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Description

Unlock a universe of sound design with Output PORTAL, a granular synthesis FX plugin designed to bring your audio creations to life. Whether you’re transforming VSTs, drum samples, or live inputs like vocals and guitars, PORTAL takes granular synthesis beyond the abstract, delivering musical results closely tied to the original input. This plugin offers a seamless blend of creativity and control, allowing musicians and sound designers to explore infinite possibilities with ease.

PORTAL features an intuitive circular visualizer that links directly to granular parameters, simplifying the often complex world of granular synthesis. With over 250 professionally crafted presets, you can achieve stunning results right out of the box. Dive deeper into sound manipulation with advanced features such as tempo-synced grain delays, musical scale-based pitch modulation, and the ability to humanize envelopes for more organic soundscapes.

The plugin also includes seven built-in effects and a master compressor and filter, offering comprehensive sound shaping tools. For those who love tweaking, PORTAL’s advanced mode provides full parameter access, while a value readout panel ensures you have a clear understanding of every control. The favorites feature in the presets menu allows you to save your go-to settings, and built-in tool tips guide you through the more complex aspects of the plugin, making it user-friendly for both beginners and seasoned pros.

Key Features:

  • 250+ presets for immediate playability
  • Circular visualizer linked to granular parameters
  • Powerful time manipulation engine
  • Tempo-synced grain delay
  • Musical scale-based pitch modulation
  • 7 built-in FX with an additional master compressor and filter
  • Value readout panel for better understanding of controls
  • Favoriting feature in Presets menu
  • Built-in Tool Tips on Advanced page

Product specs

Available since June 2019
Los artikel / bundelartikel Los artikel
Delay No
Dynamics No
Effect Filter No
Encoder/Decoder No
Equalizer No
Guitar amps/-effects No
Channel Strip No
Metering / Analysis / Correction No
Modulation Effects Yes
Multieffect / Plugin-Host No
Overdrive/Distortion No
Preamp / Saturation No
Psychoacoustic tool / Enhancer / Exciter No
Restauration No
Reverb No
Special FX Yes
Summer / Mixing Consoles No
Tape Simulation No
Pitch Shifter / Harmonizer / Timestretching No
Transient Processing No
Vocoder / Vocal effect No
Mastering Tools No
Hardware Controller No
Download 1

FAQs

What is Output PORTAL primarily used for?

Output PORTAL is a granular effects plugin designed to transform audio in real-time, offering unique sound design possibilities for producers looking to create complex textures and innovative soundscapes.

Is Output PORTAL compatible with popular DAWs?

Yes, Output PORTAL is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, and FL Studio, as it supports VST, AU, and AAX plugin formats.

Does Output PORTAL require any additional software to operate?

No, Output PORTAL operates as a standalone plugin and does not require additional software like Kontakt to function.

What are the standout features of Output PORTAL?

Output PORTAL features a user-friendly interface, advanced granular synthesis controls, and a variety of modulation effects that allow for creative manipulation of audio, making it ideal for experimental sound design.

Can Output PORTAL be used for live performances?

Yes, Output PORTAL is suitable for live performances due to its real-time processing capabilities, allowing musicians to manipulate audio dynamically during a set.

Output

Output

Output PORTAL - Favorite Presets (Updated Spring 2020)

Video thumbnail for Output PORTAL - Favorite Presets (Updated Spring 2020) by Output

Output PORTAL - Favorite Presets (Updated Spring 2020)

Output

Output

Video thumbnail for PORTAL by Output - Granular FX Plugin by Output

PORTAL by Output - Granular FX Plugin

Output

Output

Video thumbnail for Portal by Output - Granular FX Plugin - First Look by ADSR Music Production Tutorials

Portal by Output - Granular FX Plugin - First Look

ADSR Music Production Tutorials

ADSR Music Production Tutorials

Video thumbnail for How to Use PORTAL VST | Output Portal Tutorial by Splitmind

How to Use PORTAL VST | Output Portal Tutorial

Splitmind

Splitmind

Video thumbnail for 5 Best Ways to Use Output Portal | Granular FX Plugin by This Is Onesto

