ben m
Joined: 15 Sep 2002
Posts: 337
Location: UK |
| Week 9 -Sequencers |
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Ok, thankfully it looks like we've just about caught up now so here are the Sequencing questions;
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?
Good Luck
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ben@audiocourses.com |
Wed Oct 29, 2003 11:30 pm |
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Albow
Joined: 02 Sep 2003
Posts: 27
Location: Spain |
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Well, I had struggeled through about half of the RT questions when the MT ones came in, so I thought I'd pick them up and run with them, seeing as I always leave them too late.
Thanks to the former students who I owe massively for information.
By the way, this Netscape-based editor won't let me paste in Star Office documents as bold type or let me change to bold in this window. Soz.
01-What is a MIDI sequencer?
A midi sequencer takes a sound from a midi instrument and gives the user the
possiblity of playing recording and editing the sound.
02-What are the advantages of hardware sequencers?
Hardware sequencers are dedicated midi devices and as such do not require the
addition of expensive hardware and/or software to function. Having a
hardware sequencer also takes away the need to use up resources on your PC.
03-What are the advantages of software sequencers?
If one has the resources of a computer to spare, software sequencers can be a
cheap way to get started, can be installed on the system and produce files
which can be trasferred easily between systems. You can also have the
function of feeding in vocals or output from non-midi instruments for
inlcusion in the track containing the midi recording.
04-What is a piano roll editor?
It is an editor that enables the user to transpose the duration of midi
on-key off/key events to map out the stretch of music being composed.
05-What is a 'drum map'?
A drum map is used to display how each sound is represented by the midi 8-way
dip switches. A key can be assigned to each drum sound required and be used
when required.
06-What is usually seen in the 'arrange' window?
This is a graphical patterns representing the activity in a track.
07-What are Tempo/Meter maps?
These chart what tempos the song has and ensure that the sequencer changes
along with the tempos of the track. It can then send the tempos to other
midi devices attached and will specify bars / musical tempo scores against
real time measurements.
08-What is the purpose of quantizing?
Quantize ensures that any notes added to a track are done so it sync with the
specified tempo and time signature of the track.
09-What is Groove Quantizing and how does it work?
Groove Quantizing sets the quantizing to a particular genre and aligns the
quantizing so that notes are aligned to the tempo in the appropriate manner
that most reflects the nuances inherent in natural human playing for that
musical style.
10-Explain Note On quantizing.
This is when quatizing lines up the start of the note to the nearest
specified time signature unit (eight/half/bar etc.) and leaves the end of
the note where it is.
11-Explain Over Quantizing.
Over quantizing is quantizing the note to the point where the note on and
note off are both quantized to the nearest value, and can result in losing
expression from the piece.
12-Explain Iterative Quantizing.
This moves the note towards the given quantize value according to a
pre-selected parameter stating the strength of move desired. It can be added
in stages, if the user feels that a bit more strength is required he can add
a touch more.
13-What do quantize values such as 4,32,16T etc represent?
1/4note, 1 32nd note, 1/16 note triplet
14-What is the score editor and how does it display musical information?
This shows you the sheet music representation for the track and allows the
editing thereof.
15-How, and using what protocol, may a Sequencer be synchronised to a
multitrack recorder?
Using Smart or SMPTE FSK - frequency shift keying, takes the time code from
the tape when it is playing and feeds the time code to the sequencer.
16-If you change the tempo of the song, what will happen to (a) the MIDI
parts? (b) the Audio parts?
The MIDI part will speed up/slow down, but the pitch will stay the same.
With the audio part, the pitch will rise as the tempo goes up.
17-How does the application Recycle allow MIDI to control Audio parts?
Recycle breaks audio down into manageable-size pieces, so that the audio can
follow MIDI in changes of tempo and not have the pitch altered.
18-What is OMS?
Open Music System, latterly Open Midi System. Devised by Opcode, it provides
drivers to run OMS software with Midi.
19-How does OMS simplify MIDI studio setups?
OMS gives a centralised representation of the whole midi studio setup, so
that you can control it centrally from the OMS appliaction. It also gives
the option of using the keyboard as a comprehensive midi controller.
20-What's the difference between type 0 & 1 MIDI sequences?
Type 0 contain all midi data in one track. Type 1 contain data in multiple
tracks.
21-Why are there 'virtual' MIDI ports available (i.e. Hubis Loopback)?
Virtual ports are used for virtual synths that are used in the OS and have no
physical characteristics. That way these internal devices can add to or
modify sounds.
22-What is the 'rewire' protocol?
The rewire protocol enables one SW application to operate within another,
providing a vitual port to process sound from one to another and allowing it
to be treated as required and added to the general mix of a track.
23-What is the rocket networks protocol and how does it work?
Rocket Networks Protocol aims to provide a number os musicians to have
realtime musical interaction with each other over the internet, so that they
can play together as if they were in each other's company.
24-What are step sequencers?
Step sequencers are used to get back to a more natural rythrm, even perhaps
analogue, whereby the notes are played in accordance with sliders as opposed
to squarely-defined data. The result is that the track develops a human
feel.
25-Why are step sequencers usually more suitable for percussion & drum parts?
Because they are used more often than not to provide a backdrop in reliable
time. Drums are normally what forms the backbone of the song and are more
difficult to keep in perfect time by a human being.
26-Why are click tracks important functions in MIDI/Audio sequencers?
So that musicians adding their own performance to the track can play in good
time with the sequencer.
27-Why do many sequencers metronomes allow either Audio or MIDI clicks?
Could it be to provide complete compatibility?
28-How is MIDI data such as modulation and pan usually displayed in part
editors?
As a numeric value between 0 and 127
29-How many times is master clock transmitted per quarter note?
6 per semiquaver (16th note) 6 x 16 = 64
30-What are the functions of the master and slave in any synchronisation
situation?
The master will start playback and the slave will start only if the master
starts. When the master stops the slave will. The tempo is dictated by the
slave, which shadows the master.
31-What timing division does SPP (song position pointers) work on?
One midi beat which is a sixteenth note of a bar
32-What is MIDI Sync mode and what synchronisation protocols does it accept?
MIDI sync mode sets the time basis for the midi master and any devices
connected to it. Each midi keyboard or sequencer will have its own internal
midi clock and will adhere to that unless Midi sync mode is set.
33-What is the primary difference between MIDI Time Code and MIDI Clock, and
why is MTC more accurate?
MTC is an attempt to bring the midi clock closer to SMPTE, which keeps track
of real time as we know it in seconds, hours and minutes. Midi Clock deals
with timing notes and musical tempos.
34-Define the basics of SMPTE?
