Native Instruments REAKTOR 5 Getting Started Manual
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Native Instruments REAKTOR 5 Getting Started Manual

Native Instruments REAKTOR 5 Getting Started Manual

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Summary of Contents for Native Instruments REAKTOR 5

  • Page 1 Getting Started Guide...
  • Page 2 No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or otherwise transmitted or record­ ed, for any purpose, without prior written permission by Native Instruments GmbH, herein­ after referred to as Native Instruments. All product and company names are ™ or ® trade­ marks of their respective owners.
  • Page 3 Contact Germany Native Instruments GmbH Schlesische Str. 28 D-10997 Berlin Germany info@native-instruments.de www.native-instruments.de Native Instruments North America, Inc. 5631 Hollywood Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90028 sales@native-instruments.com www.native-instruments.com © Native Instruments GmbH, 2010. All rights reserved.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Ensembles, Instruments and KOMPLETE Instruments Loading Carbon 2 3.3.1 Opening the Sidepane 3.3.2 Opening the Browser 3.3.3 Loading a File Playing Carbon 2 and its Snapshots 3.4.1 Loading a Snapshot Adjusting the Sound 3.5.1 Switching Effects REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 4...
  • Page 5 Resetting the Positions of Instruments in the Ensemble Panel Restoring the Correct Snapshot Hierarchy 4.8.1 Opening the Instrument Properties Creating a Sequenced Synthesizer Recap and Overview Creating the Synth Sequencer Ensemble 5.2.1 Create a New Ensemble REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 5...
  • Page 6 Sample Key-Split and Root Note 6.3.4 Using Add from the Edit Sample List 6.3.5 Editing the Key-Split The Memory Drum Interface 6.4.1 Changing Pitch for Just one Sample Slot 6.4.2 Exploring the Memory Drum Snapshots REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 6...
  • Page 7 Tidying Up in the Instrument Panel 7.5.9 Changing the Appearance of the Faders Playing Your Synth and Making Changes to the Sound 7.6.1 Changing the Oscillators Waveform, Resetting the Filter and Output Level REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 7...
  • Page 8 Changing the Settings of the Existing Sample 8.7.3 Making Changes to the Key-Split and Root Key 8.7.4 Adding More Samples Sample Reverse and Other Playback Possibilities 8.8.1 Looping, and Direction Buttons 8.8.2 Transposing a Sample REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 8...
  • Page 9 8.10.4 Increasing the Number of Selector Inputs 8.10.5 Adding the Position Fader and Changing its Range 8.10.6 Final connections and Panel Appearance 8.10.7 Explore Your Sampler and Make Some Snapshots What’s Next? REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 9...

  • Page 10: Welcome To Reaktor

    This document will help you get started. The REAKTOR team at Native Instruments System Requirements For up-to-date information about system requirements and compatibility with current and legacy operating systems, please see our website at: www.native-instruments.com/REAKTOR REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 10...

  • Page 11: Reaktor Modes: Full, Player And Demo

    REAKTOR, and REAKTOR is running in Demo mode. In Demo mode, you have all functionality but the application will stop generating sound after 30 minutes. Furthermore, storing is disabled. Installation and activation are explained in detail in the separate Native Instruments Setup Guide. How to Get Started This document explains all necessary steps to get started with REAKTOR: ▪...

  • Page 12: The Reaktor Documentation

    Application Reference will provide a deeper understanding of how to use REAK­ TOR’s instruments, so it might be worth a look if you are using REAKTOR in Player mode, too. All of these documents are available from REAKTOR’s Help menu. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 12...

  • Page 13: Special Formatting Used In This Document

    Special Formatting used in this Document In addition to the manuals coming with REAKTOR, there is more information available on­ line: Be sure to visit the Native Instruments user forum at http://www.native-instruments.com/forum/. The huge community of REAKTOR users is sharing tips and tricks, and will help you with specific questions.

  • Page 14: Basic Settings In Reaktor

    You will also get to know REAKTOR a little bit without the distraction of making music using your DAW. Before you start your work with REAKTOR 5 it is a good idea to configure its audio settings to fit your needs.

  • Page 15: Selecting An Audio Hardware Device

    If there are two or more audio de­ vices installed on your computer, select the one you want REAKTOR to use by click­ ing its entry in the Device menu. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 15...
  • Page 16 On computers running a Windows® operating system, using ASIO™ is highly recommended. On computer running Mac OS® X, Core Audio™ is pre-selected. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 16...

  • Page 17: Selecting A Sample Rate

    2.1.3 Selecting a Sample Rate Select the sample rate that you want your audio hardware to work at from the Sample Rate menu. We recommend selecting a sample rate of 44100 Hz. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 17...

