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{{Short description|Graphical modular software music studio}}
{{About|the audio software program|the personal computer game|Reaktor (computer game)}}
{{About|the audio software program|the personal computer game|Reaktor (computer game)|the company|Reaktor (company)}}{{In line citation|date=May 2024}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2013}}
{{Infobox software
{{Infobox software
Line 5: Line 6:
| logo = NI Reaktor Logo.svg
| logo = NI Reaktor Logo.svg
| logo size = 100px
| logo size = 100px
| screenshot =
| screenshot =
| caption = The logo of Reaktor v6
| caption = The logo of Reaktor v6
| developer = [[Native Instruments]]
| developer = [[Native Instruments]]
| latest_release_version = 6.5.0<ref name="reaktor-update">{{Cite web|url=https://community.native-instruments.com/discussion/56/official-update-status-reaktor-current-version-6-5-0/|title=Official update status - Reaktor 6 – Current: 6.5.0|website=www.native-instruments.com|date=5 January 2022 }}</ref>
| latest_release_version = 6.2.0
| latest_release_date = 2017-08-16
| latest_release_date = 2023-04-13<ref name="reaktor-update"/>
| programming language = [[C++]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.soundonsound.com/music-business/10-years-native-instruments|title=10 Years Of Native Instruments|website=www.soundonsound.com}}</ref>
| operating_system = [[macOS]], [[Microsoft Windows]]
| operating_system = [[macOS]], [[Microsoft Windows]]
| genre = [[Modular software music studio]]
| genre = [[Modular software music studio]]
Line 15: Line 17:
| website = [https://www.native-instruments.com/en/products/komplete/synths/reaktor-6/ Reaktor 6 homepage]
| website = [https://www.native-instruments.com/en/products/komplete/synths/reaktor-6/ Reaktor 6 homepage]
}}
}}
'''Reaktor''' is a graphical [[modular software music studio]] developed by [[Native Instruments]] (NI). It lets musicians and sound specialists design and build their own instruments, [[Sampler (musical instrument)|samplers]], effects and sound design tools. It is supplied with many ready-to-use instruments and effects, from emulations of classic [[synthesizer]]s to futuristic sound design tools. In addition, more than 3000 free instruments can be downloaded from the growing User Library. One of Reaktor's unique selling points is that all of its instruments can be freely examined, customized or taken apart; Reaktor is a tool that effectively encourages [[reverse engineering]]. Reaktor Player is a free limited version of the software that allows musicians to play NI-released Reaktor instruments, but not edit or reverse-engineer them.
'''Reaktor''' is a graphical [[modular software music studio]] developed by [[Native Instruments]] (NI). It allows musicians and sound specialists to design and build their own instruments, [[Sampler (musical instrument)|samplers]], effects and sound design tools. It is supplied with many ready-to-use instruments and effects. In addition, free instruments can be downloaded from the User Library. All of Reaktor's instruments can be freely examined, customized, or taken apart, encouraging [[reverse engineering]]. The free, limited version called Reaktor Player allows musicians to play NI-released Reaktor instruments, but not edit or reverse-engineer them.

==Development History==


==Development history==
===Early development===
===Early development===
In 1996, Native Instruments released Generator version 0.96 - a [[Modular synthesizers|modular synthesizer]] for PC, requiring a proprietary audio card for low-latency operation. By 1998, Native Instruments had redesigned the program to include new hierarchy, and integrated third-party drivers for use with any standard Windows sound card. By 1999, Reaktor 2.0 (a.k.a. Generator/Transformator) is released for Windows and Macintosh. Integrated real-time display of filters and envelopes and [[granular synthesis]] are among most notable features. Plug-in support for [[Virtual Studio Technology|VST]], [[VSTi#VST instruments|VSTi]], [[Direct Connect (file sharing)|DirectConnect]], [[Digital Performer|MOTU]], and [[DirectX]] formats is integrated by 2000 (software version 2.3).
In 1996, Native Instruments released Generator version 0.96 - a [[Modular synthesizers|modular synthesizer]] for PC, requiring a proprietary audio card for low-latency operation. By 1998, Native Instruments redesigned the program to include a new hierarchy, and integrated third-party drivers for use with any standard Windows sound card. By 1999, Reaktor 2.0 (a.k.a. Generator/Transformator) was released for [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] and [[Macintosh]]. Integrated real-time display of filters and envelopes and [[granular synthesis]] are among the most notable features. Plug-in support for [[Virtual Studio Technology|VST]], [[VSTi#VST instruments|VSTi]], [[Direct Connect (protocol)|Direct Connect]], [[Digital Performer|MOTU]], and [[DirectX]] formats is integrated by 2000 (software version 2.3).


