JAX Unisonic (Audio Unit) 1.9

JAX Unisonic is an Audio Unit that offers a unique capability of producing up to 8 additional voices from any audio input, including polyphonic audio. It achieves this by applying pitch shifting and other parameters to multiply and shift the sound. It should be noted that Audio Units require a host application for operation.

The inspiration behind JAX Unisonic stems from the concept of 'Unison,' a technique borrowed from the vintage analog synthesizers to enhance sound richness by stacking multiple voices. This technique has been widely favored in both analog and digital synthesizers to create a fuller sound with added presence and vitality. The use of unison voices remains prevalent in contemporary music genres. In classical music, 'unisono' denotes a performance where multiple instruments or voices play the same parts collectively.

Technically speaking, JAX Unisonic replicates this sonic effect using a set of independent time domain pitch shifters that are tailored to detune and spatially spread the artificially multiplied voices. It functions akin to an advanced chorus generator or ensemble effect with customizable real-time control over intensity and pitch relationships, offering a unique sonic experience.

With JAX Unisonic, users can generate up to 8 additional voices processed through a series of pitch adjustments and spatial manipulations, resulting in rich, layered sounds regardless of the input source. Furthermore, the ability to individually transpose each voice within a range of +/- 1 octave sets it apart from conventional choruses or ensemble effects, edging towards the realm of "harmonizer" effects by allowing for precise harmonic manipulation.

The pitch shifters utilized in JAX Unisonic deviate from the conventional phase vocoder paradigm (FFT), eschewing static latencies present in other systems. Instead, they employ time domain pitch shifters with minimal delay buffers, dynamically adapting latency based on the pitch shifting parameters for near-latency-free performance. While this approach delivers immediacy for live applications, it may introduce rawer textures and generate disharmonic overtones at extreme settings.

Practically, JAX Unisonic serves as a versatile tool for creating expansive unison effects or more subtly enhancing various sonic elements within compositions. Users can experiment with controlled voice detuning, manual pitch corrections, vocal or instrument doubling, or infusing static sounds with dynamic movements. Its versatility extends to drum processing, introducing nuanced or pronounced frequency elements to elevate soundscapes effectively.