  • Page 18: Adjusting Output Latency

    On a modern computer that has been set up correctly, there should be no perceptible delay. Older computers may require a more relaxed latency setting. The way the latency is adjusted from within REAKTOR differs depending on the operating system you are using. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 18...
  • Page 19 Audio and MIDI Settings… dialog to open your audio hardware's control panel. In the control panel belonging to your audio hardware, select an output latency of about 10 ms. This should work well on most computer systems. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 19...
  • Page 20 To confirm the settings you have made, click OK. Mac OS® X Move the Latency slider at the bottom of the Audio and MIDI Settings… dialog to a val­ ue of about 256 samples. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 20...

  • Page 21: Routing: Assigning Reaktor's Inputs

    Inputs view. To assign one of REAKTOR's inputs to an input of your audio hardware device, click the corresponding entry in the right column of the Inputs view. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 21...

  • Page 22: Routing: Assigning Reaktor's Outputs

    Outputs view. To assign one of REAKTOR's outputs to an output of your audio hardware device, click the corresponding entry in the right column of the Outputs view. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 22...

  • Page 23: Configuring The Midi Hardware

    Click the Off text to the right of the device you which to use. The text should read On next to items you wish to be active. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 23...
  • Page 24 Basic Settings in REAKTOR Configuring the MIDI Hardware REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 24...

  • Page 25: Loading And Playing

    Browser, used for finding files in REAKTOR. Fig. 3.2 The Browser tab ▪ Click the Snapshot button to open the Snapshot tab, used for loading, saving, and morphing presets. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 25...
  • Page 26 It is possible to access all views in REAKTOR from the global menu entries under the View menu. For the sake of brevity, this will only be mentioned in this part of the Getting Started manual. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 26...

  • Page 27: Ensembles, Instruments And Komplete Instruments

    File Browser. To open and close the Sidepane, click the Sidepane button in the Main Bar. Fig. 3.6 The Sidepane button 3.3.2 Opening the Browser With the Sidepane open, click on the Browser tab, or press [F5] on your computer keyboard. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 27...
  • Page 28 Click the Player button at the Browser’s top. You will see all installed KOMPLETE Instru­ ments listed in the upper area. Select the package REAKTOR Factory Selection with a mouse click. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 28...
  • Page 29 TOR: It holds the factory content of REAKTOR and reads “Factory” after REAKTOR is activat­ ed. Until then, it is labeled “Demo”. This indicates that REAKTOR will switch into Demo mode if you load any Ensemble from that location. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 29...

  • Page 30: Loading A File

    Carbon 2 is a classic subtractive synthesizer with sections for oscillators, filters, modula­ tion sources and integrated effect units. Check the Instrument Reference for a detailed explanation of Carbon 2, or the documentation that comes with REAKTOR Factory Selection. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 30...

  • Page 31: Loading A Snapshot

    Snapshots, and loading any of these Snapshots will set each control of that Instru­ ment to a specific value, thus re-creating a particular sound. The Snapshots of Carbon 2 are accessible from the central control in the application’s Main Bar. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 31...
  • Page 32 Fig. 3.3 The Snapshot control Click into the Snapshot control to open a drop-down menu. The menu holds all Snap­ shots of the instrument. Select the entry In Deep. Play some notes to hear the difference. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 32...

  • Page 33: Adjusting The Sound

    Instead of the Delay, switch on the Chorus button to add some stereo spread. Fig. 3.4 Effects tab with Chorus and EQ effect activated 3.5.2 Changing the Filter Movement Also, let’s change the filter's movement. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 33...

  • Page 34: Changing The Filter Settings

    0.5. This will render the movement more audible. Add brightness to the sound by increasing the Cutoff value, again by clicking the ac­ cording knob and dragging it upwards. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 34...

  • Page 35: Saving Your Settings

    TOR. In this case, you create a modified copy of the file you loaded earlier in this tu­ torial. You can then re-use the modified sound in a different song by loading the al­ tered instrument instead of the original one. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 35...
  • Page 36 To store the Ensemble file as a copy of the original instrument, select the Save As… entry from the application menu. This will open a default window to select folder and filename. After you selected the new location and typed in a new filename, click the Save button. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 36...

  • Page 37: Modifying A Reaktor Ensemble

    Main Bar to open and close the Sidepane. The Side­ pane is where the Browser, Snapshot, Panelsets, and Properties tabs are located. Fig. 4.1 The Sidepane button ▪ Clicking the Browser tab opens the Browser. Fig. 4.2 The Browser tab REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 37...