With version 3.0 (released in 2001), Native Instruments introduced a redesigned audio engine and new graphic design. Further expansion of synthesis and sampling modules, addition of new control-based modules (XY control) and data management (event tables) greatly expands the abilities of the program. The earliest version to really resemble the modern incarnation of the software is version 3.5, which improved greatly in VST performance and sample handling. Reaktor 3.5 is the first release that features full [[cross-platform]] compatibility.<ref name=SOS>{{cite journal|title=REAKTOR TIPS |publisher=SoundOnSound|date=May 2002 |url=http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/May02/articles/reaktortips.asp|accessdate=2007-03-07}}</ref>
With version 3.0 (released in 2001), Native Instruments introduced a redesigned audio engine and new graphic design. Further expansion of synthesis and sampling modules, addition of new control-based modules (XY control) and data management (event tables) greatly expands the abilities of the program. The earliest version to really resemble the modern incarnation of the software is version 3.5, which improved greatly in VST performance and sample handling. Reaktor 3.5 is the first release that features full [[cross-platform]] compatibility.<ref name=SOS>{{cite journal|title=REAKTOR TIPS |publisher=SoundOnSound|date=May 2002 |url=http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/May02/articles/reaktortips.asp|accessdate=2007-03-07}}</ref>


Reaktor 4 was a major enhancement in terms of stability, instrument library, GUI, and VSTi ease-of-use in external sequencers. It shipped almost six months behind schedule.{{Citation needed|date=March 2007}}
Reaktor 4 enhanced stability, instrument library, GUI, and [[VSTi]] ease-of-use in external sequencers. It shipped almost six months behind schedule.{{Citation needed|date=March 2007}}


===Version 5===
===Version 5===
In 2003 Native Instruments hired Vadim Zavalishin, developer of the [[Sync Modular]] software package. Zavalishin ceased the development of his software,<ref name=SynCModularDiscontinued>{{cite web|title=SynC Modular Discontinued |publisher=The Sonic Spot|date=2000-11-29|url=http://www.sonicspot.com/news/00112901.html|accessdate=2007-03-08}}</ref> yet integrated a deeper DSP-level operation within Reaktor, known as Reaktor Core Technology.<ref name=BeforeTheCore>{{cite web|title=NI Reaktor 5|publisher=Sound On Sound|date=2005-09-01 |url=http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/sep05/articles/nireaktor5.htm|accessdate=2007-03-08}}</ref> His contributions, along with those of Reaktor Core developer Martijn Zwartjes, were released within Reaktor 5 in April 2005. Core Technology initially confused a lot of instrument designers because of its complexity, but is now steadily making its way into new instruments and ensembles.{{Citation needed|date=March 2007}}
In 2003 Native Instruments hired Vadim Zavalishin, developer of the [[Sync Modular]] software package. Zavalishin ceased the development of his software,<ref name=SynCModularDiscontinued>{{cite web|title=SynC Modular Discontinued |publisher=The Sonic Spot|date=2000-11-29|url=http://www.sonicspot.com/news/00112901.html|accessdate=2007-03-08}}</ref> yet integrated a deeper DSP-level operation within Reaktor, known as Reaktor Core Technology.<ref name=BeforeTheCore>{{cite web|title=NI Reaktor 5|publisher=Sound On Sound|date=2005-09-01 |url=http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/sep05/articles/nireaktor5.htm|accessdate=2007-03-08}}</ref> His contributions, along with those of Reaktor Core developer Martijn Zwartjes, were released within Reaktor 5 in April 2005. Core Technology initially confused a lot of instrument designers because of its complexity, but is now steadily making its way into new instruments and ensembles.{{Citation needed|date=March 2007}}


Reaktor 5.1, released on 22 December 2005, and presented as a Christmas present, features new Core Cell modules, and a new series of FX and ensembles. Also a number of bug fixes were implemented.
Reaktor 5.1, released on 22 December 2005, features new Core Cell modules, and a new series of FX and ensembles. A number of bug fixes was also implemented.


