Introducing UniMIDI Hub: A Groundbreaking Inclusive MIDI Controller

UniMIDI Hub is a pioneering software application designed to revolutionize MIDI control across multiple platforms, making music accessible to individuals with diverse abilities. Developed in C++ with the JUCE framework, UniMIDI Hub ensures seamless compatibility with both macOS and Windows. This innovative MIDI controller features an intuitive interface with customizable colored pads, ranging from 2 to 12 buttons per screen. These pads can be activated via various input devices, including eye-trackers, typing keyboards, micro-switches, and game controllers, providing a versatile solution for music creation.

Key Features of UniMIDI Hub

• Customizable MIDI Interface: Users can configure each pad with specific MIDI events, channels, notes, chords, velocities, delays, colors, and keyboard shortcuts, offering a personalized music creation experience.
• Inclusive Design for Accessibility: UniMIDI Hub supports a wide range of input devices, making it accessible for individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities. It works with eye-trackers, typing keyboards, micro-switches, and game controllers.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: This innovative MIDI controller seamlessly works on both macOS and Windows platforms, ensuring broad usability.

Innovative Approach to MIDI Control

UniMIDI Hub revolutionizes MIDI control by prioritizing inclusivity. This groundbreaking MIDI controller allows users to express their musical creativity using everyday tools like eye-trackers, micro-switches, and game controllers. By democratizing music-making, UniMIDI Hub enables individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities to participate in music education, therapy, and performance.

Most Inspiring Use Cases

One of the most inspiring uses of UniMIDI Hub is its transformation into a fully functional musical instrument. Users can perform solo or in ensembles, utilizing adaptive technology to create and control music in real-time. This fosters inclusivity in musical expression and empowers individuals with diverse abilities. To see UniMIDI Hub in action, watch this video.

Expansion Plans for UniMIDI Hub

Our expansion plans for UniMIDI Hub include integrating additional adaptive technologies like motion sensors and voice control to further enhance the software’s accessibility. We aim to develop an online community and support forum where users can share experiences and provide feedback. Additionally, we are exploring collaborations with hardware manufacturers to create dedicated controllers optimized for use with UniMIDI Hub, improving the user experience and expanding our market reach.

Commercialization Strategy for UniMIDI Hub

To bring UniMIDI Hub to a wider audience, our commercialization strategy focuses on developing partnerships with educational institutions, therapy centers, and accessibility organizations. These collaborations will refine and expand the software’s capabilities. We aim to secure funding to enhance the user interface, add more input device support, and enable plug-and-play control with most DAWs. Additionally, we will develop a robust marketing strategy. Our goal is to release UniMIDI Hub as a commercial product within the next two years, making it widely available to individuals and organizations dedicated to inclusive music-making.

Transforming MIDI Control with UniMIDI Hub

UniMIDI Hub is poised to revolutionize the world of MIDI control with its inclusive design and innovative features. By empowering individuals with diverse abilities to create and control music, we are taking a significant step towards democratizing music-making. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to innovate and expand the possibilities of inclusive music production. Thank you for joining us on this journey towards a more inclusive musical future!

To visit the MIDI Association’s site and view the page dedicated to UniMIDI Hub, click here.

What is NKS?

NKS, which stands for Native Kontrol Standard, is a unified format developed by Native Instruments. It serves as a bridge between software instruments, hardware controllers, and digital audio workstations (DAWs). Essentially, NKS enables plug-and-play functionality, allowing users to access instrument parameters directly from their hardware controllers without the need for manual mapping.

Why Use NKS?

Streamlined Workflow: NKS simplifies the music production process by providing standardized control over instrument parameters. With NKS-compatible SWAM Instruments, users can seamlessly navigate through presets, tweak settings, and manipulate sound parameters using their preferred hardware controllers.

Enhanced Creativity: By eliminating the hassle of manual mapping, NKS empowers musicians to focus on their creativity rather than technical setup. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned producer, NKS ensures a smooth and intuitive workflow, allowing you to explore new sonic possibilities effortlessly.

Expanded Compatibility: NKS compatibility extends beyond individual software instruments. It integrates seamlessly with a wide range of hardware controllers and DAWs, offering versatility and flexibility to musicians of all levels.

