Audiomodern Riffer 4 is the new version of the company’s creative MIDI sequencer. The tool makes no sound of its own: it generates MIDI patterns you route to the instrument of your choice, hardware or software. Until now Riffer ran on a single generation algorithm; this fourth version offers five, and that is the whole point of the update.
Five engines, five ways into a riff
Riffer 4 replaces the single algorithm with five distinct generation engines, each tuned toward a specific musical result: Pulse, Hook Riffs, Guitar Hybrid, Lead Arps and Bass Hooks. The idea is to offer several ways into an idea rather than one logic of chance: you do not generate a bassline the way you generate a lead arpeggio. For anyone stuck on the blank page, having several specialized engines clearly speeds up the hunt for a starting point.
Control stays in your hands
Riffer is not a black box. You first pick a key and scale, then set the range, density, rhythmic placement and the “feel” of the pattern. Nothing then stops you from editing the result note by note or exploring variations from a base you like. It is that back-and-forth between automatic generation and manual tweaking that sets the tool apart from a plain arpeggiator or a fixed generator — a balance found in other writing aids such as zplane TONIC 2, and one that extends the logic of generative brains like Squarp Core without the rigidity.
MIDI everywhere, from plug-in to iPad
As a MIDI generator, Riffer 4 sits before the instrument: you route its notes to a synth, a sampler or an external machine. It comes as VST3, AU, AAX and a standalone app; an iPad version exists, sold separately. That ubiquity fits its role: an idea engine that must be able to feed any sound source in your setup.
Price and availability
Riffer 4 shipped in early October 2026, at a launch price of around $55 (€49) versus $79 (€69) regular. Owners of an earlier Riffer version can upgrade for about €29. Details are on the Audiomodern site.
My take
Going from one algorithm to five specialized engines acknowledges that you do not generate a bass the way you generate a lead — and that is the right instinct. A MIDI generator earns its place by pulling you out of the rut without churning out the generic: engines aimed at bass, hook or arpeggio do just that. The real test will remain the fine editing, the ability to take back control of what the machine proposes. At this price, to unstick a stalling session, it is an idea net that pays off fast.
Frequently asked questions
Does Riffer 4 produce sound?
No. Riffer 4 generates MIDI only. You route its patterns to a software or hardware instrument, which produces the sound.
What is the big change over previous versions?
The move from a single generation algorithm to five distinct engines — Pulse, Hook Riffs, Guitar Hybrid, Lead Arps and Bass Hooks — each aimed at a type of musical result.
Can you edit what Riffer generates?
Yes. After choosing key, scale, range, density and feel, you can edit the pattern note by note and explore variations from an existing base.
Which formats is Riffer 4 available in?
As VST3, AU, AAX and a standalone app. An iPad version also exists, sold separately.
Is there an upgrade for existing users?
Yes, owners of an earlier Riffer version can move to Riffer 4 at a reduced price, around €29.
