ben m
Joined: 15 Sep 2002
Posts: 337
Location: UK |
| Week 9 - Sequencers |
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01-What is a MIDI sequencer?
02-What are the advantages of hardware sequencers?
03-What are the advantages of software sequencers?
04-What is a piano roll editor?
05-What is a 'drum map'?
06-What is usually seen in the 'arrange' window?
07-What are Tempo/Meter maps?
08-What is the purpose of quantizing?
09-What is Groove Quantizing and how does it work?
10-Explain Note On quantizing.
11-Explain Over Quantizing.
12-Explain Iterative Quantizing.
13-What do quantize values such as 4,32,16T etc represent?
14-What is the score editor and how does it display musical information?
15-How, and using what protocol, may a Sequencer be synchronised to a multitrack recorder?
16-If you change the tempo of the song, what will happen to (a) the MIDI parts? (b) the Audio parts?
17-How does the application Recycle allow MIDI to control Audio parts?
18-What is OMS?
19-How does OMS simplify MIDI studio setups?
20-What's the difference between type 0 & 1 MIDI sequences?
21-Why are there 'virtual' MIDI ports available (i.e. Hubis Loopback)?
22-What is the 'rewire' protocol?
23-What is the rocket networks protocol and how does it work?
24-What are step sequencers?
25-Why are step sequencers usually more suitable for percussion & drum parts?
26-Why are click tracks important functions in MIDI/Audio sequencers?
27-Why do many sequencers metronomes allow either Audio or MIDI clicks?
28-How is MIDI data such as modulation and pan usually displayed in part editors?
29-How many times is master clock transmitted per quarter note?
30-What are the functions of the master and slave in any synchronisation situation?
31-What timing division does SPP (song position pointers) work on?
32-What is MIDI Sync mode and what synchronisation protocols does it accept?
33-What is the primary difference between MIDI Time Code and MIDI Clock, and why is MTC more accurate?
34-Define the basics of SMPTE?
35-What similiarities are there between SMPTE and MTC?
36-How does FSK work?
37-Does standard-FSK synchronisation give any indication of song position?
38-What improvements does Smart-FSK offer over standard FSK?
39-If using FSK with analogue tape, why must the speed of the tape not change after recording the FSK timing information?
40-What is the 'tempo master' and what is the 'transport master' within a MIDI synchronised setup?
41-What problems may arise from extensive use of controller data within a MIDI piece?
42-Name 2 different connection protocols for MIDI interfaces?
43-Can tempo changes and time signature changes be made during a song within a sequencer?
44-What considerations must be made when using a software sequencer as part of a live show?
45-Regarding audio sequencers and plug-ins;
a) What is the difference between a native plug-in and one that requires DSP?
b) What does DSP stand for? |
Mon Oct 24, 2005 3:00 pm |
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tobyh1000
Joined: 10 Jul 2005
Posts: 13
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| week 9 - sequencers |
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Week 9 – Sequencers
01-What is a MIDI sequencer?
A MIDI sequencer is a device that can record, edit and play several MIDI messages. With the ability to actually sequence audio inputs into different tracks.
02-What are the advantages of hardware sequencers?
Advantages of hardware sequencers are as follows – portable, works independently without need of computer and cheap to purchase.
03-What are the advantages of software sequencers?
Advantages of software sequencers are as follows – Easy-to-use graphical interface, which also makes audio editing easier. More powerful in terms of effects in comparison for what you get for your money.
04-What is a piano roll editor?
A piano roll editor is a program that allows graphical representation of a keyboard where notes can sounded by clicking the mouse or by using a keyboard connected to a computer through midi on the left side of the monitor output. On the right side are the resulting sounds shown in graphical form of their duration next to their corresponding notes, where you are able to edit the sounds created.
05-What is a 'drum map'?
A drum map allows editing of drum patterns in a very similar way to the piano roll editor. Where the drum map will be a graphical representation of the various types of drum sounds inputted which can then be edited.
06-What is usually seen in the 'arrange' window?
Any inputted audio, midi information or automation data is seen in the ‘arrange’ window by use of graphics.
07-What are Tempo/Meter maps?
Tempo/meter maps show all the tempo information and are used through the sequencer when needed to alter the tempo of a song.
08-What is the purpose of quantizing?
The purpose of quantizing is to correct any minor mistakes created by the instrument performer by auto snapping the notes back in time when out.
09-What is Groove Quantizing and how does it work?
Groove quantizing is used to change the style or ‘feel’ of the song by changing the tempo or making off beat notes for example.
10-Explain Note On quantizing
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Note On quantizing only changes the start of a note by moving the note as close to the quantize value (which is set separately) as possible.
11-Explain Over Quantizing.
Over quantizing moves the note as close to the quantize value as possible like Note On quantizing, but keeps chords together instead of moving notes separately and not noting the musical input of a chord.
12-Explain Iterative Quantizing.
Iterative quantizing moves the notes to a quantize level specified by the user to allow a more ‘real’ feel to the music.
13-What do quantize values such as 4,32,16T etc represent?
Those quantize values represent where notes will occur is terms of the length of notes. So 4 would be a ¼ of a beat.
14-What is the score editor and how does it display musical information?
A score editor is a program that displays music through use of proper notation by displaying the stave and notes graphically.
15-How, and using what protocol, may a Sequencer be synchronised to a multitrack recorder?
