Resampling Audio through the Effects

Resampling and Time Compression / Expansion

The Resample routine is found under [EDIT]: [TRIM/LOOP]: [COMMAND key]: RESMPL. This page allows you to (1) adjust the length (longer or shorter) of the playback time (Time Stretch) without affecting the sample’s pitch or (2) to adjust the Pitch directly (Pitch Conversion) without effecting the length. A time Stretch of 100% is no change. 50% plays in half the time, 200% takes twice as long to play, 300% takes 3 times as long, 400% 4 times as long, etc. Beyond a certain point it becomes an unusal effect- but that’s just fine. You can weight the results toward rhythmic accuracy or sound quality. You can time stretch a specific number of samples or set the value via the convenient % scale. You can calculate any exact time or tempo you need. An interesting thing to note is that you can audition how the Time Compression/Expansion or Pitch Conversion will sound before you execute it. This is accomplished by simply pushing and holding the (TmStretch) knob. You can, of course, change the Pitch without changing the tempo.

The RESAMPLE routine is found under the COMMAND key when pressed from [EDIT] mode: [TRIM/LOOP] function. Executing this routine actually re-writes the sample data.

A very useful trick on the A3000 is re-sampling data through the Effect processors. This connection is handled internally by the A3000 operating system. Prepare the sample and apply the effects PLAY mode. You can utilize any or all the effect processors in any manner you wish. 1/2/3/ signifies the 3 processors in parallel. 1Æ2/3 signifies 1 and 2 in series while 3 remains in parallel. 1Æ2Æ3 is all 3 processors in series. When ready, navigate to the [RECORD]: [SETUP]: [Rec Data] page.

Set the INPUT parameter to ST OUT (Stereo Out). This connects the A3000 Stereo output (post Effects) to the record input via internal routing. You can use either triggered record or manual record as your method; the A3000 will resample the data and create a new sample. You can even resample at a lower or higher sample rate, as necessary.

(Notice that nothing can be set on the [RECORD] mode: [EFFECT] function page – the RecEfSw (Record Effect Switch) is forced to off – this page is used for original recordings, only, not re-samples).

Building Custom Volumes

Assembling custom volumes from programs found in other volumes is a simple procedure. You must first load individual Programs from different volumes. Then, after you have the programs you want, you simply create a new Volume and load those programs into your new custom volume. The procedure to load individual Programs into the A3000 is:

1.Navigate to the [DISK]: [DISK]: [Disk] page and select the appropriate source disk- SCSI or floppy.

2.Next navigate to the [DISK]: [VOLUME]: [Volume] page and select the appropriate Volume that contains your favorite Program.

3.Next navigate to the [DISK]: [PROGRAM]: [PgmLoad] page and select your favorite Program from a listing of all Programs in the selected Volume.

4.Now instead of executing the load, press the [COMMAND] key. Here you re-route the selected Program to any of the 128 locations.

A3000, Professional Sampler specifications

The Yamaha A3000 is a professional sampler that has gained recognition for its robust feature set and exceptional sound quality. Launched in the late 1990s, the A3000 was designed to accommodate the needs of both studio and live musicians, providing a range of tools to manipulate and create samples in real-time.

At the core of the A3000’s capabilities is its sample playback functionality. Users can load a variety of audio files, thanks to its support for various sample formats, including WAV and AIFF. The sampler is capable of handling samples up to 64MB of RAM, a significant amount for its time, ensuring that musicians have access to high-quality, layered sounds without worrying about memory limitations.

One of the standout features of the A3000 is its powerful sampling engine. The device allows for extensive editing options, including pitch shifting, time stretching, and filtering. This gives users creative flexibility when constructing sounds or developing complex audio compositions. The inclusion of 16-voice polyphony provides ample room for layering sounds, making it particularly useful for live performances.

The user interface of the A3000 is designed with practicality in mind. The LCD screen allows for easy navigation through various functions, while the intuitive layout ensures that performers and studio engineers can quickly access their desired features. Additionally, the A3000 offers a variety of onboard effects, including reverb, delay, and modulation, enriching the sampling experience.

Connectivity is another strong feature of the A3000. With MIDI input and output, it easily integrates into existing setups and allows for control from MIDI controllers or other devices. The sampler also includes multiple audio outputs, enabling diverse routing options for complex live or studio configurations.

In summary, the Yamaha A3000 professional sampler combines powerful sampling capabilities with a user-friendly interface, making it a versatile tool for both live and studio applications. Its extensive editing features, solid RAM capacity, and comprehensive effects processing empower musicians and sound designers to explore a wide range of sonic possibilities. This innovative sampler has earned its place in the hearts of many audio professionals and continues to be celebrated for its contributions to music production.