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Polyend Tracker Mini Manual

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Polyend
Tracker Mini
Manual
An Official Reference for The Polyend Tracker Mini
The Tracker Mini Notebook : Reference & Guide
I

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Summary of Contents for Polyend Tracker Mini

  • Page 1 Polyend Tracker Mini Manual An Official Reference for The Polyend Tracker Mini The Tracker Mini Notebook : Reference & Guide...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Contents Overview Architecture Projects Pattern Format Sequencing Steps Instruments FX Steps Audio Song Mode Master Effects MIDI Performance Mode System Index Polyend Tracker Mini Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Mini Manual...

  • Page 3: Overview

    The by this quirky programming style of music Tracker Mini journey is unusual, yet fun and at making which may appear unusual, but does the same time a powerful music making unit provide a very powerful and creative approach giving some rewarding results.
  • Page 4 Currently unavailable options will show on the screen as dimmed text. Dynamic screen key examples include [Create Project], [Up] or [Down] options. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 5 Once charged Tracker Mini will operate without the USB power supply being connected. Note Instr FX 2 2. Ensure the SD Card is installed correctly for Tracker Mini to operate. Play Pins should face up towards the front panel. Insert Menu 3.
  • Page 6 There are a number of button commands that operate generically Pages may contain parameters and functions which once selected can be throughout Tracker Mini. These are applied in a variety of situations. adjusted in value. These are applied in a variety of situations.
  • Page 7 1. When powering on, the previous project will be restored. Projects can the defined page. The default pages that are assigned are illustrated below. be changed or new ones created. Tracker Mini will only be able to view up to 100 Projects per folder although user folders can be created.
  • Page 8 If playback is in a stopped state, playback will start at the beginning of the current row. • Press [Shift] + [Insert] when play is stopped to reset the playhead to the start of the song without commencing play. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 9 1.9 QWERTY Keyboard. NOTES NOTES Tracker Mini has 8 tracks, each of which can be configured with unique Some pages will require text editing for naming tracks or projects etc. The patterns made up of one or more instrument combinations. Tracks are same functionality applies whenever the Alpha numeric pop-up editor is structural elements and the track mixer is found in the master section.
  • Page 10 Each page will display the information and control options for the selected The workflow adopted with Tracker Mini will of course develop to fit your personal approach. To get function. While this may be unique to the context there are some common started a typical journey is described below.
  • Page 11 Start Live Recording. Requires an external keyboard to record Pattern Live Rec Start [Shift] + [Rec] notes into the pattern. When live recording, pressing [Rec] will continue to play but Pattern Live Rec > Play [Rec] exit recording mode. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...

  • Page 12: Architecture

    NOTES Architecture Make no mistake, Tracker Mini is a unique yet sections of this notebook, the overall foundation comprehensive device. There are so many and structure is laid out in this chapter. The features that are less obvious to producers...
  • Page 13 While you may think this should be hidden at the back of this book, understanding the terminology Render: This is like internal sampling. To internally associated with these topics and especially the Tracker Mini will help unlock it’s power and capture patterns, tracks or songs into an performance.
  • Page 14 2.2 Tracker Mini Audio Structure 2.3 SD Card Structure. NOTES Micro SD Card The Micro SD Card is an integral part of Tracker Mini and must be inserted Firmware Instruments TrackerLog to operate correctly. An alert message is displayed if Tracker Mini is...
  • Page 15 NOTES NOTES Default SD Card Structure Tracker Mini has a series of built in tips and instructions to help get started with the functions and features. These are automatically available as text SD Card hints which appear at various stages of navigating and manoeuvring /Root Directory through the options and menus.
  • Page 16 [EQ] [More] [Pattern] The Pattern page is the place where most time will be spent in the Tracker Mini workflow Default quick page button 1 - 4 assignments are also shown under the page name. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...

