polarity_music

Creating Responses - Capturing Spaces

Added 2024-01-10 16:49:22 +0000 UTC

In this Bitwig Studio tutorial, I demonstrate capturing impulse responses:

Generating Test Tones: Using Bitwig's test-tone device to create sine waves, adjusting loudness and frequency. Switching from sine to rack source for simpler impulses at 100% gain.
Bouncing and Editing: Bouncing selected impulses to a WAV file (post-fader, 32-bit, no dither). Then, isolating a single pulse in an audio editor, keeping initial ripples, and exporting it as 'Dirac1'.
Bitwig Sampler Setup: Deleting the test tone and using a sampler in Bitwig. Removing default modulators, importing 'Dirac1', disabling key tracking and velocity sensitivity. Setting voice and output gain to 0 dB, and sustain to maximum.
Reverb Capture and Creation: Utilizing Valhalla Supermassive reverb, setting mix to 100% for full wet signal. Creating a note clip as a trigger, and bouncing the output (up to 25 seconds max).
Convolution and Algorithmic Reverb Mixing: Loading the bounced file into a convolution device. Mixing with algorithmic reverb (like Bitwig's main reverb or Delay Plus) for a more dynamic sound. Shortening the impulse response for CPU efficiency and adding pitch modulation for character.
Final Adjustments and Exporting: Further editing the impulse response, adding fade-outs, and exporting. Testing the new reverb sound, noting its stereo nature and appropriate length.
Practical Application and Import Process: The tutorial concludes with insights on using convolution for rhythmic elements at a specific BPM, and tips on importing and categorizing impulse responses in Bitwig.

The tutorial emphasizes the concept of capturing the "flavor" of a reverb, rather than reproducing it exactly, and blending impulse and algorithmic reverbs for a more dynamic result. The process is also applied in real-life scenarios, like capturing environmental sounds with a smartphone.