Page 1 Polyend Play Manual An Official Reference for The Polyend Play The Play Notebook : Reference & Guide...
Page 2 Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Contents Overview Architecture Projects & Tracks Parameter Summary Samples Sequencing Patterns Arrangements & Variations Perform Mode Effects MIDI System Index Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 4 Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 5: Overview
Play is not a sampler nor a Three steps get things started and form the synthesizer but uses techniques from both to foundation of the workflow;...
Page 6 [Pad] Each of the 160 pad buttons will be simply represented by [Pad]. These functions will depend on the mode and function selected within Play. [Dynamic Screen Key] The 5 dynamic screen buttons located underneath and to the left of the display screen will be identified using italic text.
Page 7 Sample End Bit Depth Randomize Type Reset Paste Track Length Filter Cutoff Sample Attack Repeat Type Move View Shift Play Mode Resonance Sample Decay Repeat Grid Micromove Master FX 207 mm Mute Solo Variation Select Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 8 Select Randomize & Randomize Type Percentage randomization and type determines which step parameters are affected. Track Length & Play Mode Filter Cutoff & Resonance Track length in steps between 1-64. Selects one Adjusts the DJ style filter cutoff or resonance of 35 play modes Sample Attack &...
Page 9 Intelligent / smart power banks or PC / Mac power may have features that interfere with the continuous supply required by Play. USC - C to USB - B cable supplied. USB - C to USB - C is usable on later Play models.
Page 10 Perform Physical screen buttons represent the command displayed on the screen directly above or to the right. The Play / Stop tab will show the playback progress bar when playing. The top part of the screen will display the value setting of the primary parameter selected.
Page 11 Press (Screen) to select and to navigate the global settings menu. • The (Screen) knob will change any selected parameter value in the same way as the parameter knob. It will also navigate within the global settings menus. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 12 Current character is lit orange. Text can be typed in to enter. < Space The following Play buttons also operate in the naming editor when the naming screen is presented:- • The characters can also be selected by turning (Screen).
Page 13 General pattern playback us activated using the orange [Play] button. The tracks and patterns to play are determined by what is currently selected and active. Playback duration is indicated in a bar on the dynamic Play/ Stop Button. Note that there are more advanced play options covered later in this book.
Page 14 1. Some activities can be backtracked and undone or reset and redone. The Undo / Redo function can apply these in various scenarios. This is useful to correct mistakes or allow things to be tried and restored. Play has 16 undo / redo layers.
Page 15 Turn (Knob) for the parameter to adjust and preview. Knob preview behaviour can be changed in the main menu settings. 2. To preview a note step. Press and Hold (Screen) knob + hold [Pad] for the step with a note to preview. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 16 Overview 1.9 Example Workflow. The workflow adopted with Play will of course develop to fit your personal approach. To get started a typical journey is described below which covers the audio tracks but similar process for MIDI. PROCESS ACTION COMMENTS Project Create &...
Page 17 Screen Play button will play and loop the current pattern Sequence Play Pattern Chain Hold [Shift] + Press [Play] Screen Play button will play and loop the chain of patterns Sequence Stop Playback Press [Stop] Screen Play button while playing, will stop playback Selects between sequencer and pattern modes.
Page 18 Selects live recording mode. Notes played by MIDI, View Sequence Live Recording Press Live Rec [Screen] Button Keyboard and parameter changes are recorded. Play the sequence to start recording to the pattern. Switches the last four column from function mode to view Sequence...
Page 19 When a chain is playing in pattern view, pressing a pad cues Pattern Cue Pattern Press [Pad] it ready to play next, after completion of current pattern. When a chain is playing in pattern view, pressing pattern / Pattern Play Pattern Press [Shift] + [Pad] shift + pad will play immediately.
Page 20 NOTES Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 21: Architecture
Developing a fundamental workflow and efficient bringing this summary upfront in this guide. process will help get the most out of Play’s wide Getting a solid understanding and awareness feature set. of the Play’s structure will help enormously in getting to grips later with the rest of the device.
Page 22 While you may think this should be hidden at the back of this book, understanding the terminology associated with these topics and especially with Play will help unlock it’s power and performance. It makes sense to become familiar early with the essential terms to help embed into your workflow...
Page 23 / stop for the sequencer. SD Card: A storage device that is used in Play for holding data, samples, project etc. Play is supplied with a 16GB Micro SD Card and USB adapter.
Page 24 Samples Sample Packs Workspace A correctly formatted SD Card must be installed to Projects Firmware Artist Samples operate Play fully. Card default folder shown. Play Project Projects are accessible from the SD Card. Project Loaded Project Sample Pool Audio Sample Engine...
Page 25 2.3 SD Card Structure. NOTES The Micro SD Card is an integral part of Play and must be inserted to operate correctly. An alert message is displayed if Play is powered up without an SD Card installed. It is important that the correct format is applied to the Micro SD Card.
Page 26 Architecture 2.4 Settings Menu Map NOTES As a quick guide to the settings and menu hierarchy in Play the following diagram illustrates the main pages. Master Volume Note Sample Reverb Send Chance Fill Patterns Limiter Microtune Folder Delay Send Action...
Page 27 Sets the source for the MIDI fill notes for beats and MIDI Settings Fill Config MIDI channels for beat and melody fills Displays version and initiates a firmware update from a Settings Firmware System selected update file Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 28 NOTES Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 29: Projects & Tracks
MIDI tracks. serve an important purpose in the Play workflow. Samples are stored on the Micro SD Card but can be also are held in the Play on board sample pool where samples effectively Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 30 A project must be open when working in Play. The previously selected project will be opened automatically on start up. Other projects however can be opened or created. Ensure the SD Card is installed into Play. ▌ OPENING AN EXISTING PROJECT 1.
