DiscoDSP – Vertigo v5.1.0 for WiN

Vertigo is a professional additive synthesizer equipped with 512 Euler oscillators with a signal-to-noise ratio of -120 dB. Transform audio and images into rich harmonic content using advanced FFT resynthesis. Dual variable envelope layers with 256 breakpoints provide precise control over the phase, amplitude and frequency of each fragment. Six filter types per unit, 128-band formant filtering and eight built-in effects provide complex sound shaping. Up to 16 voices of polyphony with a scalable HiDPI interface for modern music production workflows.

Vertigo is the pinnacle of additive synthesis technology, offering an innovative approach to sound creation based on mathematical precision and artistic expression. This cutting-edge synthesizer utilizes the power of Fourier analysis to deconstruct and reconstruct sound with unprecedented precision, enabling the creation of everything from classic Hammond organ sounds to futuristic soundscapes that push the boundaries of traditional synthesis.

Born from discoDSP’s commitment to innovation, Vertigo combines advanced signal processing with an intuitive workflow, making complex additive synthesis accessible to both seasoned sound designers and aspiring musicians looking to explore new sonic horizons.

Revolutionary Additive Engine

Vertigo is powered by a sophisticated additive synthesis engine that utilizes up to 512 oscillators generated using the Euler algorithm per voice, delivering an exceptional signal-to-noise ratio of -120 dB without the use of traditional wavetables. This mathematical approach ensures impeccable sound quality while maintaining computational efficiency.

The two-position A/B module system allows for seamless transitions between harmonic configurations using the modulation wheel, velocity sensitivity, or VST automation. Each partial module features independent phase, amplitude, frequency ratio, and panning controls, providing unprecedented sound shaping and dynamic texture creation capabilities.

With intelligent envelope tracking supporting up to 512 breakpoints with parabolic interpolation, Vertigo captures the subtle nuances of acoustic instruments, allowing you to create entirely new soundscapes impossible with traditional synthesis methods.

Advanced Resynthesis Capabilities

Vertigo’s revolutionary resynthesis engine transforms any audio source into additive synthesis data using sophisticated Fast Fourier Transform analysis. Import WAV files and watch as Vertigo decomposes complex audio into its individual components, tracking their frequency and amplitude characteristics with stunning accuracy.

Choose from several Fast Fourier Transform frame sizes (1024, 2048, 4096, 8192) and window functions (Bartlett, Hamming, Hann, Blackman) to optimize analysis for various source materials. Larger frame sizes provide greater low-frequency fidelity when working with low-frequency content, while smaller frame sizes provide better reproduction of rhythmic dynamics and transients.

The innovative Frequency Pairing algorithm automatically reorders partials between A/B states for smoother transitions, eliminating artifacts and ensuring consistency in musical transformations when mixing different analyzed sources.

Visual Spectral Editor

The built-in spectrum editor provides an intuitive visual approach to additive synthesis, displaying frequency components as a vibrant spectrogram where amplitude and frequency data can be directly modified in real time.

Advanced editing tools include horizontal and vertical fade operations, selective boost and cut functions, and precise partial selection for surgical sound design. The visual interface makes sophisticated additive editing accessible, allowing you to shape harmonics with the precision of a graphic equalizer while maintaining the flexibility of additive synthesis.

The unique raster image import feature allows you to load PNG or JPG images as harmonic templates, transforming visual art into audio using sophisticated pixel-to-frequency conversion algorithms. This opens up entirely new creative possibilities for experimental sound design.

Intelligent Harmonization System

Vertigo’s advanced harmonic engine offers multiple interpolation modes for creating natural harmonic relationships. Harmonic mode generates perfect integer multiples of the fundamental frequency, making it ideal for recreating classic organ and brass sounds.

The Odd Harmonic mode focuses on odd harmonics to create clarinet-like tones and dull, woody sounds. The innovative 1-2 Serial mode creates proportional harmonic relationships based on the frequency difference between the first two operators, creating unique metallic and bell-like tones.

Combined with the ability to change phase and frequency, these harmonization modes open up limitless possibilities for creating both realistic acoustic emulations and completely synthetic timbres not found in nature.

Professional Dual Filter System

Create additive designs with Vertigo’s advanced dual resonant filter system, which includes six filter types per device: 4-pole low-pass and high-pass filters, 2-pole and 4-pole band-pass filters, 4-pole notch filters, and 4-pole peaking filters.

Filters can be operated in series for traditional subtractive sound shaping or in parallel to create complex frequency splitting and phasing effects. Comprehensive modulation capabilities include velocity tracking, keyboard following, and modulation wheel control for adjusting cutoff and resonance parameters.

Dedicated bipolar envelope filters allow for dramatic and rhythmic filter effects, while a 128-band formant filter adds vowel character and vocal textures, ideal for creating talking synth effects and speech-like timbres.

Comprehensive Set of Effects

Enhance your additive creations with Vertigo’s professional effects workflow, featuring eight carefully crafted algorithms that complement the capabilities of additive synthesis.

8x oversampling distortion delivers smooth, alias-free richness, while an adjustable phaser (up to 128 bars) and flanger add agility and depth to the sound. An intelligent compressor maintains expressiveness and richness, while an 8-band EQ provides precise frequency shaping.

Stereo processing includes rich chorus, tempo-synced delay, and studio-quality reverb, optimized for the unique harmonic composition created by additive synthesis. Each effect seamlessly integrates with Vertigo’s synthesis engine, delivering a cohesive, professional result.

Retina Scalable Interface

Vertigo’s modern interface scales perfectly across various screen resolutions with full HiDPI support, delivering crisp visuals on both standard and high-resolution monitors. A multi-threaded graphical interface rendering system ensures high performance even with intensive real-time data processing.

The intuitive layout keeps key controls within easy reach and provides detailed visual feedback via spectral displays, envelope editors, and real-time partial activity indicators. Zoom controls allow you to focus on specific aspects of your sound design work.

Built-in drag-and-drop support for audio files and images streamlines the creative process, while a built-in bank browser provides quick access to Vertigo’s extensive library of presets and your own creations.

Improved polyphony and performance

Enjoy 16 voices in polyphonic mode with intelligent voice distribution and multiple playback modes, including polyphonic, monophonic, and legato. The optimized additive engine utilizes native x86 AVX2 and Apple NEON technologies for efficient CPU utilization, even when all 512 partial tones are active.

A comprehensive MIDI implementation includes glissando control, modulation wheel response, velocity sensitivity, and full VST automation support for all parameters. The synthesis engine responds naturally to performance dynamics while maintaining the mathematical precision that makes additive synthesis unique.

Latency-free feedback processing provides high-speed response suitable for both studio work and live performance, and the standalone application allows operation on a computer independent of host software.