  • Page 17: Projects

    Samples are stored on the or a song for live set. Tracker Mini auto saves Micro SD Card but can be also are held in the projects which are stored on the installed Micro Tracker Mini on board sample pool where SD Card.
  • Page 18 NOTES NOTES A project is the highest order of Tracker Mini’s functions. It allows projects Projects are auto saved but can also be manually saved and renamed. to be managed, saved and loaded and also new projects to be created.
  • Page 19 The Screen buttons offer the main commands in the context of the editor. The following Tracker Mini buttons also operate in the naming editor when the naming screen is presented:- •...
  • Page 20 NOTES ▌ ADJUSTMENT OF THE PROJECT TEMPO The overall tempo of the project is set in the ‘Song’ section of Tracker Mini and has a defined range of 40 - 800 BPM. Tempo can also be modulated 1. Hold [Shift] + [1] to open Song mode.
  • Page 21 NOTES ▌ SETTING THE METRONOME Tracker Mini has a metronome which operates when live recording (not normal playback). This is configurable and selectable on/off within the 1. Hold [Shift] + [4] to open the ‘Config’ Page. Also access in the [Menu].
  • Page 22 Press (Up) or 5. The memory bar chart will indicate the available project memory in (Down) to navigate to the desired listed option. Tracker Mini. This will depend on the type and size of samples selected Sample Loader 0m:00s P1.008...
  • Page 23 Pressing [Cancel], 6 Screen button at any time to leave the import menu without importing. 5. The instrument is removed from the Tracker Mini list but is still present on the SD Card. 5. The sample can have its start [Start], 2 Screen button and end [End], Screen button adjusted.
  • Page 24 Pattern Top Info Patterns only the track name, additional info or off. Selects the audio input of the line in between General Line In Channel Audio stereo, mono left or mono right. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 25 Firmware Update System (default) or external USB or MIDI In jack. located on the SD card in the ‘firmware’ folder. Sets the Tracker Mini clock output. Off, USB, MIDI Displays current version of installed OS. Visual MIDI Clock Out MIDI...

  • Page 26: Pattern Format

    128 steps per track. Patterns are at their structural elements generally. This is a the heart of Tracker Mini and are built in the foundation to patterns and a deeper dive into pattern sequencer. The sequencer is what steps and sequencing comes next.
  • Page 27 Drums, Track 2 for Percussion, Track 3 as Bass etc. Patterns making music. A pattern is the container for steps and establishes the step can be created using steps manually ‘programmed’ into the Tracker Mini or timing and track format. The dynamic screen buttons are used heavily.
  • Page 28 8 or 16 steps and create the beat or melody. This can then be duplicated / extended along with its steps and then edited to create longer passages. More Prior Page Selects the previous page of commands - see above Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 29 P 25 Step 35 Every 2nd Step Deleted Resulting, Halved Pattern P 25 Step … ---- Step 63 Step 64 Step 64 Double the pattern length Blank steps added after each step Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 30 P 25 Step 3 ---- Step 3 ---- ---- P 25 P 25 Step 4 Step 4 ---- Selected Range 2 - 4 Bounded in Red Inverted Range 2-4 Bounded in red Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 31 C5 40 ---- P-25 C5 40 ---- H-25 C5 40 ---- P-20 -- --- ---- ---- the Tracker Mini grid. Cursor will wrap past the C5 40 ---- P-25 C5 02 ---- P-20 C4 12 ---- A 4 -- --- ---- ----...
  • Page 32 ▌ CHANGING BETWEEN VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL VIEW MODE ▌ CHANGING PATTERN TOP INFO DETAILS 1. The default mode is for Tracker Mini to display patterns top to bottom in 1. The default mode is for Tracker Mini to display an information bar plus a vertical arrangement.
  • Page 33 Press [Rec] to toggle the track name editor on or off on the Master Page Play 2/3. Press a screen button 1 - 8 to select the specific track to edit. Insert Menu Delete Copy Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 34 2. To move the position vertically, Press (Up) or (Down). To move the position horizontally across tracks, Press (Left) or (Right). 3. Press [Insert]. A new empty step row is added and the selected step and steps below are moved down. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...

