Lag module / smoothed random
Nikolozi
Mela 5.4 beta
build 270
adds the Smooth parameter for smoothing out the random signal. I think there's space for a dedicated smoothing module (so I'll leave this issue open) but this build should address Peter's original request at least.Nikolozi
Merged in a post:
slew module for modulation signals
Jon Diercks
Something like this: https://shop.befaco.org/full-kits/76-vc-slew-limiter-diy-kit.html
I want some aspects of a patch to follow expressive control like breath, but lagging way behind, so for example a drone/pad bed can swell up and down very slowly in response to the intensity of the lead line being performed on top of it.
Nikolozi
Oh right, I think you want a module/feature related to this https://mela-feedback.nikolozi.com/feature-requests/p/lag-module-smoothed-random
A Module that takes a modulation signal and produces a smoothed out version, and you set the smoothing rate. Is this correct? And have Attack and Decay controls?
Jon Diercks
Nikolozi: Sure, those two requests could be combined into one module. The damping curves and/or physics-based behavior could be really useful too.
Jon Diercks
Hi Nikolozi,
Just a bump for this thread to indicate I'd still very much like to see the addition of a proper slew module to Mela. It's one of the few things that I still find myself going back to miRack for frequently, even if everything else I'm doing for a project is in Mela. Separate controls for Rise and Fall time, with a range from zero to at least 30 or even 60 seconds, would be very welcome, as well as adjustable curves like the Envelope Generator.
Nikolozi
Hey Jon Diercks, which module is that in miRack? I'll have a closer look.
I imagine this modulator module would work something like this in Mela:
- It will have the Source parameter in [-100%, 100% range]
- Also, Attack, Release, AttackCurve, ReleaseCurve parameters
- Changing the Source value from 0% to 100% will generate a modulator signal that takes the Attack amount of time to make the rise. From 100% to 0% Release amount of time for the fall.
- And you would modulate the Source parameter from another modulator as a way of adding the lag to that modulator signal.
Is this what you are after?
As a side note, I do plan to design some sort of a modulator builder/transformer system/module/lane at some point that will let you easily create a chain of small modules where you can manipulate/process the modulator signal before directing it to targets. Hopefully, this will let users create custom modulators. But I'll have to make time for it and think about how it will fit with all the other current and future features. But in the meantime, the Lag module can cook in Mela Lab :)
Jon Diercks
Nikolozi There are a few slew modules to choose from in miRack (see below). I usually use that smallest one on the right, the NYSTHI one, mostly because it offers the longest lag time range (up to 100sec). And yes, the way you describe the functionality is exactly what I’m looking for.
I’ve seen some of the discussions in other threads about a “builder” module or other mechanism to create custom modules, and that sounds great, very powerful, so by all means please keep that idea in the pipeline.
Still, a dedicated Slew module seems like a staple of modular synth design, and it would make sense to simmer it in the Lab with the hope of someday graduating it to full-citizen status with other modules. :-)
Nikolozi
Jon Diercks Cheers! I’ll bump this up in priority in my bug tracker.
Nikolozi
Yes, that's a great suggestion. I do plan to add the smoothing feature, there are a several ways to go about it. As you suggested, I may even end up adding both options. Haven't had time to properly think about it yet though.
One question, if I add the option to the Random module, would an a) exponential, b) a linear curve or c) adjustable curve would be preferable?
Peter Todd
Nikolozi: personally, I would use exponential damp 1-pole filter type design. Adjustable curve always appealing as an option, and in the context of random module linear sort of makes sense… but for me personally, for many years when I’m adding some nice movement quality to animation of graphics or sound, exponential damping is my go-to (followed by mass-spring physics…).