MKII
II The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide III Overview 1 Architecture 9 Sets & Projects 27 Track Basics 51 Track Machines 81 Track Recording 123 AMP 147 Parts and Scenes 157 Pattern Basics 177 Patterns Advanced 209 LFO’s 257 Audio 277 Effects 325 MIDI 361 Arrangements 421 System 449 Index 467 Contents 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
IV The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide
Elektron were born in Gothenburg, Sweden, a in 1998. With over 20 years of experience in creating unique musical instruments and effects modules Octatrack was first released in 2011 and updated to the MK2 model in 2017. There is no doubt that Octatrack is a powerful and feature rich device and contains much of the Elektron DNA including the sequencer, trigs, parameter locks and a lot of the features that have become synonymous with Elektron. However what comes alongside this power is some complexity and a steeper learning curve to develop knowledge and get the best from this fantastic instrument. Building a workflow and developing muscle memory will require an investment of time. Hopefully this producer guide will help speed up your learning and get a clear understanding of Octatrack and its entire features allowing music making to be effective. If you’re currently confused or unclear then stay with us, all will become clear. So what is Octatrack? It says on the tin that it’s a dynamic performance sampler with 8 audio sample based tracks and 8 MIDI with a high performance feature set for editing, manipulating and sequencing. Octatrack is not a Swiss army knife for the music maker but focusses more on being a high performance sample sequencer. It does this extremely well. Octatrack is ideal for the centre piece or hub of any studio or live set up. With extensive MIDI control for external devices, multiple sampling options, its ability to real time edit and manipulate audio, Octatrack is a modern classic. This guide offers you a reference and tips on getting the best from it. There are walkthroughs and instructions that will help both the newcomer and advanced user alike. The diagrams are for illustration and are not official technical schematics. Designed-in space allocated to adding your own notes and to make it personal. The design is intended to bring a comprehensive information set and content alongside your own notes in a PDF e-notebook format. Overview The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 1 1
2 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 1 Overview 1.1 How to Use This Notebook This book combines a formal reference alongside your own notes and comments, collectively bringing together a comprehensive guide to Octatrack. 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 conventions. (CONTROL) Rounded parentheses represent the context sensitive rotary controls. The data entry controls labelled A-F or any other rotary which is indicated by its name i.e. (LEVEL) - level rotary control. {FADER} The crossfader is described within the curly parentheses. [FUNC] Square parentheses contain functions that are selectable by a physically dedicated button - either as a primary or secondary function. [FUNC] + [YES] Functions which require multiple button selections simultaneously are shown with a + symbol between each required button. Buttons are labelled with the primary functions and accessed by simply pressing the button. The labels underneath indicate the function selectable through multiple button selection, typically using [FUNC] + [BUTTON]. Step buttons 1-16 will be indicated purely by the respective trig number i.e. [1], [2] … [16] and will normally be preceded by the current context i.e. Trig. Tracks are identified as [T1], [T2] etc unless referring to all track buttons in general in which case [Tx] is used. There are some buttons that show symbols rather than text for the function. This includes the transport and tempo buttons. [REC] Record [PLAY] Play [STOP] Stop [TEMPO] Tempo Your Notes Can be written here Here Did you know? Octatrack celebrated its 10 th anniversary in 2021 with the release of a special 10 year limited edition model. NOTES
On / Off Switch 12V DC Power Input. Hi Speed USB 2.0 Type B Compact Flash Card Slot 5 Pin MIDI DIN In, Out, Thru ¼” Audio outs - cue & main (balanced). 4 x Audio in (balanced/unbalanced). 1 x Stereo 55 ohm headphone out. Overview1 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 3 1.2 Hardware Overview 340mm 184 mm 63 mm
4 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide Audio Outputs Main and Cue outputs plus headphone out Audio Inputs AB & CD Connect ¼ Mono unbalanced or ¼ TRS balanced cables MIDI 5 Pin DIN type MIDI In, Out and Thru TRACKS 1 - 4 Track selection, [Tx], Press [FUNC] + [Tx] to mute. Also selects track recorder and cues a track. Headphone Vol Adjusts the headphone output level Real Time Recording Functions AB and CD audio input recording. Secondary [FUNC] + [RECx] to open setup menu. Real Time Recording Functions Internal audio recording. Secondary [FUNC] + [REC3] to open edit menu. MIDI Mode Switches to MIDI Mode to access MIDI tracks. Secondary [FUNC] + [MIDI] to open MIDI Sync options. Project Menu Selects the project [PROJ] settings. Secondary [FUNC] + [PROJ] saves current project. Part Selection Selects part 1-4. Secondary [FUNC] + [PART] opens part editor. Audio Editor Selects audio editor options. Secondary [FUNC] + [AED] opens the slice menu. Mixer Selects audio input / output and mute mixer. Secondary [FUNC] + [MIX] sets metronome on/off. Arranger Opens the arranger editor. Secondary [FUNC] + [ARR] arrangement mode. SRC Track Parameter Page Opens the Source Page or Note in MIDI Mode. Parameters dependant on machine selected. Secondary [FUNC] + [SRC] opens the page setup. LFO Track Parameter Page Opens the Low Frequency Oscillator Page. Secondary [FUNC] + [LFO] opens LFO setup. Function to access to secondary options. Used in conjunction with secondary button to access the alternate function using [FUNC]+[button]. Yes / No. Acknowledges, selects or cancels a function. Pattern. Pattern selection, Press [PTN] + Trig [1] - [16]. [FUNC] + [PTN] to open pattern settings. Bank. Bank selection, Press [BANK] + Trig [1] - [16]. [FUNC] + [BANK] to open track trig edit options. Trig Sequence. Selects Sequence Steps, Press Trig [1] - [16]. Also select bank, pattern, scene or track / sample / MIDI CUE button Press [CUE] + [Tx] to cue the track ‘x’ outputs. Press [FUNC] + [CUE] to reload to the current part. Navigation buttons Navigates menus and options [UP], [DOWN], [RIGHT], [LEFT] and also nudges BPM. AMP Track Parameter Page Opens the Amplitude page or Arp in MIDI Mode. Secondary [FUNC] + [AMP] opens setup options. 1 Overview 1 4 5 5 7 7 6 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 14 18 19 18 20 22 14 15 22 21 15 16 35 17 20 23 17 19 21 23 16 13 8 6 4 2 2 3 3 1
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 5 TRACKS 5 - 8 Track selection, [Tx], Press [FUNC] + [TRACK] to mute. Also selects track recorder and cues track. OLED Display Context sensitive 128 x 64 resolution display will show the function selected. LEVEL Adjusts the overall track volume level. For master level use [FUNC] + (LEVEL). DATA ENTRY Data entry rotaries that correspond to the 6 parameters for the function and page displayed. Press and turn for larger parameter increments. In the [AED] Audio Editor these perform dedicated editing parameter adjustments. Card Status. Activity indicator for compact flash card. Do not power off or remove card if brightly lit or flashing. USB. Type B High Speed 2.0 USB Port. Used for connecting a PC for sample management or updates. Power. Power supply DC in connector and the main power on/off switch. FX1 Track Parameter Page Opens the first effect or MIDI Ctrl 1 main page. Secondary [FUNC] + [FX1] opens setup pages. FX2 Track Parameter Page Opens second effect or MIDI Ctrl 2 main page. Secondary [FUNC] + [FX1] opens setup pages. Scene A & B Scene buttons used for setting and storing different parameter states. [A] or [B] + Trig [1] - [16] will assign one of the 16 scenes. To set a parameter to the current scene hold [A] or [B] + turn (DATA ENTRY). To mute the scene [FUNC] + [A] or [B] for the scene to mute. Crossfader The crossfader can morph dynamically and creatively between the two selected A and B Scenes. Compact Flash card slot Insert high speed compact flash. Maximum 64Gb. Page Selects the active pattern page. Lit LED indicates available pattern pages, flashing LED indicates the current page that is being played. Each LED represents 16 steps of the 64 available i.e. 4 pages. To open the scale menu press [FUNC] + [PAGE]. Tempo Opens the tempo menu. Hold [FUNC] + tap [TEMPO] for setting a BPM. [Tx] + [TEMPO] to sync pick up machine hosted track. 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 Overview1 24 24 33 33 25 26 26 34 34 35 38 35 36 36 36 38 23 37 37 28 28 27 27 29 30 30 32 32 31 31 29 25