Page 31 & Press (Screen) to choose and select ‘Load Sample Pack’, 4) Turn & Press (Screen) to choose and select the sample pack to load. Once loaded, samples are available and can be assigned with the (Sample) Knob. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 32 8. The project is saved and will be indicated in orange text in the browser. Play also automatically saves the currently active project every time a pattern is stopped by pressing the dynamic screen button, [Stop].
Page 33 Dim Blue. Selected, empty step. Hold [Shift] + [Pad]. Orange. Playhead on currently active step for a track. [Play]. Red. Playhead on currently active step - Live Rec Mode. [Play]. Pink. Root Note Indicator - Piano Roll View Mode. Hold [View].
Page 34 Playback Direction, Default is Forward - Press [Play] Tracks will play through the defined step length by default, forwards. Playback will then loop back to play from the start to end. Tracks play on loop. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 35 ~ tilde symbol is presented. Any parameter adjustments will change all values relatively from Play Mode the original value, e.g. +1, +2, while the tracks are selected. Forward Live Rec Play Perform Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 36 3. The brightly lit green pad is the currently selected page. The selected page allows step editing on the 16 pad columns left to right. 4. The dimly lit green pad is an active page of steps that will play. These are not currently selected for editing but will play in sequence.
Page 37 Project & Tracks NOTES Play also has a dedicated track length control parameter which operates on any selected tracks. This will allows a finer adjustment of track length even down to single step resolution. ▌ FINE ADJUSTMENTS OF TRACK LENGTH 1.
Page 38 Variations. Quick copy is performed by keep holding the source [Pad] for about half a second + Press [Pad] for any destination pads. Pads will flash blue twice when copied to the clipboard and when pasted. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 39 Tracks are represented by rows. Multiple tracks can be selected. Tapping [Solo] toggles solo on or off. • Only soloed tracks are audible. The solo pad is lit bright green. Any other, un-soloed track is muted. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 40 Master Volume is a global setting that controls the output audio level of Play. The Master Volume is independent of any track or project and controls the audio heard on the ‘out’ connector located on the rear of Play. Take care when using headphones as the output can be initially loud.
Page 41 [Shift] + [Master FX]. The presets also include options to use a sidechain on the limiter. A sidechain uses an alternative audio signal to trigger the limiter. The threshold is the only adjustable parameter in Play and is controlled with the limiter parameter knob.
Page 42 Examples and Notes: Global Tempo 120 BPM, Track 1 Tempo multiplier 2/1. Track 1 will play twice as fast as other tracks i.e. 240 BPM. Track 1 will play a 16 step pattern twice for every 16 step cycle as other tracks.
Page 43 Turn (Tempo) to assign a multiplier or divider value to the track. The (Screen) encoder will also change the speed when tempo is selected and in view on the screen. 4. Any track speed settings will use the global tempo as it’s reference. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 44 The default is 50% i.e. no swing applied. • 25% will push steps forward / early. • 75% will pull steps delay / late. • The playhead cursor will indicate the swing applied in its visual behaviour. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 45 3.12 Play Mode NOTES Normal playback of a pattern including all tracks is to play steps forwards in sequence, left to right. Play modes allow the playback step sequence to be changed for audio and MIDI tracks. This gives the ability to remix and shuffle arrangements.
Page 46 Play Mode Description Default play mode. Starting at step 1, plays through to the last step. Plays all Forward steps to the end, then restarts from step 1 and continues to loop play. Starting at the last step, plays through to the first step. Plays all steps in Reverse reverse, end to start, then restarts from the end and continues to loop play.
Page 47 1, 2 & 5 only. Plays across max 16 steps. Playback shuffles back and forth across steps 1, Pixelizer 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9 & 16 only and 13 on the last step. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 48 3.13 Exporting Tracks NOTES A number of export options exist in Play that allows bouncing of audio files as an output to the SD Card. The Export option is found in the main menu under the ‘File’ functions. Muted tracks are exported as silent.
Page 49 SD Card and if one doesn’t exist an ‘Export’ folder is created. Each export will create an unique export folder, named by the project name, pattern sequence number(s) and an export sequence number. Files are names as Track1, Track 2 etc. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 50 NOTES Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 51: Parameter Summary
Parameter Summary Play has 15 touch sensitive, endless rotary as applying parameters to MIDI notes. These of knobs. Touching the knob selects the primary course are not labelled as MIDI parameters on parameter and turning the knob adjust the the hardware but do reflect the parameter in the parameter value.
Page 52 Folder Secondary Sample folder from where to choose a sample / PC Sample Start Primary Start of sample play with respect to length / Chord Sample End Secondary End position of sample play with respect to length Sample Attack Primary...
Page 53 The Limiter option is still accessible accessible when in MIDI mode. This when in MIDI mode. This parameter parameter knob is identical both in knob is identical both in Audio and Audio and MIDI Mode. MIDI Mode. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 54 Track speed options; Pause, 1/16, 1/8, Values <50% apply a swing for notes 1/6, 1/4, 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 1/1 is default, to play early and >50% plays late. 3/2, 2/1, 3/1, 4/1, 6/1, 8/1. Track speed takes reference from global tempo.
