STRAYLIGHT by Native Instruments granular Kontakt instrument interface

STRAYLIGHT: Granular Cinematic Sound Design Instrument by Native Instruments

STRAYLIGHT is a granular-based sound design instrument from Native Instruments that runs inside Kontakt. It combines grain and sample playback modules with captured sound sources and an X-Y modulation matrix for creating cinematic soundscapes, transitions and ambient tones.

REQUIRESKontaktHost player sold separately

AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique

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01Overview

STRAYLIGHT is built around granular synthesis, a method that breaks sounds into tiny grains and rearranges them in real time. Native Instruments positions it for sound designers and composers working in film, TV and games. The developer describes it as suited to styles ranging from post-apocalyptic sci-fi to gritty thrillers. Because the performance controls are designed to be played live, it can be shaped directly against picture or during a session rather than only programmed in advance.

Best for

Cinematic soundscapes
Film and TV transitions
Game ambient tones
Sci-fi sound design
Thriller tension beds
Granular sample processing

Developer: Native Instruments
Category: Kontakt Instruments
Requires: Kontakt
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Unique cinematic granular timbres
Granular and sample playback modules working together
Performance-based X-Y modulation matrix
Tailored modulation with precise control of intensity and timing
Drag and drop support for your own samples
Captured sound sources and built-in effects
Designed for direct-to-picture sound design

03In depth

Granular timbres and sound character

STRAYLIGHT combines specialized grain and sample playback modules with a set of carefully captured sound sources and effects. The result is a collection of granular timbres aimed at cinematic textures, atmospheres and transitions.

The instrument is meant for building sounds from the ground up, so the sources and processing can be combined into new textures rather than played back as fixed loops.

Modulation and custom sample workflow

A performance-based X-Y modulation matrix lets you control the intensity and timing of modulation with precision. This makes it possible to move between textures while playing, which suits scoring and live sound design.

You can also drag and drop your own samples into the instrument, so you can create sounds that are specific to your own material rather than relying only on the included sources.

04Specs