A sequencer may be synchronized to a multi track recorder by connecting through the midi port and with the protocol of midi time code - MTC
16-If you change the tempo of the song, what will happen to (a) the MIDI parts? (b) the Audio parts?
If you change the tempo in a song –
(a)in the MIDI part, the song will speed up or slow down and the MIDI instruments will change with the tempo and the pitch will not differ.
(b)in the audio part, the song will speed up or slow down and although the pitch will not differ either, the audio parts will become out of sync with the MIDI parts as they will keep their own tempo.
17-How does the application Recycle allow MIDI to control Audio parts?
Recycle allows MIDI to control audio parts by cutting up and storing sections of them, which is then able to be played back at varying speeds with MIDI.
18-What is OMS?
OMS (Open Music System) is software that allows the use of MIDI with various systems by providing a global driver system to connect up MIDI devices with other systems.
19-How does OMS simplify MIDI studio setups?
OMS simplifies MIDI studio setup by pre-loading all connected MIDI systems on startup and allows easy communication through sequencers by creating one general MIDI interface.
20-What's the difference between type 0 & 1 MIDI sequences?
The difference is that with type 0 MIDI sequences all the information is saved as one track, though the different track information within is not lost, and type 1 MIDI sequencers save each track separately.
21-Why are there 'virtual' MIDI ports available (i.e. Hubis Loopback)?
There are ‘virtual’ MIDI ports available as they are needed to link up different MIDI based programs up together through computer software to allow transference of MIDI information.
22-What is the 'rewire' protocol?
Rewire allow the interconnection of different audio or MIDI applications. When two systems each have the rewire protocol, communication is immediate and audio routing is easy.
23-What is the rocket networks protocol and how does it work?
The rocket network protocol allows instant multi-user connection through audio systems over the internet.
24-What are step sequencers?
Step sequencers are MIDI input devices that allow a step at a time, i.e. one MIDI instruction is inputted one after the other.
25-Why are step sequencers usually more suitable for percussion & drum parts?
Step sequencers are usually more suitable for percussion parts because they are good for creating loops, and therefore, drum loops.
26-Why are click tracks important functions in MIDI/Audio sequencers?
Click tracks, or metronomes, are important functions in sequencers as they help musicians keep their timing during recording.
27-Why do many sequencers metronomes allow either Audio or MIDI clicks?
Many sequencers allow either audio or midi clicks to give the musician recording a track an option over what type of click is used and it is generally more flexible for any user.
28-How is MIDI data such as modulation and pan usually displayed in part editors?
Automation is usually displayed graphically underneath the part editor display as horizontal lines.
29-How many times is master clock transmitted per quarter note?
The master clock is transmitted 24 times per quarter note.
30-What are the functions of the master and slave in any synchronisation situation?
The functions of the master are to control any slaves connected to it by sending information to them. The slave copies the information sent from the master and follows any instructions from the master.
31-What timing division does SPP (song position pointers) work on?
The timing division that SPP works on is the 16th note.
32-What is MIDI Sync mode and what synchronisation protocols does it accept?
MIDI sync mode is the option given to the slave for synchronizing to its master, its accepts MMIDI clock and MTC protocols.
33-What is the primary difference between MIDI Time Code and MIDI Clock, and why is MTC more accurate?
The primary differecnce between the MIDI clock and MTC is that a MIDI clock keeps time over MIDI tempos and notes, where as MTC deals with actual time (hours, minutes and seconds). MTC is more accurate for this reason
34-Define the basics of SMPTE?
The basics of SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers) work around using real time code – (hours, minutes, seconds) – it is used to synchronise video and audio together and is very exact.
35-What similiarities are there between SMPTE and MTC?
The similarities between SMPTE and MTC are they both work on real absolute time code and use the same frame rates.
36-How does FSK work?
FSK (Frequency Shift Key) works by sending pulse signals in short bursts of frequencies between 1.5khz and 2.5khz to keep tempo on a song. It is only used through a MIDI clock signals.
37-Does standard-FSK synchronisation give any indication of song position?
No, FSK sunchronisation does not give any indication of song position.
38-What improvements does Smart-FSK offer over standard FSK?
Smart FSK offers improvements over standard FSK such as the ability to indicate song position.
39-If using FSK with analogue tape, why must the speed of the tape not change after recording the FSK timing information?
If the speed changes when recording using FSK the pitch will alter and then the timing will go out of sync.
40-What is the 'tempo master' and what is the 'transport master' within a MIDI synchronised setup?
A tempo master controls the tempo speed through the MIDI clock of the slave devices and the transport master allows playback of the slave devices.
41-What problems may arise from extensive use of controller data within a MIDI piece?
Problems that may arise from exclusive use of controller data within a MIDI piece are possible latency or delay.
42-Name 2 different connection protocols for MIDI interfaces?
Two different connection protocols for MIDI interfaces are USB or a 5 pin DIN plug.
43-Can tempo changes and time signature changes be made during a song within a sequencer?
Yes, tempo and time changes can be made during a song within a sequencer.
44-What considerations must be made when using a software sequencer as part of a live show?
Considerations that must be made are; making sure that computer is very high spec. With lots of RAM and has a fast processor speed so it will not crash in the middle of a live set.
45-Regarding audio sequencers and plug-ins;
a) What is the difference between a native plug-in and one that requires DSP?
The difference between a native plug-in and one that requires DSP is that a native plug-in is usually created to run by use of the computer processor alone and one that requires DSP must need a lot more processing power, due to the possible large amount of audio data being transmitted.
b) What does DSP stand for?
