SM Pro Audio
Page 15 of 66
V-‐Machine Operating Manual
6
Freedom comes with responsibility!
The V-‐Machine is an extremely flexible device. As such we urge you to understand how
creating a preset sound without due consideration of the possible pitfalls can lead to
unexpected results.
Just as a master builder with a lot of experience will often build a masterpiece, a less
experienced builder may take some time to achieve similar results. This analogy is also true
when creating preset sounds for use on the V-‐Machine. With patience and experience you will
learn how to get the most out of the V-‐Machine.
Please read this manual to understand the some of the concepts you need to be aware of when
creating your presets. Consideration should be given to things such as the impact of CPU
intensive plugins, whether you need to adjust buffer setting per sound for latency refinement,
and keeping gain structures under control so your preset does not over load the V-‐Machine’s
DAC (digital audio converter).
The V-‐Machine and the VFX application are the tools, what you do with them is up to you!
6.1
Building your own sounds – Main considerations
6.1.1
Excessive gain staging resulting in digital clipping
Digital clipping sounds terrible and is definitely something to be avoided. Preset sounds
created without proper gain staging consideration can result in digital clipping in the V-‐
Machines output converters.
Gain staging is the art of setting multiple gain controls in the signal path to achieve the cleanest
possible resulting signal. Too much gain in the signal path prior to conversion at the DAC
(Digital Audio converter) results in digital clipping.
Possible gain stages in signal path when creating Presets in the VFX Application;
•
Plugin output gain settings (plugins can clip within themselves, check the plugin GUI)
•
VFX application Individual channel Gain controls
•
VFX application FX 1&2 Bus Gain controls
•
VFX application Main channel Gain control
Adding plugins in chains and layers can often build up excessive gain in the overall preset thus
overdriving the V-‐Machine’s DAC.
Set your levels according to the maximum velocity you will be playing the preset sound from
your MIDI keyboard. This allows for dynamic playing without clipping.
Quick Tips:
•
Put a limiter plugin on the master output channel! (If you have enough CPU power
available)
•
Keep an eye on the V-‐Machines vertical status meters on the right hand side of the
display during operation. The Stereo inputs and outputs can be monitored visually and
offer valuable information when configuring or adjusting Presets
6.1.2
Use the presets wisely
Try to use presets as much as possible rather than building up layers of sounds in the Mixer.
This is a powerful way to get the most out of the V-‐Machine. You can quickly toggle between
