Expert Sleepers Disting EX

MUSICAL FEATURES

Super Disting EX Plus Alpha, or Disting EX, is an evolved version of the Disting mk4 , a versatile module packed with numerous utility features . It can operate as two independent Disting modules or as a single high-performance module. In addition to the audio samples, wavetables, and presets included on the MicroSD card that comes with the module, you can also use the additional content available on the Expert Sleepers website .

• Disting Mk4 Operates as two units (dual mode).In this case, the difference from Disting EX's Disting mk4 is that the sample rate upper limit (96 kHz in EX), RAM increased, and the sample trigger latency dropped to 700 uS. In EX, the display is OLED.
• It operates as a stand-alone high-performance module (single mode).You can use algorithms that are not available in regular Disting, such as Matrix Mixer, Augustus Loop, Polyphonic Sample Player, etc.

HOW TO USE

Basic operation

The Disting EX has 6 analog inputs and 4 analog outputs and is designed with a DC coupling to accommodate any Eurorack signal approximately ± 10V wide.The inputs are the jacks labeled with numbers on a white background, and the outputs are the four jacks at the bottom of the module. The Disting mk4's Z, X, Y, A, B are also labeled orange. Disting EX has two rotary encoders (P and V, usually for'Parameter'and'Value') and two rotary knobs (L and R, left and right), all four controls are push-push. It also has a button function.

In the Disting mk4, the Z knob and Z jack are always linked, and the Z jack LED indicates the combination of knob value and jack signal.This is true in Disting EX dual mode, but in single mode the knobs are completely independent of the jack, so the jack LED only shows the input signal.

Menu

Many of the module's non-real-time features are accessed through menus.Press "P" in single mode and "P" and "V" at the same time in dual mode to enter the menu.On the menu screen, scroll the item with "P" and click to select it (if the menu is a submenu, it goes down to the next menu hierarchy). Click "V" to go up one menu level, and press and hold to return to the normal screen from the menu screen.

Single mode and dual mode

The Disting EX is designed based on the Disting mk4 and can basically be used as two Disting mk2s with a shared display (dual mode).The difference from Disting mk4 in this case is that the sample rate upper limit (96kHz in EX), RAM is increased, and the latency of the sample trigger is reduced to 700uS.In EX, the display is OLED.on the other hand,In single mode, the module operates as a single high-performance module and executes Disting EX's unique algorithm.Switch modesSelect either "Algorithms"> "Choose single" or "Enter dual mode" from the menu screen.

Single-Mode Concept - Presets and mappings are fundamental elements that define the operation of a single-mode algorithm. Presets are the state of the algorithm's parameters, a set of numerical values ​​that control how the algorithm operates. Examples include the delay time for a delay effect or the selection of sample files in a WAV playback algorithm. Mappings define how parameters are controlled from various control sources such as MIDI and I2C, centered around the module's CV input.

Dual Mode Presets - Similar to the Disting mk4, each side can save and load presets, but the number of available slots has increased to 256. Additionally, the main menu allows you to save and load "Dual presets" that save all parameters for both sides.

Presets

Disting EX presets store the following information:

• Preset name
• Current algorithm
• Algorithm parameters
• Mappings loaded when loading presets
• Current parameters
• Selected "Z" function (dual algorithm)
• Any filename / folder name used by the algorithm (single algorithm)

Presets can be stored in the module's flash memory, MicroSD card, or both.It is also possible to save all 256 presets to a MicroSD card at once.All preset functions are accessed via the "Presets" menu in the top menu hierarchy.

mappings

The mapping stores all the information about how the parameters of the algorithm are controlled by CV or MIDI.Mappings are treated differently than presets because they are changed less frequently than presets.Mappings can also be stored in the module's flash memory, MicroSD card, or both.Flash memory has 64 mapping slots.It is also possible to save 64 mappings to a MicroSD card.All mapping functions are accessed via the "Mappings" menu in the top menu hierarchy.For all types of mapping, only the first 64 parameters of the algorithm can be mapped.

