Granular Synthesis (MicroGranny Edition)

[@tristan-deniet]

to clarify, you cannot change the position of the grains manually while the sound is playing? It seems the closest you can get to that is changing the start time in between triggers or changing the speed/direction of the scanning. Is that true? A bit of a bummer to me as I really liked the rest of it, but that might make me look for another device.

[@undulations]

@@tristan-deniet Well, I think I need to get it out and check that🤔. It's a good question that I feel like I should be sure about answering. I'll follow up with the findings. That said, do you use Koala Sampler (available on various platforms)? I like it a lot. Their treatment of sampling has gotten more "granular friendly" over time, and using it with a midi controller makes it even more suited (because the on-screen behavior is dragging around the sample edges, but with midi you can move the start [with a mapped knob] and the sample side stays fixed, so a slide-able window). It isn't automatic, ie scanning, but I think I've used AUM and some other app that automates midi out to hack some scanning. Thanks for checking out the video🙏🏼!

[@tristan-deniet]

@@undulations Looks cool, but I'm mostly looking for a hardware granular synth. The microgranny was definitely attractive for the price, but I think just barely unusable for my purposes. There's really only a handful of hardware granular synths and most of them are very expensive, unfortunately.

[@undulations]

@ Ever thought about a Model:Samples? I feel like I've learned quite a bit about granular since doing the M:S granular video on here, need to revisit it. Also, about Koala. I totally understand about wanting a hardware granular synth, was skeptical of apps in general - but Spacecraft Granular was the first one to really change that. Then Koala generally changed how I do a lot of stuff. I guess it's not really intended for audio editing but I like it for that. It also has DAW-like features that I really need to use more.

[@tristan-deniet]

@@undulations I've def looked at the model samples, but not for granular stuff. Are you saying it can do granular things? I actually finally found what appears to be my solution last night. The Sonicware Liven Texture Lab. Very similar form factor and price point to the model devices, looks like it has what I need and a bit more!

[@christianscazzieri]

I can't even begin to say how helpful this video was to me. Thanks for posting!

[@undulations]

Hey, absolutely! Thank you very much for the feedback🙏🏼

[@christianscazzieri]

@@undulations Thank you! 🙏

[@adamcrafts3645]

Cosign this, extremely helpful. Few things I didn't know about that little box

[@gabrielvelea5785]

amazing demos of MicroGranny's capabilities and very thorough tutorial! Thank you

[@undulations]

Thank you very much🙏🏼! I really appreciate the feedback!

[@tonywharton5220]

I'm loving the MicroGranny. Will definitely be adding one to my collection after Christmas. Thanks for a brilliant video.

[@undulations]

I'm glad to hear that! The MicroGranny has certainly grown on me - so portable and straightforward to work with. Thanks for watching!

[@strangersun7721]

Always thoughtful and absorbing. Love what you do.

[@undulations]

Thanks very much for checking it out🙏🏼!

[@KristianSolli]

I'm about receive a MicroGranny 2 in the mail and this was a really great introduction. Calming voice as well. Thanks!

[@undulations]

Hey, glad to hear that this video was helpful. Making the video really changed my perspective on the MG2. I continue to use it for many things (just got it out again yesterday, in fact). Thanks a lot for watching🙏🏼!

[@JakobHaq]

Thanks for the watch and thank you so much for the shout out! Also thank you “surreal” for pointing me to this video! ❤

[@undulations]

Hey, thanks so much for checking the video out🙏🏼! Your channel has always been an inspiration, showing how amazing mobile can be! Best wishes😀!

[@undulations]

ps I did a MG clip for Jamuary on Instagram a while back; the shot turned out pretty nice (pinned over there, dr_nim2014).

[@neilyounger7585]

I can't wait for your video about the Model Sample's granular synthesis possibilities!

[@undulations]

You bet! Thanks for watching. The updates since the first M:S video I did will open a lot of doors. ps just in case, link to that first one is kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5WphKqFjLFgqsU

[@senorcoconut5635]

Looking forward to the model cycles granular video. Very interesting as usual. Thanks.

[@undulations]

Thank you for the feedback!

[@neilpatrickhairless]

Clicked like for the sampler but also for the Buddhist monk and his pumpkins

[@undulations]

"Clicked like for the Sampler, but also Buddhist Monk and his pumpkins." It makes a nice haiku. Thanks for watching🙏🏼!

[@tybowesformerlygoat-x7760]

Great stuff, man. I love your presentation style, too - thorough and understated... (similar to Loopop). As I'm listening to this, the rain is falling outside, and I can hear it through a window to my left and a door to my right (in a van), so in glorious, spacial stereo. Thanks again for your work.

[@undulations]

That sounds fantastic :) I appreciate the feedback🙏🏼!

[@marcwav]

wow what timing, i just built mine and switched it on 5 minutes ago!

[@undulations]

Cool! Kudos for building it🏆!

[@PampaSynths]

I was waiting for a new Undulations video! and as always, thanks for sharing your knowledge! Also want to tell you that I'm learning a lot with your videos and that encouraged me to upload a couple of videos on my fist jams using a volca drum with a pocket operator and a monotron delay. If sometime you have the time, it would be an honor if you could take a look and tell me what you think. Saludos Dr.!

[@undulations]

Sure, I will check them out👍🏻! Thank you for the feedback, means a lot!

