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Line 181: + + − + − + − + − + − + + + + + + + + + + + − * '''Add Effect''' => Add an effect to the FX-chain. − * '''Remove All Effects''' => Clean the FX-chain, deleting all the effects. − * '''Effect List''' => The list of effects in the layer's FX-chain. − + − + − + − Note that not all these options will be available all the time. For instance, if there is only one effect in the chain, "Move" options won't be shown.+ Line 243:
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Line 431: − + − + − + − + − + − '''Note: Step Sequencer is alpha software''' − + − * Pattern editor+ − * Song editor − * Pad triggers (ZynPad) − The step sequencer may be accessed from the main Zynthian screen or by a long press of the SNAPSHOT encoder. Access to the editors and players is via a menu.+ + + + + − ===Menu Selection===+ − Short press the LAYER encoder. The menu is displayed. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to highlight a menu entry. − Move beyond the bottom entry to scroll down if more options are available than screen size allows to display. − Short press the LAYER or SELECT encoder to select the menu entry or short press the BACK encoder to cancel. − Menu may also be accessed by clicking the top bar (not the status display on the right) with a pointing device. Menu options are selected by clicking on them and the menu may be scrolled by dragging up and down.+ − All patterns and songs are saved to a common file.+ + − + − Some parameters must be adjusted using the _parameter editor_. This is a control that appears in the top bar showing the parameter being adjusted, its value and some buttons to allow up / down adjustment of the parameter.+ − Access the _parameter editor_ by selecting a menu entry. The parameter editor is displayed with the current parameter name and value.+ − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoders to adjust the value. Values may have minimum and maximum limits.+ − Short press the BACK encoder to cancel and close the editor. − Short press the LAYER or SELECT encoder to assert the value and close the editor. − Parameters may be adjusted with a pointing device by clicking on the cancel, up, down and assert buttons.+ − ===Save===+ − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Save" menu option. All patterns and songs are immediately saved to disk. − ===Load===+ − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu.+ − Select "Load" menu option. All patterns and songs are immediately loaded from disk. + − ===Pattern Editor===+ − − The pattern editor allows the creation of a sequence of MIDI events within a time-boxed period. This period is defined in _steps_. The quantity of steps may be selected for each pattern. Any quantity of MIDI events may be added to the pattern at each step. The most common MIDI events are notes. The pattern editor displays a grid with horizontal _tramlines_ indicating black and white notes. There can be a grid indicating time divisions and octaves. There is a pianoroll on the left with each 'C' note indicated by a legend. Clicking on a note with a pointing device will sound the note briefly. Most common workflows are exposed via rotary encoders, push buttons and pointing device input. More options are available via menus.+ − ====Pattern Selection====+ − There may be up to 999 patterns loaded into the step sequencer. By default pattern 1 is displayed.+ − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Pattern" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to select the pattern to edit. The title and grid change to show the pattern that will be selected. − Short press the LAYER or SELECT encoder to select the pattern or short press BACK encoder to cancel. − ====Adding Notes====+ − Use the BACK encoder to select the note to add. The screen will scroll at top and bottom edges. − Use the SELECT encoder to select the step at which the note will start. − Use the LAYER encoder to select the duration of the note. Duration is indicated by the length of the highlight border. − Use the SNAPSHOT encoder to select the velocity of the note. Velocity is indicated by a yellow bar in the bottom left of the screen. − Short press the SELECT encoder to add the note. The note is indicated by a shaded block starting at the required start step with length indicating duration and opacity indicating velocity. − Notes may also be added by clicking on the note / start step if you have a pointing device. To scroll screen with pointing device drag the pianoroll up or down.+ − + − Use the BACK encoder to select the note to remove. − Use the SELECT encoder to select the step at which the note starts. − Short press the SELECT encoder to remove the note. − Notes may also be removed by clicking on the note / start step if you have a pointing device.+ − ====Changing Duration====+ − Use the BACK encoder to select the note to adjust. − Use the SELECT encoder to select the step at which the note starts. − Use the LAYER encoder to adjust the duration of the note. − ====Changing Velocity====+ − Use the BACK encoder to select the note to adjust. − Use the SELECT encoder to select the step at which the note starts. − Use the SNAPSHOT encoder to adjust the velocity of the note. − ====Controlling Playback====+ − Short press the SNAPSHOT encoder to start playback of the pattern. The pattern will resume playback from its previously stopped step, looping when it reaches the end of the pattern. − Short press the SNAPSHOT encoder to pause playback. − Bold press the SNAPSHOT encoder to stop playback and / or recue to start of pattern. − NOTE: When exiting the _pattern editor_ playback will stop. This is because the _pattern editor_ is a design tool and not intended for performance. − Playback may also be controlled with a pointing device by pressing the start / pause and stop / recue buttons in the topbar.+ − Playback may also be controlled via external MIDI transport control (start, stop, continue, locate).+ − ====Changing Pattern Length====+ − By default each pattern is 16 steps long. This may be adjusted from 1 to 64 steps in each pattern. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Steps in pattern" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to adjust the quantity of steps in the pattern. The quantity of grid columns changes to match the step in pattern. − Note: The pattern editor always shows all the steps, i.e. there is no horizontal scrolling or zooming.+ − ====Change Time Divisions====+ − A user may wish to use the concept of time divisions, e.g. beats in a bar, steps in a beat, etc. This is presented by the display of vertical lines. By default the steps per beat is 4. This may be adjusted from 0 to 24. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Steps per beat" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to adjust the quantity of steps per beat. The vertical grid lines move to match the steps per beat. − Setting to zero will hide vertical lines. − − Note: The steps per beat is constrained to the values: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24. This is because it must divide exactly into 24 which is the quantity of clock cycles per beat. − − ====Transpose==== − All notes within a pattern may be permanently transposed. