vArranger - User contributions [en]

Main Page

2014-09-30T22:20:17Z

Ygmuzic:

Welcome to the vArranger Online Manual.
<table border="0">
<tr>
<td valign="top">[[File:VAWikiLogo.png]]</td>
<td> </td>
<td>
[[1. OVERVIEW VIRTUAL ARRANGER vA2 ]] 
[[2. PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION ]] 
[[3. FEATURES]] 
[[4. INSTALLATION ]] 
[[5. FUNCTIONS vA2]] 
:[[5.1. WINDOWS PROGRAM]] 
:[[ 5.2. TRANSPOSE]] 
:[[ 5.3. REALTIME DISPLAY]] 
:[[ 5.4. OCTAVE]] 
:[[ 5.5. BASS]] 
:[[ 5.6. RIGHT]] 
:[[ 5.7. VOICE]] 
:[[ 5.8. MY SOUNDS]] 
:[[ 5.9. MY SONGS]] 
:[[ 5.10. MIXER]] 
:[[ 5.11. REALTIME ARRANGER]] 
:[[ 5.12. STATUS ARRANGER]] 
[[6. ERRORS AND WARNINGS]] 
[[VSTi | 7. USING VST INSTRUMENTS]] 
[[8. CONTACT]] 
[[9. APENDIX]] 
</td>
</tr>
</table>
 

INTRODUCTION

----
This is the online manual of '''vArranger''' - The Virtual Arranger Software - constructed in form of a Wiki. That means that every vArranger owner can edit this manual. Please feel free to complete the manual with your experience, or simply correct simple language mistakes, using the '''Edit''' button, on top of every page. Make practical examples so that new user will profit from your know how. The moderator of this wiki (Dan) will proof read the manual and will edit or delete what is not accurate.

Thanks to all vArranger Users.

Dan

5. FUNCTIONS vA2

2014-09-30T22:18:17Z

Ygmuzic:

By default vA2 starts in full screen. Double click on the backround of the main window to resize. Right click opens a popup window for [[File: save as.jpg |200px]] saving the "User" startup size of the main window.

[[File:Fig1Interfaceva.jpg |640px ]]

5. FUNCTIONS vA2

2014-09-30T22:13:29Z

Ygmuzic:

By default vA2 starts in full screen. Double click on the bottom of the main window to resize. Right click opens a popup window for [[File: save as.jpg |200px]] recording the "User" starting position of the main window.

[[File:Fig1Interfaceva.jpg |640px ]]

4. INSTALLATION

2014-09-30T22:07:01Z

Ygmuzic: /* */

__NOTOC__
== ==
After ordering on the website:http://www.varranger.com/Buy_Now.php You will receive within 24 hours the
installation instructions and the vArranger software download via email.
You can choose between two modes of installation:
- Installation on your computer (requires no USB, but only works on a single computer)
- Installation on your USB brand (Kingston, Sandisk...), so you can use the software on any
computer by plugging the USB key before launching vArranger.
This choice is final.

2. PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

2014-09-30T22:03:56Z

Ygmuzic: /* */

== ==

Connect to the computer your favorite MIDI instrument (usually a keyboard with a MIDI or
USB output, but also guitar MIDI, MIDI accordion ...)
Connect to the computer a MIDI synthesizer (sound generator)
take care to recognize "real time" played arrangements and generate a complete
orchestration in the chosen style, while allowing you full control over all aspects of your
instrumental Thurs
Instead of developing software with thousands of parameters to enter into menus and
sub-menus, we opted for an integrative approach.
So we decided to offer a ready-to-use solution for the musician, from beginning to end, the
chain of sound production.
Of course, the software is inherently scalable and we are in constant technological monitoring to
integrate progressively solutions that really seem workable for the musician.
Our first choice turned to integration Ketron SD2 sound module.
Following one of the possible configurations for the vA2: 
[[File:Fig78.jpg |360px] | center]]

1. OVERVIEW

2014-09-30T21:54:45Z

Ygmuzic:

== ==

Following a thorough market research, both in the past keyboards, professional arrangers, music and software, we decided to develop the Virtual Arranger software based on the wishes of many professional musicians around the world wanting a simple and effective tool with optimized ergonomics enabling them to play music "Live" with orchestral quality without any compromise.

