August 31, 2023: Live sampling of Fender Rhodes with Octatrack Mk2, iPad and Blackbox

Here's a live, improvised sketch in which I sample various pieces of my Mark 1 Rhodes through my Octatrack, Blackbox, and iPad.I've always been deeply fascinated with all of the mechanical noises inside the Rhodes, as well as the possibilities to expand on its bell-like tones.

On the Octatrack, I have 3 thru machines affecting the sound of the Rhodes line output (through a Sansamp Para Driver DI for EQ), omni mics positioned near the tines (monitored through a Sony handheld recorder), and a contact microphone. The other tracks are flex tracks with which I sample and loop these sound sources. The crossfader controls the volume of the DI Rhodes sound.

The blackbox is playing back sampled noise from the output of the Rhodes (static, hissing, pops) that I recorded beforehand. I also have it set to receive and sample/loop audio that I send from the iPad on outputs 3/4 of the interface.

The iPad is running AUM. Most of the work is done by Samplr to loop certain sounds, but I also use Loopy Pro as well as eventide Blackhole for spacious reverb.

The audio is taken directly from the session with a bit of volume boost and limiter applied in post. No other adjustments or edits were made.

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