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Polyend Tracker Manual

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

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  • Page 1 Polyend Tracker Manual An Official Reference for The Polyend Tracker The Tracker 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...

  • Page 3: Overview

    Trackers emerged in the late 80’s multiple workflow environments. With a small as music making tools mainly on gaming form factor and low energy usage Tracker is an machines. Later in the early 90’s Trackers also ideal portable ‘all in one’ workstation. The feature became popular on personal computers.
  • Page 4 The function it serves will be labelled on the screen above each button on the device. Currently unavailable options will show on the tracker screen as dimmed text. An example is [Create Project]. Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 5 Navigation Buttons Note that while the screen brightness is adjustable, the that interfere with the continuous supply required by Tracker. USC - C to USB - B command buttons are not backlit which may be an issue in dark Four navigation buttons [Up], [Down], [Left], [Right]. Used cable supplied.
  • Page 6 3. Press [Play] to play the currently active pattern. 1. When powering on the previous project will be restored. Projects can be changed or new ones created. Tracker has a maximum 100 Projects 4. Press [Play] to stop playback on the current step.
  • Page 7 1.6 QWERTY Keyboard. NOTES NOTES Tracker has 8 tracks, each of which can be configured with unique patterns Some pages will require text editing for naming tracks or projects etc. The made up of one or more instrument combinations. Tracks are structural same functionality applies whenever the Alpha numeric pop-up editor is elements and the track mixer is found in the master section.
  • Page 8 Each page will display the information and control options for the selected The workflow adopted with Tracker 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 9 Will lock the selection of the Note, Instrument, FX1 or FX2 Sample Pattern Tap Dedicated Param Btn Batch Select [Shift] + Arrows Batch select sample in the sample loader Selection Loader parameter when editing or navigating. Also [Shift] + Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...

  • Page 10: Architecture

    NOTES Architecture Make no mistake, Tracker is a unique yet the following sections of this notebook, the comprehensive device. There are so many overall foundation and structure is laid out in this features that are less obvious to producers section.
  • Page 11 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 will help unlock it’s power and performance. capture patterns, tracks or songs into an It makes sense to become familiar early with the essential terms to help embed into your workflow exportable audio sample.
  • Page 12 2.2 Tracker Audio Structure 2.3 SD Card Structure. NOTES Micro SD Card The Micro SD Card is an integral part of Tracker and must be inserted to Firmware Instruments trackerLog operate correctly. An alert message is displayed if Tracker is powered up...
  • Page 13 NOTES NOTES Default SD Card Structure Tracker has a series of built in tips and instructions to help get started with the functions and features. These are automatically available as text hints SD Card which appear at various stages of navigating and manoeuvring through the /Root Directory options and menus.
  • Page 14 [Reverb] [Delay] [Sample Editor] [Select Effect] [Limiter] [Sample Recorder] [EQ] [Pattern] [More] The Pattern page is the place where most time will be spent in the Tracker workflow Audio [Instrument Parameters] [Instrument Parameters] [Effects] Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...

  • Page 15: Projects

    Samples are stored on the Micro SD Card but as a fully arranged song for an album or a song can be also are held in the Tracker on board for live set. Tracker auto saves projects, which sample pool where samples effectively become are stored, on the installed Micro SD Card.
  • Page 16 ▌ CREATING A NEW PROJECT 1. Press [File] to open the file browser menu. Project - Max 100 Available in Tracker. More projects can be available on the SD Card but tracker can access 100. 2. Press [New Project] - 1 screen button.
  • Page 17 ‘j’ keys are highlighted and lit on the pads to serve as a reference. The Screen buttons offer the main commands in the context of the editor. The following Tracker buttons also operate in the naming editor when the naming screen is presented:- •...
  • Page 18 NOTES ▌ QUICK ADJUSTMENT OF THE PROJECT TEMPO The overall tempo of the project is set in the ‘Song’ section of Tracker and has a defined range of 40 - 800 BPM. Tempo can also be modulated by 1. Press [Song] + Turn (Jog) or Press [Up] or [Down] to change the tempo using the FX slots in a step with the ‘T’...
  • Page 19 NOTES NOTES ▌ SETTING THE METRONOME Tracker has a metronome which operates when live recording (not normal playback). This is configurable and selectable on/off within the ‘Config’ 1. Press [Config] to open the project configuration menu. menu under the ‘Metronome’ options.
  • Page 20 Press [Up] or [Down] or Turn (Jog) to navigate to the desired listed option. 5. The memory bar chart will indicate the available project memory in tracker. This will depend on the type and size of samples selected and Sample Loader 0m:00s P1.008...
  • Page 21 6. The memory bar chart will indicate the available project memory in great feature when samples are too long or only a portion is needed. tracker. This will depend on the type and size of samples selected and may limit the amount of instruments available in the instrument list.
  • Page 22 Adjusts the brightness of the 4 x 12 grid pads: General Pad Brightness System High, Medium, Low. Allows the grid pads to be used to highlight notes General Pads Preview in the active track or pattern lines in the grid editor. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 23 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 24: Pattern Format

