Blind Sample Challenge: 4 Random Samples on the Torso S-4 (Vol. 41)

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"Welcome to Vol. 41 of my Torso S-4 explorations! In this video, I take on a blind 4-sample challenge: building a complete 4-track ambient soundscape from scratch using four randomly picked samples from the Bastl MicroGranny library. Because the files use non-descriptive, sequential labels, I had no idea what sounds I was getting until they hit the tracks.

With zero planning and no preparation, every decision is made on the spot. I work through each track sequentially, sculpting textures, grains, and filters to weave unrelated sounds into a cohesive sonic environment. Toward the end, I break down how to set up and perform with Macro modulations to bring dynamic motion across the entire patch.

The video is heavily annotated with on-screen notes detailing each step of the sound design workflow, modulation routing, and granular processing.

• Instrument: Torso S-4 Granular Synthesizer
• Source Material: Bastl Instruments MicroGranny Factory Samples
• Post-Processing: Lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools"

Improvised Techno Jam with Torso S-4 (Vocal Loops & Sidechaining) | Vol. 39

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"Vol. 39 of the Torso S-4 Explorations series.

In this session, I dive into a raw techno track starting with a layered soundscape built from two vocal samples. From there, I bring in a driving drum loop and use the Torso S-4's envelope follower to dial in a sidechain compression effect directly on the unit.

No planning, no preparation—every sound and structural decision was made entirely on the spot. The live performance was recorded and lightly mixed/mastered in Pro Tools.

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0:00 - Intro
0:30 - Soundscape setup (Vocal Samples)
2:10 - Adding the drum loop
2:35 - Envelope follower & sidechain effect
3:08 - Let's bring another sample
3:48 - Performance continues

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#TorsoS4 #LiveJam #Techno #Dawless #MusicProduction #Improvisation #ProTools"

Torso S-4 Explorations Vol. 38 — Zero Prep, 4 Random Samples

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"This performance was created with zero planning, zero preparation, and every decision made entirely on the spot. Starting with four randomly selected samples, I built a complete 4-track live improvisation from scratch.

To help you follow the workflow as it unfolds, on-screen annotations detail the sound design moves made during the jam—such as modulating sample lengths to shift phrase variations, using the FREEZE button to turn samples into pseudo-wavetable oscillators, and routing the envelope follower to filter cutoff for an auto-wah effect.

Audio recorded live, lightly mixed, and mastered in Pro Tools. Headphones recommended for optimal listening!"

I used random samples on the Torso S-4 and accidentally made DnB

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"Welcome to Vol. 36 of my Torso S-4 Explorations!

In this session, I went in completely blind—no planning, no preparation, and zero pre-arranged patterns. Every sound decision was made on the spot using randomly selected samples across all 4 tracks.

Somewhere along the way, the jam naturally evolved into an unexpected Drum & Bass vibe, which made this session an absolute blast. The video is annotated throughout so you can follow along with exactly what I’m tweaking, modulating, and processing in real time.

🎛️ Post-Production Note:
The raw performance was recorded live, then lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools.

⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
00:20 - Building Track 01
01:09 - Granular fun
02:16 - Building Track 02
03:05 - Playing with 'Slices'
03:47 - Building Track 03
04:34 - Playing with FREEZE
06:04 - Building Track 04
07:07 - Let's bring the drums
07:55 - Accidental DnB 😎"

From Scratch: Ambient Torso S-4 Live Jam

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"Welcome to Volume 35 of my Torso S-4 exploration series.

This is a completely improvised, zero-preparation ambient performance. No planning, no pre-saved patterns—every single sonic decision was made live on the spot. To give you a deeper look into my workflow, the performance is fully annotated so you can follow along with every twist, turn, and parameter tweak.

During the jam, I dive into a few advanced Torso S-4 techniques, including:
• Modulating sample Speed in Stretch mode with Glide for shifting textures.
• Modulating the sample Start point to create infinite, jittery variations on a drum loop.
• Modulating grain rate, pitch, and contour for evolving, organic soundscapes.

