Chiptuned

A retro-inspired, browser-based 8-bit step sequencer and DAW, built with vanilla JavaScript and the Web Audio API.

Overview

Chiptuned is a client-side web application that lets you compose authentic 8-bit music directly in your browser. Chiptuned offers a modern 8-bit chiptune workflow — no downloads, plugins, or accounts required.

Originally developed as an in-house tool for designing retro soundtracks and sound effects for indie video game projects, Chiptuned has been refined into a polished public tool so anyone can create 8-bit chiptune sounds for their games, videos, or creative projects.

Built entirely in vanilla JavaScript with the Web Audio API, Chiptuned is fast, lightweight, and runs fully in your browser.

About the Project

This app began as a personal tool for designing game music and retro sound effects during the development of several indie game prototypes.

After refining the workflow for internal use, I realized this tool could help other musicians, game developers, and retro music enthusiasts — so I polished the UI, added export support, and released it as a free web app for everyone.

Live Demo

Chiptuned Link

Issues

List of Known Issues/Bugs
Found a bug Report it here

Features

• Multi-layer step sequencer with pattern editing
• Built-in audio engine with:
  • Square, Sine, Sawtooth, and Triangle waveforms
  • A library of pre-made instruments and SFX
  • ADSR envelopes
  • Bitcrusher, reverb, delay, and panning
  • LFO modulation
  • Per-channel effect chains
• Bus mixer for individual track control
• Full undo/redo system
• Save/load as .cht project files
• Customizable keyboard shortcuts
• Export to .wav and .mp3
• Theme switching (planned)

Getting Started

1. Add a track: Click the "Add Track" button to create a new layer.
2. Select a sound: Choose a waveform, instrument, or SFX from the "Sounds" panel.
3. Draw notes: Use the "Draw" tool to add notes to the sequencer grid.
4. Add effects: Open the effects window from the bus mixer to add and tweak effects.
5. Play your creation: Use the play/pause button or the spacebar to listen to your track.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Chiptuned features customizable keyboard shortcuts for a faster workflow. You can view and edit the keybinds in the settings menu.

Default Shortcuts:

Action	Windows/Linux	macOS
File
Open Project	Ctrl + O	Cmd + O
Save Project	Ctrl + S	Cmd + S
New Project	Ctrl + P	Cmd + P
Edit
Undo	Ctrl + Z	Cmd + Z
Redo	Ctrl + Shift + Z	Cmd + Shift + Z
Cut	Ctrl + X	Cmd + X
Copy	Ctrl + C	Cmd + C
Paste	Ctrl + V	Cmd + V
Select All	Ctrl + A	Cmd + A
Tools
Draw Tool	D	D
Splice Tool	X	X
Erase Tool	E	E
Select Tool	S	S
Grab Tool	G	G
Playback
Play/Pause	Space	Space

Save, Load & Export

• Save Project: Saves your work as a .cht file.
• Load Project: Load a .cht file from your computer to restore your session.
• Export Audio: Render your composition to .wav or .mp3 entirely in the browser.
• Autosave: Your session is automatically saved to your browser's local storage every 30 seconds from last autosave action.