6 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 1.3 Demo Mode Octatrack has a demo mode that allows the functions to be tried out without the need for a compact flash to be installed. This is normally used to allow familiarisation and getting to know the basics rather than for the full use of Octatrack features. Saving is not possible in demo mode. ▌ ACCESSING DEMO MODE 1. Power off Octatrack. 2. If installed, remove the compact flash card. 3. Press and hold [YES] + Power On the Octatrack. 4. Demo mode will be displayed and opened. ▌ USING DEMO MODE - GETTING STARTED 1. Demo patterns are available in A01 - A16. Select one of the available patterns using [PTN] + Trig [1] - [16]. 2. Play a pattern by pressing [PLAY]. 3. Mute a pattern by pressing [FUNC] + Track [T1] - [T8]. 4. To adjust the track parameters, firstly select the track [T1] - [T8}, then select the track page i.e. [SRC] then adjust the data entry control for the designated parameter. 5. Press [FUNC] + [CUE] to reset parameter values to the saved default. 6. To record a sequence pattern, press [REC] to enter GRID RECORDING mode. Select a track [T1] - [T8], then press trigs [1] - [16] to select or deselect steps in the pattern. 7. Scenes and parameter locks can also be applied in demo mode. DEMO MODE NOTES 1 Overview
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 7 1.4 Quick Start Workflow While demo mode is good to get a quick understanding of the functions and sound of Octatrack there is nothing like developing the first project. Everyone will develop there own workflow and muscle memory will lock it in to a working pattern. As a kick off the workflow process is captured here for generally sequencing a sample based pattern to help get started. Overview1 S E 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 9 Create or Mount a Set Create or Load a Project Select & Set up a Track Select & Assign Machine to Track Configure Machine Set a Tempo Select a Pattern Length Sequence a Pattern Set up scenes Modulation with LFO Add an effect or two Tweak and adjust track parameters Mix Tracks Arrange Patterns A set must be mounted and project loaded in order to work in Octatrack. The set audio pool would need to contain samples for them to be accessible to the machines. New sets may require samples to be added to the audio pool. If working on an existing project the previously mounted set and project will automatically open. What do you want it to do? Whats the audio source? Flex and Static Machines work with samples. Other machine options: thru machine to route external audio, neighbor machine for internal track audio, pickup machine for looping. Audio can be recorded in using a track recorder into a flex track sample slot or a pickup machine. Select a bank and load am existing pattern. Parts are also stored in banks. The machine assignment and setup occurs in a ‘part’, the default is 1. Variations can be setup in parts 2, 3 or 4. There are four parts in each bank. The BPM tempo can be adjusted later and used also for sample time adjustments There are 16 steps in each of four pages. The length can be set up. Trigs can be set on the steps to trigger the sample playback. Trig locks and trig conditions can add variations and parameter changes. Parameter settings can be set to scene A and B allowing transitions between the two using the crossfader. Modulation of parameters can be applied with one or more of the low frequency oscillators. Adds movement and interest to the sound. A variety of effects can be inserted into the two available effect slots. Effects can also be used for external audio processing using the thru machine. Mixing all track is possible with the mixer. Also track 8 can be set up as a main output track. Multiple patterns can be assembled to create a sequence of patterns for a full song arrangement using the arranger tool. ALTERNATIVES ACTION COMMENTS Example: Flex Machine to play samples Example: Add samples from audio pool into the flex machine slots Example: Set filter cutoff at max and min for A and B to give a sweep option. Example: Modulate a flex sample start position for a glitch effect Example: Delay and reverb are common effects to be applied. SRC and AMP pages. Example: Track 1 = Bass-line.
8 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES
Make no mistake, Octatrack is a complex and comprehensive device. There are so many features and a wealth of options and choices. The overall structure of Octatrack can seem at first glance, confusing. However spending a little time to understand the overall architecture and its terminology will set a good starting foundation. For this reason there are no apologies for taking time to get intimate with the architecture of the overall device and bringing this summary upfront in this guide. Getting a solid understanding and awareness of the Octatrack’s structure will help enormously in getting to grips later with the rest of the device. There are no assumptions on compatibility with the other Elektron devices and this section is self contained to help get an understanding of the core fundamentals and principles behind the Octatrack. While more in depth details for specific topics are covered in the following sections of the guide book, the foundations are laid out in this section. The hierarchical structure and organisation of data and functions such as Sets and Projects are summarised collectively and how they work together with the more creative elements such as Tracks, Parts and Machines. Octatrack users find the architecture and how the elements fit together one of the most confusing things when using the sampler. It is therefore worth the investment of time and focus in understanding the architecture hierarchy. Developing a fundamental workflow and efficient process will help get the most out of Octatracks features. Architecture The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 9 2
10 The Octatrack 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’ and especially the Octatrack will help unlock it’s power and performance. It makes sense to become familiar early with the essential terms to help embed into your workflow 2 Architecture Amp: Shortened name for amplitude. Octatrack provides a dedicated settings page to configure levels and shape of audio. Arrangement: Structures the playback of sequential patterns. Each project contains 8 arrangements. Arpeggiator: A feature available for MIDI tracks that generates repeatable or random note patterns. Audio Editor: Utility to help edit and adjust audio. For example trimming audio samples. Audio Pool: Octatrack’s main audio sample location available to the project flex and static machine slots and found on the compact card. Each Set has one audio pool. Audio Track: Up to 8 Audio Tracks are available for sequencing audio orientated patterns. Samples and audio routing is hosted and managed by the use of Octatrack ‘machines’. Bank: Banks are used to structure the organisation of patterns, ideal for full song compositions. Each project contains 16 banks (A-P), each with 16 patterns (01-16) plus 4 parts. Compact Flash: A removable memory card which stores sets and samples as well as for streaming audio samples to Octatrack static machines. Conditional Locks: Applies specific rules on how and if a Trig will operate. Considered pre-requisite criteria for the step to operate Elektron: The designer and manufacturer of Octatrack and many other great audio products. File Manager. A utility for managing folders and files on the compact flash. Located in ‘card tools’ under the [PROJ] menu. Flex Machine: An audio track machine that manages a sample as the audio source. The sample is located in one of the machines 128 sample slots and streamed from the RAM memory. FX: A number of assignable effects are provided with dedicated pages. These include EQ, reverbs, filters and delays amongst others. LFO: Low frequency oscillator which is not specifically used for sound generation but more so to modulate parameters for sound design and movement. Octatrack has a 3 LFO’s with selectable or customised waves. Looping: The process of replaying audio continuously in a defined cycle e.g. start to end then start to end. Overdub recording can also be performed to build multi layered loops. Lock Trig: Activates a defined parameter change on a sequence step without triggering the note i.e. Filter change. Machine: Each track has one of five available machines assigned. Each machine provides unique functionality to manage the audio source. Think of a machine as an audio configuration app for setting the tracks audio source and settings. MIDI Track: Octatrack has 8 MIDI tracks, available for MIDI I/O Sequencing. Mute: Muting offers variations that can be created by silencing the play out of tracks and patterns for sound design and especially when playing live. Note Trig: Triggers a specific note sound or midi note on the selected track step. For example when setting sequence patterns. Octatrack: An 8 track dynamic performance sampler and MIDI sequencer.