Page 55 Range / Options Range / Options The range of steps per track is 1-64. Up to 35 play modes can be selected Each page presents 16 steps. Hold for both audio and MIDI tracks. [Shift] to view available pages.
Page 56 [Shift] + Turn (Note). Other Information Other Information Play assumes the note ‘C4’ as the Play assumes the note ‘C4’ as the default for the sample and default for the sample and adjustments would therefore adjustments would therefore reference this expected default.
Page 57 The Knob is reassigned when in MIDI MIDI Mode. Volume switches to Mode. Panning switches to MIDI Note MIDI Note Velocity over a 0-127 Length applied with respect to step range and default at 100. length. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 58 MIDI Mode. The CC assignments have a default set but these can be have a default set but these can be reassigned in the main menu. Filter reassigned in the main menu. Filter default is CC#74. default is CC#71. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 59 Sample knob when in MIDI changes to control PC Messaging in mode. The channel is also assigned MIDI Mode. Program Change with the specific Jack or USB Port. messages change the preset or bank on a destination device. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 60 Other Information The sample start and end are useful in Set an end point before the start point chopping sample slices across pads on to play samples in reverse. the sequencer grid. MIDI Mode MIDI Mode The Sample Start knob switches to Not Used in MIDI Mode.
Page 61 MIDI Mode. The CC assignments have a default set but these can be have a default set but these can be reassigned in the main menu. Filter reassigned in the main menu. Filter default is CC#22. default is CC#75. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 62 MIDI Mode. The CC assignments have a default set but these can be have a default set but these can be reassigned in the main menu. Filter reassigned in the main menu. Filter default is CC#17. default is CC#19. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 63 MIDI Mode. The CC assignments have a default set but these can be have a default set but these can be reassigned in the main menu. Filter reassigned in the main menu. Filter default is CC#12. default is CC#13. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 64 MIDI mode. This parameter knob is similar both in parameter knob is identical both Audio and MIDI Modes but there may Audio and MIDI Modes but there may be some contextual difference. be some contextual difference. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 65 90-10% Chance - % probability event normal. Rnd X - where ‘X’ is the is executed. parameter to randomize. Humanize - Group with last. Play X / Skip Y, Skip randomize the micromove. X / Play Y. Other Information Other Information Operates on audio and MIDI steps.
Page 66 MIDI mode. This parameter knob is similar both in parameter knob is identical both Audio and MIDI Modes but there may Audio and MIDI Modes but there may be some contextual difference. be some contextual difference. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 67 MIDI mode. This knob is similar both in Audio and parameter knob is similar both in MIDI Modes but there may be some Audio and MIDI Modes but there may contextual difference. be some contextual difference. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 68 NOTES Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 69: Samples
Samples Samples are at the heart of Play’s audio sound management and maximises the efficiency of engine and form the core of the instrument on Play when working with multiple projects. To an audio track. Play operates with 8 voices to...
Page 70 Mute Solo Variation Select Samples can be placed from the sample pool and onto any track step in a pattern. Some tools such as Fill will automate placement intelligently based on a sample pack format. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 71 Press (Screen) when highlighting an audio sample file to audition the sample sound. Sample Packs /Acoustic Piano Pack /Acoustic Plucked Pack /Chillhop Pack /Dark Techno Pack /Dirty Click Pack /Drum and Bass Pack Memory 99% Back Play Load Pack Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 72 This may be empty unless manually pre-populated. Turn (Screen) to navigate and Press [Back] if required. 7. A set of artist samples are also provided on the Polyend supplied SD Card. This can be accessed by backing up a level from the SD Card ‘Samples’...
Page 73 4. Highlight the ‘Samples’ option and press (Screen) to select. 5. Highlight the ‘View Sample Pool’ option and press (Screen) to select. 6. The list of sample pack folders will be displayed, named in the Play convention style. Press (Screen) and [Back] to navigate within the folder structures.
Page 74 Plucks Oneshots Hats Hats Snare <Add New Folder> <Add New Folder> Hats Memory 99% Memory 4% Back Play Rename <Add New Folder> Back Play Rename Memory 4% Back Play Rename Memory reset once samples are removed Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 75 5. Highlight the ‘View Sample Pool’ option and press (Screen) to select. This deletion process cannot be applied to SD Card files or folders. 6. The list of sample pack folders will be displayed, named in the Play convention style. Press (Screen) and [Back] to navigate within the folder structures.
Page 76 4. Highlight the ‘Samples’ option and press (Screen) to select. 5. Highlight the ‘View Sample Pool’ option and press (Screen) to select. 6. The list of sample pack folders will be displayed, named in the Play convention style. Press (Screen) and [Back] to navigate within the folder structures.
Page 77 Samples 5.2 Sample Format NOTES Play will accept WAV samples in a variety of formats. The internal audio engine will operate with uncompressed 16bit mono PCM Files at various sample rates. The conversion will be performed automatically to match the internal audio engine.
Page 78 User samples of course can also be used and have a more arbitrary format. In order for Play to recognise and integrate a sample pack fully it must fulfil a precise set of criteria. This will be taken into account with the official factory packs and extensions, but should also be considered when creating compatible custom sample packs.
Page 79 NOTES Sample packs are built with a specific format and structure to maximise the benefits of Play’s features. As an example of the components and structure the Dirty Click Pack from the factory library is illustrated. Samples are copied to the sample...