Native Instruments Hardware Integration

At Audio Modeling, we’ve invested considerable effort in seamlessly integrating our SWAM Instruments with Native Instruments hardware controllers, enhancing the overall user experience. Our approach to this integration has been meticulous, guided by the comprehensive “VST NKS SDK Documentation.”

We’ve leveraged the Light Guide feature present in Komplete Kontrol keyboards to provide users with visual feedback on instrument ranges, KeySwitches, and other specific characteristics. This not only enhances the user’s visual experience but also facilitates intuitive navigation and control.

Additionally, we’ve meticulously created dedicated NKS presets for each SWAM instrument, complete with tags for easy browsing and audio previews to showcase the unique qualities of each preset. Despite the relatively lesser emphasis on presets in SWAM compared to sample-based instruments, we understand the importance of providing users with convenient browsing options.

Furthermore, we’ve developed artwork, banners, and dedicated assets for each product, ensuring a cohesive and visually appealing experience. Our functional schema, based on both hardware and software specifications, has been designed to streamline parameter navigation, making it easier for users to access and manipulate instrument settings.

Recently, we’ve implemented the VST3 interface to ensure full compatibility of our instruments with the latest NKS 2.0 SDK specifications. This commitment to staying up-to-date with industry standards reflects our dedication to providing users with the best possible experience.

In summary, the integration of Native Instruments hardware with SWAM Instruments represents a significant step forward in music production technology. By combining the power of NKS with our innovative instruments, we’ve created a seamless and intuitive workflow for musicians of all levels. Explore the possibilities of music-making with SWAM Instruments and Native Instruments hardware integration.

In conclusion, the compatibility between SWAM Instruments and NKS represents a significant milestone in music production technology. By leveraging the power of NKS, musicians can enhance their workflow, unlock new creative possibilities, and enjoy seamless integration between software instruments and hardware controllers. Whether you’re a professional producer or an aspiring artist, NKS provides a user-friendly solution to streamline your music production process. Embrace the future of music-making with SWAM Instruments and NKS compatibility.

Introducing “Ambiente” – The Room Simulator

“Ambiente,” our brand-new Room Simulator, isn’t just another feature; it is the glue and foundation of our entire ecosystem. With “Ambiente,” you can place Solo Instruments and String Sections in the same virtual space, creating a cohesive and immersive orchestral environment. Here’s what you can do with “Ambiente”:

• Customize Your Space: Choose and configure up to 18 different rooms to craft your ideal orchestral sound. Select from various absorption materials and room sizes to get just the right acoustic feel.
• Adjust Reflections: Fine-tune the stereo microphone distance to capture more or fewer reflections, adding depth and realism to your sound.
• Close Mic Setup: Opt for a “close mic” configuration in a fourth, highly absorbent room, perfect for using external spatializers or reverbs. Watch the video!

SWAM Solo Instruments Free Update v3.8

But that’s not all! The SWAM Solo Instruments have received a significant upgrade with the release of Version 3.8. This update goes beyond the introduction of the “Ambiente” ecosystem; we have improved the user interface to facilitate your workflow. These enhancements are designed to make your music production process more intuitive and efficient, allowing you to focus on creativity. Keep reading to find out more about these exciting changes and how they can benefit your projects. Here’s what’s new:

• Improved Preset Management: Better organization and navigation for a smoother experience.
• New Parameter Search Function: Easily find and manage all parameters with a comprehensive overview.
• Enhanced Accessibility: New keyboard shortcuts and detailed screen reader descriptions for blind and visually impaired users.

SWAM String Sections Free Update v1.2

We couldn’t overlook the String Sections in our latest update. The 1.2.0 update is consistent with the Solo Instruments v3.8.0 update and is also packed with enhancements that will elevate your music production:

• Sound Enhancements: Experience improved sound quality that adds richness and depth to your compositions.
• New Rooms to Explore: Discover new room configurations, offering even more creative possibilities for your projects.
• Streamlined Workflow: Benefit from real-time control over articulations, dynamics, expression, and room placement, making your workflow faster and easier. This streamlined process allows you to focus more on creativity and less on technicalities.

Important Note

These exciting new releases are currently available for desktop only. Please note that presets from version 3.8.0 are not backward compatible with previous versions, including iOS. However, don’t worry – an iOS version is on the way soon!

And here’s the best part: this update is completely free for all existing customers. Yes, you read that right – free!

