Page 1 Firmware v4.23 User Manual Page 1...
Page 2 Expert Sleepers Ltd. Expert Sleepers Ltd assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this document.
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Table of Contents Introduction............5 B-7 VCO with linear FM......31 Installation............5 B-8 VCO with waveshaping......32 Power requirements........5 Counter..........33 Inputs, Outputs and Controls.......5 C-2 Voltage Controlled Delay Line....34 Inserting a MicroSD card........5 C-3 Clockable Ping Pong Delay (Z feedback) Startup..............6 ..............34 The encoder & menu system.......6 C-4 Clockable Ping Pong Delay (Z input pan) Selecting an...
Page 4 Connections..........118 K-2 Clockable Wavetable LFO....92 Breakout module.........118 K-3 Wavetable Waveshaper......93 MIDI "Low-Voltage Signaling"....118 K-4 Clockable Wavetable Envelope.....93 Controlling the disting mk4 via MIDI..119 K-5 Programmable Quantizer.......94 MIDI Thru..........119 K-6 Clockable SD Delay......96 Calibration............120 K-7 Stereo Clockable SD Delay....97 Calibration Procedure.........120...
Page 5: Introduction
Introduction Congratulations on your purchase of an Expert Sleepers disting mk4. Please read this user manual before operating your new module. Installation House the module in a Eurorack case of your choosing. The power connector is Doepfer standard. If using the power cable supplied with the module, the red edge of the cable is nearest the bottom of the PCB, and carries -12V.
Page 6: Startup
Startup Video When the module powers up it first runs through some patterns on its display. The sequence is as follows: • Each of the seven columns in turn, from left to right. • Each of the five rows in turn, from bottom to top. It then shows the bootloader version (e.g.
Page 7: Settings
Settings Video The disting has a number of settings, which are stored in flash memory. They are accessed by menu 4 "Settings". Once you've entered the Settings menu, turn the encoder to select the setting to change. The settings are: •...
Page 8: Parameters
The default set of help files can be downloaded from the firmware update page here. Simply unzip the file onto your MicroSD card. The file structure should look something like this: i.e. the 'help' folder is at the root level of the card, and inside is a file per algorithm, named 'hXXX.txt', where XXX is the algorithm number, starting from zero for algorithm A1.
Page 9: Tap Tempo
recorder' function. When this is available, holding Z down while turning it causes the Z value changes to be recorded. As soon as the knob is released, the recording is played back in a loop. To end playback, turn the Z knob slightly to regain manual control.
Page 10: Presets
Presets Video The disting can store its current state to flash memory as a preset. The contents of a preset are • the chosen algorithm. • the parameter values. • the current parameter number. Anything controlled by the Z knob/CV is not stored – its value is always defined by the knob position and CV input.
Page 11: Select Bus
Select Bus Video If enabled in the settings, the disting mk4 will respond to save/recall messages on the Select Bus. The Select Bus is a means of inter-module communication currently supported by a handful of modules from various manufacturers, including the...
Page 12: Sd Card Playback
SD Card Playback Supported MicroSD cards In theory any MicroSD card will work, but in practice there is a huge variety of cards on the market and we cannot possibly test them all. We recommend 32GB SDHC cards, and in particular have found "SanDisk Extreme 32GB microSDHC UHS-I U3"...
Page 13: Loop Markers In Audio
The files should be placed in folders on the SD card. Unless noted otherwise, audio playback algorithms all support up to 100 folders of 100 sample files each. The folders themselves should be at the top level of the card i.e. not inside any higher level folder. The disting also supports 'playlist' files, which are simple text files that instruct the disting which files/folders to look at and which ones to ignore, and also allow setting of options on a per-sample file basis.
Page 14: Format
optional. If no playlist is provided, the MIDI playback algorithms search for any '.mid' files in the 'MIDI' folder. Of course, if you do not provide a playlist, you cannot customise the settings for the MIDI files. By default, MIDI algorithms look for a file named 'midi-playlist.txt'. However, each MIDI playback algorithm first looks for an algorithm-specific playlist file, the name of which is specified in the algorithm descriptions below.
Page 15 Setting Default Description retriggerOnSampleChange 1 See below. Play the sample at a fixed pitch, not controlled by the pitch fixedPitch CV (if any). ramp Switch Output B to emit a ramp CV. triggers Switch Output B to emit trigger pulses. Set the number of clocks per loop for the Clocked Audio clocks Playback algorithm.
Page 16: Midi Playlist Format
without an explicit trigger (e.g. when turning the Z knob in the I-1 Audio Playback algorithm). When this is 0 (the default), the new sample starts playing at the same point relative to the start as the previous sample. When set to 1, the new sample starts at the point defined by the start position CV (if the algorithm has one) or at the beginning.