  • Page 38: Using The Browser To Load The Ensemble

    Using the folder tree in the top part of the Browser, navigate to Ensembles > Classics > Synthesizer. You should now see a list of Synths in the bottom part of the Browser. In the bottom part of the Browser, double-click on Junatik to open it. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 38...

  • Page 39: Instruments Inside Ensembles

    Modifying a REAKTOR Ensemble Instruments inside Ensembles Fig. 4.6 Junatik in the Browser Instruments inside Ensembles In this section we will look at REAKTOR’s hierarchy of Ensembles and Instruments. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 39...

  • Page 40: Junatik Panel Overview

    Instruments are often folded away. Indeed the StereoTDelay is folded away in Junatik. ▪ Click on the button in the lower right to open it. Clicking on the — button next to will fold it away again. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 40...

  • Page 41: The Difference Between An Ensemble And An Instrument

    In REAKTOR terminology, an Instrument can be a traditional instrument like Synth or Sampler, an effect like a Delay or Reverb, or anything else like a Sequencer or even just a picture. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 41...
  • Page 42 Modifying a REAKTOR Ensemble Instruments inside Ensembles Fig. 4.9 Junatik Instrument Fig. 4.10 Delay Instrument REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 42...

  • Page 43: Snapshot Master For Plug-In And Snapshot Hierarchies

    Ens – Junatik. Alternatively you can click on the Properties tab in the Side­ pane. Click on the Function button to see the Function page of Junatik’s Properties. Fig. 4.12 The Function button REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 43...
  • Page 44 Fig. 4.13 Ensemble Properties with Recall by MIDI and Snapshot Master ticked Have a look above at the Properties, in the Snapshot area, the checkboxes Recall by MIDI Snapshot Master for Plug-In, are both engaged. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 44...

  • Page 45: Recall By Midi And Snapshot Master For Plug-In

    You will notice that the Snapshots in the Junatik Instrument all play back with no Delay effect: Snapshot 1 in the StereoTDelay has the Delay turned off, because the switch— above the knob, is turned off. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 45...

  • Page 46: Snapshot Flexibility

    To do that, we need to have a look at the Structure of the Ensemble. ▪ Click on the Structure button in the Sidepane. Fig. 4.16 The Structure button This will open the Ensemble Structure. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 46...

  • Page 47: Removing An Instrument From The Structure

    Right-click if you are on Windows® ([Ctrl]+click if you are on Mac OS® X) on the StereoTDelay Object in the Structure Window—this will open a context menu. Highlight the Delete menu entry with your mouse and click on it. This will remove the Instrument from the Structure. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 47...

  • Page 48: Using The Bowser To Search For Instruments

    Now we need to replace the Delay with a Reverb Instrument. We will use the Browser to load “SpaceMaster.ism.” In the Sidepane, click on the Browser tab to bring up the REAKTOR Browser. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 48...
  • Page 49 In the folder tree of the Browser, navigate to Instruments > Effects. From the bottom part of the Browser, click and drag Space Master 1 – Stereo.ism into the Structure area. This will insert this Instrument it into the Ensemble Structure. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 49...
  • Page 50 Using the Bowser to Search for Instruments Fig. 4.19 SpaceMaster has been inserted into the Structure. You can also right-click in the Structure and see a context menu that contains instruments to add. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 50...

  • Page 51: Connecting The Instrument To The Audio Out

    When you reach the SpaceMaster L Input or the dot beside it, let go of your mouse button. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 51...

  • Page 52: Resetting The Positions Of Instruments In The Ensemble Panel

    Junatik Instrument in the Ensemble's Panel—if this has not happened, skip this bit. To change the position, all you have to do is: Go to Panel View by pressing the Panel button in the Sidebar. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 52...
  • Page 53 Then click and drag the Instrument so that it is below the Junatik, and then let go—it should snap into place. So the Junatik will back at the top! Fig. 4.22 Junatik on top REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 53...

  • Page 54: Restoring The Correct Snapshot Hierarchy

    Click on Ens – Junatik header. This will bring up the Junatik Ensemble Properties. Click on the Function button. Now engage the Snapshot Master for Plug-In checkbox in the Snapshot area. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 54...
  • Page 55 Modifying a REAKTOR Ensemble Restoring the Correct Snapshot Hierarchy Now click on the SpaceMaster Panel—clicking on its name will do. This will bring up the SpaceMaster Properties. Engage the Recall by Parent checkbox. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 55...

  • Page 56: Creating A Sequenced Synthesizer

    Monoliner emulates classic analog-style Step Sequencers with three rows of knobs, whilst Soundschool Analog is a classic semi-modular, 2-Oscillator analog style Synth. We will then make the necessary connections—MIDI and Audio—so that the Sequencer will trigger the Synth. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 56...

