Zebra 2: making controller data non-linear?

[Mr D]

Is there a way to convert incoming controller date so it's non linear?

I know it's possible via a ModMapper, but that only works with a fixed set of controllers, like the modwheel.

But is it possible with, for example, controller 12?

And if so, how?

So, just to be clear, i want to make my controller data follow a non-linear curve.

Many thanks!

[Bronto Scorpio]

Maybe like this?



Just MIDI learn controller 12 to the constant knob of the ModMixer and you should be able to "bend" the controller data with the "via" knob in the mod matrix.

Just a quick idea. I haven't tried it myself.

Cheers
Dennis

[bmrzycki]

I experimented with this a few months ago. The easiest and most straightforward way to accomplish this is just use one of the built-in CC messages as the Modulator source in the ModMapper (Modwheel (CC1), Breath (CC2), Expression (CC11).

If you really, really need to use, say, CC18 here's how I did it:


1. pick some modulation target you want non-linear scaling on and select a ModMapper.
2. In the modmapper choose your type (I prefer MapSmooth for CC) and the source as "ENV2-4" ENV1 is usually used for Amp and 2 for Filter, so I tend to pick ENV4.
3. Draw your curve in the Modmapper
4. In the Envelope, set all the knobs to zero, use v-slope with the concave setting for super-fast attack response.
5. Now for the trick: Midi-Learn the Sustain knob for ENV4. Now when you play a note the ENV will trigger and hit sustain immediately. Since Zebra's Sustain knob can be adjusted while the ENV is triggered this becomes your input knob.

For what it's worth I suggested the ModMapper having 1 more mode: "Knob" and then a knob appears on the ModMapper that acts as the source. Bonus points if that knob can be modulated via the Matrix.

[Howard]

@bmrzycki: You can control the mod mixer 'Const' instead of envelope sustain.

[Mr D]

@bmrzycki....thanks a lot!........that works.......it's not ideal, but a good work-around.

@bmrzycki: You can control the mod mixer 'Const' instead of envelope sustain.

@Howard: Could you expand on that a bit? I don't understand, because you can't choose the mod mixer as the modulator in the ModMapper!

An A+B+C explanation would be champion!

(by the way, I've got a feeling this might be a better solution for us Abletonians!:
http://www.djtechtools.com/2012/02/16/m ... r-ableton/)

[Howard]

...you can't choose the mod mixer as the modulator in the ModMapper!

Ah yes, you're right - that's what comes from not having Zebra2 installed on my iPad! .

Here's a variation on brmzycki's suggestion: As ModMapper input use a global LFO (set to "user" wave, two steps both set to maximum) then remote-control LfoG1 amplitude.

[bmrzycki]

Here's a variation on brmzycki's suggestion: As ModMapper input use a global LFO (set to "user" wave, two steps both set to maximum) then remote-control LfoG1 amplitude.

Hi Howard, I tried that option -- unfortunately since all LFOs in Z2 are bipolar and we can't switch them to unipolar you effectively get 1/2 of the modmap to draw your curve.

I do agree that the LFOG solution is slightly better than mine for lots of note retriggers. The real solution is to have a knob on the ModMappers though.

[EvilDragon]

Would be nice to have "Unipolar" button on LFOs, too...

[Sendy]

Would be nice to have "Unipolar" button on LFOs, too...

+1 (a unipolar 1, not a bipolar 1)

[Howard]

...since all LFOs in Z2 are bipolar and we can't switch them to unipolar you effectively get 1/2 of the modmap to draw your curve.

Dang - foiled again.

[Urs]

...since all LFOs in Z2 are bipolar and we can't switch them to unipolar you effectively get 1/2 of the modmap to draw your curve.

Dang - foiled again.

Not a problem if you use, say, 8 steps only and benefit from linear interpolation inbetween :-p

(Zebra3 otoh will have a set of freely assignable Midi Control Changes for mod sources... that should do the trick...)

[CandeFan]

Use lfo with rate=0 and animate phase.?

[Howard]

Use lfo with rate=0 and animate phase.?

Tried that (good idea BTW). Doesn't quite work as expected, the phase appears to be "off".

[CandeFan]

Use lfo with rate=0 and animate phase.?

Tried that (good idea BTW). Doesn't quite work as expected, the phase appears to be "off".

Strange works with sin tri and square but not user or random!