Intellijel Multigrain 1.3: Granular Power, Now with Smarter Sample Handling

One of the headline features in Multigrain 1.3 is the ‘Collect and Save’ function, which tackles the perennial headache of sample management. Previously, samples could be scattered across global folders, making project backups and transfers a fiddly affair. Now, the module can automatically gather all samples referenced in a project and copy them into the project’s own folder, ensuring nothing goes missing when moving between systems or archiving work.

The video demonstrates three distinct methods for collecting samples: manual collection per project, a global collect-all on boot, and an auto-collect mode that triggers whenever a preset is saved. Each approach is designed to fit different workflows, from meticulous project-by-project organisation to set-and-forget automation. The result is a system that feels much closer to the sample management found in modern DAWs, but tailored for the hands-on modular environment.

With the 1.3 update, Multigrain breaks free from its previous four-second grain size limitation. Users can now select from several grain length and scaling options, with the possibility of grains stretching up to two minutes under certain conditions. This opens the door to dense, evolving soundscapes and experimental textures that were previously out of reach.

The video walks through the different grain size modes, showing how the new settings affect both short and long samples. Notably, the ability to set grain size to the full sample length—up to 32 seconds at normal pitch—means overlapping grains can create lush, immersive layers. However, the presenter notes that pushing grain sizes to the extreme will tax the module’s voice allocation, potentially cutting older grains short if the polyphony limit is reached.

Multigrain 1.3 introduces several new system settings aimed at giving users more control over their workflow. One notable addition is the ability to disable the idle timeout, so the module no longer automatically returns to the home page after 30 seconds of inactivity. This small change can make a big difference for those who like to linger on deeper menus without interruption.

Knob behaviour has also been refined, with the choice between ‘jump’ (immediate value change) and ‘pass-through’ (catch) modes. This allows users to decide whether they want instant parameter jumps or smoother, less abrupt transitions when switching pages—a thoughtful nod to both live performers and studio tweakers.

Perhaps most impactful is the new option to set custom default sound parameters for both sample-based and live sounds. By storing your preferred knob positions, quantizer settings, link states, and modulation assignments, you can ensure that every new sound starts from your ideal baseline. This is especially handy for those who rely on specific CV routings or granular behaviours in their patches.