  • Page 57: Creating The Synth Sequencer Ensemble

    We need to start from a new Ensemble and then insert the Instruments. 5.2.1 Create a New Ensemble ▪ Create a new Ensemble by pressing the Menu button and choosing the File > New En­ semble menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 57...

  • Page 58: Using The Browser To Load The Instruments

    You can also use the keyboard shortcut [Ctrl]+[N] for Windows® ([Cmd]+[N] if you are on Mac OS® X) to create a new Ensemble. 5.2.2 Using the Browser to Load the Instruments In the Sidepane, click the Browser tab to open the Browser. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 58...
  • Page 59 Then, using the folder tree of the Browser, navigate to the path Instruments > Se­ quencers. Drag Monoliner.ism from the bottom part of the Browser to the Panel area on the right. This will insert Monoliner into your Ensemble. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 59...
  • Page 60 Now we will use the Browser to load Soundschool Analog. Using the folder tree, navigate to Instruments > Synthesizers. Scroll down until you see Soundschool Analog.ism. Click and drag Soundschool Analog.ism to the Panel area on the right. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 60...

  • Page 61: Making The Synth Sequencer Work

    Making the Synth Sequencer Work Fig. 5.4 Inserting SoundSchool Analog into your Ensemble Making the Synth Sequencer Work We will need to do some wiring and make a MIDI connection from Monoliner to Sound­ school Analog. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 61...

  • Page 62: Overview Of The Structure

    Instrument from the Structure. 5.3.2 Removing the Unwanted Instrument ▪ Right-click on Windows® ([Ctrl]+click on Mac OS® X) on top of the Instrument and choose the Delete menu entry from the context menu. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 62...

  • Page 63: Connecting Analog Outputs To The Audio Out

    Input of the first Audio Out Terminal or black dot beside it—and let go. A connec­ tion will be made. Repeat the same procedure for the R Output and Audio Out Terminal 2. Your Structure should look like this: REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 63...

  • Page 64: Overview Of Monoliner And Analog

    Fader. Now we will have a look at the two Instruments in the Ensemble Panel. 5.3.4 Overview of Monoliner and ANALOG ▪ To go to the Panel View of your Ensemble, press the Panel button. Fig. 5.8 The Panel button REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 64...

  • Page 65: Making The Midi Connections Between Instruments

    As I said above, Monoliner has been programmed to send MIDI to other REAKTOR Synths, and also external Synths! We do need to make a small connection to make an internal MIDI connection in this Ensemble. Fortunately this is easy to set up. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 65...

  • Page 66: Using Internal Midi Connections

    The Connect page of ANALOG should now be shown in the Sidepane. Click on the Select Instruments drop-down menu in the MIDI In area of the connect page. You will no­ tice that the checkbox next to the Monoliner menu entry is checked now. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 66...

  • Page 67: Reaktor Run And Stop Buttons

    The Sequencer will start and you will see it running. The MIDI Activity lamps will also confirm the MIDI connection. You should also hear sounds coming from the Synth! REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 67...

  • Page 68: Looking More Closely At Monoliner

    Looking More Closely at Monoliner Let’s have a closer look at the speed and direction controls. 5.6.1 Changing the Direction and Speed This Sequencer is very flexible in terms of how it plays back the patterns. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 68...
  • Page 69 You can also similarly change the Speed by clicking the sync menu. Fig. 5.12 Direction Fig. 5.13 Speed The default value, 1/16, divides a bar into 16th notes. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 69...

  • Page 70: Number Of Steps, Step Offset And Shuffle/Swing

    ▪ The bottom row of knobs—labeled PITCH—is for Pitch. ▪ The row of buttons controls Gate On and Off. Fig. 5.14 Master knobs Fig. 5.15 Gate On/Off buttons Exploring the Snapshots/Show Hints Let’s explore this combination of Sequencer and Synth. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 70...

  • Page 71: Exploring Snapshots In Monoliner And Analog

    Remember, you can use the Save Ensemble command from the global menu if you want to overwrite your previously saved version. Or you can use Save Ensemble As…command if you want to keep an old version, and save a different version with an amended name. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 71...

  • Page 72: Exploring A Reaktor Sampler

    ▪ Finally, we will have a brief look at some of the unique features of Memory Drum. So first, we are again going to use the Browser to load up Memory Drum 2. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 72...

  • Page 73: Using The Browser To Launch Memory Drum

    Using the Browser to Launch Memory Drum 2 Fig. 6.1 Memory Drum 2 Using the Browser to Launch Memory Drum 2 In the Sidepane, click on the Browser tab to open the Browser. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 73...
  • Page 74 First of all, explore the sounds by playing different pitches on your key­ board. Maybe you are happy with the samples but you would like to replace them with some of your Samples? To do that, we need to open the Sample Map Editor. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 74...

