In reference to our recent tip on guitar synth tracking (TTOTD 5/7/98) we had a couple of additional comments from members of the Sweetwater Sales Staff.
- Nika writes:
- It is absolutely crucial that the guitar be in tune – not only with A440, but also with itself as it moves up the neck. Otherwise, first the translator has to determine what the closest note is, then send a corresponding pitch bend message to bring it to the note that you actually have the guitar tuned to. This is why it is imperative to put the pickups on a high quality guitar, such as a Godin. If the guitar is slightly out of tune with itself it makes tracking much more difficult.
- Jeffrey says:
- The neural network that is used by Axon in their processor can actually learn the player’s technique and make decisions based on the incoming information compared to the network that is in place from previous information. This also allows the fretboard and picking range to be split into zones as opposed to the straight pitch to MIDI converters of the traditional systems. The Axon system also can work well for the low range of bass guitar strings whereas the traditional systems cannot. Dr. David Lee at Music Industries (the driving force behind the Axon system) is really nice and incredibly knowledgeable about the inner workings of system.