# GrainHeads

> Granular sampler/synthesizer

Canonical page: [https://chrome-stats.com/d/id6760582834](https://chrome-stats.com/d/id6760582834)

## Overview

- **ID:** `id6760582834`
- **Platform:** Apple
- **Type:** Apple app
- **Status:** Available
- **Publisher:** Andrei Nevar
- **Category:** Music
- **Rating:** 4.70 / 5 (14 ratings)
- **Version:** 4.10
- **Last updated:** 2026-09-17
- **First published:** 2026-03-21
- **Size:** 113 MB
- **Data as of:** 2026-09-27
- **Store listing:** [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/grainheads/id6760582834)
- **Website:** [https://grainheads.app/](https://grainheads.app/)
- **Privacy policy:** [https://grainheads.app/privacy.html](https://grainheads.app/privacy.html)

## Description

GrainHeads is a granular synthesizer that turns any sound into something entirely new. Built for sound designers, musicians, and experimental producers who want deep, hands-on control over texture and motion.                                                                                                                                                                               

Multi-source granular engine 
Load material into four sample slots and deploy independent playheads — each targeting its own source. Blend, crossfade, or dynamically switch between samples using modulation. The result: rich, multi-layered textures that evolve continuously without repetition.

Shape every grain 
Each playhead carries a full set of granular parameters — position, scan speed, grain size, pitch, chance — plus a drawable grain envelope. Sculpt transient character using splinter or Bézier curves for anything from soft clouds to sharp, percussive fragments.

Modulate everything, from everywhere
A summing modulation matrix lets multiple sources target the same parameter simultaneously. Assign LFOs, envelopes, and sequencer lanes to virtually any control — including sample slot selection, filter cutoff, and even other LFOs. Filter envelopes add per-step timbral motion in Sequencer mode.

Sequencer with parameter lanes
Go beyond note patterns. The step sequencer locks any parameter per step — pitch, position, filter, grain size — with polyrhythmic lengths and clock divisions. Each playhead runs its own sequence independently.

Macros for expressive control
Four macro axes map multiple parameters to simple X/Y gestures — Time Smear, Spatial Bloom, Degradation, Complexity. Combined with the 4-finger 2D touch pad controlling up to 8 parameters, GrainHeads becomes a performance instrument.

Effects that reshape the signal
A re-routable effects chain includes delay, reverb, lo-fi degradation, and filtering — with adjustable signal flow so effects interact in the order you choose.                                   

Key Features                                                                                                                                                                                      

  • AUv3 instrument and effect plugins — use standalone or inside your DAW
  • Up to 8 independent granular playheads
  • 4 sample slots with per-playhead source selection
  • Drawable grain envelope (splinter / Bézier curves)
  • Summing modulation matrix — multiple LFOs, envelopes, and sequencer lanes per target
  • LFO-on-LFO modulation for deeply nested movement
  • Step sequencer with parameter locking and polyrhythmic clock divisions
  • Filter envelope per step (Sequencer mode)
  • Per-playhead dual Moog-style ladder filter (self-oscillating, with overdrive) with link and mirror modes
  • 4 macro axes (X/Y pads) for multi-parameter gestures
  • Re-routable effects section (delay, reverb, lo-fi, noise, limiter)
  • Scale quantization — chromatic, major, minor, and exotic modes
  • Dice — one-tap randomization for instant inspiration
  • Ableton Link
  • Import/export presets
  • Customizable look and feel
   
PRO version unlocks loading external samples and microphone recording.
GrainHeads turns granular synthesis into a hands-on instrument — not a menu-diving exercise.

## Rankings

- #284,571 — Overall

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Source: [Chrome-Stats](https://chrome-stats.com/d/id6760582834)