Page 80 5.5 Sample Selection Overview NOTES Play workflow for using samples starts with a ‘pick and place’ process. The first step is therefore to pick a sample to be placed onto the grid in order to create patterns. The sample has a number of parameters that can be edited.
Page 81 5.6 Sample Related Parameters NOTES A number of the primary and secondary parameters available in Play are directly related to the selected sample. These can be adjusted as part of the ‘work step’ and then applied to steps when creating patterns.
Page 82 NOTES Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 83: Sequencing Patterns
The ‘Pick & Place’ principles of Play encourage play together in parallel. Think of a Pattern as a a quick and easy selection of sample and bite size element of a full song. Patterns can be...
Page 84 8 x 16 grid pads each column represents a step and rows represent tracks. Patterns will be stored on the SD Card under the project folder. Projects MyProj Demo Projects globalSettings Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 85 Edit and add steps, build melodies and Chain and organise up to 128 patterns beats. Sequence a single pattern across across the grid. Arrange and play 8 tracks and up to 64 available steps. chained loops or individual patterns. Master Volume...
Page 86 Blue. Selected, note event step. Hold [Shift] + [Pad]. Dim Blue. Selected, empty step. Hold [Shift] + [Pad]. Orange. Playhead on currently active step for a track. [Play]. Red. Playhead on currently active step - Live Rec Mode. [Play]. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 87 [Patterns] will toggle to the sequencer mode. 2. To select a pattern, Press [Pad] for the pattern to edit or play. Pads are laid out across the 8 x 16 grid with a total of 128 pattern slots available.
Page 88 6.5 Pick & Place to Create A Pattern NOTES The first step in sequencing a pattern in Play is to pick a sample and place it on the sequencer grid. This will populate steps in order to build a melody or a beat.
Page 89 [64]. A maximum of 64 steps is available. • Tapping an existing active note step will delete it from the grid. 5. Press [Play] to play the current pattern. Notes can be placed while the pattern is playing. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 90 Remove Quickly tap a [Pad] on an active step to remove it from the pattern. When creating a work step, any parameter adjustments made when the sequencer playback is stopped will be auditioned real-time Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 91 (2) Parameter does not automatically change as a global setting across all steps. With all 8 tracks selected by pressing [Select], then all active step parameters can be edited relative to their original value. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 92 +/- as a offset from each individual step setting for the parameter. 8. To reset a selected parameter to its default, Double Tap [Screen] upper or lower left screen button for the parameter to reset. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 93 The Move and Micromove parameter can relocate selected steps. Selections can be deleted by pressing [Shift] + [Fill] for the delete command. The undo command, [Shift] + [Undo] can restore deleted steps. The selection of steps is retained but the content deleted. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 94 6. To remove all selections, Tap [Shift]. Any selection, not actual note step, is removed. Use [Shift] + [Fill] to Delete a note step if required. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 95 Variations. Quick copy is performed by keep holding the source [Pad] for about half a second + Press [Pad] for any destination pads. Pads will flash blue twice when copied to the clipboard and when pasted. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 96 Screen button shows playback progress bar. To Add Notes Press [View] to select the view controller. The right side 4 columns convert to an onboard MIDI keyboard. Play notes in. Alternatively use and external MIDI controller to play notes in. View...
Page 97 16 steps, the playhead will follow / scroll to the next steps in the next page which may not be visible. 4. To record notes use either an external MIDI controller connected to Play or use the internal ‘View’ keyboard. Note that tapping a grid pad will exit the track selection.
Page 98 Overdub Recording Settings Overwrites existing notes by any recorded new notes. Existing notes are replaced by any new note recorded onto the step and empty steps recorded with the note. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 99 The right side 4 columns convert to an onboard MIDI keyboard to play notes in. Scale setting influences the view mode keyboard. To Add Notes Use the view pads to play and record notes in live mode. Green pads change the octave range for the keyboard. C3-B4 C5-B6...
Page 100 The octave range row pads are coloured green in audio mode and violet in MIDI mode. The option to change from piano notes view to grid notes view is possible from within the main menu settings options. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 101 • Select [Live Rec] mode and Press [Play]. • Play the view mode keyboard. This will assign the notes being played into the sequence steps in real-time. • Patterns can be edited later, for example in step sequencing mode.
Page 102 MIDI sequencers can be created using the piano roll. The pads are laid out in note rows with the root note indicated by the pink pad rows. The notes applied are influenced by Play’s scale setting. Select View Mode Hold [View] greater than 1 sec to select the Piano roll.
Page 103 4. Notes and chords can be programmed into the grid. Selected notes will illuminate white on the selected pads. • Tap [Shift] quickly to deselect / select the active steps • MIDI note length is reflected in the piano roll grid. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 104 6.11 Scales NOTES Play has a number of scales that can be set within the main menu. The default scale setting is Chromatic and Root note C. These can be changed from a selection of options and will influence the view mode keyboard as well as existing sequences and MIDI output.
Page 105 The view mode keyboard will still display as chromatic style but only scale notes are available, unavailable note keys quantized up. • Scale filter affects view mode as well as other sequence functions. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 106 The type of fill algorithm applied. What is the relationship with Sample Packs? The sample pack format used is designed to integrate into Play and especially to be used by the Fill tool. This allows Fill to populate tracks with appropriate sounds.
