DIGITAKT An Unofficial Reference for Elektron's Digitakt Drum and Sampler Module A Guidebook A Notebook A Reference Book OS 1.50
II The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide
The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide III Overview 1 Architecture 7 Pattern Basics 17 Patterns Advanced 45 Tracks 77 Samples & Sounds 95 Audio & Sampling 133 Filter, Amp & LFO 151 Effects & Master Out 167 MIDI & USB 179 System 215 Other Stuff 225 Contents 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
IV The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide
Elektron were born in Gothenburg, Sweden, a place famous for its canals and west coast seaport. With over 20 years of experience in creating unique musical instruments and effects modules Digitakt was released in 2017. While many of Elektron's instruments carry a steep learning curve Digitakt is a more modular and simpler device but retains the Elektron power and contains much of its DNA including the sequencer, trigs, parameter locks and a lot of the features that have become synonymous with Elektron. If you’re unclear of what these are then stay with us, all will become clear. So what is Digitakt? It says on the tin that it’s an 8- voice digital drum computer and sampler, or as Elektron call it, a beat making powerhouse. Actually it’s much more than this. It’s title, while covering several bases, does not completely tell the full story of the feature set and functionality of Digitakt. A Swiss army knife for the music maker would have been much more apt. It does of course act as a drum machine and a sampler but the sequencing power and especially the midi sequencing makes Digitakt a candidate for being the centre piece or hub of any studio or live set up. With up to 8 channels of midi output controlling external devices, oodles of sample memory storage and its ability to synthesize sounds, Digitakt is a true winner. The unit has 8 audio tracks plus 8 midi tracks, internal delay and reverb, 1GB of storage on the inbuilt +Drive, audio Input and Output, Midi In, Thru and Out, filter and overdrive per audio track, all contained within a small form factor. This guide offers you a reference and tips on getting the best from Digitakt. There are walkthroughs and instructions that will help both the newcomer and advanced users alike.There is designed-in space allocation for making your own notes and personalisation when using it in PDF editors. The design is intended to bring a comprehensive set of information and content alongside your own notes in an e-notebook format that supplements rather than replaces the official manual. Overview The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 1 1
2 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 1 Overview 1.1 How to Use This Notebook This book combines a formal reference with your own notes and comments, collectively bringing together a comprehensive guide to Digitakt. Sections are laid out to cover the full workflow with walkthroughs, step by step guides and tips. Some pages carry a wide margin and some are intentionally blank enabling you to make your own notes on the specific topics covered. (CONTROL) Rounded parentheses represent the context sensitive, rotary DATA ENTRY controls labelled A-H or any other rotary which is indicated by its name i.e. (LEVEL) for the Level/Data control. [FUNC] Square Parentheses contain functions that are selectable by a specifically defined button. [FUNC] + [COPY] Functions which require multiple button selections simultaneously are shown with a + Symbol between each button. Some keys are represented by a symbol on Digitakt for the specific function, for example the Song, Global Settings, Sampling, Tempo, and transport controls are marked with unique symbols. When referring to these buttons the same square parentheses convention applies with the text name within i.e. [PLAY], [STOP], [SETTINGS] etc Keys / Buttons 1-16 will be indicated purely by the respective Trig / Track number i.e. [1], [2] … [16] and will normally be preceded by the current context i.e. Trig, Track etc [SONG] Song Mode Menu [SETTINGS] Global Settings [SAMPLER] Sampler Recording Page [TEMPO] Tempo and Metronome Settings Your Notes Can be written here Here Did you know? SidStation was Elektron’s first synth release in 1999 and was based on the Commodore 64 home computers processor NOTES
B A On / Off Switch 12V DC Power Input. Hi Speed USB 2.0 Type B 5 Pin MIDI DIN In, Out - Sync A, Thru - Sync B (Sync, Din 24 or 48) ¼ Inch Audio Out Balanced, Audio In and Stereo Headphones Overview1 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 3 215mm 176 mm 63 mm
4 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide Master Volume Adjusts the Audio Output and Headphone levels Secondary Function Accesses the secondary ‘orange’ function by holding [FUNC] plus chosen button together Pattern Select Selects the respective patterns 1-16 when holding [PTN] + [TRIG] 1-16. [FUNC] + [PTN] Selects Metronome Options Level / Data Adjusts the selected track level. [FUNC] + (LEVEL/DATA) Scrolls the sound browser menu Track Hold along with the a Trig button to select the track. Secondary function [FUNC]+[TRK] accesses the chromatic mode - orange lit Bank Select Selects the respective Bank A-H when holding [BANK] + [TRIG] 9-16. [FUNC] + [BANK] Selects Mute Mode Song Mode Opens the song mode menu. [FUNC] + [SONG] opens the Import & Export Menu Global Settings Opens the global settings and project management options. [FUNC] + [SETTINGS] Saves current project Sampling Opens the sampling settings. [FUNC] + [SAMPLING] selects the ‘Direct Sampling’ Function Tempo Opens the tempo menu. Use [FUNC] + [Tempo] for setting Tap Tempo Sequencer Transport Modes & Controls [REC] Grid Recording Mode - On/Off [REC] + [PLAY] Live Recording Mode [REC] + tap [PLAY] + tap [PLAY] Live Quantize. [REC] + [STOP] Step recording mode. [PLAY] Starts the sequencer running. [STOP] Stops the sequencer playback. [FUNC] + [REC] for Copy function [FUNC] + [STOP] Pastes the copied item [FUNC] + [PLAY] for Clear function OLED Display 128 x 64 Pixel, context sensitive screen Rear I/O Connections MIDI and Audio inputs and outputs , power connector and On/Off Button 1 Overview
The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 5 Trig Parameters [TRIG] Access to the trig menu. [FUNC]+[TRIG] to access quantize menu Source Settings Selects the Source for Sample playback (Audio Tracks) and MIDI settings (MIDI Tracks). [FUNC] + [SRC] for Machine Assignment Filter Parameters Opens the two filter parameters (Audio Tracks) and Midi CC Value Parameters (MIDI Tracks). [FUNC] + [FLTR] for Delay Parameters Amp Settings Opens the amplitude and effect send settings (Audio Tracks) and Midi CC Select (MIDI Tracks). [FUNC] + [AMP] for Reverb Parameters LFO Settings Access to the the low frequency oscillators for the selected track. [FUNC] + [LFO] for Master Output parameters Yes Selects the current value and menu during navigation. [FUNC]+[YES] Temporary saves active pattern No Exits or Cancels or backs up from the current value or menu during navigation. [FUNC]+[NO] Temporary reloads active pattern Page Selects the active pattern page. Lit LED indicates pattern pages, flashing LED indicates the current track that is being played. FUNC]+[PAGE] Scale Menu and also Fill Function Navigation Controls [UP] [DOWN] [LEFT] [RIGHT] Navigation. In Chromatic mode [UP][DOWN] transpose Octave In Grid Recording Mode: Micro Timing using Trig Key + [LEFT] [RIGHT] Retrig Menu with Trig Key + [UP] [DOWN] Data Entry Controls 8 Endless Rotaries A-H Adjust the parameter aligned with context specific function on the display. Press and Turn for greater incremental changes. Trig Keys 1-16 Selects Audio (1-8) and MIDI (9-16) tracks [TRK] Selects Banks [BANK] and Patterns [PTN] Sets the note trigs and parameter locks (with data entry control). Mutes tracks and notes and also is the chromatic keyboard. Overview1