The release of Reaktor 5.5 was announced for 1 September 2010. It features a revised interface as well as other changes.
The release of Reaktor 5.5 was announced for 1 September 2010. It features a revised interface as well as other changes.


===Version 6===
===Version 6===
Reaktor 6.0 was released on September 9, 2015. It features many new improvements for advanced programmers. A new "Blocks" feature allowed for the development of rackmount style modular "patches" for creating synthesizers and effects.<ref>https://www.native-instruments.com/en/products/komplete/synths/reaktor-6/</ref>
Reaktor 6.0 was released on September 9, 2015. It features many new improvements for advanced programmers. A new "Blocks" feature allowed for the development of rackmount style modular "patches" for creating synthesizers and effects.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.native-instruments.com/en/products/komplete/synths/reaktor-6/|title = Synths : Reaktor 6 &#124; Komplete}}</ref> VST3 support was added with version 6.5.0.


==Functionality==
==Functionality==
From the end-user standpoint, Reaktor can behave as a sound creation/manipulation tool with a modular interface, provided there is enough CPU to manage its sample decryption processes.<ref name=Review1>{{cite journal|title=Native Instruments' Reaktor 5 Review |publisher=FutureMusic|date=2006-05-08 |url=http://www.futuremusic.com/news/testdrive/reaktor5.html|accessdate=2007-03-09}}</ref> Its patches consist of modules, connected by lines to provide a visual interpretation of signal flow. The building blocks used give Reaktor users freedom of choice to help shape their sound design. The modules are categorized into particular hierarchy to aid clarity in patching.
<!-- Deleted image removed: [[File:Reaktor structure.PNG|thumb|left|300px|An example of a Reaktor 5 ensemble Structure]] -->
From the end-user standpoint, Reaktor is a sound creation/manipulation tool with a modular interface.<ref name=Review1>{{cite journal|title=Native Instruments' Reaktor 5 Review |publisher=FutureMusic|date=2006-05-08 |url=http://www.futuremusic.com/news/testdrive/reaktor5.html|accessdate=2007-03-09}}</ref> Its patches consist of modules, connected by lines to provide a visual interpretation of signal flow. The building blocks used give Reaktor users freedom of choice to help shape their sound design. The modules are categorized into particular hierarchy to aid clarity in patching.


The patcher window allows one to navigate the inner structure of user's models. Many factory-shipped objects within Reaktor can be accessed and edited, and new objects can be generated on the fly. Each of the Reaktor modules is defined by its inner workings, and expansion thereof to the users' specification comes with relative ease.<ref name=Review2>{{cite journal|title=NI Reaktor 5 Review |publisher=Sound On Sound|date=2005-09-01 |url=http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/sep05/articles/nireaktor5.htm|accessdate=2007-03-09}}</ref>
The patcher window allows one to navigate the inner structure of user's models. Many factory-shipped objects within Reaktor can be accessed and edited, and new objects can be generated on the fly, expansion thereof to the users' specification coming with relative ease.<ref name=Review2>{{cite journal|title=NI Reaktor 5 Review |publisher=Sound On Sound|date=2005-09-01 |url=http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/sep05/articles/nireaktor5.htm|accessdate=2007-03-09}}</ref>


