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Table Of Contents
Chapter 23 Ultrabeat 307
Modulation
Ultrabeat was developed with special attention paid to dynamic sound shaping
possibilities. To this end, almost every sound parameter can be modulated. Ultrabeat
provides two powerful LFOs, four new types of envelope generators (Env 1–4), velocity,
and four freely-definable MIDI controllers as modulation sources.
The settings for the LFOs and envelope generators are represented graphically. They
are located above and below Ultrabeat’s output section.
Each modulation routing is set at the desired destination (at the sound parameter
itself). Ultrabeat distinguishes between two types of modulation: Mod (standard
modulation) und Via (indirect modulation).
Mod and Via Modulations
You can modulate a sound parameter using an adjustable modulation value (called
modulation depth) with Mod. You can choose between two LFOs, four envelope
generators and the Max source, as sources for this modulation.
Via allows you to further tailor the modulation effect. To explain, the modulation depth
of the first modulation (Mod) can be modulated by a separate, independent source. The
intensity of this effect is set with the Via parameter. The sources for Via modulations
include velocity and four freely definable MIDI controllers.
A typical application for Via function usage is; increasing a pitch sweep as you play at
higher velocities, for example. To this end, an envelope (Env) is chosen as the Mod
source for the Pitch of an oscillator, and velocity (Vel) is chosen as the Via source. The
firmer the key is played, the higher (in pitch) it will sound—this is typical of synthesizer
tom tom sounds.
Exceptional Modulation Features
The design of the Mod and Via modulation options afford substantial differences
between Ultrabeat and other, more traditional, synthesizer designs. Ultrabeat’s Mod
and Via are given a target value that can be reached by modulation of the respective
target parameters, rather than indicating a modulation or effect intensity as a
percentage. The result of such modulation routing—its minimum and maximum effect
on the modulated parameter—can be set simply, and grasped at a glance, making the
complex subject of primary and secondary modulations an intuitive task.
As this method differs greatly from earlier approaches used in synthesis, we
recommend that you carefully read the “Modulation section, on page 325, to fully
benefit from this innovative new functionality.