[@waveland58]

Thanks for making this video. I ended up buying a Microgranny (MG Monolith) after considering the various options. I find it very fun to play with, and to add into my music creations. The file management, however, is sure cumbersome.

[@undulations]

Agreed. It feels like I'm playing some sort of retro videogame, with the special LED font, etc. Thanks for checking out the video!

[@matthewwilson3673]

cool intro, was considering getting the tasty chips gr1 because that slider looks like heaven to touch

[@undulations]

Yes! That thing looks next level cool✨! Thanks for checking out the video🙏🏼!

[@christhedemocrat]

Well done sir. Very informative and inspiring

[@undulations]

Thanks very much for checking it out🙏🏼!

[@londonshammer]

thank you, i love your insightful videos, i am a mega consumer teenager still, with all the stimulating entertainment ready available, yet i still find these your videos do exceptional job of combining entertainment, and stimulating that part of your brain that likes to do hard work, likes challenge. :-)

[@undulations]

This is really great to hear :) Many thanks for your feedback!

[@jordanWAH]

I'm convinced! Or at least interested, I ordered the microgranny 2.5 noir last weekend and it should be here soon. I also just got a korg monotron delay. So with my pocket operator sampler and the rest I should have a good time. thanks again, I can't find a ton of information on bastl gear, but I think I am really liking what they do.

[@undulations]

The MG 2.5 with the monotron delay is a really nice combo! As for MG info, feel like I see posts on Instagram quite a bit, but that doesn't always help. I have some granular videos that I'm working on that might be applicable, a little at least. Anyway, thanks a lot for checking this video out🙏🏼!

[@jordanWAH]

Afraid I will be returning my Ole granny. She is not really intuitive to just pick up and play. I couldn't add anything to the card without having card errors or freezing up. I recorded some video of what could be mistaken for possession, lol. Also the granular effect is not really doing much. At least I was only able to slow down, speed up and just add static while slowing down. Bit crush should sound like low resolution IMO.

[@undulations]

@@jordanWAH Understood, sorry it wasn't a keeper, but not enough time in the day to use something that doesn't feel right👍🏻

[@jodd5534]

really amazing and skilled video, thank you!

[@undulations]

Thanks very much for checking it out🙏🏼!

[@dariusmorgan8302]

Thanks man!!! Excellent video on the microgranny. Im glad you spent time talking about it's limitations & value. Like a lot of Bastl stuff (which i love btw), it is it's own animal and is unapologetically it's own thing...and if you're expecting it to be like another product that may be similar in title, you might be disappointed. I like that about Bastl. You're right in letting people know that it isn't necessarily the absolute representation of all that can be done in the granular realm and is limited in certain ways...but it can be a really unique piece to have in your workflow. Especially if you use MIDI. Thanks again. Great stuff, as always

[@undulations]

Really appreciate the feedback! What you say is so true - i feel like Bastl products are inspiring, but at times the uniqueness can cause some issues. Regardless, doing this video made me decide that I should include some of their other devices (Thyme, SoftPop, Illuminati,...) in videos down the road. Thanks again🙏🏼!

[@stonedapesociety5628]

Perfect weird portable set up!

[@undulations]

Agreed. I took advice from a comment a while back and put a usb-rechargable 9v battery in it - so even more portable. Korg NTS-1 adds a lot with arps and fx. Check out a 1/14/21 post that I did, if you do Instagram (I'm dr_nim2014 on there). Thanks for checking this out🙏🏼!

[@guiom77]

encore une superbe video,,, meilleur pedagogue!!!

[@undulations]

Many Thanks!

[@xflow-fc8eq]

Thanks for the video. I am looking into granular hardware and thinking about getting either a Soniware LIVEN Texture Lab or a Microfreak. The LIVEN seems to have more features at the moment and can also be used as as an effects pedal, which exponentially increases the fun.

[@expandingknowledge8269]

Always enjoy the comprehensive instruction you give on synthesis. Granular seems to be a thing lately, perhaps it is. I involve myself with as many synthesis methods as I can afford. It seems that the vast majority of offerings from manufactures are just rehash's of existing instruments. I feel your channel covers most if not all the bases in the world of electronic synthesis music, Very Nice Presentation my friend !!! Expanding Knowledge.

[@undulations]

Yes, I guess granular _has_ been a thing lately - at least for me :) I just uploaded another example using the Digitakt. Nothing too complicated - the SpaceCraft app has really opened my eyes to what can be accomplished with 2 tracks and a well-designed interface. Thanks very much for watching!

[@expandingknowledge8269]

@@undulations 👍👍 Great channel!

[@OFFMike]

Great one convince me to keep mine 🙏🏾

[@undulations]

Glad to hear it! Making this video really changed my mind about the MicroGranny (and other minimalist gear). It doesn't do exactly what I want, but I enjoy using it a lot anyway. Thanks for checking out the video🙏🏼

[@23fm]

Great content. Thanks.

[@undulations]

Thanks for checking it out🙏🏼!

[@zj5894]

The Granular God. Still waiting for the album to drop!

[@undulations]

So much to learn about something like granular, really fascinated by it! Somebody suggested that I compile some of the Delta Waves video tracks, maybe as the nucleus of an album or such. Will ponder🤔! Thanks for the feedback!