    128 steps per track. Patterns are at their structural elements generally. This is a the heart of Tracker and are built in the pattern foundation to patterns and a deeper dive into sequencer. The sequencer is what makes steps and sequencing comes next.
  • Page 25 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 or by timing and track format. The dynamic screen buttons are used heavily.
  • Page 26 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 27 Step … ---- 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 28 P 25 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 29 P1.008 1.Analog 3 18p Press [Shift] + [Insert / Home] when the sequencer is stopped. Press [Up] or [Down] or Turn (Jog) to navigate vertically in the Tracker grid. Cursor will wrap Track 1 Track 2 Track 3 Track 4...
  • Page 30 ▌ CHANGING BETWEEN VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL VIEW MODE ▌ CHANGING PATTERN TOP INFO DETAILS 1. The default mode is for Tracker to display patterns top to bottom in a 1. The default mode is for Tracker to display an information bar plus the vertical arrangement.
  • Page 31 Example = 3. Example = 7. Press [Rec] to toggle the track name editor on or off on the [Master] Page 2/3. Press a screen button 1 - 8 to select the specific track to edit. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 32 2. To move the position vertically, Press [Up] or [Down] or Turn (Jog). To move the position horizontally across tracks, or Press [Left] or [Right]. 3. Press [Insert / Home]. A new empty step row is added and the selected step and steps below are moved down. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 33 This section goes further into the comfortable in using Tracker. workflow and process of sequencing steps and takes a deeper dive and more advanced view.

  • Page 34: Sequencing Steps

    A step is a building block which triggers events such as playing a note or Steps are sequenced in the Tracker each of which contains a Note, beat or activating a MIDI action and is used for creating patterns. Steps are Instrument, and two FX slots options.
  • Page 35 Instrument: Hold [Instrument] + [PAD] to set from the instrument list. Also with instrument already selected, Turn (Jog) to change it. 1. The default mode is for Tracker to play patterns and the currently Hold & release [Instrument] will set the step to the prior selection.
  • Page 36 D6 03 V 50 ---- FX2 Selected, Pad 3 which represents effect #3 - Volume = 50. original value. Quick Tap Dedicated Parameter Button to lock the selection e.g. [Instrument] Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 37 This speeds up the workflow and helps in creating interesting sequences. 3. Select a new pattern, Press [Pattern] + [Up] or [Down] 4. Hold [Pattern] + [Shift] + [Copy/Paste] to paste into the current pattern. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 38 [Instrument], [FX1] or [FX2]. The parameter will be highlighted solid red. 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 39 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 screen. ▌ CREATING A NOTE FILL To access Fill:- 1.
  • Page 40 ---- ---- ---- ---- P 50 Fill Fx 1 Note Random FX Constant No Note None From-To Random No FX Volume Random Panning Each Micro Tun Where? Fx Type Fill Type From Cancel Fill Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 41 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 melody. Tracker uses ‘events’ and the step length to Where? calculate the steps and intervals.
  • Page 42 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 43 Cancel Fill When any of the two FX are selected the Tracker effect list is presented as ‘Fx Type’. The selected effect character is shown under the name. It is also possible with From-To or Random ‘Fill Type’ to populate the range of steps with variations for the FX value setting.
  • Page 44 Velocity: Record velocity at a fixed value with pads. 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 45 Green, none recording mode will only play the note and instrument. Pads Scale - Default = Chromatic Found in Config > Pads Scale A full list of available scales is shown in the description for the fill utility. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 46 Polyphony & Chords Special Note Commands Each track in Tracker can handle one voice which can play multiple notes, Three special note commands can be applied instead of the actual note but not simultaneously. This can be a limitation when creating chords which value.
  • Page 47 -- --- ---- ---- -- --- ---- ---- -- --- ---- ---- -- --- ---- ---- -- --- ---- ---- -- --- ---- ---- -- --- ---- ---- -- --- ---- ---- Render Invert Duplicate Expand Shrink Copy Paste More Selection Pattern Pattern Pattern Pattern Pattern Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 48 This is an aid to using the FX. Pads are used to populate an FX step event. Also it is possible to use (Jog) & [Up], [Down], [Left], [Right] Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 49 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 50 NOTES Instruments In the language of Tracker, an instrument is the an instrument. Working with instruments clearly part of a step that generates sound and is has a cross over between the practical, process essentially based on an audio sample.