6 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES
Elektron’s devices have a familiar feel between its different instrument and effect devices. Under the hood of the Digitakt is a powerful memory structure enabling access to many sounds and samples. Digitakt contains a 1GB +Drive, a non-volatile storage device which holds up to 128 projects, saved sounds and the sample bank. The RAM is where the realtime action occurs and Digitakt hosts 64MB of sample memory. Each project contains up to 128 sounds. Patterns are the fundamental building block of the Digitakt and hosts its sounds. Eight banks each contain up to 16 patterns with each pattern containing up to 8 Sounds, each contained within one of the eight audio tracks. Digitakt has a built in screen saver with 60 minute timer. Understanding the architecture and structure of Digitakt is important in adopting a good workflow. This section describes the structure and architecture of projects, audio configuration and midi set up. Understanding the key functions and terminology is also important in working with Digitakt (and in fact most of Elektron’s Devices). This section gives out the definitions of the terms that are important. One final thing to point out is that the functionality of the buttons and keys are very sensitive. The normal working practice is to ‘quick tap’ the keys for normal selection i.e. selecting the metronome settings page. However some options need a longer key press. Setting the metronome on and off for example requires the keys [FUNC] + [PTN] to be held for 1 second. Therefore we advise paying attention to any specific instructions on where to ‘press’ (tap) and where to press and hold. Understanding these guidelines, definitions and the overall structure sets the platform for getting to know the foundations of Digitakt and helps in developing your own more advanced workflows and ultimately getting the best out of this excellent machine. Architecture The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 7 2
8 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 2.1 Glossary of Terms While you may think this should be hidden at the back of this book, understanding the terminology applied in ‘Elektron World’ is a big step in understanding Digitakt power and performance. It makes sense to become familiar with the essential terms to help embed full functionality into your workflow 2 Architecture +Drive: Digitakt’s main integrated memory storage device containing up to 2048 sounds within the 1GB capacity storage available to all projects. Class Compliance: Refers to USB compatibility of devices to allow MIDI and Audio over USB. Conditional Locks: Applies specific rules on how and if a Trig will operate. Considered pre-requisite criteria for the step to operate Digitakt: A wonderful box full of musical magic called an 8 Voice digital drum computer & sampler Elektron: The designer and manufacturer of Digitakt and many other great audio products. Kit: A Kit is a set of 8 Audio tracks and the level settings of each. Assembled as 1 Kit per pattern. Lock Trig: Activates a defined parameter change on a sequence step without triggering the note i.e. Filter change. Machine: An audio engine which applies different characteristics and features to the control and playback of samples. MIDI Track: While the audio sounds and parameters come through the 8 Audio tracks, Digitakt can control external MIDI devices from 8 MIDI tracks with the 5 Pin MIDI or USB connection. Mute Mode: Modes in which variations can be created by silencing the play out of tracks and patterns for sound design and especially when playing live. This brings a lot of creative power in using Digitakt. Note Trig: Triggers a specific note sound or midi note on the selected track step. For example when setting sequence patterns Overbridge: Specific Elektron software utility which enables the communication between Elektron hardware and its digital VST ‘twin’ operating on a PC / Mac based DAW. Parameter: The setting of specific functions and control elements that can be adjusted to affect a sound or operation Parameter Lock: Is where a unique parameter setting is applied to one or more Trigs for example a pitch setting for note trigs in order to develop a melody sequence. Pattern: This is the backbone and core of Digitakt. Each pattern stores the sequence of sounds and trigs, parameter locks, BPM and everything associated with each pattern. Project: The overall pattern container which includes general settings, all banks and pattern slots. Sample: The basic raw audio sample. In Digitakt this is a 16bit, 48Hz, Mono sample. Song: A chain of patterns assembled and played out as a full arrangement. Sound: A Sound is the sample plus all the audio track settings specific to that sound. Sound Lock: Sets an individual sounds from the sound pool for each step on the same track, allowing different sounds to be used on different steps of the sequence Sound Pool: Memory set aside for each independent project which contains sounds i.e. sample plus features. Track: Digitakt contains 8 Audio tracks for triggering samples and sounds and 8 Midi tracks for controlling external devices Trig: A term used to describe the trigger / activation of notes or parameter changes for a selected step or note in a sequence
2.2 Project Structure Architecture2 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 9 NOTES Project 1 Project 2 3 128 +Drive Project 1 Project 128 Sound Pool Sound Pool Pattern 12 Track 1 Track 8 Kit Sound Sample 8 Banks each with 16 pattern slots 16 patterns per bank Contains Trigs, Parameter Locks, BPM, Length, Swing, Time Sig and MIDI Settings Collection of 8 Audio Tracks and Level Settings Audio Sample plus track SRC,FLTR,AMP,LFO Settings Raw Audio Sample. 127 Sample slots, max 64MB - 11 Min per project 2048 Sounds, 256 per Bank stored internally on the 1GB +Drive 128 Projects stored on the +Drive 128 Sounds available in Digitakt memory for each individual project Only sounds in the project sound pool can be sound locked A E B F C G D H A E B F C G D H Audio Tracks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 +DRIVE System Level Sound Pool Project Level - 128 Sounds per Project Bank Sound Manager Transfers between +Drive & Sound Pool Max 128 projects stored on +Drive