Standing fot Society of Motion Picure and Television Engineers, this method
consists of striping tape with time code from the 24-hour clock, so that
frames can be measured and controlled in perfect time.
35-What similiarities are there between SMPTE and MTC?
MTC is SMPTE for midi
36-How does FSK work?
Frequency Shift Keying works by sending a pulse signal to a spare track of a
tape machine and keeps the tape in sync.
37-Does standard-FSK synchronisation give any indication of song position?
No it doesn't. Taking up position at the start of a song is not an option
and for syncronisation to be ensured, both systems have to play from the
start.
38-What improvements does Smart-FSK offer over standard FSK?
Smart FSK resolves the above issue by carrying SPPs (Song Position Pointers)
39-If using FSK with analogue tape, why must the speed of the tape not change
after recording the FSK timing information?
Because the tape will become out-of-sync with the stripes.
40-What is the 'tempo master' and what is the 'transport master' within a
MIDI synchronised setup?
Tempo master maps tempo changes throughout the track, whereas transport
master syncs the entire track through playback (I don't really know)
41-What problems may arise from extensive use of controller data within a
MIDI piece?
This will saturate the bus and potentially cause latency problems.
42-Name 2 different connection protocols for MIDI interfaces?
Midi ports have standard 5 pin DIN plug connectors. SCSI is another
protocol.
43-Can tempo changes and time signature changes be made during a song within
a sequencer?
Yes
44-What considerations must be made when using a software sequencer as part
of a live show?
That everyone else on stage can sync to the midi, perhaps through a click
track. A backup must be available in case of data failure. A visual
confirmation that everthing is in place should be provide, for example by
laptop screeens.
 
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Thu Oct 30, 2003 4:56 pm |
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mommi
Joined: 21 Apr 2003
Posts: 47
Location: Tallinn, Estonia |
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Hi,
So what have you to say about step sequencers? Waiting for that
01-What is a MIDI sequencer?
A MIDI sequencer is a device for recording, storing, editing and playing back MIDI data. It is an equivalent of an multitrack recorder, but it records performance information (as that’s what MIDI is about) instead of audio data.
02-What are the advantages of hardware sequencers?
Portability, reliability and price (if you don’t have a computer, you don’t need to buy it, and you don’t need to spend money software either).
If used together with a computer, the advantages are distributed processing - as some of the processing is carried out on the sequencer, there is less overhead on the computer’s CPU.
03-What are the advantages of software sequencers?
Price again Meaning if you do have a computer already, getting a sequencer software into it costs definitely less than a piece of hardware. In addition, software sequencers offer the greatest variety of features. Some are capable of printing out the score, others allow to record audio data along with MIDI. Interfacing through a large computer screen is also helpful.
04-What is a piano roll editor?
A piano roll editor is an editing window that has a piano keyboard on the left hand side, turned the right side up. The main part of a window represents the midi notes graphically, time dimension represented horizontally and pitch vertically. So the note position on the keyboard determines its height on the graphical window, and the note duration is represented by the corresponding line length.
05-What is a 'drum map'?
General MIDI Drum Map defines mapping of drum sound to note numbers on MIDI channel 10. On a sequencer it can be represented graphically.
06-What is usually seen in the 'arrange' window?
MIDI parts (blocks representing recorded data). During playback, the parts scroll across the screen.
07-What are Tempo/Meter maps?
Tempo and meter maps store the starting tempo and meter alongside with the corresponding SMPTE (MTC) location, plus any subsequent tempo/meter changes.
08-What is the purpose of quantizing?
The first purpose is error correction in the time domain. Rhythmically instable or incorrect (within limits) playing is transformed into more exact performance.
The second purpose is somewhat the opposite – inducing slight variations from the “right” timing on the rhythm. The ultimate purpose is to arrive at live-like performance.
09-What is Groove Quantizing and how does it work?
http://www.mightywight.net/quantisation.htm
Groove quantizing is meant to create rhythmic feels, it is not an error correction means. You can set up your own ‘maps’ for quantizing, or load them from the library. Grooves derived from analysis of the feel of live recordings can be bought separately.
10-Explain Note On quantizing.
Note On quantizing simply shifts the beginning of notes to the nearest Quantize value, keeping note lengths intact.
11-Explain Over Quantizing.
Once again, the beginning of notes are shifted to the closest Quantize value, but, in addition, the same is done with the note ends.
12-Explain Iterative Quantizing.
Iterative Quantizing works in stages. It moves the notes towards the selected Quantize value according to a strength parameter set in a dialogue box. Certain notes can also be excluded by setting a number of ticks (between 0 and 96) that a note can differ from the Quantize position without being moved. You can keep using this iterative Quantize in successive passes, moving notes nearer and nearer the Quantize value
13-What do quantize values such as 4,32,16T etc represent?
A quarter note, a 32nd note, and a 1/16 note triplet.
14-What is the score editor and how does it display musical information?
Score editor represents MIDI data in music notation form, ie using staves, clefs, noteheads and –stems, rests etc. Very informative and convenient for those able to read sheet music.
15-How, and using what protocol, may a Sequencer be synchronised to a multitrack recorder?
Using SMPTE Longitudinal Time Code. A sequencer is usually able to output LTC, this should be recorded (aka striped) onto a multitrack recorder track before other recordings are made. By convention, a track with the highest number is used for sync data. Then, for synchronizing, the sync tone from the sync track should be routed to the sequencers sync input.
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 speed up or slow down, leaving the playback pitch intact. There will be no changes in audio parts.
17-How does the application Recycle allow MIDI to control Audio parts?
Recycle splices the audio into small pieces. When the playback tempo is changed, these pieces are combined to achieve part speed up / slow down without changing the pitch.
18-What is OMS?
http://www.opcode.com/products/oms
Opcode's Open Music System
OMS, the Opcode's Open Music System is the standard for MIDI management. OMS provides detailed descriptions that define studio setups. MIDI setups are displayed and edited onscreen with icons illustrating connections to MIDI interfaces, sound cards and instruments. OMS allows access to the studio by instrument and patch name.
19-How does OMS simplify MIDI studio setups?
OMS allows access and control of the studio by instrument and patch name from a central OMS application. MIDI setups are displayed and edited onscreen with icons illustrating connections to MIDI interfaces, sound cards and instruments.
20-What's the difference between type 0 & 1 MIDI sequences?
http://midconverter.com/faq.shtml
Type 1 files contain separate information for each track. For a type 0 file, however, all the tracks are merged into a single track, although MIDI channel information is still retained. When a type 0 file is loaded into a sequencer, it will take each channel's information and put it on a separate track. So for a typical sequence with one track per MIDI channel, it will not normally matter if the sequence is saved as type 0 or type 1. But if your source sequence has several tracks assigned to the same MIDI channel (for example several drum tracks playing the same program on the same channel, but with an individual drum sound on each track), then it is best to export it as a type 1 file.