Page 17: Example Files
cc2scale Range for CC#2, in Volts. retriggerOnSampleChange 1 See below. The default behaviour (with retriggerOnSampleChange=1) when selecting a new file is to immediately begin playing the new file. If a file has (or, if the retriggerOnSampleChange=0 default is set to 0) then the next file not begin playback until triggered by the input. The maximum number of MIDI files per playlist is 32.
Page 18: Scale Playlist Format
Example Files A zip file containing some example files, which are known to work, is here Scale Playlist Format A scale playlist file might look something like this: disting playlist v1 -kbm=example.kbm equal.scl pyth_7a.scl pyth_12.scl johnson_7.scl -kbm=7.kbm equal.scl -kbm=root+fifth.kbm This breaks down as: •...
Page 19: Algorithm Overview
Algorithm Overview Precision Adder Four Full-wave Minimum/ Linear/ Quantizer Comparator Dual Quadrant Rectifier maximum Exponential Waveshaper Multiplier Converter Sample and Slew Rate Pitch and Clockable Clockable VCO with VCO with Hold Limiter Envelope Delay/Echo linear FM waveshaping Tracker Counter Voltage Clockable Clockable Resonator...
Page 20: Precision Adder
A-1 Precision Adder Video A = X + Y + offset, or X + offset B = X – Y – offset, or Y ± offset offset = ±10V in steps derived from Z Knob recorder enabled Parameter Min Max Default Description Z Mode.
Page 21: Four Quadrant
A-2 Four Quadrant Multiplier Video A = X * Y * scale B = -X * Y * scale scale = 1/10 to 10x in steps derived from Z Knob recorder enabled Parameter Min Max Default Description Z Mode. -10 10 Y Offset.
Page 22: Linear/Exponential
The Z knob/CV provides a gate function. When Z goes higher than approximately 2.5V, the gate goes high and the outputs follow the inputs according to the min/max relationship. When Z goes below approximately -1.5V, the gate goes low and the outputs are frozen. When the gate changes state, "LO"...
Page 23 Parameter Min Max Default Description Input X attenuation. Transpose mode. -31 31 Key. Offset. MIDI Gate. -48 48 Transpose. MIDI Mode. Output A is a quantized version of input X; the closest whole-semitone value to the unquantized V/octave pitch CV X. Output B is a trigger signal which fires whenever output A changes - a 5V pulse approximately 10ms long.
Page 24: Comparator
constantly sampled and a new note is output as soon as X moves into the next semitone range.) Parameter 2 sets the root key of the chosen scale. At zero, the first note of the scale (e.g. C in the key of C) corresponds to 0V.
Page 25: Dual Waveshaper
clamped at zero. Parameters 0 & 1 apply offsets to inputs X & Y respectively (scaled such that a parameter value of 40 corresponds to 10V). A-8 Dual Waveshaper Video A = shaped X B = shaped Y Z is gain Knob recorder enabled Parameter Min Max Default Description Type A.
Page 26 Video A = X when Y exceeds 1V B = noise ±8V Z is slew rate Parameter Min Max Default Description Mode. Offset. Noise colour. Noise X. Atten B. Up slew. Down slew. If parameter 0 is 0 (the default): Output A is a sample of input X, taken when the trigger input Y goes over 1V.
Page 27: Pitch And Envelope
B-2 Slew Rate Limiter Video A = slew rate limited ( X + Y ) or X B = slew rate limited ( X + Y ) or Y Z is slew rate Parameter Min Max Default Description Up slew. Down slew.
Page 28: Delay/Echo
B-4 Clockable Delay/Echo Video X is signal Y is clock input Z is feedback A = output according to mode B = output according to mode Tap tempo enabled Parameter Min Max Default Description -15 8 Delay time multiplier. Output mode. -33 32 Mix.
Page 29: Lfo
The first parameter applies a multiplier to the delay time, according to the following table: Parameter value Multiplier Parameter value Multiplier Parameter value Multiplier 1/64 3/16 x1.5 1/48 1/32 5/16 1/24 1/16 1/12 B-5 LFO Video X is Hz/V frequency Y is waveshape Z is tune A is saw ->...
Page 30: Lfo
B-6 Clockable LFO Video X is clock input Y is waveshape Z is integer multiplier/divider A is saw -> sine -> triangle B is pulse -> square -> pulse Tap tempo enabled Parameter Min Max Default Description -32 32 Output A attenuverter. -32 32 Output B attenuverter.
Page 31: Vco With
B-7 VCO with linear FM Video X is V/Oct pitch input Y is linear FM input Z is tune ±0.5 octaves A & B are selectable output waveforms Receives MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description -16 8 Octave shift. Sets an attenuation for output A. Sets an attenuation for output B.
