Octatrack Notebook 1v40a

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 397 MIDI Mode Page Access. Octatracks MIDI Mode essentially controls the MIDI sequencer and its 8 MIDI Tracks allowing more precise and specific MIDI application especially to control external gear such as other synths. The settings exist in the two track parameter pages - setup and main. These change from the normal audio functions to the MIDI specific parameters when in MIDI Mode. The functions labelled under each of the track parameter button represent the functions when in MIDI Mode. This section will still refer to the main button name i.e. the MIDI Mode Note page will be referred to as [SRC]. The command button operation is almost identical to when working in the audio tracks and as such a similar process and conventions should continue to apply when in MIDI Mode. However some parameter changes require a specific command to change a parameter such as [FUNC] + Press on some Data Entry controls. MIDI Channel per Track ‘X’ No Channel assigned MIDI Channel for the selected Track Selected Track 5 main track parameter functions. Press [Param Page] e.g. [SRC] Plus 5 set up pages. Press [FUNC] + [Param Page] or quick double press button + Track Parameter buttons are labelled underneath the button with the MIDI Mode specific function Press [MIDI] to activate MIDI Mode. Button lit yellow when MIDI Mode is Active NOTES MIDI 14

398 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 14 MIDI 14.8 Note Page Track Parameters NOTES MIDI notes and their attributes such as length and velocity are set within the main page. Also the overall channel configuration is found in the Notes Setup page. Program and bank changes are useful for changing patches on external synths and devices. Note: Press [YES] or the press the Data Entry knob to confirm the change. Notes Setup Menu [SRC] [SRC] Or double press [SRC] (A) (D) (B) (E) (C) (F) (A) CHAN Data Entry (B) BANK Data Entry (C) PROG Data Entry Channel to Send MIDI Bank Change Length of sample Sets the MIDI channel that MIDI data will be sent to. Setting of OFF will send not send across any channel. Channel is shown in place of machines per track. Send a main (MSB) Bank Change message. This is triggered with a change to activate a pattern linked to another part. When off no bank messages are sent. Send a PC - Program Change message. This is triggered with a change to activate a pattern linked to another part. When off no PC messages are sent. Off, 1-16 Off, 0-127 Off, 0-127 (D) Data Entry (E) SBNK Data Entry (F) Data Entry Sub-Bank Change Send a main (LSB) Sub-Bank Change message. This is triggered with a change to activate a pattern linked to another part. When off no bank messages are sent. Off, 0-127 +

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 399 NOTES MIDI 14 ▌CHANGING PARAMETERS ON THE NOTE SETUP PAGE The controls here need an extra step than normal. Just changing the parameter does not activate the change. Note that this is applicable in the setup page only. The note main page parameters can be changed directly. 1. Each of the four setup page parameters is represented by four of the data entry controls (A), (B), (C), (E). 2. Turn the Data Entry control, (A), (B), (C), or (E). An inverted display for the parameter will indicate the value, although at this stage it is still inactive. Turning a Data Entry control alone does not render it active. 3. To activate a change to the parameter, Press the Data Entry, (A), (B), (C), or (E). This will change to normal, not inverted display of the parameter to indicate the value displayed is now active. 4. Alternatively, Press [YES] to activate a change in a parameter. As a tip it is recommended to use [YES] rather than press the data entry encoder. This is due to the sensitive nature of the encoder rotation which is likely to change accidentally while pressing. 5. When changing the MIDI channel parameter (A), the surrounding track indicators either side of the display, change from machines in audio tracks to the MIDI channel in MIDI Mode. An ‘x’ indicates that channel assignment for the track if off.

400 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 14 MIDI NOTES The specific note attributes are adjusted in the Notes Main page. Chords can also be created. Chords can have a maximum of 4 notes each of which is an offset from the root note. * Holding the Trig in GRID RECORDING Mode will visualise the note on a keyboard for easy adjustment. This can also be applied to the 3 root offset notes. Enter notes by holding [TRIG] + Turn (A), (D), (E), or (F) LEN - Length duration options. Each Trig in the sequencer represents 1/16th by default in the pattern. Scale settings can adjust the pattern attributes. 0 - 2, 1/32, 4 - 5, 1/16, 7 - 8, 3/32, 10 - 11, 1/8, 13 - 14, 5/32, 16 - 17, 3/16, 19 - 20, 7/32, 22 - 23, 1/4, 25 - 26, 9/32, 28 - 29, 6/16, 31 - 35, 3/8, 37 - 41, 7/16, 43 - 47, 1/2, 49 - 53, 9/16, 55 - 59, 5/8, 61 - 71, 3/4, 73 - 83, 7/8, 85 - 95, 1/1, 97 - 107, 9/8, 109 - 119, 11/8, 121 - 125, 6/3, Infinite. Notes Main Menu [SRC] (A) (D) (B) (E) (C) (F) (A) NOTE Data Entry (B) VEL Data Entry (C) LEN Data Entry Root Note Velocity Duration of Note The root note sent to the MIDI channel for the track. Holding Trig in GRID RECORDING will visualise a keyboard for easy note adjustment by data entry (A) *. Sets the velocity for notes sent on the MIDI channel for the track. A Value = 0 acts like like a ‘NOTE OFF’ message. Length of note, a ‘NOTE OFF’ message is sent at the end. Option for infinite note length. Also affects how the arpeggio cuts off at its end. C-1 to G9, Default C3 0-127, Default 100 See Table Below, default 1/16 (D) NOT2 Data Entry (E) NOT3 Data Entry (F) NOT4 Data Entry 2 nd Offset to Root Note 3 rd Offset to Root Note 4 th Offset to Root Note A second note which is added and offset from the root note. It is linked to the root note and will transpose when the root is changed. Allows chords to be created. * A third note which is added and offset from the root note. It is linked to the root note and will transpose when the root is changed. Allows chords to be created. * Final and fourth note which is added and offset from the root note. It is linked to the root note and will transpose when the root is changed. Allows chords to be created. * -64 C-1 to +63 D#8, Default 0 = Off -64 C-1 to +63 D#8, Default 0 = Off -64 C-1 to +63 D#8, Default 0 = Off

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 401 NOTES MIDI 14 ▌SETTING UP NOTES AND CHORDS IN A MIDI TRACK 1. Ensure the Octatrack and external device (synth) MIDI channel and settings are configured to communicate together. 2. With MIDI Mode on, select the Notes Main page, Press [SRC]. 3. Select GRID RECORDING Mode, Press [REC]. 4. Select the track to sequence, Press Track [T1] - [T8] and set the Trigs to suit the pattern desired. The defaults of the note parameters will be set on each trig. 5. To adjust a note, Hold Trig [1] - 16] + Turn (A) to set the root note of the selected trig. While holding the Trig a visual display of the keyboard notes is shown to make note selection easy. 6. To adjust a note velocity, Hold Trig [1] - 16] + Turn (B) to set the root note velocity. Creating slight velocity variations can add a natural feel. 7. To adjust a note length, Hold Trig [1] - 16] + Turn (C) to set the root note duration. 8. To create chords, add further notes by turning the Data Entry controls, (D), (E), (F). Also holding the Trig will visualise the keyboard for easier entry. Note that entered values are offsets from the root note and will also automatically transpose when the root note is changed. 9. Press [PLAY] to hear the results. Trigs Set Default is C3 MIDI Out Velocity Slight variation for a natural feel 100 110 95 105 1/4 1/4 1/4 1/8 NOT2 +4 E C NOT2 +7 G NOT3 0 Length Duration of Note. Additional Notes Create a Chord e.g. C Major Example 1 16 Tip, setting infinite note lengths for a drone style can be halted by applying a parameter lock to set velocity to zero and hence apply a note off message.

