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Table Of Contents
96 Chapter 8 Metering
BPM Counter
You can use the BPM Counter to analyze the tempo of an audio track. Insert the plug-in
into a track, to analyze the dynamic events of the audio signal.
The detection circuit looks for any transients in the input signal. Transients are very fast,
non-periodic sound events in the attack portion of the signal. The more obvious this
impulse is, the easier it is for the BPM Counter to detect the tempo. As a result,
percussive drum and instrumental rhythm tracks (basslines, for example) are very well
suited for tempo analysis. Pad sounds are a poor choice.
The LED shows the current analysis status. If the LED is flashing, a tempo measurement
is taking place. When lit, analysis is complete, and the tempo is displayed. The
measurement ranges from 80 to 160 beats per minute. The measured value is displayed
with an accuracy of one decimal place.
The BPM Counter also detects any tempo variation in the signal, and tries to analyze it/
them accurately. If the LED starts flashing during playback, this indicates that the BPM
Counter has detected a tempo that has deviated from the last received (or set) tempo.
As soon as a new, constant tempo is recognized, the LED will be solidly lit.
Click the LED to reset the BPM Counter.