The objects that are available within Reaktor range from simple math operators to large sound modules. Implementation of Core Technology with version 5 enables user to view and edit the structure of any "Core Module" building block. Although such editing can be an exceptionally powerful tool,<ref name=NICorePage>{{cite web|title=Reaktor 5: Core Technology |publisher=Native Instruments|year=2005 |url=http://www.native-instruments.com/index.php?id=coretechnology_us|accessdate=2007-03-09 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20061125062715/http://www.native-instruments.com/index.php?id=coretechnology_us <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archivedate = 2006-11-25}}</ref> successful manipulation of Core Cells with predictable results requires in-depth knowledge of algorithmic implementation of signal generation and processing. Native Instruments promote this functionality with online side-by-side comparison of Core implementation of simple [[Digital signal processing|DSP]] algorithm against [[C++]] [[pseudocode]].<ref>http://co.native-instruments.com/index.php?id=r5core1</ref><ref>http://co.native-instruments.com/index.php?id=r5core2</ref>
The objects that are available within Reaktor range from simple math operators to large sound modules. Implementation of Core Technology with version 5 enables user to view and edit the structure of any "Core Module" building block, although successful manipulation of Core Cells with predictable results requires in-depth knowledge of algorithmic implementation of signal generation and processing. Native Instruments promote this functionality with online side-by-side comparison of Core implementation of simple [[Digital signal processing|DSP]] algorithm against [[C++]] [[pseudocode]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://co.native-instruments.com/index.php?id=r5core1 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101124122125/http://co.native-instruments.com/index.php?id=r5core1 |archive-date=24 November 2010 |title=core example 1}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://co.native-instruments.com/index.php?id=r5core2 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101124123609/http://co.native-instruments.com/index.php?id=r5core2 |archive-date=24 November 2010 |title=core example 2}}</ref>


Reaktor enables a user to implement variables (static or dynamic) which are used as defining properties of the patch. Users have an ability to generate a [[GUI]] of their own to provide dynamic control to their systems. Starting with version 4, Reaktor supports user-generated graphical content, enabling many users to generate original look and feel of their instruments.
Provided adequate CPU is available, Reaktor enables a user to implement variables (static or dynamic) which are used as defining properties of the patch. Users have an ability to generate a [[GUI]] of their own to provide dynamic control to their systems. Starting with version 4, Reaktor supports user-generated graphical content, enabling users to customize their instruments.


A finished Reaktor ensemble may be loaded into a host sequencer (such as [[Steinberg]] [[Cubase]] or [[Ableton]] [[Ableton Live|Live]]), and used as a stand-alone software [[Plug-in (computing)|plug-in]] for audio generation or processing (a multi-format proprietary loader is included with the software). Each panel control in the ensemble is capable of [[MIDI]] automation in the host sequencer.
Depending on the available processing power, a finished Reaktor ensemble may be loaded into a host sequencer (such as [[Steinberg]] [[Cubase]] or [[Ableton Live]]), and used in a similar manner to a stand-alone software [[Plug-in (computing)|plug-in]] for audio generation or processing (a multi-format proprietary loader is included with the software). Unlike truly stand alone devices, like VST plug-ins, Reaktor ensembles must be loaded in host sequencers using the Reaktor platform, which requires about 10 times the CPU processing power of more sophisticated VST. Each panel control in the ensemble is capable of [[MIDI]] automation in the host sequencer.


==Reaktor Ensembles==
==Reaktor Ensembles==
The Reaktor Library is one of the prominent features of the software, featuring a large variety of sound generators and effects that can be used as stand-alone instruments, or as an educational resource for reverse engineering. Reaktor 4 featured a library of 31 Reaktor ensembles. The fifth generation of software came with 32 new modules (though some were upgrades of Reaktor 4 Library tools). The libraries provide a mixture of conventional implementation of software synthesizers, samplers, and effects, along with a few ensembles of experimental nature, with emphasis on parametric algorithmic composition and extensive sound processing. Due to complete backwards-compatibility between later versions of the software, Reaktor 5 users have access to all 63 proprietary ensembles in Reaktor Library.
The Reaktor Library is one of the prominent features of the software, featuring a large variety of sound generators and effects that can be used as stand-alone instruments, or as an educational resource for reverse engineering. Reaktor 4 featured a library of 31 Reaktor ensembles. The fifth generation of software came with 32 new modules (though some were upgrades of Reaktor 4 Library tools). The libraries provide a mixture of conventional implementation of software synthesizers, samplers, and effects, along with a few ensembles of experimental nature, with emphasis on parametric algorithmic composition and extensive sound processing. Due to complete backwards-compatibility between later versions of the software, Reaktor 5 users have access to all 63 proprietary ensembles in Reaktor Library.