Page 32: Waveshaping
B-8 VCO with waveshaping Video X is V/Oct pitch input Y is waveshape/PWM Z is tune ±0.5 octaves or sync A & B are selectable output waveforms Receives MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description -16 8 Octave shift. Sets an attenuation for output A. Sets an attenuation for output B.
Page 33: Counter
mentioned. When the parameter is set to a value from -50 to 50, Z no longer affects the tuning, and the parameter value is used as a fine tune control, in cents. Z then becomes a sync input: when Z goes over approximately 1V, the VCO phase is reset to zero, which can produce 'oscillator sync' sounds MIDI Input: MIDI note messages received on the MIDI channel set in the Settings are converted to...
Page 34: Voltage Controlled Delay Line
C-2 Voltage Controlled Delay Line Video X is audio input Y is delay time Z is feedback (bipolar) A is delay output B is delay output plus input signal Parameter Min Max Default Description -32 32 Applies an offset to the Y input. -32 32 Attenuator for the Y input.
Page 35: Clockable Ping Pong Delay (Z Input Pan)
Input X is the signal input. Any audio signal can be fed in here. Input Y is the clock input. Any clock pulse in excess of 1V can be used. The time between rising trigger edges is used to set the delay time. If the time between triggers is greater than the maximum delay time, the time is divided by two until it is small enough.
Page 36: Resonator
For values above 0, the dry signal level is constant and the delay signal level rises with the parameter value. The delay feedback is set via parameter 0. C-5 Resonator Video X is audio or trigger input Y is centre frequency (pitch) Z is gain A is audio output B is envelope of audio output...
Page 37: Phaser
X is the modulator input, and Y is the carrier input. A is the audio output. B outputs a CV related to the envelope of the modulator signal. The Z control sets the decay time of the internal envelope trackers, which track each band of the modulator signal.
Page 38: Crusher
C-8 Bit Crusher Video X is signal input Y is sample rate or signal (stereo) input Z sets bit reduction A is signal output B is comparator or signal (stereo) output Parameter Min Max Default Description -31 31 Applies an offset to the Y input. Selects the bit reduction mode.
Page 39: Filter
Parameter 1 selects the type of bit reduction. The positive and negative sections of the input signal can have different types of reduction applied. Parameter 1 value Positive signal Positive signal Type I Type I Type II Type II Type I Type II Type II Type I...
Page 40: Delay
D-2 Tape Delay Video X is audio input Y is tape speed Z is feedback A = output according to mode B = output according to mode Parameter Min Max Default Description Tape length. Fine length control. Tape speed. Output mode. -33 32 Mix.
Page 41: Animator
D-3 Waveform Animator Video X is audio input Y is threshold Z is separation A = animated output B = square waves output Parameter Min Max Default Description LFO depth. -31 31 Y offset. LFO rate. Scale. This algorithm recreates a popular analogue circuit variously known as a waveform animator or wave multiplier.
Page 42: Filter
D-4 State Variable Filter Video X is audio input Y is filter frequency Z is filter type A is filter output LP->BP->HP B is filter output HP->BP->LP Parameter Min Max Default Description -80 80 Y Offset. Filter resonance. This is a 2nd-order filter, with a voltage controllable response type. By varying Z, the output can be low pass, band pass or high pass, or blends in between.
Page 43: Filter
D-6 LP/BP Filter Video X is audio input Y is filter frequency Z is filter resonance A is low pass filter output B is band pass filter output Parameter Min Max Default Description -80 80 Y Offset. This is a filter with simultaneous low pass and band pass outputs. X is the audio input.
Page 44: Envelope
X is the audio input. Y sets the filter frequency, with a 1V/octave response. The 0V point is C3 (approximately 130.81Hz). Parameter 0 is added to the Y CV; its range of ±80 corresponds to ±5V. Z controls the filter resonance. E-1 AR Envelope Video X is trigger input...
Page 45: Vca
MIDI Input: Any MIDI note messages received on the MIDI channel set in the Settings trigger the envelope. E-2 AR Envelope & VCA Video X is trigger input Y is VCA input Z sets the envelope times A is envelope output B is VCA output Press Z to trigger Receives MIDI...
Page 46: Envelope
If parameter 2 is set to the special value 41, output A becomes an end-of-cycle trigger output, generating a 10ms 5V pulse at the end of the envelope's release stage. Parameters 6 & 7 set the attack and release shapes of the envelope respectively, from an exaggerated exponential curve at 0 to an almost linear shape at 32.
