Without a doubt, MIDI transformation offers one of the most potent forms of creative expression. The Weird Quantizer -Live 12 MIDI Transform- 1.0, a noteworthy device by prolific creator Stev, offers users the opportunity to broaden their rhythmic horizons. Equipped with two Modes— namely, "Polyrhythm" and "Decimal"— this Max4Live device empowers users to experiment with a formulation of rhythms much beyond conventional signatures.
The Polyrhythm mode allows you to set up a base “Beat Unit”. Once the beat unit is set, you can specify the “# of Beats” parameter and the “Subdivision” parameter. These parameters are utilized to subdivide the number of beat units selected, creating the polyrhythmic quantization grid. An exciting aspect of Polyrhythm mode becomes evident when setting a 1/4 beat division, the “# of Beats” to 5, and the “Subdivision” parameter to 3. In such an arrangement, all notes are made to snap to a grid the size of three evenly spaced notes between five quarter-notes, introducing your ears to the intriguing rhythms of a 3/5 polyrhythm.
In contrast, Decimal mode takes the “Beat Unit” you've chosen and multiplies it by a floating point number. This result then sets the quantization grid. Selecting a 1/4 beat division and setting your “# of Beats” parameter to 1.29 will result in notes being quantized to every 1.29 quarter notes. The Decimal mode differs from the Polyrhythm mode by offering more irrational divisions, showcasing the exciting dynamic between order and chaos in your rhythms.
The Weird Quantizer -Live 12 MIDI Transform- 1.0 also includes a "Note Off" feature, allowing you to decide whether you want to quantize "note off" messages to the same grid. It's a little but powerful tool that gives you control over how your composition flows and ends.
Compatibility is crucial, and it reassures to know that this device has been crafted for Live 12 and higher, exploiting the latest features and efficiencies of the current Ableton environment. Furthermore, one look at the device and you'll be impressed by its straightforward and intuitive design, making it easy to tweak and experiment.
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In conclusion, Weird Quantizer -Live 12 MIDI Transform- 1.0 sets a new standard for MIDI transformation, placing powerful polyrhythmic madness at your fingertips. It offers an exciting fresh new perspective on rhythmic patterns, and for all musicians invested in Ableton Live, especially Live 12 users, exploring this device's capabilities promises to be a game-changing experience. Are you ready to unlock your creativity in new rhythmic terrain? Then the Weird Quantizer awaits!
Example Usage
Imagine you've laid down a straightforward chord progression in Ableton Live using a simple MIDI clip playing a grand piano from your sound library. It's pleasant but a bit too predictable for the eclectic electronic track you're crafting. You decide it's time to inject some polyrhythmic variety to spice things up with the 'Weird Quantizer -Live 12 MIDI Transform- 1.0' Max4Live device.
Step 1: Importing and Using the Weird Quantizer - Start by adding the 'Weird Quantizer' device to the MIDI track containing your chord progression. - With the device loaded, you'll see two main modes: 'Polyrhythm' and 'Decimal'. For this example, choose the 'Polyrhythm' mode. - Set the 'Beat Unit' to 1/4 to use quarter notes as your base unit.
Step 2: Setting the Polyphonic Parameters - In the '# of Beats' parameter, type in '7'. This choice means you're aiming for a rhythm that will span over seven beats. - For the 'Subdivision' parameter, enter '4'. This will divide those seven beats into four equal parts, effectively creating a 7:4 polyrhythm.
Step 3: Quantizing the Notes - Hit the spacebar to play your chord progression. As the Weird Quantizer is now active, it starts quantizing the incoming MIDI notes to fit the unconventional 7:4 rhythmic grid you've set, making your chords rhythmically stagger in an exciting new pattern. - If you wish to include your note-offs in this quantization to maintain the rhythmic integrity of your new polyrhythmic pattern, toggle the 'Note Off' switch to 'On'.
With these simple steps, novice users can start to explore the vast rhythmic possibilities offered by Weird Quantizer, transforming their MIDI sequences into captivating tapestries of sound with ease.
Let's dive into creating a dynamic polyrhythmic synth line using the Weird Quantizer - Live 12 MIDI Transform- 1.0. Suppose we're looking to inject some polyrhythmic madness into a house track that primarily revolves around a 4/4 time signature. We have a chord progression that we want to spice up with a unique rhythm.