Audio Note: The raw performance was captured live and then lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools for the best listening experience (headphones recommended!)."

🕒 TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - Intro
00:24 - Building Track 01
00:43- Modulating SPEED and PITCH
01:35 - Granular (MOSAIC engine)
02:20 - Building Track 02
03:12 - Granular (MOSAIC engine)
04:37 - Building Track 03
05:14 - Modulating START (glitchy drum loop)
06:56 - Granular (MOSAIC engine)
09:29 - Building Track 04
10:08 - Modulating TEMPO
11:38 - Soloing Track 01
12:32 - Bringing back the drums
13:05 - Soloing Track 04
13:41 - Drums are back!
14:27 - Wrapping up!

Live Processing with Torso S-4 | DecadeBridge Sn + MTL Purpll Drone Improvisation

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"An improvised hardware session exploring live textural processing and generative drones.

In this performance, I’m using the Torso Electronics S-4 as the central sonic playground and processing brain. The Montreal Assembly (MTL) Purpll is set to drone mode, acting as a self-contained, unstable harmonic generator. Alongside it, the DecadeBridge Sn provides a gritty, compact synthesizer voice.

Both devices are routed into separate, dedicated inputs on the S-4, allowing for independent live looping, granular warping, and spatial sculpting on the fly.

The performance was recorded live from the S-4 output, then lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools

---

🔴 GEAR USED:
• Torso Electronics S-4 (Granular Processor & Sampler)
• Montreal Assembly Purpll (PLL Synthesizer & Harmonizer)
• DecadeBridge Sn (FM Synthesizer / Noise Generator)"

Sculpting the Duos // Live Soundscapes with Torso S-4

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"A raw, live-recorded ambient improvisation using the Hikari Duos synthesizer routed through the Torso Electronics S-4 sculpting sampler for real-time processing and sound design.

This performance was captured entirely live in a single take, presented without any edits or arrangements after the fact. The master audio was lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools for clarity and depth.

Signal Flow & Routing:
• Source: Each of the two unique oscillators from the Hikari Duos is sent to its own dedicated channel on the Torso S-4 (Track 1 and Track 2).
• Processing: Both input tracks are actively sculpted live on the S-4 and routed through an Aux Send on Track 4 for shared spatial effects and texture generation.

If you enjoy live electronic music, generative soundscapes, and hardware jams, consider subscribing for more process-driven sessions.
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`#AmbientMusic #TorsoElectronics #HikariDuos #DawlessJam #SoundDesign #experiment #alelectronicmusic #electroacousticmusic"

Torso S-4 POLY Engine: Turning Samples Into Synths (Torso Explorations Vol. 34)

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"In Volume 34 of my Torso Explorations series, we are diving deep into the POLY engine on the Torso Electronics S-4 sculpting sampler. While the S-4 is an incredible texture and ambient machine, the POLY engine transforms it into an expressive, 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer by arranging samples chromatically across the keys.

I walk you through how to configure and play the POLY engine using two external MIDI controllers: the Keith McMillen QuNexus keyboard for manual playing, and the Korg SQ-1 for sequencing.

The POLY engine gives you per-voice control over amplitude and filter envelopes, allowing you to sculpt raw samples into beautifully playable synth patches.

--

🎵 What's inside this video:

• Track 1: Demonstrating the core mechanics and envelope shaping of the POLY engine using a built-in stock sample.

• Track 2: A quick, live workflow showing how to sample an external acoustic instrument (my mandolin) using the S-4’s internal microphone and instantly flip it into a polyphonic synth patch.

This entire performance was recorded live in one take, with light mixing and mastering finished in Pro Tools. The video is fully annotated throughout so you can easily follow the exact parameters and routing I'm altering in real-time.

If you enjoy these deep dives into the S-4, please consider liking the video, subscribing to the channel, and leaving a comment with how you’re using your S-4!

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00:00 - Intro
00:37 - Setting up a first POLY track
04:24 - Sending Audio from one track to another
06:12 - Quickly recording, trimming, and saving a new sample
07:05 - Using the new sample to create a second POLY track
08:34 - Let's add some drums?
09:03 - And let's play!"