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Transpose pattern" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to move all notes up or down. The pianoroll scrolls to indicate the transposition. − − ====Vertical Zoom==== − By default 16 note are shown on the pianoroll and corresponding 16 rows in the grid. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Vertical zoom" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to adjust the vertical zoom. The quantity of rows in grid (and notes in pianoroll) change to match the vertical zoom value. − − ====MIDI channel==== − The pattern editor plays its sequence of notes out on a single MIDI channel. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "MIDI channel" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to adjust the MIDI channel between 1 and 16. − − ====Clocks Per Step==== − By default each step within a pattern is advanced after 6 MIDI clock cycles. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Clocks per step" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to adjust the clocks per step. − − Note: Adjusting the steps per beat will automatically set the clocks per step. Adjustment of clocks per step allows fine control and less common time signatures. − − ====Clear Pattern==== − A pattern may be cleared of its content. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Clear pattern" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Short press the LAYER or SELECT encoder to clear pattern or short press BACK encoder to cancel. − − ====Copy Pattern==== − The currently selected pattern may be copied to another pattern location. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Copy pattern" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to select the pattern to copy the previous pattern to. The title and grid change to show the pattern that will be overwritten. − Short press the LAYER or SELECT encoder to overwrite pattern with previously selected pattern or short press BACK encoder to cancel. − − ===Song Editor=== − − [[File:SongEditor.png|400px|right]] − The song editor allows the assignment of patterns to a variable quantity of tracks. Each song may have any quantity of tracks. A track represents a sequence of patterns. Each track may have any quantity of patterns and hence be any duration. Each pattern may belong to a group (A, B, C...), has a MIDI channel and a play mode. The track group and number are shown on the left with its MIDI channel in brackets and its play mode shown by an icon. Patterns may not overlap on the same track. A timeline is shown along the bottom of the grid. Bar (or _sync point_) markers are indicated by vertical lines with its time (in time divisions) at the bottom in the timeline. There may up to 999 songs loaded. − − ====Song Selection==== − There may be up to 999 songs loaded into the step sequencer. By default no song is displayed. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Song" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to select the song to edit. The title and grid change to show the song that will be selected. − Short press the LAYER or SELECT encoder to select the song or short press BACK encoder to cancel. − − ====Adding Patterns==== − Use the BACK encoder to select the track. The screen will scroll at top and bottom edges. − Use the SELECT encoder to select the time at which the pattern will start. The screen will scroll at left and right edges. − Use the LAYER encoder to select the pattern that will be added. Pattern number is shown in the bottom left of the screen. Pattern duration will be indicated by the selection border. − Short press the SELECT encoder to add the sequence. The sequence is indicated by a shaded block starting at the required start step with length indicating pattern duration. − If the pattern overlaps an existing pattern then the existing pattern will be removed. − − Patterns may also be added by clicking on the track / start time if you have a pointing device. To scroll screen with pointing device drag the track list up or down or timeline left and right. − − ====Removing Patterns==== − Use the BACK encoder to select the track. − Use the SELECT encoder to select the time at which the pattern starts. − Short press the SELECT encoder to remove the pattern. − − Notes may also be removed by clicking on the pattern within the grid if you have a pointing device. − − ====Adding Tracks==== − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Add track" menu option. A new track is added to the end of the track list. − − ====Removing Tracks==== − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Add track" menu option. A new track is added to the end of the track list. − − ====Controlling Playback==== − Short press the SNAPSHOT encoder to start playback of the song. The song will resume playback from its previously stopped step. Playback will continue to run even if playhead passes beyond the end of the last pattern. − Short press the SNAPSHOT encoder to pause playback. − Bold press the SNAPSHOT encoder to stop playback and / or recue to start of song. − − Playback may also be controlled with a pointing device by pressing the start / pause and stop / recue buttons in the topbar. − − Playback may also be controlled via external MIDI transport control (start, stop, continue, locate). − − ====Time Divisions==== − The timeline is quantised to _time divisions_. This is the minimum step that may be navigated / pattern positioned. − A user may wish to use the concept of bars (or other larger time divisions). This is presented by the display of vertical lines. By default the time divisions per bar 16. This may be adjusted from 1 to 999. This setting also defines the _sync point_ for live playout, i.e. the time at which a pattern will start playing after being triggered. − − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Bar / sync" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to adjust the quantity of time division per marker. The vertical grid lines move to match. − − ====Transpose **NOT YET IMPLEMENTED**==== − All notes within a song may be transposed. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Transpose pattern" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to move all notes up or down. − Note: This setting is at song level. Patterns are not individually transposed. Playback is transposed. − − ====Vertical Zoom==== − By default up to 16 tracks are shown. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Vertical zoom" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to adjust the vertical zoom. The quantity of tracks change to match the vertical zoom value. − − ====Horizontal Zoom==== − By default 64 time divisions are shown. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Horizontal zoom" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to adjust the horizontal zoom. The quantity of columns change to match the horizontal zoom value. − ====MIDI channel====+ − Each track may be assigned a MIDI channel. − Use the BACK encoder to select the track. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "MIDI channel" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to adjust the MIDI channel between 1 and 16. The track title changes to show the MIDI channel in brackets. − ====Clocks Per Division====+ − By default each time division is 6 MIDI clock cycles. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Clocks per division" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to adjust the clocks per division. − ====Clear Song====+ − A song may be cleared of its content. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Clear song" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Short press the LAYER or SELECT encoder to clear song or short press BACK encoder to cancel. − − ====Copy Song==== − The currently selected song may be copied to another song location. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Copy song" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − − Short press the LAYER or SELECT encoder to overwrite pattern with previously selected song or short press BACK encoder to cancel. − − ====Tempo==== − Each song has a master track displayed along the bottom of the screen. The master track may have tempo changes added at any time during the song. By default songs have a tempo of 120 BPM. − Use the SELECT encoder to select the time at which to add a tempo change. The screen will scroll at left and right edges. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Tempo" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to select the tempo. − Short press the LAYER or SELECT encoder to add a tempo change to the selected song or short press BACK encoder to cancel. The tempo is displayed in the master track as red text below the timeline. − − ====Remove Tempo Marker==== − Tempo persists until the next _different_ tempo change. You cannot have consecutive tempo markers with the same value. − Use the SELECT encoder to select the time at which to remove tempo marker. The screen will scroll at left and right edges. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Tempo" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to adjust the tempo. The tempo marker changes and will disappear when it is the same as the previous tempo marker. − Short press BACK encoder to cancel. − − ===ZynPad=== − [[File:ZynPad.png|400px|right]] − ZynPad is a performance mode for the step sequencer. It presents a grid of pads that my be tapped to trigger sequences. Each pad may be a member of a mutually exclusive group where pressing a pad in the group will cause other group members to stop playing. Each group is allocated an alternating colour (blue / purple) and is identified by the first character of the pad name, e.g. A, B. C, etc. − A pad will start playing at the next _sync point_, e.g. at the end of the current bar. This maintains synchronisation between sequences (assuming the sequences have been programmed to be synchronous). − − ====Playing ZynPad==== − Each pad has a colour which indicates its group. Odd groups are blue whilst even groups are purple. − Click a pad to start the pad's sequence running. If the transport is not running then it will be started and the sequence will begin immediately. If the transport is already running then the sequence will begin at the next _sync point_. − The pad will change to orange whilst it is waiting to start. − The pad will change to green whilst playing. − Click on a pad to stop the sequence playing. − The pad will change to red whilst waiting to stop. − The pad will change to blue or purple (depending on its group) when stopped. − Click a pad in a different group (with different first letter) will start that pad's sequence running synchronously with existing sequences, starting at the next _sync point_. − group will stop the currently playing sequence (from this group) and start that pad's sequence running synchronously with existing sequences, starting at the next _sync point_. − An icon on the pad indicates the play mode: − icon|Mode|Description − -|-|- − None|Disabled|No sequence will play − endnoline|Oneshot|Sequence will play only once, stopping immediately when pad clicked − loop|Loop|Sequence will play in a continuous loop, stopping immediately when pad clicked − end|Oneshot All|Sequence will play only once, stopping at next sync point after pad clicked − loopstop|Loop All|Sequence will play in a continuous loop, stopping at next sync point after pad clicked − − The play mode and sync point is set in the song editor. − − ====ZynPad _Song_ Selection==== − ZynPad is configured by the song editor. Each pad represents a track in a song. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Song" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to select the song. ZynPad changes to match the selected song. − Short press LAYER, SELECT to select song. − Short press BACK encoder to cancel. − The quantity of pads is defined by the quantity of tracks in the song. There will always be the same quantity of rows as columns. Extra pads required to fill grid (greater than quantity of tracks) are shown disabled. Text and icons scale to match pad size. − − ===MIDI Control=== − Zynthian step sequencer may be controlled by external MIDI controllers. − − ====Transport Control==== − MIDI START message will start playback of the currently selected song or the pattern in the pattern editor if shown, from the start of the song or sequence. − MIDI STOP message will stop (pause) playback of the currently selected song or the pattern in the pattern editor if shown. ZynPad sequences will also be stopped. − MIDI CONTINUE message will resume playback of the currently selected song or the pattern in the pattern editor if shown, from the point it was previously stopped (paused) of the song or sequence. − − ====Clock==== − To use an external MIDI clock to synchronise Zynthian: − Navigate to the _Admin_ page. − Disable _MIDI Clock Internal_. − Provide an external MIDI clock. − − Sequences will only play after receiving MIDI START / STOP / CONTINUE or being triggered from Zynthian user interface and will play at the rate of the external clock. 6 MIDI clock messages are sent for each _beat_. A beat is often considered to be a crotchet / quarter note. − − ====Trigger Sequence **NOT YET IMPLEMENTED**==== − Each sequence (pad) within ZynPad may be triggered by MIDI NOTE ON messages. Pads are triggered by sequential white notes, e.g. C4, D4, E4, etc. The MIDI channel is configurable. − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "MIDI channel" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to select the MIDI channel for external trigger. − Short press LAYER, SELECT to select channel. − Short press BACK encoder to cancel. − − Short press LAYER encoder displays a menu. − Select "Trigger note" menu option. The _parameter editor_ is displayed in the top bar. − Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to select the note number for external trigger of _first_ pad. − Short press LAYER, SELECT to select note. − Short press BACK encoder to cancel. − − ==Admin Menu== − − [[File:Zynthian_ui_admin.png|400px|right]] − [[File:Zynthian_ui_admin_02.png|400px|right]] − − The Admin menu gives access to some configuration options (most of them also accessible from the webconf tool). Also includes basic testing options for audio and MIDI. − − You can access this menu from the Main menu. Line 795:
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Zynthian UI User Guide (oldstable-2109) (view source)
Revision as of 02:02, 30 July 2021
, 02:02, 30 July 2021→Controlling the UI with MIDI messages
[[File:zynthian_controllers.png|430px|right]]
[[File:zynthian_controllers.png|430px|right]]
The physical Zynthian UI is displayed on a display and controlled by 4 knobs (rotary-encoders with push-switches). You can also control the UI with a touch-display, a mouse or keyboard (computer keyboard or MIDI keyboard, both!)