  • Page 75: Replacing And Editing Samples In The Sample Map Editor

    Sidebar or use the keyboard shortcut [F9]. Turn on the Select Sample by Key feature by pressing the button in the top-right of the Sample Map. You can now select Samples with your MIDI keyboard. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 75...

  • Page 76: Using Replace In The Edit Sample List

    MIDI Note 48. First of all we need to select it by pressing C2 on our keyboard. 6.3.2 Using Replace in the Edit Sample List ▪ Open the Edit drop-down menu in the top-left of the Sample Map Editor and choose the Replace menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 76...

  • Page 77: Sample Key-Split And Root Note

    REAKTOR Preferences. In my example I have replaced the Snare placed on the slot corresponding to MIDI Note 48. 6.3.3 Sample Key-Split and Root Note Let’s have a closer look at the sample. Fig. 6.5 Clap CloseTheBook.wav as seen in the Sample Map Editor REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 77...

  • Page 78: Using Add From The Edit Sample List

    Sound 9. Click on the Edit drop-down menu and choose the menu entry Add. Fig. 6.6 Adding a new sample to the Sample Map using the Add menu entry REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 78...

  • Page 79: Editing The Key-Split

    Let’s go back to the first sample that we replaced and change the pitch. With Memory Drum it is possible to just change the pitch of one slot without affecting any of the other slots. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 79...
  • Page 80 This is what is unique with this sample drum player. Each sample sound-slot can have different settings of all of its parameters. Try changing other controls, you can have different Envelope, and Filter settings for each Note. Let’s explore this a bit more. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 80...

  • Page 81: Exploring The Memory Drum Snapshots

    Snapshots make sure you save them to a new Snapshot by pressing the Append button and renaming the Snapshot. When you have finished add­ ing / replacing samples, remember to use Save Ensemble As… command. If you don’t, all REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 81...
  • Page 82 Modules, we will also look at various sample playback possibilities such as reverse, forward / backwards, and forward / backwards reverse. Also, we will learn how to transpose samples in the Sample Map Editor. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 82...

  • Page 83: Building A Synth Using Macros

    Modules that have a specific relationship by encapsulating them in Macros. Below in the finished Synth you can see the different Macros by where the lines and titles around groups of controls are. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 83...
  • Page 84 The Oscillator 1 Macro contains 3 Oscillators in the Structure, and controls for Pitch, Fine, P-Width and a Wave Switch. These are all individual Modules, but they have been connected and put in a small ‘folder’ we call a Macro. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 84...

  • Page 85: Preparation

    Instrument that is appropriate for the task. 7.2.1 Loading a New Ensemble We will start with REAKTOR’s default New Ensemble. Press the Menu button and choose the File > New Ensemble menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 85...
  • Page 86 Building a Synth Using Macros Preparation You will see an Ensemble Panel. Fig. 7.3 Panel View of a new Ensemble ▪ Press the Structure button to see its Structure. Fig. 7.4 The Structure button REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 86...

  • Page 87: Removing The Default Instrument

    Outputs, Left and Right. ▪ To delete the default Instrument right-click on Windows® ([Ctrl]+click on Mac OS® X) on the Instrument and choose the Delete menu entry from the context menu. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 87...

  • Page 88: Inserting A New Instrument

    ▪ To insert a new Instrument, right click if you are in Windows® ([Ctrl]+click for Mac OS® X) on a blank part of the Ensemble Structure to open the context menu. Choose the Insert Instrument >_New – 1in1out menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 88...
  • Page 89 Building a Synth Using Macros Preparation Fig. 7.7 Inserting a new Instrument Our inserted Instrument has an Input and an Output. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 89...

  • Page 90: Connecting The Instrument To The Audio Out

    Click and hold the mouse down, whilst you move it to the Input port of the Audio Out Module labeled 1. When you reach 1 (or the dot beside it) of the Audio Out Module, let go, and you should see a wire connection. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 90...

  • Page 91: Adding An Oscillator And An Adsr Env To The Instrument

    Structure and choose the Macro > Building Blocks > Oscillators > Osc (pls, saw, tri) menu entry. An Osc 3 Wave Oscillator will appear in the Instrument Structure and In­ strument Panel. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 91...
  • Page 92 Voice Combiner, by clicking and dragging so that the wire connects, much the same as we did before when we connected the Instrument to the Audio Output Terminals. Fig. 7.10 Oscillator connected to Audio Voice Combiner REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 92...