  • Page 35: Sequencing Steps

    Sequencing Steps The process of sequencing steps is the core MIDI steps and patterns will be covered process in Tracker Mini pattern design. Steps specifically in more detail in a later section, and patterns go hand in hand. The pattern...
  • Page 36 A step is a building block which triggers events such as playing a note or Steps are sequenced in the Tracker Mini each of which contains a Note, beat or activating a MIDI action and is used for creating patterns. Steps are Instrument, and two FX slot options.
  • Page 37 [+] / [-] buttons will change in octave increments and inner [+] / [-] buttons will change the note in semitone intervals. 1. The default mode is for Tracker Mini to play patterns and the currently •...
  • Page 38 C5 03 V 50 ---- FX2 Selected, Volume = 50. relative to the original value including any FX Values. Quick Tap Dedicated Parameter Button to lock the selection e.g. [Instrument] for editing Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 39 This speeds up the workflow and helps with creating interesting sequences. 3. Select a new pattern, Press [1] + (Up) or (Down) 4. Hold [1] + [Shift] + [Copy] to paste into the current pattern. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 40 5. Press [Fill], 4 Screen button. This will open the Fill utility pop-up window and be ready to select the criteria to apply to the selected step range and its selected parameter. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 41 A typical Fill window is shown below with a summary of common features. The Fill utility is mainly controlled using the dynamic screen buttons under the Tracker Mini screen. ▌ CREATING A NOTE FILL To access Fill:- 1.
  • Page 42 The default note value is C5 which plays a sample at its original pitch value. The first slice of Where? Fx Type Fill Type From Cancel Fill a beat slice sample will be triggered using note C2. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 43 FX Fills. Some elements like ‘Where?’ and ‘Fill Type’ are generic. creative in generating musical sequences. Euclidean patterns are generated based on a mathematical model where the steps and intervals determine a pattern beat. Tracker Mini uses ‘events’ and the step length to Where? calculate the steps and intervals.
  • Page 44 Gypsy Minor GypsyMin Blues Major Blues Maj Neapolitan Major NeapoMaj Pentatonic Minor Penta Min Neapolitan Minor NeapoMin Pentatonic Major Penta Maj Enigmatic Hungarian Minor Hung Min Not used for Fill Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 45 When either of the 2 FX parameters is selected in the range, fill will apply FX fills. This is based on the effects FX list available within Tracker Mini. • Quantization settings are in the config menu under ‘Recording options’.
  • Page 46 Velocity: Use an external MIDI Keyboard to record in real time velocity values. Velocity is recorded as an FX value. • Microtiming + Velocity. Record into both FX the fixed velocity and real time microtiming values. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 47 7. Notes will be added, displayed with teal coloured text. New notes are always added to an empty step along with the currently selected instrument, coloured yellow. On existing steps, the note is changed and existing instrument retained. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 48 Polyphony & Chords Special Note Commands Each track in Tracker Mini can handle one voice which can play multiple Three special note commands can be applied instead of the actual note notes, but not simultaneously. To create chords, multiple tracks would be value.
  • Page 49 ‘OFF’, ‘FAD’ or ‘CUT’ exists. The default note value is C5 which plays a sample at its original pitch value. The first slice of a beat slice sample instrument with be triggered at C2. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 50 [+] and [-] buttons when in [Rec] mode. In the Effect list window, press the 7 and 8 screen button to toggle the description of the highlighted effect on or off. This is an aid to using the FX. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 51 Sets the playback position for a sample start, wavetable or granular position Plays the selected slice for the step - sliced samples Volume LFO Rate Panning LFO Rate Filter LFO Rate Position LFO Rate Finetune LFO Rate Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...