402 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 14 MIDI 14.9 MIDI Arpeggiator NOTES MIDI Mode also contains a MIDI Arpeggiator, also called Arp. Once triggered by a sequencer trig, the Arp generates a pattern from the series of notes in the MIDI Note page. Think of an Arp as a melody generator than applies a sub-pattern onto individual trigs. The Arp and the MIDI Note trigs have a symbiotic (yes that is a big word!) relationship. This simply means both the MIDI Notes and the Arp rely on each other. The parameters operate together in harmony in order fully function. ▌ARP SETUP CONSIDERATIONS • The Arp generates a pattern based on the MIDI Notes and Arp Settings. • Incoming MIDI notes will be arpeggiated based on the Arp settings of the MIDI Track. • The Arp is triggered not only by the trig applied into a pattern, but is also based on the root note in the Notes page. • The Arp Key Scale (Arp Setup Page) also affects the MIDI track note trig irrespective of whether the Arp Mode is on or off. • The Arp Transpose (Arp Main Page) also affects the MIDI track note trig behaviour irrespective of whether the Arp Mode is on or off. • The Arp Legato On/Off (Arp Main Page) also affects the MIDI track note trig behaviour irrespective of whether the Arp Mode is on or off. • The order of the notes affect the Arp Mode behaviour. For example ‘True’ mode reflects the notes, if played in, in order. • This is only a MIDI Arp. To replicate an Arp in Audio tracks try using the LFO designer. Also consider MIDI Loopback (MIDI Out to MIDI In) and use the MIDI Arp to drive an Audio Track. Be careful with MIDI settings, on loopback which if incorrect can crash the Octatrack. MIDI Mode Notes Main Page 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 4

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 403 How Does the Arp Work? NOTES MIDI 14 The Arp will be triggered by a MIDI Mode pattern trig and any set notes. The Trig length - LEN will determine the duration of how long the Arp plays. Example: Trig has LEN set to 1/2 which will cover 8 steps of the pattern With the default Arp pattern, length (16 steps) and speed (x6 = 1/16th) the notes would match the sequencer. In this example the first 8 steps would trigger on the Arp. The Arp pattern will trigger the notes as per the MIDI Note Main page. If only the root note is set it will continuously trigger this single note. Example: Note = B1 Up to 4 notes can be entered in the Notes page, which then will be used in the Arp cycle. Example: Note = B1, Not2 = G2, Not4 = B2. Only notes entered are played and if recorded in externally, will reflect the order played. This is where a melodic musical sequence now starts to develop. By increasing the Range RNG the pattern can cycle up through the octave ranges before restarting at the original position. The pattern can be changed using Arp Mode. Instead of playing in the defined note order (True), other variations such as up, down, etc can be applied to affect which note is played at what point in the pattern cycle. The pattern pitch offsets per step can also be edited in the Arp Setup Page as well as a number of other attributes found in the Main Page to offer more creative options. B1 B1 B1 G2 B1 B2 B1 B1 B1 G2 B1 B2 B1 B1 B1 G2 Octave 1 Up Down Octave 2

404 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 14 MIDI NOTES The Arpeggiator setup page allows the length and note steps to be edited. In addition the defined key scale can be set. KEY - Scale for the track. Will apply to the Arpeggiator and also will apply to track notes irrespective of whether the Arp Mode is off or on. C Major, C Minor, C# Major, C# Minor, D Major, D Minor, D# Major, D# Minor, E Major, E Minor, F Major, F Minor, F# Major, F# Minor, G Major, G Minor, G# Major, G# Minor, A Major, A Minor, A# Major, A# Minor, B Major, B Minor. Arp Setup Menu [AMP] [AMP] Or double press [AMP] (C) (F) (A) Data Entry (B) Data Entry (C) LEN Data Entry Length of Arp This is the length of the arpeggiator up to a maximum of 16 steps. The Trig keys [1] - [16] also reflect the length. 0-16 + (D) Data Entry (E) Data Entry (F) KEY Data Entry Key Scale Sets the scale for the steps created in the arpeggiator. Notes will only play to the scale set or when off, as placed. Also affects track notes, irrespective of whether arp mode is off or on. See Table Below, Default is Off

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 405 ▌SETTING UP A BASIC MIDI ARP PATTERN 1. Set MIDI Mode On and select the track in which to create the arpeggiator. 2. Select the Arp Setup page, Press [FUNC] + [AMP]. 3. Set the Arp length, Turn Data Entry (C). Maximum steps is 16. 4. Select a key to fix steps to the defined key or retain the key as Off to allow steps to be applied freely. Turn (F) to change key. 5. Press a Trig [1] - [16] to activate (green) or deactivate (red) the respective step. The display will also show a box for active and dash for deactivate steps in the Arp. 6. To change a steps pitch offset, Press Trig [1] - [16] + Turn (LEVEL). The offset will match the set key or be assigned freely if key is off. It is good practice to start with defaults (no offset) and tweak with notes only. 7. To rotate the sequence position, Press [FUNC] + [LEFT] [RIGHT] NOTES MIDI 14 Each of the Arp Steps represented by the 16 Trig Keys. Press a Trig [1] - [16] to toggle it On (Green / Box) or Off (Red / Dash) Press Trig [1] - [16] + Turn (LEVEL) to adjust the step pitch offset -64 to +63 Press [FUNC] + [LEFT] [RIGHT] to rotate the Arp step sequence To activate steps, Press Trig [1] - [16]. Green / Solid Box = Active, Red Trig / Dash is Inactive. To adjust step offsets, to set key, Press a Trig [1] - [16] + Turn (LEVEL) or Press [UP] [DOWN]. To rotate the sequence, Press [FUNC] + [RIGHT] [LEFT]. To set the Arp length, Turn (C). To set the Arp Key, Turn (F).

406 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 14 MIDI NOTES The MIDI Arpeggiator Main page concentrates more on the precise behaviour of the Arp and the specific controls. LEN - Length duration options. Each trig represents 1/16th by default in the pattern. Scale settings can adjust the pattern attributes. 0 - 2, 1/32, 4 - 5, 1/16, 7 - 8, 3/32, 10 - 11, 1/8, 13 - 14, 5/32, 16 - 17, 3/16, 19 - 20, 7/32, 22 - 23, 1/4, 25 - 26, 9/32, 28 - 29, 6/16, 31 - 35, 3/8, 37 - 41, 7/16, 43 - 47, 1/2, 49 - 53, 9/16, 55 - 59, 5/8, 61 - 71, 3/4, 73 - 83, 7/8, 85 - 95, 1/1, 97 - 107, 9/8, 109 - 119, 11/8, 121 - 125, 6/3, Infinite. Arp Main Menu [AMP] (A) (D) (B) (E) (C) (F) (A) TRAN Data Entry (B) LEG Data Entry (C) MODE Data Entry Transpose Semitones Legato Arp Mode Sets the transposition up or down for arpeggiator in semitones. Also affects track notes, irrespective of whether arp mode is off or on. Smoothly connects overlapping note steps in the arpeggiator. Also affects track notes, irrespective of whether arp mode is off or on. Controls how the Arp operates specifically around the direction and order. -64 to +63 On, Off Off, True, Up, Down, Cycl, Shfl, Random (D) SPD Data Entry (E) RNGE Data Entry (F) NLEN Data Entry Speed of Arp Octave Range Note Length Speed of the Arp synchronised to the BPM of the project. 6 equals 1/16th notes, 12 equals 1/8th notes. Divide 96 by the unit value to get the note value. The range which controls the transposition at the end of each Arp cycle. The Arp will step 1 octave up per cycle until range is reached then resets the cycle. Defines the length of the arp note steps. x1 - x96, x6 Default 1-8 Octaves, 1Oct is Default 0-127

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 407 MIDI 14 Arpeggiator Deep Dive & Examples Trigs Arp SPD x6 x12 x24 1 NOTE TRIG LEN & SPD A standard Note trig will activate the step and the Arp (if on). The Arp length can be set to up to 16 steps in the setup page. The SPD Speed parameter is linked to BPM can also determine the number of cycles that the Arp will play until a trig. For example x24 will span 1/4th, so Arp will cycle 4 times in the 16 step pattern. Unit values are available in the SPD setting. To establish a note value from a unit value, divide 96 by the unit. Examples, 96/6 = 16 = 1/16th, 96/24 = 4 =1/4th, 96/48 = 2 = 1/2. LEN Trigs Arp RNGE & KEY The key sets the scale for the arpeggiated notes. In this example C Major (C, D, E, F, G, A, B) would be the scale which the Arp and track trig notes are ‘forced’ into. The Range would allow each cycle to step up 1 octave each cycle before reseting at the end of the range. This example shows a range of 2 octaves. TRAN The entire group of notes in the arpeggio can be transposed in semitones up or down. This is a useful and creative feature when modulated say with an LFO. Transposition also affects the trig notes of the pattern. Octave 1 Octave 2 Trigs Arp 1 NLEN NLEN refers to the note length of each note in the arpeggio. This is not the length of the entire arpeggio (which is covered under the setup page LEN), but refers to all of the actual notes within the 16 available Arp steps. LEG Legato is how the transition from note to note occurs when they overlap both in the Arp and also the pattern note trigs. Legato adds a smooth connecting glide between notes. 1 LEN LEN