Furthermore, home-brew Reaktor ensembles can be shared by its users. Such exchange is encouraged by Native Instruments, characterized by the company's dedication for providing web-based tools and webspace for individual and third-party Reaktor extensions (this includes user Ensembles and presets for Reaktor Instruments and Effects).
Furthermore, home-brew Reaktor ensembles can be shared by its users. Such exchange is encouraged by Native Instruments, providing web-based tools and webspace for individual and third-party Reaktor extensions (this includes user Ensembles and presets for Reaktor Instruments and Effects).

===Reaktor 4 Library===

{{col-begin|width=auto}}
{{col-break}}

====Synthesizers====

* Carbon
* Green Matrix
* Junatik
* Kaleidon
* Nanowave
* P-Bass
* Steampipe
* Sum Synth
* Uranus

{{col-break|gap=2em}}

====Sequencers====

* Blue Matrix
* DSQ-32 Drummachine
* Vierring
* WaveWeaver

{{col-break|gap=2em}}

====Samplers====

* Grainstates SP
* Travelizer
* Beat Slicer
* Memory Drum

====Live====

* GoBox
* Scenario

{{col-break|gap=2em}}

====Effects====

* Space Master Stereo
* Space Master Quadro
* Space Master 5.1 Surround
* Banaan Electric
* Analogic Filter Box
* Echomania
* Spring Tank
* Classic Vocoder
* Fusion Reflections
* Grainstates FX
* Two Knees Compressor
* Flatblaster

{{col-end}}
<ref name=NativeInstrumentsR4>{{cite web|title=Native Instruments Reaktor 4 Library |publisher=Native Instruments|year=1999 |url=http://www.nativeinstruments.de/index.php?id=reaktorlibr_us|accessdate=2007-03-08}}</ref>

====Reaktor 5 Library====
{{col-begin|width=auto}}
{{col-break}}

=====Synthesizers<ref name=NativeInstrumentsR51>{{cite web|title=Native Instruments Reaktor 5 Library (page 1)|publisher=Native Instruments|year=2004 |url=http://www.nativeinstruments.de/index.php?id=r5library_us&ftu=3276a7afeb32e58|accessdate=2007-03-08}}</ref>=====
* 2-Osc
* Carbon 2
* Equinoxe Deluxe
* Form
* FM4
* FM4 Dual
* Gaugear
* Lazerbass
* [[Monark (software synthesizer)|Monark]]
* Oki Computer 2
* Steampipe 2
* Subharmonic

{{col-break|gap=2em}}

=====Grooveboxes<ref name="NativeInstrumentsR51"/>=====
* Aerobic
* Massive
* Newscool
* Sinebeats 2

{{col-break|gap=2em}}

=====Algorithmic<ref name=NativeInstrumentsR52>{{cite web|title=Native Instruments Reaktor 5 Library (page 2)|publisher=Native Instruments|year=2004 |url=http://www.nativeinstruments.de/index.php?id=r5library2_us&ftu=3276a7afeb32e58|accessdate=2007-03-08 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20070927200238/http://www.nativeinstruments.de/index.php?id=r5library2_us&ftu=3276a7afeb32e58 <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archivedate = 2007-09-27}}</ref>=====
* Skrewell
* Spacedrone

=====Samplers<ref name="NativeInstrumentsR52"/>=====
* L3
* Random Step Shifter
* Splitter
* Vectory
* Ands, Glex
* Beatslicer 2
* Memory Drum 2

{{col-break|gap=2em}}

=====Sequencers<ref name=NativeInstrumentsR53>{{cite web|title=Native Instruments Reaktor 5 Library (page 3)|publisher=Native Instruments|year=2004 |url=http://www.nativeinstruments.de/index.php?id=r5library3_us&ftu=3276a7afeb32e58|accessdate=2007-03-08 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20070927200135/http://www.nativeinstruments.de/index.php?id=r5library3_us&ftu=3276a7afeb32e58 <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archivedate = 2007-09-27}}</ref>=====
* SQP
* SQ16
* SQ 8x8
* SQ8
* Snapper
* SQx
* Spiral

=====Effects<ref name="NativeInstrumentsR53"/>=====
* Flatblaster 2
* Space Master 2
* Lurker
{{col-end}}
<!-- ==Core Technology== NEEDS TO BE WITHOUT ORIGINAL RESEARCH -->