Main Page

2014-09-30T21:45:29Z

Ygmuzic:

Welcome to the vArranger Online Manual.
<table border="0">
<tr>
<td valign="top">[[File:VAWikiLogo.png]]</td>
<td> </td>
<td>
[[1. OVERVIEW VIRTUAL ARRANGER vA2 ]] 
[[2. PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION ]] 
[[3. FEATURES]] 
[[4. INSTALLATION ]] 
[[5. FUNCTIONS vA2]] 
:[[5.1. WINDOWS PROGRAMM]] 
:[[ 5.2. TRANSPOSE]] 
:[[ 5.3. REALTIME DISPLAY]] 
:[[ 5.4. OCTAVE]] 
:[[ 5.5. BASS]] 
:[[ 5.6. RIGHT]] 
:[[ 5.7. VOICE]] 
:[[ 5.8. MY SOUNDS]] 
:[[ 5.9. MY SONGS]] 
:[[ 5.10. MIXER]] 
:[[ 5.11. REALTIME ARRANGER]] 
:[[ 5.12. STATUS ARRANGER]] 
[[6. ERRORS AND WARNINGS]] 
[[VSTi | 7. USING VST INSTRUMENTS]] 
[[8. CONTACT]] 
[[9. APENDIX]] 
</td>
</tr>
</table>
 

INTRODUCTION

----
This is the online manual of '''vArranger''' - The Virtual Arranger Software - constructed in form of a Wiki. That means that every vArranger owner can edit this manual. Please feel free to complete the manual with your experience, or simply correct simple language mistakes, using the '''Edit''' button, on top of every page. Make practical examples so that new user will profit from your know how. The moderator of this wiki (Dan) will proof read the manual and will edit or delete what is not accurate.

Thanks to all vArranger Users.

Dan

Main Page

2014-09-30T21:40:50Z

Ygmuzic:

Welcome to the vArranger Online Manual.
<table border="0">
<tr>
<td valign="top">[[File:VAWikiLogo.png]]</td>
<td> </td>
<td>
[[1. OVERVIEW VIRTUAL ARRANGER vA2 ]] 
[[2. PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION ]] 
[[3. FEATURES]] 
[[4. INSTALLATION ]] 
[[5. FUNCTIONS vA2]] 
:[[5.1. WINDOWS PROGRAMM]] 
:[[ 5.2. TRANSPOSE]] 
:[[ 5.3. REALTIME DISPLAY]] 
:[[ 5.4. OCTAVE]] 
:[[ 5.5. BASS]] 
:[[ 5.6. RIGHT]] 
:[[ 5.7. VOICE]] 
:[[ 5.8. MY SOUNDS]] 
:[[ 5.9. MY SONGS]] 
:[[ 5.10. MIXER]] 
:[[ 5.11. REALTIME ARRANGER]] 
:[[ 5.12. STATUS ARRANGER]] 
[[6. ERRORS AND WARNINGS]] 
[[VSTi | 7. USING VST INSTRUMENTS]] 
[[8. CONTACT]] 
[[9. APENDIX]] 
</td>
</tr>
</table>
 

INTRODUCTION

----
This is the online manual of '''vArranger''' - The Virtual Arranger Software - constructed in form of a Wiki. That means that every vArranger owner can edit this manual. Please feel free to complete the manual with your experience, or simply correct simple language mistakes, using the '''Edit''' button, on top of every page. Make practical examples so that new user will profit from your know how. The moderator of this wiki (Dan) will proof the news and can edit or delete it if it is not true.

Thanks to all vArranger Users.

Dan

VSTi

2014-09-30T21:38:12Z

Ygmuzic: /* The VST Rack */

== What is a VST Instrument? ==

The VST (Virtual Studio Technology) system was developed by Steinberg to enable a complete studio to be created in software.
It allowes third-party developers to produce real-time effect modules (VST or VST FX) or synth engines that are called VST Instruments (VSTi), that could 'plug in' to the host application.

So basically, a VSTi is a realtime software synthesizer.

Nowadays, there is a big quantities of third-party companies that are producing VST instruments plug-ins. Some have a very high sound quality, that can surpass their hardware alternative (Some are not so good).
Some are expensive, and some are free.

Good news, vArranger own a VST Host that can load and Play up to 16 VST Instruments.

== Requirements ==

When you press a note on your midi keyboard, the VSTi program is generating a sound, using the computer processor (CPU).
This operation need to be the faster as possible, (less than 10-15 milliseconds), so the player does not feel any latency.
Some VSTi are doing complex calculations, in a very short time. That's why using VST need usually a 'faster' computer. (Intel Core (i3) or i5 or i7 series is a good choice)
We also share this CPU power with all the running programs. So, it is better to avoid to install unneeded programs on a music computer.

The second point is that some VSTi are loading a big quantity of sampled sounds in the computer's memory (RAM). In case of using such VSTi, you need to have enough RAM installed in your computer. (4GB or 8GB is nice)

Some VST are playing the sounds directly from the Hard Drive. In such cases, a fast Hard drive 7200RPM or better a SSD disk is giving more comfort.

It's simple. If you the computer can't produce enough sound enough fast, you will hear some clics, or stuttering.

vArranger (the VST host) receive the generated sound, and send it back to the PC sound card driver, then to your PC powered speakers, or headphones.