[@mirage69]

@@undulations you should do it. I found your channel through your Volca modular videos and loved the music and videos you made at the end of each episode. It’s the reason the I watch your videos. The other half being the in depth education. Great stuff.

[@undulations]

@@mirage69 Hey, thank you very much! I am now planning to go back through various audio parts from the channel and compile something for free release👍🏻

[@jazzman1892]

Very informative video! I must say the end part, you could use the MG as a remix tool, great for DJs, say cut up some vocals and breaks! Where did you purchase the power supply? I have looked here in the UK and not had much success.

[@undulations]

Hey, absolutely, I've seen some posts on Instagram that use the MicroGranny a lot more like a "traditional" (i.e. non-granular) sampler. As for the power supply, it came with my Bastl BitRanger. But, that said, a subscriber mentioned using usb-rechargable 9v batteries, and I picked up a couple, has been nice. Thanks for checking out the video🙏🏼!

[@NoyaD9]

I bought a generic power supply on Amazon... Just make sure it's 9v and the polarity is respected.

[@ShakaCthulu]

Your vids are so zen. ❤️

[@undulations]

Thank you! Means a lot to hear that :)

[@temporoboto]

quality content. thanks for sharing.

[@undulations]

You're welcome, thanks for checking it out🙏🏼!

[@laliricaadecuada9091]

Between the Microgranny and the Model:Samples, which one do you think would be more useful and easier to learn for this kind of granular synthesis?

[@undulations]

Well, what does the MicroGranny have going for it? It's a cool design and some nice functionality (grain scanning, etc.) But a lot against it - kind of a clunky / retro sample handling system, no fx, no stereo - two hallmarks of granular methodologies. I enjoy it, but I guess now I think of it as a fun _portable_ alternative sampler. A nice _second_ sampler. But the Model:Samples is so capable, allows so many different things. Excellent sequencer, huge access to samples on the fly, usb sample transfer, parameter locking, built in reverb and delay. panning to allow output to have stereo effects even if the samples are mono. it's playable, programmable, and highly suitable to experimentation (especially with many LFO options and even routing pad pressure to other parameters). I think my video about doing granular with Model:Samples is still one of my most popular. Also, I have some Model:Cycles videos that might give a good idea what the updated Samples can do. For me, it would be the Model:Samples, hands down.

[@laliricaadecuada9091]

@@undulations Thanks for taking the time to reply, this is very helpful. The ability to capture samples on the filed had me thinking about the Microgranny for a second, but what you say about the abilities of the Model:samples definitely tips the scale. Cheers!

[@ralphhayward4713]

27:00 the night train...lush!

[@undulations]

🚂🌙 - thanks for checking it out!

[@chribbe]

The part where you prepare your sample in audacity -- PRICELESS!

[@undulations]

Glad to hear that! Thanks for checking it out🙏🏼.

[@NoyaD9]

Great video! Thanks for the in depth presentation! I own a Microgranny and never really got into it... I guess because I miss the concept a bit, and also need to enhance it with some reverb. Also thanks for showing how to copy paste as it's something i found not very well explained in the manual. Actually looking at how you used it it seems that it work better with some pre made songs that are deconstructed. What other use cases did you find it to be good at?

[@undulations]

Thanks very much for checking out the video🙏🏼! I guess the main thing that comes to mind was a 1 minute video that I did for Instagram, dr_nim2014 posted 1/14/21 (and it's also in my Jamuary Part 1 YT video on here). In that I took a short kalimba melody and did some things like copy it, repitch it (octave and 5th i think?), and reverse it - then sort if do a blend from the kalimba to the MicroGranny. I liked how it turned out. I guess that's a main this I wish this video had: using "bookend" samples. Since the MG has no reverse button, if you like reverse sounds you can take a sample and make a new double-length sample that's got the original sample forward followed by the original sample reversed (in software like Audacity). Then you can load that onto one or more slots and use the start position to choose forward or reverse, sort of chop up mixtures of that. It can be a cool effect👍🏻

[@ruxiwang9571]

老爷爷每次讲解都很用心！虽然口音有点土但每次都能学到些东西。

[@undulations]

谢谢

[@dariusmorgan8302]

I'm interested in that book on synthesis. I'm going to check out her IG. Some amazing minds out there. Find something new all the time that keeps me inspired and learning

[@undulations]

Excellent! That is great to hear👍🏻!

[@jonhealartandstuff]

Dr. Nim, sir, for this demo, are you running the MicroGranny through your Dude mixer? I ask because the output level on my MicroGranny is quite low. Maybe 15-20 dB lower on average than my other devices. And that's when I have the output knob on the MicroGranny cranked all the way to the top. I run it and my other devices through a Mackie Mix8, but it is fairly impossible to get a balanced mix with the MicroGranny. I see the Dude can boost by 20 dB, which would make up for what is not there now if I put it between the MicroGranny and the Mix8. Unless there is something wrong with my unit ... I wrote BASTL about it, but they said it was "normal." I really like your channel and content, by the way. 😉

[@neilyounger7585]

Thanks for another soberly presented in-deph review - I got the impression that the MG slightly underwhelmed you. Anyway, I thought I might point out one feature of the MG which neither the Korg Sample nor the Model Sample has: when connected to a midi keyboard (a Keystep in your video) each midi note/key plays an individual "slice" of the sample. The manual adds: "When used with granular settings this feature can be used to play individual grains." Please correct me if I'm wrong.

