User Manual

5
Getting Started
The Tensor performs realtime tape stop/slowdown/reverse, time stretching, and pitch shifting. The hold
footswitch can loop and manipulate phrases up to 9.4 seconds (4.7 seconds in stereo). Both footswitch-
es can be set to momentary or latching mode. The Tensor is always listening to what you play, so you
can switch from bypass to eect with no gap or delay. Intelligent randomization adapts to the current
knob settings to add random glitches, stutters, and pitch changes.
The Tensor maps between real time (as you play) and an alternate time based on the combination of
control settings. It takes some practice to play and hear in disjoint time bases, but in most cases you can
concentrate on what you are playing and let the Tensor stretch, shift, and warp the sound.
In addition to its front-panel knobs and switches, the Tensor supports USB MIDI to record, playback, and
sequence sound changes.
To get familiar with the Tensor, start with a full wet, normal playback setting:
Play a loop or some music through the Tensor and turn each of the knobs to see its eect on the sound.
Try the SPEED, TIME, and PITCH knobs one by one, then combine them. Next, slowly turn up the RAND
(random) knob and hear how it interacts with the other controls.
In live play mode, the Tensor does tape speed, time stretching, and pitch shifting while maintaining a
real-time feel. It will fall behind when slowing down or stretching the audio, but tries to find good points
to jump back so that it remains playable.
With a MIDI controller or remote footswitch, you can also use the Tensor as a looper / sample playback
pedal.