Filter+ - Bitwig Audio FX Guide

Discover why Filter+ is one of the most versatile and essential audio effects in Bitwig Studio. In this guide, we dive deep into its semi-modular architecture, exploring how the combination of customizable distortion and flexible filter shapes can transform your sound. We’ll cover everything from the basic signal flow to advanced "under-the-hood" tips, including audio-rate modulation, voice stacking, and a creative walkthrough on how to turn this audio effect into a fully playable polyphonic synthesizer. Whether you're looking for subtle warmth or experimental sound design, Filter+ is a powerhouse you need to master. Video transcribed, summarized and Q&A on my Blog (no ads): https://polarity.me/posts/bitwig-guides/2026-01-22-filter-modular-filter-and-distortion-fx/ 0:00 – Why Filter+ is a must-use device 0:10 – Understanding the signal flow (Distortion - Filter) 0:34 – Exploring Distortion types & Custom Transfer Curves 1:41 – Anti-aliasing and Bipolar settings 1:50 – Filter controls: Drive, LFO, and Cutoff 3:00 – Audio Rate Modulation (FM-style effects) 4:51 – Native Modulators vs. the Modulator Pane 5:56 – Swapping Filter Models (SVF, Ladder, Sallen-Key, etc.) 6:51 – Accessing the Grid View for hidden parameters 8:12 – Converting Filter+ to a full FX Grid 9:00 – Inspector Settings: Polyphony, Voices, and Note Through 11:54 – Using Pre-FX and Post-FX containers 14:25 – Creative Trick: Building a Resonator with Voice Stacking 17:40 – Creative Trick: Turning Filter+ into a Polyphonic Synthesizer 21:06 – Filter+ vs. Sweep: Which one to choose? 21:56 – Final thoughts and wrap-up