  • Page 51: Note Instrument Fx1 Fx2 Pattern Button When Working In The Pattern

    NOTES NOTES An audio instrument is the primary sound source in Tracker and is based on A series of instrument parameters are accessible for controlling, shaping an audio sample. The instrument can be a raw sample of configured into a and modulating the sound.
  • Page 52 Resonance boosts the audio at the selected frequency. Band width (Q) is not adjustable in the Tracker band-pass filter. Frequency Band 1 Semitone Steps (Half steps)
  • Page 53 Instrument 10. To exit the instrument parameters, select another page e.g. [Pattern]. Delay Reverb Delay Mix & Pan Reverb Send Send Filter Overdrive Bit-depth Sample Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 54 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 uses 3/8 step 16 Bit audio which is CD standard, but can be reduced to 1/3 step give a more LoFi sound effect.
  • Page 55 Try assigned based on the number or intervals of steps. Despite Tracker having combining and experimenting with automation. a de-clicking audio algorithm, some settings may still cause audio clicks due to the LFO cycle with respect the samples zero crossing points.
  • Page 56 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 uses an ADSR envelope Speed 2...
  • Page 57 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 ‘OFF’ special note command. This is the time period where the sound dissipates from Loop Pingpong Loop Sample playback.
  • Page 58 Does not affect playback. Zoom Zoom Variable are not automatically analysed in Tracker and therefore not normally known reference point is based on the previously adjusted unless manually noted when sampling and recording the original audio. parameter i.e. Start.
  • Page 59 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 60 Initiates slicing of the sample into the equal spaced Edit Equal Slice Shift + 2nd Pads select and play each slice individually. Ideal for recording beats. slices, set by ‘number’. Prompt to confirm. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 61 5. Press [Adjust], 2 Screen Button. Zoom may help create precise edits. • Any new slice added automatically becomes the currently selected slice. 6. Turn (Jog) or Press [Up] or [Down] to adjust the slice start position. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 62 The wavetable play mode is a simplified application of wavetable synthesis Standard Tracker 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 63 ▌ USING WT SMOOTHER TO OPTIMISE SAMPLES Tracker’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 64 Position Modulating grain position is at the heart of the Tracker’s implementation of granular synthesis where an LFO or envelope can be used. The position can be set manually within its parameters as can length with a range up to 1000ms.
  • Page 65 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 operates with a single grain. Sample...
  • Page 66 Files can be copied (Do not Cut / Paste or Delete) between SD Cards. easy task. A few tips will help manage a library of instruments. Tracker 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 67 These can be applied step by step giving intimate control over each step and when built together with other steps offers a very creative option in Tracker. These are very powerful and without doubt are worth the time and learning investment to get to know the range and application of effects available.

  • Page 68: Sets The Volume Of An C5 40

    E Bit Depth U Tuning When adjusting the value with the jog control for an FX slot with an instrument loaded to the step, the audio applied through the effect will be automatically previewed. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 69 ---- !OFF ---- ---- 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 70 V 80 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 71 Glide Time ~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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 72 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 73 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...