10 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 2.3 Audio Structure Sample Engine Machine Voice 1 Overdrive Multimode Filter Sample Rate Reduction Base - Width Filter Delay Delay Delay Reverb Reverb MIXER Pan Compressor L R OUTPUT AMP Envelope AHD ADSR Filter Envelope LFO1 Modulation LFO2 Modulation Sends Settings Page Shown in Orange SETTINGS > AUDIO ROUTING to manage routing set up SRC AMP AMP AMP AMP AMP Reverb Master (Page 2) Master (Page 1) Delay AMP FLTR FLTR FLTR FLTR LFO LFO Effects Sends Effects Return Voice 1 Voice 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 AMP 2 Architecture
The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 11 2.4 Midi Structure Project 1 Project 2 3 128 Pattern 12 Track 10 Kit Midi Tracks Chord / Notes CC 1 CC 5 CC 2 CC 6 CC 3 CC 7 CC 4 CC 8 8 Banks each with 16 pattern slots Max 128 projects stored on +Drive 16 patterns per bank Contains Trigs, Parameter Locks, BPM, Length, Swing, Time Sig and MIDI Settings Each Midi Track can control chords up to 4 notes 8 Midi CC assignable parameters 5 Pin and USB MIDI In / Out for control and communications with external midi compliant gear 8 Midi tracks operate with similar functionality to audio tracks Velocity Pitch Bend Length Aftertouch etc A E B F C G D H A E B F C G D H 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16Bank NOTES Architecture2
12 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 2.5 Menu & Parameter Navigation The Digitakt display is context sensitive meaning the pages change to match whatever function is selected to match the associated parameter set. There are however some style and layout conventions that apply across the device. 8 Data entry rotaries are relative to the context of the display parameter positions A-H DATA ENTRY Adjust the relative data entry rotary control to change the associated parameter eg Turn (F) Press and Hold the data entry control while turning to adjust in larger increments eg Press + Turn (F) Press the data entry control and the NO button to reset the value eg Press (F) + [NO] To reset ALL parameters on specific function page press the Parameter Button and press Play eg [SRC]+[PLAY] also for TRIG, FLTR, AMP & LFO Hold any Parameter key (TRIG, SRC, FLTR, AMP, LFO) to see the associated current parameter settings FUNC Pressing Func while adjusting some parameters enables ‘jump’ selection between values rather than a seamless step through sequential values eg [FUNC] + Delay Time . [FUNC] + Orange Titled Option selects that function almost like a Shift Option. TRK Pressing TRK while adjusting parameters will change the value across ALL tracks eg [TRK] + (H) Where H = Sample Level in the SRC settings Menu Navigation Use the Up, Down, Left and Right Arrows to navigate in some menu structures. The Yes / No buttons confirm or cancel. Note: The [LEVEL/DATA] i.e. Level / Data rotary also scrolls through menu selections A B C D E F G H Currently Selected BANK A-H and Pattern Number 1-16 Track Type SMP for Audio Sample Track or MID for Midi Track Current Track Number Track Level Current Pattern Name. Also this area displays the parameter change during editing Current Tempo Setting in Beats per Minute 2 Architecture
The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 13 Maximum number of characters in the name is 16. The Copy, Paste and Clear functions using the secondary key options [FUNC] + [REC] for Copy, [FUNC] + [PLAY] for Clear and [FUNC] + [STOP] for Paste are also available within the naming menu. 2.6 Naming Menu Some functions have the option to name or rename, for example when saving a pattern. These menus are selected or appear when the naming or renaming of a pattern, sound etc is required. [LEFT] & [RIGHT] navigate between the current characters [UP] & [DOWN] or (LEVEL/DATA) to select character [FUNC] + [NO] Erase Character [FUNC] + [YES] Insert Space POP UP NAMING MENU Hold [FUNC] for Pop Up mode. While holding, navigate to highlight character required. Release [FUNC] to Insert character Architecture2
14 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 2.7 Project Management A project is the highest order element in the data structure hierarchy and contains 128 patterns stored in 8 Banks of 16. Digitakt also has a preloaded project number 001 containing presets. The active project is always reloaded on start up. ▌ LOADING A PROJECT 1. Select the GLOBAL SETTINGS option [SETTINGS] 2. Select PROJECT and press [YES] 3. Highlight the LOAD PROJECT Option using the (LEVEL/DATA) or [UP] [DOWN] Keys, then press [YES] 4. The Project list opens and scroll to highlight the selected project to load and press [YES] 5. Option to save currently active project may appear. Press [YES] to select save. Projects may be lost if not saved when loading a new project. ▌ CREATING A NEW PROJECT 1. Select the GLOBAL SETTINGS option [SETTINGS] 2. Select PROJECT and press [YES] 3. Highlight the LOAD PROJECT Option using the (LEVEL/DATA) or [UP] [DOWN] Keys, then press [YES] 4. The Project list opens and scroll to highlight the CREATE NEW option in the list and press [YES] 5. New project will be loaded ▌ QUICK SAVING OF A PROJECT 1. Press [FUNC] + [SETTINGS] to Save Project. Name if this is first save 2. Select [YES] to save Patterns and Project or [NO] to cancel NOTES 2 Architecture
The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 15 ▌ SAVING A PROJECT AS 1. Press [SETTINGS] to select GLOBAL SETTINGS 2. Select PROJECT and press [YES] 3. Highlight SAVE PROJECT AS option and press [YES] to save 4. Project list opens and select an empty slot where the project will be saved. 5. A new open slot will open the project naming function. Set the new name and press [YES] to save ▌ MANAGING PROJECTS 1. Select the GLOBAL SETTINGS option [SETTINGS] 2. Select PROJECT and press [YES] 3. Highlight MANAGE PROJECTS using the (LEVEL/DATA) or [UP] [DOWN] Keys and press [YES] 4. The Project list opens and select one or more projects to manage. Projects selected are checked. 5. Press [RIGHT] to open the Project Manager options. 6. Select the option required: • CLEAR: Clears the selected project and resets. • DELETE: Removes and deletes projects from selected slots • RENAME: Opens renaming screen. Only when a single project is selected. • LOAD FROM: Loads selected project and overwrites active project • TOGGLE: Switches write protection on or off. • INIT: Initialises and empty slot. 7. Press [YES] to confirm or [NO] to cancel NOTES Architecture2
16 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES
Patterns are at the heart of Digitakt and these are arranged within its powerful sequencer and its associated feature set. The sequencer organises and controls patterns to form rhythms and develop evolving sounds and arrangements. Pattern sequencing is a notable function that seems to be central to most Elektron devices. While it is important to get to know the components within a pattern it is arguably better to understand the overall sequencing concept and its practical nature before delving deeper. This section therefore provides the basics in building patterns and offers a quick start to using Digitakt sequencing before diving deeper into the workflow and before discussing the finer details of the sub elements and functions. It is important to know that patterns and the sequencer are inextricably linked. A sequence is in fact the formation of steps into a pattern and Digitakt’s sequencer is the tool for managing this functionality. Add to this the power of the Digitakt’s Trig options including trig locks, parameter locks, micro tuning and the power is there for all to see. Getting to know the elements that quickly get things up and running with patterns is the main objective of this section leaving the advanced features till later. As always the sections offer space and placeholders for your own notes and comments. Pattern Basics 3 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 17
