If using MIDI, Gross Beat can be instructed to return to the previous scene as soon as the note is released, to go back after a new pattern has played through once, or to simply stay on the selected patch - handy for creating live fills and variations. This is done by clicking the relevant scene on the main interface, by striking a MIDI note, or by using MIDI CCs to scroll through the various modes on offer. The Time and Volume processors have 36 pattern slots per patch, making it easy to swap between them on the fly. Gross Beat offers plenty of potential for those looking to utilise its audio-mashing effects on the stage.

Likewise, moving the record back and forth for scratching is doable and, when combined with crossfader-style volume patterns, can mimic the effect fairly realistically.Īlternatively, using stepped points, the beat can be played from different positions, making it easy to perform cut-up effects. If you've used the Sample Offset parameter in Ableton Live's Clip Envelopes before, you'll be familiar with this concept.Ī virtual 'spinback' is made possible by creating a steep slope that takes the virtual stylus to two bars earlier over the space of a single beat. Any deviation from the top will result in the virtual record needle moving to some point into the past.

With this engaged, the Envelope Mapping Panel's vertical axis represents time, with real-time at the top of the grid, and two bars earlier at the bottom. This isn't a particularly sophisticated effect, but it comes into its own when combined with Gross Beat's Time manipulation mode. Using the Volume mode of the Envelope Mapping Panel, you can emulate a DJ's use of a crossfader to create rapid on-off stutters and swift fades. However, it is possible to change the snap resolution or turn it off entirely, and also select a variety of shapes, including various curves with definable gradients. Points are created on the display by right-clicking the panel, and by default these snap to eighth-notes and jump from one value to another, rather than ramping smoothly.

Gross beat for ableton mac