Lunacy Audio launches Nova for AI-built music plug-ins

The Verge’s Terrence O’Brien reports that Lunacy Audio has launched Nova, a platform where creators can build custom music tools with AI and sell them to other users.

Nova initially offers 10 plug-ins, including instruments for crunchy chiptunes, vintage synthesizer sounds and ambient drones. The article highlights Drift Cassette for its nostalgic ‘80s tones and Silhouettes for its science-fiction soundscapes. The interfaces use bright colors and a small number of controls, with a design reminiscent of Native Instruments’ Play series.

Instead of writing code in a text editor, creators assemble plug-ins from premade effects blocks and AI prompts. Nova instruments can run directly in a browser and do not require dedicated hardware or a digital audio workstation. Lunacy also offers a Nova host plug-in that runs inside a user’s DAW, allowing them to browse, load and quickly switch between Nova plug-ins.

Lunacy plans to release Nova Builder, which will let anyone create plug-ins or remix existing ones. Cofounder and CEO Casey Kolb described the tools as continuously evolving through sharing and modification. The Verge notes that musicians’ response to AI tools has so far been cautious or hostile. Lunacy is publishing developer diaries and seeking customer input while developing Nova.