[@undulations]

You are certainly correct about the midi slicing on the MG. I have a way to do that on the Volca but it requires some code and extra gear to convert/relay notes into slices. As for the MG overall - I really started to like it a lot after making this video. I feel like it's a case of the whole being greater than the sum of the parts (i.e. functionality) - there's a real aesthetic to it. One of my favorite Jamuary posts of this year used it (see Jan 14 post on IG, dr_nim2014 or also the Jamuary Part 1 video on here, is with Kalimba), Anyway, I appreciate the feedback and I should look more at that midi mode on the MG (it reminds me of the SLICR app). Thanks🙏🏼!

[@neilyounger7585]

@@undulations Yes, I hear you when you say the whole is more than the sum of the functions. There's something that perlexes me which is you say that negative scanning doesn't mean reverse playback, but when you demonstrated it on the rising pitch tone it became a descending pitch tone, therefore reverse playback (?).

[@undulations]

@@neilyounger7585 Well, it's tricky on something like that - if the grain is small enough (compared to the overall sweep) then a simple waveshape like that _sounds_ the same forward as backward, i.e. the grains sound the same when played in either direction. So the backwards scan on the MG pretty much sounds like it's playing backwards too, but it isn't. Imagine a sample of somebody counting to 10. The MG can make it sound like they are counting backwards but it can't make the actual words sound backwards. I kind of solved this in that IG post that I mentioned above: I combined a fwd sample and a reverse sample of the same thing into one sample, sort of like a mirror image, so then you just change where you are scanning/starting to hear it backwards. It works pretty nicely on the MG👍🏻

[@neilyounger7585]

@@undulations Thanks for the reply. So after the grain loop plays forward it shifts to the next point in the sample and repeat above, so that you don't get that characteristic slurring of a proper reverse effect, right?

[@undulations]

@@neilyounger7585 That's right, the shift could be forwards or backwards within the sample but the grain always plays forwards 👍🏻.

[@kathleenhisey8131]

If I’m getting a microgranny and can purchase one accompanying device for reverb and delay under $200, what would you recommend? helpful video, thank you.

[@undulations]

I would say a Korg NTS-1. It's about $110, It is a "kit" but it's very straightforward, maybe 15 minutes. It's a synth in its own right, but has an audio input jack to process external audio with reverb, delay, and more. Many types of fx, also can be modded with custom fx using Korg's Library software. Some of the fx are stereo, enhancing the MicroGranny sound. Runs on usb power, uses 3,5 mm cables (matching the MicroGranny). The NTS-1 itself is quite playable, can do nice arpeggios, has filtering - and so it can also be a thing that you sample with the MicroGranny). It has a latching feature , so you can add a drone note or arpeggio to go with the sampler. I did Jamuary on Instagram this year (dr_nim2014), and probably my favorite post of the whole month was with these two instruments (January 14th post). Hope this helps!

[@kathleenhisey8131]

Thank you! You sold me on it. I had been considering a reverb/delay pedal like the Cosmonaut V2 before. I’m new to this.

[@undulations]

@@kathleenhisey8131 You're welcome👍🏻 There are a lot of nice pedals out there, for sure - I thought about suggesting the Zoom MultiStomp (MS-70CDR), but it's some additional cables (1/4") to convert and doesn't have the ready playability of the NTS-1. ps I've got an NTS-1 video on this channel, fyi.

[@geoffreythomas1452]

Thank you for this video! Can you enlighten me on this setup I am thinking of putting together? Bastl Microgranny, Arturia Keystep, Garageband, Stylophone Gen X-1. I want to create samples, soundscapes, tones, and maybe some beats. I am on a budget, and this all seems doable to me. Any advice or suggestions appreciated. Thank you!!!

[@undulations]

Well, first I should mention that I've used all of these (individually) and like them each very much. But, some thoughts/questions. Not sure how you are getting sounds into GB, an audio interface, but I assume that GB lets you apply effects like reverb realtime to incoming audio? (has been years since I used GB, and that was almost entirely drawing in notes) I guess I'm concerned that this will keep you hooked up to the laptop/desktop at all times to have effects on the MicroGranny (which is fine, but just making the point). A guitar pedal is one way to fix this, and since the MG is mono there are a ton of options (but then you need adaptor cable, etc. especially if you want to listen in headphones or monitors [since pedal out will typically be single mono]). But I keep coming back to the Korg NTS-1 (maybe as a swap for the GenX-1, similar price, not sure about availability). The NTS-1 kit is easy to build, and it gives you synth sounds with lfo and filter and delay (similar to stylophone) PLUS reverb, modulation effects, keyboard hold, arpeggio, in terms of sound. BUT the NTS-1 also can be controlled by your KeyStep (needs a midi adaptor) - and can process external audio, in stereo, can add in stereo effects (like ping pong delay), and only needs an aux cable to hook to the MicroGranny. So, with MicroGranny (using 9V), NTS-1 using a small usb power battery, and headphones, you could do sampling and granular, additional synth voice, effects, without the pc (or ac power). Not sure how important mobility is to you, but the option is there in this case. Another thing to think about is a field recorder. It doesn't need to be much - I use an older model Tascam DR-05 all the time. It's such an helpful way to record what you do, make samples (I use Audacity on PC, not sure what is for Mac), and put those back on the MicroGranny. Anyway, I'm rambling. It's all great gear - I have a lot of fun finding sounds on the GenX-1, a cool device in and of itself. Hope some of this is helpful, feel free to ask about what I've written. Thanks a lot for watching👍🏻!