18 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 3 Pattern Basics 3.1 Workflow Overview - Audio Sequence The sequence workflow requires the creation and assembly of sounds into a series of steps to form a melody or drum sequence. Presets can be loaded to achieve this or sounds sampled and kits created from scratch. NOTES S E 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Record / Sample Audio In BASIC ADVANCED Edit Audio for Individual Sounds Assign Sound to a Track Build Tracks Into a Kit Set the Tempo: [TEMPO] Select Track to Sequence: [1] - [8] Listen to Playback: [PLAY] Listen to Playback: [PLAY] Select Next Track to Sequence: [TRK] + [1] - [8] Add effects..............+ Parameter Locks, Trig conditions, swing etc Temporarily Save Sequence Pattern: [FUNC] + [YES] Save Sequence Pattern to Project: [SETTINGS] Menu > PATTERN; > Save to Project. A pattern contains; settings as stated in TRIG, SRC (including sample selected), FLTR, AMP, LFO, DELAY, REVERB and MASTER Pages, track note and lock trigs, parameter, sound and sample locks, quantize settings, time signature and length settings of tracks. Pattern chains are not stored in Digitakt and will be lost when changing patterns. Set Master Output: [FUNC] + [LFO] Select GRID Recording Mode: [REC] Select Bank: [BANK] + [A]...[H] i.e. Key 9-16 Select Sound: [FUNC] + (LEVEL/DATA) Select LIVE Recording Mode: [REC] + [PLAY] Create Pattern by Selecting Trig Steps: [1]...[16] Select Pattern: [1]...[16] Create Pattern by Playing Tracks Live to Set Trig Steps: [1]...[16] Create Extended Pattern by Selecting Trig Steps: [17]...[64] Extend length: [FUNC] + [PAGE] & [PAGE]...[PAGE]
Pattern Basics3 3.2 Getting Started with Sequencing While Sounds are fundamental building blocks these will be discussed later in detail. Saved sounds and kits either previously created or presets will be used in the workflow examples in this section. ▌SELECTING A PRESET / SAVED PATTERN 1. Select a Bank by pressing [BANK] then press trig key [9] - [16] to select a bank A to H (Labelled MIDI A To MIDI B). 2. Select the desired Pattern within the chosen bank by pressing [1] To [16]. The display prompts after selecting the bank. 3. To select a new or to change the pattern within the currently selected bank; Press [PTN] + [1] … [16] 4. A 4 Second countdown timer to allow pattern to be selected shows on the display after pressing [PTN] and [BANK] 1 2 WHITE Indicates a pattern exists in this trig location UNLIT Indicates no pattern exists in these trig location RED Indicates the current selected pattern NOTES The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 19
20 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide ▌PLAYING A PATTERN NOTES 1. Press [PLAY] - Key is lit Green ▌STOPPING A PATTERN 1. Press [STOP] to stop playback and allow fades of effects 2. Press [STOP] & [STOP] to stop playback and cut off effects. ▌PAUSING A PATTERN 1. Press [PLAY] to pause during playback. Play (green) and Stop (white) both are lit. 2. Press [PLAY] again to continue. ▌CHANGING A PATTERN DURING PLAYBACK 1. Select a new pattern within the currently selected bank; Press [PTN] + [1] … [16] (or select from another [BANK] and Pattern [1]...[16] while the sequence if playing. 2. The pattern will be queued until the existing sequence is completed. This countdown is indicated in the top left of the display by the flashing Bank / Pattern indicator. Bank / Pattern indicator Flashes between current and new (queued) pattern pending change at the end of the current sequence 3 Pattern Basics
Orange Lit page contains a pattern Per Pattern All tracks share same length and time signature Per Track Tracks can be assigned individual step lengths and scales [PAGE] Cycles through and selects the active page of the available pages [FUNC] + [PAGE] Selects the Scale settings and [FUNC] + [YES] to toggle between length modes. LENGTH: Use rotary (E), [UP] [DOWN] or [FUNC] + [UP] [DOWN] for snap changes or press trigs to adjust the length of the pattern. Also press [PAGE] for changes in steps of 16. 1st Number is the actual number of steps. 2nd number the total steps 16, 32, 48, 64. SCALE: Rotary (F) to adjust the time signature scale. This is the multiplier to the tempo of the pattern. LENGTH: Rotary (E), [UP] [DOWN] or [FUNC] + [UP] [DOWN] for snap changes or press trigs to adjust the length of the pattern. Also press [PAGE] for changes in steps of 16. 1st Number is the number of steps. 2nd number the total steps 16, 32, 48, 64. SCALE: Rotary (F) to adjust the track time signature scale. This is the multiplier to the tempo of the pattern. M.LEN: Rotary (H) to set the number of steps this track will play before all the tracks restarts or starts the next in the chain. Also will loop infinitely with INF setting CH.LEN: Rotary (G) to set the the duration of the current pattern will play before the next pending (cued or chained) pattern starts. Overrides M.LEN. Bright Orange Flash pattern page being played Dark / Unlit no pattern on this page Dark / Unlit no pattern on this page 3.3 Length, Scale and Timing Digitakt has a Maximum of 64 steps mapped over 4 Pages, each containing 16 steps. The steps are essentially set by Trigs using the 16 Trig keys, one for each step and a pattern per audio and/or midi track. Extending pattern lengths also copies the existing pattern to the new page. 1 16 32 48 64 Page 1 Trk 1 Trk 5 Trk 3 Trk 7 Trk 2 Trk 6 Trk 4 Trk 8 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 1:4 2:4 3:4 4:4 + PATTERN TRK.1 PATTERN LENGTH LENGTH (E) (E) SCALE SCALE CH.LEN M.LEN (F) (F) (G) (H) The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 21 Pattern Basics3