First, insert the Weird Quantizer on a MIDI track that contains a polysynth playing chords. Set the device to "Polyrhythm" mode for this example.
- Decide on the base Beat Unit for the track, which since we're working with house, let it be a quarter note (1/4).
- Input a “# of Beats” value that is outside the standard 4/4 rhythm, say 7, to create a seven-beat pattern that will stretch across our four beats.
- At this point, we set the "Subdivision" parameter to 3. This means that our polyrhythm will have three evenly spaced notes across the seven-quarter note span.
- To audition the rhythm, play the chord progression. The Weird Quantizer will now quantize the incoming MIDI to this new 3 over 7 rhythm, making it repeat every 7 beats.
Remember, this can result in a long phrase over multiple bars of 4/4 before the pattern repeats, so let’s consider the musical context when setting these values.
Next, for some variation, we'll use the "Note Off" toggle:
- Activate the "Note Off" toggle to ensure that the note releases are also quantized to the same 3 over 7 grid. This step will ensure that the space between chords matches the quirky rhythmic grid we’ve defined.
Lastly, let’s venture into "Decimal" mode for a lead line that complements our polyrhythmic chords:
- Switch the Weird Quantizer to "Decimal" mode on a separate MIDI track with a mono synth lead.
- Keep the Beat Unit at 1/4 and this time enter a "# of Notes" value of 1.67, for a slightly off-kilter rhythm that seems to weave in and out of the polyrhythmic chords.
- Experiment by playing a simple melody or let a generative MIDI pattern play through the quantizer.
By setting two different types of rhythms – a complex polyrhythm for the chords and an irrational rhythm for the lead – you craft a sonically intriguing sequence that keeps your listeners engaged. The bizarre interplay between these rhythmic elements adds depth and complexity to your track, all thanks to the flexibility of the Weird Quantizer in Ableton Live.
Further Thoughts
Imagine you’re constructing a track with lush, evolving soundscapes, and you want to introduce an element that breaks the monotony of standard rhythmic patterns. This is where the 'Weird Quantizer -Live 12 MIDI Transform- 1.0’ Max4Live device galvanizes your production with polyrhythmic sophistication.
Let's dive into a detailed example of how to implement this creatively:
Start with a traditional 4/4 drum loop playing to set a familiar ground. Now, load up a MIDI track with a rich polyphonic synth sound that will act as the harmonic bedding. Record a simple chord progression or input it manually. It’s essential the progression has a flowing quality to enhance the effect of the Weird Quantizer.
Next, insert the 'Weird Quantizer' onto the MIDI track. Begin by setting the device to 'Polyrhythm' mode, as this will be the backbone of our creative rhythm exploration. Choose a 'Beat Unit' of 1/4 for a smooth integration within the 4/4 structure, set '# of Beats' to 5 to extend the rhythmic cycle beyond the conventional four beats, and adjust the 'Subdivision' parameter to 3. Now, our chords will syncopate across a 3/5 polyrhythm grid, inducing a unique tension with the primary drum loop.
Exploit the capability of the Weird Quantizer by experimenting with the 'Note Off' toggle. With this active, the release of each chord adheres to our unconventional grid. Suddenly, our progression is breathing, creating dynamic spaces and a sense of expectancy.
Let's evolve further. Introducing 'Decimal' mode, set your 'Beat Unit' to 1/8 and '# of Notes' to 1.29. You are now flirting with the edges of standard rhythm, placing notes in slightly off-kilter timings, ensuring your listeners cannot settle, compelled by the intricate rhythmic tapestry you're weaving.
To accentuate this, automate your 'Subdivision' parameter—perhaps increasing gradually over eight bars—to manifest a rhythmic crescendo that both confuses and thrills. Utilize Ableton Live's automation envelopes to control these parameters, introducing new rhythmic dispositions, steering the emotion of the track.
The outcome is a musical section that has shifted from a static environment to one alive with engaging polymetrics. Your synthesis has evolved, and your rhythm has shape-shifted, providing a bed for potential cutting-edge melodic improvisations or syncopated bass sequences.
The 'Weird Quantizer -Live 12 MIDI Transform- 1.0' isn't just a tool; it's a gateway to polyphonic madness that will challenge both you, as a producer, and the expectations of your audience. Explore, exploit, and expand ways to leverage this device's full potential to set your compositions apart in the vast expanse of electronic music creativity.