CV mapping

By using CV mapping, you can control the parameters of the algorithm from the 6 CV inputs of the module.You can assign all parameters to one CV input at the same time and set the response of each parameter to that CV individually. CV mapping offsets manually set values.That is, the parameter value calculated from the CV voltage is added to the value set with the P and V knobs.When switching to the new algorithm, some CV mappings may be set by default.Even for parameters that do not have a valid CV mapping set by default, the CV scaling is set properly so that you can control the parameter in a proper way simply by enabling the CV input, which is usually the case. Maps the ± 5V range over the entire parameter range.On the mapping edit screen, use the P knob to move the cursor and the V or R knob to adjust the cursor value.The cursor positions are the following five.

• Parameter number --Select the mapping of the parameter you want to edit.
• input --Select the CV input you want to use.
• CV polarity --Select Bipolar if you want to use both positive and negative CV voltages, and Unipolar if you want to use only the positive.
• Whether to treat CV as a gate --Select "Norm" to treat it as a normal CV, and select "Gate" to treat it as a gate.In gate type mapping, the maximum and minimum values ​​of the parameter are switched at the input of 1V or more.
• CV scaling --Set the relationship between the incoming voltage and the parameter value.For example, when CV input 20.0 controls the input level with 4% / V scaling, the input level becomes 5% with 100V CV.

Knob mapping

Knob mapping allows you to control algorithm parameters from the module's L and R knobs.All parameters can be assigned to one knob at the same time, and the response of each parameter to the knob can be set individually.Knob mapping can offset manually set values ​​(the parameter values ​​calculated from the knobs are added to the preset values), or you can set the parameter values ​​directly.Some knob mappings may be set by default when switching to the new algorithm.Even for parameters that don't have knob mapping by default, the knob scaling is set properly, so simply enabling the knob will control the parameter properly and will usually map the knob to the full range of parameters. ..On the mapping edit screen, use the P knob to move the cursor and the V or R knob to adjust the cursor value.The cursor positions are the following six.

• Parameter number --Select the mapping of the parameter you want to edit.
• Knob --Select the knob you want to use.Select a hyphen if you do not want to use it.
• Offset the parameter value with the knob (""Rel "Is relative mode) or set directly ("Abs "Is absolute mode).
• KnobUnipolar(Range 0 to 1) orBipolarIs it (range ± 1)?This is to make it easier to set the following scale and offset values.
• Of the knoboffset, And ↓
• Of the knobス ケ ー ル..These two values ​​define the relationship between the knob position and the value set in the mapping.Values ​​are offset + K * scale, where K is a value in the range "2, 0" or "-1, 1" (depending on Uni / Bi settings).

Button mapping

With button mapping, you can control the parameters of the algorithm by pressing the "L" and "R" knobs on the module.All parameters can be assigned to one button at the same time, and the response of each parameter to that button can be set individually.Button mapping offsets manually set values.The parameter value from the button is added to the value set with the P and V knobs.On the mapping edit screen, use the P knob to move the cursor and the V or R knob to adjust the cursor value.The cursor positions are the following three.

• Parameter number --Select the mapping of the parameter you want to edit.
• ボ タ ン --Select the button you want to use.Select a hyphen if you do not want to use it.
• offset --The value added to the target parameter when the button is pressed.

MIDI mapping

MIDI mapping allows you to control algorithm parameters with MIDI Continuous Controllers (CCs). All parameters can be assigned to a single CC simultaneously, and the response of each CC to that CC can be set individually. MIDI mapping can be used to control modules from MIDI devices or MIDI controller software. As an example, you can see a convenient layout for Touch OSC on this page . With MIDI mapping, the basic parameter values ​​are set in exactly the same way as if you were manually changing the values ​​with the V knob. When you switch to a new algorithm, the default MIDI mapping is applied, and parameters 7 and above (all except common attribute converter parameters) will be controlled by MIDI CC 7 and above. The range of CC values ​​from 0 to 127 is mapped to the entire range of parameter values. In the mapping editing screen, the P knob moves the cursor, and the V or R knob adjusts the cursor value. There are six cursor positions:

• Parameter number --Select the mapping of the parameter you want to edit.
• CC number --Select the MIDI CC number you want to use to control the parameters.
• Enable / disable setting
• CC is normal (Standard) Or symmetric (Sym). For Norm, the range 0-127 is mapped to the entire range set by the min & max settings below. If Sym is selected, the value 64 is mapped to the midpoint of the range, and values ​​above and below are scaled by half of the entire range.Symmetrical mapping is suitable for parameters that have a range of two poles centered on zero (eg panning position) and is useful if you want the center to be exactly zero when the MIDI value is 64.
• minimum value, And ↓
• Maximum parameter value.