Page 107 Experiment and Iterate Try experimenting with multiple triggers of the fill command. Try different algorithms and even mix algorithms across different tracks. Iterate adjustments and fills to create and revise patterns to find an acceptable position. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 108 8. Each track can then be edited individually. For example, the sample can be changed per track while retaining the fill generated pattern steps. Also why not try using the other Randomize or Chance parameters to add variation to the fill generated tracks. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 109 Note that a variation of beat fill exists to allow tracks to be managed individually. Select Kick, Snare or HiHat as the Type and select only one track to populate steps based on the genre and samples based on the type. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 110 Selected tracks will cover each note in a generated chord. 4. Press [Fill] button. Initial selection of fill will select the mode. When subsequently pressing the [Fill] button within the fill mode, a fill will be initiated to populate steps on selected tracks. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 111 Jack Channel 1 HiHat Note From Template MIDI Channel Output for Synth Channel Jack Channel 1 Synth Fill tracks Back Play Perform Defaults are ‘From Template’ for beat fill notes and ‘Jack Channel 1’ for MIDI Out. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 112 7. Press [Fill] button again. The selected steps will be populated with the pattern based on genre preset and samples from the sample pool. 8. The programmed note samples can be changed individually to another sample by manually selecting it. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 113 7. Press [Fill] button again. The selected steps will be populated with the pattern based on genre preset and samples from the sample pool. 8. The programmed note samples can be changed individually to another sample by manually selecting it. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 114 7. Each track can then be edited individually. For example, the sample can be changed per track while retaining the fill generated pattern steps. Also why not try using the other Randomize or Chance parameters to add variation to the fill generated tracks. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 115 Populates steps based on one of 48 predefined Chords genre based patterns. Operates on 5 Tracks to Genre (various) and Bass create polyphonic chords and a bass line. Uses the ‘Bass’ and ‘Synth’ folder samples. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 116 Spiral 3 Happy Hour 1 New Quest 1 Sad Robot 1 Uprising 1 Happy Hour 2 New Quest 2 Sad Robot 2 Uprising 2 Happy Hour 3 New Quest 3 Sad Robot 3 Uprising 3 Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 117 Important considerations for creating beat fill and melody fill templates The instructions provided for creating fill templates must be followed exactly and in the correct sequence in order for the pattern to operate as a functional fill template when used in Play. Beat Fill Melody Fill...
Page 118 Perform Load Sample Folders. Samples can be created offline from Play i.e. on a PC or Mac. These can be assembled into the instrument folders on the SD Card and named as such. These folders must be loaded to the sample pool in a specific order.
Page 119 5. The patterns are saved in the SD Card, Projects / MyProj / Patterns folder. Use an external PC or Mac to copy the created pattern to the ‘BeatFill’ folder for use with fill. Do not change the project structure. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 120 5. The patterns are saved in the SD Card, Projects / MyProj / Patterns folder. Use an external PC or Mac to copy the created pattern to the ‘MelodyFill’ folder for use with fill. Do not change the project structure. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 121 MelodyFills folder depending on the context of the pattern. BeatHit.Pattern BeatFills HitnMiss.Pattern Pattern names should be changed to a more relevant title when copied to the BeatFills and MelodyFills folder. Retain the original ‘.pattern’ extension part of the name. Chillax.Pattern MelodyFills Ambs.Pattern Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 122 NOTES Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 123: Arrangements & Variations
Arrangements & Variations Patterns can be played individually using continuously changing patterns. Chance and [Play] but can also be chained to play in a Randomize are two such parameters. Patterns sequence using [Shift] + [Play]. Chaining can appear to operate on their own evolving...
Page 124 Solo Variation Select Pattern Mode - 8x16 Grid Pad Colours Orange. Currently active / loaded pattern. Dim Green. Empty Pattern. Blue. Available Patterns. Flash Orange / Blue. Pattern pending to play next when manually triggered. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 125 1. Press [Patterns] from sequencer mode to select pattern mode. If in pattern mode, pressing [Patterns] will toggle to sequencer mode. 2. Press [Pad] to select an existing pattern to edit or play or to create a new pattern from an empty slot. Pads represent patterns and are laid out across the 8 x 16 grid with a total of 128 pattern slots available.
Page 126 Press [Play] to stop playback. When a sequence is playing, other sequences or patterns can be manually triggered by pressing the [Pad]. This will switch between patterns on the fly. Patterns cued to play next will flash its pad orange and light blue.
Page 127 2. The current pattern, which is indicated in pattern mode with a pad lit Orange, will play. The pattern will loop playback continuously. 3. Press [Play] to stop playback. The playhead is reset to the pattern start. ▌ CHAINING A SERIES OF PATTERNS 1.
Page 128 Variations operate at track level. They can be selected manually but it is not possible to automatically select or chain track variations together. Variation Mode - 8x16 Grid Pad Colours Orange. Currently active / loaded track variation. Yellow. Empty Variation Slot. Bright Yellow. Available Variations. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 129 Variations. Quick copy is performed by keep holding the source [Pad] for about half a second + Press [Pad] for any destination pads. Pads will flash blue twice when copied to the clipboard and when pasted. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 130 6. Press [Back] screen button several times to exit the menus. Settings View Layout Piano Notes Grid Brightness High Knob Double Tap Knob Preview Stopped Variation Page Separate Tracks Quantize Recording Overdub Recording Back Play Perform Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 131 4. If the pattern is already playing; • Press [Pad] for the track row variation slot to select from the 8x16 grid. This is the track variation to play next and will switch to play the new variation upon completion of the currently playing pattern. •...
Page 132 Arrangements & Variations 7.7 Organic & Generative Arrangements NOTES Play has many features to add interest and create variations within patterns and arrangements. Some parameters can add more generative style variations where patterns and arrangements develop with an evolving and dynamic nature others can provide a fixed change.
