The SASIO MIDI Chord Generator 1.0, an innovative Max4Live device by 'randomknobs', invokes the charming simplicity of the Casio PT-20, recreating its unique chord sequencing ability in a modern context. Influenced by the PT-20's chord section, this device utilises two sequencers that control chord roots and modifiers, constructed to give you an authentic, interactive music-making experience. Users can Click the moon icon to introduce new sequences, bringing a playful spontaneity to harmonic progression. Capable of working seamlessly with any AU/VST or polyphonic hardware synth, the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator 1.0 exudes versatility in any production circumstance.
This device subtly shifts away from conventional chord generators as it doesn't utilize a fixed scale logic system. This intentional design choice provides users with absolute freedom to sculpt their own harmonic landscapes, unrestricted by conventional music theory. It opens up endless possibilities for those hungry to experiment with unorthodox chordal arrangements and refresh their music with a touch of unpredictability. A great tool for electronic composers, lovers of vintage sounds and experimentalists alike.
The SASIO MIDI Chord Generator also incorporates a straightforward, user-friendly interface. You can easily adjust the duration of the chord sequence and the speed of chord steps, which is an invaluable feature for finetuning your creative process. Plus, the built-in preset bank allows you to save sequences for future use, saving you time and effort during your future Ableton sessions.
The device has been designed with 'randomknobs' flair for accessible, interactive design that enhances creative workflows. As featured on the maxforlive.com library, this tool proves to be an indispensable addition to your Ableton live session, whether you're after the jazz effect or seventh heaven. To start channeling the spirit of Casio PT-20 into your Ableton Live sessions, visit the randomknobs site or the following link to download the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator 1.0: https://maxforlive.com/library/device/10118/sasio-midi-chord-generator.
Remember, this is a commercial license product, meaning you're not just investing in a digital tool, but you’re also supporting the creative efforts behind this unique MIDI device. Unlock retro harmony with SASIO MIDI Chord Generator, and let the spirit of vintage charm and uncharted musical exploration sound through your speakers.
Example Usage
Imagine you've just loaded up SASIO MIDI Chord Generator into your Ableton Live project, and you're ready to add some Vintage-style chords to your track, reminiscent of the classic Casio PT-20. Here's a simple way to start exploring the retro harmonies that this device can produce, even if you're new to music production or Max4Live devices.
- After installing the device, drag and drop the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator onto a MIDI track.
- Load up a polyphonic synth that has that classic retro sound you're aiming for. It can be an AU/VST or a hardware synth if you have one connected.
- Click on the moon icon in the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator to generate a new chord sequence. This will automatically craft a progression for you, freeing you up from having to know the ins and outs of music theory.
- You will see two sequencers. The first one sets the root note of your chords. The second sequencer adds a chord modifier, which could be anything from a major to a diminished chord. Don't hesitate to click around and listen to the changes.
- To set the pace of your chord progression, adjust the 'Speed' knob to match the tempo of your track.
- If you want your chords to change faster or slower, play with the 'Duration' setting, which will determine how long each chord is held.
- Once you have a sequence that you like, you can use the preset bank to save it. This means you can revisit the same progression in future sessions or songs.
As a beginner, it's important not to get overwhelmed by the complexity that some devices offer. With the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator, you can instantly inject a dose of nostalgia into your music while experimenting and learning about chord progressions and their modifiers. Enjoy crafting your tunes with the ease and inspiration of the vintage Casio PT-20 era!
Imagine you’re scoring an 80s-inspired synthwave track in Ableton Live, weaving in lush, nostalgic chords that remind you of neon lights and retro arcades. Here’s how you can enhance your composition with the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator:
First, install the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator by downloading it from the provided link and dragging the downloaded device into your Ableton Live set. Create a new MIDI track and set up your desired polyphonic synth plugin - something that has those warm, analog tones would be perfect for this genre.