22 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide ▌SETTING PER PATTERN OR PER TRACK LENGTH NOTES 1. Press [FUNC] + [PAGE] to select the Scale Page. Use [FUNC] + [YES] if needed to toggle between ‘Per Pattern’ and ‘Per Track’ modes. 2. Turn rotary control (E) or use [UP] or [DOWN] button In either mode to set the number of active steps. Total step number (right digit) changes in 16 step iterations. Press while turning (E) For larger increments. ▌QUICK CHANGE OF TOTAL PATTERN OR TRACK LENGTH 1. Press [FUNC] + [PAGE] to select the Scale Page. Use [FUNC] + [YES] if needed to toggle between ‘Per Pattern’ and ‘Per Track’ modes. 2. Press [PAGE] to cycle in full page (16 step) increments. The existing page pattern is copied to new page. ▌QUICK CHANGE OF PATTERN OR TRACK STEPS 1. Press [FUNC] + [PAGE] to select the Scale Page. Use [FUNC] + [YES] if needed to toggle between ‘Per Pattern’ and ‘Per Track’ modes. 2. Press Trig [1] … [16] to select up to the 16 steps of the current page. ▌SETTING TIME SIGNATURE SCALE OF THE PATTERN OR TRACK 1. Press [FUNC] + [PAGE] to select the Scale Page. Use [FUNC] + [YES] if needed to toggle between ‘Per Pattern’ and ‘Per Track’ modes. 2. Turn rotary data control (F) to adjust the setting. Available options are:- 1/8x 1/4x 1/2x 3/4x 1x 3/2x 2x All as a Multiplier of the active Tempo. ▌CONTROLLING THE PATTERN LENGTH 1. Press [FUNC] + [PAGE] to select the Scale Page. Use [FUNC] + [YES] if needed to toggle to ‘Per Pattern’ mode. 2. Turn data control (G) to adjust the CH.LEN to set how long active pattern plays before a cued or chained pattern begins 3. Turn data control (H) to adjust M.LEN to set how many steps the active pattern plays before all tracks restart. CH.LEN Takes precedence. 3 Pattern Basics
3.4 Tempo & Metronome Digitakt has 2 Tempo modes; Pattern mode (default) which allows individual tempo settings per pattern and Global mode which sets the overall, all tracks, tempo setting. The tempo range is between 30-300 BPM. ▌SETTING THE TEMPO 1. Press [TEMPO] to select the tempo page. 2. Use [FUNC] + [YES] if needed to toggle between pattern and global tempo modes. 3. Turn rotary data control (LEVEL/DATA) - Level/Data - to adjust in 1 BPM steps or Press and turn for larger increments of +/-4 4. Use [UP] or [DOWN] button In either mode to adjust in 0.1 BPM steps 5. [TEMPO] Button flashes red in time with the selected tempo rate. ▌SETTING TAP TEMPO 1. Press [TEMPO] to select the tempo page. 2. Tap [FUNC] + [TEMPO] a minimum of 4 taps 3. Tempo will adjust to the new tap tempo average. ▌MANUALLY NUDGING TEMPO TEMPORARILY 1. In any mode, Press & Hold [LEFT] to reduce tempo by 10% 2. In any mode, Press & Hold [RIGHT] to increase tempo by 10% 3. Release [LEFT] or [RIGHT] Key to return to original tempo value ▌QUICK SELECTION OF METRONOME ON/OFF 1. Press & Hold [FUNC] + [PTN] for 1 Second to toggle ON. 2. Press & Hold [FUNC] + [PTN] for 1 Second to toggle OFF. 3. The display will temporarily show status change in the screen top title. NOTES The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 23 Pattern Basics3
24 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide ▌SELECTING METRONOME OPTIONS 1. Press [FUNC] + [PTN] quickly. 2. The Metronome settings page appears 3. Turn Data entry controls to adjust settings: - (E) - Switch Metronome On/Off - (F) - Set Time Signature of Metronome - (G) - Pre Roll length prior to start - (H) - Metronome Click Volume NOTES ACTIVE Use rotary (E) to set metronome On or OFF. Also hold [FUNC]+[PTN] for 1 sec. TIME SIGNATURE Use rotary (F) to control the note and measure of the metronome PREROLL BARS Use rotary (G) to set the number of bars that will play prior to the sequencer start in Live Mode only. Off, 1-16 VOLUME Use rotary (H) to set the level of the metronome click 0-127 METRONOME ACTIVE (E) VOL PREROLL BARS TIME SIG (F) (G) (H) 3 Pattern Basics
3.5 Basic pattern creation using note trigs. Digitakt has many powerful features that combine to create a Pattern. The basic set up will require the arrangement of steps within grid, step or live recording mode and setting trigs to activate notes and associated parameters. This section concentrates on the initial process of building arrangements with Note Trigs Three recording modes for creating and programming patterns are available. Grid Recording mode allows steps to be manually selected at locations throughout the static sequence. Live recording mode enables tracks to be played live individually or chromatically and the natural note positioning is recorded. Step recording automates adding steps into a static sequence, advancing the position dynamically. Trig selections are at a fixed velocity of 100. GRID RECORDING • Select using [REC]. • REC button illuminates red. • Manually select the desired steps to set the pattern trigs at the required location. • Ideal for fixed step patterns such as Kick and Snare. LIVE RECORDING • Select by holding [REC] then press [PLAY]. • REC button flashes red and PLAY is green. • Play live / real time to set trig steps. • Notes can also be played in chromatic mode. • Ideal for natural rhythms such as hats and shakers. STEP RECORDING • Select by pressing [REC] plus [STOP]. • REC button double flashes red in step rec mode. • Manually select the desired steps to set the pattern trigs at the required location. • Sequence position automatically advances. • Standard and Jump (LEN determines step length) modes. Flash Play Double Flash + + RECORDING MODES An event can trigger either an audio sample / sound or MIDI notes TRIG Parameters Note, Velocity, Length, Condition etc Note trigs are indicated RED on the Trig keys. Unlit keys contain no trigs Trig keys are used for multiple modes. In this illustration they set and trigger notes within patterns. They are also used to select audio and midi tracks and are used for bank and pattern selection NOTE TRIG An event set at a defined step in the sequencer that triggers note information and that, combined with others, is arranged to form a pattern 1 16 Trk 1 4 4 note The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 25 Pattern Basics3
26 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 3.6 Grid Recording Basics. The basic and simplest method of recording trigs into steps of a pattern is grid recording mode. ▌PROGRAMMING A PATTERN IN GRID RECORDING MODE 1. Select track to record by selecting trig [1] ...[8] for audio and [9] … [16] for MIDI. Example: Select Kick, Track 1 2. Select GRID RECORDING mode by pressing [REC]. The REC Key will turn red to indicate grid recording mode is active. 3. Select the desired Trig keys for the steps required for each selected track. Example: Kick on the beat, steps 1,5,9,13. Active steps lit red. 4. Change pages to access steps 17 - 64 using [PAGE] button if the set pattern length allows 5. To check the active track during grid recording hold [TRK]. The active track is indicated in Red. 6. To change active tracks during grid recording press [TRK] + [1] … [16] ▌REMOVING TRIGS IN A PATTERN IN GRID RECORDING MODE 1. Select GRID RECORDING mode [REC] 2. Press the desired step to remove by quickly pressing Trig [1] … [16]. The red status goes off. ▌SETTING NOTE VALUE OF TRIG IN GRID RECORDING MODE 1. Select GRID RECORDING mode [REC] 2. Select [TRIG] Parameter page 3. Hold the desired step Trig [1] … [16] 4. While holding the trig key turn data control (A) to set the new note value. Press and turn (A) for larger incremental changes. 5. The parameter on display will change to bold yellow to indicate a Change from its default value exists and a parameter lock is in place. Release the trig key. NOTES 3 Pattern Basics