The Zynthian UI is displayed on a display and controlled by 4 knobs (rotary-encoders with push-switches). You can also control the UI with a touch-display, a mouse or a keyboard (computer keyboard or MIDI keyboard, both!)
Anyway, the 4 knobs+switches are the primary control mechanism used to navigate the UI: selecting options on menus and adjust the instrument parameters. The knobs can act as assignable MIDI/OSC controllers for the instrument's parameters (frequently lots of them!). You can emulate the knob's behavior using the touch-display, but it's sub-optimal and accessing some features could be tricky.
Anyway, the 4 knobs+switches are the primary control mechanism used to navigate the UI: selecting options on menus and adjust the instrument parameters. The knobs can act as assignable MIDI/OSC controllers for the instrument's parameters (frequently lots of them!). You can emulate the knob's behavior using the touch-display, but it's sub-optimal and accessing some features could be tricky.
* '''bold-snapshot''': Load Snapshot menu
* '''bold-snapshot''': Load Snapshot menu
* '''long-layer''': ALSA Mixer app
* '''long-layer''': ALSA Mixer app
* '''long-back''': PANIC! All Notes Off
* '''long-back''': Admin menu
* '''long-snapshot''': Audio Recorder
* '''long-snapshot''': Step Sequencer
* '''long-select''': Power Off
* '''long-select''': Power Off
Note that in older versions of Zynthian OS long-back was bound to 'PANIC! All Notes Off'. It is now recommended you bind this to S1-4.
<br clear=all>
<br clear=all>
<gallery mode="slideshow" widths="240" heights="320">
<gallery mode="slideshow" widths="240" heights="320">
Image:zynthian_ui_workflow__main.png|''[[commons:Main Sequence|Main Sequence]]''
Image:zynthian_ui_workflow_main.png|''[[commons:Main Sequence|Main Sequence]]''
Image:zynthian_ui_workflow__layer_options.png|''[[commons:Layer Options|Layer Options]]''
Image:zynthian_ui_workflow_layer_options.png|''[[commons:Layer Options|Layer Options]]''
Image:zynthian_ui_workflow__snapshots.png|''[[commons:Snapshots|Snapshots]]''
Image:zynthian_ui_workflow_snapshots.png|''[[commons:Snapshots|Snapshots]]''
Image:zynthian_ui_workflow__midi_learning.png|''[[commons:MIDI Learning|MIDI Learning]]''
Image:zynthian_ui_workflow_midi_learning.png|''[[commons:MIDI Learning|MIDI Learning]]''
</gallery>
</gallery>
==Layers==
==Layers==
Layers are a key concept on Zynthian-UI: the first thing you do when you power-on your zynthian is, probably, create a layer.
Layers are a key concept on Zynthian-UI: the first thing you do after poweron your zynthian is, probably, create a layer.
A layer is an '''Audio Processing Chain''', normally assigned to a MIDI channel, which can be composed of one or more Audio Processing Units. These units are chained in the same order they are created, but you can change the order from the '''Layer Options''' menu. The first unit in a layer is the '''root''' and it determines the layer's type:
A layer is a '''Processing Chain''', normally assigned to a MIDI channel, which can be composed of one or more Audio or MIDI Processing Units. These units are chained in the same order they are created, but you can change the order from the '''Layer Options''' menu. The first unit in a layer is the '''root''' and it determines the layer's type:
* '''Synth Layer''' => Receives MIDI note-events and generate audio output.
* '''Synth Layer''' => Receives MIDI note-events and generate audio output.
* '''FX Layer''' => Receives audio-input and generates audio-output.
* '''Audio FX Layer''' => Receives audio-input and generates audio-output.
* '''MIDI FX Layer''' => Receives MIDI-input and generates MIDI-output.
* '''Generator Layer''' => Auto-generate audio output using an algorithm.
* '''Generator Layer''' => Auto-generate audio output using an algorithm.
* '''Special Layer''' => MOD-UI pedalboard, Pure Data patch, etc.
* '''Special Layer''' => MOD-UI pedalboard, Pure Data patch, etc.
The rest of units in a layer are usually FX units which process the audio coming from the first unit (root).
The root layer can't be re-arranged or changed. When you create pure Audio-FX layers, it's a good idea to use a "Gain" unit as root element, so you can re-arrange/change all the other elements on the chain.
All units in a layer receive all the MIDI events coming from the assigned channel. Some special layers (MOD-UI) don't have an assigned MIDI channel and receive all MIDI channels.
All units in a layer's chain receive all the MIDI events coming from the assigned channel. Some special layers (MOD-UI) don't have an assigned MIDI channel and receive all MIDI channels.
You can access the Layer screen:
You can access the Layer screen:
[[File:Zynthian_ui_new_layer.png|400px|right]]
[[File:Zynthian_ui_new_layer.png|400px|right]]
There are several options on layers screen:
There are several options on the layers screen:
* '''NEW Synth Layer''' => Create a new Synthesizer Layer.
* '''NEW Synth Layer''' => Create a Synthesizer Layer.
* '''NEW Effect Layer''' => Create a new Effect Layer that will be connected to soundcard's Audio Input. You can route the audio from other layers to an Effect Layer.