One Drum Loop, Infinite Soundscapes | Torso S-4 Exploration Vol. 34 #sounddesign

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"Welcome to Volume 34 of my Torso S-4 Explorations.

For this improvised live performance, I set a strict creative limitation: use only one single sample (a drum loop) and one single track on the Torso Electronics S-4. The goal was to push the boundaries of the S-4's granular and sound-design engines to see just how far a single piece of source audio could be stretched, morphed, and reshaped into a variety of sonic landscapes.

The performance was recorded live with only minor edits for pacing. Final audio was lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools."

Ambient From Scratch: Stock Samples & Live Recording | Torso S-4 Explorations Vol. 32

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"Welcome to Volume 32 of Torso S-4 Explorations. In this live-recorded session, I build an immersive ambient soundscape completely from scratch using only the Torso S-4.

This exploration relies entirely on internal S-4 factory samples combined with a short, live vocal phrase captured directly through the S-4’s built-in microphone. The video is structured to take you step-by-step through the creation and processing of each of the four tracks, with detailed on-screen annotations highlighting the specific techniques and effects used to build the tracks.

In the final section of the video, we transition from building to playing—exploring the expressive, generative possibilities of the completed texture.

The performance was captured live, and is presented here with minor edits to tighten the flow and remove redundancies. As a last step, the live recording was lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools."

00:00 - Introduction
00:20 - Track 1: Modulating speed in stretch mode
02:13 - Track 2: Generative melody with a single cycle sample
04:45 - Track 3: Capturing voice with the internal mic
08:39 - Track 4: Generative melody with a single note sample
11:34 - Live exploration & performance

Beautiful Meltdowns | A Live Benjolin Exploration (feat. Bien Jolie ! & Starlight Echo Station)

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"Running Rob Hordijk's chaotic Benjolin architecture through lush, vintage stereo delays.

In this session, I explore the interaction between the Glou-Glou Bien Jolie! and the Universal Audio UAFX Starlight Echo Station.

The Bien Jolie! serves as the generative core of the performance, utilizing its interacting analog VCOs, XOR logic, and Rungler shift register to create highly unpredictable, cross-modulated textures. To capture and reshape these chaotic voltages, the stereo output is routed directly into the Starlight Echo Station, utilizing its various vintage echo-emulation engines (Tape EP-III / Analog DMM / Precision) to add depth, space, and rhythmic structural movement to the evolving patterns. I also added a filter (High and Low pass, patched between the Bien Jolie! and the Starlight) to tame extreme frequencies.

This performance was captured entirely live and is presented mostly unedited. The recording was then lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools.

🎧 Listening Note:
Because this setup relies heavily on wide stereo imaging, ping-pong delay repetitions, and complex analog filter modulation, headphones or studio monitors are highly recommended for the best listening experience."

Exploring the Chromaplane: Live Improv, Tuning Screws, & External Drones

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"A live, fully improvised performance exploring the unique architecture of the Koma Elektronik Chromaplane. This session is a deeper dive into the instrument's hands-on playability—including on-the-fly tuning—and external input processing.

On-screen captions are included in the first half to break down the basics of the instrument and explain exactly what is happening under the hood.

Performance Breakdown:
• The Core: Sound generation starts with the Chromaplane, interacting directly with its electromagnetic fields.
• On-The-Fly Tuning: Watch as I use the tuning screws mid-performance to shift pitches and reshape the harmonic foundation in real-time.
• The Expansion: In the final act, things get heavier as I introduce an external input—the gritty, texture-rich Triad drone/noise synth by DecadeBridge.
• The Space: The entire mix is processed through the Universal Audio UAFX Starlight Echo Station to pull the mono signal into an immersive, wide stereo space.

The performance was recorded live, then lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools.

