Loop Quantization with Backward Trimming to Nearest Cycle Point
under review
Flavelius
Description
This feature request proposes enhancing loop quantization by introducing an option to trim recordings backward to the nearest cycle point. The goal is to improve the recording experience, especially for users without foot pedals, by allowing loops to end at the closest cycle boundary when stopping slightly after the intended point.
Problems
- Manual Adjustment Required: Currently, if a user stops recording slightly after a cycle ends, the loop extends to the next full cycle, necessitating manual trimming to achieve the desired length.
- Inflexible Quantization: The existing quantization system prolongs loops to the next cycle regardless of how close the stop point is to the previous cycle boundary, which can disrupt the musical flow.
- Limited Options: Users lack the flexibility to choose how loops are quantized upon stopping, restricting their ability to tailor the recording process to their performance style.
Proposed Solution
- Backward Trimming Option: Introduce a setting that allows loops to be quantized by trimming backward to the nearest cycle point if the stop occurs shortly after a cycle ends.
- Quantization Modes: Provide multiple quantization options—forward (default), backward, and closest—to give users control over how loops are finalized.
- User-Configurable Threshold: Allow users to define a threshold (e.g., a percentage of the cycle length) within which the system decides whether to trim forward or backward.
Examples
- Live Performance: A guitarist without a foot pedal stops recording slightly after a 4/4 cycle ends. With backward trimming enabled, the loop ends at the 4/4 mark instead of extending to 8/4, maintaining the intended rhythm.
- Studio Recording: A producer records a loop and stops at 5/4. The system trims the loop back to 4/4, aligning it with the project's time signature and eliminating the need for manual editing.
- Practice Sessions: A drummer practicing with loops benefits from the closest quantization mode, ensuring that loops end at the nearest cycle point, whether the stop occurs slightly before or after the intended boundary.
Benefits
- Enhanced Workflow Efficiency: Reduces the need for manual loop adjustments, streamlining the recording process.
- Improved Musicality: Ensures loops align with the intended rhythm, preserving the musical integrity of performances.
- Greater Flexibility: Offers users customizable quantization options to suit various recording scenarios and personal preferences.
This summary was automatically generated by ChatGPT-4 on 2025-05-09.
Paul
Exactly what I came here to request, thankyou! Just my 2c: default behaviour would simply be closest cycle (so 3/4 would wait 1/4, and 5/4 would trim down 1/4...). This would mean that if you tap "roughly" on the beat you get the same expected behaviour (whether you're a few ms early or late). But 3 quantization options (closest, backwards, forwards) would be amazing.
ultracello
under review