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Figure

Page history last edited by Max 11 years ago

Figure Review

by ~~Max~~

Description

Figure is an iOS app created by Propellerhead Software. Usage requires an iOS device with OS version 5.0+.

It's a touch-based music production app with drum, bass and lead synth components that can all be arranged, modified with effects (whose settings can also be recorded along with the music), and exported to Soundcloud, file, or copied into another music app. The user can designate a key, mode, and tempo to act as the basis for all notes accessible and the rates at which they play. There's also a simple mixer to coordinate the three tracks. The interface is based around piano-like bars across the screen which act as notes or drum samples; touching different points across the x- and y-axis will produce notes of differing volume and quality.

Access

Figure is $0.99 in the iOS App Store and requires an iDevice (iOS 5.0+).

Sample Usage

figure.mp3

What the Tool Does Well

Figure does a phenomenal job of remaining accessible while actually providing a wide array of options and sounds. The ability export was added after its release, and increases its viability for use in production. The app is powered by technologies that are dramatically more expensive on the desktop, so Figure provides an easy and beautiful way for anyone to dip their toe into music production and create something of quality.

What it Does Poorly

The interface, while highly useable, is occasionally a bit too opaque. This obscurity of notes or of the usual facets of MIDI available to pro or 'prosumer' users can be frustrating, along with a very simplistic editing editing process. The three instruments and their effects do allow a variety of sounds and styles, but it's still a very limited set that may either get less useful or interesting over time.