  • Page 93: Inserting The Adsr Env

    Right-click if you are in Windows® ([Ctrl]+click if you are on Mac OS® X) on an emp­ ty space in the Instrument Structure and choose the Built-In Module > MIDI In > Note Pitch menu entry to insert the Note Pitch Module into the Structure. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 93...

  • Page 94: Connecting The Pitch And Gate Modules

    Using the same click and drag techniques as before, connect the NotePitch Module to the P (Pitch) Input of the Osc 3 Wave Macro. Then connect the Gate Module to the G (Gate) Input of the ADSR-Env Macro. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 94...

  • Page 95: Safe Output Level

    Now play a few notes, and you should hear the Oscillator change pitch and start and stop with your key presses! Inserting the Filter The next thing to add is a Filter Macro. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 95...

  • Page 96: Inserting The Filter Macro And Doing Some Rewiring

    By clicking and dragging, connect the Out of the Osc 3 Wave Macro to the In of the 4-Pole Filter Macro. Then connect Out of the 4-Pole Filter to the Input of the Audio Voice Combiner la­ beled “}”. Your Synth should now look something like this: REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 96...

  • Page 97: Unlocking The Panel To Move The Macros

    Panel. Alternatively you can use the key­ board shortcut [Ctrl]+[P] if you are in Windows® ([Cmd]+[P] if you are in Mac OS® X) to toggle between a locked and unlocked Panel. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 97...

  • Page 98: Adding A Second Oscillator And A Mixer

    We will now add a second Oscillator, as this will make a fatter sound. We will also add a mixer, and make all the necessary connections. 7.5.1 Adding a Second Oscillator Using Duplicate Instead of inserting another Oscillator, we will duplicate the one we already have. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 98...

  • Page 99: Using Properties To Rename The Oscillator Macros

    A copy will be placed on top of the old Osc 3 Wave Macro. 7.5.2 Using Properties to Rename the Oscillator Macros Both Oscillators have the same name, so we need to rename them. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 99...
  • Page 100 Properties tab for that Macro. In the label area click and drag across the text, and type “Oscillator 1” and press [En­ ter]. Do the same for the other Oscillator and this time type Oscillator 2. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 100...

  • Page 101: Adding A Mixer

    ▪ To insert the mixer, right-click if you are in Windows® ([Ctrl]+click if you are in Mac OS® X) on a blank part of the Instrument Structure and choose the Built-In Module > Signal Path > Amp/Mixer menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 101...
  • Page 102 We need to connect the Output of the Oscillator 1 and 2 to the Mixer. ▪ Click and drag on the Out of Oscillator 1 and connect the wire to In of the Mixer Mod­ ule. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 102...

  • Page 103: Increasing The Number Of Mixer Inputs

    Mixer Module. When you reach it, a connection will be made to a new port. After connecting the Output of the Mixer to the 4-Pole Filter, your Synth will look some­ thing like this: Fig. 7.19 Mixer connected to both Oscillators and the Filter REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 103...

  • Page 104: Adding Faders And Connecting Them To The Mixer

    Input of the Mixer Module and choose the Create Control menu entry. This will create a Fader. Fig. 7.20 Using the context menu to create a control at an Input Fig. 7.21 The connected Fader REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 104...

  • Page 105: Using Duplicate To Add A Second Adsr-Env

    ▪ So to do this, click and hold on the red output from the NotePitch Module and then drag the wire to all of the P Inputs of the Macros, including the ADSR-Env and 4-Pole Filter. Your Structure should look something like this: REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 105...

  • Page 106: Tidying Up In The Instrument Panel

    You can grab the Macros by their titles. If an item's text is red, it is selected. You can also select multiple items at once by dragging a box around all you want to select or by using [Shift]+click. Move the Macros around so that they look like this: REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 106...
  • Page 107 Macro’s Properties to do this. In the Instrument Structure, in Windows® right-click (in Mac OS® X [Ctrl]+click) on the ADSR-Env Macro that is connected to the Filter Macro and choose the Properties menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 107...

  • Page 108: Changing The Appearance Of The Faders

    Faders, you can skip this section. To change the appearance, we are again going to use REAKTOR’s Properties and press the View button. In Windows®, right-click (in Mac OS® X [Ctrl]+click) on one of the Faders to bring up its Properties. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 108...
  • Page 109 Change Style selector from Vertical Fader to Knob. Do the same for the other Fader. Whilst we are at it, we might as well rename the Knobs to Osc 1 Level and Osc 2 Level. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 109...

