From The Verge · Terrence O'Brien · · 1m 40s
Lunacy Audio Nova lets musicians build AI music tools
A new platform lets creators assemble custom synthesizers and effects using AI blocks instead of code, then sell them to other musicians.
In brief
A new platform lets creators assemble custom synthesizers and effects using AI blocks instead of code, then sell them to other musicians. Nova makes music plug-in creation accessible to non-programmers by replacing code with visual blocks and AI prompts, lowering the barrier to entry for tool makers. Originally…
Lunacy launches Nova music platform
Lunacy Audio, maker of creative synths like Cube, just released Nova, a platform where musicians can build and sell custom AI-powered music tools without writing code.
Ten plug-ins available at launch
Nova starts with 10 instruments from Lunacy and partner developers, ranging from chiptune synths to vintage and ambient sounds. The Drift Cassette synth and Silhouettes stand out for their nostalgic and sci-fi tones.
Build tools with blocks, not code
Instead of writing code, creators assemble plug-ins using premade effects blocks and AI prompts. It's similar to Polyend's Endless pedal platform but for music software anyone can use on their computer.
Works in browser and DAWs
Nova plug-ins run directly in a web browser or through a host plug-in in your digital audio workstation. The host lets you browse, load, and swap between plug-ins from your library quickly.
Tools evolve through community remixing
Lunacy envisions Nova as a space where creators can remix and improve existing tools. A step sequencer could get a custom reverb added, then shared again, creating an evolving ecosystem of music software.
“The tools are never fixed; they are always evolving.”
Lunacy courts skeptical musicians
The music community has been cautious about AI tools. Lunacy is developing Nova openly with developer diaries and customer input to avoid the backlash that met similar platforms like Polyend's Endless.
The bottom line
Nova makes music plug-in creation accessible to non-programmers by replacing code with visual blocks and AI prompts, lowering the barrier to entry for tool makers.