  • Page 74: R Roll

    ---- ---- RV - Increase Volume Rn - Decrease Note* D6 03 ---- Rn 1 RN - Increase Note* RR - Random Note* --- -- ---- ---- * Note Pitch --- -- ---- ---- Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...

  • Page 75: A - Arp

    AR would play C - D# - G in Random order provides scale details for the Arp. Tracker gives a series of scales in the MIDI Chord description. While these are useful examples A - Arp 0 - MIDI Chord they do not fully cover all chords.

  • Page 76: I - Random Instrument

    +/- 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 77 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 78 (Default) 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 79 Cycle reset with a 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 80 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 81 Speed Default 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 82 Low Pass 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 83 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 84 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 85 ---- ---- --- -- ---- ---- 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 86 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 87 ---- ---- FX1 or FX2 + Value a 24 CC Value to send Mod Wheel. Tracker 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 88 NOTES Audio Audio is the central element in Tracker and at editing features helps to prepare audio for use in the heart of almost everything. The end to end instruments and patterns and for further process of Sampling - Editing - Performing integration with other features such as the play carries many sub topics that involve audio.
  • Page 89 Audio is controlled in the Master pages of which 3 are available. This is where the Tracker mixer is found to control the audio levels and also the The Master page controls the track volume levels. Each of the 8 tracks is master effects.
  • Page 90 In the master section mute is applied when the button is released after being pressed.This is different to muting in Tracker is supplied with a 3.5mm Stereo Male Jack to 2 x 6.3mm Mono Female Socket adapter the Pattern section where mutes are applied immediately that the button is pressed.
  • Page 91 NOTES The sample recorder page can select sampling input, but the general input Tracker 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. The physical inputs are located on the rear operates in stereo.
  • Page 92 NOTES Mic Input Tracker has a built in FM Radio. This can be used for sampling and capturing various static or radio signals. Be aware of copyright when The microphone input is not represented in the mixer as it is just used for...
  • Page 93 Creativity often is inspired by limitations. While SD Card size is large and selected and signals in the range of the current location. can hold a lot of high quality samples, Internal memory in Tracker is at a premium. The balance between quality and file size is an important one.
  • Page 94 8.7 Sampling NOTES NOTES Sampling in Tracker takes place in the ‘Sample Recorder’ page. This is the Everyone will develop a personal workflow for sampling and the process first step in the process and is followed by editing the audio captured.
  • Page 95 The sampler will capture the audio into the 3. Press [Record], 8 Screen button or [Rec] to start sampling. It may be Tracker memory buffer and display the useful to play the device to record before starting to record or after recording time. Recording will automatically stop if the memory is full at ~45 Secs.
  • Page 96 Folder for selected partial pattern renders 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...

  • Page 97: Press [Pad]