[@geoffreythomas1452]

@@undulations Thank you, this helps me a lot! I had never thought of it being portable as an option, considering how the world is right now. Am still weighing the option of buying a Tascam field recorder, or in an effort to degrade the sound, a 4-track cassette recorder. I haven't messed much with GB, to be honest. Once I get this setup, obtaining the correct plugs, cords, adapters is most important. This is invaluable. Thank you, I will definitely write again if I have more questions.

[@dlichtenberg]

I like your pace and calm temperament

[@undulations]

Thanks much for checking it out🙏🏼

[@djformalin]

Clever done - thx 🎼

[@undulations]

Thanks for checking it out😀

[@surrealchemist]

I buy equipment and end up on your channel again. No idea why I didn’t subscribe before. I just built a microgranny from the DIY kit today, and it seems to work but I have no idea how to use the thing. hah

[@undulations]

Well, I hope it's going okay😀! The manual can seem a little terse, but it seemed to sink in after enough button mashing and attempts. BIG UPS FOR BUILDING YOUR OWN!

[@underwatermusic7763]

Great video. Thank you for this. I have two MG and love them. But I have a problem when I use a power adapter. It’s very noisy. How did you avoid that?

[@undulations]

Man, I'll bet 2 MG's is a lot of fun! I really didn't do anything special with the power. Mine came with no dc supply (is that standard?), and so I use the supply from my Bastl BitRanger. Best advice I have is to try whatever supplies you can gain access to, try various wall outlets, and see if it is somehow innate to your unit? Anyway, good luck an thanks very much for watching👍🏻

[@zorbanongreco]

Use a battery.🐂💨💨💨

[@undulations]

@@zorbanongreco Very true! I just got a couple of rechargable 9V for this👍🏻

[@SonicVibe]

I want the new Bastl Instruments Microgranny Monolith just came out today

[@undulations]

Sounds exciting! Will check it out!

[@vincentpinson]

hello, do you know how to recharge the battery inside the microganny?

[@undulations]

Well, I think in short, don't do it. I think the manual has some specifics about using the side connector for power but not for charging (I think I am remembering that right, but worth double checking). I don't think it can be done via the main dc input either. I don't think it ships with a rechargable 9V, so if you want to recharge it you'll probably have to provide your own rechargable 9V and charge it outside the MG in its own charger. I use the main DC to power mine. If you go with a rechargable 9V then I'd recommend taping the short edges of the MG case so that the box doesn't come apart when you remove the bottom panel. I hope this helps👍🏻

[@vincentpinson]

@@undulations thanks, you have to take out the 9v battery and charge it externally?

[@undulations]

@@vincentpinson Correct and (to be very clear since it can be dangerous) ONLY if it's a rechargable 9V (they aren't super common). Otherwise you just replace it.

[@vincentpinson]

​@@undulations do you think that this kind of usb rechargeable 9v battery can be good for the micrgranny? images.app.goo.gl/KLN8vWtZuPHx1o2t9

[@undulations]

@@vincentpinson Can't say for sure re: that battery itself, but if it works okay then it should be fine👍🏻

[@promethiousb1489]

Still trying to get it to sync to midi lol,,tried everything,,different cables,,,different keyboards,,,but it still wont work,,i have followed the manual to the letter,,any ideas??

[@undulations]

Well, idk. I'm sure you've tried the usual stuff. Check channels, midi mode type on the MG? Do you have any sort of midi 2x2 box (or other USB-to-midi port functionality, like some audio interfaces?) where you can possibly look for the MG's midi existence with a computer (DAW or such)? Sorry it took so long to answer and not much help.

[@promethiousb1489]

@@undulations No,,my gear runs through a usb mixer,,,never mind,,i just work around it..thanks for your reply,,ur vids are great,,most inspiring.

[@undulations]

@@promethiousb1489 Thank you very mich🙏🏼!

[@adamcrafts3645]

Love the microgranny, a perfectly nasty sounding sampler. Tonnes of gritty flavour

[@undulations]

Thanks for checking out the video🙏🏼!

[@ricardoavila4745]

Looking for an affordable granular synth option ... What would you choose btw the MicroGranny and the Elektron Model.. Does the Elektron would be a better option ? It would cover the MG features?? Great content!!! thanks a lot

[@undulations]

Hey, well it's a tough question because I like the MG a lot. But if I really had to choose one, then I would go with the Model:Samples. The main MG granular features are just being able to control sample length (grain size) and scanning speed. This is the sort of thing that you can definitely emulate on the Model:Samples. I've got a future video planned out to show various ways to use the Samples, but it might be a month or so. It's got 6 tracks, built in reverb and delay, and an LFO on each track that allows you to introduce dynamics (like a randomly changing sample start point) that you just can't do with the MG on it's own (hooking to a DAW makes far more possible for MG, of course). Then, the Model:Samples is also a solid groovebox with a really nice sequencer. PS If you haven't seen it, take a look at the last part of the video that comes after this one (Synthrotakt). In that clip I play a sequenced-based pattern and then shift to a sample of the exact same pattern (all on the Elektron Digitakt); this enables me to build up a sequence live, but then move to a sample which allows me to pitch shift the track and do some granular sorts of things to it. The exact same sort of thing could be done with the Model:Samples.