  • Page 52: Instruments

    NOTES Instruments In the language of Tracker Mini, an instrument section. There are a variety of things that can be is the part of a step that generates sound and done to create an instrument. Working with is essentially based on an audio sample.
  • Page 53 6.2 Instrument Parameter Pages NOTES NOTES An audio instrument is the primary sound source in Tracker Mini and is A series of instrument parameters are accessible for controlling, shaping based on an audio sample. The instrument can be purely an audio sample and modulating the sound.
  • Page 54 Resonance boosts the audio at the selected frequency. Band width (Q) is not adjustable in the Tracker Mini band-pass filter. Frequency Band 1 Semitone Steps (Half steps)
  • Page 55 10. To exit the instrument parameters, select another page e.g. [1]. Delay Reverb Delay Mix & Pan Reverb Send Send Filter Overdrive Bit-depth Sample Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 56 1 step 3/4 step audio information into number of bits. The higher the 1/2 step number the better a signal is represented. Tracker Mini 3/8 step uses 16 Bit audio which is CD standard, but can be 1/3 step reduced to give a more LoFi sound effect.
  • Page 57 As well as the shape, the second key parameter is speed. LFO Speeds in This can transition from a simple, static audio sound (when type is off) to Tracker Mini are hard synchronised to the project tempo and are therefore add some subtle movement to generative and evolving sound designs. Try assigned based on the number or intervals of steps.
  • Page 58 This is normally used to shape the sound of a note and how the sound develops from note on to note off (and beyond). It can also be used as a modulation effect. Tracker Mini uses an ADSR envelope Speed 2 which has 3 time ranges, Attack, Decay and Release plus Sustain level.
  • Page 59 This is the final envelope stage and is activated after the Loop Backward Loop Sample playback. Plays end to start and cycles on loop. note is released - Tracker Mini ‘OFF’ special note command. This is the time period where the sound Loop Pingpong Loop Sample playback.
  • Page 60 Sample tempo and pitch precise editing. Does not affect playback. Zoom Zoom are not automatically analysed in Tracker Mini and therefore not normally known Variable reference point is based on the previously adjusted unless manually noted when sampling and recording the original audio.
  • Page 61 Sample playback is initially triggered and while ever the pattern plays it will continue to loop. * Start / End, Loop Start / End Positions cannot cross over. Start is always before end. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 62 V 10 select the specific slice within a pattern step. Initiates slicing of the sample into the equal spaced Edit Equal Slice Shift + 2nd slices, set by ‘number’. Prompt to confirm. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 63 5. Press [Adjust], 2 Screen Button. Zoom may help create precise edits. • Any new slice added automatically becomes the currently 6. Press (Up) or (Down) to adjust the slice start position. selected slice. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 64 The wavetable play mode is a simplified application of wavetable synthesis Standard Tracker Mini samples can be used ‘out of the box’ or samples and consists of two core parameters. The Window is the wavetable length prepared specifically to suit the application in a wavetable synth and give (samples per frame) and has a maximum value based on the original file.
  • Page 65 ▌ USING WT SMOOTHER TO OPTIMISE SAMPLES Tracker Mini’s factory wavetable files are located in the samples folders on the SD Card. 1. Ensure the sample is loaded to the instrument list and selected as currently active.
  • Page 66 NOTES Modulating Wavetables Granular instruments can be created in Tracker Mini. As with all Tracker Mini instruments, Granular synth uses a sample as its core sound source. The wavetable position is the key parameter to adjust and edit to search for Granular synthesis is ideal for glitchy soundscapes and textural sounds.
  • Page 67 This can be manually adjusted to find a sweet spot or modulated Select the ‘Sample playback’ page to view granular play mode. with the envelope or LFO to introduce movement and interest. Tracker Mini operates with a single grain.
  • Page 68 Files can be copied (Do not Cut / Paste or Delete) between SD Cards. task. A few tips will help manage a library of instruments. Tracker Mini does not have in depth file management functions on board so using a PC or /Drum Kits Mac to access the SD card is required.