3.7 Live Recording Basics. Live recording enable the capturing of more dynamic and natural rhythms and note melodies, operating in real time when the sequence us running.. ▌RECORDING A PATTERN IN LIVE RECORDING MODE 1. Select LIVE RECORDING mode by holding [REC] + [PLAY]. 2. The sequence will start and the REC Key will flash red and the PLAY key will be lit green to indicate live recording mode is active. 3. Play live the desired track key to record steps. Example: Playing [6] triggers and records Track 6 4. Press [STOP] to stop recording and playback. Pressing [PLAY] will stop recording but continue to play. ▌RECORDING A QUANTIZED PATTERN IN LIVE RECORDING MODE 1. Select LIVE RECORDING, toggling quantize mode by holding [REC] + [PLAY] + [PLAY] quickly to toggle live quantize recording On/Off. This is indicated by a temporary message in title bar. 2. The sequence will start and the REC Key will flash red and the PLAY key will be lit green to indicate live recording mode is active. 3. Play live the desired track key to play / trigger and which will be quantized to the grid as per the current quantize setting. Example: Playing [6] triggers and records Track 6 4. Press [STOP] to stop recording and playback. Pressing [PLAY] will stop recording but continue to play. ▌SWITCHING FROM LIVE TO GRID RECORDING MODE ON THE FLY 1. In LIVE RECORDING mode press [REC] 2. The mode switches from LIVE to GRID RECORDING mode and play continues. NOTES The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 27 Pattern Basics3
28 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide ▌CHROMATIC RECORDING IN LIVE RECORDING MODE 1. Press quickly [FUNC] + [TRK] to select Chromatic Mode indicated by the lit yellow LED. Note that step recording mode also uses the chromatic keyboard automatically when holding [FUNC]. 2. Select LIVE RECORDING mode by holding [REC] + [PLAY]. 3. The Trigs will now be laid out in a Piano keyboard scale. The sequence will start indicated by the red cursor and the REC Key will flash red and the PLAY key will be lit green to indicate live recording mode is active. 4. Play live the desired notes on the chromatic keyboard. This will record notes on the selected track. 5. Use [UP and [DOWN] to transpose the keyboard if required. 6. Press [STOP] to stop recording and playback. 7. Pressing [PLAY] will stop recording but continue to play. 8. [FUNC] + [TRK] will exit out of chromatic mode 9. The keyboard settings can be configured. Hold [FUNC] + [TRK] for greater than 2 seconds to open the keyboard settings options. C# C D D# E F F# G G# A A# B C + NOTES 3 Pattern Basics
3.8 Step Recording Basics. Step recording is similar to grid recording. Multi track recording is possible in step recording mode. Notes can be added with the trig keys or external MIDI controller and steps iterate automatically. Two states are available, standard mode or jump mode which uses the LEN setting for note length and also the sequence advancement length during recording. The [FUNC] + [YES] Save and [FUNC] + [NO] Reload functions do not operate the same way in step recording mode. ▌CHANGE / CHECK STEP RECORDING MODE STATE 1. Select STEP RECORDING mode by pressing [REC] + [STOP]. The REC Key will flash double red to indicate step recording mode is active. 2. Hold [REC] + [STOP], [STOP] - i.e. stop twice while Rec is held to switch between standard and jump mode. 3. Display indicates mode state selected. NOTES The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 29 Pattern Basics3
▌STEP RECORDING IN STANDARD MODE 1. Select STEP RECORDING mode by pressing [REC] + [STOP]. The REC Key will double flash red to indicate step recording mode is active. 2. Ensure step recording mode state is set to ‘standard’ mode. 3. Press [TRK] + Trig [1] - [16] to select the track in which to record steps. This can be changed anytime during step recording and retains the recorded sequence on the tracks. Red trig indicates active track. 4. Select a start point trig step. The green blinking trig key will indicate the currently selected step. If a existing trig is selected the colour pattern may match this trig. Also use the [LEFT], [RIGHT] to relocate the step position. 5. Recording in fixed step trigs:- • Hold [FUNC] - Trig keyboard should be lit dull, current step green and current track with a red trig step. If this shows the chromatic keyboard, press [FUNC] + [TRK] to toggle. • While holding [FUNC] press the red lit trig (the track indicating step). Pressing any other trig step will change to the selected track. • This will record a fixed note trig and advance the green trig step to the next active step. 6. To record notes using the chromatic trig keyboard: • Hold [FUNC] - Trig chromatic keyboard should be lit bright and current step green. If this shows the buttons dull, press [FUNC] + [TRK] to toggle. • Hold [FUNC] and press [UP] or [DOWN] to transpose if required. • While holding [FUNC] press lit trigs to play the chromatic keyboard. • This will record the desired note trig and advance the green trig step to the next active step. 7. Press [NO] to remove a note trig or add a rest into a step. 8. Press [REC] to exit step recording mode. 9. Note that the note length and velocity are found in the [TRIG] Page LEN parameter and VEL parameter respectively. 30 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 3 Pattern Basics
NOTES The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 31 Pattern Basics3 ▌STEP RECORDING IN JUMP MODE 1. Select STEP RECORDING mode by pressing [REC] + [STOP]. The REC Key will double flash red to indicate step recording mode is active. 2. Ensure step recording mode state is set to ‘jump’ mode. 3. Press [TRK] + Trig [1] - [16] to select the track in which to record steps. This can be changed anytime during step recording and retains the recorded sequence on the tracks. Red trig indicates active track. 4. Select the [TRIG] Page and set the LEN Parameter - Control (C) on audio tracks and (F) on MIDI Tracks to a length as desired. This length will determine: • The length of the step note i.e. 1/16th . • The step advancement of the sequencer i.e. 1/16th. • Set a parameter lock LEN on the step. 5. Select a start point trig step. The green blinking trig key will indicate the currently selected step. If a existing trig is selected the colour pattern may match this trig. Also the [LEFT], [RIGHT] will relocate the step position. 6. Recording in fixed step trigs:- • Hold [FUNC] - Trig keyboard should be lit dull, current step green and current track with a red trig step. If this shows the chromatic keyboard, press [FUNC] + [TRK] to toggle. • While holding [FUNC] press the red lit trig (the track indicating step). Pressing any other trig step will change to the selected track. • This will record a fixed note trig and advance the green trig step based on LEN to the next defined step.
32 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 3 Pattern Basics Continued… 7. To record notes using the chromatic trig keyboard: • Hold [FUNC] - Trig chromatic keyboard should be lit bright and current step green. If this shows the buttons dull, press [FUNC] + [TRK] to toggle to the chromatic keyboard. • Hold [FUNC] and press [UP] or [DOWN] to transpose if required. • While holding [FUNC] press lit trigs to play the chromatic keyboard. • This will record the desired note trig and advance the green trig step based on the LEN setting to the next defined step. 8. Press [NO] to remove a note trig or add a rest into a step. 9. Press [REC] to exit step recording mode.