Page 47: Compressor
Parameters 6 & 7 set the attack and release shapes of the envelope respectively, from an exaggerated exponential curve at 0 to an almost linear shape at 32. Pushing the Z knob has the same effect as triggering both envelopes via the X & Y inputs. MIDI Input: Any MIDI note messages received on the MIDI channel set in the Settings trigger envelope A;...
Page 48: Compressor
Video X is left input Y is right input A is left output B is right output Z is side-chain input Parameter Min Max Default Description -36 0 Threshold. Attack time. Release time. Make-up gain. Lookahead. Compression ratio. This algorithm is much the same as E-4 Stereo Compressor above, except that the gain reduction is driven not by the audio signal itself, but by a side-chain input.
Page 49: Converter
infinity (effectively limiting rather than compression) at fully clockwise. Parameter 0 sets the threshold level above which compression applies (in dB). Parameters 1 & 2 set the attack and release times. The attack time range is approximately 0.1ms-1s; the release time range is approximately 1ms-3s. Parameter 3 sets the make-up gain (in dB).
Page 50: Converter
E-8 Buchla to Euro Converter X is 1.2V/octave input Y is gate/trigger input Z is tune ±0.5 octaves A is 1V/octave output B is trigger output Parameter Min Max Default Description Octave shift. No video yet - we don't own a Buchla! Volunteers please get in touch. This algorithm is for interfacing Buchla synths with Eurorack (or more generally, any analogue synths using the 1V/octave standard).
Page 51: Clockable Ad Envelope (With Gate)
exponential curve at 0 to an almost linear shape at 32. A & B both output the envelope CV. Parameters 1 & 2 are attenuverters, which can attenuate and/or invert the signal for each output independently. The unattenuated envelope level is 8V. If parameter 1 is set to the special value 41, output A becomes an end-of-cycle trigger output, generating a 10ms 5V pulse at the end of the envelope's release stage.
Page 52: Clockable Ad Envelope (With Trigger)
F-3 Clockable AD Envelope (with trigger) Video X is clock input Y is trigger input Z sets the envelope shape A is envelope output B is envelope output Tap tempo enabled Parameter Min Max Default Description -15 8 Delay time multiplier. -40 41 Output A Attenuverter.
Page 53: Clockable Ad Envelope & Vca
F-4 Clockable AD Envelope & VCA Video X is clock input Y is VCA input Z sets the envelope shape A is envelope output B is VCA output Tap tempo enabled Parameter Min Max Default Description -15 8 Delay time multiplier. -40 41 Output A Attenuverter.
Page 54 Video X is clock input Y is modify input Z sets the randomness A is unipolar output B is bipolar output or trigger Receives MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description Direction. Length. Slew rate. -40 40 Output attenuverter. -40 40 Offset.
Page 55 they tend to generate. Parameter 1 sets the length of the shift register, and so the length of the repeating CV pattern in terms of clocks. Parameter 2 sets the output slew rate. This has the same effect as the Slew Rate Limiter algorithm being applied to the outputs.
Page 56 Video X is clock input Y is modify input Z sets the randomness A is quantized CV output B is trigger output Outputs & Receives MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description Direction. Length. Scale. -40 40 Output attenuverter. MIDI Gate. -48 48 Transpose.
Page 57: Shift Register Random Quantized Cvs. 55 Triggers
MIDI Output: each new note (i.e. when the Output B trigger fires) is output as a MIDI note message on the MIDI channel selected in the settings. MIDI Input: if parameter 7 is non-zero, incoming MIDI clock advances the shift register, according to the table above.
Page 58: Shift Register Random Dual Triggers
according to the table above. F-8 Shift Register Random Dual Triggers Video X is clock input Y is modify input Z sets the randomness A is trigger output A B is trigger output B Press Z to modify sequence Receives MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description Length A.
Page 59: Emulation
X is input 1 Y is input 2 Z is trim A is output 1 B is output 2 This algorithm provides a software implementation of the Expert Sleepers ES-1 module. This in conjunction with the Silent Way AC Encoder plug-in this allows you to pass CVs from your DAW to your modular via an AC coupled audio interface.
Page 60: Reference
Z sets the amplitude of the outputs. When the pitch is changed, the note name is scrolled across the display, first as a normal name (e.g. 'C#4') and then as a MIDI note number (e.g. 61). G-4 Frequency Reference Video X &...
Page 61: Clock
Parameter 0 sets the tuning reference frequency, relative to A = 440Hz. E.g. set the parameter to -8 for A = 432Hz. G-6 Clock Video X is clock input Y is run/stop input A & B are clock outputs Z is ratchet Z press is start/stop or tap Outputs &...