408 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 14 MIDI Mode Main Page What Does it Do? Arpeggiated Mode Off Arpeggiator is deactivated. Arpeggiator is off and the Notes will play as chords e.g. CMaj7. The Arp Transpose, Legato and Key Scale will still be applied to notes even if Arp Mode is off. True Plays the notes in the note page. This will reflect the order any external keyboard notes are recorded. Up Plays the notes within the arpeggio starting with the lowest to the highest per octave, in ascending order. Down Plays the notes within the arpeggio starting with the highest to the lowest per octave, in descending order. Cycl Plays the notes within the arpeggio starting with ascending order then in descending order. Shfl Plays the notes within the arpeggio randomly over an octave. If range is higher than 1 octave, it will play all notes of first octave then second etc. Random Will randomise the playback of all notes in the arpeggio. Octave 1 Octave 2 C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E B B B B B B B B B B B B B B B G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G C C C C C C E E E E E E B B B B B B G G G G G G Arpeggiator Modes Examples show; 2 Cycles, Key Scale C Major, Note = C, Not2 = E, Not3 = B, Not4 = G, Arp Length = 8, No Arp Pitch Offsets.

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 409 MIDI 14 NOTES 14.10 MIDI LFO The MIDI Tracks also have LFOs available. These are almost identical in nature and functionally to the Audio Track LFO’s. As such refer to the guidance in for the audio tracks which can also be applied to the MIDI LFO’s. One thing that is different is the destination options. These are therefore covered here. Note that the custom made MIDI LFO designer shapes will only be available to MIDI tracks. LFO Setup Menu [LFO] [LFO] LFO Main Page [LFO] (A) (A) (D) (D) (B) (B) (E) (E) (C) (C) (F) (F)

Page Parameter LFO Destination (Audio Tracks) Note [SRC] NOTE Note Note [SRC] VEL Velocity Note [SRC] LEN Length Note [SRC] NOT2 Note 2 (Chord) Note [SRC] NOT3 Note 3 (Chord) Note [SRC] NOT4 Note 4 (Chord) Arp [AMP] TRAN Transpose Arp [AMP] LEG Legato On / Off Arp [AMP] MODE Arpeggiator Mode Arp [AMP] SPD Speed of Arp Arp [AMP] RNGE Range in Octaves Arp [AMP] NLEN Note Length LFO [LFO] SPD1 Speed LFO 1 LFO [LFO] SPD2 Speed LFO 2 LFO [LFO] SPD3 Speed LFO 3 LFO [LFO] DEP1 Depth of LFO 1 LFO [LFO] DEP2 Depth of LFO 2 LFO [LFO] DEP3 Depth of LFO 3 Ctrl 1 [FX1] PB Pitch Bend Ctrl 1 [FX1] AT After Touch Ctrl 1 [FX1] CC1 Control Change Parameter 1 Ctrl 1 [FX1] CC2 Control Change Parameter 2 Ctrl 1 [FX1] CC3 Control Change Parameter 3 Ctrl 1 [FX1] CC4 Control Change Parameter 4 Ctrl 2 [FX2] CC5 Control Change Parameter 5 Ctrl 2 [FX2] CC6 Control Change Parameter 6 Ctrl 2 [FX2] CC7 Control Change Parameter 7 Ctrl 2 [FX2] CC8 Control Change Parameter 8 Ctrl 2 [FX2] CC9 Control Change Parameter 9 Ctrl 2 [FX2] CC10 Control Change Parameter 10 410 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES LFO - MIDI Destination Parameters. 14 MIDI

NOTES The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 411 MIDI 14 14.11 Control Pages Ctrl 1 & Ctrl 2 The control pages enable up to 10 control change (CC) parameters, numbered CC1-CC10 to be assigned in the CTRL Set Up Pages. The Data Entry knobs in the Main Page then in turn control the external CC parameters. In addition, default Pitch Bend (PB) and After Touch (AT) parameters are also presented for control of external gear. The setup and control principles apply equally to both Ctrl 1 and Ctrl 2. Note that when adjusting these settings an acknowledgement is required by pressing the [YES] button - the recommended option. Alternatively pressing the respective data entry knob will also acknowledge. Ctrl 1 Setup Menu [FX1] (A) (D) (B) (E) (C) (F) (A) Data Entry (B) Data Entry (C) CC1 Data Entry Control Change 1 CC# Sets the CC number that the adjustable value in the CTRL Page will be transmitted to. Various, Default 7 (D) CC2 Data Entry (E) CC3 Data Entry (F) CC4 Data Entry Control Change 2 CC# Control Change 3 CC# Control Change 4 CC# Sets the CC number that the adjustable value in the CTRL Page will be transmitted to. Sets the CC number that the adjustable value in the CTRL Page will be transmitted to. Sets the CC number that the adjustable value in the CTRL Page will be transmitted to. Various, Default 1 Various, Default 2 Various, Default 10

412 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 14 MIDI Note that when adjusting these settings a [FUNC] + Press data entry is required to activate the control. Ctrl 1 Main Menu [FX1] (A) (D) (B) (E) (C) (F) (A) PB Data Entry (B) AT Data Entry (C) CC1 Data Entry Pitch Bend After Touch Value for CC1 Pre-defined CC control for the standard pitch bend message. Pre-defined CC control for the standard after touch message. Adjusts the value that will control or be sent to the external MIDI device. This is used to control the external CC parameter that has been defined in the setup page. 0-127 0-127 0-127 (D) CC2 Data Entry (E) CC3 Data Entry (F) CC4 Data Entry Value for CC2 Value for CC3 Value for CC4 Adjusts the value that will control or be sent to the external MIDI device. This is used to control the external CC parameter that has been defined in the setup page. Adjusts the value that will control or be sent to the external MIDI device. This is used to control the external CC parameter that has been defined in the setup page. Adjusts the value that will control or be sent to the external MIDI device. This is used to control the external CC parameter that has been defined in the setup page. 0-127 0-127 0-127

NOTES The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 413 MIDI 14 The CC Pages. The Ctrl 2 control setup and main pages operate the same as Ctrl 1. The difference is that pressing the [FX2] button gives access to the other six CC controls 5-10. The same functionality can be applied as per Ctrl 1 pages. Ctrl 2 Setup Menu [FX2] [FX2] Ctrl 2 Main Menu [FX2] CC 71 CC#5 Example: Control from Octatrack to Digitone Envelope Decay 0 127 MIDI IN MIDI OUT Assigns CC#5 to Control Change 71 Adjusts the Value Send Out

414 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES 14 MIDI The Control Change pages are a simple and convenient way to set up the data entry knobs to control external gear using MIDI. ▌SETTING UP MIDI CC 1. Ensure a compatible device is connected and the MIDI settings and channels are configured correctly for the track to edit. 2. Set MIDI Mode On, Press [MIDI]. 3. Select a track, Press [T1] - [T8] 4. Select the Ctrl 1 or Ctrl 2 Setup page, Press [FX1] or [FX2]. 5. Select the Set Up Page by pressing [FX2] [FX2] for in this example for Ctrl 2. 6. Choose one of the available CC controls. Example CC#5 in Ctrl 2. To change the CC number, Turn Data Entry (A) to the desired CC value. Once selected the title shows inverted. This indicates the value is changed but not active. 7. Press [YES] or Knob (A) to activate and set the title to display normally. This could be for example the CC of the Filter Cut Off of a synth. 8. The option of using MIDI Learn is possible if the external synth is connected to send MIDI IN to Octatrack. Press [FUNC] + (A), will open the MIDI Learn window for knob A. A knob change message received from the synth will be learnt and the CC received recorded into the parameter automatically. MIDI Learn only operates in a setup page. 9. Now that the CC is set, the value to control the parameter, example Cut Off, can be adjusted in the Ctrl 2 Main page. Press [Ctrl 2] to toggle to the Main page. 10. Firstly activate the parameter which by default will be set to off. Hold [FUNC] + Data Entry for the equivalent parameter set in the setup page i.e. (A) for this example. 11. The values adjusted by the data entry will now be sent on MIDI OUT as CC messages and will control the respective parameter on the connected device. The scale 0-127 will represent the full scale of the parameter connected. Some devices operate with MSB / LSB CC numbering so take care in using the correct parameter and value.

