Spectral Wobbler is a free Max for Live plugin released by developer Dystopian Waves that is compatible with Ableton Live Suite 11 and 12 (macOS and Windows).
Max for Live is Ableton’s visual programming environment, allowing users to extend the functionality of Ableton Live. With Max for Live, users can create custom instruments and audio/MIDI effects.
Spectral Wobbler is a frequency domain modulation effect that you can use to add movement to any audio source, from subtle shimmer to extreme warping.
The plugin features a straightforward and intuitive interface with visual feedback shown on the top half of the GUI, along with adjustable parameters on the bottom.
Visual feedback comes in the form of a nice spectrum display of the source audio, with the option to switch to a sonogram view.
There are only a few parameters to tackle: Rate, Depth, Bins, Region, Low/High (frequency cutoff points).
Spectral Wobbler utilises an LFO to offset each bin’s source (a specific range of frequencies within the spectrum), rather than taking a more standard or rigid approach to frequency shifting.
The Rate and Depth controls adjust the speed and intensity of the LFO. If you keep both parameters at lower settings, you can get close to typical chorus/vibrato effects, adding texture without going too crazy.
However, if you want to venture closer to crazy, the Bins parameter is a good place to start. The higher you set this parameter, the further the LFO can shift, producing far more aggressive detuning effects.
One of the most appealing aspects of Spectral Wobbler is the ability to target the effect with more precision than more standard modulation might allow. The Region icon (All/Low/Mid/High) allows you to set the frequency region where the effect is applied.
You can then adjust the Low and High frequency cutoff points.
The flexibility within a simple plugin makes Spectral Wobbler a handy tool for quick, fun, yet unpredictable sound design.
If you’re not an Ableton user, but want to introduce some chaos to your sound, check out DigiDestroy by HOFA-Plugins, a free bitcrusher for macOS and Windows.
Download: Spectral Wobbler (FREE – requires Ableton Live Suite 11 or 12)
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Last Updated on August 7, 2025 by Tomislav Zlatic.