==See also==
==See also==
Line 182: Line 63:
== External links ==
== External links ==
{{Wikibooks}}
{{Wikibooks}}
*[https://www.native-instruments.com/en/products/komplete/synths/reaktor-5/ Reaktor 5 homepage]
*[https://www.native-instruments.com/en/products/komplete/synths/reaktor-6/ Reaktor 6 homepage]
*[http://reaktortips.com/ Reaktor Tips, the Reaktor tutorial project] tutorials and downloads
*[http://kore.noisepages.com/ Kore, Komplete, Reaktor at CDM] tutorials, screencasts and downloads of Reaktor ensembles and other Native Instruments related material
*[[Wikibooks:Reaktor|Wikibooks Reaktor pages]]
*[http://www.mortmain.com/reaktor.html Reaktor Resources] - links to anyone and anything Reaktor related
*[http://www.swiftkick.com/ Swiftkick] - downloadable Reaktor 3 Wizoo book - out of date but still useful for new builders
*[http://reaktordiary.blogspot.com/ Reaktor Diary] no longer updated but has some great info
*[http://www.matsc.net/reaktor%20tutorial.html matsc:s Reaktor tutorial] some tutorials here
*[http://reaktorforyou.livejournal.com/ Reaktor For You Community] archived resources, no longer actively maintained


{{Native Instruments}}
{{Native Instruments}}

Latest revision as of 21:44, 10 June 2024

This article is about the audio software program. For the personal computer game, see Reaktor (computer game). For the company, see Reaktor (company).

Reaktor
Developer(s)Native Instruments
Stable release
6.5.0[1] / 2023-04-13[1]
Written inC++[2]
Operating systemmacOS, Microsoft Windows
TypeModular software music studio
LicenseProprietary
WebsiteReaktor 6 homepage

Reaktor is a graphical modular software music studio developed by Native Instruments (NI). It allows musicians and sound specialists to design and build their own instruments, samplers, effects and sound design tools. It is supplied with many ready-to-use instruments and effects. In addition, free instruments can be downloaded from the User Library. All of Reaktor's instruments can be freely examined, customized, or taken apart, encouraging reverse engineering. The free, limited version called Reaktor Player allows musicians to play NI-released Reaktor instruments, but not edit or reverse-engineer them.

Development history

[edit]

Early development

[edit]

In 1996, Native Instruments released Generator version 0.96 - a modular synthesizer for PC, requiring a proprietary audio card for low-latency operation. By 1998, Native Instruments redesigned the program to include a new hierarchy, and integrated third-party drivers for use with any standard Windows sound card. By 1999, Reaktor 2.0 (a.k.a. Generator/Transformator) was released for Windows and Macintosh. Integrated real-time display of filters and envelopes and granular synthesis are among the most notable features. Plug-in support for VST, VSTi, Direct Connect, MOTU, and DirectX formats is integrated by 2000 (software version 2.3).

With version 3.0 (released in 2001), Native Instruments introduced a redesigned audio engine and new graphic design. Further expansion of synthesis and sampling modules, addition of new control-based modules (XY control) and data management (event tables) greatly expands the abilities of the program. The earliest version to really resemble the modern incarnation of the software is version 3.5, which improved greatly in VST performance and sample handling. Reaktor 3.5 is the first release that features full cross-platform compatibility.[3]

Reaktor 4 enhanced stability, instrument library, GUI, and VSTi ease-of-use in external sequencers. It shipped almost six months behind schedule.[citation needed]

Version 5

[edit]

In 2003 Native Instruments hired Vadim Zavalishin, developer of the Sync Modular software package. Zavalishin ceased the development of his software,[4] yet integrated a deeper DSP-level operation within Reaktor, known as Reaktor Core Technology.[5] His contributions, along with those of Reaktor Core developer Martijn Zwartjes, were released within Reaktor 5 in April 2005. Core Technology initially confused a lot of instrument designers because of its complexity, but is now steadily making its way into new instruments and ensembles.[citation needed]

Reaktor 5.1, released on 22 December 2005, features new Core Cell modules, and a new series of FX and ensembles. A number of bug fixes was also implemented.

