VSampler 3 Start Up and Basics

Users Manual

Start Up and Basics

Introduction

1998-2004 Speedsoft Audio Tools GmbH, Dbeln, Germany All rights reserved Stand: 26.03.2004
Products made by the following companies are mentioned solely for information purposes. Microsoft, Microsoft Windows, DirectX, DirectSound, WDM Microsoft Corporation Cubase, Cubase SX, Steinberg, VST, ASIO, HALion, LM4 Steinberg Media Technologies AG Cakewalk, Sonar, DXi Twelve Tone Systems, Inc. Emagic, Logic Emagic Soft- und Hardware GmbH Battery, Kontakt, Kompakt, Intakt NATIVE INSTRUMENTS Software Synthesis GmbH Sound Blaster, EAX, Audigy, Live!, E-MU Creative Technology Ltd. ACID, Soundforge Sonic Foundry, Inc. Reason, ReBirth, ReWire, ReCycle, REX Propellerhead Software AB Ogg, Vorbis Xiph.Org FLAC GPL/LGPL All software and hardware terms not specified, as well as brand names, are registered trade marks or trade marks of their respective owners.

License agreement

In the following, software designates the program VSampler contained in the packaging, including the manual, Soundlibraries and purchased registration key. Manufacturer designates the company Speedsoft. The buyer acquires the non-exclusive right from the manufacturer to use the software for an unlimited period of time on a suitable computer. With the opening of the CD packaging, the buyer agrees to the following license agreement: The buyer is entitled to resell the software, to install the software on one computer per purchased license and to make backup copies of the software for personal use. The buyer is not entitled to keep backup copies of the software after sale, to rent or lend the software, to manufacture or distribute copies of the software, or to change the software (with exception of the Soundlibraries) in any way. The software has been produced with the utmost care. Buyer and manufacturer agree that it is not possible to develop an absolutely error-free software for all applicable conditions. The manufacturer will repair known software bugs as quickly as possible. The suitability of the software for a specific purpose is not guaranteed by the manufacturer. The buyer is not entitled to compensation in the case of a defect, except in states where liability exclusion is not permissible. In any case, liability is limited to the amount of the purchase price. Liability for consequential damages is excluded. The customer is responsible for the storage and back-up of their data. Venue for all disputes related to the software is the state court of the company location of MAZ at the time of the dispute. Applicable law is the one of the Federal Republic of Germany. Should any provision of this agreement contravene valid law all other provisions will continue in full force and effect.
Make sure to back up your data. A power failure, a program crash or a virus can destroy your files. Make sure that you regularly back up important data such as Soundlibraries and song files, and keep these in a safe place, preferably outside of your computer at an external data medium. This also applies to your serial number.

Warning

Due to the variety of VSamplers control possibilities, unexpected high signal levels can occur that can harm both your hearing and your equipment if the playback level is too loud. Please do not turn up your amp any louder than is comfortable for you to listen to at the highest digital output level (0 dB in the VSampler mixer).

Table of Contents

1 1.1 1.2 1.3 Introduction...9
Welcome!...9 About this Manual...11 Setting Up Your System...12 1.3.1 Minimum system requirements..12 1.3.2 Recommended system requirements..12 1.3.3 Installation...13 1.3.4 Starting VSampler..16 1.4 Registration...16 1.4.1 Restricted demo-mode...16 1.4.2 Registering the serial number online (once)..16 1.4.3 Inserting the registration key in VSampler..18 1.5 OEM Version vs. Independent Version..20 1.5.1 What does OEM-Version mean?..20 1.5.2 Restrictions of the OEM version..20 1.5.3 Free updates....21 1.5.4 Upgrade to the VSTi-DXi-ReWire-Standalone package.2.1 2.2 Start....23 Quickstart...23 Decision: Standalone, Plug-in or ReWire?...24 2.2.1 Standalone version..24 2.2.2 VSTi/DXi plug-in...25 2.2.3 ReWire....26 2.3 Standalone-Version...27 2.4 VSTi/DXi Plug-in...28 2.4.1 Setting up the VSTi plug-in in Cubase SX..29 2.4.2 Setting up the VSTi plug-in in Cubase VST..31 2.4.3 Setting up the DXi plug-in in Sonar..32 2.5 ReWire....3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 Graphic User Interface (GUI)..37 Typical Control Elements...37 Drag & Drop...40 Less is more....41 The Small View...43 3.4.1 Title bar and Status displays..44
Introduction 3.4.2 3.4.3 3.4.4 3.4.5 3.4.4.1 4.2 4.3 MIDI channel slots and controllers..45 Instruments Pool...48 Import Window...51 On-Screen Keyboard...55 Bank Manager...56

Operation....57

Supported Import Formats...57 Loading a Soundlibrary...58 Importing Instruments....59 4.3.1 Importing per menu item File | Import..60 4.3.2 Importing per drag & drop...60 4.3.3 Importing using the Import Window..60 4.3.4 Importing from the Bank Manager..64 4.4 Assigning Instruments to MIDI Channels..65 4.4.1 The MIDI channels padlock symbol..65 4.4.2 Decision: Assign Instruments in Sequencer or in VSampler?.66 4.4.3 Assigning MIDI channels in the sequencer..66 4.4.4 Assigning MIDI channels in VSampler..67 4.4.5 Troubleshooting: no sound when playing the keyboard?.68 4.5 Using Separate Outputs...70 4.5.1 Display of the assigned output devices...71 4.5.2 Assigning Instruments to output devices..72 4.5.3 Assigning Samples to individual outputs (DXi, VSTi, ReWire).73 4.6 Recommended Working Methods and Organization..74 4.6.1 General tips...74 4.6.2 Settings....74 4.6.3 Basis for working efficiently...75 4.6.4 Assembling the song-specific Soundlibrary..5.1 Important General Settings...77 Setting Up Audio Devices...77 5.1.1 Standalone version..77 5.1.2 VSTi, DXi, ReWire...79 5.2 Setting Up Individual Outputs...80 5.2.1 Standalone version..80 5.2.2 VSTi, DXi, ReWire...80 5.2.3 Plug-in: changing the number of outputs in a project.82 5.3 Setting Up MIDI Devices..83 5.3.1 Connecting to a MIDI keyboard...83 5.3.2 Setting up the virtual MIDI cable..84
VSampler 3 Start Up and Basics 5.4 Optimizing Performance...86 5.4.1 Setting the Resampling quality...86 5.4.2 Limiting polyphony - background..87 5.4.3 Limiting polyphony - implementation..89 5.4.4 Optimizing DRC...90 5.5 Decision: Linked or Embedded Samples?..93 5.5.1 Comparison....93 5.5.2 Recommendation...96 5.5.3 Automatic search for not-found Samples..96 5.6 Decision: Save the Library in the host project?..97 5.6.1 Project-oriented: saving the Bank in the host project.98 5.6.2 Soundlibrary-oriented: saving in a.VS3 file..98 5.6.3 Recommendation...98 5.7 Adjusting the keyboard velocity...6.1 6.2 Basics....100 What is a Sampler?...100 MIDI and Sequencer....101 6.2.1 The classic MIDI cable...101 6.2.2 The sequencer....101 6.2.3 The 16 MIDI channels...102 6.2.4 Sequencer tracks vs. MIDI channels..103 Frequencies, Bits and Floating Points...104 6.3.1 Sampling Frequency..106 6.3.2 Bit depth...107 6.3.3 Zero clipping thanks to floating point processing..107 The Structure of a VSampler Soundlibrary..108 6.4.1 Soundlibrary...109 6.4.2 Instrument...109 6.4.3 Zone....110 6.4.4 Sample...111 6.4.5 Multi...112 Dynamic Resource Control (DRC)..112 6.5.1 The advantage....112 6.5.2 Instrument level (DRC 1)...112 6.5.3 Sample level (DRC 2)...113 6.5.4 Maximum size of Instruments..113 Polyphony...114 6.6.1 The more, the.?...114 6.6.2 Counting Voices...114 Archiving and Internet Exchange of Soundlibraries..115

