User Guide

512 Chapter 28 Sculpture
The Core Engine
The signal flow was discussed in “The Synthesis Core of Sculpture” on page 456. To
recap, and explain in a more hands on way, please follow these steps. This section is
intentionally simplified, but please work through it. Knowing the mechanics of
Sculpture is essential to your success:
The String
The string is the central synthesis element. It offers a range of parameters that allow
you to adjust its material—what it’s made of and what environment it’s being played in
(water, air, and so on).
Each parameter can be explored further in the “String and Object Parameters” on
page 462.
Before starting, Control-click on the string (the green horizontal line in the Pickup
display) to activate/deactivate string animation. When active, the string will vibrate,
making it easier to visualize the impact of the objects and pickups.
 Click the Keyscale button at the bottom of the Material Pad ring, as shown in the
graphic.
 Strike and hold or repeatedly strike middle C on your keyboard.
Middle C is the default pitch of the string.
 While doing so, grab hold of the ball on the Material Pad by click-holding on it with
your mouse, and move it around. Listen to the sonic changes as you move between
the Nylon, Wood, Steel, and Glass materials. Keep an eye on the string (the green
horizontal line in the Pickup display, to the left) as you’re doing so.
 Release the mouse button once you’ve found a basic tone that you like.
 Now, experiment with the values of each of the sliders that surround the Material
Pad—namely the Media Loss, Tension Mod and Resolution parameters (while
continuing to strike middle C). Take note of the changes that each makes to the
sound, and also the string animation in the Pickup display. Play a few notes above
and below middle C, again keeping your eye on the string.