* '''NEW Audio-FX Layer''' => Create an audio-FX Layer that will be connected to soundcard's Audio Capture. You can route the audio output from other layers to the input of an Audio-FX layer.
* '''NEW Generator Layer''' => Create a new Generator Layer that self-generates audio or midi.
* '''NEW MIDI-FX Layer''' => Create a MIDI-FX Layer to process MIDI events. You can route the MIDI output from a MIDI-FX layer to the MIDI input of any other unit or to the zynthian's MIDI output.
* '''NEW Generator Layer''' => Create a new Generator Layer that self-generates audio.
* '''NEW Special Layer''' => Create a new Special Layer (MOD-UI, Pure Data, ...).
* '''NEW Special Layer''' => Create a new Special Layer (MOD-UI, Pure Data, ...).
* '''REMOVE ALL''' => Remove all Layers & Effects, returning to the initial state.
* '''REMOVE ALL''' => Remove all Layers & Effects, returning to the initial state.
[[File:Zynthian_ui_layer_options.png|400px|right]]
[[File:Zynthian_ui_layer_options.png|400px|right]]
[[File:Zynthian_ui_layer_options2.png|400px|right]]
If you bold-click the select switch over a layer from the list, the "Layer Options" menu will be displayed for the selected layer. This menu allows you to:
If you bold-click the select switch over a layer from the list, the "Layer Options" menu will be displayed for the selected layer. This menu allows you to:
* '''Clone MIDI to...''' => clone the '''layer's MIDI channel''' messages to other MIDI channels. Note that only note on/off, pitch-bending, and key-press messages are cloned, while the rest are kept independent by default (CC, channel-pressure, program change, ...). You can select what CC will be cloned by bold-clicking on the channel list.
* '''Clone MIDI to...''' => Clone the '''layer's MIDI channel''' messages to other MIDI channels. Note that only note on/off, pitch-bending, and key-press messages are cloned, while the rest are kept independent by default (CC, channel-pressure, program change, ...). You can select what CC will be cloned by bold-clicking on the channel list.
* '''Transpose''' => transpose the '''layer's MIDI channel''' up and down, by semitones.
* '''Transpose''' => Transpose the '''layer's MIDI channel''' up and down, by semitones.
* '''Audio Routing''' => route the '''layer's''' audio output to the available audio input ports, allowing to process the audio in almost any way you can imagine. You can use this feature for creating your own customized/bizarre FX chains. If this is not enough for you, try MOD-UI engine with the MOD-UI web GUI.
* '''Audio Output''' => Route the '''layer's''' audio output to any available audio input port, allowing to process the audio in almost any way you can imagine. You can use this feature for creating your own customized/bizarre FX chains. If this is not enough for you, try MOD-UI engine with the MOD-UI web GUI. This option is not available on MIDI-FX layers.
* '''MIDI chan''' => change the MIDI Channel assigned.
* '''Audio Capture''' => Select the soundcard's capture channels used for audio processing. This option is only available on Audio-FX layers.
* '''Remove Layer''' => Remove the layer.
* '''MIDI Routing''' => Select the destiny of the layer's MIDI output. This option is only available on MIDI-FX layers.
* '''MIDI Channel''' => Change the assigned MIDI Channel.
* '''Remove Layer''' => Remove the layer, including all chained Audio & MIDI FXs.
* '''Add Audio-FX''' => Add an Audio-FX unit to the layer's audio chain.
* '''Remove All AUdio-FX''' => Clean the Audio-FX chain, deleting all the audio effect units.
* '''Audio-FX List''' => The list of audio effects on the layer's chain.
* '''Add MIDI-FX''' => Add a MIDI-FX to the layer's chain. If the layer is a Synth layer, the MIDI-FX will be inserted just before the synth engine.
* '''Remove All MIDI-FX''' => Clean the MIDI-FX chain, deleting all the MIDI effect units.
* '''MIDI-FX List''' => The list of MIDI effects on the layer's chain.
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[[File:Zynthian_ui_layer_effect_options.png|400px|right]]
[[File:Zynthian_ui_layer_effect_options.png|400px|right]]
By bold-clicking on an effect from the list, you will access the Effect's Options:
By bold-clicking on an FX-unit (Audio or MIDI) from the list, you will access the FX's Options:
* '''Replace Effect'''
* '''Replace FX'''
* '''Effect Presets'''
* '''Effect Presets'''
* '''Move Upchain'''
* '''Move Upchain'''
* '''Move Downchain'''
* '''Move Downchain'''
* '''Remove Effect'''
* '''Remove FX'''
Note that not all these options will be available all the time. For instance, if there is only one effect in the chain, "Move" options won't be shown. Same if the FX has not presets, etc.
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You can return to the control screen directly, without selecting any preset, by clicking '''bold-back'''. In that case, the previously selected instrument will be restored in case you pre-loaded some preset.
You can return to the control screen directly, without selecting any preset, by clicking '''bold-back'''. In that case, the previously selected instrument will be restored in case you pre-loaded some preset.
Use '''bold-select''' for adding a preset to your favorites. You will see a little '''*''' at left. '''Bold-select''' again for removing the preset from favorites. For listing only your favorite presets, use '''bold-snapshot'''.
Use '''bold-select''' for adding a preset to your favorites. You will see a little '''*''' at left. '''Bold-select''' again for removing the preset from favorites. For listing only your favorite presets, click '''snapshot'''.
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====MIDI Program Change: ZS3 (SubSnapShots)====
====MIDI Program Change & ZS3 (SubSnapShots)====
[[File:Zynthian_ui_midi_zs3_learn.png|400px|right]]
[[File:Zynthian_ui_midi_zs3_learn.png|400px|right]]
A ZS3 (SubSnapShot) saves the state of the active layer in the context of the current snapshot (layer layout). When recalled, the saved state is restored and the active layer is changed.