21-Why are there 'virtual' MIDI ports available (i.e. Hubis Loopback)?
It seems software synths and other (not only ‘soft’) devices can be connected to these virtual ports, creating an equivalent of physical connection in the ‘real’ world. An example usage would be playing the sound card's synthesizer from an external MIDI keyboard.
22-What is the 'rewire' protocol?
http://news.harmony-central.com/Newp/WNAMM99/Steinberg/ReWire.html
ReWire is a technology for transferring audio data between software applications, in real time, the software equivalent of a multi-channel audio cable. ReWire provides up to 64 channels of real-time audio (at extremely high resolution and practically any bandwidth) to be transferred between applications. It also ensures sample accurate synchronization between clients and server, and provides common transport functionality (play, stop, locate etc.) for the entire system.
23-What is the rocket networks protocol and how does it work?
http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/may01/articles/netnotes.htm
http://news.harmony-central.com/Newp/WNAMM00/Steinberg/Rocket_Release.html
http://www.digidesign.com/news/details.cfm?story_id=49
Rocket Network, Inc. was the first and only company to provide Internet Recording Studios where audio professionals can meet online, collaborate and produce original audio from anywhere in the world. Rocket provided the online studio space for musicians to work in, and while there are public studios available, the idea is that you book a private studio to work in with people you know, where distance is a problem.
Avid Technology, Inc. has now acquired the assets of privately held software company Rocket Network, Inc., a San Francisco-based developer of internet media collaboration and delivery products for audio and video media.
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?
Click tracks provide timing references for musicians playing along with a sequencer / MIDI equipment.
27-Why do many sequencers metronomes allow either Audio or MIDI clicks?
I suppose it is just a matter of flexibility. If you like the sound of an Audio click, use it. Should you need differently sounding clicks, get the MIDI clicks into a synth or sound module.
28-How is MIDI data such as modulation and pan usually displayed in part editors?
As numeric values between 0 and 127.
29-How many times is master clock transmitted per quarter note?
24 times.
30-What are the functions of the master and slave in any synchronization situation?
The master determines the initial position, tempo, all movements, and provides syncing reference (time code). The slave follows the master.
31-What timing division does SPP (song position pointers) work on?
http://www.midi.org/about-midi/table1.shtml
SPP is a 14-bit register that holds the number of MIDI beats since the start of the song. 1 MIDI beat = 6 MIDI clocks. As a Timing Clock message is sent 24 times per quarter note, this means SPPs work on sixteenths.
32-What is MIDI Sync mode and what synchronisation protocols does it accept?
MIDI Sync mode has to be set on the slave machine if it has to synchronize to the master. Otherwise the two devices would use each their own internal clock.
Two protocols, MIDI Time Code (MTC) and MIDI Clock.
Specifically, MIDI Clock + Song Position Pointer is referred to as MIDI Sync.
33-What is the primary difference between MIDI Time Code and MIDI Clock, and why is MTC more accurate?
MTC is an absolute reference, based upon SMPTE using hours, minutes, seconds and frames. Timing clock is a relative reference, based on quarter note subdivisions.
The smallest time interval in MTC is covered by MTC Quarter Frame message. For a 30 fps case this would mean 120 Quarter Frame messages a second. The MIDI Clock ticks 24 times per 1/4 note. Even if the tempo was as high as 180 bpm, this would mean only 3 quarter notes a second and 72 clocks per second, respectively.
34-Define the basics of SMPTE?
http://www.philrees.co.uk/articles/timecode.htm
SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers) timecode uses hours, minutes, seconds and frames as its basis. The number of frames per second differs amongst different SMPTE substandards. It can be 30 or “almost 30” (29.97 fps, called 30 Drop Frame and used for video work in America, Japan and generally the 60 Hz, NTSC TV standard world). Or 25 fps for EBU (European Broadcast Union) for 50 Hz mains and PAL or SECAM TV world. A 24 fps form of SMPTE is rarely used for audio, but required for film work.
SMPTE Longitudinal TimeCode encodes its data into the rate (frequency) of electronic state transitions. The binary value 0 is represented by a single transition at the start (or 'boundary') of the bit-period (or bit 'cell'). The binary value 1 is represented by a two transitions - one at the start and the second in the middle of the bit period. This scheme is called 'Bi-Phase Mark'.
35-What similiarities are there between SMPTE and MTC?
The SMPTE timing information (in hours, minutes, seconds, and, frames) is carried by a MIDI connection through the MIDI Time Code or MTC standard. MTC acts as a bridge between SMPTE and MIDI.
36-How does FSK work?
http://www.recordingeq.com/EQ/req1000/sync2.htm
FSK, Frequency Shift Keying, means a frequency modulation where the modulating signal (binary 0 or 1) switches (shifts) the frequency between predetermined values. This is a digital-to-analog modulation technique. The modulated – audio – form of sync data can then be transferred through and recorded to ordinary audio channels.
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.
37-Does standard-FSK synchronisation give any indication of song position?
No (see the quote above).
38-What improvements does Smart-FSK offer over standard FSK?
Smart FSK is almost identical to regular FSK, except that it can indicate a specific position in the song based on 16th notes (these are Song Position Pointers, as we know  ) Therefore, Smart FSK can be used with MIDI Sync (MIDI Clock + SPP is referred to as MIDI Sync). It is still recorded and played back in the same fashion as FSK, except that you must tell the converter to create Smart FSK instead of just FSK. The tape machine is the master and the sequencer is the slave.
39-If using FSK with analogue tape, why must the speed of the tape not change after recording the FSK timing information?
During playback, the FSK signal gets converted back to Midi Clocks to keep the sequencer in tempo. Since the converter will only respond to the frequencies of 1.5KHz and 2.5KHz, changing the tape speed will penalize the conversion as the converter does not see the above frequencies (these drift with the tape speed) anymore.
40-What is the 'tempo master' and what is the 'transport master' within a MIDI synchronised setup?
The MIDI includes a group of single-byte messages called System Real Time messages. Of them, four are concerned with synchronization – Clock, Start, Continue and Stop.
The tempo master sends out Clock signals, the transport master is responsible for sending Start, Continue and Stop.
41-What problems may arise from extensive use of controller data within a MIDI piece?
Control Change messages involve relatively lot of data. This can produce data traffic overload / channel saturation, manifesting in increased latency.
42-Name 2 different connection protocols for MIDI interfaces?
USB, FireWire
43-Can tempo changes and time signature changes be made during a song within a sequencer?