Architecture2 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 11 OS: Operating System is the core software that makes Octatrack work. It handles how it operates and periodic updates from Elektron bring new features into use. Overdub: The process of recording audio on top of existing audio without erasing. The combination recorded audio layers forms the audio sample. Parameter: The individual value of a specific function or control element. A parameter can be adjusted to affect a sound or a functions 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. Part: Each bank contains 4 parts. A part contains the information for how each track is configured with machines and their samples plus track parameters, FX assignments and scene settings. Think of a part as a track preset or patch that allows an optional audio variation change in the current pattern. Pattern: This is the backbone and core of an Octatrack sequence. Each pattern stores the sequence of samples and trigs, parameter locks, lengths and everything associated with each pattern for the audio and MIDI tracks. Pickup Machine: One of the five available track machines specifically used to perform sample recording and looping. Project: The overall pattern container which includes general settings, all banks and pattern slots. If a set is the album or set list, think of a project as an individual song within it. A project should always be loaded to work with Octatrack. RAM Memory: While Octatrack operates mainly from the compact flash card, on board RAM memory is also used specifically for flex machine audio and also track recorders. Sample: The basic audio sample. Format for use in static and flex machines is 16bit or 24bit, 44.1Hz, wav or aiff, mono or stereo files. Sample Slots: When using samples in a track, they can be hosted (copied from the audio pool) into one of the two flex or static machines sample slots. Each of these machines has 128 available sample slots. Sampling: The act (and art) of recording and capturing audio to be edited and creatively assembled into a new musical composition. Set: The highest level in the organisational structure. A set contains all of it’s projects and also an audio pool and is located on the compact flash card. Think of a set as a collection of songs used in a live gig or an album. Octatrack will always need to operate within one mounted set. The factory set is named ‘PRESETS’. Scene: Two scenes can be assigned under the ‘A‘ and ‘B’ Slots and controlled by the DJ style cross fader. Each scene has a set of defined parameter settings and therefore offers a transition between the two scenes. Static Machine: An audio track machine that manages a sample as the audio source. The sample is located in one of the machines 128 sample slots and streamed from the compact flash card. Track: Octatrack contains 8 Audio tracks for triggering samples and audio and 8 MIDI tracks for controlling external devices. Track Recorder: Function used to manually or automatically perform sample recording from external or internal audio. Trig: A term used to describe the trigger / activation of a notes or parameter change for a selected step or note in a sequence. Thru Machine. A track machine used specifically for managing and routing incoming external audio. Ideal for using Octatrack as an effects unit for external audio.
2.2 Octatrack Audio Structure 12 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 2 Architecture Project Project Projects Compact Flash Card Audio Project Track 1 Track 2 Track 3 Track 4 Track 5 Track 6 Track 7 Track 8 Machine Flex Static Thru Neighbour + Pickup Sample Track Parameters FX Parameters A B + Sample Trk Params FX Params Effect Effect 16 Scenes 5 Machines 10 FX Options 14 FX Options Scene Audio Pool Set Project BANKS 16 Banks, A - P Arranger 8 Arrangements, 1-8 Constructs sequences of multiple patterns PATTERN 16 slots per bank 01 - 16 8 Audio Tracks controlled by the active pattern PART 4 Parts per bank, 1 - 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 A set is mounted i.e. made accessible from the flash card to the Octatrack. A project is then loaded from the set to be the active project. The number of projects in a set is only limited by the size of the compact flash card size. One common audio pool per set is accessible to all of its projects. Loaded Project A Part is like a preset which assigns and sets the configuration for tracks in a pattern. Default is Part 1. The flex machine and the static machine each has 128 sample slots to host audio samples. Sample per Trig While the general sample for the pattern is set in the flex or static machine for the track, trig locks can apply different samples to individual trig steps. A 01 FX1 LFO1 LFO2 LFO3 FX1 01 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 88 Track Recorders RAM Memory RAM Memory +
Architecture2 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 13 Project Project Projects Compact Flash Card Audio Project Track 9 Track 10 Track 11 Track 12 Track 13 Track 14 Track 15 Track 16 Note 1 Note 3 Note 2 Note 4 Arpeggiator Set Project BANKS 16 Banks, A - P Arranger 8 Arrangements, 1-8 Constructs sequences of multiple patterns MIDI Channel Output PATTERN 16 slots per bank 01 - 16 8 MIDI Tracks controlled by the active pattern A set is mounted i.e. made accessible from the flash card to the Octatrack. A project is then loaded from the set to be the active project. The number of projects in a set is only limited by the size of the compact flash card size. One common audio pool per set is accessible to all of its projects. Loaded Project A 01 CC1 CC6 CC3 CC8 CC2 CC7 CC4 CC9 CC5 CC10 LFO1 LFO2 LFO3 + 2.3 Octatrack MIDI Structure
14 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 2 Architecture 2.4 Compact Flash Card & Memory NOTES The Octatrack uses a removable high speed compact flash card to host sets and audio samples. This is an integral part of Octatrack and although a demo is built into the device the compact flash card needs to be installed to use samples and manage sets and project. Compact cards should be UDMA compatible, 133x (20Mb/Sec) read / write speeds, formatted ideally to FAT32 (or FAT16), maximum 64GB size. Instructions for using a new card are found in the sets and projects section. To remove the card press the release button on the slot once to release the button latch. When it protrudes press again to release the compact flash card ready to be extracted. OCTACARD CP CARD FOR OCTATRACK 866x PROFESSIONAL 32GB Steady lit green dim - Card inserted but can be removed. Never remove the card while it is being written to or being read as indicated by the flashing card status LED. Card Status. Steady yellow dim - Prompt to press [STOP] to confirm write. Some functions require this confirmation before proceeding Flash green - card being read. Do not remove card. Flash red - card being written to. Do not remove card.