Page 133 Plays a step on each of N Loops before Chance Play N / Skip M skipping the step for M Number of loop cycles. Skips a step on each of N Loops before playing...
Page 134 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% Chance ‘60%’ - Action ‘Play Step’ The step note / event will play but only with a 60% probability level. Other steps will always play each cycle.
Page 135 Skip N / Play M The Skip N / Play M operates very similar to the Play N / Skip M. It starts with skipping rather than playing steps in the loop cycles therefore is in reverse of Play N / Skip M but follows the same principles of operation.
Page 136 To reset the randomisation and write a new set of random values, use [Shift] + [Save]. The new, temporary randomization values can also be saved if required. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 137 Patch of parameters consisting of Samples in Nuke Randomize Folder, Filter Cutoff, Resonance, Overdrive and Type Panning. Patch of parameters consisting of Samples in Duke Nuke Randomize Pool, Filter Cutoff, Resonance, Overdrive and Type Panning. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 138 8. To reset the printed randomization on a track, Hold [Shift] + [Reset] in the randomize display. The current randomization is reset and ready for a new randomization to be applied. This can then be saved if required. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 139 50% of the sample pool. Randomize ‘80%’ - Type ‘1 Octave’ The step note / event will play a notes from within an octave range. The notes will be selected across a range of 80% of the octave.
Page 140 NOTES Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 141: Perform Mode
Only one effect from each when Perform is selected. The ability to category can be selected at any one time. The improvise with Play demonstrates the focus on last selected effect details will be displayed real time performance and on the fly creativity.
Page 142 LoFi Drone Pattern 5 Filter Cutoff Low-Pass 10 Where multiple settings exist on a track / selected steps a tilde ~ symbol will be displayed together with +/- for the generic offset. Live Rec Play Perform Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 143 If no tracks are selected, a prompt will be displayed when selecting a perform pad. 3. Press [Play] or [Shift] + [Play] to play the selected pattern or chain of patterns respectively.
Page 144 Algorithm based preset which triggers step Repeat Cyan repeats. Delay Violet Applies a delay preset punch-in effect. Reverb Purple Applies a reverb preset punch-in effect. Looped audio buffer-type punch-in effect. Loop Pink Master effect - does not require track selection. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 145 Radiat Tuning Cutoff Distortion Rearrange Repeat Delay Reverb Loop Perform Mode: Press [Perform] Latch / Unlatch an effect: Tap [Pad] Temporary Trigger an effect: Hold [Pad], Release [Pad] Ensure tracks are selected to apply effects. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 146 NOTES Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 147: Effects
The amount of effect audio sent to the main method than to listen how sound output is mix can be controlled per step. Play also has a affected through the sound design process and filter which operates as a DJ style low pass or...
Page 148 9.1 Effect Architecture NOTES Play has various effects which operate in different configurations. Sound FX and Saturation enhance the main output, while Delay and Reverb can be mixed into the main sound from each step or track. Many effects operate using presets found in the Master FX menu although custom setting are also possible.
Page 149 Hard Clip Sidechain Track 1 Soft Clip * Sidechain Track 2 Saturate Sidechain Track 3 Overdrive Sidechain Track 4 Overdrive+ Sidechain Track 5 Sidechain Track 6 Sidechain Track 7 Sidechain Track 8 * Default Presets Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 150 Currently loaded Master FX preset Custom Parameters is displayed alongside each effect. Back Play Perform Reverb Big Room Small Room Uncharted A collection of effect presets are Drone Analog Repeats available for each effect. Late Bounce Back Play Perform Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 151 -11.75 dB to +12 dB Sound Bass Boost 0-100 Sound Space Limiter Attack 0.05ms - 10.00ms (0.05 iterations) Limiter Release 5ms - 5000ms (5ms iterations) Limiter Sidechain On/Off Limiter Sidechain Channel Track 1 - Track 8 Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 152 This is the last option in each effect list and reflects the parameters assigned in the ‘Custom Parameters’ Settings. 5. Press (Screen) to select the custom preset. 6. Press [Back] to backup and then exit the menu. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 153 Delay Send Reverb Send Delay Send 0% 100% Dubster Delay Preset in the main effect applies style Mixed to Master Audio LoFi Drone Pattern 5 Reverb (Big Room) Delay (Dubster) Live Rec Play Perform Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 154 Reverb parameters mainly focuses on the space / room characteristics. detailed parameters are set and locked into the preset. In Play there are two factors that can be controlled for reverb:- • The send amount between 0% - 100%. This is set with the ‘Reverb Send’...
Page 155 Delay is a time based effect and is typically synchronised (or not) with the track tempo. The detailed parameters are set and locked into the preset. In Play there are two factors that can be controlled for delay:- • The send amount between 0% - 100%. This is set with the ‘Delay Send’...
Page 156 When used as a subtle effect the audio signal will have a warmer, analog feel. The preset can be assigned to give the style and character but there are no other adjustable parameters. Saturation Hard Clip Soft Clip Saturate Overdrive Overdrive+ Back Play Perform Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 157 Audio over Time The behaviour of a limiter can be controlled by envelopes and may include many other features. In play the behaviour and limiter style is ‘hard wired’ into a number of available presets. An option often seen within limiters is to sidechain the gain reduction. This means another source will be used to attenuate the audio based on the source audio sound characteristics.
