CHOPGRID is a new audio tool designed around randomisation and sample manipulation, developed to generate one-shots, loops, and sound variations from user-selected audio sources. Built with a grid-based workflow and integrated synthesis, drum, and effects modules, it centres on chance-driven creation while allowing users to retain and refine selected results.
At the core of CHOPGRID is the CHOP ALL function. When triggered, it scans a chosen audio folder, selects 16 files at random, assigns 16 different start points, and populates a 16-cell grid with one-shots. Each session produces a different configuration, offering varied combinations derived from the source material.
Each of the 16 cells operates independently. Users can adjust waveform position, envelope settings, and playback behaviour per cell. Individual cells can be muted, reversed, locked, or swapped during playback. A built-in envelope section allows separate attack and decay control for each cell, enabling detailed shaping of transients and tails.
Two live banks, A and B, are available for switching during a session. Together, they allow up to 128 files to be chopped per session, supporting workflows that involve sampler banks or drum racks.
CHOPGRID modules operate on 12-bit randomisers. Activating a module’s randomisation function scrambles its available parameters instantly, offering 4,096 possible combinations per module. Once a configuration is locked, it remains fixed while other elements can continue to be randomised.
The instrument section includes several sound modules:
- SB301 – An analog-style monosynth with a four-pole ladder filter.
- PIVOT – A multi-engine synthesiser offering 14 synthesis types, including FM, granular, and physical modelling, with modulation capabilities.
- CHIP – A digital oscillator module inspired by game console hardware, focused on lo-fi textures.
- SEQ – A sequencing module featuring six sequencer types and eleven scales. It supports MIDI file input, live performance, or autonomous playback.
Drum-focused modules are also integrated into the environment:
- DROM – An eight-part drum machine featuring a random pattern generator, eight custom kits, and more than 4,500 custom-recorded one-shots.
- MASH – A module designed for one-shot creation and drum layering. Users can load two audio sources, blend between them, layer material from different kits, apply amplitude envelope shaping, add noise, or select random audio for transient design.
- UTIL – A utility module combining EQ, filtering, compression, and VCA control.
CHOPGRID also includes a suite of effects processors intended for sound shaping and transformation:
- CRUSH – A bit crusher for reducing resolution.
- DIRT – A distortion module offering six models with additional noise and radio-style interference options.
- FUXT – A processor designed for skips, stutters, and signal interruption effects.
- DLYA – A multi-head tape delay.
- WERB – A reverb module with bit-reduced modes and smear controls.
- FILT – A sequenced filter bank with integrated filter delay.
- GATA – An animated gating sequencer for rhythmic modulation.
Recording and playback tools are built into the system to support live input and loop generation:
- KASET – Records live input directly, syncs to MIDI, and can route recorded material into CHOP ALL as a source.
- LOOP – Enables loop recording and includes a Magazine mode for batch recording up to eight variations consecutively.
- STEM – Allows full stems to run alongside a session as backing tracks or to be used as chop sources.
The overall workflow is structured to allow users to generate material quickly, lock selected results, and continue exploring additional variations within the same session.
Chopgrid is available for $49, with a special launch price of $29.
Set a dev alert for Broekn Labs.
What do you think?
We’d love to hear your thoughts about this news. Please leave a message in the comments section below.
