Rankin Audio has released Mainframe, a software synthesizer built for bass-focused electronic music production. It combines dual-layer wavetable synthesis, sample playback, extensive modulation, and an integrated resampling engine. The instrument targets producers working in drum and bass, neurofunk, dubstep, and other bass-heavy genres. Mainframe is available for Windows and macOS.
Dual-Layer Synthesis and Resampling
Mainframe has two oscillator layers, each with two blendable wavetable sources and a dedicated sample lane. Sub-oscillators and noise generators provide additional sound sources. The synthesis engine also supports phase modulation, FM, ring modulation, sync, morphing, and several waveform-warping modes.
Its internal resampling engine lets users record the synthesizer’s processed output directly into a sample lane and use the recording as source material for further sound design. Audio can also be converted into wavetable material. This makes it possible to capture, modify, and reuse sounds within Mainframe rather than moving between the instrument and a separate audio editor for each step.
Filters, Effects, and Modulation
Mainframe has four filter slots with 39 filter types, including Rankin Audio’s Growl filter family. The filters can be routed in series or parallel, allowing users to build different processing configurations.
The Sculpt section combines two saturation stages with a five-band equalizer. The effects section adds 17 processing modules, including distortion, compression, modulation effects, reverb, and pitch shifting.
Modulation sources include four LFOs, four envelopes, two step sequencers, eight macros, an envelope follower, and key tracking. Mainframe also supports up to 16 stacked voices per oscillator, up to three unison copies, MPE, and selectable 1x, 2x, or 4x oversampling.
Presets and Compatibility
Mainframe comes with more than 300 factory presets covering basses, leads, pads, and sound-design effects. Users can start with these presets or build sounds from scratch using its synthesis and resampling tools.
Mainframe runs on 64-bit Windows 10 or later and macOS 11 or later, with support for both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs. It is available as a VST3 plugin for Windows and macOS, an Audio Units plugin for macOS, and a standalone application. The synthesizer has stereo output and supports sample imports in WAV, AIFF, FLAC, and OGG formats.
Pricing and Availability
Rankin Audio Mainframe is available as a paid download for $119. At launch, the introductory US price was reported at $59.50. UK pricing is listed at £99.95, with a launch price of £49.95. The purchase also includes lifetime free updates, according to the developer.
Mainframe combines wavetable synthesis, sample playback, and internal resampling in a single instrument. Its workflow is particularly relevant to producers who create and manipulate complex electronic bass sounds.
