Polyverse Manipulator is a cutting-edge vocal processing plugin developed in collaboration with electronic music duo Infected Mushroom. This innovative tool goes beyond traditional vocal effects, offering a unique blend of timbre-bending and pitch-shifting capabilities that push the boundaries of audio manipulation. Manipulator employs advanced granular algorithms to dramatically alter the characteristics of monophonic audio, allowing users to explore new sonic territories. The plugin’s versatility extends beyond vocals, proving equally effective on various instruments such as drums, synths, and basses. With its ability to create everything from subtle harmonizations to full-on sonic transformations, Manipulator has become a go-to tool for producers seeking to inject creativity and originality into their productions. The plugin’s interface is clean and modern, striking a balance between complexity and user-friendliness, making it accessible to both novice and experienced users alike.
Pros:
• Innovative granular algorithms for unique timbre and pitch manipulation
• Versatile application across various audio sources, not limited to vocals
• Low latency and CPU-efficient performance
• Extensive modulation options for dynamic and evolving effects
• Clean, modern interface with logical layout
Cons:
• Steep learning curve for mastering all features
• May not be suitable for those seeking traditional, transparent vocal processing
Polyverse Manipulator boasts an impressive array of features that set it apart from conventional vocal processors. At its core are ten distinct effects that can be combined, automated, and modulated to create an vast range of sonic possibilities. The plugin’s pitch-shifting algorithm is particularly noteworthy, offering exceptional clarity and low latency, making it suitable for live performances and studio work alike.
The Formant section allows users to manipulate the timbre of the input signal independently of pitch, enabling the creation of gender-bending effects or entirely new vocal characters. This feature is complemented by the Smear control, which introduces a unique spectral blurring effect, further expanding the plugin’s sound design capabilities. Manipulator’s Harmonizer function adds rich, polyphonic textures to monophonic sources, with the ability to create up to four additional voices. Users can fine-tune the pitch and stereo placement of each voice, opening up possibilities for lush, choir-like effects or otherworldly harmonies.
The plugin’s modulation capabilities are particularly powerful, featuring four independent LFOs and an envelope follower. These can be assigned to virtually any parameter within the plugin, allowing for complex, evolving soundscapes. The LFOs offer various waveforms and can be synced to the host tempo, while the envelope follower responds dynamically to the input signal, creating organic, responsive effects.
Manipulator also includes a Stereo Widener, which enhances the spatial characteristics of the processed audio while maintaining mono compatibility. This feature is particularly useful for adding depth and dimension to vocals or lead instruments without compromising the mix’s integrity on mono playback systems.
The Grain section provides granular synthesis capabilities, allowing users to break down the input signal into tiny fragments and reassemble them in novel ways. This feature is instrumental in creating glitchy, stuttering effects or smooth, evolving textures.
A comprehensive preset library accompanies Manipulator, offering over a hundred starting points across various styles. These presets serve as excellent learning tools, demonstrating the plugin’s capabilities and providing inspiration for users’ own creations.
Polyverse Manipulator is a great, potent, and adaptable tool for manipulating vocals (and other sources). The options are endless, and you can find yourself wasting a few hours simply having fun with it! It is slightly more expensive than you may pay impulsively, but if you produce any kind of music where severely processed voices are used, you will find this to be of great value. For MIDI pitch control and harmonization, it’s also really cool.
When compared to similar plugins, Manipulator stands out for its unique approach to audio manipulation. While tools like Antares Auto-Tune and Melodyne focus primarily on pitch correction and subtle vocal enhancements, Manipulator takes a more experimental approach, encouraging users to push the boundaries of sound design. Its granular algorithms and extensive modulation options set it apart from traditional vocal processors, placing it in a category of its own. In terms of creative potential, Manipulator shares some similarities with iZotope’s VocalSynth 2, which also offers a range of vocal effects and synthesis options. However, Manipulator’s focus on timbre manipulation and its powerful pitch-shifting algorithm give it a distinct edge in certain areas. The plugin’s low latency performance also makes it more suitable for live use compared to some of its competitors. While not directly comparable, Manipulator’s ability to create unique, evolving textures puts it in the same creative space as granular synthesis plugins like Output’s Portal or Audiority’s GrainSpace. However, Manipulator’s specialization in vocal processing and its more intuitive interface make it more accessible for users specifically looking to manipulate vocal or monophonic instrument sources.
This plugin is best for:
• Electronic music producers seeking unique vocal effects
• Sound designers creating otherworldly textures and atmospheres
• Live performers requiring low-latency vocal manipulation
• Producers looking to add creative flair to instrumental tracks
• Experimental musicians pushing the boundaries of conventional sounds
Polyverse Manipulator represents a significant leap forward in the realm of vocal and audio processing plugins. Its innovative approach to sound manipulation, combining advanced granular algorithms with intuitive controls, opens up a world of creative possibilities for producers and sound designers. The plugin’s ability to dramatically alter the timbre and pitch of audio sources while maintaining high sound quality is truly impressive. While it may have a steeper learning curve compared to more traditional vocal processors, the payoff in terms of sonic potential is substantial. Manipulator’s versatility extends beyond vocals, making it a valuable tool for transforming various audio sources in both studio and live settings. Its low latency performance and CPU efficiency further enhance its appeal, especially for live use. Despite its complexity, the well-designed interface helps users navigate its numerous features with relative ease. While it may not be the go-to choice for those seeking transparent, traditional vocal processing, Manipulator excels in creating unique, attention-grabbing effects that can set a production apart. For producers and musicians willing to explore its depths, Polyverse Manipulator offers a playground of sonic possibilities, limited only by the user’s imagination.
Citations:
[1] https://polyversemusic.com/docs/manipulator-manual/
[2] https://polyversemusic.com/products/manipulator/
[3] https://www.audiopluginguy.com/review-manipulator-from-polyverse/
[4] https://www.kvraudio.com/product/manipulator-by-polyverse-music/reviews