Architecture2 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 15 NOTES It is recommended to keep a back up of the compact flash card either to a PC / Mac hard drive or on a spare backup compact flash card. COMPACT FLASH CARD 32GB ProjectA* ProjectB* Set Name* Set Sample1 Sample2 Sample3 A set is mounted to be used by the Octatrack * Sets and projects named as created. An audio folder is created in each set. Sub folders can be created in the audio folder. Newly created sets will initially create an empty audio pool. A project is loaded to the Octatrack to be active for editing and playback. Samples stored in the flex and static machine lists are available to all static and flex machines in the project. Flex Machine. Samples are loaded to the flex machine slots. Maximum 128. Read from RAM memory On board RAM memory available to a project 85.5MB ~65MB available for Flex Sample ~2.7MB available per track recorder Static Machine. Samples are loaded to the static machine slots. Maximum 128. Read from compact flash Audio RAM
2.5 What does what? Lets talk further about the key functions. Due to Octatrack’s complexity, it makes sense to summarise a little more on the roles of specific functions and how they interact with each other before getting deeper. 16 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 2 Architecture NOTES Function Structural Description What does it do? Set Highest level of the octatrack hierarchy acting as a structural container located on the compact flash card and mounted to Octatrack when being used. A package of multiple projects plus an audio pool which is accessible from all of the active sets projects. Project Contains; 16 banks, 8 arrangements, 8 audio tracks plus recorder and buffers, 8 MIDI tracks, parameters, BPM, flex & static machine sample slots A project is considered as the collective elements which are used for creating and playing out a complete song arrangement. A project must loaded to Octatrack to access it. Part Each bank has 4 available parts one of which is assigned to a pattern which determines its tracks configuration settings and assignments. Think of a part as a preset configuration which allows pattern variations. Track and FX parameters, machine and its sample assignment, scenes and FX assignments are defined by the part assigned to that pattern. Bank Banks are used to structure and store patterns and parts. 16 banks are available per project named A - P. Each bank contains 4 parts and 16 patterns. Banks help to organise patterns in a project. This structure makes it easy to navigate patterns and assemble arrangements. Pattern Each bank has 16 pattern slots. A total of 256 patterns are available across all banks in a set. Each patterns has a part linked to it. Patterns contain a series of step by step triggers that are programmed in sequence to create note / trig beats or melodies. Track Octatrack has 8 audio tracks and 8 MIDI tracks which are managed by the active pattern. Audio tracks control and manage the samples, external or internal audio sounds using machines. MIDI tracks control external MIDI gear. Machine 5 machines are available and are assigned using a part. Each can be considered as a dedicated app that is designed to manage the audio source for a track. A machine is assigned to a track. Flex and static machines manage sample audio. A thru machine manages external audio routing while neighbor machine channels the prior track audio. Pickup machines handle looping. Scene Scenes are a collection of stored parameter setting values. A part will hold 16 scenes which can be assigned to the A & B Slots. Scenes are assigned to slot position ‘A” and slot position ‘B’ then by adjusting the crossfader the parameters transition from one to the other, therefore morphing the sound. Arrangement Arrangements are located in a project. Each project can hold 8 arrangements. The arranger function is used to manage arrangements. Arrangements are a series of patterns organised to play sequentially. This is how songs are built and pattern sections such as intro, chorus, verse can be assembled. Audio Pool The audio pool is a collection of audio samples. One audio pool folder is hosted in each set on the compact flash card. A factory library is provided but samples can be created and added. Sets can be mounted to the Octatrack and samples in the audio pool available to all set projects. An audio pool sample can be moved to one of the 128 flex or 128 static machine sample slots for use in the track pattern. MIDI Mode MIDI option switches the configuration and parameters to MIDI orientated functions and feature set. Enables the tracks to operate with pattern trigs which can control external MIDI gear from the MIDI output port. Octatrack can be central to a system of MIDI gear.
Architecture2 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 17 2.6 General Parameter Displays & Navigation The Octatrack display is context sensitive meaning the pages change to match whatever function is selected and its associated parameter set. There are however some style and layout conventions that apply across the entire device. The screen saver is triggered if inactive for 5 minutes. 6 Data entry rotaries represent and control the displayed parameters for the selected function. A clip symbol indicates related parameters 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 func and turn a data entry to ‘jump’ the value increment in steps relevant to the specific function, i.e. [FUNC] + Turn (F). To reset, reload ALL parameters on specific track parameter page hold the parameter page button and press no, eg [SRC] + [NO] also for AMP, LFO, FX1, FX2. Hold any track parameter button (SRC, AMP, LFO, FX1, FX2) to see the associated current parameter setting values. Also the individual value appears when rotating a data entry. A B C D E F Currently Selected BANK A-P and Pattern Number 01-16 Active Part Selected Track e.g. Track 1 Track with selected machine tag and status symbol, e.g. track 5 Active TRIG mode Active MIDI MAP for selected track Assigned scenes A left & B right and crossfader position (Shown left to A) Active Sample Selected track parameter page and selected machine. Playback position showing downbeat per box Volume level for the active track machine BPM Tempo Play, Stop, Record, Pause transport indicators
18 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 2 Architecture Menu Navigation. Use the [UP], [DOWN], [LEFT] and [RIGHT] arrows to navigate in some menu structures. The [YES] / [NO] buttons confirm or cancel. Pressing [NO] on menus will backup and exit the menu. The Navigation key symbol is displayed in some pages to indicate the function is available. - Menus with lists can be scrolled page by page using [FUNC] + [UP] or [DOWN] The (LEVEL) i.e. Level rotary also navigates and scrolls through some lists and menu selections i.e. sample selection. The LEVEL symbol will be displayed on some pages where this option can be applied. - Pressing and turning level will adjust in greater increments - Pressing [FUNC] + Turn (LEVEL) will adjust in jump steps FUNC Operates similar to a shift key. Holding [FUNC] while pressing another button will select its secondary function, usually labelled underneath the button. The primary button function is labelled on the button. The FUNC symbol will be displayed to indicated this option is available in the current page. Trig keys [1] - [16] are also multifunctional. For example they can set sequence steps but also are used for selecting patterns with [PTN] + Trig. The trig symbol may appear on some pages when this function is available within the function selected. F When navigating menus and returning to the menu the previous location in the menu structure will be retained. Instructions in this guide refers to the default entry point of the menus and not the last remembered position.
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 19 Architecture2 NOTES 2.7 Machines Each of Octatrack 8 Audio tracks has a machine assigned to it. This is a unique way of configuring tracks in Octatrack. • A machine is a background application that handles the audio management or routing of audio for the track it is assigned to. • There are 5 Available machines in Octatrack. • Each machine is dedicated to a specific function so would need to be selected based on the application of audio that is required. • The SRC track parameter page, and where applicable the setup secondary page will reflect the parameters available to the specific machine assigned. • Parts store assignments of the machine. Default part 1 may be all that is needed but parts 2, 3 and 4 can also be used to introduce variations. Machine Description User Cases - When to use? Static Machine This machine is used to process and play audio samples (each up to 2GB in size). Samples are streamed from the compact flash card and the static machine has 128 slots to host samples.The SRC Main and Setup pages configure sample playback options. General sample playback and sequencing. especially for large sample playback, time stretching and slicing. Used in less dynamic applications and where fast modulation is less important e.g. cannot modulate STRT parameter is an example as speed of modulation due to streaming from card is slower. Ideal for longer sample playback. Samples are loaded from audio pool into static machine slots. Flex Machine This machine is used to process and play audio samples. Samples are streamed from the Octatrack RAM (onboard memory) and the flex machine has 128 slots to host samples. The SRC Main and Setup pages configure sample playback options. General sample playback and sequencing especially for dynamic, faster, highly modulated applications. Faster due to instant RAM access. Samples are loaded from audio pool into flex machine slots. Flex track slots are also used for track recording audio. Thru Machine Thru machines are used to configure the external input A,B,C,D audio. This helps to organise the routing and levels from the audio inputs. No secondary setup page parameters exist. External audio can be channelled and routed through the Octatrack which allows the external audio to be affected with the internal effects such as the filter, delay, LFO’s etc. Tracks still need to be triggered to play the audio. Neighbor Machine Neighbor machines connect from the previous audio track. This is available on all tracks except track 1 and 5. No configurable SRC Main or secondary Setup page parameters exist. Internal audio from the previous track can be channelled through the Octatrack which allows the track audio to be routed with internal processing. Effects chains can be assembled for complex and creative sound design. Pickup Machine A pickup machine is used for handling looping functions of audio from the track recorder and the recording buffer. The SRC Main and Setup pages configure the looping options. Used for recording loops, overdubbing, layering audio and building up unique sounds. Can be a great tool for live performance and improvisation. Parameters cannot be locked on pick up machine pages.
