polarity_music

Calculate Time-Based Units with the Grid

Added 2024-06-10 14:22:39 +0000 UTC

In this video, the creator demonstrates how to use Bitwig's Grid to solve the problem of converting millisecond-based compressor release times to beat-based units like 1/16th or 1/8th notes. This involves using the Grid to calculate time-based units that adjust automatically with changes in BPM. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

Key Points:

Compressor Plus Limitation: Typically uses milliseconds for attack and release times.
Beat-based Units: Using note values for release times can ensure consistency across BPM changes.
Grid Calculation:
- Set up an FX Grid with Compressor Plus.
- Use the transport to generate a ramp signal that reflects BPM changes.
- Convert the ramp signal into a sine wave and measure its frequency using the zero crossings method.
- Calculate the milliseconds from the frequency.
Implementation:
- Multiply the phase signal to adjust pitch and use zero crossings to estimate frequency.
- Convert hertz to milliseconds using reciprocal calculations.
- Modulate the compressor's release time with this value.

Detailed Steps:

Set Up Grid:
- Use FX Grid, add Compressor Plus, and pass audio through.
Generate Ramp Signal:
- Use the transport module to create a ramp signal reflecting BPM.
Convert Signal to Frequency:
- Transform the ramp signal to a sine wave and measure frequency via zero crossings.
Calculate Time:
- Convert frequency (Hz) to milliseconds using mathematical operations (reciprocal and multiplication).
Modulate Release Time:
- Map the calculated milliseconds to the release time of the compressor, adjusting for the logarithmic nature of the control.

This approach, although complex and a bit "hacky," allows for dynamic adjustment of compressor release times based on BPM, ensuring more musical and consistent results.