Please follow the instructions of the setup program as described below: Step 1 Choose the language for the GUI (Graphic User Interface) and Help texts. Step 2 Read the VSampler 3 license agreement and accept it if you agree to it (necessary for installation). Step 3 If youre interested, read the quick information of the latest version Step 4
Revolutions per minute: The more revolutions, the faster data can be continuously read. 13
Introduction Choose the directory on your hard disk where you want VSampler to be installed the directory of a previously installed earlier version will be recognized automatically and suggested. If you have previously installed an earlier version of VSampler 3 on your hard disk, please select the same directory. This guarantees that VSampler will retain all of your settings, and that no orphaned VSampler data will be left stranded on your hard drive.
Step 5 Choose the components which you wish to install.
The first two options (at least) should be selected. Exception: The current version of VSampler is already installed, and you just want to add one of the other options. The lower options are for selecting how VSampler should connect with your sequencer. Select the appropriate variation(s). You can find a list of popular synthesizers and the preferable way of connecting each to VSampler in section 2.2 on page 24.
VSampler 3 Start Up and Basics VSTi plug-in, ReWire and the virtual MIDI cable can also be installed by owners of a VSampler 3.0 OEM registration key. They will then be available in the restricted demo-version, and can be tested thoroughly. If you like, you can purchase an upgrade including VSTi plug-in and Standalone version (incl. ReWire and the virtual MIDI cable), see 1.5. OEM Version vs. Independent Version on page 20. Note about the VSTi plug-in: Please check whether VSamplers VST plug-in directory shows the correct VST plug-ins directory, i.e. the one that your sequencer actually uses. Otherwise change it with the Browse button. Note about the Speedsoft virtual MIDI cable: If this is installed, a MIDI output to VSampler will appear throughout Windows (i.e. in every MIDI sequencer). It is only necessary to install this if your sequencer supports neither VSTi/DXi plug-ins, nor sending MIDI data per ReWire. For more information, see 2.2.1. on page 24. Step 6 Choose the type of files which should be associated with VSampler. This means, whenever you click one of these files in the Explorer, it will be automatically loaded in VSampler (see the tip at the end of this section). Step 7 Click Start Install to complete the installation.
Tip about associating file types with VSampler: The files can still be opened with any other (appropriate) program. You can also change the association of the file type at any time: in the Explorer, click with the right mouse button on a file whose association you wish to change, and select open with and then select program select the program from the list select the option Always open file with this program and click OK 15

Original Equipment Manufacturer
VSampler 3 Start Up and Basics package on page 21 you can find the exact listing of the additionally available features. Whenever one of these features is mentioned in the manual, it will be marked by this symbol.
1.5.3 Free updates Updates to the OEM version provided with the Sonar 3 Producer package, can be downloaded from Cakewalk in the form of patches. Updates can also be downloaded from www.vsampler.com. The latest VSampler 3.x update for all VSampler 3 versions can be downloaded at www.vsampler.com This download is suitable for updating all versions of VSampler 3. This way, users of the OEM version can test the VSTi plug-in and Standalone version of VSampler in the restricted demo-mode (see section 1.4.1. on page 16). VSampler automatically recognizes the previously installed version, and retains all of its settings. This also includes the registration level, i.e. the registration key (for either the OEM version or the full VSTi-DXi-ReWire-Standalone package) determines which features will be activated. All future improvements and bug fixes of existing features of VSampler 3.0 DXi will of course be free for users of the OEM version as well. This is also valid for numerous new features which have been added in VSampler 3.1, but not for all of them: 1.5.4 Upgrade to the VSTi-DXi-ReWire-Standalone package If you wish to add features, which are not offered by Cakewalk as a free update to the VSampler OEM version, or if you would like to use the VSTi plug-in, ReWire or Standalone version of VSampler, no problem. The upgrade can be purchased at the online-shop of www.vsampler.com at a reasonable price. It includes the following features, in addition to those of the OEM version.
Introduction VSTi, ReWire, Standalone, virtual MIDI cable Users of the full VSTi-DXi-ReWire-Standalone package can use VSampler and its Soundlibraries with identical sound in almost any sequencer: as a VSTi plug-in, inside of e.g. Nuendo, Cubase, Cubasis, Logic, Acid, Orion, Fruityloops, Renoise, Samplitude, n-track as a DXi plug-in, inside of e.g. Cakewalk Sonar or Project 5 by using ReWire with e.g. Live or Protools by using the included virtual MIDI cable with any classical MIDI sequencer, e.g. Cakewalk Pro Audio, Band-In-A-Box, Power Tracks Pro, Sibelius, or Finale The Standalone version also lets you use VSampler without a sequencer as a live instrument. 16 individual stereo outputs are available when using multichannel soundcards (ASIO or DirectSound). For more information see "2.2. Decision: Standalone, Plug-in or ReWire?" on page 24. Whenever VSTi, ReWire, Standalone version or virtual MIDIcable is mentioned in the manual, this symbol marks their absence in the OEM version. New features included with VSampler 3.1 and up Some of the new features added after the release of VSampler 3.0, are not offered by Cakewalk as free update to the VSampler 3.0 DXi OEM version. They can however be added, and are also part of the upgrade. This affects the following additional features: playback of Instruments of any size, without being limited by RAM size import of the formats ReCycle (RCY, REX, RX2), Kontakt, Battery and E-MU III / IV CD group effects and individual outputs at Sample level, e. g. to add different effects to the bass-drum and snare-drum of a drum kit, or to send their signals to different mixer channels of the sequencer Whenever one of these features is mentioned in the manual, it will be marked by this symbol.

If you want several individual outputs, select All Synth Outputs (Audio), see also 4.5. Using Separate Outputs on page 70. Sonar has now created two tracks. The MIDI track sends MIDI data to the output device VSampler, die Audio track receives the audio signal from the input device VSampler:
Start double-click the Edit button in the VST instruments dialog in order to open the VSampler GUI:
if the standard Soundlibrary startup.VS3 does not open automatically, open it using VSamplers menu item File | Open expand the MIDI track so that you can see the track properties; choose a MIDI channel ("Ch 1: ") and an Instrument from the loaded Soundlibrary (euro)
Now you can play VSampler using your MIDI keyboard or the on-screen virtual keyboard. You can create further MIDI tracks (right mouse button Insert MIDI Track) for the common output device VSampler 3, in order to play up to 16 different VSampler Instruments:
VSampler 3 Start Up and Basics In order to playback existing MIDI tracks with VSampler, you have to set the output device to VSampler for each track (in the right column). Make sure that each track is set to a different MIDI channel number (Ch 2, 3, etc.). You can now assign Instruments from the current VSampler Soundlibrary to the other tracks. After double-clicking the VSampler rack module in Sonars Synth Rack, the VSampler GUI appears on your screen. Since the operation of VSampler is the same whether the Standalone version or the plug-in version is used, further steps will be described together in the following chapters.