NOTES The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 415 14.12 MIDI PC - Program Change Inputs & Outputs Program change (PC) messages are special types of MIDI messages that instead of triggering notes or controls, they activate a change between presets or patches in synths and in Elektron devices, change patterns. Also Bank change messages are available. How these work will clearly be dependant on how the devices are designed. There may be different implimentations of what constitutes a program or bank in other devices. MIDI Sync The first consideration with MIDI Program Change messaging is the setup in the MIDI Sync, Press [FUNC] + [MIDI] to access. Here the Program Change settings can be configured. To control program changes to an external device from Octatrack, firstly ensure PROG CH - SEND is set to On / Checked. Equally the RECV should also be set to On / Checked to receive PC messages for pattern changes in Octatrack. Standard MIDI and Audio Track Behaviour. • In the MIDI Sync settings a ‘Ch’ setting of AUTO refers to setting the MIDI channel for program change messages. AUTO will select the first available MIDI Channel used by the Audio Tracks but not by any of the MIDI tracks. This can also be set manually to a fixed MIDI Channel between 1-16. • A PC Message is sent when a pattern change occurs. When the sequencer is stopped it will change immediately. When the sequencer is playing the change may be delayed until the current pattern cycle ends, based on the pattern change behaviour. • Once a PC message is sent, Octatrack will not repeat the same message in succession. The problem with this method is that the receiving device must be precisely configured to match the Octatrack. For example when sending PC change 01 to 02 (0-127) as pattern A02 change to A04 the external device must have programs 01 and 02 set up to match. The external device needs to be configured to Octatrack rather than send to an already configured selection. X 16 X MIDI 14

416 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 14 MIDI NOTES Changing Octatrack Patterns from an external device. Program change (PC) messages received by Octatrack will change the pattern. Sending a PC Message between 0 - 127 will change through each of the 128 Patterns, essentially between patterns A01 to H16. To change patterns I01-P16, a bank change message will be required using a CC 0 message. A CC 0 value of 0 will allow the 127 patterns A01-H16 to be selected using a PC message and a value of 1 will allow access to the other 128, I01-P16 patterns. The Program Change should be set correctly in the PROJ > MIDI > SYNC settings. Prog Ch - Receive must be set to On / Enabled for Octatrack to receive PC messages. Octatrack … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … MIDI Out MIDI In A01 A02 A16 I01 I02 I16 E01 E02 E16 M01 M02 M16 C01 C02 C16 K01 K02 K16 G01 G02 G16 O01 O02 O16 B01 B02 B16 J01 J02 J16 F01 F02 F16 N01 N02 N16 D01 D02 D16 L01 L02 L16 H01 H02 H16 P01 P02 P16 Bank / Pattern A01-H16 Control Change CC 0 = 0 CC 0 PC Change Group Change Pattern 0 1 0 127 Program Change Program Change 0 112 112 1 0 113 113 15 1 127 127 15 Bank / Pattern I01-P16 Control Change CC 0 = 1 PC Program Change Messages 0-127 will select one of the 128 Patterns in the Bank A-H or I-P selected group.

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 417 NOTES MIDI 14 Sending Out Program Change Messages from Octatrack. A more versatile option when controlling external PC from Octatrack is to use the MIDI Tracks. Bank and Sub Bank change messages follow same principles. This doesn't use the MIDI Sync set up but uses the MIDI sequencer in MIDI Mode to align better to external gear configurations. Remember track parameters are stored in parts, including the PC and channel data, meaning one PC message per part. The MIDI Out PC configuration is found in the MIDI Track Notes Setup page. A PC message is sent on the defined channel every time a pattern linked to another part is changed or a manual PROG change. The message is sent when the pattern or PROG value becomes active. PROG 0 127 PROG 22 16 16 22 22 Channel 16 Changes can be made in the Notes Setup Page. Parameter will display inverted. Press [YES] to acknowledge and activate any changes made and revert display to normal. Octatrack PC: 0 - 99 (Max 127) UNO Drum PC: 00 - 99 UNO Drum Kits: 1 - 100 Changed, Inactive Changed, Active PC Message is sent when PROG is made active. (2) Main Page Setup Page PC Message is sent when a pattern in another part is made active. (1) UNO Drum, Channel 16, has a set of kits numbered 0-100 that will respond to a PC 00-99 change message from Octatrack. UNO Drum will only display the active kit when refreshing the display. (1) PC settings are stored along with other track parameters in parts. Only changing to a pattern in another part will issue a PC message. The NOTE Setup CHAN and PROG would need to be set in the destination part to send the PC. (2) Activate by pressing [YES] to enable the changed parameters and hence transmit a PC Message. Example: PC Change of External Device PC 01-127 MIDI IN

418 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 14 MIDI 14.13 MIDI Transport & Clock NOTES When controlling or being controlled by other gear two sync elements should be considered. Firstly the MIDI clock ensures connected devices stay synchronised together, especially with time based functions such as BPM of sequencers. Octatrack’s SCALE - MASTER SCALE setting affects clock timing. Secondly the transport messages control how a sequence is started, stopped etc and which device takes a lead control. The settings are found in the MIDI Sync - [FUNC] + [MIDI]. Also in the PROJ settings. A design choice is required when creating a MIDI network of gear. The main question is which device will be the primary lead that other devices will rely on and follow. This affects how Octatrack and other gear is setup. ▌SETTING OCTATRACK TRANSPORT AND CLOCK 1. Press [FUNC] + [MIDI] to access MIDI Sync. 2. Press [LEFT] [RIGHT], [UP] [DOWN] to navigate. Press [YES] to Toggle on or off or Turn (LEVEL). 3. Set the TRANSP, SEND to Checked / On if the device will lead the control. Set TRANSP, RECV to Checked / On if another device will control Octatrack. 4. Set the CLOCK, SEND to Checked / On if the device will be the lead clock. Set CLOCK, RECV to Checked / On if another device will control Octatracks clock. 5. Press [NO] to Exit.

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 419 NOTES MIDI 14 Octatrack as the Primary lead control Octatrack as a follower device If both transport and clock are set to receive Octatrack as a 16 Sec wait between a start and clock to allow for Preroll of other device. Transport control and clock is dictated by the Octatrack. Transport control and clock is dictated by the Digitakt. Digitakt will follow the lead of the Octatrack as will other devices such as UNO Drum. Digitakt will be the primary lead with Octatrack and other devices to follow. UNO Drum for example as part of the MIDI Network. Example: 2 Options for Transport & Clock MIDI IN MIDI IN MIDI THRU X X X X

420 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide NOTES

So far the discussions have been around creating projects and patterns, either Audio or MIDI. The arranger is a utility that enables the composition of a series of patterns assembled together to create an entire song - an arrangement. The Arranger is focussed on general song arrangement management but is also helpful when creating variations and remixes of songs. It is an immensely useful and powerful tool which can also set up defined arrangements for live performance where on the fly improvisation can be integrated seamlessly. Arrangements are stored within each project where a maximum of 8 slots per project are available, each of which can have a unique name assigned. The Arranger is a comprehensive tool in itself and does much more than just chaining patterns in series. Patterns can each have an individual tempo assigned, scene behaviours and mutes can be set and timing and pattern looping managed as well as jump points. MIDI Song position pointers can also be received and transmitted (MKII Only) allowing external gear to be even more integrated throughout an entire song composition. While this section may not appear deep in the number of pages assigned, it is deep in the sense of highlighting the powerful features and applications of creating full arrangements. The arranger is an inspirational, tracker like tool that should not be overlooked and is fully worthy of its own section in this book. We highly recommend getting to know it intimately and using it in the building of your song library. It will open up many more opportunities on developing tracks further than you first think. It seems fitting that this is therefore the last section which guides on the creative aspects of Octatrack. Bringing everything together into a full song and dare we say, one step closer to commercialising that elusive new track release. Arrangements 15 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 421

