Please note that this new version is only partially compatible with existing presets--please make a back up of your work for safe keeping. Please consider this version a beta for evaluation only. We do not believe this version is ready for a performance. Here are some of the included features:
Reimagined Song Mode:
We started fresh with song mode in a effort to make it much more straightforward and useful. Each song now consists of up to 16 scenes that can launch any available clips and sequences. You get a visual snapshot of which items will launch as well as the ability to edit them. You can create scenes manually or use the snapshot feature to grab what is currently playing. You can play the scenes from start to finish or launch them manually in any order you like. You can also loop scenes or preprogram them to loop a specific number of times. Finally, the keep feature lets you update some clips and sequences in a scene without impacting others that are already playing.
Quadruple the number of sequences:
We have greatly improved the functionality of each sequence cell. Each one now has 4 layers for making separate parts and switching between them in a quantized manner. From the main SEQ screen turn the lower right knob to see the ABCD toolbar. The new song mode can launch sequences along with the specified layer. In this way you can chain patterns and create complex arrangements.
True MIDI sequences:
Each MIDI sequence has four layers and can record notes from the touch screen or external MIDI. All of this can be done independently of the existing pads. Look for the SEQ mode on the KEYS screen. Also check out the MIDI Seq input channel on TOOLS - MIDI In. Both these options give you a direct way to play and record notes using external MIDI devices.
Here are some quick tips on things that have changed and how to work in the new model:
- MIDI Input. There are three ways in the door:
- TOOLS - MIDI In - MIDI Pads channel. Use this channel for controlling blackbox overall, including pads and various options, like pad recording, etc.
- PAD MIDI In. Use this per PAD connection to play a pad melodically via MIDI
- TOOLS - MIDI In - MIDI Seq channel. This new method connects inbound MIDI directly to the currently selected sequence. Use it for playing and recording pitched sequences internally.
- MIDI Output. This is now handled entirely from SEQ cells. Each one can have its own individual MIDI output channel. The 4 layers per sequence will all use the same MIDI output channel.
- SEQS in KEYS mode. Each sequence cell in KEYS mode now maps to a single pad, played chromatically. This simplifies recording and routing in that you specify where the notes will go for all 4 layers. You can record into a KEYS sequence from the MIDI Seq channel and from the KEYS screen when in SEQ mode.
At this point we really want to know what you think. Have we solved the various sequencing traps that plagued the previous versions? Have we missed anything important? Does this new version help you be more creative?