ReWire

By using all 16 MIDI channels (see basics on page 102) VSampler can play up to 16 different Instruments simultaneously. To do this, set your keyboards MIDI out to an appropriate MIDI channel, or the MIDI outs of several keyboards or sequencer tracks to different MIDI channels. Connecting the sequencer (master) to VSampler (slave): first start your sequencer then start the Standalone version of VSampler using the Windows start menu: Start Programs Speedsoft VSampler 3 when asked Do you want to start VSampler in ReWire mode? answer yes After the start, VSamplers GUI appears on your screen. In the sequencer, assign the output device of the desired MIDI tracks to VSampler 3 ReWire, and/or activate VSampler as input device for the desired number of audio tracks. If your sequencer only supports audio tracks per ReWire, you can use the included virtual MIDI cable (see 5.3.2. Setting up the virtual MIDI cable on page 84) for the MIDI connection.

after clicking the "AKAI" button, the Instruments of an Akai CD are presented
You now have the choice of either importing the Instruments immediately (without previewing them) or first sorting out the Instruments you dont need and then importing the rest (with preview):
Operation Without preview: (deactivate the LED Preview Instrument) Select one or several Instruments. Finish the import by clicking on the Import button. This will cause the selected Instruments to be added to the Pool (i.e. the current Soundlibrary). When the VSampler Soundlibrary is saved, the imported Instruments will be permanently part of it. With preview: (default setting, LED Preview Instrument is activated) This option allows you to compare Instruments of an external file before actually importing them, so that you can import only the Instruments that you need. The currently selected Instrument will be automatically loaded to all opened MIDI channels for previewing. Note: this does not actually import it into the Instruments Pool yet. You can play it right away with a keyboard or by the sequencer and hear it in the song. At this point, you can step through the Instruments of this external file using the cursor keys, and compare and contrast them before deciding which ones to import. The Preview Instrument will be permanently imported into the Pool (i.e. the current Soundlibrary) by clicking the "Import" button or by double-clicking it in order to actually import it. Until this is done, you can continue to test further Instruments as described above. Keep in mind that as soon as you click on another Instrument, the previous Preview Instrument will be deleted and replaced by the new one. The two typical steps are illustrated in the following screenshots: first Preview (Grand Piano in the left screenshot, and House Piano in the middle screenshot), then Import (House Piano):
first previewing Grand Piano and House Piano, then importing House Piano
Both steps in detail: Preview: Step through the Instruments by using cursor keys to compare possible candidates. The Instrument under the cursor is automatically loaded to all opened MIDI channels and can be heard in the song. Until it is imported, it will be displayed gray and in square brackets. Importing: Select one or several Instruments, and finish importing by clicking on the "Import" button. Now, the Instrument will be displayed white and without the square brackets. The padlock symbol (see page 65) of the MIDI channel will be closed. You can now repeat the process for the other MIDI channels until your arrangement is fully equipped with appropriate Instruments. All Instruments that have been assigned to a MIDI channel are colored orange when displayed in the Pool. When importing Instruments for a song, it is generally a better idea to not to pin yourself down too early, but rather to import all of the Instruments to the Pool that you would seriously consider using for your sequencer tracks. While you are working with the Instruments of the Pool, it is easy to quickly test and switch them. Re-open the desired MIDI channel slot (double-click on the lock symbol) and step through the Instruments of the Pool using the cursor keys. Once youve made your decision, lock the MIDI channel slot again.

4.3.4 Importing from the Bank Manager Similar to the Import Window, Instruments which have been entered in the Bank Manager can be imported directly to a MIDI channel or to the Pool.
In the middle column, select the desired Instrument and import it with either the Import button or by double-click. In order to use the preview function which you are familiar with from the Import Window, activate the option Preview Instrument per context menu (right mouse click). To automatically load the Instrument to a MIDI channel the channel slot has to be unlocked (opened padlock symbol). Then you can step through the Instruments using the cursor keys, and compare and contrast them before deciding which ones to import. When youve finished testing an Instrument and like it, dont forget to import it permanently to the Pool using the Import button. The same functions are also available in the Category Browser (right column). Open the folder of a category and import the desired Instrument by doubleclick.
Assigning Instruments to MIDI Channels
4.4.1 The MIDI channels padlock symbol The previous version VSampler 2 offered an option similar to that of many hardware synthesizers globally switching (see the appendix of the Reference Manual) between: Preset mode: automatically plays the current Instrument (ignores MIDI channels) Multi mode: every MIDI channel plays its previously assigned Instrument VSampler 3 combines the advantages of both modes: each MIDI channel can be switched separately. This way, certain MIDI channels can automatically playback the Instrument currently selected in the Pool (like the Preset mode) while all other channels can keep their assigned Instrument (like in the Multi mode). In front of each of the 16 MIDI channels is a padlock symbol which is either open or closed. Double-clicking the padlock symbol will lock or unlock the corresponding MIDI channel:
Channels 1 to 9 locked (hard-wired), Channels 10 to16 open (play the currently selected Instrument of the Pool)
locked The Instrument is hard-wired to this MIDI channel (corresponds to the classic Multi mode). This can take place in the following ways: by double-clicking an open padlock symbol per drag & drop of an Instrument from Pool, Import Window or Windows Explorer by the Import button of the Import Window
Operation with a Program Change1 message, for example when another Instrument is chosen in the track properties of the sequencer open No Instrument has been assigned to this MIDI channel yet, it always plays whatever Instrument is currently selected in the Pool (corresponds to the classic Preset mode). When you are stepping through the Instruments in your Pool, Import Window or Bank Manager using the cursor keys or the mouse, all open MIDI channels will follow your selection. The selected Instrument is automatically loaded, so that you can hear it right away during playback of a song, and can play it on a keyboard. As soon as youve found the right Instrument, lock the MIDI channel by double-clicking the padlock symbol. The default setting for all 16 channels is open, i.e. VSampler plays the currently selected Instrument on all 16 channels. 4.4.2 Decision: Assign Instruments in Sequencer or in VSampler? You can assign Instruments either in the track properties of the sequencer or in VSamplers MIDI channel slots. You should decide for one way or the other. We recommend using VSamplers MIDI channel slots. It is not recommended to mix the two methods! Particularly MIDI newcomers will run into the problem that starting/stopping the sequencer will cause the MIDI channels to lose their Instruments. For reason and solution see 4.4.4. Assigning MIDI channels in VSampler on page 67.