Final Thoughts

With SWAM and physical modeling, there’s always “room” for improvement. We’re constantly striving for perfection, fueled by our passion and dedication. We are excited to see the incredible music you’ll create using these new tools. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey!

Stay tuned for more updates and enhancements as we continue to innovate and elevate your music production experience.

More than two years ago, we introduced the marvelous SWAM v3, packed with new features, beauty, and SWAMtastic vibes. Naturally, it was time to bid adieu to SWAM v2. During this period, while we didn’t sprinkle SWAM v2 with all the new features of v3, we  ensured compatibility with most operating systems, DAWs, and hosts. Additionally, our customer support superheroes continued to have your backs, but alas, all good things must come to an end.

But why this farewell, you ask? Well, technology waits for no one, and every day brings new advancements. Technical support helps resolve all those pesky issues that arise with operating systems and DAWs. So, it’s essential to keep up with the times, and managing outdated technology becomes increasingly challenging. It’s a tough decision, but one we’ve made for the greater good. So, in summary, after the specified date (June 3, 2025), SWAM v2 products will no longer be supported and definitively unavailable for download from the user portal.

Now, to all the SWAM v2 owners out there, we understand your attachment, truly. Change can be daunting, which is why we’re sweetening the deal. Until June 3, 2025, you can snag a whopping 75% discount on upgrading to the equivalent SWAM v3 product. It’s a deal you can’t afford to miss! Let’s put it into perspective with a couple of examples:

Got a SWAM Violin v2? Upgrade to v3 for just 30 USD/EUR instead of $120.

Eyeing the SWAM Saxophones v2 -> v3 upgrade? You’ll only pay 63 USD/EUR instead of $250.

A mouthwatering offer indeed, but remember, it expires on June 3, 2025, and cannot be combined with other ongoing offers. So, don’t wait for Black Friday—there won’t be any additional discounts on top of this one. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

We’re well aware that some may find it unfair to be compelled to pay for an upgrade. However, let us explain. Our development team works tirelessly to improve our products and adapt to the ever-changing technological landscape. This constant effort incurs significant costs, which are typically factored into a product’s lifecycle. At some point, refactoring becomes necessary, leading to a new major release. And when we roll out a new release, we add value with new features, improved synthesis engines, and enhanced user experiences.

So, here’s a brief rundown of the differences between the two versions:

• Enhanced Synthesis Engine: Delivering superior sound quality and performance.
• Improved User Experience: The new interface is not just prettier but also more efficient, with organized parameter grouping and clear MIDI mapping. Plus, it’s screen reader accessible!
• Ongoing Improvements: Get new features and fixes FOR FREE in any V3.x product updates.

Making this update is incredibly straightforward—all you have to do is access the user portal at my.audiomodeling.com, where you’ll find the upgrade prices automatically calculated for you and ready for checkout. If you prefer to stick with v2, you can find all the tips you need in our specially curated FAQ list.

Change can be intimidating, but it’s also an opportunity for growth. We’re here to ensure that your musical journey continues seamlessly, whether you’re embracing the new or sticking with the old. Let’s make beautiful music together, now and always!

Are you ready to elevate your String Arrangement skills to new heights? Look no further than Aim Strings – the leading experts in utilizing SWAM Strings Sections to craft mesmerizing K-Pop arrangements.

Who is Aim Strings?

Aim Strings stands at the forefront of K-Pop music production, harnessing the power of SWAM Strings Sections to create captivating arrangements that resonate with audiences worldwide. With a wealth of experience and a keen understanding of the intricacies of string orchestration, Aim Strings has become synonymous with excellence in the industry.

Introducing the Aim Strings Masterclass:

Embark on a transformative journey with the Aim Strings Masterclass, where the esteemed team of string arrangers from Aim Strings unveils the secrets behind their signature K-Pop arrangements. This exclusive masterclass offers invaluable insights into the art and craft of string orchestration, providing aspiring composers and arrangers with the tools they need to excel in their craft.