5 Best Ways to Use Output Portal | Granular FX Plugin

This Is Onesto

This Is Onesto

Video thumbnail for Output Portal Granular Plugin - Why It's So Awesome by Dash Glitch

Output Portal Granular Plugin - Why It's So Awesome

Dash Glitch

Dash Glitch

Video thumbnail for How to Use Portal by Output by Zen World - Evolution Of Sound

How to Use Portal by Output

Zen World - Evolution Of Sound

Zen World - Evolution Of Sound

Video thumbnail for Portal by Output: Simplifying The Greatest FX Plugin (TUTORIAL) by Micah Weston

Portal by Output: Simplifying The Greatest FX Plugin (TUTORIAL)

Micah Weston

Micah Weston

Video thumbnail for Portal | Granular FX Plugin | Listen to Our Favorite Presets by Output

Portal | Granular FX Plugin | Listen to Our Favorite Presets

Output

Output

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional audio manipulation, easily morph and reshape sounds

  • Loaded as an effect, not an instrument, for versatile use

  • Great modulation potential for creative sound design

  • Enhances stale sounds like HiHats or Claps with added dimensions

  • Rich, varied sound sculpting capabilities for unique soundscapes

  • VST2 and VST3 versions available for compatibility

  • MIDI mappable parameters for enhanced control

  • Surprisingly light CPU usage compared to similar plugins

  • Time and pitch stretching algorithms are highly pleasing

  • Random/humanize features keep sound fresh and unpredictable

CONS

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Output PORTAL.

Features and functionality

  • Factory presets often produce extreme effects, making samples sound out of time; exporting and realigning audio can fix timing issues.

    Source
  • Portal's core strength lies in its grain control, which dictates how audio is buffered and chopped, enhancing user manipulation and creativity.

    Source
  • The granular delay and FX sections in Portal provide additional layers of complexity, allowing users to create dynamic textures beyond basic granular manipulation.

    Source

User experience

  • Multiple users report improved results when using Portal minimally, mixing it in with the dry signal rather than at full intensity.

    Source
  • It's recommended to thoroughly learn Portal rather than relying on expansions, as these do not add new functionality and may not be cost-effective.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • External preset banks, like those from Synth Diaries or Jay Cactus, are recommended for better results over the stock presets.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Portal is effective for creating transitions, vocal effects, and background textures when used creatively.

    Source
  • Portal is highlighted for adding character and interest to non-foreground parts, described as adding "little production sparkles."

    Source
  • For effective sound design, record sessions while tweaking parameters, then extract the best segments, as Portal excels in spontaneous creativity rather than precision.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Users note Portal's CPU intensity can be high, making it potentially demanding on some systems.

    Source
  • The absence of trial versions for Output plugins is highlighted, but the Splice rent-to-own program offers a three-day free trial for Portal.

    Source
  • To grasp Portal's functionality, disable the grain delay and FX initially, focusing solely on understanding the granular section to better navigate its intuitive yet unpredictable nature.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users compare Portal to free plugins like CRMBL, suggesting similar effects might be achieved without the cost.

    Source
  • Arturia's EFX is noted as a substantial alternative to Portal, providing similar granular effects at a potentially more accessible price point.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Users suggest exploring second-hand options for Output plugins on platforms like Knobcloud or KVR to potentially find more affordable deals.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Output Portal review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Output Portal delivers an impressive sonic experience, showcasing a stunning granular engine and a plethora of wicked effects that breathe life into any audio project. Its flexible envelopes and extensive modulation options allow for creative sound manipulation, making it a standout plugin. However, the clunky envelope preset handling and inadequate documentation can hinder the user experience, leaving some users frustrated. Despite these drawbacks, the plugin's aesthetic and functional brilliance ultimately shine through, making it a must-have for those seeking to explore granular synthesis.