Page 158 Heavy Nice And Low Broken Bones Squish That Cat Distortion Waves Sidechain Sidechain Sidechain Sidechain Sidechain Track 1 Track 2 Track 3 Track 4 Track 5 Sidechain Sidechain Sidechain Track 6 Track 7 Track 8 Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 159 3. Press (Screen) to open the limiter preset options list. 4. Turn (Screen) to scroll the preset options. Highlight one of the ‘Sidechain Track X’ options. The Track X must be a Play track that will be used as the sidechain audio source. Typically a beat orientated sound works well to rhythmically duck the limiter audio level.
Page 160 NOTES Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 161: Midi
MIDI is a classic technology expands the landscape of sound design when but remains an important feature in most using Play in a setup. The MIDI Fill functions and modern audio devices. Most of the processes piano roll expand the options when working with and instructions described earlier for audio MIDI.
Page 162 10.1 MIDI Terms NOTES To clarify some of the generic terminology and technology around MIDI, a summary of key definitions is provided. Play uses a Type B, TRS to MIDI Adapter. Also MIDI over USB is possible. 5 PIN MIDI...
Page 163 10.2 Basic MIDI concepts for Play. NOTES Play can be switched to MIDI mode when controlling external gear. MIDI mode is selected using [Shift] + [Audio/MIDI]. MIDI mode is indicated by the 4 column function pads being lit violet. A pre-requisite to working with MIDI is to ensure that the configuration settings are applied for the desired MIDI gear setup.
Page 164 MIDI clock assigned from the primary device is lost or is disconnected. • When Play sends MIDI clock it will continue to do so even if the sequencer is stopped. When Play receives a MIDI clock the tempo will reflect the external controller BPM.
Page 165 NOTES MIDI Settings are accessed by pressing the (Screen) Knob. These will dictate if Play leads on functions like clock and transport or if it acts as a secondary follower, responding to control and synchronisation from another primary device control.
Page 166 CC change messages to be sent in sync to the pattern steps. 5. Press [Play] on Play and the sequence will play the external device based on the notes and parameters set. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 167 Some typical examples are shown. Example Configuration 1: Play as the primary lead connected to Elektron Digitakt. MIDI Mode On. Play: Menu > MIDI MIDI OUT...
Page 168 The ability to connect to a PC or Mac via a MIDI connection is possible, which can allow software synths and plug-ins to be controlled by Play. Play will need a hub or will need to be powered by the PC / Mac as the USB connection is also the source of power for Play.
Page 169 NOTES An external device, keyboard or drum pads can be connected to control Play by MIDI either by USB or via the 5 Pin MIDI dongle. Notes can be played or recorded and CC messages controlling assigned parameters. Example Configuration 1: Play as the secondary follower controlled with Arturia Keystep.
Page 170 10.6 MIDI Mode NOTES Play must be in MIDI Mode to program steps and send MIDI data out. The parameter options change when in MIDI mode where the knobs represent MIDI orientated functions. These are not labelled and some can be configured specifically in the MIDI menu.
Page 171 Parameters in MIDI Mode. Label MIDI Mode Description Master Volume Master Volume Controls Play main output level. Limiter Limiter Controls Play main output limiter threshold. Tempo Tempo Controls / Displays Tempo. Track Swing Track Swing Controls Play swing amount. Track Length Track Length Adjusts number of steps in the track.
Page 172 When changing work step channel, the parameters are reset. The Fill function can be used to populate work step settings across the selected tracks. Randomize operates on Filter CC, Octave and Velocity when in MIDI Mode. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 173 MIDI NOTES When Play receives MIDI in it will use the work step for playback if a track or step is not selected. The Note however will be determined by MIDI input. Play operates with virtual MIDI thru functionality, redirecting out any incoming MIDI notes to the selected channel and port.
Page 174 4. The available options for Kick, Snare, HiHat, Synth and Bass allows the setting of the independent MIDI channel for the Fill instrument output. Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 175 MIDI settings in the Live preferences page will need to be set ‘On’ for MIDI Ports, Input & Output. When controlling to/from Play. The ‘Ext’ function, in Live should be on to use external sync settings and for tempo to be synchronised from Play.
Page 176 Power 4th Power 5th Major Minor Diminished Augmented Sustained2 Sustained4 Major 6th Minor 6th Major 7th Minor 7th Minor Major 7th Dominant 7th Major 9th Minor 9th Major 11th Major 13th Minor 11th Minor 13th Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 177 MIDI NOTES Play has polyphonic tracks in MIDI Mode which allows chords to be applied from Play’s chord preset library, accessed with the ‘Sample Start’ knob. The chord will operate based on the scale set in the settings menu. ▌ CREATING A MIDI CHORD SEQUENCE 1.
Page 178 NOTES MIDI Continuous Control Change Messages, also shortened to CC, are available in Play. CC Messages allow parameter changes to be communicated with a value range of 0-127. A pattern steps can be programmed from the CC parameter with a value for the step. Manual knob control and note preview output is based on the preview setting.
Page 179 ▌ CREATING A MIDI CC SEQUENCE 1. Establish what the MIDI CC configuration is for the devices to connect to Play. Most device manufacturers provide documented CC settings for their gear. These are also called ‘MIDI definitions’ in the standard documentation.