As they say it – yes 
44-What considerations must be made when using a software sequencer as part of a live show?
One consideration is probably getting the other band to sync to the sequencer. Since the latter sits in the computer, you don’t have a physical metronome output as is the case with hardware sequencers. Including a click track in the sequence means an external synth or something must be used to get the click out. Quite an expensive click, isn’t it?
Well I actually don’t know what is it about there …
Last edited by mommi on Sat Nov 01, 2003 5:38 pm; edited 1 time in total |
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Sat Nov 01, 2003 2:06 am |
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ben m
Joined: 15 Sep 2002
Posts: 337
Location: UK |
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Hi,
looks like theres a bit of confusion over step sequencers.
I won't give you an answer but for a really big hint look for Roland 808s,909s 303s etc and all will become clear!
Also, regarding the behaviour of audio and MIDI parts within a sequencer with regards to a tempo change- if you were to be asked this in the exam you would want to state that there will be no change whatsoever in the audio and that consequently that audio part would be running at the wrong tempo etc.
Do you want any additional information on anything else?
cheers,
ben m
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ben@audiocourses.com |
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Sat Nov 01, 2003 4:36 am |
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julesf
Joined: 31 Aug 2003
Posts: 58
Location: Southampton, UK |
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Nice to be up to date again,
tough week eh bunnies
MT Week 9
<b>01-What is a MIDI sequencer? </b>
A device that is capable of recording and playing back MIDI events. This may be hardware or software derived. Most quality sequencers have multiple I/O's and many facilities to edit and manipulate the MIDI data.
A Classic example of a hardware sequencer is the Roland MC50, which has 8 tracks of 16 channels and is capable of playing back 128 tracks of MIDI data with excellent timing. There is a built in disk drive to store and retrieve the data.
<b>02-What are the advantages of hardware sequencers?</b>
The main advantage of the hardware sequencer is timing stability. Other advantages are that they are very stable in operation and do not crash, that combined with the small size and portability makes the hardware sequencer a great tool for live work.
<b>03-What are the advantages of software sequencers? </b>
The main advantage of the software sequencer is the graphical display on the piano roll style editor.
This makes editing and MIDI event manipulation much easier.
<b>04-What is a piano roll editor?</b>
The piano roll editor is an on screen window that shows the MIDI events on screen laid out in a logical easy to view manor. The name stems from the old player pianos that automatically played from a pre-programmed roll of card with holes punched out to represent each note to be played on the grid. The display looks very much like one of the old program rolls. Notes can be edited by dragging them in the editor. Notes may also be moved to produce different notes and can be time stretched. This is useful for correcting mistakes in real-time played in parts. Velocity can be altered along with many other features. This ease of editing is lacking in hardware sequencers.
05-What is a 'drum map'?
MIDI events played in to the sequencer are displayed on a piano roll editor. The drum map is an editor that is used specifically for drum parts. A drum map may be generated to correspond with the drum layout of each drum module, synth, or sampler. This allows each line on the grid to represent the correct drum in the sound module. Hits can be programmed simply by placing a note in the correct position on the drum grid. As each drum is named the job of creating a drum part is very easy.
<b>06-What is usually seen in the 'arrange' window?</b>
The arrange window displays all of the audio, MIDI, and automation data in a graphical display. Editing to the data may also take place in the arrange window. Parts can be edited, cut and paste, and altered in almost any way to complete a production.
<b>07-What are Tempo/Meter maps? </b>
Tempo maps hold tempo information for the song. If the tempo is say 120bpm until bar No 65 and then there is a drop to 85bpm then this information will be recorded in the tempo map.
<b>08-What is the purpose of quantizing?</b>
Quantising allows automated tightening of sloppy timing. This is usually applied to a MIDI keyboard part that has been played in out of time. By setting the correct quantise value the notes that are out of time are moved forward or backward to become in time. The correct settings must be applied or the feel of the groove will be lost. In fact some say that quantising causes the piece to become too mechanical in it's sound. For this reason most quantising algorithms allow for the notation to be partially corrected and not to be 100% accurately corrected to allow the feel to sound human. There are usually many types of quantising to suit different styles and time signatures.
<b>09-What is Groove Quantizing and how does it work? </b>
Groove quantizing attempts to quantise with the feel that would be achieved by a human musician. It does this by not always moving every note to fall exactly in time. The groove quantise could follow a random pattern or a preset groove style.
<b>10-Explain Note On quantizing.</b>
Note on quantizing moves the beginning of the note to the nearest correct notation position as set be the quantize setting and leaves the end of the note where it is. This can cause problems as the note length is actually being altered.
<b>11-Explain Over Quantizing.</b>
Over quantizing move the entire note start and end to the nearest correct notation position set by the quantize setting.
<b>12-Explain Iterative Quantizing.</b>
Iterative quantizing moves the notes closer to the correct notation position set by the quantize setting. Notes may be moved or may be left depending on how close they were to the correct position and the settings of the iterative quantize. This gives a more human feel to the piece. The precision of the iterative quantize may be set according to requirements.
<b>13-What do quantize values such as 4,32,16T etc represent?</b>
These refer to the quantize definition: 1/4 note 1/32nd note 16th triplet note.
<b>14-What is the score editor and how does it display musical information? </b>
The score editor displays a midi recording in the traditional score style. The score may be printed out for musicians to work from.
<b>15-How, and using what protocol, may a Sequencer be synchronized to a multitrack recorder? </b>
The Multitrack tape machine may be striped with a form of SMPTE time code. The sequencer can be set to slave from the time code to stay in sync with the recorder, which is acting as the master.
<b>16-If you change the tempo of the song, what will happen to (a) the MIDI parts? (b) the Audio parts?</b>
The MIDI parts will change tempo to match the new tempo. The audio parts will play in the previous tempo and be out of sync.
<b>17-How does the application Recycle allow MIDI to control Audio parts?</b>
Recycle chops up the audio into smaller manageable chunks. These may be looped, time stretched and played on demand by MIDI event control.
<b>18-What is OMS? </b>
The "Open Music System" devised by Opcode.
<b>19-How does OMS simplify MIDI studio setups?</b>
OMS allows internal virtual MIDI ports and connections to patch your devices together and allows
access to the devices in a graphical way using the actual names of the devices.
<b>20-What's the difference between type 0 & 1 MIDI sequences?</b>
In Format 0 all channels are displayed as one track. In format 1 channels are displayed as individual tracks.
<b>21-Why are there 'virtual' MIDI ports available (i.e. Hubis Loopback)?</b>
Virtual MIDI ports allow virtual devices to connect together via software. You could have two MIDI applications open and allow MIDI data to pass between the software applications via virtual ports. Another good one is
Midi Ox.
