Tracktion and Dawesome have launched Abyss 2, an updated version of the Abyss colour-to-sound synthesizer plugin. Designed by Dawesome, the instrument uses a visual, colour-based interface intended to support sound creation through listening and experimentation rather than conventional parameter-focused synthesis workflows.
Abyss 2 is based on the developer’s concept of “sound as colour”, drawing on the shared descriptive language often used for both sonic timbre and visual texture. The interface centres on combining and positioning sound-colours within a gradient, providing an alternative way to shape and explore sounds.
The plugin is intended for musicians, composers and sound designers working with synthesised and sampled material. Users can feed the instrument external audio, including field recordings, vocal excerpts and instrument sounds, which can then be used as source material within its sound engine.
Dawesome says the updated instrument is designed to keep interaction focused on auditioning and combining sounds. Rather than presenting the workflow primarily through numerical controls, algorithms or operator-based synthesis terminology, Abyss 2 presents its controls as a visual sound-design environment.
The Abyss synthesizer was created by Peter V, a musician and mathematician who has also worked in artificial intelligence. According to Dawesome, the development of the original Abyss involved research and prototypes exploring the application of machine learning concepts to sound design, alongside the development of its sound engine and user interface.
Abyss 2 is available for $149, with an introductory price of $75. Owners of the original Abyss synth can upgrade for $75, with an introductory upgrade price of $45.
Set a dev alert for Tracktion & Dawesome.
What do you think?
We’d love to hear your thoughts about this news. Please leave a message in the comments section below.
