The Elementary Signal Engine (ESE) draws inspiration from the electronic sound studios of the 1950s, emphasizing a manual and immersive approach to composition. Unlike typical software plugins, it operates as a standalone environment that does not require external sequencers. Rooted in the concept of elementary signals introduced by Denis Gabor, the ESE explores sound at its fundamental particle level, aligning with principles found in granular synthesis and sound particle synthesis techniques.

Designed for real-time composition and performance, the ESE accommodates users with diverse artistic and technical backgrounds. Its architecture features two core components: the Particle Wave Stream (PWS) generator and the Wavehole control system. The PWS delivers multiple independent layers of particle formant synthesis, enabling pitch-synchronous sound events with adjustable durations that allow for both particle and wave-like behaviors. This system can produce a wide variety of sound textures, including those reminiscent of VoSim, FOF, and Pulsar synthesis, as well as classic wave-oriented timbres.

The Wavehole filter family operates in the time domain, synchronizing with each PWS layer's fundamental frequency to create complex temporal sound structures. Users can craft patterns manually, procedurally, or generatively, then morph them seamlessly to form dynamic and intricate sound compositions. The development of the PWS began in 2001 to address the lack of real-time particle synthesis instruments, with earlier versions demonstrated at the Modular 2002 conference. The ESE offers a unique synthesis experience by combining real-time control with a flexible interface, bridging the gap between experimental sound design and immediate musical application.