August 31, 2023: Live sampling of Fender Rhodes with Octatrack Mk2, iPad and Blackbox

Here's a live, improvised sketch in which I sample various pieces of my Mark 1 Rhodes through my Octatrack, Blackbox, and iPad.I've always been deeply fascinated with all of the mechanical noises inside the Rhodes, as well as the possibilities to expand on its bell-like tones.
On the Octatrack, I have 3 thru machines affecting the sound of the Rhodes line output (through a Sansamp Para Driver DI for EQ), omni mics positioned near the tines (monitored through a Sony handheld recorder), and a contact microphone. The other tracks are flex tracks with which I sample and loop these sound sources. The crossfader controls the volume of the DI Rhodes sound.
The blackbox is playing back sampled noise from the output of the Rhodes (static, hissing, pops) that I recorded beforehand. I also have it set to receive and sample/loop audio that I send from the iPad on outputs 3/4 of the interface.
The iPad is running AUM. Most of the work is done by Samplr to loop certain sounds, but I also use Loopy Pro as well as eventide Blackhole for spacious reverb.
The audio is taken directly from the session with a bit of volume boost and limiter applied in post. No other adjustments or edits were made.
You can buy my music on Bandcamp here: andrewtasselmy...
Additionally, I maintain a blog on Substack in which I detail my processes and thoughts behind the music I make: andrewtasselmy...
Reach me anytime through my website: www.andrewtass...

[@sulkrooms]

Loved this. Digging in fully during the week!

[@andrewtasselmyer2436]

Awesome! hope you enjoy, my friend!

[@lifeluxury1719]

Absolute banger

[@andrewtasselmyer2436]

Thank you!

[@tomjepson2295]

Andrew. Again, so good. Your control of 'randomness' is nothing short of incredible and the music you make with such control is equally as magnificent. Always happy to hear new things and cheerlead you from across the pond!

[@andrewtasselmyer2436]

Thanks so much, Tom. I really appreciate the kind words. I love the risks and rewards of pursuing randomness…awesome to hear you’ve picked up on that. All the best to you!

[@Hessencemusic]

Wow... I've just discovered your channel and I'm completely amazed of it! thank you so much for sharing it. Suscribed!!

[@andrewtasselmyer2436]

Thanks so much. I really appreciate it!

[@Hessencemusic]

@@andrewtasselmyer2436 BTW...I've decided to follow your steps and add iPad into my setup. Not only for use with DAW (my metric halo also supports direct iOS USB connection), but also it works with expert sleepers ES-9 or TX-6. So a big journey in front of me. I also own Octatrack, and I'd appreciate any hint about how to use it in parallel for ambient. Thanks

[@Sinnersainthuman]

Really enjoyed this Andrew. What’s this application on the ipad?

[@andrewtasselmyer2436]

Thank you! The main mixing/DAW application is called AUM. The sampling app is called Samplr (spelled just like that with no e)

[@aquietgarden]

Wonderful. Are you still using the iConnectivity Audio4c interface?

[@andrewtasselmyer2436]

Thank you! Yes, still using the 4c.

[@mizazu75]

beautiful music! Octatreack or Black Box?

[@andrewtasselmyer2436]

Thank you! I love and use both. Very different devices.