Manifest Audio have released their most expansive update yet, introducing two brand-new Max for Live devices, five major version 2 upgrades to flagship tools, and a future-facing Ultra Bundle 2026.
Two All-New Devices Expand Generative and Rhythmic Possibilities
Conversation Engine
A highlight of the offerings, Conversation Engine introduces a dual-voice sequencing system for generative call-and-response within Ableton Live. Each voice includes independent pitch, length, velocity, density, and deviation parameters. Supporting Euclidean and count-based patterns, step-locking, and probability weighting, the device facilitates nuanced generative interplay suitable for both structured composition and exploratory sound design. Scale and key awareness and a dedicated drums mode help streamline workflow for producers seeking reactive, evolving sequences.
Rhythm Engine
Diminutive yet deceptively potent, Rhythm Engine focuses on expressive, non-linear rhythmic generation. It emphasizes continuous pattern modulation and performance over fixed looping, offering a unique approach to move beyond rigid percussion loops. Being scale-aware, it also works as a fun, lightweight, stochastic melodic arpeggiation tool if that’s more to your interest.
Diminutive yet deceptively potent, Rhythm Engine focuses on expressive, non-linear rhythmic generation. It emphasizes continuous pattern modulation and performance over fixed looping, offering a unique approach to move beyond rigid percussion loops. Being scale-aware, it also works as a fun, lightweight, stochastic melodic arpeggiation tool if that’s more to your interest.
Major Updates Build On User Favourites
Meanwhile, Manifest Audio have overhauled five of their core devices, each receiving interface refinements and major functional expansions:
- Chance Engine v2 introduces Euclidean pulse generation, new random and arpeggiator modes, offset chance for probabilistic delay, count-based triggering, and global swing. These additions significantly deepen generative sequencing capabilities.
- Octopulse v2 adds Euclidean inversions, offset divisors, per-pulse relay and transposition, global invert/direction/octave controls, and improved mono voice handling — expanding its utility for intricate rhythmic modulation.
- Pulse Engine v2 now includes pitch and velocity range modes with flip, new decay behaviours (Clip/Wrap/Fold), pulse density controls, advanced randomisation, and broader performance optimisations.
- Subtraction Engine v2 steps up to 64 steps, introduces polyrhythmic and Euclidean rate modes, count-based timing, global randomisation, per-step lock toggles, and a redesigned interface.
- X-Translate v2 brings in repeat and unique modes, velocity percentage scaling, octave transposition, hold sustain options, swing integration, and a new gain viewer — enhancing its role as a translation and transformation tool between MIDI and audio.
A Future-Proof Investment: Ultra Bundle 2026
The centrepiece of this release is the refreshed Ultra Bundle 2026, which includes every Manifest Audio device and rack released to date – with the added promise of all future releases through October 1, 2026. It’s not a subscription though: it’s a one-time payment for which you’ll automatically receive all new devices until the cutoff. While the Max Audio, Max MIDI, and Max Musician bundles have also been updated with recent devices and v2 upgrades, only Ultra includes future releases – a distinction worth noting for long-term users. The bevy of free feature updates should please all users, bundle or not.
Requires Live 12.2 Suite or higher running Max 9 or above on Mac or PC.
Follow Attack Magazine
Produce music in Ableton?
Max For Live: Chance Engine V2
Add controlled yet random fluctuations to your most important parameters.
Max for Live: Coalescence
Coalescence is a Max for Live Instrument that combines concatenative sampling together with a neural network.
Max For Live: Mouth Play
Unconventional vocal shaping with a brass model or FM oscillator source
Max For Live: NerualWaves
Synthesizer fuelled by a custom neural network, forging waves with precision
Max For Live: The Spellbook
LFO inspired by sacred geometry, weaving nature's fabric into your projects
Max For Live: Travelogue
A Max for Live MIDI device creating a unique sonic journey with joyful surprises