DSP stands for Digital Signal Processing. |
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Sat Oct 29, 2005 3:15 pm |
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AndyBarber
Joined: 09 Sep 2005
Posts: 18
Location: North Wales |
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Posted: Tue Oct 25, 2005 1:00 am Post subject: Week 9 - Sequencers
ANDY BARBER
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01-What is a MIDI sequencer?
A hardware device or software application that allows the composition, editing and playback of MIDI sound sequences.
Capable of storing a number of MIDI tracks of MIDI information
Most major packages read and write standard MIDI files
Most sequencers handle MIDI and Audio
02-What are the advantages of hardware sequencers?
Portability and price (compared to cost of PC, interface and software)
Specially built for its job
Disadvantage of small screen size for editing
03-What are the advantages of software sequencers?
Offer the greatest variety of features.
Some can print musical scores from recordings
Large GUI for editing.
Can have DSP chip for digital calculations
For portable situations laptops can be used.
04-What is a piano roll editor?
Piano roll editor/interface allows any MIDI track or part to be viewed and edited on a graphical display. User can enter or edit notes manually. (allows user to write music without the knowledge of musical notation)
There is a vertical representation of a piano keyboard on the left hand side of the editor. Notes are drawn graphically onto piano roll which can have any length you want
05-What is a 'drum map'?
Building a drum map allows user to play one specific drum sample per key. Different drum samples are mapped to separate keys along the keyboard.
06-What is usually seen in the 'arrange' window?
Arrange window handles basic recording and shows the current Track List, Part Display and transport bar.
07-What are Tempo/Meter maps?
Used to set the meter (time signature) and tempo of measures when using a MIDI clock. Tempo map needs to be set at start of a song. Default values are a meter of 4/4 with tempo of 120bpm.
08-What is the purpose of quantizing?
Automatically corrects timing of a MIDI notes recorded into a time grid.
Assumes every track written should use perfect timing, not always desired
09-What is Groove Quantizing and how does it work?
Overly quantized music can sound mechanical.
It was noted that some musicians repeatably play certain notes off-time. This timing trait (or groove) can be automatically applied to a MIDI recording, shaping and enhancing the timing of a song. Used to impose feel of music not to correct mistakes.
10-Explain Note On quantizing.
Note on quantizing moves the selected notes to the closet quantize value without changing their length
11-Explain Over Quantizing.
Moves the notes as with ‘note on’ but tries to detect chords and keep them together while moving notes about (more musically intelligent)
12-Explain Iterative Quantizing.
Moves notes a certain amount towards the closest quantize value.
‘Don’t Q’ specifies which notes are close enough to quantize value and don’t need to be moved
‘Strength’ specifies how strongly you want to pull the note to quantised value
13-What do quantize values such as 4,32,16T etc represent?
Resolution (number of ticks) to which a bar is split up and quantized.
14-What is the score editor and how does it display musical information?
A score editor displays MIDI information in the traditional style of music notation. Its displayed in its own window with notes, rests and bars situated on a staff. The score scrolls as music plays and can be printed out on a hard copy.
15-How, and using what protocol, may a Sequencer be synchronised to a multitrack recorder?
With an analogue multitrack, it would have to be set as master with its own SMPTE timecode recorded on one of its tracks. The SMPTE must be converted to MTC so that a MIDI sequencer (with its MIDI devices) can be sync’d to the timecode.
With a digital multitrack, it can be connected straight to a sequencer using only MTC over a MIDI connection (master MTC can come from digital multitrack or sequencer).
16-If you change the tempo of the song, what will happen to (a) the MIDI parts? (b) the Audio parts?
The MIDI parts will be played back at different speeds without the sounds themselves changing (pitch, timbre will be the same). With audio parts, they will play at different speeds but the pitch and timbre of the original sound will be stretched/distorted and out of sync.
17-How does the application Recycle allow MIDI to control Audio parts?
Recycle is an audio processing tool for drum loops. It uses a slicing technique to cut up (atomize) loops. Once sliced the sections can be transmitted to a sampler and mapped along the keyboard. MIDI can then be used to trigger different sections of the loop. The main advantage of this is that the loop can be played back at different tempos without be stretched/distorted.
18-What is OMS?(OPEN MUSIC SYSTEM)
OMS is a standard MIDI driver that sequencers can or must use. It bridges the gap between MIDI applications and MIDI hardware. OMS is standard for MIDI management providing detailed descriptions that define users studio setup.
19-How does OMS simplify MIDI studio setups?
OMS allows access to your studio by instrument and patch name.
20-What's the difference between type 0 & 1 MIDI sequences?
SMF (standard MIDI file) developed to allow MIDI data from one software package to be transferred to another while being independent of OS platform. There are two formats of SMF, Type 0 and Type 1. Both contain the same data but the way its arranged within the file is different.
Type 0 = single track data (no regard to MIDI channel reference)
Type 1 = multi-track data (separate track for each MIDI channel)
21-Why are there 'virtual' MIDI ports available (i.e. Hubis Loopback)?
They allow other software programs (ie. soft synths) in Windows to be controlled by a sequencer using MIDI signals.
