miletbaker

To note the method I use is a combination of the @gdenby suggestion above (thanks) to create a diffuse raster mask, then use this (inverted) to mask a solid colour shape. @iaa you can then get the affect you desire, It's a bit of a pain but okay if you don't have too many gradients to like this to create.

+1 I would also love the ability to set the blend mode to dissolve, the work arounds are a real time consuming headache and not 100% the same.

It would be excellent to have plugin support and would allow for the community to add features. Astute Graphics for example make amazing plugin for illustrator and to have them on board with this would also be brilliant.