Press the P knob while editing a MIDI mapping to enter "MIDI Learn" mode. After enabling Learn, the first CC received by the module will be assigned to the current mapping. There is also a setting whether or not the mapping set in Learn automatically cancels other mappings that use the same CC. Press the P knob again to cancel Learn.Disting EX can also use MIDI mapping in reverse to send parameter changes back to the device / software that controls them.This is enabled in the "Send CCs" settings (below).The choices are "Off", "On preset load", "On parameter change", and "Both".

I2C mapping

I2C mapping allows you to control algorithm parameters via the I2C bus. All parameters can be assigned to a single I2C controller simultaneously, and the response of each parameter to that controller can be set individually. With I2C mapping, the base parameter values ​​are set in exactly the same way as if you were manually changing the values ​​with the V knob. When you switch to a new algorithm, the default I2C mapping is applied, controlling I2C controllers 0 and above, and parameters 7 and above (all except common attenuator parameters). The controller range of 0 to 16383 is mapped to the entire range of parameter values. In the mapping editing screen, the P knob moves the cursor, and the V or R knob adjusts the cursor value. There are six cursor positions:

• Parameter number --Select the mapping of the parameter you want to edit.
• Controller number --Select the I2C controller used to control the parameters.
• Enabled / disabledsettings of
• CC is normal (Standard) Or symmetric (Sym). For Norm, the range 0-16383 is mapped to the entire range set by the min & max settings below. If Sym is selected, the value 8192 is mapped to the midpoint of the range, and values ​​above and below are scaled by half of the entire range.Symmetrical mapping is suitable for parameters that have a range of two poles centered on zero (eg panning position) and is useful if you want the center to be exactly zero when the controller value is 8192.
• minimum value, And ↓
• Maximum parameter value.

Press the P knob while editing the I2C mapping to enter "I2C Learn" mode. After enabling Learn, the first I2C controller received by the module will be assigned to the current mapping. There is also a setting whether or not the mapping set in Learn automatically cancels other mappings that use the same controller. Press the P knob again to cancel Learn.

Load mapping

Read the mapping from flash memory. Use the P knob to select a mapping slot.The mapping name will be displayed at the bottom of the screen, or "Empty" will be displayed if the slot is empty.It also shows the algorithm in which the mapping was saved. 

Save mapping

Saves the current module mapping state to flash memory. Use the P knob to select a mapping slot.If the slot is not empty, the mapping name and algorithm will be displayed.

Reset mapping

Resets the current mapping to its initial state (current algorithm).

Name mapping

Edit the current mapping name.It is useful to edit the mapping before saving it. Use the P knob to move the cursor, and the V or R knob to edit the cursor character.

LORD from SD CARD

Read the mapping from the MicroSD card. Use the P knob to select the mapping file you want to load.The mapping file is stored at the top level of the card or in a folder.If the folder contains files, you will also see (folder) in addition to the name you can select with the P knob. You can enter the folder by pressing the P knob and browse the internal mapping files. Select <..> to return to the parent folder.

Save to Sd Card

Save the current mapping to a file on the SD card.The file is placed in the root folder and the filename is automatically generated from the mapping name.

Lord All from SD Card

Read the "All Mappings" file from the MicroSD card.Note that this feature replaces all mappings stored in flash memory with a file that reads from the card. Use the P knob to select the mapping file to load.

Save All to SD Card

Saves all mappings in flash memory to a file on the MicroSD card.The file is placed in the root folder and the file name is "ALL" .dexmappings ".Is an increasing number to identify the file name.

Single Mode Algorithms

This section introduces Disting EX's unique algorithms. It is not possible to run multiple single-mode algorithms simultaneously. Click on the algorithm name to watch the explanatory video for each algorithm. Please refer to the manual for detailed parameter information for each algorithm.

Matrix Mixer - This flexible 6-input, 4-output mixer is primarily designed for CV processing, but can also handle audio signals. This algorithm allows for static mixing, as well as complex and dynamic mixing using CV mapping, or even CV generation. For example, by automating input and output offsets, it can generate four CVs that control patches within the system in a "macro" style.