Hubis Loopback is a MIDI driver that gives up to 4 virtual MIDI ports. A virtual port can act as both an input and output MIDI device. MIDI data sent to the output is automatically channelled to all connected programs at the input side
22-What is the 'rewire' protocol? (By Propellerheads)
Rewire is a system for transferring audio data between two computer applications in real time. Acts as an invisible cable streaming audio between two programs. Can stream up to 256 individual audio and 4080 individual MIDI channels in real time.
23-What is the rocket networks protocol and how does it work?
Used in the area of online musical collaboration. The technology allows users to turn their sequencers into a virtual studio space where multiple musicians on the internet can work on the same song at the same time. Rocket provides online studio space where people you know can work together in a private studio
24-What are step sequencers?
A step sequencer is a repeating pattern of equally spaced notes
Music functions are treated as physical boxes like old analogue sequencers.
Each channel is split into sections like a grid with on which patterns can be written
25-Why are step sequencers usually more suitable for percussion & drum parts?
With percussion only one sample is used per track. Normal instruments require different notes/samples to be played back on a single track.
26-Why are click tracks important functions in MIDI/Audio sequencers?
Click tracks are created with an electronic metronome. Used to keep musicians’ timing together while recording. This constant meter allows for a musician to revisit a part and be able to pick up the beat very quickly.
27-Why do many sequencers metronomes allow either Audio or MIDI clicks?
An audio click track will respond to absolute time.
A MIDI click will be variable with the tempo of the track.
28-How is MIDI data such as modulation and pan usually displayed in part editors?
Its is displayed in an Event editor underneath and in sync with the piano roll editor. Such data for each note is represented as vertical lines (height = magnitude of data) directly underneath it.
29-How many times is master clock transmitted per quarter note?
Master clock sends 24 MIDI Clock message, spaced at equal intervals, per every quarter note interval
30-What are the functions of the master and slave in any synchronisation situation?
The master creates the origin of the timecode used to synchronise equipment together. The master will send a periodic timecode to which a slave will follow.
31-What timing division does SPP (song position pointers) work on?
SPP tells slave how many 16th notes have elapsed since the beginning of the track started
32-What is MIDI Sync mode and what synchronisation protocols does it accept?
MIDI sync mode is used to setup the synchronisation of MIDI devices. Without MIDI sync a slave would run of its own internal clock. Sync protocols accepted are MIDI clock and MTC.
33-What is the primary difference between MIDI Time Code and MIDI Clock, and why is MTC more accurate?
MIDI clock is tempo based (measure of relative time)
MTC is a real time reference (measure of absolute time)
MTC is more accurate than MIDI clock as it contains information regarding the position of the song
using a real time address.
34-Define the basics of SMPTE?(Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers)
Time code synchronization protocol originally developed for use in film/TV to deal with video tape technology. Equally useful for audio only applications. A Time Code source provides the signal for other devices in the system to synchronise to and follow. The code provides a unique address for each frame of a signal and is given in hours, minutes, seconds and frames. There are 4 standard frame rates (frames/second?) 24, 25, 30 and 30 ‘drop frame’.
35-What similarities are there between SMPTE and MTC?
MTC is digital representation of SMPTE that is compatible with MIDI signalling. Both give a timecode address in HH, MM, SS, Frames.
36-How does FSK work? (Frequency Shift Keying)
Use of frequency modulation to transmit digital data.
A simple modulation technique that merges binary data into a carrier. It creates only two changes in frequency: one for 0, another for 1 which alternate back and forth in rapid succession. Used to send signalling and control messages
Used to synchronise devices (sequencers/drum machines/tape machine) before MIDI was available
37-Does standard-FSK synchronisation give any indication of song position?
No location information included so song always had to be played from the very beginning to achieve proper synchronisation. Drop outs and glitches would mean song had to be restarted making FSK an unreliable method. With FSK, tape machine acts as master with sequencer as slave.
38-What improvements does Smart-FSK offer over standard FSK?
Enhanced version of FSK which uses MIDI song position pointers so a song can be stopped and started at any point. Smart FSK gives practical benefits of SMPTE but with fewer complications.
39-If using FSK with analogue tape, why must the speed of the tape not change after recording the FSK timing information?
The FSK signal is frequency dependent. Changing the speed of the tape will alter the frequency of the FSK signal and wont be able to be read by the system.
40-What is the 'tempo master' and what is the 'transport master' within a MIDI synchronised setup?
Tempo master is the master sequencer that controls the tempo of the synchronised system/slaves.
The transport master controls the play/stop/record and cueing of a synchronised system
41-What problems may arise from extensive use of controller data within a MIDI piece?
Too much MIDI data will cause timing problems. Timecode signals being passed round a MIDI system may be swamped with controller data slowing them down (increased system latency).
42-Name 2 different connection protocols for MIDI interfaces?
Serial, Parallel ports, USB and Firewire.
43-Can tempo changes and time signature changes be made during a song within a sequencer?
Tempo/Time signature changes can be made during a song. Midi instruments will play back normally at a faster pace, but audio tracks will become distorted/stretched and out of sync. Used subtly tempo changes can add a more live feel to a track
44-What considerations must be made when using a software sequencer as part of a live show?
Cabling required to set up system, power supply?
Time taken to load software
System stability, is it prone to crashing?
Latency issues, are there large daisy chains MIDI devices, how many soft synths are being used?
timecode ‘master’?
45-Regarding audio sequencers and plug-ins;
a) What is the difference between a native plug-in and one that requires DSP?
Calculations for a ‘native’ plug-in run off the computers CPU. Plugins using a DSP chip will offer a faster performance with no noticeable latency with a high plug-in count
b) What does DSP stand for?