  • Page 69: Fx Steps

    It is important to recognise that step effects are different to the general instrument and master effects provided. The normal effect convention is to operate inline or as a send configuration for the audio pathway. The Tracker Mini FX are Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 70 Use the [+] & [-] buttons in recording mode when editing FX parameter values. When adjusting the value for an FX slot with an instrument loaded to the step, the audio applied through the effect will be automatically previewed. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 71 ---- ---- Effect Curtailed edited is solid filled when selected as per illustration where FX1, Step 1 is shown selected. D6 03 ---- ---- D6 03 ---- ---- D6 03 ---- ---- Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 72 D6 03 ---- V 94 D6 03 ---- D6 03 ---- P-38 D6 03 ---- V100 D6 03 ---- V100 D6 03 ---- P-50 D6 03 ---- P-50 Panning Left Right 100% Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 73 ~8sec D6 > D5 D6 > D5 1 Semitone Steps -100 to +100 (Half steps) Cents per Semitone Glide Time Converter (Estimated) [Micro Tune] 0.25 0.5 0.75 1.0 9.4 10.8 12.2 13.6 Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 74 Example 2. Pattern will play at the defined tempo, change when triggered then the pattern will stop when the TSTP event is activated. Stop Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 75 While the range is 0-100%, the actual shift of notes is only in small amounts. The gate operates in The 0% setting is ‘On Grid’ while any nudge is forward in the pattern. conjunction with the ADSR instrument envelope. Note On Gate Length Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 76 RV - Increase Volume Rn - Decrease Note* D6 03 ---- Rn 1 RN - Increase Note* RR - Random Note* --- -- ---- ---- * Note Pitch --- -- ---- ---- Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 77 AR would play C - D# - G in Random order provides scale details for the Arp. Tracker Mini gives a series of scales in the MIDI Chord description. While these are useful A - Arp 0 - MIDI Chord examples they do not fully cover all chords.
  • Page 78 +/- value in the FX. This is applied with reference to the current instrument (Example 4) and determines the +/- offset from which the random note is selected. +2 is the Hat3 and -2 is ClosedHat2. LightHat and Hat Rim are included in this range. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 79 Gate length value is randomised by +/-20 applied by FX1 to the default of 70 in FX2. Therefore gate length value variation will be a value selected between 50 - 90 over each pattern cycle. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 80 Reversed Sample Direction. Playback from ‘End’ to ‘Start’ parameters as set in the sample playback settings. Position ‘p’ Range 0-100% End may need to be adjusted to hear audio within the step duration. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 81 Volume new note step Step g Rate Slice ‘S’ Range 0-48 Rate 48 ‘S’ is aligned for slices e.g. 0-16 Rate 24 ‘S’ Exceeds available slices e.g. S 17-32 = Slice 1-16 Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 82 Step h Rate Rate 16 The impact of the LFO will depend on the type of filter selected and the settings in the filter LFO and settings in the instrument parameters. Rate 8 Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 83 Finetune Sample Position Step Rate Trigger Step Rate Trigger Instrument Pitch Tune -1 Semitone +1 Semitone Start in % Sample in Wavetable of Granular play mode. -50 Cents 50 Cents Start (Default) Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 84 Cutoff Filter Sweep 100% Frequency in % Take care when working with overdrive, especially with headphones. This can become loud. Start with smaller settings and expand as required. < 20Hz > 20KHz Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 85 Sample triggered at step 1 will be fully filtered Band Pass High Pass Cutoff Cutoff Filter Sweep Filter Sweep 100% 100% Frequency in % Frequency in % < 20Hz > 20KHz < 20Hz > 20KHz Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 86 Reverb will have an audio tail beyond its step ---- ---- ---- ---- Master Delay Master Reverb Instrument Instrument Time Size Feedback Damping Step Delay Send Step Reverb Send Sync / Rate Predelay Type Diffusion Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 87 --- -- ---- ---- F5 18 E 12 ---- ---- ---- ---- Root Note Note C4 2 Octaves 1 Octave 1 Octave 2 Octaves (-24 Semitones) (-12 Semitones) (+12 Semitones) (+24 Semitones) Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 88 A value of 16 will slide 1 Semitone. semitone iterations. A value of 16 will slide 1 Semitone. Slide Range Converter (Estimated) Slide Range Converter (Estimated) Value Value Semitones Semitones Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 89 FX1 or FX2 + Value a 24 CC Value to send Mod Wheel. Tracker Mini Chords (Root C Examples) The destination parameter is defined in the instrument Range 0 - 127 parameter settings when a MIDI Instrument is used. Scale...
  • Page 90 Multiple audio sources are Tracker Mini already is supplied out of the box available from which to sample. It is possible to with a number of samples and instruments pre- connect external line level gear or the internal loaded to the supplied SD Card.
