Now that you understand how to create a pattern let's dissect
one. Please study the following picture of an average pattern (in this case,
the
Geonik's PrimiFun
).
Pattern Editor Elements:
1. Track Number
: The 0 at the top of this track indicates the
current track number. "Tracks" are what add
polyphony
to most Aldrin machines. More on
Tracks
later.
2. Pattern Editing area:
A very confusing aspect
to most new Aldrin users is the matrix of dots they are presented with when
creating a single pattern. These dots appear randomly sorted into columns
of 1, 2, 3 or 4.. While this might at first seem chaotic and random, it
is very easy to understand. Each set of dots in the pattern relates to one
parameter for this machine. More on
rows and columns
later.
3. Row Numbers
: The numbers 0 to 15 on the left indicate the row
numbers of the current pattern. These numbers can range anywhere from just
plain 0 (1 row) to 0-8191 (8192 rows). Why does it start at 0 you ask? Because...
4. Column Data:
The numbers appearing in this
column have been added in order to
automate
a parameter of this machine.
5. Note Data:
The items appearing down the first
column indicate that notes have been added. In this case, a C of the 5th
octave. These will play as the song progresses through this pattern.
6. Darker Rows:
Every 4th row in Aldrin is shaded
a slightly darker color (in this case a mid-gray) to indicate that it is
a 4th row. This helps when editing in 4/4 beats (which Aldrin is based on).
Also note that every 16 notes Aldrin adds an even darker color (in this example
Blue) to indicate a 16th row. This just helps when visually placing notes.
You
should not completely understand a Aldrin pattern based simply on these instructions,
so keep reading. It will become clear shortly as you read and
experiment.