Digital Signal Processing
http://www.iaekm.org/article81.htm
http://members.tripod.com/~TroyWoodfield/quantize.html
http://www.cakewalk.com/tips/desktop-MIDI.asp
http://www.mcn.org/heidsite/audio/MIDI.html#RTFToC11
http://www.soundrecordingadvice.com/studio7.html
http://www.flstudio.com/help/html/stepsequencer.htm
http://www.xoxmag.com/beats.htm
http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/jan04/articles/logicnotes.htm
http://members.magnet.at/hubwin/midi.html
http://www.borg.com/~jglatt/tutr/miditutr.htm
http://www.midiox.com/index.htm?http://www.midiox.com/mfaq.htm
http://www.musicmarketing.ca/products/il_fl03_pianoroll.htm
http://www.privateline.com/PCS/modulation.htm
http://www.recordingeq.com/EQ/req1000/sync2.htm |
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Sat Oct 29, 2005 5:37 pm |
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Polarman
Joined: 24 Jun 2005
Posts: 55
Location: Barbados |
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01-What is a MIDI sequencer?
A MIDI sequencer is a digital device that can edit, record, playback MIDI data. Most sequencers uses a track based interface so you can separate different instruments and voices making in a linear way just like a DAW or tape machine. Each track contains the entered MIDI performance (entered step by step or played in with a MIDI keyboard), control events and system messages.
(Huber & Runstein, 2005)
02-What are the advantages of hardware sequencers?
According to Huber & Runstein (2005) the advantages with hardware sequencers can be an integrated part on a keyboard workstation which means it carry both sequencers and sounds around. Don’t need to carry around a computer. It is cheaper then to buy a computer and software sequencer. Hardware sequencers are more stable very important during live performances.
03-What are the advantages of software sequencers?
The advantages of software sequencers are:
- Will have more parameters available then a hard ware sequencer.
- Since the graphic capabilities are better it’s easier to edit.
- Since normally you already own a computer the price is lower then buying a complete hardware sequencer.
-Increased graphic capabilities, standard computer cut and paste (Huber & Runstein, 2005)
04-What is a piano roll editor?
A piano roll editor is often also called key editor. The view is normally that on you left you have a picture of a piano that corresponds to the grid. With this presentation of the MIDI data you can move the notes around, enter new notes, shorten them, prolong them, delete them etc. You can also modify each notes velocity, controllers and other types of data (Huber & Runstein, 2005)
05-What is a 'drum map'?
In a MIDI instrument a drum kit is often a set of different drum sounds with each sound placed on a separate key (i.e. the different sounds are assigned to different MIDI note numbers). One key playing a bass drum sound, another playing a snare etc. However, different MIDI instruments often use different key assignments, which can be problem if a drum pattern has been created using one MIDI device, and then using that particular pattern on another MIDI device. When switching device, it is likely that the snare drum becomes a ride cymbal, or the hi-hat becomes a tom, etc. because the drum sounds are distributed differently in the two instruments. This problem can be solved with drum maps.
A drum map is a list of drum sounds, with a number of settings for each sound. When a MIDI track for which a drum map has been selected is played back, the MIDI notes are “filtered” through the drum map before being sent to the MIDI instrument. The map decides which MIDI note number is sent out for each drum sound, and which sound is played in the receiving MIDI device. To avoid this problem drum maps for all instruments should be created. When trying the drum pattern on another instrument, simply switch to the corresponding drum map and the snare drum sound will remain a snare drum sound (Nordmark, 2004).
06-What is usually seen in the 'arrange' window?
The arrange window provides you with an overview of the project, allowing you to navigate and perform large scale editing. The Arrange window is normally divided vertically into tracks, with a timeline running horizontally from left to right. The following track types are available: Audio, Folder, FX Channel, Group Channel, MIDI, Video tracks etc. Normally you can see subtracks to these tracks where you can automate mixer channel parameters, insert and send effects etc. (Nordmark, 2004)
07-What are Tempo/Meter maps?
Tempo meter maps or tempo meter tracks. Each audio or MIDI track in Cubase SX/SL can have a specification whether it should be time based or tempo based. For tempo based tracks, the tempo can either be fixed through the whole project (this is called “Fixed tempo mode”) or follow the Tempo track (this is called “Tempo track mode”), which may contain tempo changes (Nordmark, 2004).
08-What is the purpose of quantizing?
Quantizing is a function that automatically moves recorded notes and positions them on exact note values. Quantizing is a method of correcting errors but can also be used creatively in various ways. For example, the “quantize grid” does not have to consist of perfectly straight notes; some notes can automatically be excluded from quantizing and so on (Nordmark, 2004).
09-What is Groove Quantizing and how does it work?
Groove quantize maps can be generated based on the hitpoints created in the Sample Editor. Groove quantizing is not meant for correcting errors. It is meant for creating rhythmic feels, which is done by comparing recorded music with a “groove” (a timing grid generated from the file) and moving the appropriate notes so that their timing matches the one of the groove. In other words, the timing can be extracted from an audio loop and use it for quantizing MIDI parts (or other audio loops, after slicing them) (Nordmark, 2004).
10-Explain Note On quantizing.
This is the basic quantize approach. This type of quantizing moves the notes to the closest quantize value, without changing the length. For example, with a quantize value of 1, the notes are moved to the nearest whole beat. Two drum hits are pulled to the first beat while the other two beats arepulled to the second whole beat, as it is closer.
http://members.tripod.com/~TroyWoodfield/quantize.html
11-Explain Over Quantizing.
