Rez3
Key Features
- Six independent resonator voices with master-slave detuning from one semitone to one octave apart
- Multi-LFO with six waveform shapes modulating tone, feedback, filter cutoff, and resonance
- Envelope follower for dynamic, input-responsive resonance behavior
- Per-voice pan sliders for precise stereo placement across the sound field
- Built-in keyboard and full MIDI input support for pitched resonator playing
- MIDI learn on all parameters for hardware controller integration
- 32 factory presets spanning metallic textures, pitched percussion, and harmonic drones
Description
Rez3 is a resonator effect plugin from Z3 Audiolabs that transforms incoming audio through six independent resonator voices. Originally created for the KVR Developer Challenge 2014, it turns any signal into pitched, harmonically rich textures by routing sound through tunable resonant filters with deep modulation control.
The plugin's core engine provides six resonator voices, with the first acting as a master pitch reference. The remaining five voices can be individually detuned relative to the master, with adjustable detune ranges spanning from one semitone to a full octave for everything from tight unison thickening to wide dissonant spreads.
A multi-LFO section drives much of the plugin's character, offering six waveform shapes that can modulate tone, feedback, filter cutoff, and filter resonance simultaneously. An envelope follower adds dynamic response, letting the resonance react to the amplitude of the incoming signal for expressive, performance-sensitive effects.
Each voice has its own pan slider for stereo placement, and a built-in keyboard lets you play notes directly from the interface. MIDI input from your DAW or an external controller is fully supported, and every parameter includes MIDI learn functionality for hands-on hardware mapping.
Version 1.1 introduced an on/off toggle for the multi-LFO, expanded sync modes with additional speed options, a MIDI slide feature for smooth pitch transitions between notes, and a larger GUI. The plugin ships with 32 factory presets covering metallic drones, pitched percussion effects, and evolving harmonic textures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rez3 available for macOS or just Windows?
Rez3 is a Windows-only VST plugin. There is no macOS or Linux version available, and the developer has not announced plans for a cross-platform release.
Can Rez3 be played chromatically like an instrument?
Yes. Rez3 includes a built-in keyboard for playing notes directly, and it responds to MIDI input from your DAW's piano roll or an external MIDI keyboard. This makes it function as both a resonator effect and a playable pitched instrument.
What does the MIDI slide feature in version 1.1 do?
The MIDI slide feature allows notes to glide smoothly between different pitches rather than jumping instantly. This creates portamento-style transitions that are useful for melodic resonator lines and evolving drone textures.
How does the envelope follower work in Rez3?
The envelope follower tracks the amplitude of your incoming audio signal and uses it to modulate parameters like tone, feedback, filter cutoff, and resonance. This means louder input creates more intense resonance effects, adding dynamic expression that responds to your playing or source material.
