a ringtone on those 15-year-old Nokia mobile phones!
2. Web Synths
Check out this classic recreation of the EMS Synthi A analogue synthesizer. Built using JavaScript, it's an awesome tool for learning the peg-board style routing structure of this classic synth. Plus, the Synthi-JS adds patch memory and even lets you input audio files. But most of all, it's brilliant fun!
3. HTML 808 & HTML 909
Another HTML recreation of the classic TR-808, but this time by Teemu Kallio and with the bonus of the Roland TR-909 too. They don't have the export function of HTML5 Drum Machine, but they have a nicer looking interface, more patterns, tracks and you can still save patterns.
4. WebSID
The WebSID is a digital recreation of the iconic 8-bit SID sound chip, as used in the Commodore 64. Made famous by C64 music hackers, chiptune enthusiasts and Elektron's SID Station hardware the raw, lo-fi grit is very unique. The WebSID can be played using your computer keyboard and will also respond to touch if you’re using a smartphone or tablet.
5. Webotribe
The Webotribe is an online, digital recreation of Korg’s popular Monotribe analogue groovebox. Just like the small hardware box, the Webotribe is a monophonic synth, drum machine and sequencer, all rolled into one. A great online demo if you were thinking about purchasing the hardware or simply an excellent work-avoidance tool. You decide!
6. Sympathetic Synthesizer System Mk 1
A simple to program polyphonic synth that makes a sound that might be familiar to fans of late 1980s and early 1990s video games. It can be played using your computer keyboard or via the on-screen keys.
USE IT NOW
http://stuartmemo.com/synth
7. Patternsketch
Patternsketch is a drum machine sequencer in a familiar grid style. You can either bash drums in real time using your computer keyboard or create sequenced beats using the pattern grid. There are a few different drum kits available, ranging from the realistic to drum box emulations.
USE IT NOW
http://patternsketch.com
8. TrueGrid
TrueGrid is a browser-based recreation of a Eurorack modular synth. Patch together individual modules to create a ton of sounds, save patches and more! You'll discover the terrifyingly addictive possibilities of Eurorack modular. There's a reason it's nicknamed "Euro-crack"!
9. Patchwork
Patchwork is a more advanced modular sound synthesis tool. In the same vein as NIs’ Reaktor, Patchwork lets you link various sound generators, effects, sequencers and utility modules to create anything. Take a deep breath and dive in!
10. Audiotool
Audiotool is a feature-rich, all-in-one music production suite. It has four synthesisers, two drum machines, and all manner of mixing, routing and creative effects including a full range of guitar stompboxes, a graphical equaliser, exciter and central mixing console.
11. Theremin
The web audio theremin might not have the touch-less visual magic of a real theremin, but it is a touch screen friendly and responsive audio synthesiser. It is built using Javascript, the web audio API and HTML5 so you can make those spooky Dr Who sounds without freaking out your cat.
12. WebSynths
WebSynths is a microtonal synthesiser meaning you can get stuck into tuning your sound to all those pesky notes that lurk in-between all the "normal" notes. It's playable via connected MIDI controllers, your computer keyboard or touch. Clever!
13. Tanguy
Tanguy is a fully playable analogue-style synthesiser capable of reproducing a wide variety of different sounds. Just like the others on the list, It is playable using your computer keyboard but it's unique feature is that it can process the external microphone input through its filter, amp and delay sections.
USE IT NOW
http://luketeaford.com/apps/tanguy
14. Beep
Beep is a fully programmable JavaScript synthesiser playable with your mouse or computer keyboard. The adventurous can edit the underlying code to create unique sounds.
15. Java DX7
This Java-based synth is a FM synthesiser in the same vein as the most popular synth of the 80s, the Yamaha DX7. It's complete with MIDI control, presets and options to save your own sounds. Impressive and much easier to program than the hardware!
16. Webitaur
The Webitaur is based on the Moog Minitaur hardware bass synth and it's yet another great way to try out the controls and capabilities of the hardware, even if the sound isn't quite as chunky as a genuine analog Moog.
17. WebotronFM
WebotronFM is a web based FM synthesiser based on the simple but delightful Korg Monotron. Works better on touchscreen devices as you can recreate the ribbon control style interface.
18. TinyMoog
A simple but lovely looking 3D styled playable synthesiser based on the famous MiniMoog. Bags of fun, but ultimately it make us want a tiny hardware MiniMoog! Cute!
USE IT NOW
www.angryoctopus.co.nz/synth12/synth.php
19. MiniFM
The MiniFM is an original 4 operator FM synthesiser moulded in the style of the hardware Yamaha DX100 or DX21 synths. Again like most FM synths in software it has the advantage of being much easier to program than the menu-diving hardware versions!
20. Audio Sauna
Audiosauna is a music studio for the browser. It features a classic analogue-style and FM synthesisers and a sampler. There is a classic piano roll for programming notes and a standard arrangement and mixer section.
21. HTML5 Drum Machine
Don't let the lack of creativity in the title of this online beatbox dissuade you. Based around the legendary Roland TR-808, the coolest feature is probably that after you're done making beats, you can save and export the patterns as a WAV file to tinker with later in your DAW.
USE IT NOW