422 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 15.1 Arranger Functional Overview Octatrack’s building blocks are patterns which, once created, are stored in banks and can be played and edited as individual musical elements. To assemble these into longer more complete song arrangements the ‘go to’ tool is the Arranger. Functional Diagram 15 Arrangements A03 REM: LOOP: JUMP: END OF ARR. 000 003 005 008 001 004 006 002 007 1 VERSE ONE 002/∞ 007 4 000 000 000 000 000 - - - - - 016 032 032 032 032 03 04 05 02 T B B M M M M B02 B04 B06 C04 Row Row Pattern PAT Repeats REP Offset OF Length LN Scene SCENE Transpose T Tempo BPM B Mutes M Each pattern row is played in sequence Attributes per row can be set for the behaviour of the pattern assigned to the row. Comments as remarks can be added on passive rows. Play Direction Loops between the row stated to current loop row. Option to jump forward to rows or halt at the row. Song Pattern A03 B02 C04 EDIT

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 423 NOTES Arrangements 15 15.2 Arrangements Menu Page Overview Arrangements are created and edited in the Arranger tool. The menu is accessed by pressing [ARR]. Arrangements can be played in Arrangement Mode, accessed by [FUNC] + [ARR]. ▌NAVIGATING THE ARRANGEMENT MENU. 1. Press [ARR] to open the arrangement menu settings. 2. Press [UP] [DOWN] [RIGHT] [LEFT] to move through and highlight the menu options. 3. Press [YES] to open feature that is currently highlighted. When creating a new arrangement the ‘EDIT’ option is the starting point. 4. Optionally press [NO] to exit. Function Description Edit Edit is the starting point to build an arrangement or to modify the current arrangement Rename Opens the naming pop-up option in order to change the current arrangements name Change Opens the browser to present the list of arrangements in the current project. A new arrangement can be selected from this menu. 8 Arrangement slots exist per project. Chain Will cue another arrangement to play after the currently playing arrangement completes. Only one arrangement can be chained. Clear Erases the currently active arrangement. Save Will save the current arrangement to one of the 8 slots in the project. Will offer to rename if this is saved for the first time. Reload Restores the current arrangement to its previously saved state

424 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 15.3 Arrangements Mode When playing and performing with arrangements, the Arrangement Mode should be selected by pressing [FUNC] + [ARR]. Control over the arrangement playback can be a handled within this page. ▌SELECTING ARRANGEMENT MODE. 1. Press [FUNC] + [ARR] to switch to arrangement mode. 2. The ARR button LED will be lit when Arrangement Mode is active and off when it is inactive. The display will represent arrangement mode. 3. When playing ie [PLAY] in this mode, playback is performed in the arrangement as opposed to the single pattern playback used normally. 15 Arrangements + NOTES Arrangement. Currently Active Arrangement Pattern / Command. Selected Pattern or command to action on the row Pattern Repeat. Followed by scene A & B. Alternatively command instructions. Pattern Playback Countdown. Counts down for every repeat cycle played of the pattern row to 00. Chain. A chained arrangement will show at the bottom row. Row Number Play Position. Bars & Beats Counter Current Row. Playing Row - Solid Tags Selected Row - Empty Tags

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 425 ▌PLAYING AN ARRANGEMENT. 1. Press [FUNC] + [ARR] to switch to arrangement mode. 2. Press [PLAY] to start the arrangement playback. Pressing [PLAY] again will pause playback. 3. Press [STOP] to stop the arrangement playback on the row. 4. Alternatively to stop and reposition playback to the start, Press [STOP] and Press [STOP] again. 5. Note that tracks with samples set to loop may continue to play once triggered even at the end of the arrangement. ▌CHANGING A PLAYBACK ROW. 1. Press [FUNC] + [ARR] to switch to arrangement mode. 2. Press [UP] [DOWN] to navigate the arrangement row. The actively playing row will be tagged with solid arrows either side of the row. The selected row to cue will be indicated with open arrows either side. 3. On the target row, indicated by the open arrows, Press [YES] to select and cue the row for playback. Playback will begin once the currently active row completes playback or is stopped, when [PLAY] is pressed. ▌CREATIVE PLAYBACK CONSIDERATIONS. • Ensure arrangement mode is on (LED Lit) when needed. If on when not required or by accident, playback may not work as expected. • Use a ‘Hold’ function in the arranger to automatically pause playback. Manually select the next row to continue beyond the held row. • Create infinite loops where ad libs and on the fly improvisations such as parameter changes, filter sweeps etc can be performed. Then manually select the next step to play to continue onwards in the arrangement. • Create and save a variety of arrangements. Consider the use of arrangements when creating patterns. For example, create several pattern variations that can be used in an arrangement. NOTES Arrangements 15

426 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 15.4 Creating an Arrangement Arrangements are created in the Arrangement - [ARR] editor. Selecting this menu alone does not activate the arrangement mode, but just serves as the editing / creation tool. While its perfectly OK to just dive in and create pattern changes, its also worth spending time to get to know the intimate details and hence power of the arranger while developing a workflow. Example Track - Typical EDM Song Arrangement Start Intro 1 Starts sparse, maybe kick, snare, a few more elements added ie bass as intro progresses. Length allows initial DJ ‘Mix In’ time. Main ‘verse’ with melody hints or vocal clues to the full production. Leaves space and elements to build up the anticipation or tension. Breakdown pause and chance to reset on energy. Thins some elements out to take a time out breather until the tension starts to rebuild. Bridge will give one section for something different. Full on main track. All elements kick in and the tension built up is released during this section. First drop doesn't overdo things time wise. Full on main track. All elements kick in and the tension built up is released again. Possibly repeated after a bridge for continuity. Final full on section which can optionally repeat. Track breaks-down gradually to the end. Elements are removed and a section to allow DJ transition to ‘Mix out’ is considered, possibly kick only. Breakdown 1 Breakdown 2 Bridge Outro 1 4 Bars per ‘block’ This track illustration will be used as reference in the following workflow tutorial examples. Outro 2 End Build Up 1 Build Up 2 Drop 1 Drop 2 Drop 3 15 Arrangements NOTES

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 427 Ensure you have a clear mental or written view of the banks and patterns in the project that will contribute to the arrangement. For illustration purposes, these tutorials follow a process breaking down the workflow into discrete steps and then circling back after creating the basic arrangement to add more advanced elements. Creating a row and setting all attributes at the same time is also a typical workflow. ▌CREATING A NEW ARRANGEMENT - ADDING ROWS. 1. Press [ARR] to open the arrangement tool. 2. Navigate to highlight the ‘EDIT’ option and Press [YES] to select the arrangement editor. 3. If this is a new empty arrangement, the option to add the first row is presented. Press [FUNC] + [DOWN] to add the first row. Up to 264 rows, starting at row 0, can be added. Existing row is replicated. 4. Once the row has been created, the attributes can be set firstly with the pattern to play on this numbered row. Press [PTN] + Trig [1] - [16] to select a pattern for the current row. To edit the pattern, Turn (LEVEL) when the pattern is highlighted to change to another. Note, if required the bank can also be changed, Press [BANK] + Trig [1] - [16]. 5. To add another row, Press [FUNC] + [DOWN] to insert a row below the current row. This command is used to insert subsequent rows. 6. To delete the current row, Press [FUNC] + [UP] to delete. 7. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate the rows. The current row which can be edited is shown between the horizontal dotted lines. NOTES Arrangements 15 Intro 1 Set to play first 16 steps on row 0 with several tracks muted, then the latter part 16-32 steps. Pattern repeats for the 16 steps Pattern 2 plays again but this time all of the 16 steps for slight variation Pattern plays for the 16 steps New pattern plays for the 16 steps Breakdown 1 Breakdown 2 Build Up 1 Drop 1 Bars & Beats of current position when arrangement is playing Selected row for editing