<b>22-What is the 'rewire' protocol?</b>
Rewire allows multiple audio software applications to work together. The rewire protocol handles the virtual connection of the audio between such applications. Rewire allows up to 64 channels of audio to be shared between applications that support the protocol.
<b>23-What is the rocket networks protocol and how does it work?</b>
Rocket network was designed by Steinberg. Once you have registered and downloaded the rocket network software extension for you sequencer, you are able to log on to the rocket network server over the net and join a public project session. It is possible to download a project add your own parts and post it back. Another producer can then download the project and add his influence and parts to it. To use the private professional side of the server you must subscribe.
<b>24-What are step sequencers? </b>
Step sequencers are used for building sequences step by step. Instead of playing in a recorded part from a keyboard or other MIDI device, the notes or drum hits are literally enter step by step.Step sequencers lend themselves well to programming drum parts. It is simply to long winded and unnecessary to build say a piano part in this way when you can simply play in the part and edit it afterwards. If you do not drum or don't have trigger pads to play on then you will have to build the drum part beat by beat anyway. Once steps have been programmed to generate 2 or 4 bar drum sequences these can be looped to make the drum pattern. Then fills can be step sequenced where appropriate.
<b>25-Why are step sequencers usually more suitable for percussion & drum parts?</b>
Piano parts and alike can simply be played in and recorded in MIDI real time from the keyboard.
There is no real reason to step sequence these parts. Drum parts are different, often the entire song can have a drum track that is looped and has only a few variations and fills. It makes sense to step sequence these parts as it will not take long to complete a few bars and then loop them. Fills can be generated on as needed bases and added to the project. If you do not have trigger pads then step sequencing even if in the drum editor of a sequencer can be the way to go.
<b>26- Why are click tracks important functions in MIDI/Audio sequencers? </b>
If you wish to add MIDI parts after or before audio parts it is important to make sure that the song runs true to Tempo. If the song does not run true to the bars and beats of the song, then adding and editing MIDI afterwards will be very difficult and quantizing will be impossible.
<b>27-Why do many sequencers metronomes allow either Audio or MIDI clicks?</b>
Flexibility, sometimes the sequencer will be just used as an audio multitracker and no MIDI will be used at all.
Sometimes the sequencer will be used for MIDI only and no audio recorded. Having MIDI and audio Clicks allows the metronome to be used in all circumstances.
<b>28-How is MIDI data such as modulation and pan usually displayed in part editors?</b>
Usually at the bottom of the piano roll editor there is a window to display all other types of MIDI codes apart from the note events that are displayed in the piano roll editor. The window to display this data allows the type of data to be displayed to be selected normally from a list.
<b>29-How many times is master clock transmitted per quarter note? </b>
24 times per 1/4 note.
<b>30-What are the functions of the master and slave in any synchronization situation? </b>
The master is the controller for the sync and the slave is the controlled. The master sends out the time code information and the slave obeys and slaves to it. The protocols and parameters within the protocols must be the same for the master and slave for the system to work.
<b>31-What timing division does SPP (song position pointers) work on? </b>
16th beats
<b>32-What is MIDI Sync mode and what synchronization protocols does it accept? </b>
Midi sync mode is set for the slave device of MIDI devices that implement synchronization. The system uses MIDI Time code, or MIDI clock. Once this slave device is set to receive time code it will follow the master device and remain in sync with it.
<b>33-What is the primary difference between MIDI Time Code and MIDI Clock, and why is MTC more accurate?</b>MIDI clock does not contain information regarding the position in the song. This has to be sent separately using Song position pointer codes. The slave devices will only know the song position when the master is playing back or recording. MTC implements real-time addressing in HMSF hours minute's seconds frames and can keep the slave in sync even when fast forwarding or rewinding. MTC is a much better system to use for synchronization.
34-Define the basics of SMPTE?
SMPTE "Society of sound and motion picture engineers" is implemented in many different protocols. The synchronization is delivered as real-time HMSF information, so real time positioning is implemented when fast forwarding, playing, recording, or rewinding. As long as the master and slave support the same SMPTE protocols and frame rates the two (or more) devices will always stay in sync and follow one another when fast-forwarding and rewinding.
<b>35-What similarities are there between SMPTE and MTC?</b>
MTC is the MIDI implemented version of SMPTE.
<b>36-How does FSK work?</b>
Frequency shift keying uses a PWM square wave to control the synchronization there for it is a form of frequency modulation. The pulses get converted back to MIDI clock pulses that are used by the slave to sync to tempo.
<b>37-Does standard-FSK synchronization give any indication of song position? </b>
No indication of song position is implemented in standard FSK
<b>38-What improvements does Smart-FSK offer over standard FSK? </b>
It's smart! lol, and also contains real-time song position data in the code.
<b>39-If using FSK with analogue tape, why must the speed of the tape not change after recording the FSK timing information? </b>
If the speed of the tape changes the sequencer will go out of sync with the tape machine.
<b>40-What is the 'tempo master' and what is the 'transport master' within a MIDI synchronized setup? </b>
These are system command messages that look after timing and transport operations. The tempo master controls the tempo by using the MIDI clock signal, the Transport master is concerned with transport operations by sending start, stop and continue messages.
<b>41-What problems may arise from extensive use of controller data within a MIDI piece?</b>
Continuous controller messages cause extensive data transmission which can in some cases lead to a data overload and interfere with timing. Most sequencers have a utility to assess the CC controller messages and thin out the data to so as to allow good operation but avoid data overload. Unnecessary and continually repeated CC messages are removed.
<b>42-Name 2 different connection protocols for MIDI interfaces?</b>
MPU-401 and USB.
<b>43-Can tempo changes and time signature changes be made during a song within a sequencer? </b>
Yes this information will be held in the tempo map.
<b>44-What considerations must be made when using a software sequencer as part of a live show?</b>
The main issue is stability. A UPS is a must also the machine should run a stable O/S. and be dedicated to the task involved to avoid conflicts.
Cheers,
JUles |
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Sat Nov 01, 2003 6:10 am |
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indigojf
Joined: 03 Aug 2003
Posts: 12
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01-What is a MIDI sequencer?
A MIDI sequencer is a device that records MIDI performance data and stores it for playback and editing.
02-What are the advantages of hardware sequencers?
If you don't own a PC or you don't have resources to spare for MIDI sequencing, a hardware sequencer might be a good idea as it is a standalone MIDI sequencer, designed only for that purpose.
03-What are the advantages of software sequencers?
These may be cheaper if you've already got a PC good enough to run one. They provide all of the functions of hardware sequencers and sometimes much more, possibly incorporating audio elements as well.
04-What is a piano roll editor?
