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EXi Program P5: Modulation 5–1: Common Step Seq
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EXi Program P5: Modulation
The entire Program shares several modulation sources,
including:
• A single Common LFO, shared by all the voices -
similar to the global LFO on some vintage analog
synths
• A single Common Step sequencer, shared by all the
voices
• Two Common Key Tracking generators, which are
set up for the entire Program, but then calculated
individually for each voice
These pages let you set up these Program-wide
modulation sources.
5–1: Common Step Seq
The Common Step Sequencer creates complex,
rhythmic patterns, which can then be used as an AMS
source. For instance, you can modulate a filter to create
sample-and-hold effects, modulate pitch to create
melodic patterns, or modulate amplitude to create
pulsing, triggered-gate effects.
The sequence can have up to 32 steps, each with its
own level and duration. It can loop, or play only once.
You can also:
• Re-start the Step Sequencer via AMS
• Modulate the Start Step via AMS
• Use individual steps to either gate or do sample-
and-hold on a continuous AMS source, such as an
LFO
• Assign individual steps to create a random level
• Use Smoothing to create gentle, curving shapes
Differences from per-voice Step Sequencers
There is only a single Common Step Sequencer shared
by the entire Program. It starts running as soon as you
select the Program, and only resets when you tell it to
do so explicitly via the Sequencer Reset parameter.
This is different from the per-voice Step Sequencer’s
Key Sync Off setting, which resets whenever all notes
are released.
(However, you can create a similar behavior, if you
like; see the Sequencer Reset parameter for more
information.)
The Common Step Sequencer’s persistence can be
handy if you want to create a constant rhythm, and
then play “underneath” that rhythm without re-
triggering it. For instance, you can use a MIDI
controller in your sequencer to reset the Common Step
Sequencer every few bars, regardless of what notes are
being played.
Creating melodic patterns with the Step Sequencer
You can use the Step Sequencer to modulate synthesis
parameters, such as filter cutoff– and you can also use
it to create melodic patterns. To do so:
1. Assign the Step Sequencer as an AMS source for
Pitch.
2. Set the AMS intensity to +25.
3. In the Step Sequencer, set the step values as
desired. Each increment of 4 equals a semitone.
5–1PMC5–1d
5–1a
5–1b
5–1c
5–1a