NOTES The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 33 ▌ADDING PARAMETER LOCKS DURING STEP RECORDING. Parameter locks are automatically created when recording for the NOTE and length LEN trig parameters in step recording mode. During step recording mode. 1. To add a parameter lock, hold trig [1] … [16] + turn the control for the parameter to adjust and lock into the trig. 2. Parameter will show inverted on the display while the trig is held. 3. While in step recording mode the button will flash green as the active step with a parameter lock. In recording mode the trig key will flash yellow where parameter locks trigs (no note) exist. Where note trigs exist the trig key will flash red. Pattern Basics3
34 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 3.9 Additional Recording Information Recording can be made on the Digitakt or with an external MIDI controller / keyboard. The MIDI set up details are covered in more depth in the MIDI & USB Section. Also note preview is useful tool when programming and developing patterns. ▌RECORDING WITH AN EXTERNAL MIDI CONTROLLER • Grid recording. Press [FUNC] + [LEFT], [RIGHT] to shift recorded trigs. • Grid and Step recording. The Digitakt AUTO CHANNEL setting must be used as the controller channel when recording in. This is detailed in the MIDI section. FX parameters are received on the FX CONTROL channel. • Grid recording mode. NOTE and TRIG VELOCITY data when holding a [TRIG] key and playing a note on the external controller will record the parameter locks. • Live recording mode. NOTE, TRIG VELOCITY, and TRIG LENGTH data is recorded from the external keyboard by the sequencer. • Grid recording mode. Four note chords can be added to every trig on MIDI Tracks. TRIG VELOCITY is set from the first note, applied to all notes on the trig. • Live recording mode. Four note chords can be added to every trig on MIDI Tracks. TRIG VELOCITY is set from the first note, applied to all notes on the trig. The last note that is released sets the TRIG LENGTH for all notes on the trig. • Step recording. Velocity is recorded in from the external controller and is assigned as a VEL parameter lock to the trigs unless [FUNC] is held while recording in which case the VEL parameter will be retained as a fixed value. • Step recording. Holding [YES] on Digitakt while recording will record in the note length played on the controller. NOTES 3 Pattern Basics
NOTES The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 35 Pattern Basics3 Function Grid Live Step Comments / Notes Select Mode [REC] [REC] + [PLAY] [REC] + [STOP] REC button state Red Flash Red 2x Flash Red Play Yes Yes Yes Playback by default in live mode Note Placement Per Trig Play In Play In Note Removal Trig - [NO] Note Preview Yes Yes Yes Audible preview of note + locks Shift Notes Yes No No [FUNC] + [LEFT], [RIGHT] Track Select [TRK] + [1] - [16] [TRK] + [1] - [16] [TRK] + [1] - [16] Chromatic No [FUNC] + [TRK] [FUNC] + [TRK] Toggle chromatic Velocity Internal Recording Fixed Fixed Fixed Trig page VEL Velocity External Controller Controller Controller Controller Step Rec options available 4 Note Chords MIDI Tracks Yes Yes Yes Velocity dependant on rec mode Trig Length LEN Play In Various Step rec has length options. Auto Channel External Controller Yes Yes Yes To record into MIDI. FX MIDI CC is received on FX Control channel. Summary of available functionality within recording modes.
36 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 3 Pattern Basics 3.10 Playing and Previewing Patterns Playback is available during recording and operates slightly differently in the recording modes. For example live recording operates while playing. Trig preview is also a useful tool when programming and developing patterns. ▌PLAYING THE PATTERN 1. Press [PLAY]. 2. The white cursor steps through the sequence triggering the red trigs. 3. Any pattern changes during the playback will queue up and await the current pattern to be completed before changing. 4. Press [STOP] to stop playback. ▌PREVIEWING A SINGLE STEP This feature allows the audible previewing of individual steps including its parameter locks and works for both Audio and MIDI Tracks. This function operates in recording mode. 1. Ensure GRID or STEP Recording mode is selected. 2. Press and hold Trig step [1] … [16] + [YES] to audition the selected trig. 3. The trig will be audible and any settings and trig locks will also be auditioned.
NOTES The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 37 Pattern Basics3 3.11 In Depth Pattern Timing and Retrig Options Digitakt has some advanced settings for sequence timing in addition to the standard quantization. These are retrigs, micro timing and swing settings. ▌SETTING GLOBAL QUANTIZATION 1. Press [FUNC] + [TRIG] to select the quantization options 2. Adjust Data Entry control (F) to change the quantization value between 0-127. The higher the value the more quantized the micro timed trigs of ALL tracks are made. Pressing data entry while adjusting offers a larger edit resolution 3. Press [NO] to exit Note that this parameter change adjusts the quantization in real time ▌SETTING TRACK QUANTIZATION 1. Press [FUNC] + [TRIG] to select the quantization options 2. Change to the desired track number if needed by holding [TRK] + Trig [1] … [16]. The target track is indicated in the display. 3. Adjust data entry control (E) to change the quantization value between 0-127. The higher the value the more quantized the micro timed trigs of the selected track. Pressing data entry while adjusting adjusts at a larger edit resolution 4. Press [NO] to exit Note that this parameter change adjusts the quantization in real time ▌SETTING PATTERN SWING 1. Select [TEMPO] Menu 2. Select the swing setting for the current pattern using data entry (E) 3. Setting is between 50% - 80% as indicated in the display with 50% being the default ‘no swing’ setting.
38 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide ▌SETTING INDIVIDUAL TRIG MICRO TIMING 1. Select GRID RECORDING mode [REC] 2. Select and hold the desired step Trig key [1] + [16] and while holding press [LEFT] or [RIGHT] 3. The Micro Timing pop up grid display appears 4. While keeping the Trig pressed adjust the micro timing using [LEFT] or [RIGHT] Micro Timing Adjustment Use [LEFT] or [RIGHT] to adjust the micro timing of the selected trig. Setup in Grid Recording Mode Micro Timing settings are stored with the active pattern Resolution Defined resolution steps shift the trig timing back or forth in the sequence 1/384 1/192 1/96 5/384 1/64 7/384 1/48 1/96 3/128 5/192 11/384 1/32 13/384 7/192 5/128 1/24 17/384 3/64 19/384 5/96 7/128 11/192 23/384 +/- Select Micro Timing. Hold Trig [1] … [16] + [LEFT] or [RIGHT] to open settings pop up MICRO TIMING On GRID NOTES 3 Pattern Basics
▌SETTING INDIVIDUAL RETRIG STEPS 1. Select GRID RECORDING mode [REC] 2. Select and hold the desired step Trig key [1] + [16] and while holding press [UP] or [DOWN] 3. The Retrig pop up option display appears 4. While keeping the Trig pressed use turn Data Entry (A) to toggle Retrig On / Off. 5. Release the Trig key or keep held to adjust one of the below settings. RETRIG ON/OFF Trig [1] …[8] + [UP] or [DOWN] then use Data Control (A) RATE Retrig Rate with 1/16 meaning 1 trig per step, 1/32 is 2 Trigs per step etc. Data control (E) or [UP] [DOWN] Setup in GRID RECORDING Mode Only use with Audio Tracks 1-8. Not available with MIDI Tracks 9-16 LENGTH Retrig velocity curve duration setting for a Step. Data Control (D) to set VELOCITY Velocity curve Fade Out, -128 and Fade In, 127. 0 Is no fade on the set length. Data Control (H) to set RETRIG E O D RATE 1/16 H LEn 1/4 VEL O 1/1, 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, 1/5, 1/6, 1/8, 1/10, 1/12, 1/16, 1/20, 1/24, 1/32, 1/40, 1/48, 1/64, 1/80 NOTES Trig ON Step 1 Original Pattern 1/16 Retrig 1/32 Retrig 1/20 Retrig 1/12 Retrig Trig OFF Step 2 Trig OFF Step 3 Trig OFF Step 4 Trig Step 16 .............. The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 39 Pattern Basics3
