Tilr has released TIME-12, a free time modulation plugin for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
TIME-12 is essentially a free alternative to plugins like GrossBeat and ShaperBox Time. It combines various time-based effects, such as pitch shifting, glitching, and tape-stop effects, into one intuitive package.
If you’re into real-time modulation effects that go beyond basic tremolo or delay tricks, this plugin is well worth checking out.
It’s a follow-up to Tilr’s previous GATE-12 plugin, which offered rhythmic gating with a similar visual design. The two plugins look virtually identical, except that GATE-12 was themed in orange and TIME-12 brings green highlights to the table, along with the time-bending twist.
The square GUI is centered around a large curve editor. You can draw your own modulation shapes using the paint mode, with full freedom to create or import user-defined patterns.
Behind the curve editor is a real-time visualizer that provides feedback as you tweak. I didn’t find much use for it in this plugin, but it doesn’t hurt to have it on the GUI anyway.
One of my favorite features, as in GATE-12, is the audio trigger mode. It uses the input signal’s transients to trigger the modulation envelope. This works wonders on percussive material like drums and electronic basslines.
You can also opt for traditional host sync if you prefer. The plugin handles both approaches well—in my testing, I didn’t notice any latency issues or unwanted clicks when switching patterns.
TIME-12 supports 12 pattern slots that can be triggered via MIDI notes, allowing quick access to stutter, reverse, scratch, pitch shift, and other effects. It even has a built-in sequencer for arranging and randomizing patterns, making it a powerful tool for applying glitchy textures or rhythmic variations to the source material.
Editing the curve is easy and intuitive. You can drag, scale, and skew multiple points simultaneously, with undo/redo support to streamline the workflow.
It’s clear Tilr has put serious thought into how a curve editor should work, and the result is something that doesn’t just emulate similar commercial plugins but competes with them.
I’ve tried both GrossBeat and ShaperBox Time, and TIME-12 can easily hold its own for many use cases. The fact that it’s free makes it even more impressive. It’s another hit from a developer who consistently delivers great tools without asking for a cent.
TIME-12 is available as a VST3 and AU plugin on Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can download it for free from GitHub. If you haven’t tried GATE-12 yet, that’s another excellent freebie to grab while you’re there.
You don’t need to register to download the plugin, and there’s no activation involved.
Download: TIME-12 (FREE download via GitHub)
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Last Updated on May 19, 2025 by Tomislav Zlatic.
