Raccoon Audio has made an intriguing entrance into the world of audio plugins with their debut release, OctoWah Stew, a free dual-octave enhancer paired with a wah effect. This plugin doesn’t just aim to enhance your sound; it also introduces you to the whimsical antics of a mischievous raccoon.
As a fledgling developer, Raccoon Audio’s mission is to bring an extra layer of excitement to your audio projects.
They describe OctoWah Stew as the “perfect blend of minimalist design and sonic excellence.” However, the term “minimalist” might seem a bit ironic when see a retro-style graphic featuring a character named Kyle dangling precariously over a bubbling cauldron, courtesy of a playful raccoon.
While the video-game-inspired imagery might seem like a quirky addition, it serves a purpose: providing a visual cue for the intensity of the effect. When Kyle’s peril is at its peak, you know the effect is maxed out. It’s a fun and creative touch that adds personality without interfering with functionality. If you’re a fan of retro gaming, you’ll likely appreciate the nostalgic vibe.
Beneath its playful visuals, OctoWah Stew delivers on its promise of straightforward yet powerful controls. The Octave knob is your gateway to shaping the tone. It allows you to blend a single octave with a subtle overdrive or dive deeper into a second, richer octave for a fuller sound. This knob also amusingly dictates Kyle’s proximity to the stew pot.
The Tilt knob lets you fine-tune the tonal balance, adding either low-end warmth or high-end brightness. Think of it as seasoning the stew with bass or treble, depending on your taste. This intuitive approach makes it easy to achieve the desired sonic texture.
OctoWah Stew’s octave effect is a favorite among guitarists and synthesists who seek to layer harmonics without losing the essence of their original tone. But it doesn’t stop there; the plugin incorporates a wah effect, elevating it beyond conventional octave pedals. With three levels of intensity, the wah effect becomes increasingly prominent as you crank up the Octave knob, creating a unique blend of harmonic richness and dynamic movement.
This debut offering from Raccoon Audio isn’t just about sonic quality; it’s a fun and engaging plugin that leaves you curious about what’s next. As for Kyle, his fate hangs in the balance—and in the hands of your sound design choices.
OctoWah Stew is available in AU and VST3 formats, compatible with macOS (10.13 and above) and Windows (7 and above).
Download: OctoWah Stew (FREE)