This is a style of editing window, named after the rolls used by player pianos because of the resemblance. On one side of the window is an upturned piano keyboard and to the right is an are that resembles a graph. A note is represented by a colored bar plotted in this graph area. The vertical axis representing pitch (as referenced by the keyboard to the left) and the horizontal axis represents length and is usually ruled with bars/measure lines.
05-What is a 'drum map'?
This is a graphical representation of the GM standard channel 10 percussion. Each note is a seperate percussion sound and a drum map makes it easier to remember which note is which instrumet by replacing the keyboard with the names of the isntrument that each note number will play.
06-What is usually seen in the 'arrange' window?
Horizontal bars, one for each track, representing parts of your performance. These could be sectioned off into phrases and deleted, copied and pasted, moved around, or edited in other ways.
07-What are Tempo/Meter maps?
Tempo maps represent tempo information for your song. If there are any tempo changes during the song they will show up in the tempo map. Meter maps are similar, but with the meter of the song. For example, if the meter changes from ¾ to 4/4, the meter map will show this.
08-What is the purpose of quantizing?
Quantising is a process in which sloppy notes are moved to be in more in time with the music. How far the notes are moved and which notes are being moved is up to the settings you use when quantising.
09-What is Groove Quantizing and how does it work?
This is quantising done with the intent to inject a certain rhythm into your data.
10-Explain Note On quantizing.
This is when notes are shifted so only their beginnings are in time and the length of the notes remains unchanged.
11-Explain Over Quantizing.
This is when both the beginning and end of the note are moved to be in time.
12-Explain Iterative Quantizing.
This is quantizing done with intent to leave the song with a somewhat more human feel than normal quantising. Notes are moved to be closer in time with the music, but remain slightly imperfect. Once again, how far the notes are adjusted and which notes are adjusted is determined by your settings.
13-What do quantize values such as 4,32,16T etc represent?
These are values that represent to which notes all others will be quantised. So, with these examples: 4 – All notes will be quantised to nearest quarter note. 32 – All notes will be quantised to nearest 32nd note. 16T – All notes will be quantised to nearest 16th triplet.
14-What is the score editor and how does it display musical information?
A score editor represents your MIDI data in a musical score (for each track) which can be printed.
15-How, and using what protocol, may a Sequencer be synchronised to a multitrack recorder?
You would stripe SMPTE time code onto the multitrack recorder and plug the output of that track into the sequencer's sync input.
16-If you change the tempo of the song, what will happen to (a) the MIDI parts? (b) the Audio parts?
The MIDI data will play at the new tempo (without pitch changes) and the audio part will not change at all.
17-How does the application Recycle allow MIDI to control Audio parts?
ReCycle splits audio into smaller segments that can be played at any tempo without pitch changes so it can be used with MIDI tempo changes.
18-What is OMS?
Open Music System, developed by Opcode.
19-How does OMS simplify MIDI studio setups?
It provides you with a visual representation of your MIDI setup, connections, patches, etc.
20-What's the difference between type 0 & 1 MIDI sequences?
Type 0 files contain all channel data in one track, whereas type 1 files contain channel data in seperate tracks.
21-Why are there 'virtual' MIDI ports available (i.e. Hubis Loopback)?
This is to send MIDI data from one piece of software to another.
22-What is the 'rewire' protocol?
ReWire was developed by Propellerhead software and is now found in most of their applications. It allows one piece of software to send or receive audio from another piece of software in real time.
23-What is the rocket networks protocol and how does it work?
Rocket Network is a means of providing a virtual studio that people can log into over the internet and work on projects together. There are some public collaborations, but the idea probably originally developed as a way to work with people who are far away from you, geographically.
24-What are step sequencers?
This is when, instead of recording parts and editing them afterwards, you construct a MIDI part from scratch in the sequencer, note by note.
25-Why are step sequencers usually more suitable for percussion & drum parts?
This is because drums are more easily sequenced that other instruments and are often repetitive, making it easy to utilize copy and paste. With complicated melodies, it's usually easier to record a performance and edit it afterwards if necessary.
26-Why are click tracks important functions in MIDI/Audio sequencers?
Click tracks are important because they keep everything in time. If your MIDI performance doesn't match up with the bars, it makes editing much more difficult.
27-Why do many sequencers metronomes allow either Audio or MIDI clicks?
For maximum flexibility. Some people may prefer an audio click, others MIDI.
28-How is MIDI data such as modulation and pan usually displayed in part editors?
In every sequencer I've ever used, you could access this type of data in the piano roll editor. There is a window underneath the piano roll that allows you select the type of data, like velocity, pan, etc. and represents the value with a vertical bar and numerical value (between 0 and 127).
29-How many times is master clock transmitted per quarter note?
24 times.
30-What are the functions of the master and slave in any synchronisation situation?
The master starts and stops playback and determines the tempo. The slave follows the timing information determined by the master, starting and stopping as it does.
31-What timing division does SPP (song position pointers) work on?
16ths.
32-What is MIDI Sync mode and what synchronisation protocols does it accept?
MIDI sync mode must be selected on the slave device of a master/slave sync relationship. Otherwise it would use its own internal clock. It accepts MIDI Time Code and MIDI Clock.
33-What is the primary difference between MIDI Time Code and MIDI Clock, and why is MTC more accurate?
MIDI Clock is a relative reference that operates in note divisions and MTC is like SMPTE, an absolute reference of time by hours, minutes, seconds, and frames. MIDI Clock does not keep track of the position in the song without use of SPP, but with MTC things are always synced no matter where you start playback.
34-Define the basics of SMPTE?
SMPTE stands for Society of Motion Pictures and Television Engineers. It was originally developed for video-editing and synchronizing soundtracks to film. SMPTE's timing data consists of hours, minutes, seconds, and frames, which can be varied to match different framerates used in different parts of the world (29.97 frames per second in the USA, 25 frames per second in Europe, etc). Once a master/slave are synchronized with SMPTE's longitudinal time code, they will remain synched if you start playback in the middle of a song, or if you fast forward or rewind.
35-What similiarities are there between SMPTE and MTC?
MTC uses SMPTE as its basis. MTC is just an adaptation of SMPTE to make it compatible with MIDI.
36-How does FSK work?
Frequency Shift Keying uses electronic pulses striped onto a spare track of a multitrack recorder. This track is outputted to a converter (converting the audio signals into data able to be read by MIDI devices) and the converter is plugged into the sync input of the slave device and it keeps that device synced to tape. This is a tempo-relative form of synchronization and is less accurate than SMPTE.
37-Does standard-FSK synchronisation give any indication of song position?
No. To keep the devices in sync you must always start playback from the beginning of the song.