positive

PORTAL - Granular FX Plugin by OUTPUT [REVIEW] — Pro Audio Files

theproaudiofiles.com

Output's PORTAL plugin is a stunning showcase of granular synthesis, delivering captivating soundscapes while retaining the essence of the original audio. Its intuitive interface, beautiful design, and extensive modulation options inspire creativity. However, the recognizable sonic character of granular effects may detract from more subtle listening experiences, potentially limiting its versatility for some users. Despite this, PORTAL stands out as an exciting tool for sound design, making it a worthy investment for those keen on exploring the depths of audio manipulation.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 14 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
j_o_e

My favorite efx

Love the unique formula of this plug in. Spacey sounds check. Reverb check. I use it in 90 percent of my tracks. Vocals and guitars especially

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Timbaland uses Output PORTAL

Timbaland

Singer, Rapper

Timbaland & Magoo

...
Verified via Output

Visible in this video from Timbaland's Instagram story feed. It is archived on the official Output website.

See how Andrew Huang uses Output PORTAL

Andrew Huang

Singer, Guitarist

First Of October

...
Verified via YouTube

Used for Pusher's synth solo in "Sparkle Mountain", as shown in the project breakdown at 7:43.

See how Nick Mira uses Output PORTAL

Nick Mira

Music Producer

Internet Money

...
Verified via Photo

Nick Mira can be seen using the Output PORTAL plugin in a Twitch video, where it appears at the 19-minute mark. This is supported by a screenshot from the video.

See how Slushii uses Output PORTAL

Slushii

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram Video, You can see Slushii making a track and at 0:42 you can see Output PORTAL in the plugin list.

See how Illangelo uses Output PORTAL

Illangelo

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

in this youtube video, we can see clearly that he uses Portal (on the whole video)

See how Korey Cooper uses Output PORTAL

Korey Cooper

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Skillet

...
Verified via Output

Featured in this Instagram story, which is archived on the official Output website.

See how DJ Dahi uses Output PORTAL

DJ Dahi

Music Producer

D.R.U.G.$.

...
Verified via YouTube

DJ Dahi uses Output PORTAL on many guitars and synths to achieve a delayed reflection sound design in his melodies, as mentioned at 6:43 in the Beat Breakdown of "SZA - Used ft. Don Toliver" by fliko on YouTube.

See how Jane Remover uses Output PORTAL

Jane Remover

Singer, Guitarist

Twerknation28

...
Verified via YouTube

Jane uses Portal throughout Frailty, as seen on its album breakdown stream

See how Matt Lange uses Output PORTAL

Matt Lange

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Output

Featured in this Instagram story, which is archived on the official Output website.

See how Eliminate uses Output PORTAL

Eliminate

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

At 6:05 he is seen using portal on a bass for his Tokyo Machine - Press Play remix

See how Pierce Fulton uses Output PORTAL

Pierce Fulton

Music Producer

...
Verified via reddit

Used for Keeping the Little Things, as mentioned in this August 26, 2020 Reddit reply for an AMA.

RrentTreznor: Hey Pierce. Really enjoying the new record. Especially This is What Gets Me Home. I was curious what were some of your go-to creative FX plugins that you utilized on this record?

OfficialPierceFulton: thank you! that one is one of my favorites as well :) I honestly used this Max for Live plugin LFO a lot on this album. It helped give it tons of subtle randomization and human (via computer haha) feel. I also used the new Output plugin called Portal a bit, really cool creative granular delay kinda thing.

See how Eats Everything uses Output PORTAL

Eats Everything

Music Producer, DJ

Coat of Arms

...
Verified via YouTube

At the 14:54 mark in the video titled "Eats Everything breaks down his track We Lost Ourselves and Found a Family – In The Studio", Dan Pearce, known as Eats Everything, is observed opening the Output PORTAL plugin on his screen.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Output PORTAL, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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