20 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 2 Architecture 2.8 Audio Track Parameter Pages NOTES Each track has 5 audio parameter pages directly accessible from its own dedicated button. The setup options for each is accessible using [FUNC] + [Page] or quick double tap [Page], where Page is one of the 5 page options. SRC Page parameters will depend on the Machine loaded and is the main source of audio for the selected track. Static machine is shown in example. SRC Page - Main. SRC Page - Setup. + AMP Page parameters manage the amplitude envelopes, volume level and audio balance. These are common to each track irrespective of machine selected. AMP Page - Main. AMP Page - Setup. + LFO Page parameters for the low frequency oscillators (3 per track) speed and depth. Setup assigns the 3 LFO’s wave-shape, multiplier, destination plus access to LFO designer. LFO Page - Main. LFO Page - Setup. + FX2 Page parameters will depend on the effect loaded i.e. Chorus and offers up the parameters for the selected effect. Setup page allows effect selection as well as the parameter settings. FX2 Page - Main. FX2 Page - Setup. + FX1 Page parameters will depend on the effect loaded and offers up the parameters for the selected effect i.e. filter. Setup page allows effect selection as well as the parameter settings. FX1 Page - Main. FX1 Page - Setup. +
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 21 Architecture2 2.9 MIDI Track Parameter Pages Each track has 5 MIDI parameter pages directly accessible from its own dedicated button. The setup options for each is accessible using [FUNC] + [Page] or quick double tap [Page], where Page is one of the 5 page options. SRC Page parameters for MIDI manage the MIDI Notes. In addition the communication channels as well as program changes of external devices. Note Page - Main. Note Page - Setup. + AMP Page for MIDI reverts to the Arpeggiator configuration and control. Arpeggiator is only a MIDI function and does not apply to audio tracks. Arp Page - Main. Arp Page - Setup. + LFO Page parameters for the low frequency oscillators (3 per track) speed and depth. Setup assigns the 3 LFO’s wave-shape, multiplier, destination plus access to LFO designer. LFO Page - Main. LFO Page - Setup. + FX2 controls Ctrl 2 parameters for MIDI. Ctrl 2 essentially enables control of the other six CC (Control Change) messages to change parameters of external gear. Control 2 Page - Main. Control 2 Page - Setup. + FX1 controls Ctrl 1 parameters for MIDI. Ctrl 1 essentially enables control of four CC (Control change) messages to change parameters of external gear. Control 1 Page - Main. Control 1 Page - Setup. + NOTES
22 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 2 Architecture 2.10 Randomization & Reset NOTES Audio and MIDI Track parameters can be randomized and also reset to a previously saved state. Randomization is applied to the main page parameters and not the secondary setup pages. ▌ RANDOMIZING PARAMETERS 1. Press [Page] to select a track parameter page where [Page] is either [SRC], [AMP], [LFO], [FX1] or [FX2]. 2. Press [Page] + [YES] to randomize the parameters in the selected page. The selected track parameters are randomized every press of this button combination. 3. Press [Page] + [NO] for the desired track parameter page to reset. ▌ RESET / RESTORE PARAMETER PAGES 1. Press [Page] to select a track parameter page where [Page] is the track parameter page. 2. Press [Page] + [NO] for the desired track parameter page part to reset. This restores to the previously saved settings. ▌ VIEW PARAMETER VALUES 1. Press and hold [Page] to see the values assigned to the parameters where [Page] is the track parameter page.
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 23 Architecture2 NOTES 2.11 Copy, Clear & Paste There are several functions that are common through the Octatrack feature set which help to speed up when integrated into your workflow. This is especially useful for repeat tasks. Copy, Clear and Paste are three such features and these can be found as secondary options on the transport buttons. They can be used in multiple scenarios some of which are summarised here. While the [FUNC] key is the default to access the secondary options, some functions may use an alternative button. For example copy, paste, clear in the scene edit page uses the scene [A] + [B] + [REC] ie Copy etc instead of the [FUNC] button. Access to these options may also be dependant on the mode in use. As an example, some operate in GRID RECORDING mode while others may only work when not in GRID RECORDING mode. The use of copy, clear, paste is therefore context dependent. COPY Record CLEAR Play PASTE Stop + [REC] [PLAY] Repeat the command i.e. [FUNC] + [PLAY] to clear, then [FUNC] + [PLAY] to ‘undo’ the previous command. [FUNC] is the default to access secondary options but others are also designated for specific functions. [STOP]
24 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 2 Architecture NOTES Examples:- • Track settings can be copied from within GRID RECORDING mode. This will copy trigs, parameters, parameter locks, machines etc from one track to another. In the track trig edit menu, only trigs are affected. • For track parameter pages use [Page] + [REC] etc to copy, paste, clear where Page is [SRC], [AMP], [LFO], [FX1] or [FX2]. • LFO Designer page allows the copy, paste, clear functions so that user designed LFO’s can be copied across other tracks. • Single or multiple trigs can be copied, cleared, pasted in GRID RECORDING mode along with its settings ie locks, e.g. Press Trig [1] + [REC] and then Trig [2] + [STOP] to copy from trig step 1 to step 2. • Patterns and banks can be copied from one slot to another. Particularly useful workflow practice when creating alternate pattern variation edits which can be copied across pattern slots in the same or another bank. • Naming menu, the copy, paste, clear are available. • To copy, paste, clear scenes, use the scene button (instead of the func button) plus the option required, e.g. [A] + [REC] to copy and [B] + [STOP] to paste. • Parts can be copied, pasted and cleared between slots 1-4 from within the parts edit menu. • Arrangement edit menu, the copy, paste, clear are available. • Arpeggiator setup menu for MIDI, the sequence data can be copied, pasted, cleared.
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 25 Architecture2 Number of characters available is different when naming parts and arrangements. The character count is displayed in the bottom right of the display. Press [YES} when complete to exit the naming menu. The secondary option, copy, paste and clear functions are also available within the naming menu: [FUNC] + [REC] for Copy, [FUNC] + [PLAY] for Clear and [FUNC] + [STOP] for Paste. [UP] [DOWN] 2.12 Naming Menu Some functions have the option to name or rename, for example when saving a pattern. These menus are selected automatically and appear when naming or renaming is required. [LEFT] & [RIGHT] navigate between the current characters [UP] & [DOWN] or (LEVEL) to select character or second character page [FUNC] + [NO] Erase Character [CUE] + [NO] Erase Character without pop-up menu. Insert space using the space character POP UP CHARACTER MENU Hold [FUNC] for pop-up mode. While holding, navigate to highlight the character required with [UP], [DOWN], [RIGHT or [LEFT]. Release [FUNC] to Insert character highlighted. 4
26 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES
A set is the main structural container for everything in Octatrack. A set is the highest level in the device hierarchy. Sets are stored on the compact flash card. Each set contains a collection of projects and a single audio pool. The number of projects is only limited by the compact card memory size. Sets and projects are organised in folder structures and can be managed using the project menu and the card tools file manager. Samples in the audio pool are accessible to all of the projects within the same set. Many users may only need one set and can develop new projects within that set. A ‘factory’ set called PRESETS is supplied on the Elektron Octatrack compact flash card along with a set of audio samples in the audio pool. For a set to be available for access, the compact flash card should be inserted and the a set should be mounted in the Octatrack. Individual projects can then be accessed. A project would also need to be loaded for it to be available to the user for editing and playback. A project contains the discrete components such as tracks, parts etc. To use an analogy to help ease of understanding think of a an album or a live gig / concert where a collection of songs are played under a single event. Using this as an example, think of the set as the album or gig and projects can be considered as the individual songs on the album or played during the gig set list. This of course is one metaphor, but the use of sets and projects to structure your workflow will be adopted to suit your own needs over time. In summary sets and projects are structural elements that help organise your work. These are the starting points when creating ‘from scratch’ and in developing musical tracks and songs. Establishing a good practise in using these features will also speed up workflow and make project management an easy task. Sets & Projects 3 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 27