A ZS3 (SubSnapShot) saves the state of the active layer in the context of the current snapshot (layer layout). When recalled, the saved state is restored and the active layer is changed.
Once a set of layers has been created (i.e. loading a snapshot), ZS3 loading is very fast in comparison with loading snapshots, as no engine have to be started. It take less than 1 second in most of cases, and you can map ZS3s to MIDI programs very easily using MIDI learning.
Once a set of layers has been created (i.e. loading a snapshot), ZS3 loading is very fast in comparison with loading snapshots, as no engine have to be started. It take less than 1 second in most of cases, and you can map ZS3s to MIDI programs very easily using MIDI learning.
The idea behind this feature is to have a fast preset-change mechanism that can be used on stage. In combination with the “Single Active Layer” feature, it turns Zynthian into a “Stage-Beast”. You can prepare a snapshot for the full performance, and use ZS3s for fast changes from a song to another, or between parts inside the same song.
The idea behind this feature is to have a fast preset-change mechanism that can be used on stage. In combination with the “Stage Mode” feature, it turns Zynthian into a “Stage-Beast”. You can prepare a snapshot for the full performance, and use ZS3s for fast changes from a song to another, or between parts inside the same song.
Learning to create a SubSnapShot is obscenely easy:
Learning to create a SubSnapShot is obscenely easy:
'''1.''' From the Control screen, click the snapshot button '''twice'''. You will see the current list of ZS3s and a message: “Waiting for Program Change…”
'''1.''' From the Control screen, click the snapshot button '''twice'''. You will see the current list of ZS3s (initially empty) and a message: “Waiting for Program Change…”
'''2.''' Push a “Program Change” button in your keyboard/controller and the ZS3 will be stored in memory, associated with the Program Number you selected.
'''2.''' Push a “Program Change” button in your keyboard/controller and the ZS3 will be stored in memory, associated with the Program Number you pushed on your keyboard/controller.
After that, you can recall the stored ZS3 by pushing the same Program Change button again. Of course, stored ZS3s will be saved with your snapshot and restored on load.
After that, you can recall the stored ZS3 by pushing the same Program Change button again. Of course, stored ZS3s will be saved with your snapshot and restored on load.
You can update and delete stored ZS3s by bold-clicking on the list. An options menu will be shown with both options.
You can update and delete stored ZS3s by bold-clicking on the list.
ZS3 behavior depends of the "Single Active Layer" option:
ZS3 behavior depends of the mode your zynthian is working on:
* '''Single Active Layer Enabled''': ZS3 list shows all the ZS3s stored, no matter the layer. Recalling a ZS3 changes the active layer, so the layer associated with the recalled ZS3 will receive *ALL* the MIDI input. Only 127 ZS3s can be stored.
* '''Stage Mode''': ZS3 list shows all the ZS3s stored, no matter the layer. Recalling a ZS3 changes the active layer, so the layer associated with the recalled ZS3 will receive *ALL* the MIDI input. Only 127 ZS3s can be stored.
* '''Single Active Layer Disabled''': ZS3 list shows only the ZS3 of the currently active layer. Recalling a ZS3 changes the active layer, but every layer receives MIDI input for its channel only. You can use several keyboards on different channels and store 127 ZS3s by MIDI channel.
* '''Multi-timbral Mode''': ZS3 list shows the ZS3 of the currently active layer only. Recalling a ZS3 changes the active layer, but every layer receives MIDI input from its channel. You can use several keyboards on different channels and store 127 ZS3s by MIDI channel.
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[[File:zynthian_ui_audio_recorder.png|400px|right]]
[[File:zynthian_ui_audio_recorder.png|400px|right]]
[[File:zynthian_ui_midi_recorder.png|400px|right]]
[[File:zynthian_ui_midi_recorder.png|400px|right]]
===Overview===
These simple tools allow you to record Audio & MIDI tracks easily, using the internal SD-card or an USB memory stick for storing the files.
These simple tools allow you to record Audio & MIDI tracks easily, using the internal SD-card or an USB memory stick for storing the files.
It's also used when you want a quick way to upload sound samples to websites via the webconf component detailed below...
Most sites would prefer you to upload compressed files and oggs are perhaps the way forward . . .
For accessing the Audio & MIDI recording tools:
For accessing the Audio & MIDI recording tools:
'''WARNING!''' Using the internal SD card to store the captured files will increase the risk of corruption. You should use a USB memory stick instead.
'''WARNING!''' Using the internal SD card to store the captured files will increase the risk of corruption. You should use a [[External storage|USB memory stick]] instead.
===Recording===
===Recording===
===Managing recordings from your computer===
===Managing recordings from your computer===
[[File:Zynthian_webconf_captures_02.png|600px|border|right]]
[[File:Zynthian_webconf_captures_02.png|400px|border|right]]
Audio & MIDI recordings can be managed from your computer by accessing the webconf's captures section. From this section you can:
Audio & MIDI recordings can be managed from your computer by accessing the webconf's captures section. From this section you can:
* rename recordings
* rename recordings
* delete recordings
* delete recordings
* convert audio recordings to .ogg format
* convert audio recordings to .ogg format for upload to websites.
* downloading recordings to your computer
* downloading recordings to your computer
* reproduce the audio recordings in your browser. If .wav files doesn't work in your browser, try converting to ogg.
* reproduce the audio recordings in your browser. If .wav files doesn't work in your browser, try converting to ogg.