[@jordanWAH]

I'm having trouble with the bit crush. It doesn't sound like any bit crusher I ever heard.

[@undulations]

Well, as you no doubt know, second knob with green light on - and yes, it goes sort of hissy, noisy, overdriven, and maybe even some sort of ring mod or karplus-strong distortion? but not really the classic bit reduction and aliasing style of crush that something like an Ottobit Jr pedal has. so idk. anyway, thanks a lot for checking out the video!

[@dimensionstomorrow]

You planning to get the new Roland P6?

[@samothrace2106]

I'm looking forward to being able to afford a MG kit sometime in the next few months. Thanks for the in-depth look. One thing I haven't been able to figure out from any videos around KZbin, is whether grains are always played forward. If scan rate is negative, do the grains still play forward, but just the order of grains is in reverse? If grain size is 0, can you play a sample backwards?

[@undulations]

My experience with it (and the manual) is that there is no reverse playback in any case (i.e. negative scanning, etc.). I assume there could be firmware mods out there that allow it. I've been thinking about putting certain samples on the sd card that are either paired (i.e. sample C1 is forward and C2 is reversed, allowing a pretty easy swap back and forth) or as a "bookend" sample (the first half of the sample is forward, the second half is reversed, allowing the start value to reverse grains and some more complex scanning). Thanks a lot for checking out the video👍🏻!

[@samothrace2106]

@@undulations I guess loading reverse or forward/backward samples is easy enough. Anyway I heard that samples loaded from the computer sound better than those sampled directly, even using line in. Thanks again

[@jonhealartandstuff]

An edit to my comment below. I just realized that if I treat the MicroGranny as a stereo device, and connect it with a stereo 3.5mm to 1/4" cable to a stereo channel on my mixer, the output level is, I guess, doubled. Is this how you connect yours?

[@undulations]

Hey, it has been long enough that I don't remember the exact setup for the video, but I looked on Instagram (Jan 14, 2021) and I'm running the MG straight into the Korg NTS-1 for effects. I don't remember volume being an issue (I always feel like Bastl products are somwhat hot). How do the factory sounds work on yours? Have you tested with headphones? Do you feel like your output level knob is responsive? Let me know, I can do more testing to see how mine behaves.

[@jonhealartandstuff]

​@@undulations Hi. Thanks for your reply. To answer your questions, I have used the stock sounds only. I have not added any of my own content to the SD card. And I also just tried listening with headphones plugged into the MicroGranny. In my case, AKG 240s (I’m not sure what their impedance is). Through my headphones, I would not term the listening experience “deafening,” even with the output knob turned all the way up, but the output level was acceptable on headphones. I notice in your video, you have the output knob at about 10 o’clock. If I set mine to the same, the output through my headphones is quite low. For practical purposes, I need to keep the output knob pegged on my unit. There are other variables at play here, too, namely my mixer. The jack I had it plugged into was the Left (Mono) jack of an L+R stereo paif of channels. With a plug in the Left jack only, the mixer treats the signal as mono and send it both left and right. Wired this way, I get a very low-level mono signal through the mixer. I’ve tried wiring it two other ways with louder results: 1. Inserting a stereo 3.5mm plug into the MicroGranny with two ¼” TS plugs on the other end going into the Left and Right channels of that stereo pair on the mixer. 2. I also tried inserting a mono 3.5mm plug into the Microgranny, the other end going into a ¼” TS splitter, each split going into the Left and Right channels of that stereo pair on the mixer. Both of these options resulted in output ~20dB higher. And of the two, for whatever reason, option 1 is a bit hotter. I’m still not convinced there isn’t something wrong with my particular MicroGranny although it functions as expected in every other regard. Honestly, I was on the verge of selling it, though I do have reverb and delay to "fill it out." My biggest gripe is having to hold down the buttons to keep the samples playing. The decay setting workaround really only works for short samples. But ... for hardware that does granular mangling, the MicroGranny's pretty much the only game in town, I found nothing comparable anywhere near its price point. P.S. I also just picked up the Kastl Drum based on your fine videos. 😁

[@undulations]

Hey, I just don't know. It sounds like you are certainly trying all of the right things to get the audio to work. You may want to try recording or making some samples, just to see if there is some sort of issue on that end? Have you looked at the factory SD files on another device/software? Anyway, best of luck with it. It's not ideal, but I think that a small clamp (trigger variety?) can hold down a button? Maybe under some circumstances that could be helpful? That's great about the Kastle Drum, I've really enjoyed it. Thanks very much for checking out these videos🙏! Let me know how it goes.

[@MrSinisacmrecak]

Hy how manny grains it can play at the same time??

[@undulations]

Well, just one. And that's in mono. This is one reason that reverb / delay FX really help it out, smooth over gaps.

[@ambientpunkandholeinasock9927]

Fantastic

[@undulations]

Thanks very much🙏🏼!

[@bigchung3833]

Can I use this with a Korg ms20 mini? Or would I need to plug both of them into an audio interface?