--

0:00 - Intro

--
Signal Chain:
• Synthesizer: Koma Elektronik Chromaplane
• External Input: DecadeBridge Triad (Drone/Noise Synth)
• Delay/Modulation: UAFX Starlight Echo Station
• DAW: Avid Pro Tools (Mixing & Mastering)"

Benjolin in a Pedal // Glou-Glou Bien Jolie ! Live Improv

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"In this session, I explore the Bien Jolie ! by Glou-Glou, a fascinating hybrid desktop effects pedal and standalone experimental synthesizer deeply inspired by Rob Hordijk's legendary Benjolin circuit.

Built around interacting analog VCOs, XOR logic, and the famous Rungler shift register, this box excels at generating unpredictable, evolving patterns, chaotic cross-modulation, and unique rhythmic textures. It brings the beautifully unstable spirit of the Benjolin into a highly tactile, semi-modular desktop format. This performance is captured entirely live and unedited, showcasing the spontaneous interaction between the internal normalized path and custom patch routings.🎛️ "

Torso S-4 2.2 Beta: The Revamped MOSAIC Engine (Deep Dive Tutorial & Demo)

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"Following up on my previous improvised jam (Torso S-4 Explorations Vol. 30), this video is a dedicated deep-dive tutorial and demonstration of the newly revamped MOSAIC engine introduced in the 2.2 beta firmware update.

The Torso S-4's granular engine has received a massive overhaul, and in this guide, I break down exactly how it works so you can get the most out of your sound design sessions.

What I Cover:
• Detailed Scan Mode and Parameter Walkthrough: An in-depth look at how the different scan modes behave under the 2.2 beta firmware, and at the interface changes and new parameters.
• The 'Fox.wav' Demo: To clearly demonstrate these technical changes, I put the engine to work using a single vocal sample (the legendary 'fox.wav' sample from CSound history), allowing you to clearly hear how each parameter shapes the texturing, time-stretching, and cloud generation.

Whether you're looking to update your hardware or just curious about the direction Torso Electronics is taking the S-4 sampler, I hope this helps guide your workflow!

--

Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction
00:23 - MOSAIC engine overview
01:07 - Granular synthesis explained
01:52 - Scan modes
03:10 - Page 1 parameters
04:31 - Page 2 parameters (randomization)
05:31 - Let's play! (sound demo)"

Ellitone Fn_block01 & 02: Ambient Improv & Tech Demo

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"Exploring the unique sonic world of the Ellitone Fn_block series. In this video, I take an improvised dive into the Fn_block01 Polysynth and the Fn_block02 Notepad, running them through the lush, expansive algorithms of the UAFX Golden Reverberator.

The video begins with extensive annotations detailing the architecture of these two unique devices. The performance itself was recorded live as a single take to capture the raw, semi-modular character of the Ellitone hardware.

Recorded live from the Golden Reverberator output on one stereo track, then lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools.

GEAR:
• Ellitone Fn_block01 Polysynth: A mini, highly minimalist 8-bit digital synthesizer featuring 4-voice polyphony, 25 waveforms, and 6 preset amplitude envelopes. Instead of traditional knobs, it utilizes touch plates for control and features a unique semi-modular architecture that allows for physical patching using crocodile clips on its hardware spacers.
• Ellitone Fn_block02 Notepad: A compact, handheld MIDI controller designed to interact seamlessly with the Fn_block series. It features 12 touch-activated note keys, 12 selectable musical scales, a 5-octave range, and a built-in phrase looper that can record, loop, and layer up to 50 notes in real time.
• Universal Audio UAFX Golden Reverberator: a premium stereo reverb pedal featuring studio-grade emulations of classic hardware, including vintage spring, plate, and lush 1970s digital halls. Here I am using the Hall setting."

00:00 Introduction
00:35 Ellitone Notepad
02:01 Ellitone Polysynth
03:18 UAFX Golden Reverberator
03:47 Performance Continues

Infinite Textures // HBI Harmonics & SOMA Cosmos

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"Improvised ambient session exploring the interaction between wavetable drones and drifting delays.

In this performance, the HBI Harmonics provides a steady, three-voice foundation, which is then processed and evolved by the SOMA Cosmos. No external synchronization or sequencing was used. The performance was recorded live on a single stereo channel, then lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools.