  • Page 91 Track Mixer - Page 2 Audio is controlled in the Master pages of which 3 are available and selected by default with button [4]. This is where the Tracker Mini mixer is This Master page controls the track volume levels. Press [4] to cycle found to control the audio levels and also the master effects.
  • Page 92 Hold [Shift] + Press Option Screen Button 1-4 to toggle Solo on/off Tracker Mini is supplied with a 3.5mm Stereo Male Jack to 2 x 6.3mm Mono Female Socket adapter to allow interfacing with external gear and using the more common 6.3mm mono cables.
  • Page 93 NOTES The sample recorder page can select sampling input, but the general input Tracker Mini has two audio inputs that provide a source to sampling and is defined in the ‘Config’ parameter settings. The Mixer passthrough audio recording from external sources. Internal microphone is on the front plate.
  • Page 94 Tracker Mini has an internal microphone which allows capturing of live can hold a lot of high quality samples, Internal memory in Tracker Mini is at vocals or sounds directly into the device. The mic is located on the lower a premium.
  • Page 95 NOTES NOTES Sampling in Tracker Mini takes place in the ‘Sample Recorder’ page. This is Everyone will develop a personal workflow for sampling and the process the first step in the process and is followed by editing the audio captured.
  • Page 96 P1.008 The sampler will capture the audio into the or [+] / [-] buttons. The Level meter should not be lit red but green / Tracker Mini memory buffer and display the amber, approx 70%. recording time. Recording will automatically stop if the memory is full at ~45 Secs.
  • Page 97 Folder location when using the render option in the pattern page. Selection0001.wav /Export/ ProjectName/ Selection - Will save to current project name Rendered Audio file for the selected part of the pattern Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 98 20% faster of the time duration of the playback) and operates by rendering stems one by one. This means when exporting stems the render time can be 2-3 times, maybe even longer than the original song duration. The render progress is displayed when in operation. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 99 Rendered files are 44.1kHz, 16 bit. exported a new folder is created. The folder naming convention is:- track 5.wav Project name_Song_S for Stems + Sequential number track 6.wav track 7.wav track 8.wav Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 100 The start and end points determine the region of the sample which will be affected by the applied effect. The sample can be cropped to the desired positions and save memory by discarding unwanted audio. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 101 Screen Button to hear the newly affected audio Fade Out operates at a fixed setting across the start / end selected part of the sample. • Press [Apply], 8 Screen Button, to confirm and render. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 102 Time Back Preview Apply Length Voices Back Preview Apply 95 % 50 ms 20 ms Original audio sample reversed based on the approximate start / end selection and aligned for smooth transition. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 103 Low attenuation or boost amount, -12 dB to + 12dB. Low Freq Low Frequency range, 10Hz - 200Hz In the context of Tracker Mini sample editing, the process operates at an Low Width Width of EQ, also called Q. Range 0.5 to 5.
  • Page 104 MIDS threshold. Higher ratios are more aggressive. The speed and reaction of the compressor is also governed by an envelope, in Tracker Mini this is an Low Mids can be overloaded with frequencies as many instruments cover this range and muddiness is a common outcome.
  • Page 105 While compression is normally seen as a master effect on many devices Tracker Mini’s limiter has the basic features of threshold which is where and in DAW’s, Tracker Mini does not have a compressor in the master limiting will kick in and also an attack / release envelope which shapes the chain and relies on the master limiter.
  • Page 106 Fade Out. Original Sample Shorter / Faster Original Sample Length 0.1s 0.5s 1.5s 2.5s 3.5s 4.5s 5.5s 6.5s Max 8s Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 107 5. The audio device page will open. This should show all connected 7 & 8 Track 3 Stereo Audio Output devices in the left window pane and will include the Tracker Mini as well 9 & 10 Track 4 Stereo Audio Output as the Mac’s integrated speakers and microphone.
  • Page 108 The guide below assumes using ASIO4ALL. Example Configuration: Tracker Mini out to Ableton Live. 2. Ensure Tracker Mini is connected to the PC via the USB connection. 3. Ensure the ASIO4ALL driver is selected in your chosen DAW as the USB Audio audio interface and open the driver to set up the options.
  • Page 109 A song is the highest level of application to finalise a mix or for mastering or to structure in Tracker Mini and allows the be used to create remixes. This can be used to combination of patterns to play a full ‘song’ and develop a sample library.
  • Page 110 Outro 2 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. Tracker Mini Slot Row 16 Steps 4 Bars per ‘block’ Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 111 Columns represent each of Each slot row hosts a pattern Pattern number assigned Patterns cannot be named in Tracker Mini and are managed in the pattern the tracks in a pattern and plays top to bottom to the song slot...
