Polarity Music Tutorials

In this video, I demo the new Time 12 plugin, which is a free, open-source time shaper/delay buffer now available on all major platforms, and I showcase its new sequencer feature along with some creative uses for ambient sound design in Bitwig. I walk through generating random waveforms, manipulating playback speed and pitch with the sequencer, and layering additional effects like reverb and delay for more texture, plus I highlight similar updates in Gate 12. If you’re interested, the download link is in the description, please like, subscribe, and consider donating to support the developer!

Is Bitwig Studio worth it in 2025? This review explains Bitwig's best features, the main pros and cons, and why producers choose it for modulation, The Grid, plugin sandboxing, and Linux support.

Last week, I attended Superbooth in Berlin, where I checked out a lot of synth and software gear, including a standout product from GRM Tools called Atelier, a semi-modular VST focused on sound design and ambience that really impressed me with its intuitive interface and high-quality sound. Developed by just two people (one being a musician), Atelier reminds me of Bitwig’s modular approach and looks promising for creative sound exploration, especially with its excellent modulation options and channel routing features. Look out for its release in September, I’ve included a link to their site below if you want to stay updated!

In this video, I demonstrate the new Gate 12 plugin, a free and open source audio gate that now works on Windows, Mac, and Linux, with added features like audio and MIDI triggers, sidechaining, and a paint mode for custom envelopes. I show how to use it in Bitwig to gate a bassline using both audio and MIDI triggers, highlighting its flexibility and ease of use. If you need a feature-rich, cross-platform, and free alternative to plugins like LFO Tool or VolumeShaper, check out Gate 12 via the link in the description.

In this video, I show you how to use formulas in Serum's wavetable editor to create unique waveforms by manipulating variables like X, V, and Q. By focusing on simple mathematical expressions and randomization, you can generate interesting sound variations across different harmonic bins. Experiment with these techniques to expand your sound design possibilities in Serum.

In this video, I explain why I don't use the buttons and features of the Bitwig Connect 4/12, preferring the efficiency of keyboard and mouse controls in Bitwig Studio. The device is well-built and integrates nicely, but features like the big knob and transport controls don't fit my workflow. While it's a great audio interface, it doesn't fully meet my needs or preferences.

Today, I'm excited to introduce the Roto Controller by Melbourne Instruments and its new Bitwig integration, currently in beta. This controller, while perhaps not the ultimate MIDI controller, is unique for its tactile feedback and innovative mapping features. With modes for MIDI, plugins, and mixing, it offers a highly intuitive experience that you can try out at Superbooth or the Bitwig booth.

In this video, I showcase the Bitwig Connect 4/12 and share some creative patching ideas using it, even if you don't own an external synthesizer. I demonstrate how to convert digital signals to analog and back to digital, utilizing feedback loops for distortion and creative sound effects. The convenience of having input and output jacks readily accessible makes it easy and fun to experiment, and I plan to share more tips in future videos.

In this video, I recommend two open-source, free plugins: Gate1 and Time1. Gate1 is great for shaping volume with precision, offering features like waveform visualization that you won't find in similar tools. Time1 allows you to manipulate delay time for creative effects like halftiming or simulating turntables.

In this video, I dive into the free Filter plugin by blepfx, exploring its features, including various filter modes, modulation options, and its unique interface controls like middle mouse button clicks. I demonstrate its sound capabilities and how it can be used in a music production setup, noting its integration with Bitwig. I encourage viewers to try it out, highlighting its versatility and recommending other free plugins from the developer.

In today's video, I explored the Concatenator by DataMind Audio, a unique granular audio effect that uses samples from your hard drive to replace the input signal, matching pitch and dynamics with a clever algorithm. It offers various customizable grain settings and can create interesting textures and ambient sounds, making it a versatile tool for music production. There's a seven-day trial available, and I find it an innovative concept worth checking out.

In this video, I introduce a fun script called TextMaker for Bitwig that lets you write text melodically in a note clip using scales like natural minor. You can experiment with different settings like text width, height, and gap to create unique note arrangements, although it's primarily meant as a humorous project. Let me know if you'd like me to expand on it or explore other creative ideas for the piano roll!

Learn what crest factor means in mixing and mastering, how to measure compression, and how to compare track dynamics more accurately.

In this video, I demonstrate how to use expansion to make drum samples from libraries fit better in a mix by stretching the dynamic range. Using Bitwig Studio, I highlight methods like the dynamics module, compressor plus, and transfer curve to enhance the groove and dynamics of over-compressed samples. This approach helps create a cohesive mix where all sounds blend seamlessly.

In this video, I introduce the latest update to my melody maker script, showcasing new features that allow for more expressive and randomized sequences with just one click. I demonstrate how the updates include randomized parameters like timbre, pressure, and release velocity, as well as advanced options like motif development and rhythmic emphasis for creating more dynamic melodies. Additionally, I discuss some technical challenges with the API and share plans for upcoming updates to my other music scripts.

In this video, I showcase my third iteration of a physical modeling piano preset I've crafted using Bitwig Studio, which you can download for free in the description. This version uses comp filters, noise bursts, and other techniques to create a more convincing piano sound than my previous attempts, with various adjustable knobs for mechanical noises and tuning effects. I'm open to feedback and encourage viewers to tweak the preset and share their improvements.