There is actually 2 kinds of sound cards. Some are integrated inside your PC motherboard, and some can be optionally installed. They are professional sound cards with sometimes a better quality sound.

vArranger can communicate with the sound card using 3 different methods :

- '''DirectSound''' ''Pros :'' Available on every computer, the sound can be used by different programs together. ''Cons :'' It has too much latency and CAN'T be used for realtime synths. Only for MP3 playback.

- '''WASAPI''' ''Pros :'' Low latency. Available on every computer since Windows Vista. ''Cons :'' Not available on windows XP

- '''ASIO''' ''Pros :'' Low latency. ''Cons :'' ASIO drivers are only developed by the manufacturer for the professional sound cards.

Note that there is a free software called ASIO4ALL [http://www.asio4all.com/], created by Michael Tippach, that installs a generic ASIO driver, working for every sound card. This is the only solution for low latency audio if you use Windows XP, without a dedicated pro sound card.

''Note that sometimes, different access methods may result in a difference in term of audio sound or performances. In case of problems, it can be useful to test the different options ASIO <=> ASIO4ALL <=> WASAPI, to find the best working driver for your computer.''

== Configuring vArranger to play VST Instruments ==

In vArranger, go on OPTIONS / MIDI PORTS to select the audio outputs you want to use for playing VST instruments.

[[File:audio_configuration.png]]

As you can see in this example, the ASIO4ALL output has been selected.

Some sound cards have many audio outputs. You will see them all, displayed in this list.

In case of an ASIO sound card with multiples audio outputs, a second sub list will appear to select the desired stereo out.

As you can see in this example, I have selected '''VST''' as the 2nd MIDI OUT port, but you can select VST for the MIDI OUT 1, if the VST instruments will be your main sound source.

I have also selected the GM2 mode, who is working good for VST.

== The VST Rack ==

Selecting VST in the MIDI PORTS screen, will add a new button called VST in the vArranger main screen (top right).

Clicking on this button will show the VST rack with 16 slots to load up to 16 VST Instruments. Think of this as if you have 16 hardware synthesizers in your room, close to you.

[[File:Vsti.png]]

- To load a VST Instrument, click on the central and empty zone (2).
This will allow you to locate the vst that you want to load.
VST plugin files have an extension .DLL
They are usually installed in a centralized VST folder, but when you install a VST plugin, you have the choice to define a different VST installation folder. So be attentive at this path, so you can find it easily in vArranger.

''If you don't have any VST instruments, you can start by searching on google for free VST instruments.
This website contains a nice compilation of free VST plugins to download'' [http://lesitedeburnie.free.fr/lalistedeburnie1-en.html]

Note that vArranger only loads '''32 Bit VST 2.4 plug ins.''' ''If you really need to load a 64 Bit plug in, you need to install a software like jBridge'' [http://jstuff.wordpress.com/jbridge/]

Once loaded, you will see the name of your VST in the VST Rack line.

Click on the same zone (2), on the VST name, and you will see the '''VST EDITOR'''. This is the graphical screen of the VST, where you can interact with it.

''Note : VST plugins do not always have an editor, but most have one.''

- To remove a VST from the rack, click on the [X] (4)

- Some plugins have PROGRAMS. They are predefined factory presets. If some are present, you will see the rack line number lightened (1). Clicking on it will allow you to see and select a program.

[[File:VstPrograms.png]]

- The [+] (3) will allow you to see more options for every VST

This page will be updated to explain this screen.
The most important in this screen is to select the "Send to channel 1", if the plugin is not multitimbral, and is receiving on midi channel 1.

== Flexible Routing ==

Every track of vArranger can be routed to a different VST instrument.

RIGHT CLICKING on the track will allow you to select the desired MIDI OUT and/or the VST Instrument that will be used to play this track.

[[File:vstroute.png]]

This routing is saved with the Song (SAVE SONG) and with the Sound (SAVE RIGHT SOUND / SAVE LEFT SOUND)

VSTi

2014-09-30T21:32:48Z

Ygmuzic: /* Requirements */

== What is a VST Instrument? ==

The VST (Virtual Studio Technology) system was developed by Steinberg to enable a complete studio to be created in software.
It allowes third-party developers to produce real-time effect modules (VST or VST FX) or synth engines that are called VST Instruments (VSTi), that could 'plug in' to the host application.

So basically, a VSTi is a realtime software synthesizer.

Nowadays, there is a big quantities of third-party companies that are producing VST instruments plug-ins. Some have a very high sound quality, that can surpass their hardware alternative (Some are not so good).
Some are expensive, and some are free.

Good news, vArranger own a VST Host that can load and Play up to 16 VST Instruments.