What to Expect:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Delve into the world of K-Pop string arrangements as Aim Strings guides you through their tried-and-tested methodology from A to Z.
• Special Guest Sessions: Gain invaluable knowledge from industry luminaries with two 90-minute special sessions featuring producer Seong-eun Han and producer Min-hoon Kang.
• Exclusive Conference: Participate in a special 90-minute conference led by Min-hoon Kang, offering unique perspectives and insights into the world of Realistic MIDI string production.
• Learn how to configure SWAM String Sections to emulate real string recording environments and explore techniques for translating a performer’s playing nuances into MIDI.
• Get access to AimStrings’ exclusive presets that are currently being used in published K-Pop songs.
• This masterclass will be held in Korean via YouTube live sessions, with English subtitles available after each session.

Act Now for Special Benefits:

The Founding Period for the Aim Strings Masterclass ends on May 29th, with the masterclass set to launch in June. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn from the best in the industry.

Plus, as a bonus for masterclass participants, enjoy exclusive EDU discounts on all SWAM products!

Here at Audio Modeling, we wholeheartedly endorse and encourage you to join this masterclass. Having had the privilege of witnessing the incredible work of Aim Strings firsthand, we can confidently attest that they are the ultimate authority when it comes to unraveling the beauty and the power of SWAM Strings Sections. With their unparalleled expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence, Aim Strings is poised to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to master and play SWAM Strings Sections like a seasoned professional. Don’t miss out on this invaluable opportunity to learn from the best in the industry and take your music production journey to new heights. Enroll now and unlock the secrets of K-Pop string orchestration with Aim Strings! https://www.wadiz.kr/web/campaign/detail/285719

*If you have difficulty using the Korean website, you can apply for registration directly by emailing: contact@aimstrings.com

For four intense days, the MIDI Association’s booth was buzzing with people eager to witness and engage in the 23 presentations covering various aspects of MIDI 2.0 and the activities of special interest groups. From MIDI in music education to accessibility in music and interactive audio for gaming, there was something for everyone.

Among these presentations, the MIDI Association handpicked those with the most significant impact, the ones likely to make some noise. We’re thrilled and incredibly honored that out of the 14 selected, Audio Modeling is featured in a whopping 4 sessions! If you’re curious to watch them—or perhaps relive the experience if you were fortunate enough to attend NAMM—we’ve provided the links below for your viewing pleasure.

THE MPE PROFILE NAMM 2024 

AUDIO MODELING PRESENTS CAMELOT PRO AND SWAM NAMM 2024

THE MUSIC ACCESSIBILITY STANDARD NAMM 2024

THE MIDI INNOVATION AWARDS NAMM 2024

At Audio Modeling, we’re passionate about pushing the boundaries of music technology and creating innovative solutions for musicians worldwide. Being recognized by the MIDI Association at such a prestigious event is a testament to our dedication to excellence.

So, whether you’re a seasoned musician, an aspiring producer, or simply a music lover, we invite you to check out these sessions and join us on our journey to make music more accessible, enjoyable, and inspiring for all!

Also this year we had the honor of being hosted at ILIO’s booth—an extraordinary partner who made the entire experience even more memorable. We extend our deep gratitude to ILIO for their generous hospitality and for being not only great collaborators but also remarkable individuals to share this incredible journey with.

Stefano Lucato, the talented creator of SWAM, introduced his creations to an audience ranging from producers and composers to sound designers, musical directors, and music enthusiasts of every level. And then, a magical and unforgettable moment unfolded: Stevie Wonder, a living legend, tried out our instruments. Witnessing the master play up close, guiding his virtuoso hands on the keys, was a moment that touched all our hearts. It’s a unique emotion that’s hard to describe—how can we convey the idea? Watching him enjoy playing the SWAM Saxophone, thus exploring a new territory of musical expression, and all this with our instruments! We still have goosebumps of excitement!

A special thanks to the extraordinary artists who accompanied us during these exceptional days. Jon Gilutin enchanted the audience with compositions created using SWAM, while Giacomo Turra and Francesco Dallago delivered incredible moments with their demonstration “Modular Grooves,” utilizing Camelot’s magic to seamlessly change amplifiers and effects on TH-U Overloud without touching the laptop.

Last but not least, we cannot forget Marco Fanton and Sebo Xotta for their incredible demonstration of seamlessly integrating TH-U Overloud with Camelot.

We are happy and still on a high; we wish we could press the rewind button to relive it all, again and again. But the music goes on, and we are ready for new sonic adventures and exciting innovations.

Explore the highlights, behind-the-scenes, and special moments through our YouTube playlist.

