Dynamic Control Plugins
Maybe "Dynamic Control Plugins" would be a better name, because we would not just want to do the ususal MIDI tweaks but also apply similar manipulation to the data that flows around Logic in the automation and mixing functionality. I would like the option to open a "Dynamic Control Plugin" in a channel strip slot ...
Ok, here are my three current wishes/suggestions.
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The first one does not fit into this thread but is a long-term wish of mine:
Audio: Random Delay
A delay that allows positive and negative (!) values up to, say, 500 ms. Maybe 250 ms is enough for most applications. The negative delay is of course not usable in real time but in the mix.
Parameter 1:
The range, either in milliseconds or as a percentage of the full range. It sets the maximum of delay in both directions.
Parameter 2:
Weighting between forward and backwards delay. We need a preceding delay only or a following delay and anything between.
Parameter 3:
A factor for randomization. It tells if the behavior is fully random or rather floating with adjustable steps. If you have a long negative/positive delay you usually don't want it to jump from -250 ms right to +380 ms. The possible delay time is given by the overall time range but the deviation of the time should also be controlled.
Parameter 4:
Audio quality/behavior. A non-static delay causes slipping audio and that must be controlled to avoid unpleasent distortion of the tone. There should be a smooth mode that is as good as possible and probably rough modes for effects. This feature goes beyond my technical understanding, maybe it has to do with some buffers and internal mixing.
Other parameters:
Panning, volume, high/Low cut, feedback, pitch control. Probably an LFO that works on pitch and/or volume would be a good addition. The plugin should be able to work in synced mode but it will mostly be used in free mode (for overdubs, synthetic choirs and whatever).
Interface:
Mostly normal controls. I just see a problem with the range/weighting parameters. They are very abstract if done as knobs or faders. They would better be made as a ruler with two marks (negative/positive) where you set the amount of delay graphically. Best would be to have a fine/coarse mode because small delays are hard to adjust.
Some time ago a developer did almost program such a delay for me, without a fancy interface, but he stopped development as it was half done. We didn't have a problem, I think he just lost interest. The function was ok, the sound quality was not at its best but so far I heard there was room for improvement.
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Audio/MIDI: Universal Trigger
A realtime plugin. It reads an audio stream and at certain levels and/or frequencies it sends MIDI messages out. Basically it works like apTrigga or Drumagog but is specialized on MIDI processing rather than throwing audio samples for drum replacement.
At the first glance one may understand it as Audio-to-MIDI software like the Widisoft plugin. But the focus is not on recognizing correct pitches or even chords but rather on trigger levels.
The plugin should work on several independent channels. Each channel has an input level meter where you can set upper and lower thresholds. And an equalizer with different filter types.
Level parameters:
The levelmeter has a trim knob to set the gain for difficult signals. Maybe it could have a simple compressor/expander either. Beside or over the level meter are two adjustable threshold marks. Selectors allow to trigger only within the range, within and below and within and above. The reaction time should be adjustable because often we don't want to shoot a MIDI message out if the level just rushes through a threshold range. Synth pads would be targets for such a slower control.
Tone control:
Each channel should have a 3-band Equalizer with different filter types. Most application want steep filters but soft filters are also thinkable, see below.
Fine controls:
The outgoing trigger messages should correspond to the loudness of audio material. A loud audio part sends high values, a quiet part low values. The range should be adjustable and the whole function can be turned off.
Streaming MIDI:
This is a bit complex and I can only suggest the function but not fully describe it. The audio level should be constantly observed, preferably synced to the DAW tempo, and send a stream of MIDI messages that represent the current level. That way synthesizers could follow an audio signal, volume-wise. I don't know if this feature should be available in all trigger channels.
Audio Output:
We should be able to get the original audio signal at the plugin output, to put the plugin easily in any channelstrip. And it would be good to have another function available, that does not output the original signal but a generated audio signal. Be it pink noise or whatever, something that can be used for compressor sidechains for example.
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MIDI: Universal LFO
Not much to say about it. MIDI LFO's exist since decades and all flavours are known. It's just a matter of experience, discussion and development to make the best LFO on the planet as an AU MIDI plugin.
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<admin hat on>
My apologies to alienimplant, we are on the way to hijack his forum thread.
I will just wait if the idea of armchair-development of plugins and asking developers to build them generates some resonance here apart from Per's immediate response. If yes, we will make a new thread and bring some system into the process, like a "discussion area" and "approved suggestions" or something like that. If the resonance isn't great we will either forget about it or make it a private project.
<admin hat off>
