Giada 1.6 adds elastic time-stretching, new playback mode selector, reworked sample editor

Open-source music production software Giada has received its most significant update yet with the release of version 1.6, code-named “Mavka”. The Ukrainian-inspired moniker references a figure from Slavic folklore, a forest spirit known as the “Soul of the Forest” whose ethereal nature mirrors the release's signature feature: elastic time-stretching for sample channels. Developed by Monocasual Laboratories, this free, minimalist hardcore loop machine designed for DJs, live performers, and electronic musicians now allows users to independently adjust playback speed and pitch, a longtime demand among producers who previously faced limitations when manipulating samples.

The centerpiece of the update is powered by the Rubber Band audio library, which enables the new Tape vs. Elastic playback modes in the redesigned sample editor. Users can now access a revamped Pitch/Time panel alongside a quick “Adjust…” menu for common pitch and time operations, plus a dedicated sample information window. This overhaul represents a substantial expansion of Giada's functionality beyond its traditional role as a loop machine, bringing it closer to competing commercial samplers while maintaining its characteristic lightweight footprint and multicore 32-bit floating-point audio engine.