[@undulations]

Well, I don't have an MS20 (or mini) but I looked at the manual, so I can guess. If you just want audio then I guess the MG could be processed as an external signal and come out the mini's audio. But for any sort of control or syncing? The MG doesn't have sync or clock i/o, so it would have to be midi, and the MG only has midi _in_. Meanwhile, it looks like the mini also only has midi in? So, there are some things to try. The mini has midi over usb, is that also only midi in, or can the mini send midi signals by usb (e.g. to a daw)? If it can send midi out by usb then you might be able to use a midi host box to connect them? OR, you can think about using a 3rd thing to control them in sync - that could be a daw (could use a midi 2x2 box for this), or possibly something like a Korg SQ-1 where the midi out would control the MG and then CV/gate from the SQ-1 could control the MS20 mini by direct patching. Lastly, I recommend looking at the midi part of the MG manual - it has a couple of different midi modes and i think the SQ-1 route mentioned above can probably only do the pitched version. It can get more complicated, (and expensive) but something like an arturia beatstep pro maywork better than the SQ-1 for triggering samples. Hope this helps👍🏻!

[@bigchung3833]

@@undulations you sir are amazing! Thank you very much. I’ll look into all these options you mentioned!

[@monsirto]

Nice. Subscribed.

[@undulations]

Thanks for checking it out🙏🏼!

[@homospicious]

granular... kitty litter and hair beats. LOL. Thank you for this tutorial, it really helped me narrow down the options that are out there. Has anyone had any luck with connecting PO 33 to MG?

[@undulations]

Hey, thanks for checking it out🙏🏼! I don't recall seeing that combo, but I bet it would be nice. The issue is that MG doesn't have sync i/o. It has a standard 5-pin connector for MIDI _in_ but that is no real help for a direct line to the PO. The MG also has special MIDI out/thru connectivity by the little sockets on the side. This is for connecting to other Bastl gear or maybe some sort of diy midi setup. So, to me, the easiest thing would be to bring a 3rd piece of gear to the puzzle - a Korg SQ-1 might be a good (and economic) choice. The SQ-1 could basically be the conductor: send midi out to the MG and send sync signals to the PO-33. This would be an all-battery setup that I think could be good for hands-on jams. Moreover, you can plug a PC into the SQ-1 by usb and use a DAW to really max out the capabilities of the MicroGranny (because you can send both notes and CC data to the MG, basically controlling all of the parameters from the computer). Another thought: the Volca Sample 2 is coming out very soon - as I said in the video, I feel like it has a lot to offer for granular _plus_ it would sync with the PO-33 right out of the box. Good luck with it all👍🏻.

[@homospicious]

@@undulations Thank you so much for the feedback and time. Totally forgot about i/o piece. Time for coffee! I do like the idea of chaining the volca into the mix. Are there any books out there you'd recommend that can help with learning more about connectivity ? Some of the stuff that I have been able to source offer great visuals on how to map stuff to different devices and covers how to utilize ports but then I am not always clear about which chords to use. I have def purchased the wrong chords before, which I feel like the comes with territory of learning about your gear. I would rather own less gear and figure out ways on how to maximize their capabilities as well. Thank you again!

[@undulations]

Well, feel free to ask specifics on here (I probably average like 5 minutes a day on comments so it's really no big deal). As for books on that sort of thing? I used to have access to a music library (pre-pandemic) that had a lot of older books about studio setups, so maybe there is something current on the topic🤔

[@cheesetoastie5887]

Are the pumpkin's grow by you? small sugar & jack be little i think? nice props ;)

[@undulations]

Thank you very much! I'm pretty sure that these were from the store (but I do have a friend that grows that sort of thing; locally grown props would be good!) Those are great variety names; your knowledge is impressive😀!

[@submarineradio_]

Yessirr 🤘🏽

[@undulations]

🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼!

[@jordanWAH]

It's weird to see a sampler without looping functionality.

[@undulations]

In what sense? Overdubbing?

[@jordanWAH]

@@undulations I'm sorry, it can also loop samples? I don't see a lot of videos on this. Since it's mono I guess making overdubs are not possible?

[@reasons4171]

🙏

[@undulations]

🙏🏼!

[@promethiousb1489]

Just got one,,how frustrating this thing is,,i would simply love to put my own samples on there,,but after trying over and over,,,i give up....pretty useless if i cant put my own sample on there...great vid.

[@undulations]

Hey, I would like to try to help. If you get a chance, tell me how you are going about getting the samples on there. What card reader? What audio software to make the sample? What sample rate and format? What filename? Where are you putting them on the sd card?

[@promethiousb1489]

@@undulations Hi,,I use my laptop for loading samples,(built in card reader)Audacity to convert to ,22.500,,sample rate...WAV,,,named,,A1,,A2 B3 etc..on root directory...should I rename the files txt?,,eg,,B2.txt,,rather than B2.wav,?,,,thanks for your reply..

