Gatekeeper

Gatekeeper is a volume modulation plugin developed by Polyverse in collaboration with Infected Mushroom that prioritizes sample-accurate control over rhythmic gating and envelope sequencing. At its core, the tool functions as a sophisticated gate, LFO, envelope generator, and step sequencer rolled into a single interface, making it particularly valuable for producers seeking granular dynamic control without introducing artifacts.

The plugin's technical foundation rests on two key capabilities: precise sample-fast transitions and a variable smoothing algorithm designed to eliminate clicks and pops that typically plague aggressive gating. This combination allows for both punchy, rhythmic gating effects and smooth modulation curves, a balance that separates Gatekeeper from more straightforward gate plugins. The envelope system supports up to eight independent, fully customizable MIDI-triggered envelopes with a node limit of 1,024, enabling sequences extending beyond 20 hours - though practical applications rarely demand such extremes.

Gatekeeper's editing interface uses curve brushes and 31 envelope brush types to streamline the design process, moving beyond tedious point-by-point automation. Additional features include boost and clip functions for enhanced punch, panning tools, tempo-mapped looping, and CV output for modular hardware integration. The recent addition of MIDI CC transmission capability expands its utility as a control source for other plugins.

The plugin suits producers working across electronic music, hip-hop, and experimental genres where rhythmic volume manipulation is central to aesthetic identity. While competition exists from conventional gate and envelope plugins, Gatekeeper's flexibility and Infected Mushroom's documented use of these techniques position it as a specialized tool for sophisticated modulation rather than a universal solution.