Important General Settings Choosing the Output Device Assign a standard Output Device. Do not use a device with an emulated DirectSound driver, as this will not allow you to achieve error-free audio playback. Make sure that the audio output from VSampler and from the sequencer dont block each other. When both programs use the same soundcard, the soundcard must have either individual outputs or have multi-client capability. It is not recommended to use ASIO and DirectSound simultaneously. Deactivate all unneeded devices that you do not want to use as individual outputs. To do this, click on the last column of these devices so that their state switches to Off. Close the dialog window. Now, try playing your keyboard to test the settings. If necessary, reopen the previously mentioned menu Options | Audio | Devices again and adjust the buffer size (see the screenshot on the previous page), to achieve a clean and delay-free audio playback. Adjusting the Buffer size The buffer size determines the size of data packages sent to the soundcard. The smaller the buffer size, the shorter the delay (latency) between the striking of a key and the audible output of sound. A small buffer size does however increase the demands on the soundcard driver and the entire system. For DirectSound devices, the buffer size can be set in the Buffer size field. For ASIO devices, the buffer size is set in the control panel of the soundcard itself, which you can open by clicking ASIO System Control. To reduce the latency, decrease the Buffer size. After doing so, make a test to make sure that the audio playback is still error-free. The minimum possible value depends on the quality of your soundcard driver. If the Buffer size is too small, then you will hear clicks, or the playback will stutter. In this case, increase the Buffer size. Inform yourself on the website of the soundcard manufacturer, whether a newer driver is available for your soundcard, with which a lower latency could be reached. 78
VSampler 3 Start Up and Basics ASIO or DirectSound? Both standards have the goal of producing lowest possible sound-output delay following a user action. ASIO (Audio Streaming Input Output) is a driver specification developed by Steinberg to enable the delay-free playing of software synthesizers. DirectSound is part of Microsofts DirectX, a driver specification designed for the delay-free playback of audio in computer games. Typically, ASIO offers a lower latency and greater reliability, because in comparison with DirectSound, it handles sound output with higher priority than other processes (e.g. graphic output). In some cases it is possible to further improve the ASIO performance by switching the system performance optimization from Programs to Background services in the Windows control panel. This option is accessed under Performance and Maintenance | System | Advanced. For further information, see section 6.8. Optimizing the PC for Audio Performance on page 116. 5.1.2 VSTi, DXi, ReWire

Choose one of the three following setting variations: Tempo: Output frequency Half + Resampling quality Standard Standard: Output frequency Full + Resampling quality Standard Quality: Output frequency Full + Resampling quality Production Compare the results and decide for yourself. As a rule, you should only change the Resampling quality and leave the Output frequency at Full.
VSampler 3 Start Up and Basics Output frequency You should only change the standard setting Full if you need to spare the last droplet of processor performance and cant find any other way. This setting determines whether VSampler internally computes with the full, half, or quarter frequency of the connected output device (sequencer / soundcard). The audio quality suffers noticeably especially at the setting quarter: LoFi at its best. Resample quality For many Instruments, the difference between Standard and Production is hardly audible, so in most situations, Standard should be sufficient. Standard is almost twice as fast as Production, and the maximum polyphony is therefore almost doubled as well. When making a mixdown1 you should switch to Production in order to achieve the best quality. Taking advantage of the special case no resampling If you use modern sampling CDs with multi-sampled Instruments, often separate Samples are made for almost every key, i.e. they play at their original pitch, and VSampler doesnt have to do any resampling at all. This is the case for example with almost all sampled drum Instruments. In order to make use of this performance advantage, you should set your sequencer to a playback frequency that corresponds to the sampling frequency of your Samples. 5.4.2 Limiting polyphony - background The term polyphony refers to the number of Voices that an Instrument can play back simultaneously (see 6.6 Polyphony on page 114). High polyphony requires a large amount of processing power, however, achieving the maximum polyphony is not always necessary. Limiting the polyphony is the simplest and most effective way of reducing the demands on processor power without reducing the audio quality. VSampler allows you to limit polyphony both globally (see screenshot) and per Instrument. Open the menu item Options | Audio | Performance / Quality and choose the tab Performance:
Mixdown: all tracks of a song are mixed (e.g.) into a WAV file, e.g. in order to burn the file on a CD 87
Both general polyphony settings are found at the top right: global: What is the maximum number of Voices allowed to play altogether? per Instrument: What is the maximum number of Voices that an individual Instrument is allowed to play? These setting go into effect immediately and are generally valid. The Instrument settings themselves are not changed, but rather overruled, the effective polyphony limit is always the smallest one of the settings. Exceeding polyphony limits When more Voices are played than are allowed by the polyphony limitations, then VSampler automatically stops the oldest Voice, giving preference to Voices already in their decay phase. This behavior allows Instruments to be played naturally even with low polyphony. If for example you are holding a bass note with your left hand and playing a fast melody with your right, then VSampler will not cut the bass note if the max. polyphony is exceeded, but rather one of the decaying notes of the melody. Polyphony killer After releasing a key, a Voice does not immediately cease, but rather gradually fades out depending on the Instrument, as for example is the case with a plucked guitar string. For this reason, VSampler often must compute a far greater number of Voices than one might suspect. The polyphony of a classical piano piece for example can easily exceed 30 Voices, although a pianist can 88

VSampler 3 Start Up and Basics only hit 10 keys at a time. Particularly the use of the sustain pedal can rapidly increase the polyphony. In cases like these, limiting the polyphony is a good solution. 5.4.3 Limiting polyphony - implementation The standard setting for global polyphony is 255, and for Instrument polyphony 32 (see also 6.6.2 Counting Voices on page 114). When limiting the polyphony, you should rely on your ear and at the same time keep an eye on the number or active Voices as shown in the top right corner of the VSampler GUI.
After a while, you will be able to adapt the performance of VSampler to your project with a few mouse clicks, in order to free up processing power for other tracks. General Limitation playback your song at the position with the greatest polyphony, and note the maximum number of Voices limit the global polyphony to approx. 3/4 of this value playback individual tracks solo, and note the maximum number of Voices of the most demanding track limit the Instrument polyphony to approx. 3/4 of this value Play your song again, and adjust the polyphony values up or down as necessary. If you are uncertain, it is usually better to adjust the Instrument polyphony instead of the global polyphony. Individual limitation per Instrument In most cases, the method described above is sufficient. If you are working intensively with VSampler, it is better to set the individual polyphony for the Instrument itself before you save the Soundlibrary. The effective limitation used for playback is the smaller value of general limitation and individual instrument limitation. The polyphony can also be changed for several Instruments at once:
Important General Settings mark all of the desired Instruments in the Instruments Pool (by holding Shift resp. Ctrl key) per context menu (right mouse button) click on the desired Instrument and select Instrument Options:
set the desired value in the Instrument Polyphony field close the window and save the Soundlibrary The two values below, Release Cutoff Level and Release Cutoff Rate, automatically prevent the waste of processing time: Voices which at the end of their decay phase drop below -50 dB are faded out within the designated time at the latest. 5.4.4 Optimizing DRC Dynamic Resource Control (DRC) enables VSampler to load and playback Soundlibraries and Instruments of any size, it is not limited to the size of your main memory (RAM). Sample level DRC is not available in the VSampler 3.0 OEM version, see 1.5. OEM Version vs. Independent Version on page 20.