The release of Reaktor 5.5 was announced for 1 September 2010. It features a revised interface as well as other changes.

Version 6

[edit]

Reaktor 6.0 was released on September 9, 2015. It features many new improvements for advanced programmers. A new "Blocks" feature allowed for the development of rackmount style modular "patches" for creating synthesizers and effects.[6] VST3 support was added with version 6.5.0.

Functionality

[edit]

From the end-user standpoint, Reaktor can behave as a sound creation/manipulation tool with a modular interface, provided there is enough CPU to manage its sample decryption processes.[7] Its patches consist of modules, connected by lines to provide a visual interpretation of signal flow. The building blocks used give Reaktor users freedom of choice to help shape their sound design. The modules are categorized into particular hierarchy to aid clarity in patching.

The patcher window allows one to navigate the inner structure of user's models. Many factory-shipped objects within Reaktor can be accessed and edited, and new objects can be generated on the fly, expansion thereof to the users' specification coming with relative ease.[8]

The objects that are available within Reaktor range from simple math operators to large sound modules. Implementation of Core Technology with version 5 enables user to view and edit the structure of any "Core Module" building block, although successful manipulation of Core Cells with predictable results requires in-depth knowledge of algorithmic implementation of signal generation and processing. Native Instruments promote this functionality with online side-by-side comparison of Core implementation of simple DSP algorithm against C++ pseudocode.[9][10]

Provided adequate CPU is available, Reaktor enables a user to implement variables (static or dynamic) which are used as defining properties of the patch. Users have an ability to generate a GUI of their own to provide dynamic control to their systems. Starting with version 4, Reaktor supports user-generated graphical content, enabling users to customize their instruments.

Depending on the available processing power, a finished Reaktor ensemble may be loaded into a host sequencer (such as Steinberg Cubase or Ableton Live), and used in a similar manner to a stand-alone software plug-in for audio generation or processing (a multi-format proprietary loader is included with the software). Unlike truly stand alone devices, like VST plug-ins, Reaktor ensembles must be loaded in host sequencers using the Reaktor platform, which requires about 10 times the CPU processing power of more sophisticated VST. Each panel control in the ensemble is capable of MIDI automation in the host sequencer.

Reaktor Ensembles

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The Reaktor Library is one of the prominent features of the software, featuring a large variety of sound generators and effects that can be used as stand-alone instruments, or as an educational resource for reverse engineering. Reaktor 4 featured a library of 31 Reaktor ensembles. The fifth generation of software came with 32 new modules (though some were upgrades of Reaktor 4 Library tools). The libraries provide a mixture of conventional implementation of software synthesizers, samplers, and effects, along with a few ensembles of experimental nature, with emphasis on parametric algorithmic composition and extensive sound processing. Due to complete backwards-compatibility between later versions of the software, Reaktor 5 users have access to all 63 proprietary ensembles in Reaktor Library.

Furthermore, home-brew Reaktor ensembles can be shared by its users. Such exchange is encouraged by Native Instruments, providing web-based tools and webspace for individual and third-party Reaktor extensions (this includes user Ensembles and presets for Reaktor Instruments and Effects).

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b "Official update status - Reaktor 6 – Current: 6.5.0". www.native-instruments.com. 5 January 2022.
  2. ^ "10 Years Of Native Instruments". www.soundonsound.com.
  3. ^ "REAKTOR TIPS". SoundOnSound. May 2002. Retrieved 7 March 2007. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
  4. ^ "SynC Modular Discontinued". The Sonic Spot. 29 November 2000. Retrieved 8 March 2007.
  5. ^ "NI Reaktor 5". Sound On Sound. 1 September 2005. Retrieved 8 March 2007.
  6. ^ "Synths : Reaktor 6 | Komplete".
  7. ^ "Native Instruments' Reaktor 5 Review". FutureMusic. 8 May 2006. Retrieved 9 March 2007. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
  8. ^ "NI Reaktor 5 Review". Sound On Sound. 1 September 2005. Retrieved 9 March 2007. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
  9. ^ "core example 1". Archived from the original on 24 November 2010.
  10. ^ "core example 2". Archived from the original on 24 November 2010.
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