Page 62 Value Mode Description Start/Stop Push Z to start the internal clock; push it again to stop the clock. Parameter 5 sets the tempo, as 120 plus the parameter value (i.e. the range is 0-240 bpm). Tap Tempo Push Z five times to start the clock (i.e. a one bar count-in in 4 time). Hold Z for 2 seconds to stop the clock.
Page 63: Midi/Cv
Value Y mode Description Not used. The X clock is taken to start as soon as pulses appear on the X input, and is assumed to have stopped if no pulses appear for two seconds. Run/stop for X. The X clock is ignored until Y goes high (over 1V) and stops when Y goes low.
Page 64 Performs a MIDI to CV conversion on MIDI notes arriving on the disting's MIDI port. The received MIDI channel is selected in the settings. Parameter 6 sets the mode of operation. Parameter value Mode description Output A is the pitch CV output; output B is the gate output. Output A is the pitch CV output;...
Page 65: Cv/Midi
G-8 CV/MIDI Video X is pitch CV input Y is gate input A & B pass through X & Y Z is mod wheel or velocity CV input Outputs MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description Channel offset. -127 127 0 Z mode.
Page 66: Usage
Viewed as mono outputs, A provides a crossfaded mix of X & Y, while B provides a mix with an inverted mix control. In both cases Z provides the pan position or crossfade amount. When Z is turned, the crossfade position is displayed as a percentage (so 50% is an equal mix of the two sources/centre pan).
Page 67: Scale)
Video A = X when Z exceeds 1V B = Y when Z exceeds 1V Parameter Min Max Default Description Mode. Offset. Noise X. Noise Y. Slew A. Slew B. If parameter 0 is 0 (the default): Output A is a sample of input X, taken when the trigger input Z goes over 1V. (Sample and Hold) If parameter 0 is 1: Output A follows input X while input Z is over 1V.
Page 68: Dual Quantizer
When Z changes, the scale is displayed on the LEDs. The scale's number in the following table is shown, and after a short pause, the scale's name. Number Scale Displayed name chromatic Chromatic major scale Major minor scale Minor major triad Triad minor triad 3b+5...
Page 69 Video A = quantized( X ) B = quantized( Y ) Z is trigger Outputs & Receives MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description Input X attenuation. Input Y attenuation. -18 18 X scale/trigger mode. -18 18 Y scale/trigger mode. MIDI Gate. Offset.
Page 70: Dual Euclidean
If the scale selected is 'MIDI 1' or 'MIDI 2' (values 17 & 18) the candidate notes for quantization are set via MIDI. The algorithm listens for MIDI note on messages and uses the received notes for the quantization pattern. While any notes are held, playing new notes adds to the pattern. When all notes are released and a new note played, the pattern is reset and formed from the new note.
Page 71: Dual Delayed Pulse
see e.g. here here A pattern is described by the total number of steps (controlled by parameter 0) and the number of pulses (i.e. the number steps on which a pulse is output) (controlled by parameter 1 for output A and by Z for output B).
Page 72: Noise
Parameter 0 controls the function of Z: Parameter 0 value Z function Z controls delay Z controls length Output override (high). Z over 1V forces both outputs high. Output override (low). Z over 1V forces both outputs low. Input enable. Z below 1V disables input triggers. Input disable.
Page 73: Quantizer 2
H-8 Quantizer 2 Video X is pitch CV input Y is trigger input or pitch CV input Z sets the interval between A & B A is quantized CV out B is quantized CV out Receives MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description Pattern.
Page 74: Audio Playback
Parameter 2 sets the key to quantize into. The displayed key names assume that 0V pitch CV corresponds to the note C. The parameter value does not represent semitones, but degrees around the circle of fifths. Equivalently, the parameter indicates the number of sharps or flats: Parameter value Key Parameter value Key D♭...
Page 75 Video X is retrigger CV Y is start position CV Z selects the sample A is left audio output B is right audio output Z press retriggers sample Parameter Min Max Default Description Folder. Envelope time. 127 0 Start offset. This algorithm continuously plays audio files, in a manner very much inspired by Tom Whitwell's Radio Music module.
Page 76: Clocked Audio
I-2 Clocked Audio Playback Video X is retrigger CV Y is clock Z selects the sample, or start position A is left audio output B is right audio output Z press retriggers sample Parameter Min Max Default Description Folder. Envelope time. Selects the sample and function of Z.
Page 77 0V input i.e. playing the sample at its natural pitch. MIDI pitch bend is supported; parameter 4 sets the bend depth in semitones. Parameter 3 'MIDI mode' allows for polyphonic operation, using multiple disting mk4 modules. If the parameter is -1 or 0, the module responds to MIDI like a monophonic synthesizer .
