Workflow for Sampling Analog Synthesizers in Bitwig

Here’s a concise yet powerful sampling workflow, specifically designed as an efficient method for integrating ideas from analog or outboard hardware directly into a project.

While more advanced techniques exist for creating a permanent, multi-sampled sound library, this method is optimized for moments of creative flow. It’s for when you need to capture a sound from your hardware and make it workable within Bitwig, allowing for pattern changes and further manipulation. Relying on direct MIDI from hardware can introduce timing unreliability and dedicates that synthesizer to a single task. The goal here is to commit sounds to audio swiftly, but in a way that retains the flexibility that raw audio lacks, especially when altering chord progressions. This process incorporates one specific technique that yields a far more convincing recording, particularly with analog sources.

The Rationale for Sampling Analog Hardware

Retaining direct MIDI control over hardware during a project can be problematic due to potential timing inaccuracies. Furthermore, this approach monopolizes the hardware, preventing its use for other elements in the track. Printing to audio is often the preferred solution for decisiveness and stability. However, a static audio file presents its own limitations, especially when musical changes like new chord voicings are required. This sampling workflow provides a solution that captures the audio character while preserving melodic and harmonic flexibility, freeing up the hardware for subsequent use.

The Core Technique: Round Robin Sampling

Herein lies the critical element of this process. A standard one-shot sample of an analog synthesizer, when loaded into a sampler, often negates the very characteristics that make analog hardware desirable. Much of the sonic magic is in the subtle, continuous movement of free-running oscillators and the resulting “live” quality. This is lost when a single, static audio file is re-triggered, which is especially noticeable in elements like a bassline.

To counteract this, the solution is to create a round robin sample patch. In essence, this configures the sampler to cycle through a selection of different recordings on each successive key press, thereby preserving the organic, non-linear character of the original analog source.

A Step-by-Step Technical Workflow

Here is a breakdown of the process, demonstrated with a Moog Messenger bass sound.

1. Audio Input Configuration: Begin by establishing an audio path from the synthesizer into Bitwig via an audio or hardware instrument channel. For this technique, a direct audio feed is sufficient; MIDI connectivity is not required. Configure the track’s input to receive the signal from the synth and arm it for recording.

2. Record Multiple Variations: Instead of recording to a clip, activate the main project recording function. Perform the same note several times to capture the inherent sonic variations of the analog hardware.

3. Multi-Sample Conversion:

   • Locate the recording in Bitwig’s Master Recordings folder and drag the audio file onto a new instrument track. By default, this will likely load as a single sampler instance.

   • Right-click the sample and select the option to convert it to a multi-sample.

   • Open the multi-sample editor to access the detailed view.

4. Sample Slicing and Duplication:

   • Within the editor, you will see the full audio recording. The next step is to define the start and end points for each individual note performance.

   • Isolate the first note. Bitwig’s zero-crossing snapping feature is invaluable here for creating clean, click-free edits.

   • Duplicate this initial sample zone.

   • On the duplicated zone, adjust the start and end markers to isolate the next recorded note.

   • Continue this process of duplicating and defining zones for each note variation you recorded.

5. Activate Round Robin Logic:

   • Select all the sample zones you’ve just created.

   • In the zone logic panel on the left, change the playback mode from the default “Always Play” to “Round Robin”.

   • The sonic difference is immediate and significant. The static, lifeless quality of a single sample is replaced by the dynamic, shifting character of true analog sound, as each note triggers a slightly different sample variation.

6. Set the Root Key: A final, crucial step is to correctly define the root key for your samples. If the note recorded was a G, select all zones and set their root key to G. This ensures accurate pitch tracking when playing melodies and chords on the keyboard.

7. Refine and Implement: The resulting instrument is now ready for use. You can apply standard synthesis parameters like ADSR envelopes, filters, and effects. This new instrument is remarkably CPU-efficient, as it relies on simple sample playback. It also responds well to pitch shifting, maintaining its core character even when transposed.

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Conclusion

This workflow offers an effective and efficient method for capturing the authentic sound of analog hardware within Bitwig. By creating a few sample variations and enabling the round robin function, you can produce a far more convincing and musically satisfying result, preserving the lively spirit of your analog instruments.