In this course, I explore Output’s Portal granular effects plugin and show how to transform vocals, percussion and basslines with presets, modulation and automation. Learn to create movement, texture, glitches and ear candy using sounds already in your track.
Course Details
I introduce Portal by Output, one of my favourite tools for creative sound design. I explain how this granular effects plugin can transform simple sounds into evolving textures, atmospheric layers and unexpected ear candy, adding movement and fresh ideas to your productions.
I take a quick look at Portal’s interface and explain the ways to access it, including a standalone purchase and subscription options through Splice or Output. I also break down the basics of granular processing, showing how tiny slices of audio can be stretched, pitched, reversed and scattered to create entirely new sounds.
I open one of my Cubase projects to demonstrate how I use Portal on vocals, a conga loop and a bass synth. I explore presets, the XY control, dry/wet balance, modulation and automation to introduce glitchy vocal moments, percussive rolls, stereo movement and subtle effects. I also show why manipulating sounds already in your track can be more effective than adding extra layers.