Augustus Loop - Named after the original Expert Sleepers VST plugin, this algorithm is a tape delay-inspired stereo delay. The delay time, configurable via manual, tap tempo, or external clock, can reach up to approximately 44 seconds. The tape speed can be changed via CV, and patching modulation allows for a range of effects from subtle detune to extreme changes. The tape can also be stopped or reversed. Additionally, input 5, the Pitch CV input, changes the tape speed with a 1V/Oct scaling. Four tape read heads, each with independent delay time and stereo position, enable simple stereo delay/ping-pong delay/hybrid multi-tap delay. Inertia free mode relates to how the algorithm behaves when the delay time is changed by modifying the master delay time, multiplier, or the four LL, LR, etc. When Inertia free mode is disabled, the effect behaves as if the physical tape heads of a tape machine were adjusting the gap between the read/write heads along the tape. When Inertia free mode is enabled, the algorithm introduces a more subtle effect by crossfading between the old and new delay times. The crossfade time can be set with the "Inertia fade time" parameter. Also, when Inertia free mode is enabled, the algorithm is limited to operating at 48kHz.

SD Multisample --This algorithm is an 8-voice polyphony sample player that plays WAV files from a MicroSD card. This algorithm, which can be set up to three CV / Gate input pairs or controlled via MIDI, supports both velocity switches and per-sample round-robin.Also, of the companyGeneral CVImplement a module-based code / arpeggio generator.The algorithm is based on the Disting mk4's J-6 Multisample Audio Playback, but offers more capabilities than the mk4's.The gate input is velocity responsive, and the voltage of the gate signal is treated like the velocity of a MIDI note, with a maximum velocity of 5V.Also, the algorithm isScalaSupports microtonal tuning using software. --- Explainer video 2

SD 6 Triggers - Designed primarily for drum sample playback, this algorithm offers six voices with independent trigger inputs and sample selection. It surpasses the capabilities of the Disting mk4's "I-8 Dual Audio Playback with Z-Speed" and supports velocity switching and sample-by-sample round-robin. The algorithm's gate input is also velocity-responsive, with the gate signal voltage treated like a MIDI note velocity. 5V corresponds to the maximum velocity. Each input triggers a different voice, such as triggering input 1 triggering voice 1, and so on.

WAV Recorder - This algorithm records audio (or CV) as a WAV file to a MicroSD card. It can record up to 6 channels of audio at 48 or 96kHz, 16 or 24-bit. Various WAV playback algorithms offer even more possibilities, and it can also play back previous recordings. It also implements an "Auto Sampler" function that automatically captures multi-samples. - Explanation Video 2

Multi Switch - This algorithm provides six highly configurable sequential/VC switches. Disting EX is designed with DC coupling, allowing it to handle both audio and CV signals. Each switch consists of two parts: an "Input sub-switch" that selects one of the module's six inputs, and an "Output sub-switch" that selects one of the module's four outputs. The selected input is routed to the selected output. If multiple switches share the same output, their signals are summed. Each sub-switch can also crossfade during transitions; a short fade prevents a clicking sound during transitions, while a longer fade blends the sources. Switches can be controlled via CV input or by one of the Macro parameters controlled by a knob, button, MIDI, or I2C.

Looper - This algorithm provides four simultaneously usable loopers, each featuring the two buttons Record/Overdub and Play found on many effect pedal-style loopers. The loopers can operate in 8/16/32-bit and mono/stereo modes, with adjustable maximum loop times. In the default 16-bit mono setting, each of the four loops will have a maximum loop time of approximately 21 seconds. The inputs and outputs of each looper are flexibly configurable, allowing them to share inputs and outputs, assign their own, or be set somewhere in between. Output mix controls are also provided for monitoring each loop and the input mix. Each loop and overdub is crossfaded, all designed to easily create smooth ambient loops. All of these loop creation processes can be synchronized to a clock input. Each loop can also be played in reverse and at half speed (one octave down).

DreamMachine --Inspired by the theory of American contemporary musician La Monte Young, this algorithm is designed for drone creation and enables the quest for non-traditional harmonies based on prime ratios.The output is a combination of five notes, consisting of a fundamental and four harmonies.The prime ratio, which defines the relationship between each frequency, is controlled by parameters.The algorithm uses wavetable synthesis to generate the tone.The fundamental tone can also be set to a pure sine wave / triangular wave / square wave.Each tone implements a simple attack / release envelope controlled by its own gate parameters.