    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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 98 ‘delay.wav’, ‘reverb.wav’ and ‘master.wav’. Each time the pattern is track 5.wav exported a new folder is created. The folder naming convention is:- track 6.wav Project name_Song_S for Stems + Sequential number track 7.wav track 8.wav Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 99 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 discard unwanted audio. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 100 Quick and easy application of a fade out to the audio sample or a selected part. This Fade Out operates at a fixed setting across the start / end selected part of the sample. Press [Apply], 8 Screen Button, to confirm and rendering the effect. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 101 Feedback 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 102 3 of 3 to polish and finish off a track, gluing tracks together, developing a combined tonal balance, managing loudness and mastering a final release. In the context of Tracker sample editing, the process operates at an EQ Function Description individual sample level.
  • Page 103 MIDS threshold. Higher ratios are more aggressive. The speed and reaction of the compressor is also governed by an envelope, in Tracker this is an Low Mids can be overloaded with frequencies as many instruments cover this range and muddiness is a common outcome. Honkyness can creep in around 500-1K and tinniness 1- Attack and Release envelope.
  • Page 104 While compression is normally seen as a master effect on many devices Tracker’s limiter has the basic features of threshold which is where limiting and in DAW’s, Tracker does not have a compressor in the master chain and will kick in and also an attack / release envelope which shapes the relies on the master limiter.
  • Page 105 Fades can be applied at any part of a sample that the start and end marker is covering eg 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 106 A also be rendered out as the final version too. As song is the highest level of structure in Tracker a reminder, as well as having the features for and allows the combination of patterns to play building song arrangements, song mode is also a full ‘song’...
  • Page 107 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 Slot Row 16 Steps 4 Bars per ‘block’ Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 108 Columns represent each of Each slot row hosts a pattern Pattern number assigned Patterns cannot be named in Tracker and are managed in the pattern page the tracks in a pattern and plays top to bottom to the song slot as Pattern 1, Pattern 2 etc, loaded into the song utility as 1,2 etc and stored on the SD Card as pattern_01.mtp, pattern_02.mtp etc.
  • Page 109 Tracks can be re-ordered by copy / paste in Song Mode. This in turn will edit the actual pattern and as such also be reflected in the pattern view. When pressing [Play] in Song mode, switching to pattern mode will show each pattern as it is being played in the song structure. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 110 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 111 Song [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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 112 Screen button. The clip will play once fully or press [Stop], 1 Screen button, to stop playback. The ‘Random’ symbol in the header of a page will demonstrate that tracks from various patterns can be selected for mixing in performance mode. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 113 NOTES Master Effects A number of effects are available in Tracker. mixer page and global mixer functions are Some can be set in the FX1 and FX2 slots and available by pressing the [Master] button. Sub some used in Performance Mode. Also the...
  • Page 114 NOTES Tracker has 8 voices which would represent each of the tracks playback. The 6 master effects are located in the master section of Tracker. This is The common processing of the voices comes together at the master stage accessible with the [Master] dedicated button which opens to 3 mixer / where the voices are mixed and the master effects applied.
  • Page 115 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 116 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 117 Accessed via the Master page 1/3 and selected from the screen buttons. last effect in a chain. Insert effects in Tracker route the entire, main audio The behaviour of the limiter as extreme or subtle can be set in the ‘Config’...
  • Page 118 The space option, ranges 0-8 and is a the given frequency. Tracker’s EQ is the last master effect in the chain and widener enhancing the stereo image. Bass boost has a 0-100% range with has 5 fixed frequency bands.
  • Page 119 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 120 Tracker also has a set of work together with MIDI and should be comprehensive MIDI features. MIDI is the considered at the outset. MIDI in Tracker can be protocol which allows devices to communicate set up through the USB connection or the MIDI...
  • Page 121 To clarify some of the terminology and technology around MIDI with respect A pre-requisite to working with MIDI is to ensure that the configuration to Tracker a summary of key definitions is provided. Tracker uses a TRS to settings in the [Config] menu are applied for the desired MIDI gear setup.
  • Page 122 Tracker as will other devices. the MIDI Network. Devices should be configured to receive clock and transport and the MIDI Channel which Tracker communicates, for example, Channel 1. CC 40 In Medusa represents the Filter Cutoff frequency in this example each step in Tracker will set the filter cutoff.
  • Page 123 An external device, keyboard or drum pads can be connected to control synths and plug-ins to be controlled by Tracker. Tracker will need a hub or will need to be powered Tracker by MIDI either by USB or via the 5 Pin MIDI dongle. Notes can be by the PC / Mac as the USB connection is the source of power for Tracker.