  • Page 110: Playing Your Synth And Making Changes To The Sound

    You might find that the Synth might sound a bit muffled. I would suggest changing the Oscillator waveform to Saw, by using the Wave switch, and also turning the Filter's Cutoff control clockwise. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 110...
  • Page 111 Playing Your Synth and Making Changes to the Sound Fig. 7.26 Changed Filter and Oscillator settings ▪ Also you could turn the Output Level down to -20. Fig. 7.27 Safer output level REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 111...

  • Page 112: Creating Some Snapshots

    +[S] (in Mac OS® X press [Shift]+[Cmd]+[S]) to execute the Save Ensemble As… command. Because we started off with a new Ensemble you will probably need to navigate back to your User Folder. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 112...

  • Page 113: Make A Sampler Using Reaktor Modules

    We will use REAKTOR’s basic Sampler Module. We will use an Envelope and a Filter Mod­ ule, and connect the controls such as Attack, Decay, Sustain and Release for the Enve­ lope, and Cutoff and Resonance for the Filter. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 113...

  • Page 114: Building The Basic Structure

    We will start in much the same way as when we built our Synth. So we need to start off by creating a New Ensemble. 8.3.1 Load up a New Ensemble ▪ Press the Menu button and choose the File > New Ensemble menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 114...

  • Page 115: Inserting The First Modules

    Modules. In Windows®, right-click (in Mac OS® X [Ctrl]+click) on a space inside the Instru­ ment Structure and choose the Built-In Module > Sampler > Sampler menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 115...
  • Page 116 Synth. So choose the Built-In Module > MIDI In > NotePitch menu entry and then from the same place in the Structure context menu the Built-In Module > MIDI In > Gate menu entry. Your Structure should look something like this: REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 116...

  • Page 117: Inserting The Envelope

    Next we will insert an ADSR Envelope and controls for Attack, Decay, Sustain and Re­ lease. In Windows®, right-click (in Mac OS® X [Ctrl]+click) on a space inside the Instrument Structure and choose the Built-In Module > LFO, Envelope > ADSR menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 117...

  • Page 118: Adding The Controls For The Envelope

    To add an Attack Fader to the Envelope we need to right-click in Windows® ([Ctrl] +click in Mac OS® X) on the A or red dot beside it, and choose the Create Control menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 118...

  • Page 119: Making The Connections

    Making the Connections Now we need to connect the Sampler to our Outputs, and the Gate and NotePitch Modules need to be connected to the Sampler and ADSR-Env, using click / hold and drag. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 119...

  • Page 120: Connecting The Sampler To The 2 Audio Voice Combiners

    Repeat the same procedure for the Gate Module, which needs to be connected to the Trig Input of the Sampler and the G (Gate) Input of the ADSR-Env. Your Structure will now look something like this: REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 120...

  • Page 121: Loading A Sample Into The Sampler

    Opening the Sample Map Editor from the View Menu ▪ Click on the Sample Map button in the Sidebar. Fig. 8.5 The Sample Map button You will see the Sample Map Editor below the Instrument. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 121...

  • Page 122: Adding A Sample To The Sample Map Editor

    Sample Map in Memory Drum 2. 8.5.2 Adding a Sample to the Sample Map Editor ▪ To add a sample to the Sample Map, click on Edit drop-down menu and choose the Add menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 122...
  • Page 123 FX or some drone textures. After clicking “Open”, the Sample will be placed in the Sample Map. Fig. 8.7 Sample in place Now if you play your MIDI keyboard you should here the sample play back at different pitches! REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 123...

  • Page 124: Tidying Up The Appearance And Moving The Modules

    We’ll start off by [Shift]-clicking on the Note Pitch, Sampler, the Audio Voice Combiners and the L and R Output. We will then drag the selected Modules down and to the left. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 124...

  • Page 125: Deleting Unwanted Modules

    [Shift]-click to highlight both Modules. In Windows®, right-click (in Mac OS® X [Ctrl]+click) one of the selected Modules and then choose the Delete Selection menu entry to remove the Modules from the Structure. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 125...

  • Page 126: Using The Panel Lock Button To Move The Knobs

    Panel so we can drag the knobs to another position. Click on the Panel button to view the Instrument Panel. Click on the Panel Lock button to unlock the Panel. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 126...

  • Page 127: Adding More Samples And Changing Their Settings

    If you remember, the idea of this Sampler is to map different sample loops to different keys. So we need to make changes to the Sample Map and add more samples. We will need to reopen the Sample Map Editor to do this. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 127...

  • Page 128: Double-Clicking On The Waveform To Open The Sample Map

    Since we only want the sample to playback on that key, you need to activate the Sin­ gle Key Mode. To do this, select the Single Key Mode menu entry from the Edit drop- down menu. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 128...
  • Page 129 Press [Enter] on your computer keyboard when you are finished. The sample will only play back on MIDI Note 48 at its correct Pitch. Fig. 8.10 Remapping the Sample REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 129...