Page 78: Audio Playback With Z
select a 'round robin' allocation scheme, which often works better with samples with a decay tail. This is done by sending MIDI CC #21 with a value of the number of polyphonic voices available. Sending this CC also resets the round robin to voice 1 (you may like to do this at the start of a song playback, for example, to ensure consistent results on each play).
Page 79: Audio Playback With
Similar to “I-4 Audio Playback with Z Speed” except that the playback speed is allowed to go negative i.e. the sample can play backwards. Playback speed is linear with Z, with a maximum of around 2x speed, and with 0V/center Z corresponding to a speed of zero. Input Y selects the sample.
Page 80: Audio Playback With
I-7 Dual Audio Playback Video X is trigger A Y is trigger B Z selects the samples A is left audio output B is right audio output Parameter Min Max Default Description Folder. Selects the panning option. Envelope time. This algorithm simultaneously plays two audio files, each with its own trigger input. It was developed particularly with drum triggering in mind, but all the usual playback options are supported.
Page 81: (Clocked)
Video X is trigger A Y is trigger B Z sets the playback speed A is left audio output B is right audio output Parameter Min Max Default Description Folder. Selects sample A. Selects sample B. Selects the panning option. Select which sample(s) are affected by Z.
Page 82: Playback
Video X is clock Y is retrigger CV Z selects the MIDI file A is pitch CV output B is gate output Outputs MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description Selects the MIDI file. Algorithm-specific playlist filename: midi-playlist-clocked.txt This algorithm plays MIDI files, converting the MIDI into CV outputs on A & B (as detailed above).
Page 83: Running)
The other main difference between this and the monophonic Multisample Audio Playback algorithm is in the behaviour of the pitch CV input. In the monophonic algorithm the pitch CV is used to choose the sample when triggered, but also continues to be 'live' during the playback, allowing bends, vibrato etc.
Page 84: Midi File Playback
Please see video for Clocked mode above. Algorithm-specific playlist filename: midi-playlist-free.txt This algorithm plays MIDI files, converting the MIDI into CV outputs on A & B (as detailed above). The current MIDI file is selected via the parameter i.e. by turning the S knob. The playback speed is set by a combination of the Z knob/CV and the X CV.
Page 85: Audio Recorder
J-5 Audio Recorder Video X is left audio input Y is right audio input Z controls recording A is left audio output B is right audio output This algorithm records the incoming audio to a WAV file on the MicroSD card. X &...
Page 86: Multisample Playlists
Video X is retrigger CV Y is V/octave pitch CV Z is tune ±0.5 octaves A is left audio output B is right audio output Parameter Min Max Default Description Folder. Octave shift. Envelope time. MIDI mode. Pitch bend depth. Gate offset.
Page 87 Within a folder, if the files looked like this: then "playlist.txt" might contain disting playlist v1 -loop=0 -retriggerOnSampleChange=0 thumbf2.wav -natural=41 thumbc3.wav -switch=44 -natural=48 thumbg3.wav -switch=52 -natural=55 thumbe4.wav -switch=60 -natural=64 In this case we've turned off looping (the files are quite percussive thumb piano samples) and turned off retriggerOnSampleChange, so a new sample is chosen only when a trigger is received.
Page 88: Mono Audio Recorder
In our tests, stereo files can only be raised by about a fourth. Mono files can be 16 Expert Sleepers have long had a love affair with crossfade sample looping. Our plug-in Crossfade Loop Synth dates back to 2004 (http://expert-sleepers.co.uk/xfadelooper_1_3.html) and is itself inspired by the Roland S-330 hardware sampler (http://www.vintagesynth.com/roland/s330.php), with which we made a lot of music in the early...
Page 89 played at considerably higher pitches. The Z knob/CV selects the sample. The transition from one sample to the next is a smooth crossfade. Note that if the sample has the 'retriggerOnSampleChange' option set to 0, changing Z will not change the sample – it will only change when playback is stopped and restarted (by the X CV or manually via parameter 3).
Page 90: Wavetable Vco
K-1 Wavetable VCO Video X is V/Oct pitch input Y is wavetable input Z is tune ±0.5 octaves A is wavetable output B is sub-octave square output or detuned output Receives MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description Chooses the wavetable. -16 8 Octave shift.
Page 91: Loading Wavetables
Loading wavetables All wavetable files need to be in a top-level folder on the SD card called 'wavetables'. Within the 'wavetables' folder, wavetables can take of one two forms: a single WAV file containing all the waveforms concatenated, or a folder of WAV files, one per waveform. By default the disting will consider all WAV files and folders of WAV files in the 'wavetables' folder as wavetables.
