KiraStudio

KiraStudio is a digital audio workstation created by KiraSpace. The software allows music composition using FM synthesis, wavetable, samples, and classic sound chip emulation. The application runs on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The sound engine operates in real-time with low latency and supports full parametric automation. The environment is aimed at video game music composers and producers who require detailed control over generators and effects.

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• Pattern-based multipitch system. The sequencer organizes the composition into repeatable patterns assigned to independent tracks. Each pattern contains notes and automation events. Patterns can be duplicated, edited, and chained to build complex arrangements without manually duplicating data. The sequencer view displays the temporal arrangement of all project elements.
• Polyphonic piano roll. The note editor shows the duration, position, velocity, and panning of each note. Notes are inserted, moved, and resized through direct interaction. The rhythmic grid is configurable. The piano roll supports the display of automation curves overlaid on the notes.
• Mixer with routing. The mixer groups channels and tracks. Each channel has volume, pan, mute, and solo controls. Effect chains are inserted on sends or individual channels. Routing allows directing the output of one channel to another or to the master bus.
• Instrument builder via generators. Instruments are built by assembling generator modules in series or parallel. Each generator produces or processes audio. The combination of oscillators, FM operators, samples, and wavetables defines the timbre. The user connects generators freely without fixed topology restrictions.
• Curve and automation editors. Three types of editors control parametric variation: ADSR envelope, custom curve (LFO), and step sequence. Curve points are inserted and moved. Interpolation between points is linear or stepped. The curve scale and speed respond to key velocity and MIDI aftertouch.
• FM synthesis with 2, 3, and 4 operators. The FM generator implements configurable algorithms with independent operators. Each operator adjusts frequency, modulation index, gain, and envelope. Operators are connected in series, parallel, or feedback configurations. FM synthesis generates metallic timbres, complex harmonics, and percussive foundations.
• Wavetable editor. The user defines waveforms through direct drawing or preset selection. The table can contain multiple cycles. The oscillator scans the table sequentially. The transition between waves can be fixed or modulated. The editor supports sample import for conversion to a wavetable.
• PCM sampler with loop editing. The sampler assigns audio files to keys. The sample editor adjusts start point, end point, loop, and stitch. The stitch allows joining two regions of the sample to extend playback. The sampler plays the sample with pitch adjusted by the MIDI note.
• ByteBeat interpreter (8-bit calculator). The generator evaluates mathematical equations in real-time to produce audio. The user writes expressions in ByteBeat syntax. The output behaves as a formula-driven oscillator. This method generates chaotic textures, glitch, and raw digital sound.
• SoundFont SF2 and SF3 loading. The loader interprets SoundFont banks. The instruments and presets contained in the file are available in the selector. SF3 incorporates OGG compression for size reduction. The implementation supports multiple simultaneous presets. The documentation details limitations in complex modulators and articulations.
• YM2413, YM2612, YM3812, YMF262, YM2149, YM2610 emulation. The program emulates the synthesizer behavior of these FM and PSG chips. The emulation does not aim for exact cycle accuracy but for sonic fidelity with full polyphony and unlimited ROM storage. The chip's register parameters are exposed for editing.
• Famicom/NES 2A03 emulation and expansions. The generator emulates the pulse, triangle, noise, and DPCM channels of the 2A03. The VRC6, VRC7, FDS, MMC5, N163, and Sunsoft 5B expansions are implemented. Each emulated channel features additional polyphony not present in the original hardware. Deviations from precise emulation are documented.
• GameBoy emulation. The generator emulates the pulse, wave, and noise channels of the GameBoy sound processor. Frequency sweep and envelope are editable. The implementation includes quality-of-life improvements such as extended polyphony and linear frequency response.
• Active filters and equalizer. Filter effects include low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and notch. Filters have adjustable cutoff frequency and resonance. The three-band parametric equalizer modifies the spectral content. The filter response is stable across the entire audible band.
• Time and dynamic effects. The reverb module simulates rooms using feedback delay lines. The chorus slightly modulates the signal to create fullness. The stereo delay offers independent times per channel with cross feedback. The bit crusher reduces bit depth and sample rate.
• MIDI import and export. The program reads MIDI files type 0 and 1. MIDI tracks are converted to native tracks and patterns. Export generates standard MIDI files with assigned channels. Continuous control messages are converted to automation curves.
• WAV and OGG export. The full mix or individual tracks are exported to uncompressed WAV or compressed OGG Vorbis format. The sample rate is configurable. Export respects real-time automation and mixing.
• Import of WAV, DMC, and ADPCM-A ROM samples. The importer recognizes standard PCM formats and formats specific to console ROMs. Imported samples are assigned to the sampler or the wavetable editor. Conversion maintains the original frequency or resamples it.

The audio engine uses native libraries for each operating system. The program was originally conceived for mobile devices as a portable composition tool, later expanded to desktop. The repository and documentation are located at kirastudio.org.

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