We hope this message finds you well and inspired to continue creating beautiful music. We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you – the release of our much-anticipated SWAM String Sections Version 1.1 update! This marks a significant milestone for us, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the unwavering support from our cherished customers and early adopters since our initial release in October.

When we introduced the world to SWAM String Sections, we embarked on a groundbreaking journey into the realm of physically modeled virtual instruments. It was a daring endeavor, and we faced the challenge head-on to bring you a product that redefined the possibilities of digital music creation.

Reflecting on the journey so far, we acknowledge that while sampled instruments have their merits, their limitations are inherently tied to a fixed set of recordings. The beauty of physical modeling lies in its capacity for growth and improvement without the need for additional recording sessions. With your invaluable feedback and trust, we’ve taken significant strides to enhance SWAM String Sections, making it an even more dynamic and responsive tool for your artistic expression.

One of the key focuses of this update has been the improvement of CPU efficiency, ensuring that your creative process remains seamless and fluid. We’ve also listened attentively to your suggestions and integrated features from SWAM Solo Instruments, providing you with an extended range of controls for player accuracy and randomness. This empowers you to shape your compositions with unprecedented precision, allowing for a more nuanced and authentic musical experience.

In addition to these enhancements, our commitment to sonic excellence remains unwavering. The room simulator, already renowned for its exceptional quality, has undergone further refinement, immersing you in a rich and immersive virtual environment.

We extend our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who believed in us from the beginning, becoming early adopters of SWAM String Sections. Your support and feedback have been instrumental in shaping the course of this journey. As a token of appreciation, we invite you to explore the full list of updates and improvements by clicking here.

As we stand on the precipice of a new chapter, we want you to know that this is only the beginning. We are committed to the continuous evolution of SWAM String Sections, and we invite you to join us on this exciting musical adventure. Your ongoing support fuels our passion, and together, we will create extraordinary music that resonates with the soul.

Thank you for being an essential part of the SWAM community. Keep going with us, keep supporting, and let’s continue to make beautiful music together!

Warm regards,

The SWAM String Sections Team

Traditionally, reverb plugins have relied on recorded room impulse responses to recreate acoustic spaces. However, SWAM String Sections takes a revolutionary approach, employing precise mathematical computations to capture the intricate dance of your music with the surfaces of the virtual room.

Select your preferred room, add the necessary sections, fine-tune the size, tweak absorption characteristics, and strategically position your string sections. The flexibility doesn’t end there—reposition the microphone closer for an intimate touch or push it farther away for a lush reverb effect.

What sets the Room Simulator apart is its ray tracing approach, offering a level of realistic precision that transcends the rough approximations of conventional algorithmic reverbs. Say goodbye to hours spent tweaking EQ and effects in pursuit of a lifelike sound; SWAM String Sections Room Simulator brings you closer to reality effortlessly.

While a maestro may skillfully wave a baton to coax the best sound from an orchestra, they are bound by the inherent sound of the concert hall. With SWAM String Sections, you break free from those limitations. Just as adeptly as a maestro conducts a symphony, you can craft the perfect room sound.

The SWAM String Sections Room Simulator is where your music takes a deep dive into innovation.

Watch the magic unfold:

In the video, Sara Pavan performs alongside Paolo Kessisoglu, Lunita Kessisoglu, and Federico Malaman. What makes this performance extraordinary is how Sara, using only an eye tracker and activating sensors, actively participates in the song’s execution alongside other artists. This demonstration not only highlights her musical ability but also serves as tangible evidence of the commitment of Manuele Maestri from “Musica Senza Confini.” Thanks to Manuele’s innovative method and the prototype developed by Audio Modeling and LIM, music becomes a language accessible to everyone, including those living with physical and cognitive disabilities.

The joint project of Audio Modeling, LIM, and “Musica Senza Confini” aims to break down further barriers, leveraging the experience of university research, the music software industry, and the cutting edge of artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies. The goal is to develop innovative software that makes music a universally accessible language.

However, to advance this ambitious initiative, funds and support are needed. We are seeking public and private partners who share our vision and wish to contribute to building a more inclusive musical future.

For more information and to support this cause, please contact us at the email address: info@audiomodeling.com.

Join us and “Musica Senza Confini” in shaping a world where music is truly limitless and accessible to all.