28 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 3.1 Whats in a Set and Project? Sets are the highest element in the Octatrack hierarchy and contain a series of projects and each set has an audio pool to host the sets samples. The folders and files supporting these functions are located and created on the compact flash card. NOTES 3 Sets & Projects ProjectA ProjectB Audio SetA Set PackA Arr01.strd Bank01.strd Markers.strd Project.strd Arr01.work Bank01.work Markers.work Project.work Sample100 One Audio Pool per set is created. These are initially created when creating a set but are empty and will require samples to be added. Samples and sample sub folders can be added and created. .strd files are the saved files using the project save function. .work files are automatically stored from the currently active project. All files in the project folder belong to that project. Some elements such as banks can be copied to others but not all data ie samples, associated are copied. 8 Arrangements (16 files) 16 Banks (16 files) General project markers General project settings Multiple projects can be created in a set. The limitation is only based on the available memory space on the compact flash card. Sets and Projects are named as created or renamed later. Folders are tagged in the file manager with a (D) Sample1 Sample101 Sample102 Sample2
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 29 3.2 Accessing Set and Project Folders. There are a number of alternatives to access the compact flash card folders and files. The most common requirement is to populate the audio pool folder with samples. Also file and folder management may also be required to help structure. NOTES Sets & Projects3 OCTACARD CP CARD FOR OCTATRACK 866x PROFESSIONAL 32GB CARD TOOLS The file manager and format card options are available for ‘in the box’ file management as on board Octatrack tools. This book section will mainly focus on these options. USB DISK MODE Enables access to the installed compact flash and its folders from a USB connected PC or Mac. This book section will briefly touch on this option. EXTERNAL PC / MAC Access to the removed compact flash folders & files via a PC / Mac connected compatible card reader. This book section will briefly touch on this option
30 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 3.3 Mounting & Creating Sets Sets are located on the compact flash card which needs to be mounted so that the projects and the audio pool is available and accessible. Managing sets is done within the project menu. ▌ MOUNTING A SET - FIRST TIME. 1. With Octatrack powered off, insert the compact flash card into the slot at the rear of the Octatrack. 2. Power on the Octatrack. If a set has not been previously mounted a message will indicate that a set needs to be mounted. 3. At the prompt window, press [YES] to open the set selection pop-up. 4. Highlight the set to open using [UP] or [DOWN] or turn (LEVEL). The factory ‘PRESETS’ option will be available if the Elektron Octatrack compact flash card is inserted. 5. When the desired set is highlighted press [YES] again to mount the set to make it accessible and enable project loading. 6. The load project prompt pop-up window will open, requesting the loading of a project from the mounted set. 7. Highlight the project to open using [UP] or [DOWN] or turn (LEVEL). The factory ‘PRESETS’ project should be available if the PRESETS set is mounted. 8. When the desired project is highlighted press [YES] again to load the project for editing and playback. NOTES 3 Sets & Projects
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 31 ▌ MOUNTING THE PREVIOUS SET & PROJECT. 1. Power on the Octatrack. The compact flash card should be already installed. 2. When powered up the previously mounted set and previously loaded project will be automatically restored and available for continued use. ▌ MOUNTING A SET MANUALLY. 1. Power on the Octatrack. A compact flash card should be installed. A set and project will typically be automatically mounted / loaded. 2. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 3. Highlight the PROJECT option by pressing [UP] or [DOWN]. 4. Press [RIGHT] or [YES] to select and move the cursor to highlight the options in the PROJECT section. 5. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the CHANGE option located under the SET section. 6. Press [YES] to select CHANGE. The set list will open and present the available sets from the compact flash card. Note: If the currently active project is not already saved in the set an additional prompt message will be shown, ‘NOT WITHIN A PROJECT. CHANGES MADE WILL BE DISCARDED. CONTINUE?. This will indicate that the project data will be lost. Project would need to be saved prior to avoid this. Press [YES] to continue to change the set. 7. Highlight the set to open using [UP] or [DOWN]. Current set is shown inverted text. 8. When the desired set is highlighted press [YES] again to synchronise and mount the set to make it accessible and enable project loading. [NO] to cancel. 9. The load project prompt pop-up window will open, requesting the loading of a project from the newly mounted set. 10. Highlight the project to open using [UP] or [DOWN] or turn (LEVEL). 11. When the desired project is highlighted press [YES] again to load the project for editing and playback. [NO] to cancel. NOTES Sets & Projects3
32 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide ▌ CREATING A NEW SET. 1. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 2. Highlight the PROJECT option by pressing [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll. 3. Press [RIGHT] or [YES] to select and move the cursor to highlight the options in the PROJECT section. 4. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the CHANGE option located under the SET section. 5. Press [YES] to select CHANGE. The set list will open and present the available sets from the compact flash card. Note: If the currently active project is not already saved in the set an additional prompt message will be shown, ‘NOT WITHIN A PROJECT. CHANGES MADE WILL BE DISCARDED. CONTINUE?. This will indicate that the project data will be lost. Project would need to be saved to avoid this. Press [YES] to continue to change the set. 7. Highlight the <CREATE A NEW SET> option using [UP] or [DOWN]. 8. When highlighted, press [YES] again to create the set to make it accessible and enable project loading. [NO] to cancel. 9. The naming menu will open in order to assign a name for the newly created set. Create a name of your choice. The default name will be in the format ‘Set yearmonthday’ but this can be edited. 10. Press [YES] to accept the name and return to the set selection list. Selecting the new set will also require a project to be created and loaded. NOTES 3 Sets & Projects
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 33 NOTES Sets & Projects3 ▌ USING A NEW COMPACT FLASH CARD. 1. With the Octatrack powered off, remove the compact flash card and insert the new formatted blank card. 2. It is possible that the ‘WRONG COMPACT FLASH INSERTED, CONTINUE?’ Message appears indicating that a previously loaded project and set isn't available. Press [YES]. 3. If the card isn't formatted the option to format is available in card tools. • Press [PROJ] to open project menu options. • Select SYSTEM, then select CARD TOOLS • Select FORMAT CARD • The naming menu will open to set a name for the card. Select a name and then press [YES] to format. 4. The option to <CREATE NEW SET> is presented automatically. Press [YES] to create a new set. For a newly formatted card this option my need to be manually applied. 5. The naming menu allows a new set to be named. Press [YES] when complete to confirm. 6. The option to <CREATE EMPTY PROJECT> is presented. Press [YES] to create a new project within the selected set. 7. The naming menu allows a new project to be named. Press [YES] when complete to confirm. 8. The folder structures are created for the set, projects and the set audio pool. Note that the audio pool is simply created as an empty folder. For this to be useful within the set and its projects, samples will need to be loaded into the audio pool. It is recommended to keep a back up of the compact flash card either to a PC / Mac hard drive or on a spare backup compact flash card.
34 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 3 Sets & Projects 3.4 Creating and Managing Projects. Projects are located within sets. Opening a set will prompt to also open a project. Projects can also be accessed and managed individually. ▌ CREATING A NEW PROJECT. 1. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 2. Press [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll and highlight PROJECT. 3. Press [YES] or [RIGHT] when PROJECT is highlighted to move to the options selections. 4. Press [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll and highlight CHANGE option located under the PROJECT options. 5. Press [YES] to select the highlighted CHANGE option and open the project selection pop-up list. 6. Highlight <CREATE EMPTY PROJECT> using [UP] or [DOWN] or turn (LEVEL) to scroll the selection bounding box. The currently open project will show as inverted text in the list. 7. Press [YES] to create. The naming menu opens and the default or new name can be created. 8. Press [YES] when complete to confirm the name and create the new project within the set.