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==ALSA Mixer==
==Audio Levels==
[[File:zynthian_ui_mixer_control.png|400px|right]]
[[File:zynthian_ui_mixer_control.png|400px|right]]
The '''ALSA Mixer''' app is a pseudo-layer that allows to adjust the soundcard output/input levels and other audio-hardware related options. Technically speaking, it's a user interface for the ALSA (Audio Linux Sound Architecture) mixer.
The '''Audio Levels''' screen allows to adjust the soundcard output/input levels and other audio-hardware related options. Technically speaking, it's a GUI for the ALSA (Audio Linux Sound Architecture) mixer.
For accessing the '''ALSA-Mixer''' app, you have 2 options:
For accessing the '''ALSA-Mixer''' app, you have 2 options:
* Selecting "ALSA-Mixer" option from the Main menu
* Selecting "Audio Levels" option from the Main menu
* '''Long-pushing the layer knob (CTRL-1)'''
* '''Long-pushing the snapshot knob (CTRL-3)'''
You can configure the mixer controllers from the webconf's hardware->audio menu. Simply click the '''+''' button on the "Mixer Controls" text area.
You can configure the Audio Level controllers from the webconf's hardware->audio menu. Simply click the '''+''' button on the "Mixer Controls" text area.
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==Step Sequencer==
==Step Sequencer==
Zynthian has a step sequencer which provides:
Zynthian has a step sequencer which provides methods to create patterns and arrange them into sequences.
The step sequencer may be accessed from the main screen or by clicking long-LAYER.
* There may be up to 999 patterns, each with as many simultaneous notes (polphonic) as required over a set of steps and beats that are configurable for each pattern.
* Patterns are arranged into tracks within sequences.
* Sequences may be configured to loop or play once and may be grouped so that starting one sequence stops another. Sequences may start and stop at the start of each bar.
* Note entry can be performed from the Zynthian user interface or using an external MIDI controller.
* Sequences can be started and stopped from the Zynthian user interface or using an external MIDI controller.
These are three main views:
[[File:Zynpad 4x4 playing starting.png|400px|right]]
'''Pads'''<br>
Grid of pads to launch sequences
===Parameter Editor===
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[[File:Arranger.png|400px|right]]
'''Arranger'''<br>
Track / timeline editor for complex manipulation of sequences
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[[File:Zynseq patterneditor notevelocity.png|400px|right]]
'''Pattern Editor'''<br>
Manipulation of individual events within patterns
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[[Using ZynSeq]] is a detailed tutorial on the use of the step sequencer.
[[File:PatternEditor.png|400px|right]]
==Admin Menu==
[[File:Zynthian_ui_admin.png|400px|right]]
[[File:Zynthian_ui_admin_02.png|400px|right]]
The Admin menu gives access to some configuration options (most of them also accessible from the webconf tool). Also includes basic testing options for audio and MIDI.
You can access this menu from the Main menu.
====Removing Notes====
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===Touchscreen Calibration===
Zynthian supports touchscreen operation for most operations. To ensure good alignment of the touch interface there is a calibration screen that is accessed from the Admin menu.
[[File:Touchscreen_calibration_1.png|400px|right]]
When the screen opens it shows a target crosshair in the center of the screen and a countdown timer. If the timer expires the screen will close without applying any calibration. Touch the target to detect the screen and begin calibration.
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[[File:Touchscreen_calibration_2.png|400px|right]]
The name of the detected display is shown at the bottom of the screen. Further targets will appear. Touch the screen, drag to centre of target and release.
When the screen is pressed the target will show red. When released the measurement is taken and the next crosshair target appears white.
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[[File:Touchscreen_calibration_3.png|400px|right]]
After releasing the last target, calibration is applied and the screen closes. Touch is ignored if too close to previous touch.
Use BACK button or wait for timeout to cancel calibration. Timer is reset to 15s when screen is touched and paused until released. The purpose of the timeout is to avoid users of Zynthians without back button being stuck in calibration screen view.
Use the LAYER or SELECT encoder to select the song to copy the previous song to. The title and grid change to show the song that will be overwritten.
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==Key Bindings: Controlling the UI with a computer keyboard==
==Key Bindings: Controlling the UI with a computer keyboard==
The user interface may be driven using a USB keyboard, e.g. QWERTY, Dvorak, etc.
The user interface may be driven using a USB keyboard, e.g. QWERTY, Dvorak, etc. Key assignment and their combinations can be modified with the webconf tool.
