Alesis Mastering Timing with MMT QUANTIZE Features

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15 QUANTIZE

The QUANTIZE button is used to correct the timing of notes to any desired beat value. QUANTIZE only moves note events, and does not alter controllers, pitch bend, after touch, program change, and system exclusive information. While holding down the QUANTIZE button in part mode, the most recently recorded track will be lit, and the display will read:

The 10 quantize choices are 1/2, 1/4, 1/6, 1/8, 1/12, 1/16, 1/24, 1/32, 1/48, 1/64. The +/- buttons or the keypad can be used to scroll through the choices. The keypad buttons 0-9 can also be used to select the quantize value directly, with 0=1/2 and 9=1/64. The track select buttons can be used to select the desired track(s) to be quantized. When QUANTIZE is first pressed, all eight track LEDs will be lit, indicating that all tracks will be quantized if RECORD is pressed. If a track button is pressed, all other tracks will turn off, and only that track will be selected. From that point on, each track select button will turn on or off its associated LED, so that any combination of tracks can be selected to be quantized. Pressing the RECORD button initiates the quantizing, and changes the display to:

This display remains until the RECORD button is released, which then returns the sequencer to its previous quantize display. The quantization process changes the start point of each note to the nearest quantize beat, but leaves the note release point where it was, which changes the actual note duration. Other quantizing options can be selected by using the page up and page down buttons. Pressing the page up button scrolls through the following choices:

If RECORD is pressed with QUANTIZE NOTE START & END being displayed, the release times of the notes will also be quantized to the selected quantize beat. If NOTE END is selected, only the release times of the notes will be quantized. If KEEP DURATION is selected, a note's duration will remain constant, i.e., if the start of a note is moved 1/16 note ahead, the release will also move 1/16 ahead.

In SONG mode, the QUANTIZE button is used to select an amount of clock offset for each track in a song. These offsets are global settings used by all songs, and do not affect the individual parts directly. The purpose of this feature is to allow the user to compensate for MIDI delays, and sound devices with slow attack times. While holding the QUANTIZE button in SONG mode, the first track LED will light, all others will be off, and the display will read as follows:

The value can be set from -48 to +48 384th notes (+/- 1/2 note) by using the keypad or the +/- buttons. Positive values represent a shift forward in time, and negative values represent a shift backward in time.

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Contents Multi track Midi recorder Alesis MMT-8Page Length Erase Page Introduction Selecting a Part Part ModeSelecting and Playing a Part Part buttonFAST-FORWARD Recording a Part Selecting the Record TrackEntering Record Page Length Erase Erasing a PartErasing a single Track Erasing a Song Copying a Track to itself CopyCopying a Part to itself Copying a Part to another PartCopying a Track to another Track of a different Part Copying a Track to another Track of the same PartCopying a Song to another Song Copying a Song to itselfEditing a Part EditPage Adding an event Erasing an eventAutomatic Track selection and muting at each step of a Editing and Creating a SongSelecting a Song Song ModeManual Track selection and muting in Song mode Song buttonPage Loop Midi Echo Name Merge Midi Channel Quantize Page Transpose Tempo Midi Filter Clock Page Click Tape Page Storing to disk using Midi system exclusive data dump Recording the sync tone Syncing the MMT-8 to tapeTo clock the MMT-8 from tape sync START/STOP footswitch Memory Remaining memoryClearing memory Part Mode Song ModeAuto Locate Midi Implementation Chart Troubleshooting Chart
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MMT-8 specifications

The Alesis MMT-8 is a powerful MIDI sequencer that made waves in the late 1980s and continues to be a favored tool for musicians and producers seeking a reliable means to create and control MIDI sequences. Known for its user-friendly interface and robust feature set, the MMT-8 allows users to compose, edit, and play back complex musical arrangements with relative ease.

One of the standout features of the MMT-8 is its 8-track sequencing capability, enabling musicians to sequence multiple MIDI instruments simultaneously. Each track can hold up to 99 phrases, allowing for a high degree of musical flexibility. The MMT-8 supports up to 16 MIDI channels, making it an ideal choice for composing intricate arrangements that involve a variety of sound sources.

The unit boasts a straightforward, intuitive interface that is designed to streamline the workflow. With a dedicated LCD screen and an array of buttons, users can navigate through the various functions with ease. The MMT-8 features real-time and step-time recording modes, providing options for different styles of input, whether one prefers to perform live or program sequences note-by-note.

In terms of sound manipulation, the MMT-8 includes advanced editing capabilities such as quantization, transposition, and velocity adjustments. These features allow musicians to refine their compositions and achieve a polished sound. Additionally, the sequencer supports note durations, triplets, and tuplets, which gives users even more control over timing and rhythm.

Another notable technology of the MMT-8 is its ability to sync with other MIDI devices. It supports MIDI Clock and Song Position Pointer, ensuring tight synchronization when being used in conjunction with other gear. Users can also take advantage of its extensive MIDI data transmission capabilities, which enable seamless interaction between the MMT-8 and external synthesizers, drum machines, and sound modules.

The Alesis MMT-8 has a built-in memory that allows for expansive storage capabilities, with the option to save and recall sequences easily. Users can store up to 40,000 notes and can manage multiple projects without worrying about running out of space. Additionally, the sequencer has a battery backup feature to safeguard data integrity.

In summary, the Alesis MMT-8 is a classic MIDI sequencer that combines powerful features, user-friendly interface, and solid reliability. Its 8-track sequencing capabilities, real-time and step-time recording options, and advanced editing functions make it a valuable tool for both novice and professional musicians looking to expand their creative horizons. Whether for studio work or live performances, the MMT-8 continues to be a respected choice in the landscape of MIDI sequencing technology.