Random Shift Register Sequencer (Patreon)

In this video, I walk through using Bitwig's Node Grid to create random notes for the Polymer synthesizer without using a MIDI keyboard. Instead, I use various modules within the Grid to generate, scale, and quantize these notes, ultimately producing a more musical and controlled sequence.

Key Points:

Polymer Synthesizer Setup:

Monophonic mode with voice-circuit off.

Remove the node input and generate random notes using the Dice module.

Generate eight equally spaced triggers within one bar using the Triggers module.

Scaling and Quantizing Notes:

Use an Attenuate module to scale down the range of notes to within one octave.

Quantize the notes to the C major scale using a Quantizer.

Creating Repetition:

Implement a Shift Register to store and recall the sequence of notes.

Use a Trigger module to shift and record values in the Shift Register.

Playback Control:

Use a Select module and a button to control recording.

Merge module to connect outputs to inputs for sequence playback.

Use a Counter module to step through the sequence, creating a stepped ramp signal.

Sequence Modification:

Implement playback direction changes with a Curve module.

Adjust playback length and add randomization to sequence repetition using a Dice module.

Ensure the root note is included for clear scale identification.

Extended Features:

Generate additional random values for velocity and pressure/timbre using separate Dice modules.

Record these values into the sequence and use them to modulate aspects like filter modulation.

This setup demonstrates a flexible way to create a recordable, random note generator within Bitwig's Grid, allowing for dynamic and controlled musical outputs.

Download Preset: https://bit.ly/4czvu8N

Video transcribed, summarized and Q&A on my Blog (no ads): https://bit.ly/3RFC05S