Mela 6.8 Introduces Gain Computer: A Powerful Modulator for Custom Dynamics Processing
Mela 6.8 introduces the Gain Computer module, a powerful modulator for creating custom dynamics processors. Depending on its settings and placement within a preset, it can be used to build effects such as a feedback compressor, upward expander, look-ahead limiter, side-chain gate, or de-esser. Like the gain computers in traditional dynamics processors, it computes gain reduction or expansion from the input audio signal. However, instead of applying the gain change directly, it generates a modulation signal. This signal can then be used to modulate a Gain module or any other parameter to produce dynamic effects.
The new Gain module applies gain to the audio signal. While it is designed to pair well with the Gain Computer module, it can also be used independently in a variety of other ways.
Mela 6.8 also adds latency support. This feature is integrated into the Audio In and MIDI In modules, which now include a new parameter called Ahead. This parameter sets how far in advance Mela requests audio and MIDI events from the host, allowing processing to begin before the events would normally occur. For example, it enables an envelope follower to detect transients before they are heard. This feature is commonly referred to as plug-in latency. Note that most iOS hosts do not yet support plug-in latency compensation and may ignore this setting. The “Latency Test” factory preset can help users check DAW support and assist developers with testing and debugging their hosts.
There’s a lot more in this update. For the full details, check out the Changelog.
Latest Tutorials
This video highlights the new features in Mela 6.8, including a high-level overview of the Gain Computer module and how to use it to create downward and upward compressors and expanders. It also explains feedforward and feedback dynamics processor topologies, demonstrates how the Gain module simplifies signal routing, and covers the latency support feature.
This video kicks off a tutorial series on the Gain Computer module. The series demonstrates different ways the module can be used to create various types of dynamics processors. Part 1 provides a quick overview of the module and uses the Gain module to build simple compressor and expander effects.
Continuing the Gain Computer tutorial series, this video demonstrates how to create a feedback-style compressor. Towards the end, it compares feed-forward and feedback topologies. In this case, the difference is subtle, so headphones are recommended for the best results.
Why should I get Mela? What’s so special about it?
I saw a few people around the web ask this question. I thought I’d address it here. Simply put, Mela is a modular music-making tool that scales with your needs. Expanding on this, its 3 core strengths are:
- Mela is Visual and Modular. With its intuitive interface, you can seamlessly build fully custom polyphonic synthesisers, unique audio effects, and complex MIDI processors.
- Mela Scales. It can be a core part of your system or a small utility to let you perform niche tasks. Mela can run as a standalone app or multiple plug-in instances in a host, on macOS and iOS.
- Mela has Great Support. Its capabilities continuously improve, evolve and expand. A new version of Mela comes out every few weeks with new features and modules designed around user feedback.
Artist Presets & Themes
There are dedicated pages for Artist Presets and Artist Themes. If you have created Mela presets (whether paid or free) or a theme you want to share with others let me know and I’ll happily link them there.
About Me
Hi, my name is Nikolozi Meladze. I’m the creator of Mela. I’m developing it as my primary tool for music-making and live performance. I’ve been releasing music since 2010, exploring all sub-genres of electronic music. Be sure to check out my discography.