A Superb Circular Sequence Synthesizer
From Frank Elting, lead designer of the popular granular virtual instrument trilogy of Straylight, Pharlight, and Ashlight, comes Circular by Native Instruments. Circular features a quad-layer interface for maximum visualization and sound sculpting control, along with a bounty of FX, detailed sequencer lanes, and a note quantizer for optimal workflow. Designed to promote customization and foster experimentation, Circular also comes equipped with Randomizer options for individual layers and over 250 presets to provide a creative foundation in various styles and keys. For a superb sequence synthesizer with an expressive palette and manipulable parameters, Circular from Native Instruments hits the mark.
Note: This product requires Kontakt Full or Kontakt Player to operate. Please contact your Sweetwater Sales Engineer if you have questions.
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Sketch out your own sequence
With each of the four layers operating independently, you can craft dynamic rhythmic sequences and patterns that can be as straightforward or complex as your mix requires. Combined with the Kontrol S-Series keyboards from Native Instruments, each of the four sequence layers can be accessed via the S-Series keyboard control area. This option allows for a more intuitive flow for composing and live performances, letting you craft and sculpt new sounds on the fly. Circular’s polyphonic aftertouch also transforms static notes into dynamic music patterns on each layer. If you’re unsure where to start, each layer can generate a random rhythm that you can refine with different parameters. Get a little experimental with your production process — you might be surprised at what you end up with!


Dynamic control every step of the way
Each layer comes ready to customize with four FX slots and several sequence lanes for crafting your own sound. Step duration lets you dial in note length for impressive control over your sequence pattern. At the same time, the parameter lane enables you to adjust the velocity, probability, note, note length, and step FX — with each of the 16 steps capable of utilizing up to three effects each. The sound lane controls your sound source and sample parameters for even more precision. Like the sequence layers, each lane also has a randomizer button to give you a creative push in a direction you may not have considered.
Circular comes stocked with 168 unique sounds that are centered around the idea of contrast. Acoustic and synthetic, familiar and strange, and gentle and abrasive are inspired contrasting sonic palettes included in this synthesizer. Expand your combination capacity by importing your own sounds into the 128 sample slots available in Circular. Keep your sequences and polyrhythms sonically aligned with the note quantizer, which music producers and synthesists here at Sweetwater have found to be particularly helpful in making tracks that both follow modern composition norms and more abstract, avant-garde creations in non-traditional keys and modes.
Native Instruments Circular Features:
- Synthesizer virtual instrument with 4 independent sequence layers capable of creating and exploring wholly unique soundscapes
- Each layer is customizable with 4 FX slots
- Polyphonic aftertouch for compatible controllers
- Note quantizer for aligning to specific notes or scales
- 168 distinct onboard sounds
- Import and store your own samples with 128 sample slots
- Record MIDI and transfer it straight to your favorite DAW
- 250+ presets to jump-start the creative process
- Designed by plug-in developer Frank Elting