VSampler 3 Start Up and Basics For this reason, there are two optimization options: lazy: default setting, only re-optimizes the memory organization after the size of the active Instrument has been changed by a certain amount, some main memory might be unused until the next change always: re-optimizes the memory organization after every size change of the active Instruments You should leave the option at the default setting "lazy", not fully optimized main memory utilization doesn't have consequences, as a rule. At the latest, the next time the Soundlibrary is opened the optimization status will be back at 100%. General tip: If you experience drop-outs at high polyphony, do not switch off DRC 2 yet, but rather: limit the Instrument polyphony, see 5.4.3. Limiting polyphony - implementation on page 89 raise the DRC limit as previously described
Decision: Linked or Embedded Samples?
5.5.1 Comparison VSampler can save a Soundlibrary with either linked or embedded Samples. The standard setting is linked. Both variations have their advantages and disadvantages. You should make a permanent decision for either one or the other ways of working. The setting can be made in the menu Options | Import on the tab General:
VSampler 3 Start Up and Basics The difference between the two variations: linked (default setting) Soundlibrary settings (.VS3 file) and Samples (.WAV files) are stored separately. The.VS3 file does not include the Samples themselves, but rather links to the location of the WAV files. embedded Soundlibrary settings and Samples are stored together in a (large).VS3 file. The Samples are embedded. You can import VSampler Instruments of both types, and combine them at the same time in your Soundlibraries, whether linked (e.g. HALion, Kontakt) or embedded (e.g. GIG, SF2). As soon as you save your Soundlibrary as a.VS3 file, VSampler treats all Samples as determined in your general setting. When set to linked, VSampler will create new WAV files, if they dont exist from the original Instruments already. The advantages and disadvantages of the standard setting linked: Advantage 1: faster saving Because it does not include the Samples, the.VS3 file is very small, and can be saved within seconds. The reason: during work on the song, usually the Samples itself do not change, but only the parameters of the Instrument. Preexisting Samples (WAV files) are not saved each time, as is the case when using the "embedded" Soundlibrary type. Advantage 2: multiple instances of the same Sample The linked Samples (WAV files) can be used by any number of Instruments and Soundlibraries without repeatedly using storage space on the hard disk. This way its no waste of space for example to import.VS3 Soundlibraries which are sorted by subject, choose the Instruments for a particular song, and store that selection as a new.VS3 Soundlibrary for the song. Advantage 3: external editing of the Samples possible The linked Samples (WAV files) can be edited in an external sample editor at any time, or they can be used in other programs. As soon as you reload the Soundlibrary, the edited Samples will be used automatically. This is quite useful for example when creating your own Instruments, because you can immediately hear the raw version of the Instrument and test it. You dont have to cut and loop the Samples before deciding whether or not you like the Instrument. 95

MIDI and Sequencer

6.2.1 The classic MIDI cable Since over 20 years, musicians have been connecting their electronic musical instruments with a MIDI1 cable, in order to let one device control (an)other device(s). The MIDI cable does not transmit sound (audio), but rather commands, such as which sound is to be played at what time. The simplest use is the connection between a MIDI keyboard and a sound module (e.g. VSampler): MIDI keyboard MIDI cable sound module
musician strikes keys on the keyboard keyboard sends messages to the sound module to play the notes sound module receives note-messages and transforms them into sound Typical MIDI-messages are e.g. start and end of a note (Note On / Note Off) or switching to another sound (Program Change). This way the musician can use a MIDI keyboard to play the sounds and switch between the sounds of a connected synthesizer. How the transmitted note-message actually sounds, depends entirely on the connected synthesizer (or VSampler Instrument), and not on the MIDI keyboard. 6.2.2 The sequencer A sequencer such as Cubase or Sonar can record audio data as well as MIDI data coming from a keyboard. After being recorded, both can be played back together. This way, different Instruments can be recorded on various tracks one after another, which in the end can be mixed and mastered into a complete song. The sequencer differentiates between audio tracks and MIDI tracks: Audio tracks Similar to a tape recorder, the sequencer records the sound of a connected instrument onto an audio track, which can then be played back. The recording is
Musical Instruments Digital Interface, the standard for connecting electronic musical instruments and controllers 101
Basics frozen, meaning that the sound of the Instrument and the melody cannot be changed later1. MIDI tracks Instead of the sound, the sequencer records MIDI messages which can e.g. be received from a keyboard. These messages can be altered in the sequencer in any way, e.g. in order to correct wrong notes or timing mistakes. In order for this data to become audible, the MIDI track sends the MIDI messages to a sound module such as VSampler. How the transmitted note-message actually sounds, depends entirely on the connected sound module. If another sound module is connected, or in the case of VSampler, if another Instrument is selected, then the previously recorded melody can be played back with a completely different sound. Conclusion: VSampler receives its MIDI messages from MIDI tracks, and plays back the produced sound through the soundcard (Standalone version) or in the mixer channels / audio tracks of the sequencer (VSTi, DXi, ReWire). MIDI channel 1 MIDI channel 2 MIDI channel 3 MIDI channel. MIDI channel 16 mixer channel / audio track 1 mixer channel / audio track 5 mixer channel / audio track 5 mixer channel / audio track mixer channel / audio track

Archiving and Internet Exchange of Soundlibraries
For the purpose of archiving and for exchanging Soundlibraries over the Internet, VSampler offers a unique solution: it enables the loading and saving of compressed Soundlibraries that are significantly smaller than the uncompressed standard types. These compressed Soundlibraries have the file extension VC3. The installation of a special compression program is not required. Depending on the intended usage, you have the choice between two types; see the pull down menu item Export | Export compressed library: FLAC, lossless FLAC (flac.sourceforge.net) is perfect for archiving purposes. All details are completely preserved. It reaches a compression of ca. 2 : 1, and compresses somewhat better than Rar/Zip/Ace.
Basics Ogg Vorbis, lossy Ogg Vorbis (www.vorbis.com) is perfect for exchanging larger Soundlibraries over the Internet. The compression ratio can be freely adjusted; default setting is 50% quality at variable bitrate. Depending on the type of audio material this results in a compression rate of about 10:1, while the quality difference to the uncompressed original is difficult to hear even for trained ears. At the same compression rate Ogg Vorbis is superior to the somewhat dated MP3 format, as e.g. the result of a big public listening test of the German computer mag ct confirms: www.heise.de/newsticker/data/anw-08.09.02-000
Optimizing the PC for Audio Performance
6.8.1 Purchasing decisions: hardware A hardware sampler is nothing other than a pre-configured package consisting of a software sampler and hardware a closed system with pre-defined characteristics and fixed processing power. In the best case, you have the choice between a handful of add-ons provided by the sampler manufacturer. In comparison with this, VSampler as a software instrument is part of an open system which each user can assemble to suit their own needs. This is costeffective, because the PC already includes the complete hardware, and future hardware upgrades benefit the entire system, including VSampler. There is a huge selection of components available produced by various manufacturers whether its an effect plug-in or a soundcard. Here is some decision-making help concerning the 5 most important hardware components, starting with the simplest. CPU (Processor) The faster the CPU the better. When running on a system with the current generation of processors from AMD or Intel, the performance of VSampler is significantly better than that of most hardware samplers. Here is an indication: on a somewhat dated Pentium III with 700 MHz, VSampler achieves a polyphony of up to 120 stereo Voices. The number is naturally reduced by the use of filters, effects and modulations when using VSampler in actual practice. Usually, in addition to VSampler, other instruments and effects are also active which also require processing power. The playback frequency of the entire digital 116

VSampler 3 Tour

Feature Overview
1998-2003 Speedsoft Audio Tools GmbH, Dbeln, Germany All rights reserved. Revision: 23.12.2003
All product names mentioned in this document remain the property and/or trademark of their respective owners. Mentioning product names of 3rd parties is for information purposes only. Microsoft, Microsoft Windows, DirectX, DirectSound, WDM Microsoft Corporation Cubase, Cubase SX, Steinberg, VST, ASIO, HALion, LM4 Steinberg Media Technologies AG Cakewalk, Sonar, DXi Twelve Tone Systems, Inc. Emagic, Logic Emagic Soft- und Hardware GmbH ACID, Soundforge Sonic Foundry, Inc. Reason, ReBirth, ReWire Propellerhead Software AB Ogg, Vorbis Xiph.Org FLAC GPL/LGPL