Page 92: Lfo
An example using a concatenated wavetable file would look like this: where "playlist-wavetable.txt" contains disting playlist v1 PPG_wavetable_01.wav -wavelength=256 AKWF_0001 AKWF_0002 The first entry 'PPG_wavetable_01.wav' is used as a single WAV file containing concatenated wave cycles, each of length 256 frames. The remaining entries are taken as folders of individual wave samples.
Page 93: Clockable Wavetable K-3 Wavetable Waveshaper
table. Parameter 1 offsets the Y CV, effectively providing a means of manual wave selection. The Z knob/CV sets a scale factor which is applied to the cycle time. The scale is an integer (whole number) which either multiplies or divides the frequency, and ranges in value from 1-16. When Z changes, the scale is shown on the display.
Page 94: Quantizer
Video X is clock input Y is wavetable input Z is trigger A & B are wavetable output Parameter Min Max Default Description Chooses the wavetable. -32 32 Y Offset. -32 32 Output A attenuverter. -32 32 Output B attenuverter. -15 8 Envelope time multiplier.
Page 95 Video A = quantized( X+Y ) B = trigger on note change Z is slew Y = pitch or trigger Outputs MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description Scale. Input X attenuation. Input Y attenuation. -31 31 Transpose. Offset. Mode. Output A is a quantized version of the sum of inputs X & Y, according to the scale chosen with parameter 0.
Page 96: Clockable Sd
Parameter 4 sets an offset between the timing of the X & Y inputs (in sample frames). When using Y as a trigger, it is often a good idea to delay it slightly relative to the pitch, to ensure that the pitch has changed and settled before the trigger samples a new note.
Page 97: Delay
Outputs A & B carry signals according to parameter 2: Parameter value Output mode A is mix; B is delay only. A & B are mix. A & B are delay only. 'Mix' is a mix of the dry (undelayed) signal and the delay effect. The amount of delay in the mix rises in direct proportion to the amount of feedback.
Page 98: Stereo Clockable Sd K-8 Stereo Clockable Sd Delay
Please be sure to read the 'SD card requirements' box. Since this algorithm uses Z for the clock, the delay feedback is set by parameter 1. A value of 32 corresponds to 100% feedback. This algorithm is affected by the 'SD delay max' setting – see above. L-1 Stereo Reverb Video X is left input...
Page 99: Reverb
Parameter 6 applies a high pass filter to the reverb input. The range of cutoff frequencies is approximately 3Hz to 1.6kHz. L-2 Mono-to-Stereo Reverb Video X is audio input Y is feedback CV A is left output B is right output Z is wet/dry or freeze Z press is freeze Parameter Min Max Default...
Page 100: Mono-To-Stereo L-3 Dual Reverb
L-3 Dual Reverb Video A is X plus reverb B is Y plus reverb Z is wet/dry or freeze Z press is freeze Parameter Min Max Default Description Size. Feedback. Character. Low pass filter. Gain. -33 32 Wet/dry. High pass filter. A dual mono reverberation effect.
Page 101 X & Y are inputs A & B are outputs Z is vowel selection Parameter Min Max Default Description Vowel A. Vowel B. -20 0 BPF gain 2. -20 0 BPF gain 3. A dual vowel filter effect. A set of three bandpass filters (BPFs) is used to mimic the response of the human vocal tract, resulting in vowel-like sounds when provided suitable source material.
Page 102: Low Pass
L-5 Stereo Chorus Video X is audio input Y is LFO rate A is left output B is right output Z is wet/dry Parameter Min Max Default Description LFO depth. -64 32 Y offset. -63 63 Feedback. Lowpass filter. Delay time. -32 32 Fine delay time.
Page 103: Chorus
L-6 Mono Chorus Video X is audio input Y is LFO rate A is blended output B is wet output Z is wet/dry Parameter Min Max Default Description LFO depth. -64 32 Y offset. -63 63 Feedback. Lowpass filter. Delay time. -32 32 Fine delay time.
Page 104: Mixer
L-7 Mixer Video X & Y are inputs A is left output B is right output Z is pan for input X Knob recorder enabled Parameter Min Max Default Description -40 6 Input X gain. -40 6 Input Y gain. -32 32 Y pan.
Page 105: Lfo
M-1 Delayed LFO Video A and B are LFOs, ramps, or ramped LFOs X is trigger input Y is ramp time Z is LFO speed Parameter Min Max Default Description Output type A. Output type B. -32 32 LFO speed range. -32 32 Ramp time range.
Page 106: Lfo
M-2 Scaled LFO Video A and B are LFOs X and Y are min/max or offset/scale Z is LFO speed Parameter Min Max Default Description Output type A. Output type B. -32 32 LFO speed range. Mode. -48 48 X Offset. -48 48 Y Offset.