428 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide ▌CREATING A NEW ARRANGEMENT - PATTERN DURATION. 1. While still in the arrangement editor for the arrangement example. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate the rows. The current row which can be edited is shown between the horizontal dotted lines. Select each row sequentially to edit the attributes. 3. On the row to edit, Press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate across the attribute columns. The parameter to edit will be highlighted. 4. Select the REP - Repeat column for the row being edited. Turn (LEVEL) to adjust the number of times the row will repeat. Every row will play a minimum of one cycle i.e. when no repeats are set. Setting REP 2 will play a total of 2 cycles, REP 4 will play 4 cycles etc. The Arranger Mode page will show this as a countdown when playing the arrangement with 0 representing the last repeat cycle. 5. Select the OF - Offset column for the row being edited. Turn (LEVEL) to adjust the number of steps for the starting playback position of the selected pattern. Example, Offset 8 will start the pattern on step 9 of the pattern. Steps will wrap to pattern start. 6. Select the LN - Length column for the row being edited. The original length is based on the scale setup pattern length and if ‘per track’ is set this will set the master length. Turn (LEVEL) to adjust the number of steps for the pattern to playback from its current (i.e. original or offset) position. Example, if offset is 0, length 16 will play the first 16 steps, if offset is 16, length is 16 will skip steps 1-16 and start playing for 16 steps from step 17. 7. Once completed other attributes can also be changed as desired. Number of repeats of the pattern Offset in steps, before pattern starts Length in steps that the pattern will play before next pattern starts 15 Arrangements NOTES

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 429 Examples Repeat number will indicate as a countdown on the Arranger Mode Page. NOTES Arrangements 15 Offset 8 Steps Offset 23 Steps Length 16 Steps Length 16 Steps 1 1 1 16 16 16 8 8 8 24 24 24 32 32 32 First cycle will play before moving to next pattern First cycle will play, then will repeat before moving to next pattern First cycle will play, then repeat twice before moving to next pattern Starting at the first step (no offset) , play for 32 steps in length Starting at the first step on 9 (8 offset), play for 16 steps in length First step on 24 (23 offset), play for 16 steps, wrapping the length REP = Blank Countdown 00 Countdown 01 to 00 Countdown 02 to 00 REP - Repeat OF - Offset & LN - Length REP = 2 REP = 3 OF = 0, LN = 32 OF = 8, LN = 16 OF = 23, LN = 16

430 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide ▌CREATING A NEW ARRANGEMENT - SCENE DEFAULTS. 1. While still in the arrangement editor for the arrangement example. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate the rows. The current row which can be edited is shown between the horizontal dotted lines. Select each row sequentially to edit the attributes. 3. On the row to edit, Press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate across the attribute columns. The parameter to edit will be highlighted. 4. Select the first SCENE column which will allow a Scene ‘A’ assignment. Press [A] +Trig [1] - [16] or Turn (LEVEL). The scene ‘A’ number will be indicated on the row. 5. Select the second SCENE column which will allow a Scene ‘B’ assignment. Press [B] + Trig [1] - [16] or Turn (LEVEL). The scene ‘B’ number will be indicated on the row. 6. Scenes selected will be based on the part loaded. 7. This is useful when playing live and during improvisations where the parameters to adjust for the specific part of the song are preset to the scene slots within the arrangement. Changes are applied automatically as the rows change. 8. Once completed other attributes can also be changed as desired. Scene A The default scene ‘A’ selection can be assigned by Trig for the row. Note: The convention and best practice is to use first column for ‘A’ and second column for ‘B’, however in practice either column can be used for ‘A’ or ‘B’. Scene B The default scene ‘B’ selection can be assigned by Trig for the row. 15 Arrangements NOTES

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 431 ▌CREATING A NEW ARRANGEMENT - MIDI TRANSPOSE. 1. In the arrangement editor a transpose can be assigned to a row that is applied to MIDI tracks. This is ideal for melody transitions or to add variety in a drop or bridge when connecting external gear. 2. Set up MIDI tracks as desired. The pitch settings is where the MIDI transposition will be applied. 3. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate the rows. The current row which can be edited is shown between the horizontal dotted lines. Select each row sequentially to edit the attributes. 4. On the row to edit, Press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate across the attribute columns. The parameter to edit will be highlighted. 5. Highlight the T - Transpose column. 6. Press [YES] to open the MIDI Transpose pop-up menu. 7. Press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate to highlight the MIDI Track to edit. 8. On the selected MIDI Track, Turn (LEVEL) to adjust and set the transposition in semitones. 9. The display will show a ‘T’ symbol in the T - Transpose column where a transposition is setup. The row, when played will apply the transposition to the MIDI tracks defined. 10. Press [NO] to exit. MIDI Transpose Pop-Up MIDI Tracks Transpose per track in semitones NOTES Arrangements 15

432 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide ▌CREATING A NEW ARRANGEMENT - TEMPO PER ROW. 1. In the arrangement editor the BPM (Beats per Minute) can be assigned to a row. This is ideal for transitions or to add variety. Project tempo is the default unless a specific tempo is assigned to the row. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate the rows. The current row which can be edited is shown between the horizontal dotted lines. Select each row sequentially to edit the attributes. 3. On the row to edit, Press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate across the attribute columns. The parameter to edit will be highlighted. 4. Highlight the B - BPM column. 5. Press [YES] to open the BPM pop-up menu. 6. On the selected row:- • Turn (LEVEL) to adjust the row BPM. • Press + Turn (LEVEL) for larger changes in BPM. • Turn (LEVEL) to select PATTERN to revert to the pattern tempo. 7. The display will show a ‘B’ symbol in the B - BPM column where a tempo change is setup. The row, when played will apply the tempo change then revert to the tempo defined for the next row. 8. Press [NO] to exit. Selected row to apply the new BPM Note: If no dedicated tempo BPM is applied for a row, i.e. left blank, then the PROJECT BPM Tempo will be used. Arranger tempo takes priority over pattern or project tempo so be careful that the arranger doesn't change tempo incorrectly. BPM Column, rows flagged ‘B’ have a dedicated tempo assigned. Tempo assigned to row. 15 Arrangements NOTES

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 433 ▌CREATING A NEW ARRANGEMENT - MUTE MODE PER ROW 1. Applying a mute state for tracks per row is arguably the most powerful and useful option in the arranger feature set. Having the ability to mute tracks per row means a single pattern can contribute to multiple rows and the muted tracks will form the variation in the arrangement. 2. Identify the patterns that will form the arrangement. For Mute states fully featured tracks are useful, then mute to silence some as required. 3. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate the rows. The current row which can be edited is shown between the horizontal dotted lines. Select each row sequentially to edit the attributes. 4. On the row to edit, Press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate across the attribute columns. The parameter to edit will be highlighted. 5. Highlight the M - Mute column. 6. Press [YES] to open the track mute pop-up menu. This has the same look and feel as in the mixer mute function. 7. The first 8 squares refer to audio tracks, represented by Trig [1] - [8]. When unmuted, tracks are indicated by unfilled / filled squares and trigs are lit red. 8. The last 8 squares refer to MIDI tracks, represented by Trig [9] - [16]. When unmuted, tracks are indicated by unfilled / filled squares and trigs are lit yellow. 9. Press Trig [1] - [16] to mute the respective track for the selected row. The Trig will be unlit and the display will show a dash for muted tracks. 10. The display will show an ‘M’ symbol in the M - Mute column where mutes are setup. The row, when played will mute the defined tracks. Mute States Pop-Up Audio track mute state MIDI Track Mute State NOTES Arrangements 15

434 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide Examples In the EDM example the introduction uses pattern A01 over 32 Steps, but with a length of 16 steps on each of two rows. Rather than create different patterns the same A01 pattern can have a number of tracks muted to reduce the first 16 steps to say a kick only. MUTE ROW:000 MUTE ROW:001 AUDIO MIDI AUDIO MIDI 15 Arrangements NOTES 1 1 16 16 8 8 24 24 32 32 Pattern A01: Played for first 16 Steps Pattern A01: Played for last 16 Steps OF = 0, LN = 16 OF = 16, LN = 16 ROW 1 ROW 0 A01 Mutes all Tracks Except Track 1 - Kick and Track 2 Sparse Snare No mutes applied, equally a longer intro could have tracks unmuted gradually through different rows of the arrangement.