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 35 NOTES Sets & Projects3 ▌ LOADING / CHANGING A PROJECT. 1. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 2. Press [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll and highlight PROJECT. 3. Press [YES] or [RIGHT] when PROJECT is highlighted to move to the options selections. 4. Press [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll and highlight CHANGE option located under the PROJECT options. 5. Press [YES] to select the highlighted CHANGE option and open the project selection pop-up list. 6. Highlight the project to open using [UP] or [DOWN] or turn (LEVEL) to scroll the selection bounding box on the new project to load. The currently open project will show as inverted text in the list. 7. When the desired project is highlighted press [YES] to sync the existing project and then load the new project for editing and playback. 8. The project is now active and changes will be applied into the loaded project.
36 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 3 Sets & Projects ▌ DELETING A PROJECT. 1. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 2. Press [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll and highlight PROJECT. 3. Press [YES] or [RIGHT] when PROJECT is highlighted to move to the options selections. 4. Press [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll and highlight CHANGE option located under the PROJECT options. 5. Press [YES] to select the highlighted CHANGE option and open the project selection pop-up list. 6. Highlight the project to delete using [UP] or [DOWN] or turn (LEVEL) to scroll the selection bounding box on the project to delete. The currently open project will show as inverted text in the list. 7. When the desired project is highlighted press [FUNC] + [BANK] to open the delete / rename pop-up option menu. 8. Press [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight DELETE. The selected option is shown as inverted in the pop-up menu. 9. Press [YES] to delete. A prompt may appear stating ‘THIS PROJECT IS ACTIVE! UNLOAD AND DELETE IT?’ confirm deletion. Press [YES] again to accept and delete. Pressing [FUNC] + [BANK] in the project selection list page opens the RENAME & DELETE pop-up options menu +
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 37 NOTES Sets & Projects3 ▌ RENAMING A PROJECT. 1. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 2. Press [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll and highlight PROJECT. 3. Press [YES] or [RIGHT] when PROJECT is highlighted to move to the options selections. 4. Press [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll and highlight CHANGE option located under the PROJECT options. 5. Press [YES] to select the highlighted CHANGE option and open the project selection pop-up list. 6. Highlight the project to rename using [UP] or [DOWN] or turn (LEVEL) to scroll the selection bounding box on the project to rename. The currently open project will show as inverted text in the list. The currently active project cannot be renamed, only unloaded projects in the list can be renamed. 7. When the desired project is highlighted press [FUNC] + [BANK] to open the delete / rename pop-up option menu. 8. Press [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight RENAME. 9. Press [YES] to rename. The naming pop-up function will appear with the current name ready to edit. 10. Press [YES] when renaming is completed.
38 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 3 Sets & Projects 3.5 Project Options in the Project Menu The main menu for managing projects and sets is found by pressing [PROJ] and opening the PROJECT options. Several functions exist here, some of which are used for managing banks and samples as well as projects and sets. Section Function What does it do? PROJECT CHANGE Opens the project selection list of available projects in the set. Allows changing from the current project to another one in the set. Also the pop-up list has a <CREATE EMPTY PROJECT> Option for creating a new, blank project. Projects can be renamed or deleted within the CHANGE function, by pressing [FUNC] + [BANK] when the project list is displayed. PROJECT SAVE Saves the current project. This performs the same function as [FUNC] + [PROJ]. If the project hasn’t been saved before, a ‘save project as’ is initiated and the naming window opens to assign a project name. Note: Projects are automatically saved in a compact flash cache so will always be up to date when Octatrack is switched off and the manual save function is not always necessary. PROJECT RELOAD Restores the current project from its previously saved state. While a project state is always up to date in the compact flash cache, this is Ideal to revert to the actual saved version for example to step back from recent edits. PROJECT SYNC TO CARD. Synchronizes the project data from the cache to the compact flash card. This should be used before the compact flash card is to be removed to ensure the project cache and saved state information is retained and no data is lost. PROJECT SAVE TO NEW Saves the current project as a new project and is assigned a new name. The ‘save project as’ pop-up menu prompts a new name to be assigned. The default name is ‘PROJECT yearmonthday’. Useful for saving variations of projects as its development evolves and changes. PROJECT EXPORT TO SET Exports the current project to another set. This will export the project including any flex and static machine samples, project folder samples and audio pool samples. A new destination set can be created during this process which also ensures only relevant and used samples are copied to the new audio pool. Project options with the PROJECT section Indicates other options are available by scrolling PROJECT Options Current Set and Project
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 39 NOTES Sets & Projects3 3.6 File Manager Access to manage set and project folders and files can be handled in the file manager found under ‘CARD TOOLS’ in the SYSTEM options under the [PROJ] menu. This offers options such as delete, copy / paste, make directory and rename of set and project folders and files. The file manager options are selected using the track parameter buttons. Each selects the respective function when the file manager page and options are displayed. (D) represents a folder directory while samples and files will indicate the file size. FILE MANAGER or FORMAT CARD. Section Function What does it do? FILE MANAGER MK DIR Make directory. Creates a new directory on the compact flash card in the selected location. FILE MANAGER RENAME Changes the name of an existing folder or file FILE MANAGER DELETE Deletes an existing folder or file from the compact flash card. FILE MANAGER COPY Copies an existing folder or file located on the compact flash card. FILE MANAGER CUT Copies and removes a file (not directories) to allow it to pasted to another location. This lifts and drops rather than creating a copy. This option is available in the COPY slot when pressing [FUNC] in the file manager FILE MANAGER PASTE Pastes a copied folder or file to a selected location on the compact flash card. FILE MANAGER Workspace 1 Location Marker Hold [T1] - [T4] to store the current folder location as a marker to ‘Workspace 1’ which can then be recalled Pressing [T1] - [T4] FILE MANAGER Workspace 2 Location Marker Hold [T5] - [T8] to store the current folder location as a marker to ‘Workspace 2’ which can then be recalled Pressing [T5] - [T8]
40 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 3 Sets & Projects ▌ DELETING AN EXISTING SET FOLDER. 1. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 2. Highlight the SYSTEM option by pressing [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll. 3. Press [RIGHT] or [YES] to select and move the cursor to highlight the options in the right menu section. 4. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the CARD TOOLS option. 5. Press [YES] to select CARD TOOLS. The options menu opens. 6. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the FILE MANAGER option. 7. Press [YES] to select FILE MANAGER. The project will synchronise to the compact flash card and the contents of the set presented. • Press [LEFT] or [RIGHT] to navigate up and down through the highlighted folder levels on the compact flash card structure. • Press [UP] or [DOWN] to navigate between folders and files. The selected item is shown highlighted as inverted text. • The (D) tag indicates a directory folder in the items listed and for files and samples the file size is indicated. • The set folders are at the highest level in the folder hierarchy. 8. With the set folder to delete highlighted, press [LFO]. The track parameter buttons represents the file manager options i.e. [LFO] represents DELETE. 9. A prompt screen will indicate the number of directories to be deleted. This includes the targeted root folder and any subfolders. Press [YES] to confirm deletion of the directory of the set. Press [NO] to cancel. .
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 41 NOTES Sets & Projects3 ▌ RENAMING AN EXISTING SET FOLDER. 1. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 2. Highlight the SYSTEM option by pressing [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll. 3. Press [RIGHT] or [YES] to select and move the cursor to highlight the options in the right menu section. 4. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the CARD TOOLS option. 5. Press [YES] to select CARD TOOLS. The options menu opens. 6. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the FILE MANAGER option. 7. Press [YES] to select FILE MANAGER. The project will synchronise to the compact flash card and the contents of the set presented. • Press [LEFT] or [RIGHT] to navigate up and down through the highlighted folder levels on the compact flash card structure. • Press [UP] or [DOWN] to navigate between folders and files. The selected item is shown highlighted inverted text. • The (D) tag indicates a directory folder in the items listed and for files and samples the file size is indicated. 8. With the set folder to rename highlighted, press [AMP]. The track parameter buttons represent the file manager options i.e. [AMP] represents RENAME. 9. The naming pop-up function will open and allow the name to be edited. Press [YES] to confirm the new set name. Press [NO] to cancel.