Page 107: Logic
M-3 Logic Video A and B are logic outputs X and Y are inputs Z selects logical operation for output A Parameter Min Max Default Description Output B logical operation. -100 100 20 Input X threshold. -100 100 20 Input Y threshold. -100 100 10 Input X hysteresis.
Page 108: Filter
Video A and B are outputs X and Y are inputs Z is threshold Knob recorder enabled Parameter Min Max Default Description Mode. This algorithm processes the inputs with half-wave rectification , in one of two different ways. Equally useful for audio and CV manipulation, this allows you to split a bipolar signal into its positive and negative sections, and to combine two different waveforms, using the positive part of one and the negative part of the other.
Page 109: Delay
M-6 Stereo Tape Delay Video X is left input Y is right input A is left output B is right output Z is tape speed or feedback Parameter Min Max Default Description Tape length. Fine length control. Feedback. -33 32 Mix.
Page 110 Video X is audio input Y is pitch 1V/octave A is mix output B is pitch shifted output Z is mix or freeze Z press is freeze Parameter Min Max Default Description Grain length. Window type. Delay. Feedback. -48 48 Y Offset (semitones).
Page 111: Chaos
becomes a gate control for the Freeze function, freezing the buffer when the CV goes over approximately 1V. M-8 Chaos Video X & Y influence the chaos A & B are chaotic outputs Z is speed Parameter Min Max Default Description -64 32 Range.
Page 112: Switch
The Z knob/CV sets the speed of the simulation i.e. the rate at which the outputs change. Parameter 0 sets the range of speed values attainable, in quarter octaves (i.e. raising the value by 4 doubles the speed). Parameters 2 & 3 are attenuverters for outputs A & B. Parameters 4 &...
Page 113: Rotary
to the parameter value to get the chance in %. The default value of 99 means a 100% chance of the switch transitioning; a value of -1 means a 0% chance i.e. the switch will never change. N-2 Rotary Video X is audio input Y is mix A and B are stereo outputs...
Page 114: Gate
Video A = X * scale + offset B = Y * scale + offset Z is not used Parameter Min Max Default Description -100 100 50 Attenuversion A. -100 100 0 Offset A. -100 100 50 Attenuversion B. -100 100 0 Offset B.
Page 115 Video X is V/Oct pitch input (fundamental) Y is V/Oct pitch input (formant) Z is tune or masking A & B are pulsar outputs Receives MIDI Parameter Min Max Default Description Chooses the wavetable. Chooses the wave. Window. Y Mode. Masking.
Page 116: Shifter
set by Z. If parameter 4 is 2 or more, burst masking is applied – the parameter sets a number of pulsarets, and Z controls how many pulsarets within that number will be masked. Parameter 5 offsets the X input in octave steps. MIDI Input: MIDI note messages received on the MIDI channel set in the Settings are converted to a CV which is added to that on input X.
Page 117: Pong
Video X is signal Y is frequency shift Z is frequency shift A & B are signal outputs Parameter Min Max Default Description Range. B mode. Include Z. This algorithm is a frequency shifter. Note that this is very different from a pitch shifter. X is the audio input.
Page 118: Midi Introduction
MIDI I/O Introduction The disting mk4 has a pair of industry standard MIDI ports - one input, one output - which can be used to connect to a huge variety of external equipment. Connections The MIDI ports are exposed on a 4-pin expansion header (labelled GT2) at the top of the PCB: All of the necessary electronics are on the PCB;...
Page 119: Midi
Association has now released a reference hardware design based on 3.3V, which they call the "Low-Voltage Signaling" standard, and it is this that the disting mk4 uses. The disting is therefore fully compatible with any device that adheres strictly to the MIDI specification, but may not be with devices that play fast and loose with the spec and assume 5V.
Page 120: Calibration
Calibration Here you will find details of • How a disting is calibrated. • How to use the calibration data in your own code. The disting is calibrated before it leaves the factory. It is not expected that you would need to do this yourself in normal circumstances.
Page 121 From these we can derive constants A, Br, D, Er so that conversion between codec codes and actual voltages can be handled simply in the code as follows: int vL = ( ( inL - A[0] ) * Br[0] ) >> 24; int vR = ( ( inR - A[1] ) * Br[1] ) >>...
Page 122: Updates
Firmware Updates Video The disting mk4's firmware can be updated using a Micro SD card. The process is as follows: • Download the firmware from the Expert Sleepers website • Unzip the download. • Copy the file 'disting4.bin' (firmware versions from 4.15 for bootloader version b2) or 'image.hex' (firmware versions up to 4.14.2 for bootloader version b1) from the unzipped...
Page 123: Acknowledgments
Acknowledgments The font used in the disting mk4 is an adapted version of 'Tom Thumb' by Robey Pointer. More on the font here. Page 123...