Working with the Simpler

In this video, we'll be working with the Simpler. We already added the Simpler to the first track when we dragged the bass sample into the device view.

Overview of Simpler

The Simpler is a basic sampler with classic parameters of the synth, allowing you to process the sample using:

• Envelopes
• Filters
• LFO (Low-Frequency Oscillator)

Sample View

• You can drop a sample here if you, for example, add an empty Simpler by dragging the folder of a Simpler onto the view.
• Here, we have the Simpler for the bass sample loaded in.

Note: The magnifying glass icon allows you to enlarge the view, similar to how it works in the clip view.

Adjusting the Sample

• The sample doesn't start right away, so we simply drag the start marker.
• There is a snap button you can press to ensure that it snaps to the zero crossing.

Zero Crossing: This is when the waveform crosses the zero line. It helps to avoid clicking sounds in the audio.

1. Drag the end marker or adjust the start marker.
2. You can loop the sample by creating shorter loops or creating fades.
3. Example: If you zoom out, you can see where it starts.

Modulation with ADSR Envelopes

Next up, you have three ADSR envelopes to modulate:

• Volume
• Filter frequency
• Pitch

ADSR Breakdown

• Attack: Adjusts the time to reach the peak value (the highest value).
  • Example: Softer sound with less attack.
• Decay: Time until the level drops to the sustain level.
  • Easier to hear if the sustain is not at 0 dB.
• Sustain: Adjusted in dB.
• Release: Time until the sound drops to zero (silence).
  • You can sustain something for up to 60 seconds.

Working with Filters

Filters need to be turned on to function properly. There are:

• Two low pass filters (12dB and 24dB)
• Two band pass filters
• Two high pass filters
• One notch filter

Filter Types Explained

• Low Pass Filter: Only allows low frequencies to pass through.
• Band Pass Filter: A band of frequencies is allowed through.
• High Pass Filter: Lets higher frequencies through.
• Notch Filter: A very narrow filter.

Example: For a bass sound, we'll try the low pass filter.

• Set the cut frequency to 22kHz (which means it won't cut anything).
• Adjust the frequency to hear how the sound changes.
• You can also adjust the resonance and try the second low pass filter.

Pitch and Modulation

• Turn on pitch modulation if needed. If you're not using it, turn it off to save CPU power.
• The LFO can be turned on and set to different types of waveforms.
  • Currently set to 0% means you can't hear anything.

Transpose and Detune

• Transpose works like in clips, allowing you to transpose by ±48 semitones (four octaves).

  • Default is C3.

• Use Detune for slight out-of-tune samples.

  • You can adjust these settings by an octave.

Voices and Panning

By default, the number of voices is set to six, meaning a maximum of six MIDI notes can play simultaneously.

• If you have more than six MIDI notes, the oldest will be dropped.
• Adjust the voices higher when dealing with numerous MIDI notes.

Additional Settings

• Panning: Set to center, left, right, or anywhere in between.
• Volume: Can be adjusted from +36dB to -36dB.
  • Consider making it a bit louder based on recent changes in the sound.
• Volume can also be modulated with the LFO for a tremolo effect.

Adding Spread

The spread adds a stereo chorus with two voices, each panned hard left and right, and controls levels of detuning.

Final Notes

You can play with the sample and adjust all the settings until you find a sound you like.

Don't forget to save your work!

Let's quickly listen to how it sounds now with the rest of the clips.