Page 180 ..Mapping > Jack Channel 10 CC Mapping can be CC Cutoff made independently CC Resonance for each port and each CC Sample Attack CC Sample Decay channel CC Reverb Send CC Delay Send CC Overdrive Back Play Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 181 NOTES The main menu MIDI options allow CC Mapping per Port and Per Channel. This is how Play aligns it’s CC parameters to an external device’s default CC target parameters. Note that when connecting Polyend Tracker, a predefined preset to control it’s parameters is also available, selectable in the Play MIDI CC Settings.
Page 182 NOTES MIDI CC can be transmitted manually, this is ideal to enable mapping between the Play MIDI CC Sources and a destination device. Many third party devices have a ‘MIDI Learn’ option which, when selected, detects and automatically maps incoming MIDI CC to the selected parameters.
Page 183 Sequencing PC Messages. PC 18 PC 12 PC Values 0-127* MIDI In External Device Example of different preset / patch structures 12 = A13, 18 = B3 i.e. 18=15+3, Play Starts at 0*. Bank A Bank B Bank C Bank D 0-15*...
Page 184 PC messages can be applied to steps the same way as applying CC values. How these are received may depend on the destination device. Some may change presets others patterns, some may change real-time in line with Play’s sequencer, some may wait to a restarted pattern for example. •...
Page 185 Pitch bend is a common and fairly standard part of a synthesizer or keyboard and follows a similar set up across many devices. Pitch bend is part of the MIDI standards. Play uses the (Microtune) parameter knob to control pitch bend when in MIDI Mode.
Page 186 Tracker from an external MIDI device and by controlling up to 8 voices across MIDI. Trackers selected instrument will act as the sound source and it is this instruments parameters that the Play CC will control. Play is the primary lead, handling control and clock while Tracker is the secondary follower.
Page 187 NOTES ▌ SETTING THE TRACKER CC MAPPING 1. Connect Play as the primary lead and Tracker as the secondary follower using the MIDI Jack adapters or via a USB Hub. 2. The default MIDI Control parameters are assigned to Knobs for CC#’s 12, 13, 17, 19, 22, 71, 74 and 75.
Page 188 NOTES Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 189: System
Also there are some topics that might be useful this manual. around housekeeping and good disciplines in working with Play. But there are also some tips that may be helpful beyond the administrative duties. The visual style pad brightness can be...
Page 190 System 11.1 Device Registration NOTES In order for Polyend to provide device support and to give access to future firmware updates, your Play must be registered on the Polyend website. ▌ REGISTRATION / SUPPORT CHECKLIST • Create an account at Polyend.com.
Page 191 8. The firmware will install and the on screen prompts provided will guide. The install process is typically less than 1 minute. 9. Play should restart automatically. If not and only when the update is 100% completed, Press On/Off to perform a manual start.
Page 192 Rear Panel The reset option is useful if any lock ups or freezing occurs on Play. It is not necessary in these situations to download a new OS. It is advised to keep a series of official, known good, firmware releases in the /firmware folder.
Page 193 11.4 User Interface Style. NOTES A number of user preferences that affect the style of Play are configurable in the main menu settings, accessed by pressing the (Screen) knob. These include grid pad brightness and knob behaviour for double tap or preview.
Page 194 5. Press [Back] to backup and exit the menu option. Selecting a parameter knob will also leave the menu. Settings View Layout Piano Notes Grid Brightness High Knob Double Tap Knob Preview Stopped Variation Page Separate Tracks Quantize Recording Overdub Recording Back Play Perform Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 195 Other formats will not be recognised. • Play uses the SD card in real time and will not function without the SD card being installed. A ‘bad’ folder / file structure on the SD card may also cause Play problems.
Page 196 NOTES ▌ BACKING UP THE SD CARD FOLDERS & FILES 1. This is recommended as a first task when first operating Play in order to have the original structure saved. Also periodic backups is important to save the projects and files which will be created over time.
Page 197 1x Stereo 3.5 mm jack to 2x 6.3 mm jack adapter. • 1x MIDI Type B, 3.5 mm jack to DIN adapter. • 16GB Micro SD Card. • Micro SD to USB-A dongle adapter. • Warranty & Safety and Polyend Play Essential information brochures Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 198 NOTES Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 199: Index
Index Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 200 Chord Fills 110 Knob Behaviour 193–194 Chromatic 100 Copy 14, 38, 95, 125 Licence 190 Custom Parameters 151 Limiter 22, 41, 53, 149, 157 Custom Preset 152 Live Recording 96–97, 142 Delay 62, 149, 155 Main Menu 26 Display 10 Master FX 148–150 Distortion 156 Master Volume 13, 40, 53 Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 201 Reverb 62, 149, 154 Pattern 24, 83–84, 87, 125, 127 Root Note 104–105 Pattern Mode 22, 85, 87, 124 PC 59, 183 Perform 22, 141–142, 144 Sample 59, 69, 71–72, 74, 77, 80, 88–89 Perform Mode Quick Reference 145 Sample Attack 61 piano roll 102 Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 202 Sequencer Mode 23, 33, 85–86, 88, View Mode 33–34, 99–100 92, 96 Volume 57 Settings 26 Sidechain 159 WAV 69, 77 Solo 33, 39, 85 Work Step 81, 90 Song Mode 123 Workflow 16 Sound FX 149 Specifications 197 Step Page 38 Step Selection 92–93 Steps 34, 83, 88, 92, 138 Stop 13 Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 203 Index Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 204 Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...
Page 205 Produced in the United Kingdom Version 2.0 July 2023 - Play OS 1.40 Rev 1 www.synthdawg.com Synthdawg...
Page 206 Polyend Play Manual Rev 1...

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