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 435 15.5 Arrangement Special Commands Arrangements also have 4 special commands that are used in place of the rows PAT - Pattern option. These are used for structural and control purposes when developing arrangements. Each of these apply a clear process orientated function and are very powerful in use and should be considered at the outset when building an arrangement. Special Command Reference ▌ADDING SPECIAL COMMANDS IN A NEW ARRANGEMENT 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR] and select ‘EDIT’. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate the rows. The current row which can be edited is shown between the horizontal dotted lines. Select each row sequentially to edit the attributes. 3. On the row to edit, Press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate across the attribute columns. The parameter to edit will be highlighted. 4. Highlight the PAT column where the pattern is normally set. 5. Turn (LEVEL), anti-clockwise to select special commands:- • Scroll through A01 and beyond until ‘HALT’ appears and is selected. • Scroll further anti-clockwise past, ‘HALT’ to reach ‘REM’. • When on the ‘HALT’, Press [RIGHT] to select the value to the right. Turn (LEVEL) clockwise to select ‘JUMP’ or turn anti-clockwise to select ‘LOOP’. NOTES Arrangements 15 Name Functions Description END OF ARR End of Arrangement This is a automatically applied command that is set at the very last row of any arrangement. The system will apply this by default. REM Remark Allows text comments to be added as rows. This will help guide the user on the arrangement structure. Does not affect any musical or timing input, but only serves as a visual reference. HALT Stops the arrangement playback Once the halt row is triggered in the arrangement playback it will stop and pause on this row. This can set temporary or permanent pauses at points in the arrangement structure. JUMP Moves the playback position forward Once the jump row is triggered in the arrangement playback it will immediately move the playback position to the defined target row later in the arrangement. This will step over and not play any rows in-between the jump and target rows. LOOP Loop playback between defined rows Once the loop row is triggered it will immediately start the playback position to the defined target row earlier in the arrangement. This will step through and play any rows in-between the target and loop rows before looping again from the loop row.

436 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide REM - Remark A remark is simply a text label applied in a row to act as a cue and reminder of what the following arrangement rows do. This may seem like an easy step to skip initially but is extremely useful later down the line to avoid counting rows and patterns to figure out what the arrangement parts do and where they reside. Investing time for remarks when creating an arrangement is strongly advised. ▌ADDING A REMARK IN AN ARRANGEMENT 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR] and select ‘EDIT’. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate the rows. The current row which can be edited is shown between the horizontal dotted lines. Select row where the jump start position will be applied. 3. On the row to edit, Press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate across the attribute columns. The parameter to edit will be highlighted. 4. Highlight the PAT column where the pattern is normally set. 5. Turn (LEVEL), anti-clockwise. This will scroll through the patterns and scroll past A01 until ‘HALT’ appears. Continue to Turn (LEVEL) one more increment until ‘REM’ appears. 6. Press [RIGHT] to move to the next column on the REM row. 7. Press [YES]. The naming pop-up menu will appear to create text. The text limit is 15 characters. (LEVEL) Example EDM Project Remarks:- Intro 1 INTRO Breakdown 1 BRKDN 1 Build Up 1 BLD UP 1 Drop 1 DROP 1 Breakdown 2 BRKDN 2 Build Up 2 BLD UP 2 Drop 2 DROP 2 Bridge BRIDGE Drop 3 DROP 3 Outro 1 OUTRO Outro 2 REM HALT A01 A02 15 Arrangements NOTES

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 437 HALT - Halt A Halt will pause on the row that it is triggered This state will remain indefinitely unless a manual step selection in the arranger mode to the row below the halt. On the row below, press [YES] to continue playing. Halt is useful if the arranger is used to organise complete songs DJ style that are then played back with manual row selections. ▌CREATING A HALT COMMAND IN AN ARRANGEMENT ROW 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR] and select ‘EDIT’. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate the rows. The current row which can be edited is shown between the horizontal dotted lines. Select an exact row on which to stop playback. 3. On the row to edit, Press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate across the attribute columns. The parameter to edit will be highlighted. 4. Highlight the PAT column where the pattern is normally set. 5. Turn (LEVEL), anti-clockwise. This will scroll through the patterns and past A01, until ‘HALT’ appears along with the row number to halt. 6. Press [NO] to exit (LEVEL) Play will be halted. To manually commence playback, in arranger mode, select the next step down using [UP] [DOWN] and press [YES] REM HALT A01 A02 NOTES Arrangements 15

438 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide JUMP - Jump A jump command steps forward a number of rows to continue playback at a future row position. This will then bypass the rows in-between the jump positions. This is useful to structure arrangements. ▌CREATING A JUMP COMMAND IN AN ARRANGEMENT ROW 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR] and select ‘EDIT’. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate the rows. The current row which can be edited is shown between the horizontal dotted lines. Select a row before elements of a track for example, set a remark before the intro named ‘INTRO’, before the breakdown 1 named ‘BRKDWN1’ etc. 3. On the row to edit, Press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate across the attribute columns. The parameter to edit will be highlighted. 4. Highlight the PAT column where the pattern is normally set. 5. Turn (LEVEL), anti-clockwise. This will scroll through the patterns and past A01 until ‘HALT’ appears. 6. Press [RIGHT] to move to the next right column on the HALT row. 7. Turn (LEVEL) clockwise one iteration. This will change the special command from ‘HALT’ to ‘JUMP’. 8. Continue to Turn (LEVEL) further clockwise to set the jump target row. Playback will jump from the ‘JUMP’ row to this destination row. Row 3 Row 4 Row 5 Row 6 Row 7 Row 8 Row 9 (LEVEL) [RIGHT] Destination step is set while selecting jump. REM HALT A01 A02 15 Arrangements NOTES JUMP

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 439 NOTES Arrangements 15 LOOP - Loop A loop command steps backwards a number of rows whilst continuously playing back to the loop row at which point it will cycle back again. The number of cycles that an arrangement section loops is set on the loop row. This us useful for musical variation and structures and is especially useful for live performance. ▌CREATING A LOOP SECTION IN AN ARRANGEMENT 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR] and select ‘EDIT’. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate to the loop start row. The current row which can be edited is shown between the horizontal dotted lines. 3. On the row to edit, Press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate across the attribute columns. The parameter to edit will be highlighted. 4. Highlight the PAT column where the pattern is normally set. 5. Turn (LEVEL), anti-clockwise. This will scroll through the patterns and past A01 until ‘HALT’ appears. 6. Press [RIGHT] to move to the next right column on the HALT row. 7. Turn (LEVEL) anti-clockwise one iteration. This will change the special command from ‘HALT’ to ‘LOOP’. 8. Continue to Turn (LEVEL) further anti-clockwise to set the loop target row. Playback will cycle from the ‘LOOP’ row to this destination row. 9. The default is to loop infinitely but this can be set to a specific number of loop cycles. Press [RIGHT] to select and highlight the infinity symbol. 10. Turn (LEVEL) to set the number of loop cycles from infinity to any value up to a maximum of 64.

