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5.2.
Using External Clock and Sync
5.2.1.
Introduction to external clocking.
The MiniP7 has been foreseen with two extra inputs to provide the capability to use
external applied clocking and resetting/syncing.
The MiniP7 internal system mimics the original’s internal clocking system which
switches between 12 and 16 counts per measure depending on the selected rhythm. To
keep the duration of a measure constant, the original Minipops7
TM
internally alters the
clock speed in such a way that the 12 counts take about the same time as the 16 counts.
The same effect has been created in the MiniP7 by creating a system based on
‘overclocking’.
As the original has some nice and hear-able artifacts due to the asynchronous
construction of the counter, its modulus selection and reset mechanism, the
‘overclocking’ in the MiniP7 has the advantage that many of these artifacts allowed to
be reconstructed.
What does this mean with respect to the internal 1/16th clock.
For all 4/4 and 3/4 rhythms the overclocking uses 6 clock generator pulses per 1/16th
note. For all 6/8 or 12/8 rhythms the internal overclocking uses 8 generator pulses per
1/16th note. When using external clocks, this overclocking will be reconstructed with all
pulses equally spread over time to maintain the original’s artifacts.
As to be able to stop the external clock, for undefined time in between pulses, the
MiniP7 generates these internal overclocking pulses at a rate sufficiently high to cope
with 240 BPM for the first beat after a clock stop, and equally spread between all
following beats. One another on the expense of correctly mimicking all artifacts, but
when one stops the clock externally, one overrules the ‘intentions’ and ‘spirit’ of the
original. This will mainly be heard in the Guiro rhythm.
5.2.2.
Functionality of the external clock and sync.
Press buttons 1 and 3 for three seconds to enter the ‘external clocking’ mode
Both Bank select LEDs will dim.
When applying a clock signal to the clock input, the selected Rhythm will start playing.
Stopping the clock
will keep the rhythm in its last position
.
If the clock is stooped somewhere in the middle of a bar, the Guiro may remain
sounding as on that beat its gate may be open for this beat.
Applying a Sync / Reset will put the beat counter back to the first beat, and also stop the
eventual Guiro sound.
When in external clocking mode, the start/stop button will work as a sync/reset.
The selected Bank Select LED will indicate beat 1.
The other Led will blink with the incoming Clock.
Pressing buttons 1 and 3 another three seconds will return the unit to normal function.
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