Start by experimenting with the root note sequencer of the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator. Instead of using a static progression, try programming a dynamic sequence that walks up and down the scale to create a sense of movement. Set the sequence duration to 4 bars for a steady harmonic rhythm, and the speed of chord steps to a quarter note for a classic pulsating effect.
Next, use the chord modifier sequencer to add some color to the harmonies. For an intermediate challenge, skip the ‘generate new sequence’ function for now and manually create variations by selecting different modifiers for each step. Mix in major, minor, and even suspended chord modifiers to add emotional depth to your sequence.
Dive deep into making your track truly unique by tweaking each modifier. This will require some trial and error to find the perfect blend, but it will be worth it for the custom chordal textures you will achieve. If you find a sequence you particularly like, utilize the preset bank to save it for later use or to incorporate it into other sessions.
Now, route the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator’s MIDI output to your synth plugin. You'll hear the chords come to life through your selected sounds. As you play, adjust the mix until the chords sit nicely within your track, adding equalization and effects as necessary for the full retro vibe.
Lastly, record the output of your synth track to capture the harmonically rich sequence. Once recorded, you can further manipulate the MIDI data or bounce it down to audio for additional processing. The SASIO MIDI Chord Generator 1.0 doesn’t impose scale logic, so feel free to experiment with out-of-the-box harmonies that give your music a signature sound.
The ability to easily generate and manipulate complex chord progressions will not only make your synthwave track stand out, but also instill in it the genuine spirit of the Casio PT-20 era. Whether you're a fan of the retro aesthetic or looking to push the boundaries of your musical creativity, the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator is an essential tool for any level of Ableton Live user.
Further Thoughts
Imagine you're designing a track that takes its listeners on a nostalgic journey back to the era of chirpy, lo-fi video game music with a modern twist. To begin, you'll need to concoct a harmonious backdrop that pays homage to the charm of the Casio PT-20's chord capabilities, and the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator by randomknobs is your tool of choice for this creative endeavor.
First, set the stage by selecting a nostalgic, yet crisp and punchy chip-tune style synth patch within your go-to VST instrument, ensuring it complements the retro aesthetic you're aiming for. Now, open the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator and position it before your chosen instrument in Ableton Live's MIDI chain.
Start by navigating the dual sequencer interface of the device, where you'll craft the foundation of your harmonic progression. The first sequencer will determine the root notes of your chords. Dial in a sequence that harks back to the catchy baselines of old-school video game music, using the built-in randomization feature for spontaneous inspiration or manually entering notes that reminisce 8-bit anthems.
Next, you'll harness the secondary sequencer to apply one of the eight chord modifiers to your root notes, skewing them into augmented, diminished, major, or minor voicings – or any of the other exotic options on offer. This feature revives the simplicity of the Casio PT-20's one-finger chord play while giving you the freedom to venture into harmonies that are unbound by traditional scale logic.
Once you've established your chord progression, weave dynamism into your piece by adjusting the sequence duration and the speed at which chord steps progress. This will allow you to synchronize the emotional cadence of your track with your envisioned tempo, lending it either the urgency of an 8-bit chase scene or the leisurely pace of a pixelated landscape exploration.
Now, with your chords rolling, automate parameters within the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator. For example, program changes in the modifier sequence to bring about unexpected harmonic shifts, illustrating a scenario where your game's character stumbles upon new terrains or challenges. The lack of scale logic used ensures that these transitions can be delightfully unpredictable, yet musically satisfying.
To further accentuate the retro ambiance, apply some light bit-crushing and creative delay effects to the output channel of your VST instrument, thus reinforcing the lo-fi quality that is reminiscent of the Casio PT-20's character.
Finally, the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator's preset bank feature allows you to save your curated sequences. This guarantees that you can revisit them for future projects or develop different sections of your track while maintaining harmonic coherence.
With the SASIO MIDI Chord Generator at your command, you'll unlock a realm where the charm of 80s electronic toys meets the unlimited potential of modern music production. Your audience will be treated to a sophisticated blend of yesteryear’s tones and today's sonic clarity – a retro harmony reimagined for contemporary ears.