  • Page 112 When pressing [Play] in Song mode, switching to pattern mode will show each pattern as it is 7. More slots can be added to develop the song further and expand its being played in the song structure. length and duration. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 113 Also selects slot and moves the below slots up the new slot. in the order. Paste the previously copied Copy one or more slot tracks tracks to another location. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 114 [Shift] + [Play] Switches from playing song to play and loop Song to [Loop Pattern] Loop Pattern pattern from current position. Same as Pattern pressing [Shift] + [Play] Screen Buttons Dedicated Buttons Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 115 The ‘Random’ symbol in the header of a page will demonstrate that tracks from various 6. To stop playback immediately while playing from either option, Press patterns can be selected for mixing in performance mode. [Play] or Press [Stop], 1 Screen button to stop playback. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 116 Essentially these are the reverb applied. and delay effects. The main reverb and delay effect settings are accessible from the master Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 117 NOTES NOTES Tracker Mini has 8 voices. Each voice is represented by each of the 8 The 7 master effects are located in the master section of Tracker Mini. This tracks when playing. The common processing of the voices comes together...
  • Page 118 3. The six delay parameters are presented on the master delay page. Rate Options 4. Press [Back], 8 Screen button to return to the master page. 3/16 1/12 1/16 1/24 1/32 Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 119 2. Press [Reverb], 2 Screen button. 3. The four reverb parameters are presented on the master reverb page. 4. Press [Back], 8 Screen button to return to the master page. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 120 Accessed via the Master page 1/3 and selected from the screen buttons. limiter as the last effect in a chain. Insert effects in Tracker Mini route the The behaviour of the limiter as extreme or subtle can be set in the ‘Config’...
  • Page 121 The space option, ranges 0-8 and is a the given frequency. Tracker Mini’s EQ is the last master effect in the chain widener enhancing the stereo image. Bass boost has a 0-100% range with and has 5 fixed frequency bands.
  • Page 122 6. Press [Change], 6 Screen button to change the option. 7. Navigate with the 4 or 5 Screen button and press [Apply], 6 Screen button to accept the option. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 123 MIDI features. MIDI is the together with MIDI and should be considered at protocol which allows devices to communicate the outset. MIDI into Tracker Mini can be set up together, for example where one device through the USB connection or the MIDI controls sequencing to send to another synth.
  • Page 124 To clarify some of the terminology and technology around MIDI with respect A pre-requisite when working with MIDI is to ensure that the configuration to Tracker Mini a summary of key definitions is provided. Tracker Mini uses settings in the ‘Config’ options accessed by [Menu] are applied for the a TRS to Type B MIDI Adapter.
  • Page 125 USB? Which will transmit and receive MIDI with the MIDI 5 Pin connection using the MIDI Jack adapter? Example Configuration 1: Tracker Mini as the primary lead. • Which device will be a primary leader (main controller e.g. main clock) or a secondary follower (will respond to other gear as the lead Tracker Mini: Config >...
  • Page 126 An external device, keyboard or drum pads can be connected to control synths and plug-ins to be controlled by Tracker Mini. Tracker Mini will need a hub or will need to be Tracker Mini by MIDI either by USB or via the 5 Pin MIDI dongle. Notes can powered by the PC / Mac as the USB connection is the source of power for Tracker Mini.
  • Page 127 NOTES The Instrument parameters will reflect the MIDI output options available Tracker Mini has a series of MIDI Instruments that can be assigned to steps when selecting a step with a MIDI instrument configured. The Note is set in in a pattern. MIDI is defined per step, not per track, so MIDI and Audio the step and will be sent on the channel defined in the MIDI instrument.
  • Page 128 C5 M02 V 23 velocity value of 23. The FX value in Tracker Mini is based on a range of 0-100, however most devices and DAWs use a C5 M02 - - a 23 velocity range of 0-127. Bear this in mind when applying and recording FX velocity...
  • Page 129 11. In this example, CC Number 74 (set in step 10 above) will transmit a CC Local On / Off value of 50 (set in step 7 above) over MIDI Channel 1 (set in step 5 above) when the selected step is triggered. All notes off Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 130 [Menu] > Config > MIDI menu along with the CC MIDI standard messages which trigger a change to the current ‘program’ of In channel for the MIDI channel. The MIDI CC Mapping within Tracker Mini an external device by switching presets or configurations. This of course has a set of pre-defined destinations for CC messages.
  • Page 131 8 voices across MIDI. Tracker Mini will operate as a secondary follower Synthesiser accessed through the Instrument Parameter page. to an external controller which will be able to play and control Tracker Mini’s instruments. This also brings a tight integration between Tracker, Tracker Instrument Synthesizer Mode Mini and Polyend Play, where the MIDI CC is pre-mapped.