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Keyboard shortcuts
|-
! Action !! Modifier !! Key
|-
|-
| ALL_NOTES_OFF || None|| Space
|-
|-
|Enter||None||SELECT
| ALL_OFF || Ctrl || Space
|-
|-
|Enter||Shift||Bold SELECT
| ALL_SOUNDS_OFF || Shift || Space
|-
|-
|Enter||Ctrl||Long SELECT
| BACK_DOWN || CapsLock || Down
|-
|-
|Backspace||None||BACK
| BACK_UP || CapsLock || Up
|-
|-
|Backspace||Shift||Bold BACK
| LAYER_DOWN || Shift || Down
|-
|-
|Backspace||Ctrl||Long BACK
| LAYER_UP || Shift || Down
|-
|-
|Escape||None||BACK
| POWER_OFF || Ctrl || End
|-
|-
|Escape||Shift||Bold BACK
| REBOOT || Ctrl || Home
|-
|-
|Escape||Ctrl||Long BACK
| RELOAD_MIDI_CONFIG || Ctrl || Insert
|-
|-
|L||None||LAYER
| RESTART_UI || Shift || Home
|-
|-
|L||Shift||Bold LAYER
| SELECT_DOWN || None || Down
|-
|-
|L||Ctrl||Long LAYER
| SELECT_UP || None || Up
|-
|-
|S||None||SNAPSHOT
| SNAPSHOT_DOWN || Ctrl || Down
|-
|-
|S||Shift||Bold SNAPSHOT
| SNAPSHOT_UP || Ctrl || Up
|-
|-
|S||Ctrl||Long SNAPSHOT
| START_AUDIO_PLAY || Ctrl || a
|-
|-
|A||None||Start audio Record
| START_AUDIO_RECORD || None || a
|-
|-
|A||Shift||Stop audio Record
| START_MIDI_PLAY || Ctrl || m
|-
|-
|A||Alt||Toggle audio Record
| START_MIDI_RECORD || None || m
|-
|-
|A||Ctrl||Start audio Play
| STOP_AUDIO_PLAY || Ctrl+Shift|| a
|-
|-
|A||Ctrl+Shift||Stop audio Play
| STOP_AUDIO_RECORD || Shift || a
|-
|-
|M||None||Start MIDI Record
| STOP_MIDI_PLAY || Ctrl+Shift || m
|-
|-
|M||Shift||Stop MIDI Record
| STOP_MIDI_RECORD || Shift || m
|-
|-
|M||Ctrl||Start MIDI Play
| SWITCH_BACK_BOLD || Shift || BackSpace, Escape, Left
|-
|-
|M||Ctrl+Shift||Stop MIDI Play
| SWITCH_BACK_LONG || Ctrl || BackSpace, Escape, Left
|-
|-
|Space||None||All Notes Off
| SWITCH_BACK_SHORT || None || BackSpace, Escape, Left
|-
|-
|Space||Shift||All Sounds Off
| SWITCH_LAYER_BOLD || Shift|| l
|-
|-
|Space||Ctrl||All off
| SWITCH_LAYER_LONG || Ctrl || l
|-
|-
|Home||Shift||Restart UI
| SWITCH_LAYER_SHORT || None|| l
|-
|-
|Insert||Ctrl||Reload MIDI Config
| SWITCH_SELECT_BOLD || Shift || Return, Right
|-
|-
|Home||Ctrl||Reboot
| SWITCH_SELECT_LONG || Ctrl || Return, Right
|-
|-
|End||Ctrl||Power Off
| SWITCH_SELECT_SHORT || None || Return, Right
|-
|-
|Up||None||Listbox Up
| SWITCH_SNAPSHOT_BOLD || Shift || s
|-
|-
|Down||None||Listbox Down
| SWITCH_SNAPSHOT_LONG || Ctrl || s
|-
|-
|Left||None||BACK
| SWITCH_SNAPSHOT_SHORT || None || s
|-
|-
|Right||None||SELECT
| TOGGLE_AUDIO_PLAY || CapsLock+Shift || a
|-
| TOGGLE_AUDIO_RECORD || CapsLock || a
|-
| TOGGLE_MIDI_PLAY || CapsLock+Shift || m
|-
| TOGGLE_MIDI_RECORD || CapsLock || m
|}
|}
==Controlling the UI with MIDI messages==
==Controlling the UI with MIDI messages==
or play the C-1 key, if your keyboard has it.
or play the C-1 key, if your keyboard has it.
This is the full list:
Note that you can use the velocity for sending the CUIA parameter when it's required by the action (SELECT & LAYER_CONTROL).
This is the full map of CUIA to MIDI notes:
'''Num''' '''CUIA''' '''Note''' '''System Real-Time'''
'''Num''' '''CUIA''' '''Note''' '''System Real-Time'''
2 RESTART_UI D-1
2 RESTART_UI D-1
3 RELOAD_MIDI_CONFIG D#-1
3 RELOAD_MIDI_CONFIG D#-1
4 RELOAD_KEY_CONFIG E-1
4 RELOAD_KEY_BINDING E-1
5 LAST_STATE_ACTION F-1
10 ALL_NOTES_OFF A#-1
10 ALL_NOTES_OFF A#-1
52 SELECT_UP E3
52 SELECT_UP E3
53 SELECT_DOWN F3
53 SELECT_DOWN F3
54 BACK_UP F#3
55 BACK_DOWN G3
56 LAYER_UP G#3
57 LAYER_DOWN A3
58 SNAPSHOT_UP A#3
59 SNAPSHOT_DOWN B3
64 SWITCH_BACK_SHORT E4
64 SWITCH_BACK_SHORT E4
73 SWITCH_SNAPSHOT_LONG C#5
73 SWITCH_SNAPSHOT_LONG C#5
80 SCREEN_ADMIN G#5
80 SCREEN_MAIN G#5
81 SCREEN_LAYER A5
81 SCREEN_LAYER A5
82 SCREEN_BANK A#5
82 SCREEN_BANK A#5
94 MODAL_ALSA_MIXER A#6
94 MODAL_ALSA_MIXER A#6
95 MODAL_STEPSEQ B6
95 MODAL_STEPSEQ B6
96 MODAL_ADMIN C7
100 LAYER_CONTROL E7
[[File:2Oct_Keyboard_CUIA.png|600px|Keyboard]]
[[File:2Oct_Keyboard_CUIA.png|600px|Keyboard]]
[[File:Midi-note-chart.jpg]]
[[File:Midi-note-chart.jpg]]
==Controlling the UI with OSC messages==
The same CUIA calls are available using OSC on UDP 1370, with the base prefix "/cuia". Take a look to "[[Accessing_Zynthian_from_your_computer#OSC|Calling CUIA with OSC]]".