Testflight Betas: Vekte and Tresse for iOS

Tresse 1.2.0 for iOS, VST3, AUv3 and Standalone video upload by Våld Labs

"Now TRESSE is a 39-engine, dual-layer polysynth built around 24 Mutable Instruments Plaits engines plus 15 custom engines. It has two independent 8-voice synth layers, three LFOs, two generative modulation lanes, a dual-playhead arpeggiator, delay and shimmer reverb, and a deterministic generative sequencer derived from VEKTE.

Each layer has its own synthesis engine, filter, envelopes and voice mode, so you can combine completely different synthesis methods in one patch and modulate the balance between them. It runs standalone or as an AUv3 in AUM, Drambo, GarageBand, Audiobus and other iOS hosts.

VEKTE is the other side of the idea: a 16-channel generative MIDI sequencer built around 36 deterministic algorithms, ranging from Euclidean rhythms, Fibonacci and random walks to cellular automata, logistic maps, harmonic systems, Tonnetz movement and more.

Each VEKTE channel contains a NOTE lane plus four independent MOD lanes. Those modulation lanes can control MIDI CCs, rhythm, harmony, probability, density, playback direction, algorithm parameters and even other generators, so patterns can evolve structurally rather than simply playing back notes.

A big part of both instruments is that their generative systems are deterministic. The same algorithm and parameters always reproduce the same result, so you can explore without losing something interesting you discover.

They also share a compact patch-sharing system.

With TRESSE, the entire patch, including both synth layers, all three LFOs, delay and reverb, the complete sequencer and both generative MOD lanes, can be encoded into a single TRS2 key of roughly 155 characters. TRESSE can turn that key into a QR code, export it as a 1080 × 1350 social card, or scan a patch directly from another screen or printed QR using the iPad/iPhone camera.

VEKTE uses the same idea for generative MIDI. A complete channel can be represented by a compact VKT2 Base62 key, typically around 43 to 130 characters. Because the patterns are deterministic, VEKTE doesn’t need to store every generated MIDI event in the key. It stores the recipe and reconstructs the exact pattern when it is loaded.

VEKTE can display those keys as QR codes, scan them directly with the iPad camera, and share individual channels or an entire 16-slot rig. It can also create 1080px Share Pattern cards containing the QR, key and caption, ready for the iOS Share Sheet, so patches and generative patterns can be exchanged through Messages, social media, forums or even from a screenshot.

That sharing system is something I’m particularly interested in developing further: instead of presets being files hidden inside an app, a sound or generative pattern becomes something you can post, photograph, print, send to somebody, and reconstruct exactly on another device.

The philosophy behind both instruments is the same: the art of shaping chaos. I’m interested in generative systems that can surprise you without taking control away from you. What you discover can be reproduced, edited, saved, performed and shared rather than disappearing into randomness.

They’re designed to complement each other as well: VEKTE can generate and evolve the musical structure while TRESSE turns that structure into sound, although both are complete instruments in their own right."

https://valdlabs.com

Vekte Beta 1.2.1: Introducing ARP, Drumkit, and more modulations!

video upload by Våld Labs

"Every channel is now a SEQ, a KIT or an ARP, and slots can drive each other. 1.2.1 rewrites the ARP transport so a running clock tracks the host 1:1.

1.2.0
Slot modes: SEQ (generative sequencer), KIT (fixed 12-note kit map), ARP (input-driven, from external MIDI or another slot)
Slot bus: DEST routes one slot into another. A SEQ conducts an ARP, ARPs chain, no host MIDI routing
RTRG restarts the pattern on a press, LATCH keeps the playhead running silently on release
APPROACH and FILL: deterministic in-scale passing notes, drawn on the piano roll
Ratchet rate system, six interpolation laws

CLICK FOR MORE »

Våld Labs Presents Vekte Algorithmic Sequencer and Tresse Polyphonic Synth Beta VST3

video upload by Våld Labs

"🚀 Vekte & Tresse VST3 Open Betas Now Live! 🚀
The wait is over. I’m incredibly excited to open up the VST3 beta versions for both Vekte (the algorithmic sequencer) and Tresse (the 39-engine polyphonic synthesizer).

This video is a quick look at the workflow, showcasing how they interact to sculpt complex, evolving sequences into structured soundscapes.

⚠️ Note: This current beta is for the VST3 plugin version only. iOS AUv3 and standalone hardware versions are coming soon!

🎛️ About the Projects
Vekte: An algorithmic sequencer designed for complex, evolving sequences. It’s all about sculpting down from complexity rather than building up from scratch.

Tresse: A polyphonic synth architecture packed with 39 engines, PlaitsDSP-inspired, tailored for grit-meets-polyphony workflow.