[@undulations]

@@promethiousb1489 So, to refresh my memory, I made a couple of samples in Audacity, followed the manual instructions, and it worked - BUT a couple of problems along the way. Maybe it will help if I recount in detail: I opened a music sample in Audacity, trimmed it, faded it, and then mixed it down to mono. Set the project rate to 22.05 (lower left corner of Aud) and exported as 16-bit signed pcm (microsoft) wav called R0.wav - when I open a MG file back up in Audacity it shows as mono 22050Hz 32-bit float (in info on left of track/trace). I dragged R0.wav onto card, replaced the original R0.wav, and tried it out. MG booted up but R0.wav not visible on MG. So then I just RENAMED the same file from R0.wav to R1.wav. Then, this time, I DELETED the original R1.wav from the card and put my R1.wav on there. I also made a shorter sound effect file (exact same method as above) called R2.wav, deleted the factory R2.wav, and put mine on there. MG couldn't see the card at first, pulled out and reinserted, and both R1.wav and R2.wav were on the MG and played. Still no R0.wav, so I went back and put the original R0.wav on the card (I make a copy on pc of any factory samples I delete from MG card). So then I had R0 (original), R1 (mine), and R2(mine) all on there. SO, I guess my point is that there is some glitchiness to it, not sure why, but in my own case I just tried some different stuff - down at the level of superstition really, because how could "replace" really differ from "delete" then "copy"? I hope this helps in some way. Let me know how it goes. ps the .txt files are how it keeps track of the non-wav data, like stored parameter settings, banks, etc.

[@promethiousb1489]

@@undulations Hi,,ok,,i give it another go,,,thanks..

[@squishmusic]

Yeah I gotta say the Granny....."dont impress me much" (#whatsongwasthat?) its monophonic sampler playback with 2 granular controls. The Polyend tracker has more indepth granular engine on samples. And yeah as you illustrate the Volca (s/hand around 70€) is much better equipped for granular given the motion sequencing and being able to sequence 16-steps (or individual granular snippets) - volca 4 me. But maybe I try granular on my korg ES2...

[@undulations]

I feel like my mind hasn't really changed about it since the video, but I do continue to enjoy the MG, shortcomings and all. Not my top pick for granular or samples in general, but it has a sort of charm that I've connected to. I did a jamuary post with it over on IG (1/14/21, dr_nim2014) that I liked a lot. Speaking of the Volca Sample, my 2.0 version finally arrived in the mail yesterday. Will be doing a video about granular with that in the not-so-distant future. Thanks a lot for checking out this video🙏🏼!

[@squishmusic]

@@undulations Dear Dr Nim, allow me to share some gr8 news with you and blow your mind (and the MG off to hell) - check out this 95$ synth. Duophonic, with FM, and granular sampling/synthesis AND a ruddy sequencer and LOTS more to boot. Merry Xmas in September :D kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHacnaRrp9eSj6c

[@undulations]

@@squishmusic Cool, I'll take a look!

[@mpstrgc112]

This was a good one. If I could resubscribe I would.

[@undulations]

Most kind! Thanks for checking it out🙏🏼!

[@jaimeross7507]

Thank You for this......Subd Your Channel Today!!!!!

[@undulations]

Thanks so much for checking it out (and subbing!)😀 Comments on older videos are always a great reminder to break out the gear and do something new!

[@jaimeross7507]

@@undulations Yes...also that YOU STILL Help People Years into the Future!!.....We just found a microgranny 2..... Hopefully it still works 10 yrs. later.....guitar ctr. sending it to me soon.

[@undulations]

@@jaimeross7507 Well, helping somebody through the comments on here is really one of my favorite parts of the whole thing. I hope it goes well with the MG2! (it can definitely be kind of alien; the manual was really helpful.)

[@harmony2368]

Xenakis & coil.

[@kostantinosmag2986]

📻🍃📻🍃📻🍃📻🍃🎹🍃👌

[@undulations]

🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼!

[@thelevicole]

Someone send him their clouds!

[@undulations]

I think that's a song🤔? "Send him the Clouds, there ought to be Clouds." No worries, will get one somehow!

[@ewokqueen2797]

poggers

[@MV-es3sk]

This thing sucks

[@undulations]

A legit take, tbh. I think people either love it or hate it, not much in between. Not everybody finds the constraints of a neo-retro / oldschool cyberpunk-ish sound brick appealing. It also seems like quite a bit has changed since I made the video: 1) Model:Samples has continued to update and have great functionality, 2) Volca Sample got an update with USB, getting rid of its biggest weakness, 3) I know 1010 makes a small granular box now and there are likely others, and 4) Koala Sampler has really come a long way: $5 (or $15 with Samurai add-on), so many details and features - as is or even with just a bluetooth keyboard for more of a "hardware" feel. It doesn't have true granular features like grain scanning (yet) but a basic midi controller can help overcome that.

[@MV-es3sk]

@@undulations I really want to love it, but it's just a complete miss for me, as an owner, it feels more like a gimmick than an actual instrument - though I'm sure there must be people out there whom has figured out ways to make music with it.. Maybe I just need to put a little more time into working with it :)

[@undulations]

@@MV-es3sk Yeah, I think that's right. I have done a couple of Jamuary posts on Instagram with it. I think better than anything in the video. Took a lot more planning with the samples that I expected. (I think maybe both of them are on here in my "Jamuary Redux" videos, I think there is a playlist). But, that said - doing a 1 minute clip is very different from a full song or live show. Anyway, best of luck with it. Let me know how it goes👍🏻.

[@MV-es3sk]

@@undulations Will check them out, thank you for the reply and for your work!

[@ricknorris1466]

@@undulationsI have the MG and 1010’s Lemon Drop. Low fi and hi Fi Granular units. Nice to have both. Ambience galore.