GrainHeads 3.0 — sequenceable granular sampler/synthesizer for iOS and macOS
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SoftwareApril 28, 20264 min read

GrainHeads 3.0: Andrei Nevar's iOS Granular Sampler Levels Up With Eight Playheads and a New UI

GrainHeads 3.0 brings a completely redesigned UI, eight playheads, Lo-Fi effects, and deeper sequencing to Andrei Nevar's free granular sampler for iOS and macOS.

Andrei Nevar released GrainHeads 3.0 on April 26, 2026. This update adds eight independent playheads, a redesigned user interface, and expanded modulation options to the granular sampler. Existing users receive it as a free upgrade.

The app offers a capable granular tool on mobile devices. It stands up well against some desktop options while remaining free to start.

What is GrainHeads?

GrainHeads is a sequenceable granular sampler and synthesizer. It works as a standalone app on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. You can also load it as an AUv3 instrument or AUFX audio effect in compatible DAWs.

The app loads samples and spreads independent playheads across them. This creates evolving textures, atmospheres, and rhythmic patterns. The free version includes the core engine. A one-time $11.99 Pro upgrade adds external sample loading and microphone recording.

What's new in version 3.0

Version 3.0 delivers the largest set of changes yet. The update includes these main additions:

  • Completely new UI with customizable colors per section and improved macOS scaling
  • Lo-Fi effect in the FX chain
  • Macros controlled via X/Y pads
  • Modulation summing to combine multiple sources
  • Sequencer modulation lanes for any parameter
  • Decoupled pitch from gate sequencing
  • Two new play modes: Scan and Ricochet
  • Bezier envelopes on modulation sources
  • Filter envelope in the sequencer
  • Dice randomization for individual sections
  • Redesigned server-loaded preset browser

The eight-playhead engine

The heart of GrainHeads lies in its multi-playhead system. You can use up to eight independent granular playheads across four sample slots. Each playhead offers its own controls:

  • Grain position, scatter, size, and rate
  • Grain chance for probability
  • Pitch with scale quantization
  • Stereo pan with random variation
  • Backward grain option
  • Drawable Bezier-curve grain envelopes
  • Per-head Moog-style ladder filter with overdrive

This structure supports dense layers from one sample. It also allows splitting playheads across multiple sources for complex results.

Modulation that runs deep

GrainHeads provides strong modulation routing. The system includes:

  • 8 multi-waveform LFOs with LFO-on-LFO capability
  • 2 Bezier envelopes for custom shapes
  • Summing modulation matrix
  • 4 macro axes on X/Y pads
  • 3-finger 2D touchpad for six parameters at once

Nearly every parameter responds to modulation. This includes effects send levels.

Polyrhythmic sequencer with parameter locks

The sequencer draws from step-sequencing traditions. Features include:

  • Polyrhythmic clock divisions with independent lengths
  • Parameter locks per step
  • Modulation lanes for any synth parameter
  • Filter envelope with modulatable amount
  • Decoupled pitch and gate lanes

The new dice randomization helps explore variations quickly without full resets.

The effects section routes flexibly and now adds a Lo-Fi processor. Other processors include syncable delay, reverb with multimode filtering, a filter, and a limiter. All parameters accept modulation.

GrainHeads loads as an AUv3 instrument or AUFX effect in apps such as Logic Pro, AUM, Cubasis, Loopy Pro, and GarageBand. You can drag samples directly into slots. Ableton Link syncs the sequencer with other devices.

Here's a recent demo of the granular engine in action:

Where it shines

GrainHeads fits these production areas:

  • Ambient and cinematic textures from single-sample pads
  • Sound design for film and games, including beds, risers, and drones
  • Experimental electronic music with generative sequences
  • Lo-fi and chillhop sounds using the new Lo-Fi effect
  • Live performance via multi-touch controls
  • Mobile sketching on iPhone or iPad

The polyrhythmic sequencing and per-playhead modulation support patches that evolve naturally.

How it compares

GrainHeads runs on phones and tablets while offering features found in desktop tools like Output Portal, Native Instruments Form, and Ableton's Granulator. It stands out with eight independent playheads, full AUv3 and AUFX support, a free core app with one-time Pro upgrade, and deep sequencer integration.

Pricing and availability

  • Free download with full granular engine
  • $11.99 one-time Pro upgrade for external samples and mic recording
  • Existing users: free upgrade to 3.0
  • Required: iOS 17.6+, iPadOS 17.6+, or macOS 14.6+ (Apple Silicon)

Get it

Download GrainHeads 3.0 from the App Store or visit the official GrainHeads site for full details and demo audio.

Looking for more iOS music production tools? Check out our other coverage of mobile DAWs, AUv3 plugins, and granular synths on the Dubspot blog.

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