🛠️ Join the VST3 Beta
Ready to test them out and help shape the final release? Head to the links below:

👉 Test Vekte VST3: valdlabs.com/vekte
👉 Test Tresse VST3: valdlabs.com/tresse

Connect with the Project
📸 Instagram: @valdlabs"

Vekte Public Beta Now Open

You might remember Vekte from this previous post. The public beta for it is now open. Details follow:

"Vekte is a generative MIDI sequencer plugin. It runs 31 algorithms — Euclidean, Markov, cellular automata, Xenakis sieves, Kaprekar, logistic maps, and more — and uses them to write patterns to drive your instruments.

Every channel has one note lane and four modulation lanes. Each lane runs its own algorithm and can target velocity, length, any CC, transpose, scale, chord, octave, or another lane's parameters, with sixteen slots per session (which can be either routed freely to any channel, including multiple slots controlling one single channel).

The engine is deterministic. Each pattern is hashed from its algorithm and parameters into a seed, so a given configuration always produces the same result. Patterns are exact and repeatable, and you can export any state as a preset string to recall later or hand to someone else (this part is still WIP, and will be improved massively in the next one).

It began as the software side of Rekke, our hardware sequencer, and the two share part of the same algorithmic core.

This is a public beta. VST3 only for now, on Windows and macOS. AU and an iOS AUv3 build are planned, but I want VST3 solid first. Free during the beta.

I'm after real feedback: what breaks, which hosts misbehave, what's confusing, what's missing. Bug reports and DAW-specific quirks are the most useful thing you can send (you have a form in the menu for direct feedback from the app).

https://valdlabs.com/vekte"

Vekte and Tresse: Algorithmic Sequencer and Macro Oscillator VST by Våld Labs

video upload by Våld Labs

"Two plugins from Våld Labs, shown back to back. Vekte sequencing Tresse.

Vekte is a generative MIDI sequencer built on the same principle as our upcoming hardware sequencer Rekke: you grow your patterns, and scupt them down.

A library of algorithmic engines — Euclidean, Markov, cellular automata, L-systems and others — produces material that's deterministic and reproducible from a seed, but large enough in its parameter space that it never stops surprising you.

Tresse is the synth on the receiving end, a multi-engine voice with a continuous SEM-style filter morph, in the macro oscillator synth realm.

In this clip both run as plugins, but both philosophies are also coming out in our hardware.

Vekte:
Multiple generative engines, each a distinct algorithm rather than a preset
Complete modulation routing (internal and external) in 4 lanes.
A vast amount of scales, chords, divisions, and everything you need to create rich polyrhytms. Playhead directions, totally independent from each other.
Seed-based recall — the same seed always rebuilds the same pattern

Tresse
39 polyphonic synth engines, with a variable-state SEM-style filter, LFO, wavefolder and more.

Soon in: VST3, AU3, iOS, Standalone

valdlabs.com
IG: @valdlabs"

Prototype 2 of VåldLabs' "Rekke"

video upload by Våld Labs

"Rekke will be a hands-on experince, something new to make artists surpass the creative block through innovative sequencing tools and workflow.

This is an early prototype showcasing one of 8 channels, and 8 of 9 displays. Non-linear sequencing with Trigger repeat, note, division, length are shown"

Våld Labs Rekke at Synth Geekery #sequencer #diysynth #synth #electronicmusic

video upload by Våld Labs

Looks like the Consequencer posted here.

"Shout out to our aussie friends at Renzee podcast Synth Geekery for the kind coverage of our Rekke! #diysynth #techno #synth #sequencer #electronicmusic #synthesizer #arduino #3dprinting #esp32 #music"

TRESSE by Våld Labs — 39 Engine Polyphonic Desktop Synthesizer | Demo 3

video upload by Våld Labs

"3-voice polyphonic synth powered by ESP32-S3. 24 modified Mutable Instruments Plaits engines + 14 original engines and a FreaqFM-inspired engine. DIN, USB-C & Bluetooth MIDI. Built-in FX. 1000+ presets.

🔗 More info soon

🔊 ALL 39 ENGINES (current count)

— MODIFIED PLAITS ENGINES (0–23) —

00 EastCoast · Detuned virtual analog, variable waveforms
01 PhaseDist · Triangle through waveshaper/wavefolder
02 DX7 I · 2-op FM bank 1, variable feedback
03 DX7 II · FM bank 2, metallic/percussive
04 DX7 III · FM bank 3, brassy/complex
05 Terrain · Dual formants, VOSIM/Pulsar/CZ-style
06 StrChor · String machine/organ chord generator
07 Chiptune · 8-bit chord engine

CLICK FOR MORE »

Våld Labs Tresse: a multiengine synthesizer based on Plaits, for desktop.

video upload by Våld Labs

This one was sent my way via Meska who had the following to say: "It's 'basicaly' a standalone MI Plait with 3voice and extended oscilator models."

Video description follows:

"Tresse — 3-voice polyphonic desktop synth, 38 engines

Hey all,

Been working on this for a while and it's finally at a point where I want to share it.