  • Page 124 NOTES The Instrument parameters will reflect the MIDI output options available Tracker has a series of MIDI Instruments that can be assigned to steps in a when selecting a step with a MIDI instrument configured. The Note is set in pattern.
  • Page 125 C5 M02 V 23 velocity value of 23. The FX value in Tracker 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 126 11. In this example, CC Number 74 will transmit a CC value of 50 over MIDI High Definition Velocity All sound off Channel 1 when the selected step is triggered. Reset all Local On / Off All notes off Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 127 Config > MIDI menu along with the CC In channel for standard messages which trigger a change to the current ‘program’ of an the MIDI channel. The MIDI CC Mapping within Tracker has a set of pre- external device by switching presets or configurations. This of course will defined destinations for CC messages.
  • Page 128 The MIDI synthesizer mode is a feature that allows integration when While integration with Polyend Play is a build in feature for mapping Play’s controlling Tracker from an external MIDI device and by controlling up to 8 controls, other MIDI controllers can also be used in Synthesiser Mode.
  • Page 129 Filter Type Cutoff Sustain Cutoff Cutoff Release 3. To get the reference of CC configurations set up as default for Tracker, Press [Instrument Parameters], select Screen Buttons [More], then Resonance Cutoff Amount [Instrument Synthesizer]. The CC’s are displayed in the left window as a...
  • Page 130 NOTES Performance Mode Performance mode is a special Tracker feature when playing patterns or a complete song. which creates an environment aimed at live Muting can also be managed for tracks in and real-time performances. Ideal when perform mode. Track patterns can be remixed...
  • Page 131 Selected effects are indicated green or red (if editing) on the tracker screen and the respective pad is lit. 7. The effect will apply an offset to the current value of the parameter Performance FX affected.
  • Page 132 Track 5 Track 8 Red = Effect will be applied Unlit = Effect not applied Black Text = Muted White Text = Unmuted Track 6 Unlit = Effect not applied Black Text = Muted Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 133 Track 7 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 134 Tracker has 21 performance effects that can be selected and loaded into Tracker can remix tracks on the fly. There are two techniques worth noting each of the 12 effect slots. The same effect can be applied to multiple slots.
  • Page 135 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 Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 136 The (Jog) wheel can be used instead of the arrow keys. This will initiate a pattern change immediately. • Press [Pattern], 1 Screen button + [PAD], for the new pattern. This will initiate a pattern change immediately. Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 137 Registration is performed at be useful around housekeeping and good at Polyend.com. This section not only covers disciplines in working with Tracker. But there system wide features but also is a catch all for are also some tips that may be helpful beyond topics not covered elsewhere.
  • Page 138 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 must be registered on the Polyend website.
  • Page 139 Rear Panel The reset option is useful if any lock ups or freezing occurs on Tracker. 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 140 The ability to capture screen images from the currently displayed page is a configuration setting. This may be useful when working in different built in feature of Tracker. environments and essentially is based on personal taste. ▌ SCREEN GRAB OF CURRENT IMAGE ▌...
  • Page 141 SD Card /Games folder. • Tracker uses the SD card in real time and will not function without the 3. Scroll and navigate the list using the screen buttons, [Up] or [Down] SD card being installed. A ‘bad’ folder / file structure on the SD card buttons or Turn (Jog).
  • Page 142 The classic trackers typically used hexadecimal number format. This can be a little daunting if unfamiliar and especially in the more modern age and 1. This is recommended as a first task when first operating Tracker to have therefore decimal number is used as default. However, maybe for the more the original structure saved.
  • Page 143 Signal to Noise Ratio: 90 dB. • Micro SD to USB-A dongle adapter. • Microphone Input: • Warranty & Safety and Polyend Play Essential information • Microphone Input Impedance: 2.9 kOhm Impedance brochures • input level: 8.2 dBu peak. Audio Output •...
  • Page 144 NOTES Index Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 145 Fade In 209 Instrument Automation 107 Master Pages 176 Chords 90 Fade Out 209 Instrument Button 8 Metronome 36,  58 Chorus 202 File 8 Instrument list 39 Mic Input 182 Compressor 203 Fill 75–77,  80,  82,  85 Instrument Parameter 8,  92,  100–102 Micro SD Card 7 Config 8,  36,  42 Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 146 Sample Formats 185 Timestretch note 208 Project 10,  29–30,  34,  36 Sample Loader 8 Track Mixer 177 Off 137,  139,  141 Project Management 31 Sample Playback 8,  113 Tracker Legacy Files 277,  279 Overdrive 162,  202 Sample Recorder 8 Tracks 12,  57,  61 Quantize 86 Sampling 187 Transient Slicing 120 Page Map 26 Quick Reference Commands 16–17 Save 31–32...
  • Page 147 Index Index Volume 138,  153,  157 Wavetable 122,  130 Workflow 15 WT Smoother 125,  207 Polyend Tracker Manual Polyend Tracker Manual...
  • Page 148 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. September 2023 - Tracker OS 1.7.0 Manual Produced in the United Kingdom www.synthdawg.com...
  • Page 149 Polyend Tracker Manual...

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