Table of contents

Intro....4 VSTi, DXi, Rewire, MIDI...6 2.1 2.2 2.3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4.1 4.5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.Plugin (VSTi, DXi)...6 Standalone (MIDI, Rewire, DirectSound, ASIO)..6 Optimized for MS Windows..7 WAV, LM4, Battery, SF2, HALion, Gig, Kontakt, AKAI, E-MU.8 Autoload-Preview...9 Soundbank-Manager..9 AKAI and E-MU CDs 1:1 on harddisk..9 SF2: for SB Live! and Audigy..10 VC3: up to 20:1 compressd for Internet exchange.10 High Performance Audio Engine...11 from true to nature to experimental..11 Sample-Editor...12 Auto-Looper....12 Beat-Slicer...13

Import....8

Export....10

Sampler...11

Synthesizer...14 Effects....17 Modulation...19 Remote control and automation...21 User Interface - The Chameleon...22 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 10.5 Different Views....22 Variable designs using Skins..24 User interfaces should be transparent..25 The rack-devices...25 Smart helpers...27
It is aim of this tour to introduce the possibilities of VSampler 3 to you in a summary. This is the print-version of the VSampler 3 online tour of www.vsampler.com, which additionally contains animated illustrations, demonstrating e.g. the possible dragndrop actions.

Small View of VSampler 3

VSampler transforms your PC into a 255-voice software sampler, turning any recorded noise into a musical instrument. VSampler provides all of the classical sampler features in excellent sound quality, and also offers you a multitude of new opportunities. In cooperation with the users of its award-winning predecessor (see www.maz-sound.com/?show=product&id=5) an intelligent softwaresampler has been created, which beneath a truly transparent surface combines extensive editing abilities with simplest handling. Drag&drop and context menus allow quick access to all functions and provide for a smooth workflow. VSampler can operate either as a plugin (VSTi or DXi) in your sequencer, or it can run as standalone version, connecting via Rewire or MIDI. The included virtual MIDI-cable also connects VSampler with classical MIDI sequencers. VSampler loads instruments in the industry standard sampler formats SF2, Gigasampler, HALion, Kontakt, AKAI (S1000/3000 CDs and
5 S5000/6000 AKP files) and E-MU III / IV CD, as well as drumkits (LM4, Battery KIT) and samples (WAV, AIF).
The following new functions are available in VSampler 3.1 (and up): plays instruments of any size without being limited to RAM-size import formats Kontakt, Battery and E-MU III / IV CD group-effects and individual outputs for samples of e.g. a drumkit Those functions are not available in OEM-versions of VSampler 3.0, which are licensed and distributed by 3rd parties as part of their own products. At the moment this applies to VSampler 3.0 DXi of the Cakewalk product Sonar 3 Producer. The upgrade to the full version is available at www.maz-sound.com for 39 (around $47).
The unique instrument preview allows you to test different sounds with a single mouse-click on-the-fly during playback. Owners of an SB Live! or Audigy soundcard will be pleased that VSampler is able to save files in SF2 format as an option. VSampler's various tempo-synchronizable envelope types and LFO's, and its velocity sensitive filters ranging from subtle to aggressive are all inducive to sound editing. Instruments can be further refined using either the included effects (Reverb, Delay, Phaser, Distortion, EQ ) or any VST-plugin. The animation of all effect-, envelope- and filterparameters in a mutual modulation matrix, creates instruments with extraordinary dynamics and impressive, realistic playability. The included presets for effects, envelopes and modulation will get you off to a good start. Whether quick playback module for everyday use or creative tool with synthesizer qualities - VSampler fuses both in a versatile instrument.

VSTi, DXi, Rewire, MIDI

Plugin (VSTi, DXi)
Used as a plugin, VSampler is seamlessly integrated in your sequencer with sample-accurate timing. All settings are saved together with the song and are restored on load - total recall! If 16 simultaneously playable instruments, 255 stereo voices and 16 individual outputs (number and mono-/stereo adjustable) are not enough, just start another VSampler plugin - at no extra cost :)

VSampler VSTi with Steinberg Cubase
VSampler DXi with Cakewalk Sonar
Standalone (MIDI, Rewire, DirectSound, ASIO)
The standalone version of VSampler can be played live via MIDI keyboard, independent of a sequencer. Thanks to the included virtual MIDI cable VSampler can be easily connected to any MIDI-sequencer. Audio signals are routed via 16 individual outputs to DirectSound or ASIO soundcards. Each instrument can be assigned to separate output devices which in turn are managed within the integrated 16-channel-mixer, multi-effects and record option inclusive. Via Rewire, VSampler can be hooked up with sample accurate audio/MIDI synchronization to the mixer of sequencers like e.g. Propellerhead's Reason.

Optimized for MS Windows

VSampler has been developed exclusively for the Windows platform. The program code is not limited by forced compatibility with other operating systems. VSampler supports the Windows versions 98SE, ME, 2000 and XP.

Import

WAV, LM4, Battery, SF2, HALion, Gig, Kontakt, AKAI, E-MU
VSampler owners have the broad range of existing sound libraries at their disposal right away. Additionally to it's own format, VSampler loads instruments in the industry standard sampler formats SF2, Gigasampler, HALion, Kontakt, AKAI (S1000/3000 CDs and S5000/6000 AKP files) and EMU III / IV CD, as well as drumkits (LM4, Battery KIT) and samples (WAV, AIF).
Import-Rack with One-Click-Autoload

Autoload-Preview

VSampler's unique instrument preview with its autoload function takes the difficulty out of searching for the right sound; you can test different sounds with a single mouse-click on-the-fly during playback. Before importing the instrument, you can hear how it will actually sound in the song. If you like it, just double-click to import it, or continue testing other instruments by stepping to the next one by cursor keys or mouse - there's no easier and quicker way. Very practical for everyday use is the Import Rack, which recalls the last used location for each file type separately.

Soundbank-Manager

VSampler's integrated Soundbank-Manager with search function and category filter offers unique comfort for the administration of extensive sound libraries. Each instrument of the soundbank-manager can be loaded to a MIDI-channel with a single mouse-click.
AKAI and E-MU CDs 1:1 on harddisk
VSampler offers users of AKAI and E-MU CD's 100%-future compatibility by building a 1:1 copy of the CD as disc image file at your local harddisk or network. No more time consuming conversion into one or even multiple sampler-specific formats. The CD fully retains its best feature - the compatibility with all existing samplers1. VSampler loads the instruments directly from the disc image and handles them the same way as any other soundbank format. Without having to change CD's, you can scroll through your AKAI or EMU CD-collection in the soundbank-manager, enjoying the VSamplertypical comfort of the autoload-feature, testing different sounds with a single mouse-click on-the-fly during playback.

by the help of e.g. Daemon Tools (freeware, see http://www.daemontools.org) other softwaresamplers are able to access such a "virtual CD" as well

