Dimension Pro Modulation 101 - Adding Expression to Real Instruments

Step 1. Loading a Multisample

1. Load a fresh instance of Dimension and select E1 (Element 1)
2. Set Mode to '32 bit'
3. Click here to open the multisample browser and load "21 - Vocals/Solo Female Ahh 2.sfz"

Step 2. Set up the Amplifier EQ

1. In the Modulators section, select AMP (Amplifier EG)
2. Set Amp EG Status to 'On'
3. Adjust the EG horizontal zoom so that at least 2 grid sections remain in view (~200+ ms will be displayed in the view)

Get more tips on using Dimension

Visit Project5.com to read the entire series of Dimension tech tips, written by Dimension development lead, René Ceballos.

Step 3. Create an Amp Curve

1. In the bottom left of the EG grid, click on the default node at the bottom-left of the EQ grid and drag it to the top-left corner
2. Insert a Node at approximately Time 100, Level 100
3. Insert another Node at approximately Time 200, Level 0

Step 4. Set Sustain Point

1. Drag the mouse cursor over the Node at Time 100 so that it becomes highlighted
2. Press 'S' -- this sets a Sustain point for Amplitude, indicated by the orange vertical line drawn from the Node

The amplitude of this Element will sustain at this level while a note is held. When you release the note, the amplitude level will follow the contour of the remainder of the envelope (configured in next step).

Step 5. Creating a Natural Release

1. Drag cursor over the Node at Time 200, Level 0 so that it becomes highlighted (as pictured)
2. Press 'N' -- this turns the final curve from light blue (variable curve) to dark blue (a natural curve)
3. Drag the segment upward about 1/10th up the grid

Variable curves are ideal for sounds applied to delay or reverb, but they just don't sound as good when applied to solo real instruments. For a more natural sounding decay, use a natural curve (more CPU intensive but authentic sounding).

Step 6. Add Natural Vibrato

1. In the Modulators section, select P (for Pitch EG)
2. Set Pitch LFO Status to 'On'
3. Click on the LFO Shape once, changing it to a pure sine shape
4. Set Freq to '4.65'
5. Set Delay to '.93'
6. Set Depth to '30'

Now try it out -- the pitch should start wavering as a natural vibrato might just after a brief moment.

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