42 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 3 Sets & Projects ▌ DELETING AN EXISTING PROJECT FOLDER. 1. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 2. Highlight the SYSTEM option by pressing [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll. 3. Press [RIGHT] or [YES] to select and move the cursor to highlight the options in the right menu section. 4. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the CARD TOOLS option. 5. Press [YES] to select CARD TOOLS. The options menu opens. 6. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the FILE MANAGER option. 7. Press [YES] to select FILE MANAGER. The project will synchronise to the compact flash card and the contents of the set presented. • Press [LEFT] or [RIGHT] to navigate up and down through the highlighted folder levels on the compact flash card structure. • Press [UP] or [DOWN] to navigate between folders and files. The selected item is shown highlighted inverted text. • The (D) tag indicates a directory folder in the items listed and for files and samples the file size is indicated. 8. With the project folder to delete highlighted, press [LFO].The track parameter buttons represent the file manager options i.e. [LFO] represents DELETE. 9. A prompt screen will indicate the number of directories and files to be deleted. This includes the targeted root folder, any subfolders and files. Press [YES] to confirm deletion of the directory of the project. Press [NO] to cancel.
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 43 NOTES Sets & Projects3 ▌ RENAMING AN EXISTING PROJECT FOLDER. 1. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 2. Highlight the SYSTEM option by pressing [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll. 3. Press [RIGHT] or [YES] to select and move the cursor to highlight the options in the right menu section. 4. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the CARD TOOLS option. 5. Press [YES] to select CARD TOOLS. The options menu opens. 6. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the FILE MANAGER option. 7. Press [YES] to select FILE MANAGER. The project will synchronise to the compact flash card and the contents of the set presented. • Press [LEFT] or [RIGHT] to navigate up and down through the highlighted folder levels on the compact flash card structure. • Press [UP] or [DOWN] to navigate between folders and files. The selected item is shown highlighted inverted text. • The (D) tag indicates a directory folder in the items listed and for files and samples the file size is indicated. 8. With the project folder to rename highlighted, press [AMP]. The track parameter buttons represent the file manager options i.e. [AMP] represents RENAME. 9. The naming pop-up function will open and allow the name to be edited. Press [YES] to confirm the new set name. Press [NO] to cancel.
44 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 3 Sets & Projects ▌ CREATE A NEW FOLDER ON THE COMPACT FLASH. 1. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 2. Highlight the SYSTEM option by pressing [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll. 3. Press [RIGHT] or [YES] to select and move the cursor to highlight the options in the right menu section. 4. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the CARD TOOLS option. 5. Press [YES] to select CARD TOOLS. The options menu opens. 6. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the FILE MANAGER option. 7. Press [YES] to select FILE MANAGER. The project will synchronise to the compact flash card and the contents of the set presented. • Press [LEFT] or [RIGHT] to navigate up and down through the highlighted folder levels on the compact flash card structure. • Press [UP] or [DOWN] to navigate between folders and files. The selected item is shown highlighted inverted text. • The (D) tag indicates a directory folder in the items listed and for files and samples the file size is indicated. 8. When at the desired folder level (i.e. set, project level or in the audio folder) press [SRC]. The track parameter buttons represent the file manager options i.e. [SRC] represents MK DIR - Make Directory. 9. The naming pop-up function will open and allow the name to be edited. Press [YES] to confirm the new set name. Press [NO] to cancel. ▌ CREATING MARKERS FOR RECALL OF FILE LOCATIONS 1. Navigate to a location in the folder structure to be remembered for future quick recall. Hold [T1] - [T4] to create a ‘Workspace 1’ marker. 2. Navigate to a location in the folder structure to be remembered for future quick recall. Hold [T5] - [T8] to create a ‘Workspace 2’ marker. 3. Press [T1] - [T4] to jump directly to the ‘Workspace 1’ marked location. 4. Press [T5] - [T8] to jump directly to the ‘Workspace 2’ marked location
The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 45 NOTES Sets & Projects3 ▌ COPYING, CUTTING & PASTING ON THE COMPACT FLASH. 1. Press [PROJ] to open the project menu. 2. Highlight the SYSTEM option by pressing [UP] or [DOWN] to scroll. 3. Press [RIGHT] or [YES] to select and move the cursor to highlight the options in the right menu section. 4. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the CARD TOOLS option. 5. Press [YES] to select CARD TOOLS. The options menu opens. 6. Scroll using [UP] or [DOWN] to highlight the FILE MANAGER option. 7. Press [YES] to select FILE MANAGER. The project will synchronise to the compact flash card and the contents of the set presented. • Press [LEFT] or [RIGHT] to navigate up and down through the highlighted folder levels on the compact flash card structure. • Press [UP] or [DOWN] to navigate between folders and files. The selected item is shown highlighted inverted text. • The (D) tag indicates a directory folder in the items listed and for files and samples the file size is indicated. • The track parameter buttons represent the file manager options i.e. [FX1] represents COPY, [FUNC] + [FX1] represents CUT, [FX2] represents PASTE. The use of these functions will depend on what is being copied and to where. • Some locations cannot be copied and directories can’t be cut. For example if a named folder already exists. This may require a 3-step process to copy to another folder, rename, copy/paste back to original folder. The hierarchy of sets / projects should be honoured. • Banks wont copy samples and machine slots may not align. 8. Highlight the desired target source to copy or cut. Press [FX1] to copy or [SHIFT] + [FX1] to cut. 9. Navigate to the destination location. Press [FX2] to paste the previously copied / cut element. Warning: When cutting and copying in the file manager, projects may be corrupted if the incorrect parts are removed or relocated using the card tools options. Care must be taken.
46 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 3 Sets & Projects 3.7 Introduction to the Audio Pool Each set has an audio pool. While this is created at the same time as the new set, it will initially be an empty folder. The factory supplied PRESETS set does come with an audio pool populated with samples and can be used to learn and develop an understanding of the audio pool. For new sets and projects, samples firstly need to be placed into the audio pool for them to be available for playback from a static or flex machine. The audio pool is located on the compact flash card and any samples would typically be transferred in from a PC / Mac either connected via USB mode to the Octatrack's installed card or extracting the card and using it directly with a PC / Mac and card reader. Audio Samples OCTACARD CP CARD FOR OCTATRACK 866x PROFESSIONAL 32GB Compact Card extracted and used with a PC/Mac with a card reader Sample1 Sample1 Sample50 MySample5 Sample50 MySample5 MyPack MySample75 MySample75 Maximum of 1024 files or sub-folders can be located in the audio pool. MyPack MySample200 MySample200 USB Disk Mode Presents the Octatrack to a USB connected PC or Mac as a mounted disk where the folders and files can be accessed and managed SET AUDIO POOL USER SAMPLE LIBRARY Sample Size Audio Quality Notes on sample selection: Octatrack can use mono or stereo audio files in the format of Aiff or Wav, 16bit or 24bit at 44.1kHz. There are two things to consider and in fact to balance when selecting files. Files at 24bit, 44.1kHz will be higher sound quality but will take up more memory. This isn't a major storage concern but it is a consideration when using flex machines and where RAM memory is limited. 16 bit files will be smaller but audio quality is at a lower level than 24bit equivalents. Stereo files will be approx twice as big as mono files. File conversion tools are available than can prepare or convert samples to the format to best suit your needs.