38-What improvements does Smart-FSK offer over standard FSK?
Smart-FSK implements MIDI Song Position Pointers. This means that no matter where you start playback, the devices will stay in sync.
39-If using FSK with analogue tape, why must the speed of the tape not change after recording the FSK timing information?
If the tape speed changes, the frequencies of the electronic pulses will drift out of the range that the converter responds to and the machines will not sync anymore.
40-What is the 'tempo master' and what is the 'transport master' within a MIDI synchronised setup?
The tempo master is responsible for keeping the tempo synchronized between devices. The transport master is responsible for keeping playback commands such as Start, Stop, and Continue synchronized between devices.
41-What problems may arise from extensive use of controller data within a MIDI piece?
This can cause latency due to the large amount of data being sent and the nature of MIDI's serial connection.
42-Name 2 different connection protocols for MIDI interfaces?
USB and MPU-401
43-Can tempo changes and time signature changes be made during a song within a sequencer?
Yes.
44-What considerations must be made when using a software sequencer as part of a live show?
Here, you're mostly concerned with reliability and timing. If a live band/musician is meant to play along with the sequencer, they'll probably need a click track and some headphones. Either way, you want to make sure that the data, computer, and sequencer will operate without flaws (crashes, data corruption, etc) during the show. |
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Wed Nov 05, 2003 1:13 pm |
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ruiabreu
Joined: 15 Sep 2003
Posts: 12
Location: Portugal |
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Hello Ben,
I'm late as usual, by still it's done!
01-What is a MIDI sequencer?
It’s a hardware device or software that can be used to arrange a music piece using MIDI events. This is done using hardware or software MIDI sound modules. With a sequencer you can create sequences of notes with whatever pitch or duration. These sequences can be as long as you want and you can loop them. The notes of these music arrangements are recorded as events and not as audio files directly. These events trigger sounds from the MIDI sound modules.
02-What are the advantages of hardware sequencers?
Hardware sequencers do what they are supposed to do and nothing more. You don’t have the problems that may arise with software sequencers. These softwares rely on consumer computers and so if the computer has problems the software may have problems too.
03-What are the advantages of software sequencers?
The biggest advantage is the graphical display. Software sequencers show MIDI events as blocks that you can move back and forth. You can also edit note individually using the mouse in a drag-and-drop style. Software sequencers are more intuitive and music production is boosted. Other advantage is the upgradeability of the software.
04-What is a piano roll editor?
It’s an editing window used by software sequencers that present MIDI notes in a horizontal grid with a graphical representation of piano keys in the vertical. Notes are presented as blocks and the placement of these blocks indicate time and duration in the horizontal and pitch in the vertical. With this editor window you can move around notes individually.
05-What is a 'drum map'?
‘Drum map’ is a special type of piano roll editor. Instead of a piano roll on your left you have a list of the drum instruments you have at your disposal. Each line represents a drum instrument (snare, hi hat, ride, timbales, etc) and you can manually place an event of that instrument on the time line grid. Drum map is used instead of piano roll editor for drum and percussion because each key represents not a pitch note as on a piano for example but a singular drum instrument.
06-What is usually seen in the 'arrange' window?
A list of tracks. On the left of the ‘arrange’ window there is information of the track name, information on what instrument of a sound module or VST instrument this track plays along with the MIDI channel the track is assigned to. On the right side of this information there is a horizontal time line with the MIDI data that each track as associated with it. This MIDI data is represented in blocks of data.
07-What are Tempo/Meter maps?
Tempo/Meter map is a graphical representation of the tempo and meter settings along a song. If a song as the same tempo and meter settings along the song then tempo/meter map will be a straight horizontal line. If there are changes in tempo, sudden or gradual, the tempo map will depict a vertical line on the time place of the sudden change and a straight line going up and down according to the settings. Meter setting can only be changed at the beginning of a bar because it’s a bar only setting.
08-What is the purpose of quantizing?
When notes are played by real musicians there are usually inaccuracies. These inaccuracies can give a human feel to a performance but if they are very pronounced then it would feel like sloppy playing. Quantization is a process of aligning notes to bars and beats resulting in more precise timing.
09-What is Groove Quantizing and how does it work?
Groove Quantizing is a type of quantization. In this case quantization alignment is done according to a template of bars and beats that don’t have exact precise timing. This template usually mimics the fell of a human performance and adds to the MIDI data being quantized that human feel.
10- Explain Note On quantizing.
Note on quantization is a type of quantization in witch the note on message but not the note off message is quantized. This process changes the duration of the notes.
11-Explain Over Quantizing.
Over quantization happens when music is quantized too much. In this case music can become robotic in feel what may not be desirable.
12-Explain Iterative Quantizing.
It’s a type of quantization were notes being quantized are moved closer from their true values to the value they would have if full quantization was applied. You usually establish a percentage setting that indicates the percentage of approximation between true and full quantized value. For example if iterative quantization is set to 50 % then the notes would be moved to half way the distance the full quantization value.
13-What do quantize values such as 4, 32, 16T etc represent?
They represent the values to where the notes played are quantized to. In 4 it means the notes will be quantized on reference to the quarter note values. In 32 the notes will be quantized to the nearest 1/32s value. In 16T the notes played will be quantized to the nearest 1/16 triplet note.
14-What is the score editor and how does it display musical information?
Score editor is a type of display of MIDI data on a song. The score editor displays information in the form of standard musical notation.
15-How, and using what protocol, may a Sequencer be synchronised to a multitrack recorder?
By using MTC (MIDI time code). The multitrack recorder is stripped with SMTPE time code. This code is usually recorded on the highest track number. This procedure is similar for analogue and digital tape and standalone hard disk recorders. Then the output of the time code channel is connected to a device called synchronizer that translates the SMTPE code into MTC code that is feed to the sequencer. The sequencer understands MTC and locks to it. Now you have a synchronized system.
16-If you change the tempo of the song, what will happen to (a) the MIDI parts? (b) The Audio parts?
MIDI parts will change their timing according to tempo but audio parts don’t. Audio parts have an inherent timing associated with it and once recorded this is always the same. So if you record an audio part with MIDI parts an change the tempo of the song, the MIDI parts are changed but the audio parts stays the same.
17-How does the application Recycle allow MIDI to control Audio parts?
Recycle is a software that takes an audio part and chops it into smaller audio parts according to peak sensitivity. These smaller parts can be arrange as MIDI parts and thus can be quantized and aligned to bars and beats.
18-What is OMS?
Open Music System. It’s an application that provides a graphical interface of all MIDI connections, interfaces, soundcards and generally all devices in a MIDI system.
19-How does OMS simplify MIDI studio setups?