  • Page 130: Adding More Samples

    We will learn how to change the direction of sample playback. Sample Reverse and Other Playback Possibilities Now we will explore ways to loop reverse and transpose samples. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 130...

  • Page 131: Looping, And Direction Buttons

    MIDI keyboard to select a sam­ ple. Let’s start off with the one on MIDI Note 48. Now click on the Loop button—its background will light up. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 131...

  • Page 132: Transposing A Sample

    ▪ Use the Root settings to change the Pitch. In my example, I have transposed the sample down 7 semitones by changing the Root note to 7 semitones higher. Fig. 8.13 Transposing a Sample REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 132...

  • Page 133: Adding A Filter

    In Windows®, right-click (in Mac OS® X [Ctrl]+click) on a space inside the Instrument Structure and choose the Built-In Module > Filter > Multi 2-Pole menu entry. Fig. 8.14 Inserting a Filter. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 133...

  • Page 134: Creating The Filter Controls And Making The Connections

    LP (Lowpass) Output of the Filter to the 2 Audio Voice Combiners. After moving the Modules around to create some space, your Structure should look some­ thing like this: Fig. 8.15 Filter with controls in the Structure REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 134...

  • Page 135: Tidying Up The Appearance In The Instrument Panel

    Now you have saved your work, just experiment with the different Filter Outputs. In your Instrument Structure, click on the BP Output from the Multi 2-Pole and drag the wires to the Audio Voice Combiners. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 135...
  • Page 136 Now play your MIDI keyboard and change the settings of the Filter and maybe the controls for the ADSR as well. Finally connect the HP Output to the 2 Audio Voice Combiners. Then decide which Filter Outputs is best for you. Save your work. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 136...

  • Page 137: Using Save Ensemble To Update Your Already Saved Sampler

    If you are happy with the Sampler as it is, you can skip the next section! 8.10 Modifying the Existing Sampler This section is for those of you who want a bit more flexibility with the Filter section of the Sampler. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 137...

  • Page 138: Overview Of Selector Used To Cross-Fade

    Position Fader and connect the Output to the 2 Audio Voice Combiners. ▪ On Mac OS® X [Ctrl]+click, on Windows® right-click on a space inside the Instru­ ment Structure and choose Built-In Module > Signal Path > Selector/Scanner menu entry. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 138...

  • Page 139: Connecting The Filter Outputs

    When your cursor reaches the blue dot next to the 0 Input, let go, and the connection will be made. The Selector Input turns black which confirms the audio connection has been created. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 139...

  • Page 140: Increasing The Number Of Selector Inputs

    OS® X [Cmd] key or Windows® [Ctrl] key down as well. When we reach the Selector just below our previous connection, a new input is con­ nected! Repeat the process to connect the LP Output to a third Selector Input: REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 140...

  • Page 141: Adding The Position Fader And Changing Its Range

    We need to change the range of the Fader by bringing up its Properties. Do this by double-clicking on the Fader in the Structure. Go to the Function page of the Fader Properties by pressing the Function button. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 141...

  • Page 142: Final Connections And Panel Appearance

    Final connections and Panel Appearance Finally we need to connect the Selector to the 2 Audio Voice Combiners. ▪ Again click and hold, and drag the wire towards the Inputs of the Audio Voice Combiners. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 142...
  • Page 143 ▪ Finally we need to unlock the Instrument Panel to move the Fader, by clicking on the Panel Lock button and dragging the Pos Fader to the right. Fig. 8.23 Panel Lock button REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 143...

  • Page 144: Explore Your Sampler And Make Some Snapshots

    ▪ Lock the Panel by pressing the Panel Lock button again. 8.10.7 Explore Your Sampler and Make Some Snapshots Make some changes to the settings of your DIY Sampler and save them as Snapshots. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 144...
  • Page 145 Make a Sampler Using REAKTOR Modules Modifying the Existing Sampler Remember, we press the Snapshot tab and use the Append button to store our Snapshot. Fig. 8.25 The Snapshot Tab Fig. 8.26 Using Append REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 145...
  • Page 146 Save Ensemble command or if you decided you want to keep an earlier ver­ sion of the Sampler, maybe one without the Selector, then use the Save Ensemble As… command and type in an amended name. REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 146...

  • Page 147: What's Next

    Instruments and Ensembles. Wherever you go from here, have fun with REAKTOR and don’t forget to share your crea­ tions with the user community! REAKTOR 5.5 - Getting Started Guide - 147...

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