This type of quantizing moves the note, as above, but it also tries to detect chords and keeps them together while moving notes about. ie: It is more musically intelligent.
http://members.tripod.com/~TroyWoodfield/quantize.html
12-Explain Iterative Quantizing.
This type of Quantizing moves the notes a certain amount towards the closest quantize value, if they are not already close to it. How much the notes are moved, and what is considered "already close to the Quantize value", is set using the "Strength" and "Don't Q" parameters.
The strength value is set, which specifies how strongly the note should be pulled eg: If the strength is set to 60%, then the sequencer will move the note 60% of the way towards the Quantize value.
http://members.tripod.com/~TroyWoodfield/quantize.html
13-What do quantize values such as 4,32,16T etc represent?
This are note values that represents to which value the quanization should take place, it is the resolution of the quantising grid.
14-What is the score editor and how does it display musical information?
The Score Editor shows the MIDI notes as a musical score (Nordmark, 2004).
15-How, and using what protocol, may a Sequencer be synchronised to a multitrack recorder?
The first stage is to stripe the highest track on the tape with ascending code from the tapes beginning to the end. Then the code can be routed to the SMPTE interface. Or a box that converts SMPTE to MTC which then can be plugged into a MIDI in to the DAW or sequencer. It’s always cheaper to let the sequencer or the DAW act a slave and the tape act as master (Rumsey, 2004).
16-If you change the tempo of the song, what will happen to (a) the MIDI parts? (b) the Audio parts?
a) The MIDI parts will play according to the new tempo
b) The audio parts will not change tempo they will stay the same.
Where the different MIDI and audio parts will be played back depends if you have set the tracks to time or music base.
17-How does the application Recycle allow MIDI to control Audio parts?
Recycle let MIDI control audio parts. The audio file is sliced up according to a set resolution each slice can then be triggered with a MIDI note. The file format is .REX file. ReCycle lets you do with sampled loops what you can do with beats programmed from individual drum sounds – like alter the tempo, or replace sounds and process them individually.
http://www.propellerheads.se/products/recycle/index.cfm?fuseaction=mainframe
18-What is OMS?
OMS is the Open Music System and it provides detailed descriptions that define a MIDI studio setup. It allows for naming the devices and defining the connections between them.
A Macintosh system extension that bridges the gap between MIDI applications and MIDI hardware is the OMS Opcode MIDI System. This system acts as an internal MIDI patchbay/switcher, which makes it possible for any MIDI device can talk to any other through the computer.
Additionally, OMS acts as a central MIDI driver. OMS-compatible applications including Max, Galaxy, and EZ Vision use OMS to communicate with all the MIDI hardware in the studio. These applications can work with a greater variety of hardware because they no longer require their own MIDI drivers.
http://www.sfu.ca/sca/Manuals/247/oms/OMS.html
19-How does OMS simplify MIDI studio setups?
OMS provides a central location for defining and storing a detailed description of a MIDI studio. Information about all the devices in a MIDI studio is entered once with OMS and the OMS-compatible applications will then reference that setup.
OMS gives access to hundreds of MIDI channels. It is like a palette from which the devices and MIDI channels are selected. The MIDI interface determines the number of simultaneous MIDI channels, however OMS gives it access to every device and MIDI channel in the studio.
http://www.sfu.ca/sca/Manuals/247/oms/OMS.html
20-What's the difference between type 0 & 1 MIDI sequences?
According to Rumsey (2004). There are three different types of MIDI file types.
Type 0 is used for single track data or have all data on ONE time ordered track
Type 1 synchronous multiple track (part of a song)
Type 2 asynchronous (no timing relationship)
21-Why are there 'virtual' MIDI ports available (i.e. Hubis Loopback)?
Some instruments or programs need virtual MIDI Ports to receive and output MIDI Data from and to the sequencer one example can be VSLs performance tool.
22-What is the 'rewire' protocol?
ReWire is a technology for transferring audio data between software applications in real time. It is the software equivalent of a multi-channel audio cable. Propellerhead Software and Steinberg Soft- & Hardware realized that an important link was missing in the current concept of the software based music studio and the idea of ReWire was born. When connecting a synthesizer or other hardware musical instrument to a mixer or recorder of another brand, a simple audio cable is used. This was impossible to do in a software environment. With ReWire this is now possible.
ReWire provides up to 64 channels of real-time audio (at very high resolution and almost any bandwidth) to be transferred between applications. Moreover, it ensures sample accurate synchronization between clients and server, and provides common transport functionality (play, stop, locate etc.) for the complete system. The system is currently MacOS and Windows 98/NT compatible.
http://www.harmony-central.com/Events/WNAMM99/Steinberg/ReWire.html
23-What is the rocket networks protocol and how does it work?
The rocket networks protocol is a music industry global production network for audio production and session management. This standard has been established by the Rocket Network Company through development and resale partnerships with audio companies, including DSP Media, Digidesign/Avid, Euphonix, Emagic, MOTU, Steinberg and Waveframe. These companies have developed, or are in the process of developing RocketPower versions of their leading products. Rocket Network has developed an API (Application Programmers Interface) that is integrated directly into third party audio applications. With this users can access the Rocket Network from within their favourite audio product. Simultaneous multi-user access to files is possible and they can be dynamically updated from anywhere in the world. The Rocket Network Company's technology and services are becoming an integral part of a growing percent of professional audio sessions.
http://www.sweetwater.com/shop/pro-tools/glossary.php
24-What are step sequencers?
