For the arpeggiator and sequencer see Arpeggiator and Sequencer
LFO
The LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator) produces regular electronic variations which are too low to be heard when converted into audio vibrations. However, they can be used to modify various elements of the sound, producing regular changes in pitch (vibrato), pulse width or filter cut-off (two different controls on the harmonic content of the sound).
Speed Knob
This knob controls the rate at which these changes take place and a visual indication of the speed set is given by the flashing of the LED directly below this knob. Faster speeds are set by turning the knob to the right and are more suitable for vibrato and tremolo effects whilst slower speeds to the left are more pleasing for Pulse Width changes of harmonic content.
Delay Knob
This knob controls how long after the note is struck the LFO begins to take effect. If the knob is all the way to the left, the LFO effect will begin immediately. As the knob is turned to the right it will take increasingly longer for the LFO effect to be introduced. This is particularly useful for vibrato effects which if present (ie. when the Delay knob is all the way to the left) as the note is struck can make the note sound out of tune. By setting the LFO Delay to the right, the LFO effect will not be introduced until after the note is struck, thereby removing the problem. If you have problems getting the LFO to take effect, make sure the Delay knob is not set all the way to the right!
Shape Windows
This switch selects the waveform which defines the "shape" of the LFO movement. The options are as follows:
- TRI - Short for Triangle, this waveform gives the smoothest, continuous change in level to the LFO and is therefor probably the most generally useful setting. When routed to Pitch, it gives you vibrato (if used with higher speed and lesser depth) or a siren effect (with lower speed and greater depth). If routed to Filter Cut-off, a tremolo or "Leslie" effect results.
- SINE - The Sine waveform provides a smooth, cyclical rise and fall in the LFO level, creating a gentle, wave-like modulation. When routed to Pitch, it gives a natural vibrato effect with a rounded, mellow quality, ideal for subtle modulation. Applied to Filter Cut-off, the Sine waveform can produce a soft, sweeping effect, adding movement without sharp transitions.
- SAW - This waveform looks like the teeth of a saw (from which it gets it's name) and gives you a falling level which then jumps back up to the full level. Routed to the Filter Cut-off, it produces a rhythmic pulse effect, similar to a sequenced repeated bass line. Routing it to Pitch produces "alarm" type sounds.
- SQUARE - The Square waveform alternates sharply between two fixed levels, creating an on/off pattern for the LFO. When routed to Pitch, it produces a rapid, step-like pitch change, giving a siren or "beeping" effect. If routed to Filter Cut-off, the Square wave creates a choppy, rhythmic effect, perfect for gated or stuttering sounds.
- RANDOM - sometimes also referred to as Sample & Hold. At a regular interval (governed by the Speed knob), the level of the LFO jumps to a new random level and stays there until the next jump. This creates a rhythmic effect particularly if routed to the Filter Cut-off (see Filter Section). Routing this to Pitch gives a less musical result, but is useful for computer or machinery sound effects.
Sync Switch
When the Sync switch is set to On, the Rate is synchronised to the host DAW’s tempo and given in beats. In standalone mode, the tempo is set in the tempo window.
Retrig Switch
The Retrig (or Retrigger) switch is used to reset the phase of the LFO waveform each time a new note is played. Here's a detailed explanation of its function:
- Phase Reset: When the Retrig switch is engaged, the LFO will start its cycle from the beginning each time a new note is triggered. This ensures that the modulation effect starts in the same way for every note, providing a consistent and predictable sound.
- Without Retrig: If the Retrig switch is turned off, the LFO runs continuously, and the modulation effect will be at different points in its cycle for each new note played. This can result in a more fluid and evolving sound, as the modulation isn't reset with each note.