Export

SF2: for SB Live! and Audigy
In addition to its own format with the file extension.VS3, VSampler also exports soundbanks in SF2 format, an ability that will especially please owners of SB Live! and Audigy soundcards. VSampler is the clever comfortalternative to classic SF2 editors, because it doesn't limit the user to the capabilities of the SF2 format generally. With VSampler you can create SF2s easier than ever, to play them back as usual through an SB Live! or SB Audigy soundcard, or you can load them into any other SF2 player. At the same time you stay independent of any specific hardware - indeed the best of both worlds.
VC3: up to 20:1 compressd for Internet exchange
VSampler allows direct loading and storing of compressed soundbanks, which are much smaller than the uncompressed standard type. This compressed type has the file extension.VC3. Depending on the purpose, you have 2 types to choose from: lossless: for archive-purposes, approx. 2:1, which thanks to Flac (http://flac.sourceforge.net) is better than Rar/Zip/Ace lossy: to exchange larger sound banks over the internet, thanks to Ogg Vorbis (http://www.vorbis.com) even at 20:1 the quality is astonishingly good (better than MP3, see http://www.heise.de/newsticker/data/anw-08.09.02-000), default compression is approx. 10:1

Sampler

High Performance Audio Engine
The internal 32 bit floating point audio processing enables a pristine playback of your sample material, with a dynamic range beyond human aural perception. The semi-modular structure of the VSampler engine allows it to emulate classical hardware-samplers as well as to construct extremely complex instruments. From a single sample to a filtered, real-time modulated multi-layered sound with multi-effects - everything is possible. The integrated Dynamic Resource Control (DRC) always provides the best possible use of CPU power and main memory in every situation. Furthermore, the performance of VSampler can be adapted to the arrangement, so that all your other instruments and effects will always have the processing power they need.
from true to nature to experimental
VSampler supports samples with 16/20/24/32 bit resolution at any sampling frequency. The playback frequency is actually limited by the output device only. Of course, VSampler supports all common output formats from 16 bit/44kHz up to 32bit/192 kHz. In its simplest form, a VSampler instrument can consist of a single sample that can be played across the entire range of the keyboard. In order to emulate the dynamic behavior of natural instruments, it can also consist of hundreds of samples mapped to different keys (Key Zones) and velocities (Velocity Zones). If desired, VSampler can automatically create a smooth transition (crossfade) between neighboring areas. Various parameters, modulations and effects can be assigned to each individual sample, as well as conditions when to trigger the sample. A sample can be triggered for example at the release of a key, or when certain controller values are reached, or it can be crossfaded into other samples via MIDI controller.

transparent Volume-Envelope with sample display in background
VSampler offers several sample-playback methods, including Tape Machine (Tap on/off) and Drum Mode. Samples can be organized in groups in order to randomly playback samples (Cycle Groups) or to limit polyphony (Poly Groups). The Exclusion Mode takes care of e.g. a typical hihat group, where the closed hihat stops the decaying open hihat.

Sample-Editor

The integrated Sample Editor offers all of the basic sample-editing functions, such as cut/copy/insert, change level, fade in/out, autotrim sample start/end, phase and playback reversal, switch channels or convert format. Time stretching (Tempo Scale) enables a sample to be compressed or stretched without changing its pitch. The Pitch Shifter does the opposite.

Auto-Looper

A feature that up until now has only been available in specialized programs is native part of VSampler already: an intelligent Auto Looper. The Auto Looper takes care of the often arduous search for suitable loop points at the touch of a
13 button - even for hundreds of samples at a time. Alternatively VSampler offers non-destructive crossfade-looping in real time, meaning any crossfade loop can be activated or altered at any time without any changes being made to the sample data. Within a sample, various markers can be set, for example to mark the start- and end-position for playback, or individual drum hits of a drum loop.

Beat-Slicer

The Beat Slicer slices drum loops into single hits, allowing you to change tempo and pitch of the loop in real time, independent of each other and without losing sound quality. The integrated Beat Detector automatically sets the markers for the individual slices with adjustable sensitivity. These beat markers can be manually moved/deleted/added.
comfortable Sample-Editor with Autolooper and Beatslicer

Synthesizer

VSamplers integrated synthesizer features could make some pureblooded synths envious. For sound shaping there are two parallel usable filters with freely adjustable velocity dynamics. The ten different filter types provide cutoff slopes from 6 dB to 24 dB and the types lowpass, highpass and bandpass. The target range of the filter envelopes affecting cutoff frequency and resonance can be adjusted with upper and lower limit to precisely attain the desired effect.
32-stage filter-envelope with autozoom
The various envelope types don't give an edge to just the filter. In addition to the volume- and filter-envelopes with their (up to) 32 freely editable points, curve shape and loop, for each sample you have simultaneously(!) at your disposal: 4 free envelopes, each with up to 32 freely editable points, curve shape and loop 4 LFOs with various waveforms and delay/attack/release parameters 4 step sequencers with freely adjustable number of steps (max.192), free patterns including load from WAV" option, which transforms the volume progression of a WAV file into a pattern

Each LFO and step sequencer also can alternatively operate at instrument level. The load from WAV function turns the step sequencer into an envelopefollower. This can result for example in marvelously scintillating pad sounds by e.g. having the filter pulsate in the rhythm of a drumloop.
4 free envelopes + 4 free step sequencers
Each controller knob has its own little "Analogizer" attached. This mini-fader allows to add a pinch of analog-like swaying to recreate the vital ever-changing sound of analog synthesizers. All envelopes, LFO's and step sequencers can be synchronized to the song tempo. The included presets for effects, envelopes and modulation will get you off to a good start.

4 free LFO's

Effects
VSampler instruments can be further refined by the included effects (Reverb, Delay, Phaser, Flanger, Chorus, Soft Limiter, Compressor, Distortion, 3-bandEQ) or any VST-Plugin. Multiple effects can be assigned independently: 3 per sample, 3 per sample-group, 3 per instrument and 3 per output channel. The sample can end up passing through up to 12 effects.
As opposed to other samplers, VSampler seamlessly integrates the effects into the voice architecture and does not differentiate between internal effects and (external) VST-Plugins. The result is a unique combination of effects and modulation: the parameters of all effects, envelopes and filters are controlled in a mutual modulation matrix (see the following section).
joined forces: integrated effects + VST plugins
Just a few examples of use: VSampler envelope controls the cutoff frequency of a VST-filterplugin as if it was one of the integrated filters VSampler LFO wavers through the decades of a vinyl-plugin Aftertouch activates your favorite distortion effect VSampler step-sequenzer lets the room size of a reverb pulsate rhythmically
VSampler 3 joins forces and fuses its own strengths with those of the plugins to endless creative freedom2. It creates unique instruments with amazing dynamics, that can be played with heretofore unknown expressiveness.
of course the selection of the modulated effect-parameters is the responsibility of the user, not every parameter of every plugin can be realtime-modulated with a sensible result

Modulation

VSampler provides extensive opportunities to endow instruments with an impressive vitality, and to animate parameters in realtime. All modulations are centrally displayed and managed: at the modulation matrix. For each of the 12 modulation slots you can select which Source controls what Target at what Factor (strength). Several sources can affect the same target in order to create particularly interesting modulation passages. Vice versa, a source (e.g. a MIDI controller) can simultaneously control several targets at once, which is especially useful during a live performance.

central modulation matrix incl. effect-parameters-modulation
The most important modulation sources: 4 envelopes, 4 step sequencers, 4 LFOs elapsed time after pressing or releasing a certain key velocity, aftertouch, modwheels, pitchbend, key number 6 user-definable MIDI controllers (and more, see next sction)
The most important modulation targets: all effect parameters (incl. VST plugins) volume, panning, pitch, filter time + level of the envelope segments of all 7 envelopes (1 x volume, 2 x filter, 4 x free) frequency of LFOs and step sequencers filter sends and effect sends sample start and end
In the detail view, the movements of the current modulation values are displayed graphically. The affect of source and factor on the modulation target can be adapted perfectly with a freely adjustable curve. The included presets for effects, envelopes and modulations will get you off to a good start.
animated display of the current modulation values
Remote control and automation
Practically every VSampler parameter can be remote controlled and automated by MIDI-controllers. Likewise, the movements of all VSampler controller knobs in the main view and the mixer can be automated, i.e. the suitable sequencer3 records the on-screen movements of the control knobs made with the mouse, and later reproduces them 1:1. Thanks to VSampler's integrated Learn Controller function, a small movement of your controller is all it takes, and the selected knob of VSampler's main view or mixer will recognize the controller number, and immediately respond to it. For all other parameters VSampler provides a detailed Controller List where each incoming MIDI controller can be assigned to any VSampler parameter. The advantage: VSampler can work with any MIDI hardware even if that hardware is unable to send Sysex messages or to be programmed.