Step input, or step recording, is when notes are entered one at a time (or one chord at a time) without worrying about the exact timing. This is useful e.g. when the part to be record are known but are not able to be played exactly as wanted (Nordmark, 2004).
25-Why are step sequencers usually more suitable for percussion & drum parts?
If you have your drum map setup step sequencers makes it easy to build a groove, since you can manually enter where the different drums and percussion instruments should be triggered.
26-Why are click tracks important functions in MIDI/Audio sequencers?
The purpose of a click track is the same as any metronome: to guide the musicians temporally for the sake of timing consistency or some other timing concern. This would be to have hits and other cues occur at the proper time in the film, in film scoring. Click tracks have been recorded to tape (therefore the use of the word "track" in the name), but in modern production this is less common. Click tracks are often generated by computer software (such as MIDI sequencers) and played back in real time through some MIDI sound source. Nevertheless, in many instances they may also be recorded to the multi-track being used. This is for the sake of convenience, and as a fail-safe method.
http://www.sweetwater.com/expert-center/glossary/t-ClickTrack
27-Why do many sequencers metronomes allow either Audio or MIDI clicks?
The reason why many sequencers metronomes allow either Audio or MIDI clicks is that you are able to choose the sound you want on the metronome.
28-How is MIDI data such as modulation and pan usually displayed in part editors?
MIDI data such as modulation and pan is usually displayed in part editors as graphs or lines which you can modify after recording.
29-How many times is master clock transmitted per quarter note?
The master clock is transmitted 24 (PPQN) times per quarter note.
30-What are the functions of the master and slave in any synchronisation situation?
In order for any two or more devices to sync to one another, one of them has to act as a master while others act as slaves and follow it. The master machine is under its own control and determines the location and timing or speed of playback. It is possible for a machine to be the master in one domain (such as location) while being a slave in another (such as speed). All machines are driven by one master clock (speed) source and controlled by one master controller.
When two devices are synchronized to one another it is necessary to have one be the master and the other the slave. The slave unit responds to commands or information from the master and is consequently controlled by it. This is the basic principle behind all synchronization in audio and video. For example, if a computer system is following an analog tape machine it can be said to be "slaved" to it.
http://www.sweetwater.com/insync/search.php
31-What timing division does SPP (song position pointers) work on?
A type of MIDI message held in a MIDI sequencer or synchronizer telling a connected device how many 16th notes have elapsed since the beginning of a song. When used in conjunction with MIDI clocks, this allows operation similar to true time code (which provides location as well as speed information). SPP is used by sequencers and synchronizers which do not support MIDI Time Code (MTC) or SMPTE time code as a means of locating to a point in a song other than the beginning or the end. For example, a sequencer synched to a tape deck can use SPP to start at the correct bar and beat even if the deck hasn't been rewound to the beginning of the song, or has been fast-forwarded from where it was stopped.
http://www.sweetwater.com/insync/search.php
32-What is MIDI Sync mode and what synchronisation protocols does it accept?
When MDI Sync Mode is set to external the device will act as slave and sync according to an external clock. When MIDI sync mode is set to internal the device will act as master and sync according to its internal clock.
Many older pieces of midi gear can only respond to Midi Clock, while most new equipment can respond to MIDI Clock as well as to SPP, often referred to as "MIDI Sync". The Midi Clock is the tempo controller, and the SPP is the positional controller. For the slaves to receive this information, they must be set to Midi Sync mode. These three sync components are all examples of relative sync i.e. they don't represent exact locations on tape or in the song. Just close estimations. It is so close that it won’t be noticed most of the time. Machines having Midi Sync can be used with those using SMPTE by having a converter box in the middle. The tape machine will send the SMPTE to the converter, which will convert it to Midi Sync and send it out to the slaves. Therefore, the converter is the tempo and sync master. On the converter, the song tempo and the offset must be specified. The offset is the SMPTE time value at which the converter will send a start message and Midi Clocks to the slave, so it will start playing. Additionally, the converter will send out SPP pulses for location.
http://www.recordingwebsite.com/articles/sync2.php
33-What is the primary difference between MIDI Time Code and MIDI Clock, and why is MTC more accurate?
Midi Time Code is a form of sync that is absolute and it uses a real-time number to represent an exact location of the song at an exact time. No tempo pulses are involved. This number is similar to SMPTE and therefore MTC is used to interface computers (which use Midi) to SMPTE. Because the computer sends out word clock signals to the tape machine it is the tempo master. The tape machine is the transport master. For MTC to be compatible with SMPTE, a converter box is again needed to convert one to the other. However, the SMPTE frame rate it will be converting to/from must be specified, and the offset must be set. In this case, the offset is the difference between the actual SMPTE time and the MTC time that the song starts at. For both Midi Sync and Midi Time Code, there are different ways to connect your units to the converter box.
http://www.recordingwebsite.com/articles/sync2.php
34-Define the basics of SMPTE?
Time code is the standard method of interlocking audio, video and film transports. The code was developed by Society Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). The address code cannot slip and keeps it accuracy from 1/24th to 1/30th of a second.