Technical Breakdown:
• HBI Harmonics: A compact desktop synthesizer featuring three wavetable oscillators. It specializes in generating thick, harmonically rich drones through independent tuning and long-phase LFO modulation of waveform shapes.

• SOMA Cosmos: A "Drifting Memory Station" designed to create ever-evolving soundscapes. Unlike a traditional looper, it uses prime-number-based delay offsets and chaotic modulation to ensure the audio buffer never repeats identically."

00:00 Intro
00:28 Overview
01:55 Performance

HBI is Home Bake Instruments. See the label below for additional posts.

Live Granular Improvisation // Torso S-4 2.2 Beta Firmware Exploration

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"In this session, I am diving into the 2.2 beta firmware update, which introduces a major overhaul and exciting new features to the Mosaics engine—the S-4’s powerful granular processor. To help demystify the workflow, I have annotated the performance to explain the specific techniques, modulation, and parameters I am tweaking in real time.

Patch Breakdown:
• Track 01: A melodic sample selected straight from the S-4 stock sound library, heavily manipulated via the new Mosaics features.
• Track 02: A stock drum sample, also maniulated with the reworked Mosaics engine.
• Track 03: I introduce a live layer by sampling my own singing voice on the fly using the S-4's internal microphone.

--

00:00 Intro
01:30 Building Track 01 (flute sample)
07:04 Building Track 02 (drum loop)
19:41 Building Track 03 (time to sing!)"

Discovering the Chromaplane: First Improvised Sessions with Soma Cosmos

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"In this video, I explore the Chromaplane by Koma Elektronik and Passepartout Duo for the very first time. To process the sound, I run the signal through the Soma Laboratory Cosmos Drifting Memory Station, allowing the electromagnetic textures to evolve into a shifting, ambient soundscape. The performance were recorded live from the Cosmos stereo output, then lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools.

The video is in two parts:
• Take 1: My initial interaction with the instrument, focusing on discovering its tactile response and basic tonal characteristics.
• Take 2: A second attempt where I push the density of the performance while maintaining the same tuning from the first session.

I have included annotations at the beginning of the video to explain exactly what the Chromaplane is and how I am approaching this specific setup.

Gear used:
• Koma Elektronik Chromaplane
• Soma Laboratory Cosmos (Drifting Memory Station)

--

00:00 Intro
00:51 Take 1: Introducing the Chromaplane
02:42 Adding the Cosmos
03:19 Drawing Melodies is Fun!
07:12 Take 2"

Deep Textures | DecadeBridge Sn Standalone Drone Performance

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"In this session, I dive into the DecadeBridge Sn, using it as a purely standalone sound source for an improvised drone performance.

The goal of this exploration was to push beyond simple sustain and find the hidden textures, grit, and evolving timbres tucked inside this compact synth. By moving through various frequency ranges and modulation points, the Sn reveals a surprising amount of movement and harmonic complexity. Expect a journey through heavy low-end oscillations, shimmering high-frequency artifacts, and raw, unpolished sonic landscapes.

Recorded live, lightly mixed and mastered in Pro Tools."

Analog Chaos: Hikari Instruments DUOS & Decade Bridge Duet (Live Improvisation)

video upload by Andre Bregegere

"A live, improvised exploration of rhythmic chaos and textural filtering. This performance centers on the interaction between the Hikari Instruments DUOS and the Decade Bridge Duet, captured in a single take.

The Gear:
• Hikari Instruments DUOS: A unique, pulse-based analog synthesizer and chaos generator. It features two cross-modulating oscillators that create unpredictable, organic rhythmic patterns and harsh, complex textures.
• Decade Bridge DUET: A versatile dual analog filter (VCF). In this set, it acts as the primary sculpting tool, processing the DUOS’s raw output to add movement, resonance, and tonal depth.

This set was recorded live as a single stereo track. To preserve the raw energy of the improvisation, post-production was kept to a minimum, with light mixing and mastering in Pro Tools.

--

00:00 Intro
03:34 Performance"