Controller-List

requires a host sequencer able to record VST automation data, DXi-plugin and standalone momentarily only support the automation by MIDI controller
User Interface - The Chameleon
At least as important as the technical features of an electronic instrument is its handling. In close contact with the users of the predecessor version a truly transparent user interface has been developed. It can easily be adapted to individual working methods, following the "less is more" principle. For beginners, VSampler provides a simple Small View for quick playback of soundbanks, whereas advanced users can choose the Edit View with its outstanding graphical support for sound editing. Drag & drop and context menus allow quick access to all features and provide for a smooth workflow.

Different Views

VSampler's flexible user interface can easily be adapted to your personal practices. Whether you prefer a simple compact view for playback, or the complete editing features of the edit view; whether you prefer switchable windows or several windows in classical rack view or undocked at the desktop - you call the shots! VSampler always recalls the last setting, including all window positions.

Small View quick soundbank-player
Edit View, variant 1 compact all-in-one view
Edit View, variant 2 scrollable rack Edit View, variant 3 all windows undocked
VSampler supports the creative workflow by following the less is more principle. Unused function groups can be hidden using the context menu (right mouse button). What may sound trivial in theory is quite useful in practice: Pages in the Main-Rack: Each of the 9 buttons can be hidden if the corresponding page is not currently needed:

or e.g. this way:

File types in the Import-Rack: VSampler supports a multitude of file formats. If you don't own any instruments of a particular file type you should hide the corresponding button. or e.g. this way:
Toolbar (right): As shown above in the screenshots of the Edit View variants 1 and 2, the number and order of the rack buttons appearing in the toolbar is adjustable. Also, the individual pages of the main window can appear as smaller buttons.
Variable designs using Skins
VSampler can change its design by loading Skins, to support the mood of a song, which can be quite inspiring.
User interfaces should be transparent.
VSamplers user interface offers outstanding graphical support for sound editing and also makes it easy for beginners to get started. It combines the flexibility of the semi-modular sound engine with the clarity of a fixed layout of all control elements. And the interface is transparent in every sense of the word: unused or inactive elements are hidden. They appear in transparent shades of gray, and their settings can't be changed. By linking the graphics to the logic of the soundengine, VSampler provides visual support that helps to avoid twisting currently ineffective knobs. For example, without having set the range slider for filter frequency or resonance as a target for the filter envelope, altering the curve points won't result in any audible effect. VSampler tries to discourage you from such futile actions:-)

And there's more transparency: The transparent envelope display allows the sample waveform (incl. loop points) and the shape of the other envelopes to shimmer through. This way you can optically adjust the envelope to the course of the waveform or to other envelopes (e.g. filter and volume). At the Zones page which shows which sample per key and velocity is played, all zones appear half-transparent as well, letting you see how the zones overlap.

The rack-devices

The Edit View of VSampler consists of 8 rack devices. As described in the chapter "Different Views", these racks can be arranged in 3 different ways: compact single window view, similar to VSampler 2 classical rack view, devices are scrollable all devices as separate windows undocked at the desktop
Main window, Import window, Sample Editor and Bank Manager can be maximized to fullscreen.
Main Window ("F2" key) control center: Instruments Pool, Quickbrowser, sound editing Keyboard ("F3" key) plays chords, is velocity sensitive :) Sample Editor ("F4" key) Autolooper, Beat Slicer, sample editing MIDI ("F5" key) 16 MIDI channels to 16 output devices, multi-effects
Mixer ("F6" key) 16 stereo channels, record option
Pattern Sequencer ("F7" key) sequence instruments and their parameters
Import ("F8" key) Autoload-preview while song is running
Bank Manager ("F9" key) organize instruments independent of their physical location, search, autoload, filter

Smart helpers

. Multilingual user interface and help Not only the context-sensitive help, but also the complete user interface is multilingual. You can currently choose between German and English; further languages will be freely downloadable as they become available. An additional owner's manual is in the works. Drag'n'Drop The many supported drag & drop features of VSampler help to keep distances short and handling easy. Soundbanks and instruments can be dragged directly from the Windows-Explorer to the VSampler interface. It's as easy to assign a sample to a key: just drag it onto the onscreen-keyboard. When dragging several samples you will be asked if they should be placed next to each other on the available keys, or on top of each other to be triggered per velocity level. In the Instruments Pool you can copy, move or merge instruments using drag & drop. The Shift and Ctrl keys decide between move (Shift) and copy (Ctrl) without asking. In the Quickbrowser samples can be copied into other instruments, or instruments can be loaded directly out of an external soundbank without loading the soundbank. In the Import Rack instruments can be mapped to the 16 MIDI-channels by drag & drop. Context menus (right mousekey) VSampler offers a number of different context menus depending on the situation. A click on the right mouse-button shows at once which functions are available for the selected control knob or part of the screen. This often saves you the trouble of having to search the main menu or to dig through the help file or manual. By using the right mouse button you can e.g. setup a controller knob for being remote-controlled by an external MIDI controller, without any programming. Or you can switch the scale of a tempo-related knob between Hz and BPM.

context menu "Learn Controller" for easiest controller-mapping
rotary knob: Shift-key for finetuning, right mousekey for BPM vs. Hz scale
. Finetuning by Shift-key All screen controls of VSampler respond in fine-tuning mode when pressing the Shift key. In this mode, the controllers move significantly slower, to make it easy to adjust even the smallest knobs in single steps. In the envelope display, pressing Shift will cause the envelope points to snap in at the x- or y-axis.
one of the many context menus, Shift-key snaps in at x- or y-axis
range sliders: Shift-key for finetuning mode
. Cloning instruments and settings Page Templates: Each page of VSampler's main window can load and store its settings. The included Page Templates help you get started using VSamplers extensive editing features. Instrument Templates: with the help of an Instrument Template you can clone entire instruments or function-groups, and transfer their settings to another sample set.
. Full control for sound editing Parameter changes always affect the selected Sample Zones. To simplify the editing of complex instruments with hundreds of samples, you can organize samples in named Selection Groups. When importing SF2- and HALion-files VSampler automatically converts layers or folders into Selection Groups. The state of the current selection is displayed by two colored buttons, which simultaneously serve as switches. They let you see whether your next edit operation will change all, several or just one zone of the instrument.
The left button allows you to quickly switch between the last selection and "All", the right button lets you switch between the last selection and the current zone. By using the right mouse-button you can select existing selection groups or create new groups. If the current selection corresponds to a saved Selection Group, VSampler automatically recognizes it and displays its name.