== Requirements ==

When you press a note on your midi keyboard, the VSTi program is generating a sound, using the computer processor (CPU).
This operation need to be the faster as possible, (less than 10-15 milliseconds), so the player does not feel any latency.
Some VSTi are doing complex calculations, in a very short time. That's why using VST need usually a 'faster' computer. (Intel Core (i3) or i5 or i7 series is a good choice)
We also share this CPU power with all the running programs. So, it is better to avoid to install unneeded programs on a music computer.

The second point is that some VSTi are loading a big quantity of sampled sounds in the computer's memory (RAM). In case of using such VSTi, you need to have enough RAM installed in your computer. (4GB or 8GB is nice)

Some VST are playing the sounds directly from the Hard Drive. In such cases, a fast Hard drive 7200RPM or better a SSD disk is giving more comfort.

It's simple. If you the computer can't produce enough sound enough fast, you will hear some clics, or stuttering.

vArranger (the VST host) receive the generated sound, and send it back to the PC sound card driver, then to your PC powered speakers, or headphones.

There is actually 2 kinds of sound cards. Some are integrated inside your PC motherboard, and some can be optionally installed. They are professional sound cards with sometimes a better quality sound.

vArranger can communicate with the sound card using 3 different methods :

- '''DirectSound''' ''Pros :'' Available on every computer, the sound can be used by different programs together. ''Cons :'' It has too much latency and CAN'T be used for realtime synths. Only for MP3 playback.

- '''WASAPI''' ''Pros :'' Low latency. Available on every computer since Windows Vista. ''Cons :'' Not available on windows XP

- '''ASIO''' ''Pros :'' Low latency. ''Cons :'' ASIO drivers are only developed by the manufacturer for the professional sound cards.

Note that there is a free software called ASIO4ALL [http://www.asio4all.com/], created by Michael Tippach, that installs a generic ASIO driver, working for every sound card. This is the only solution for low latency audio if you use Windows XP, without a dedicated pro sound card.

''Note that sometimes, different access methods may result in a difference in term of audio sound or performances. In case of problems, it can be useful to test the different options ASIO <=> ASIO4ALL <=> WASAPI, to find the best working driver for your computer.''

== Configuring vArranger to play VST Instruments ==

In vArranger, go on OPTIONS / MIDI PORTS to select the audio outputs you want to use for playing VST instruments.

[[File:audio_configuration.png]]

As you can see in this example, the ASIO4ALL output has been selected.

Some sound cards have many audio outputs. You will see them all, displayed in this list.

In case of an ASIO sound card with multiples audio outputs, a second sub list will appear to select the desired stereo out.

As you can see in this example, I have selected '''VST''' as the 2nd MIDI OUT port, but you can select VST for the MIDI OUT 1, if the VST instruments will be your main sound source.

I have also selected the GM2 mode, who is working good for VST.

== The VST Rack ==

Selecting VST in the MIDI PORTS screen, will add a new button called VST in the vArranger main screen (top right).

Clicking on this button will show the VST rack with 16 slots to load up to 16 VST Instruments. Think this as if you have 16 hardware synthesizer in your room, close to you.

[[File:Vsti.png]]

- To load a VST Instrument, click on the central and empty zone (2).
This will allow you to locate the vst that you want to load.
VST plugin files have an extension .DLL
They are usually installed in a centralized VST folder, but when you install a VST plugin, you have the choice to define a different VST installation folder. So be attentive at this path, so you can find it easily in vArranger.

''If you don't have any VST instruments, you can start by searching on google for free VST instruments.
This website contains a nice compilation of free VST plugins to download'' [http://lesitedeburnie.free.fr/lalistedeburnie1-en.html]

Note that vArranger only loads '''32 Bit VST 2.4 plug ins.''' ''If you really need to load a 64 Bit plug in, you need to install a software like jBridge'' [http://jstuff.wordpress.com/jbridge/]

Once loaded, you will see the name of your VST in the VST Rack line.

Click on the same zone (2), on the VST name, and you will see the '''VST EDITOR'''. This is the graphical screen of the VST, where you can interact with it.

''Note : VST plugins does not always have an editor, but most have one.''

- To remove a VST from the rack, click on the [X] (4)

- Some plugins have PROGRAMS. They are predefined factory presets. If some are present, you will see the rack line number lightened (1). Clicking on it will allow you to see and select a program.

[[File:VstPrograms.png]]

- The [+] (3) will allow you to see more options for every VST

This page will be updated to explain this screen.
The most important in this screen is to select the "Send to channel 1", if the plugin is not multitimbral, and is receiving on midi channel 1.

== Flexible Routing ==

Every track of vArranger can be routed to a different VST instrument.

RIGHT CLICKING on the track will allow you to select the desired MIDI OUT and/or the VST Instrument that will be used to play this track.

[[File:vstroute.png]]

This routing is saved with the Song (SAVE SONG) and with the Sound (SAVE RIGHT SOUND / SAVE LEFT SOUND)