440 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide Loop Row 0 Row 1 Row 2 Row 3 Row 4 Row 5 Row 6 (LEVEL) [RIGHT] [RIGHT] Destination step is set while selecting loop. Number of loop cycles is set within loop column The loop will cycle in an infinite pattern unless an alternative number of cycles is set. If a defined number is set, playback will step out of the cycle after the loop iterations are completed. Alternatively setting the next row manually in the Arranger Mode and pressing [YES] will move to playing the next row. REM HALT A01 A02 LOOP 15 Arrangements NOTES

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 441 NOTES Arrangements 15 Creative Tips for Special Commands The special commands have many uses both in a studio or live performance environment. Some tips are given here. • Create loop sections in an arrangement that will, once triggered allow live improvisation. An infinite loop for example across the bridge of a track will allow manual parameter changes and ad libs through the looped section. Manually releasing the loop on the next non-looped row to continue. • Use REM remarks at the start of every section of an arrangement. While it might seem time consuming at the outset it will save time (and frustration) later when revisiting an arrangement. • Use a REM not only to describe sections, but use it also to add things like date and author at the start or end of the arrangement. • Create a variety of loops ready for live improvisation. Use a jump command ahead of each loop to bypass each loop row. Under normal playback situations the loops therefore will not trigger. Then when preparing to play live, simply remove the jump or change the jump destination so that the loop will trigger in the live set. • Create an arrangement of multiple songs chained. Use a Halt at the end of each and then manually skip to start on the fly, DJ Style. • Create an arrangement with alternative sections. For example a longer bridge, different mutes or extended drop section. Set a jump command before the sections and set the jump destination to whichever version is required. • Use arrangements in general to create remixed versions and save to the 8 available arrangement slots per project.

442 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 15.6 Editing Arrangements Once created, arrangements can be revisited to edit further. The edit function contains most of the features required. ▌DELETING AN ARRANGEMENT ROW 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR] and select ‘EDIT’. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate to the desired row. 3. Press [FUNC] + [UP] to delete the current row. The selection bounding lines will automatically select the next row available above. ▌COPYING / PASTING AN ARRANGEMENT ROW 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR] and select ‘EDIT’. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate to highlight the desired row to copy. 3. Press [FUNC] + [REC] to copy the current row. 4. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate to highlight a target row. If desired, Press [FUNC] + [DOWN] to create a new row to copy into. 5. Press [FUNC] + [STOP] to paste into the current row the previously copied row. 6. To move rows use the copy / paste option and delete as required. ▌CLEARING AN ARRANGEMENT ROW 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR] and select ‘EDIT’. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] to navigate to highlight the desired row to clear. 3. Press [FUNC] + [PLAY] to clear the current row. 4. The behaviour of the clear will depend on the function of the row:- • Pattern rows will be reset to default. • Loop and Jump rows will revert to Halt. • Remark rows will clear the text. 15 Arrangements NOTES

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 443 15.7 Arrangement Management While the majority of arrangement activities are performed in the edit mode, other options are available in the arranger help management. ▌SAVING AN ARRANGEMENT 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR]. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] [ LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate to highlight ‘SAVE’. 3. Press [YES] to select the save function. The option to save up to 8 arrangement per project is possible. Chains cannot be saved. 4. If this is the first time a ‘save as’ function will trigger the naming pop-up menu and invite a new name to be created if this is the first time being saved. This typically would appear to ‘save as’ when saving for the first time a newly created arrangement. Alternatively a save Y/N prompt to confirm will appear. 5. Press [YES] to confirm or when naming is completed to save the arrangement to the active slot. Alternatively press [NO] to cancel. ▌RELOADING AN ARRANGEMENT FROM SAVED STATE 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR]. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] [ LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate to highlight ‘RELOAD’. 3. Press [YES] to select the reload function. A prompt to discard any changes made will appear. 4. Press [YES] to confirm to replace the current arrangement with the previously saved version. Alternatively press [NO] to cancel. NOTES Arrangements 15

444 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide ▌CHANGING / LOADING AN ARRANGEMENT 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR]. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] [ LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate to highlight ‘CHANGE’. 3. Press [YES] to select the change function. This will open the arrangement browser list and the available arranger slots will show the stored arrangements. An asterisk indicates unsaved data. 4. Press [UP] [DOWN] to navigate through the list and highlight the arrangement to select and load. 5. Press [YES] to confirm loading and changing the current arrangement. Any chains will clear. Alternatively press [NO] to cancel. ▌RENAMING THE CURRENT ARRANGEMENT 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR]. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] [ LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate to highlight ‘RENAME’. 3. Press [YES] to select the rename function. 4. The naming pop-up menu will appear and invite a new name to be created. Use the naming tool to set a new name. 5. Press [YES] when naming is completed to confirm. Alternatively press [NO] to cancel. ▌CLEARING AN ARRANGEMENT 1. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR]. 2. Use [UP] [DOWN] [ LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate to highlight ‘CLEAR’. 3. Press [YES] to select the clear function. A prompt will appear asking to confirm. Note that this function will completely clear and reset to a blank arrangement. 4. Press [YES] to confirm clear. Alternatively press [NO] to cancel. 15 Arrangements NOTES

The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 445 NOTES 15.8 Chaining Arrangements As well as chaining patterns into arrangements, a single arrangement itself can also be chained in series at the end of the current arrangement. This is a dynamic action meaning that once the arrangement and chain completes playback or the current arrangement is changed then the chain will clear. ▌CHAINING AN ARRANGEMENT SERIES 1. Ensure a set of arrangements have been created and saved. Each project will have 8 arrangement slots. 2. Select the arrangement editor, Press [ARR]. 3. Use [UP] [DOWN] [ LEFT] [RIGHT] to navigate to highlight ‘CHAIN’. 4. Press [YES] to select the chain function. This will open the arrangement browser list and the available arranger slots will show the stored arrangements. 5. Press [UP] [DOWN] to navigate through the list and highlight the arrangement to add in the chain. The chained arrangement will play after the currently selected arrangement completes. 6. Only one iteration of an arrangement can be added in a chain. Chains cannot be saved. The chained arrangement will be shown at the end of the active arrangement in the arranger mode and edit pages. Arrangements 15 ARR 1 ARR 3 Play Direction Currently selected arrangement Subsequently chained arrangement which will play after the current arrangement completes

446 The Octatrack Notebook : Reference & Guide 15.9 Arrangement Quick Reference Arrangements are extremely useful and powerful and worthy of the time investment to learn. To speed up the workflow a quick reference of commands is provided. 15 Arrangements NOTES Menu Function Control What does it do? Arranger Mode Arranger On/Off [FUNC] + [ARR] Turns the arranger mode on (LED Lit) or Off (LED unlit). Set to ON to play arrangements. Arranger Menu Arranger Setup Menu [ARR] Opens the arranger options. Access to Edit, Rename, Change, Chain, Clear, Save, Reload Arranger Edit, Arranger Mode Play [PLAY] Plays the arranger from the current or cued row. Pauses if playing. Arranger mode must be on. Arranger Edit, Arranger Mode Stop [STOP] Stops the arranger playback row. Arranger mode must be on. Arranger Edit, Arranger Mode Navigate row selection. [UP] [DOWN], [YES] Selects a row to be cued or played. Press [YES] to activate the row playback. [PLAY] to play. Arranger Edit Add new row [FUNC] + [DOWN] Adds a new row below the currently selected row. Replicates the current row. Arranger Edit Delete row [FUNC] + [UP] Deletes the current row and moves other rows up. Arranger Edit Navigate rows columns [RIGHT] [LEFT] Moves selection cursor across columns of the current row. Parameters highlighted for editing. Arranger Edit PAT Column [PTN] + Trig [1] - [16] Adds a pattern into the PAT column. Also bank can be selected first with [BANK] + Trig [1] - [16]. Also turn (LEVEL) to adjust pattern selection. Arranger Edit Edit settings Turn (LEVEL) Adjusts the value setting for the currently selected parameter column. Arranger Edit T, B, M, Column [YES] Selects the parameter pop-up menu for the Transposition, BPM Tempo and Mute modes Arranger Change Select arrangement [UP] [DOWN], [YES] Navigate in the change menu to an arrangement to load / change to. Confirm with [YES] Arranger Clear Clears current arrangement [YES] Clears and sets to default the current arrangement directly when pressing [YES] + [YES] to confirm. Arranger Save Saves current arrangement [YES] Saves the active arrangement to current slot directly when pressing [YES] + [YES] to confirm. Will require to name if first time save is performed. Arranger Reload Reloads saved arrangement [YES] Reloads a previously saved arrangement from the current slot directly when pressing [YES] + [YES] to confirm. Will discard unsaved changes. Arranger Chain Chains an arrangement [UP] [DOWN], [YES] Navigate the slots to select an arrangement to chain after the current arrangement. Confirm with [YES] Arranger Menu Exit menu [NO] Exits the arranger edit menu.