Music Production Knowledge Backlog
Here you can browse the latest published tutorials, guides, tools, articles, music posts, videos, and releases in one timeline. If you want a smaller overview, start with Polarity Music tutorials, Bitwig guides, Building Bitwig Grids, helpers, articles, music videos, releases, or the music hub. If you want something specific, use the search.
In this video, I demonstrate a simple and straightforward method to maintain consistent volume levels when using an EQ on a track, by using a grid patch with a follower to match the input and output volumes. I also showcase how this technique can be applied creatively across multiple tracks to dynamically modulate volumes or match frequency curves using band-splitting. Lastly, I emphasize the versatility and practicality of this approach for enhancing mixes and provide a preset download for convenience.
In this video, I introduce new features to my controller script, Retrospect, which now includes built-in functionality to correct out-of-scale notes directly, eliminating the need for a separate key filter in Bitwig. This update allows users to record the correct notes in a desired scale directly into a note clip, simplifying the process and saving time. I also provide guidance on how to download and set up the script, and welcome feedback and feature requests from viewers.
What is retrospective recording in Bitwig, how do you use it, and is it the same as MIDI capture? This guide explains how to capture MIDI after playing, compare the workflow, and use it for songwriting and live jamming.
In this video, I discuss the issues surrounding Bitwig's EQ Plus, specifically the phase shift problem that occurs when it's used in parallel processing, which can create a frequency notch at the top end. While EQ Plus works fine when used on its own or in parallel with another EQ Plus, the EQ5 is preferable for parallel processing with different devices due to its lack of phase shift. I hope Bitwig addresses this issue in future updates, as it's a long-standing problem, but in the meantime, knowing these differences can help users decide which EQ to use in specific scenarios.
In the video, I discuss updates and features for openDAW, addressing viewer concerns and emphasizing its focus on accessibility and openness, including offline usage through PWA and potential self-hosting options. I highlight recent additions like project bundling, sample imports, and automation clips while encouraging viewers to attend a Discord meeting with the developer for further engagement. Additionally, I clarify misunderstandings about the application's cost and intentions, promoting its future as a free and open-source tool.
In this video, I introduced my new Chord Maker controller script for Bitwig Studio, which creates simple diatonic chord progressions in the piano roll. It allows users to choose modes, re-voice notes, and add bass or seventh notes, providing a great starting point for music creation with the ability to customize further. I also provided instructions on accessing and troubleshooting the script, inviting feedback for potential improvements.
In this video, I introduce and explore RipplerX, a new and completely free open-source physical modeling plug-in that works across Mac, Windows, and Linux. It offers a simple, straightforward interface without effects or excessive modulation features, allowing users to focus on crafting sounds through its resonator configurations. I appreciate its low storage requirement and encourage viewers to try it out, highlighting the link in the description for easy download.
In this video, I explored Bitwig Studio by using the Delay 1 device to create extended looping effects without relying on a VST. By chaining multiple delay units and incorporating quantization, I achieved synchronized, polyrhythmic loops that can be layered to produce ambient tracks effortlessly. I shared this technique as a straightforward yet powerful way to innovate within Bitwig Studio, inviting viewers to try it themselves and share their experiences.
I'm introducing openDAW, a new digital audio workstation that's completely free, open source, and runs in your web browser, making it accessible for everyone without requiring any login or subscription. Created by Andre Michel, who has a rich history in web-based audio tools, openDAW is a prototype designed to provide music-making capabilities from beginners to experts without any cost or restrictions. If you're interested in getting involved or giving feedback, you can join the openDAW Discord channel, where a prototype party is currently underway.
I've fixed issues with the scale maker script related to hard-coded variables and enhanced the melody maker by adding more scales and modes that are shared between both scripts. Users can now download a separate scales file to customize or share their scales, and there's an updated feature that allows the clip name to reflect the chosen scale. Check my GitHub for the necessary files, and feel free to provide feedback or suggest further improvements.
I wanted to express my gratitude to my long-time and new Patreons, who allow me to provide free content and maintain an open-source approach by supporting me financially. I'm excited to share updates on upcoming projects like the Melody Maker, Scale Maker, and a new chord progression tool, which I plan to release soon. I'm also participating in a podcast today and will likely create another video tomorrow, so stay tuned!
In this video, I'm introducing Scale Maker, a script designed to help improve your experience in the piano roll by allowing you to fit notes to a chosen scale and even prevent wrong notes from being painted. I also discuss the integration with Melody Maker, enhancements made to the scripts, and how to install them via GitHub, despite some users experiencing issues with Windows Defender. Let me know your thoughts in the comments, and feel free to download and try it out for free.
In this video, I introduced a new script I created for Bitwig Studio that addresses user complaints about the piano roll by generating random melodies in chosen scales with various customizable options like rest probability, note length variation, and octave start. The script is still experimental, and I'm seeking feedback from viewers to improve it, with plans to develop more features in the future. You can find the script in the description or on my GitHub or Patreon, and using it involves downloading a JavaScript file and setting it up in Bitwig's controller settings.
In this video, I demonstrate an alternative method for matching frequency content and tonal balance in Bitwig Studio using native tools like FX3, peak limiter, and compressor. By analyzing and adjusting the frequency ranges, you can effectively match your mix to a reference track without the need for external plugins. It's a straightforward and insightful approach to help ensure your mix is balanced and comparable to professional standards.
In my video, I demonstrated how to use the Oculus Spatializer plugin to create immersive spatial sounds by positioning audio sources around the listener's head using headphones for best effect. I showed how layering, stretching, and positioning sounds can craft a wide, binaural soundscape, enhancing pads and drones with increased spatial depth. The plugin is free, and I shared a link in the description for those interested in trying it out.
In this video, I demonstrate how to replicate the silencer effect in Bitwig Studio using native tools. By utilizing a chain container with a reverb plug-in and modulating it with an ADSR, I can reset the reverb tail with each new note. This technique may not match the silencer plug-in's quality, but it provides a similar effect using Bitwig's native capabilities.