  • Page 132 Cutoff Automation Type Finetune Cutoff - Attack - Shape LFO 2. Connect the external controller to Tracker Mini, for example using the MIDI In connection and a MIDI cable between devices. Tracker Mini Volume Cutoff - Decay - Speed LFO uses a MIDI dongle to convert between MIDI 5 Pin DIN and Mini Jack.
  • Page 133 NOTES Performance Mode Performance mode is a special Tracker Mini a complete song. Muting can also be managed feature which creates an environment aimed at for tracks in perform mode. Track patterns can live and real-time performances. Ideal when be remixed and combined together with the...
  • Page 134 The top row value cannot be changed. Selected effects are indicated green or red (if editing) on the Tracker Mini screen 6. To temporarily play and adjust a value on the fly ensure [Rec] mode is off.
  • Page 135 Track 8 Red = Effect will be applied Unlit = Effect not applied -50dB Black Text = Muted White Text = Unmuted Track 6 Unlit = Effect not applied Black Text = Muted Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 136 Track 8 Patt: 1 Patt: 1 Patt: 1 Patt: 1 Patt: 1 Patt: 1 Patt: 1 Patt: 1 Swap Effects Select Slot Hold [Shift] + (Right) / (Left) Press (Right) / (Left) Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 137 Tracker Mini has 21 performance effects that can be selected and loaded Tracker Mini can remix tracks on the fly. There are two techniques worth into each of the 12 effect slots. The same effect can be applied to multiple noting when applying track mixing.
  • Page 138 Ensure the MIDI settings for communication and the defined connection type are set correctly in the Config settings to ensure incoming MIDI control, clock, channel, transport etc are received correctly especially for the incoming CC data. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 139 Screen button + (Up) or (Down) buttons to select a new pattern. This will initiate a pattern change immediately. • Press [Pattern], 1 Screen button + [+] or [-], for the new pattern. This will initiate a pattern change immediately. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 140 Registration is performed at might be useful around housekeeping and at Polyend.com. This section not only covers good disciplines in working with Tracker Mini. system wide features but also is a catch all for But there are also some tips that may be topics not covered elsewhere.
  • Page 141 NOTES NOTES In order for Polyend to provide device support and to give access to future Firmware updates may be provided by Polyend from time to time, to fix firmware updates, your Tracker Mini must be registered on the Polyend bugs or add new features.
  • Page 142 The reset option is useful if any lock ups or freezing occurs on Tracker Mini. It is not necessary in these situations to download a new OS. It is advised to keep a series official, known good, firmware releases in the /firmware folder.
  • Page 143 NOTES The ability to change the display and pad style is available in the Tracker Mini has 4 assignable buttons that are used to quickly access configuration setting. This may be useful when working in different operating modes and their pages. Each of physical buttons can have two environments and essentially is based on personal taste.
  • Page 144 NOTES The ability to capture screen images from the currently displayed page is a Tracker Mini can run NES ROM games, and a collection are supplied built in feature of Tracker Mini. readily available and stored in the SD Card games folder and accessed through the ‘File’...
  • Page 145 It is always good practice to backup or even better have a spare SD Card loaded and ready for use with Tracker Mini. The following information on 1. This is recommended as a first task when first operating Tracker Mini to SD compatibility is important:- have the original structure saved.
  • Page 146 Screen button. • Signal to Noise Ratio: 97 dB. • Headphone Output: Hexadecimal to Decimal Converter • Output level: 17.6 dB (when 16k Ohm Load) • Signal to Noise Ratio: 98 dB. Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 147 NOTES Index Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 148 Bit Depth 172 Equal Slicing 124 Global Mixer 182 Low Pass 167 Bitcrusher 204 Equalizer 205–206,  241,  249 Granular 131 lower quality sample 45 Brightness 284 Euclidean Patterns 84–85 Expand Pattern 56 High Pass 169 Manual Recording 73 Chance 150 Export 194,  197 Manual Slicing 124 Chords 94 Master 180 Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 149 Sample Editor Effects 202 Timestretch beat 210 Project 33–34,  38,  40 Sample Formats 187 Timestretch note 210 Off 141,  143,  145 Project Management 35 Sample Playback 117 Track Mixer 181 Overdrive 166,  204 Sampling 189 Tracker Legacy Files 283,  285 Saturation 240 Tracks 16,  61,  65 Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 150 Index Index Transient Slicing 124 Tune 173 USB 212 USB Power 7 User Interface Style 284 Volume 142,  157,  161 Wavetable 126,  134 Workflow 19 WT Smoother 129,  209 Polyend Tracker Mini Manual Polyend Tracker Mini Manual...
  • Page 151 All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review. August 2023 - Tracker Mini OS 1.0.0 Manual Produced in the United Kingdom www.synthdawg.com...