*Tresse* is a standalone polyphonic synthesizer built around Mutable Instruments' Plaits DSP code, running on an ESP32-S3 with a custom PCB. Three voices of polyphony, 38 synthesis engines, USB, DIN/TRS and Bluetooth MIDI, and perhaps Ableton Link and our upcoming stack (VMB) Våld Modular Bus, expected to ship this summer, and which will a new wireless comms protocol with negligible latency, auto discovery and machine mesh capabilities (to be released soon).
Also enough knobs and encoders to actually play the thing without menu-diving, and a battery for when you're bored outside of your studio.

*The core idea:* take the full Plaits engine library — all 24 algorithms — and make it polyphonic in a self-contained hardware instrument. Then keep going and add 14 more custom engines on top.
There are hundreds of options similar to this in modular systems and i thought why not bring all these god-level creative tools to bedroom, desktop producers who don't have the money or the space (or will) to mingle in the modular space, and bring them one contained box with all they need.

What's inside

*ESP32-S3* doing all the DSP across both cores (voices 0+1 on Core 1, voice 2 on Core 0, parallel render)
**PCM5102A DAC**, 24-bit output, 32kHz sample rate
*4 pots + 4 rotary encoders* through CD74HC4067 mux and MCP23017 I2C expander
*OLED display* (128×64) for patch info, engine select, preset browsing
*USB MIDI + BLE MIDI* — works with everything, no adapter needed for wireless
Custom PCB, all through-hole friendly

38 engines

The first 24 are straight from Plaits — East Coast, Phase Distortion, all three DX7 variants, Terrain, String/Chords, Chiptune, Wavetable, Speech, Swarm, Particle, the Rings modes, the three drum engines, etc.

Then 14 custom engines built from scratch:

*Karplus-Strong* — proper physical string modeling with excitation morphing (noise → impulse → tonal)
*ByteBeat* — 8 classic formulas with pitch-tracked rate, gets wild
*CZ Phase Distortion* — Casio CZ-style, three distortion shapes
*Supersaw* — up to 7 detuned saws with PWM, the obvious one but it needed to exist
*Formant* — vowel synthesis with 3 bandpass resonators, gender shift control
*2-Op FM* — clean FM with 13 ratios and operator feedback
*Wavefolder* — sine/tri/saw/square source into a proper folder with bias
*Noise Drums* — SVF-based with pitch envelope, covers kicks through metallic hits
*Modal Resonator* — 8 tuned bandpass partials, morphs from harmonic → bell → bar inharmonicity, with a bowed excitation mode
*Sympathetic Strings* — 3 coupled Karplus delay lines with controllable coupling and interval ratios
*Comb Resonator* — 4 parallel comb filters with spread control
*Drawbars* — organ-style additive with 8 Hammond-ratio partials
*Complex Oscillator* — FM into wavefolder, Buchla-adjacent territory
*Grain Noise* — granular noise with smoothing, good for textures and pads

Controls

Three parameter layers accessible via toggle buttons:

*Normal* — Timbre, Morph, Harmonics, Color on pots; Attack, Decay, FM, LFO Depth on encoders
*MOD* — Fold, Detune, Ring Mod, Chorus on pots; LFO destination/shape/speed/sync on encoders
*SHIFT* — Filter Cutoff/Reso/Env/Type on pots; Portamento, Octave, Vibrato depth/speed on encoders

Hold both buttons → engine select overlay. Double-tap MOD → system menu (randomizer, MIDI config, play mode). Double-tap SHIFT → preset browser across three banks (own patches, generated, branches).

Play modes: Poly, Mono, and chord modes (Major, Minor, 7th, Sus4, Power, Octave).

The randomizer is one of my favorite things — it generates random patches with procedural names (stuff like "Velvet Moth" or "Iron Shard"), you scroll through them with the encoder, and save the ones you like to a generated preset bank. 512 slots each for generated and branch presets, 128 for your own.

What it sounds like

Honestly covers a lot of ground. The Plaits engines already span everything from classic analog to FM to physical modeling to noise, and the custom engines fill in some gaps I wanted — proper supersaw, real Karplus-Strong, the modal/sympathetic stuff for metallic and evolving tones, and the ByteBeat engine for when you want to go full chaos. The global FX chain (filter, wavefolder, ring mod, chorus) ties everything together.

The project should be available from April 2026, in kit or assembled units! Price to be discolsed once i have the final FINAL prototype, but shouldn't hurt the wallet.

This is a *Våld Labs* project from Lisbon Portugal. Much more to come.

Would love to hear what people think, and happy to answer questions about the build or the DSP. Be aware that this is a pretty advenced prototype, but still a prototype"

https://valdlabs.com

Note they also have the Consequencer pictured left but no additional info aside from the following on it yet.

"A portable, desktop-first sequencer with modular DNA — built for the art of shaping chaos."

CubuSynth also has a Consequencer announced back in 2024, but they appear to be unrelated.