Filter Bank - This algorithm provides a bank of eight parallel stereo bandpass filters/resonators. The level of each filter can be controlled manually and via CV, or via an envelope activated by the input gate. The pitch of each can also be set manually, via CV, or via MIDI. It also includes eight built-in LFOs that can be applied to the level of each filter. The resonators, in particular, are well-suited for playing as chords via MIDI, like on the Alesis Quadraverb Plus. The filters can be set to resonator, bandpass, or multiband. A resonator is a peaked all-pass filter that greatly emphasizes a narrow bandwidth around the center frequency. A bandpass filter is a basic type of filter that attenuates frequencies far from the center frequency. In either of the above modes, all eight filters are completely independent. However, in multiband mode, depending on the filter frequency, a series of crossover points are set, similar to a multiband compressor. Thus, the frequencies passing through each band are limited on the one hand by its own frequency and on the other hand by the frequency of the next band.

Poly Wavetable - This algorithm is a full 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer using wavetable oscillators. Each voice has two envelopes, a filter, an LFO, and delay and chorus effects. The algorithm can be played equally well via CV/Gate or MIDI. When using CV/Gate, the gate input is velocity-responsive. Automatic chord generation and an arpeggiator are also provided. Outputs can be stereo or mono mix, or each voice can have its own output. The algorithm also supports microtonal tuning using Scala .

Granualtor - This algorithm implements a granular synthesis engine and can use either real-time audio input or audio loaded from a MicroSD card as source material. Granular synthesis works by playing short sound fragments, or "grains," typically around 100 milliseconds in length. In many cases, various properties of the grain, such as timing, length, pitch, and stereo pan, are randomized to some extent. In this algorithm, grain generation is controlled by notes. Notes can be input to the engine via CV/Gate pairs or MIDI/i2c, similar to Poly Wavetable, and control the start and end timing of the grain cloud, as well as affecting other properties such as the grain's pitch. This algorithm also includes three "drone" voices, which can be easily enabled using the standard parameter interface. When using the algorithm as an audio processing effect, one or more of these drones can be enabled to manipulate other grain parameters. As with other algorithms, you can select 0 to 3 CV/Gate pairs to play the notes. Reducing the number of CV/Gate pairs available allows for more inputs to be mapped to the CV controls of parameters (the default setting is one CV/Gate pair). Note that the algorithm will not function until audio is recorded or audio is read from a MicroSD card.

Multi FX - This algorithm is a flexible stereo multi-effects processor that allows you to use EQ, pitch effects, delay, and reverb simultaneously. It also offers a creatively applicable Variable Sample Rate function, allowing you to change the internal sampling frequency of the DSP.

Dual Mode Algorithms

Below is an algorithm that runs in dual mode and is not implemented in Disting mk4.

J-5 Oscilloscope - This algorithm implements a simple and convenient 2-channel oscilloscope. X and Y are two signal inputs, and copies of the signals are output from A and B. The display mode, configurable with parameter 0, allows you to select from four different display methods.

K-6 24dB/Oct VCF - This algorithm is a 24dB/Oct low-pass filter that emulates a 4-pole transistor ladder filter. X is the audio input, and both A and B are audio outputs. Y is the CV input for the 1V/Oct response cutoff frequency, and Z is the resonance control, which can self-oscillate at high settings.

K-7 Delay Stereo - This algorithm has the same functions and parameters as Disting mk4's "Stereo Clockable SD Delay," but differs in that it does not use a MicroSD card, and the maximum delay time is 10.9 seconds.

K-8 Delay Stereo Clk - This algorithm has the same functions and parameters as Disting mk4's "Stereo Clockable SD Delay (Z clock)," but differs in that it does not use a MicroSD card, and the maximum delay time is 10.9 seconds.

N-8 Dual VCO - This algorithm provides a dual wavetable VCO. X and Y are pitch inputs with a 1V/Oct response, where 0V = C3 (approximately 130.81Hz). A and B are the outputs of the corresponding VCOs, respectively, with parameter 0 selecting the wavetable.