The frame rate for audio by itself is 30 frames per second, if you were working with video or film and trying to sync it up with audio information, you would have to change the frame rate. The other frame rates are 24fps, 25fps, 29.97 non-drop frame, 29.97 drop- frame, and 30 drop frame. Each audio or video frame is tagged with a unique identifying number called time code address. This is an eight digit address in the form of HH:MM:SS:FF. (Huber & Runstein, 2005)
http://www.recordingwebsite.com/articles/sync1.php
35-What similarities are there between SMPTE and MTC?
This MTC is very much like SMPTE. MTC is used to interface computers (which use Midi) to SMPTE. The computer is the tempo master because it sends out word clock signals to the tape machine, while the tape machine is the transport master. A converter box is needed for MTC to be compatible with SMPTE. This converts one to the other. However, the SMPTE frame rate it will be converting to/from must be specified, and the offset must be set. In this case, the offset is the difference between the actual SMPTE time and the MTC time that the song starts at. For both Midi Sync and Midi Time Code, there are different ways to connect your units to the converter box.
http://www.recordingwebsite.com/articles/sync2.php
36-How does FSK work?
FSK stands for frequency shift key. FSK is only a tempo-relative sync signal, and gives no indication of location. Therefore, it can only be used in conjunction with Midi Clock signals. When hooked to Midi Clocks through a converter box, FSK responds by alternating a tone from 1.5KHz to 2.5KHz for every clock pulse. The converter, based on a specific Midi Clock tempo from the sequencer, will generate this tone, which will then get recorded onto tape. Then during playback, the FSK signal gets converted back to Midi Clocks to keep the sequencer in tempo. However, since the converter will only respond to the frequencies of 1.5KHz and 2.5KHz, the tape speed cannot change during playback once the FSK signal is recorded, since changes in speed will change the pitches. After initially recording FSK, make sure to leave enough signal before starting to record tracks of your song, because the tape machine may take a few seconds to ramp up to speed. Also, as with SMPTE time code, don't record your FSK levels too hot because they can bleed into other tracks.
http://www.recordingwebsite.com/articles/sync2.php
37-Does standard-FSK synchronisation gives any indication of song position?
No, FSK is only a tempo-relative sync signal, and gives no indication of location.
38-What improvements does Smart-FSK offer over standard FSK?
Smart-FSK is almost the same as regular FSK, except that it can indicate a specific position in the song based on 16th notes. Smart FSK can therefore be used with Midi Sync and is still recorded and played back in the same fashion as FSK. Except that the converter must be told to create Smart FSK instead of just FSK. The tape machine is the master and the sequencer is the slave.
http://www.recordingwebsite.com/articles/sync2.php
39- If using FSK with analogue tape, why must the speed of the tape not change after recording the FSK timing information?
Since the recorded sync signals are tones the speed must be the same as the recorded speed otherwise it will not be recognized by the receiving FSK device therefore poor or no link will be possible.
40-What is the 'tempo master' and what is the 'transport master' within a MIDI synchronised setup?
The computer is the tempo master because it sends out word clock signals to the tape machine. The tape machine is the transport master.
http://www.recordingwebsite.com/articles/sync2.php
41-What problems may arise from extensive use of controller data within a MIDI piece?
A problem that may arise from extensive use of controller data within a MIDI piece is latency due to extensive data transmission which may also interfere with the timing of notes and could cause possible data overload and in worst case the computer freezes or crashes.
42-Name 2 different connection protocols for MIDI interfaces?
Two different connection protocols are 5 pin DIN connector and USB.
43- Can tempo changes and time signature changes be made during a song within a sequencer?
Yes normally there is a tempo track in the sequencer where you can change tempo or time signature wherever a tempo/signature change is needed.
44-What considerations must be made when using a software sequencer as part of a live show?
- A back up power supply is important I power goes of.
- Control over loading times
45-Regarding audio sequencers and plug-ins;
a) What is the difference between a native plug-in and one that requires DSP?
In a host-based processing system all calculations are done by the computer (CPU), all effects are native, processing, mixing etc. Audio signals are different in structure from standard computer data. This can give problems with latency and disk performance.
The alternative to host-based processing is DSP, or digital signal processing where using DSP chips specially designed for the purpose. Digidesign's Pro Tools, for example, uses DSP cards to perform mixing and plug-in effects. The latency of a DSP-based system is very low, of the order of 3 to 4 milliseconds. The cost of a DSP-based system is higher then a host-based system.
b) What does DSP stand for?
DSP stands for Digital Signal Processing
_______________________________________________________________________
SOURCES:
Huber, D.M., & Runstein, R.E. (2005). Modern Recording Techniques, 6th ed. Focal Press: Burlington
Rumsey, F. (2004). Desktop Audio Technology: digital audio and MIDI principles. Focal Press:Oxford.
Nordmark, A.(2004) Cubase SX3 Operation Manual- Music Creation and Production System. Steinberg:
http://members.tripod.com/~TroyWoodfield/quantize.html
http://www.propellerheads.se/products/recycle/index.cfm?fuseaction=mainframe
http://www.sfu.ca/sca/Manuals/247/oms/OMS.html
http://www.harmony-central.com/Events/WNAMM99/Steinberg/ReWire.html
http://www.sweetwater.com/shop/pro-tools/glossary.php
http://www.sweetwater.com/expert-center/glossary/t-ClickTrack
http://www.sweetwater.com/insync/search.php
http://www.recordingwebsite.com/articles/sync2.php
http://www.recordingwebsite.com/articles/sync1.php |
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