40 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 3.12 Copy, Paste and Clear Trigs in Grid Recording The Copy, Paste and Clear features are available when working in the sequencer for Trigs and their parameter locks in GRID RECORDING mode. ▌COPYING ONE TRIG TO ANOTHER STEP LOCATION 1. Select GRID RECORDING Mode , Press [REC] 2. Select and hold the source trig [1] … [16] to copy and press [REC]. This copies the trig and settings. 3. Hold the destination trig [1] … [16] and press [STOP]. This pastes the previous trig into the destination. copies trigs including parameter locks GRID RECORDING MODE Copy Hold Trig [1] + [REC] Paste Hold Trig [13] + [STOP] Clear Hold Trig [9] + [PLAY] EXAMPLE: Copy from Trig Step 1 and Paste to Step 13, Clear Trig 9 COPY / PASTE CLEAR 1 13 Track 1 1 9 13 X TRIG NOTES 3 Pattern Basics
▌COPYING MULTIPLE TRIGS TO OTHER STEP LOCATIONS 1. Select GRID RECORDING Mode , Press [REC] 2. Select and hold all of the source trigs [1] … [16] to copy and press [REC]. This copies all the trigs that have been held with the first trig as reference. 3. Hold a destination trig [1] … [16] and press [STOP]. This pastes the previous trigs into the destination in the same step format referencing the first step. ▌CLEARING ONE TRIG LOCK 1. Select GRID RECORDING Mode , Press [REC] 2. Select and hold the selected trig [1] … [16] to clear and press [PLAY]. This clears the selected trig locks ▌CLEARING MULTIPLE TRIG LOCKS 1. Select GRID RECORDING Mode , Press [REC] 2. Select and hold the selected multiple trigs [1] … [16] to clear and press [PLAY]. This clears the selected trig locks NOTES The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 41 Pattern Basics3
42 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 3.13 General Copy, Paste and Clear Patterns The Copy, Paste and Clear features are available when working with Digitakt for patterns in normal mode (not in any recording mode). ▌COPYING CURRENT PATTERN TO ANOTHER PATTERN SLOT 1. Select the pattern to copy as the current pattern, [BANK] + [A] … [H] and then Pattern [1] … [16] 2. From within the pattern hold [FUNC] + [REC] to copy the current pattern 3. Select the destination pattern to copy to, [BANK] + [A] … [H] and then Pattern [1] … [16] 4. Press [FUNC] + [STOP] to copy the previously selected pattern to the newly selected pattern slot Select the current Bank + Pattern Select the current Bank + Pattern Bank A Bank B Pattern 2 Pattern 4 NOT IN RECORDING MODE NOT IN RECORDING MODE Copy Press [FUNC] + [REC] Paste Press [FUNC] + [STOP] Clear Press [FUNC] + [PLAY] EXAMPLE: Copy from current pattern A2 to a new pattern B4 COPY CLEAR PASTE NOTES 3 Pattern Basics
▌COPYING / PASTING PATTERNS WITHOUT LEAVING THE PATTERN 1. Select the pattern to copy, hold [PTN] + press trig [1] … [16]. 2. While still holding [PTN], release the trig key 3. Press [REC] to copy while still holding [PTN] 4. Press the destination trig [1] … [16] to paste to 5. Press and hold [STOP] to Paste and await the countdown to finish before releasing all keys ▌CLEARING CURRENT PATTERN 1. Within the selected pattern, hold [FUNC] + [PLAY]. ▌CLEARING ONE OR MORE PATTERNS 1. Hold [PTN] + trig or multiple trigs [1] … [16] 2. While holding [PTN], hold [PLAY] to clear selected patterns until the timer completes then release keys. ▌UNDOING COPY, PASTE, CLEAR ACTION 1. Undertake a Copy, Paste, Clear action 2. Immediately after initiating the action in Step.1, repeat the key press to undo the prior action e.g. [TRIG] + [REC] To Copy .......... [TRIG] + [REC] To Undo [TRIG] + [PLAY] To Paste ......... [TRIG] + [PLAY] To Undo [TRIG] + [STOP] To Clear ......... [TRIG] + [STOP] To Undo NOTES The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 43 Pattern Basics3
44 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES
Having covered the basics of pattern creation, this section provides a deeper dive into the features and parameters that unlock the full power of sequencing within Digitakt. The key page when working with patterns is the [TRIG] page and its settings and this is therefore given close attention within this section. While the assembly of a series of steps and trigs into an arrangement builds melodic patterns, the patterns are at the heart of Digitakt and these are arranged within the its powerful sequencer and its associated feature set. The sequencer is enhanced by complex functions such as trig conditions where patterns are governed by rule sets, parameter locks where parameter variations for each step can be created and sound locks where unique sounds can be set per step. Patterns can be also chained which allows sequential playback of a number of patterns. Song mode allows more elaborate development of sequences of patterns. In Song mode patterns can be assembled into a full production and entire arrangements created. A temporary save and reload function opens up some create opportunities especially when playing live. When navigating the pattern and other menu’s the location in the menu structure will remain at the previous position. This functionality can be changed in the settings to remember the last menu position. For these instructions, the assumption is that the ‘top’ menu will be the starting point. If needed, press [NO] from within the menu repeatedly to take the location back to the highest entry level in the menu structure. Patterns Advanced 4 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 45
46 The Digitakt Notebook : Reference & Guide 4 Patterns Advanced 4.1 Adding Lock Trigs To A Pattern While Digitakt has Note trigs assembled into a pattern to activate note events it also has a feature called Lock Trigs which do not trigger any note or audio events but only trigger parameter changes known as parameter locks. This enables variations and evolving progressions through the sequence. Noe that a track with a SLICE machine loaded can also apply linear and random locks. A Parameter Lock is where a Parameter is set to a defined value for the specific trig step. This enables one or more parameter changes per step of the sequenced pattern A Sound Lock is where a individual sound is assigned from the sound pool to one or more trig steps. This enables a unique sound change per step of the sequenced pattern Parameter Pages These parameters are available for Parameter locks with the exception of the TRIG page YELLOW keys contain Lock Trigs (with no note trig). Note Trigs are RED and Parameter Locked trigs blink. Unlit keys contain no trigs Lock Trigs are added by pressing [FUNC] + Trig [1] ...[16] Max 72 different parameters locked per pattern LOCK TRIG Events set at a defined step in the sequencer that triggers parameter changes but does not trigger notes. When combined with others, is arranged to create variation within a pattern 1 16 Trk 1 4 5 5 Lock + ▌SETTING PARAMETER LOCK TRIGS IN GRID RECORDING MODE 1. Select GRID RECORDING mode [REC] 2. Select and hold [FUNC] and press Trig key [1] + [16] 3. A Lock Trig is set on the selected step and illuminates Yellow indicating only a Lock Trig present and no note trig. 4. To assign a Parameter lock, hold the [TRIG] step and make an adjustment to a Parameter on the Parameter pages. Example: [SRC] Page, bit reduction BR, Data Entry (C). The parameter will show inverse bold yellow on the display 5. The Trig will flash yellow with a SRC, FLTR, AMP or LSO parameter lock is assigned and will adjust the parameter to the new position as the step triggers.