You can visualize your system and graphically perform any changes you may want on the OMS application.
20-What's the difference between type 0 & 1 MIDI sequences?
Type 0 MIDI sequences are midi files containing MIDI information on one track only although information can be assigned to up to 16 MIDI channels. Type 1 are MIDI files that may contain various tracks synchronized to each other.
21-Why are there 'virtual' MIDI ports available (i.e. Hubis Loopback)?
Nowadays there are lots of software that handle MIDI data. ‘Virtual’ MIDI ports are connections you can make between software using MIDI on the same computer.
22-What is the 'rewire' protocol?
‘Rewire’ protocol is a way of connecting different software that handle MIDI or audio tracks. For example you can have a central sequencer software and have connected to it tracks that come from a software drum machine using ‘rewire’ protocol. When you play the software sequencer the drum tracks of the software drum machine will be played in sync.
23-What is the rocket networks protocol and how does it work?
Rocket network protocol is used when you want to work in a project with other performers via the internet. This protocol allows exchange, via rocket specific serves, of MIDI or audio files. You need to use a software that supports this protocol (usually an audio sequencer), and you need to pay for it. This protocol is good when you want to have rapid exchange, although not yet real-time, of files. It’s also nice in that it works inside the software. Still you may simply exchange files for free using the internet, although not as user friendly, it’s cheaper.
24-What are step sequencers?
Step sequencers can built up music pieces by manually introducing notes, one by one, in a time sequential manner.
25-Why are step sequencers usually more suitable for percussion & drum parts?
Percussion & drum parts are usually repeated in regular intervals. Every so often the pattern change with addition of breaks but the overall structure is usually the same. Because of this it makes sense to record the part that is constantly repeated along the duration of the song as a loop. Step sequence is convenient in this case because you can easily make the sequence of the drum hits you want on the loop. Furthermore pitch isn’t an issue in this type of tracks since the drums don’t usually change in pitch (unless you want it to) and it’s one less problem you have to address when step sequencing. Having said this I still prefer to record the drum parts on a loop using a simple MIDI keyboard.
26-Why are click tracks important functions in MIDI/Audio sequencers?
Click tracks enable performance to be on time with the tempo you choose for that music. You just set the click track to the tempo you want and follow the track. With the music on tempo it’s easier to perform posterior editing.
27-Why do many sequencers metronomes allow either Audio or MIDI clicks?
Because when you are using MIDI clicks you’re exhausting MIDI resources. MIDI clicks are usually notes played on a MIDI channel assigned to a sound source module. These channels could be used for other musical tracks.
28-How is MIDI data such as modulation and pan usually displayed in part editors?
It’s usually displayed in arrange window on the bottom of the display. Usually there is a display of the notes as bars with height ranging from 0 to 127. You can choose what type of information these bars represent (modulation, pan, etc) on a field usually on the left down corner.
29-How many times is master clock transmitted per quarter note?
24 times.
30-What are the functions of the master and slave in any synchronisation situation?
Master transmits a type of time code information that is received by the slave. The slave will then use this information to sync to the master. This way the master sets the tempo of the song and the slave follows it.
31-What timing division does SPP (song position pointers) work on?
1/16 quarter notes (beats).
32-What is MIDI Sync mode and what synchronisation protocols does it accept?
When MIDI sync is enabled the MIDI slave is synchronized to the MIDI master. The slave can be synchronized to the master using MIDI internal clock and MTC time code protocol.
33-What is the primary difference between MIDI Time Code and MIDI Clock, and why is MTC more accurate?
MTC is derived from the SMTPE time code and uses hour:minute:second:frame type of notation. During a frame 4 quarter note messages are sent. After you set the frame rate you stay with it and usually don’t change it. For a frame rate of 20 fps the quarter note messages will be sent 120 per second. For MIDI clock, messages are sent 24 times per quarter note. Considering that the maximum BPM is usually 200, the maximum rate will be 80 MIDI clock messages per second. MTC (120 messages per second) is more accurate than MIDI clock (maximum 80 messages per second).
34-Define the basics of SMPTE?
SMTPE (Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers) is a time code used to synchronize film or video to a sound track. It relies on information transmitted by an audio signal with information being presented as hours:minutes:seconds:frames where frames are the individual still images on the film. SMTPE time code can have various frame rates depending on the type of film or video and on the continent. For film you have a 29.97 frame rate on the USA and in Europe you have 25 Fps.
35-What similarities are there between SMPTE and MTC?
They both represent time code s hours:minutes:seconds:frames but SMTPE is complemented with a clock pulse to maintain the timing and MTC isn’t.
36-How does FSK work?
FSK (frequency shift key) is a synchronizing method usually used in older machines that sends a tempo only sync signal. It doesn’t give any indication of location. Because of this it can only be synchronized with MIDI clock signals (also a tempo only sync signal). You can convert a MIDI clock signal to FSK signal using a special converter. This converter changes frequency from 1.5 to 2.5 kHz and vice-versa every time it receives a clock pulse. This signal with the respective frequency shifts are recorded on tape.
37-Does standard-FSK synchronization gives any indication of song position?
No. It’s just a tempo type of synchronization.
38-What improvements does Smart-FSK offer over standard FSK?
Smart-FSK has specific song position indicators every sixteen notes. It can thus be synced with MIDI clock and Song Position Pointers messages.
39- If using FSK with analogue tape, why must the speed of the tape not change after recording the FSK timing information?
Because, by increasing or decreasing tape speed, 1.5 and 2.5 kHz frequencies will change. As the converter can only handle those frequencies it may not be able to read the signals.
40-What is the 'tempo master' and what is the 'transport master' within a MIDI synchronised setup?
Tempo master is the machine that sets the tempo that is followed by the slave machines. Transport master is the device that performs the play, stop and continue tasks that are followed by the rest of the slave MIDI devices.
41-What problems may arise from extensive use of controller data within a MIDI piece?
Controller messages like pitch wheel or pan make intensive use of MIDI bandwidth. Because the MIDI is a serial protocol, there can be a delay in transmitted messages, not only controller messages but also all the other types of messages.
42-Name 2 different connection protocols for MIDI interfaces?
USB and Firewire.
43- Can tempo changes and time signature changes be made during a song within a sequencer?
Yes.
44-What considerations must be made when using a software sequencer as part of a live show?
The computer and the Operating System must be as stable as possible. The system should be in use for some time to survey the system for some problem and insure long term stability. You should have all the software sequencer instruments settings you are going to use recorded as a file of that software sequencer. I would create a file with tracks assigned to the instrument patches I would use for each song so that I would just change track when changing songs. The alternative is to have a file per song. |
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Thu Nov 06, 2003 11:22 pm |
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