ARTURIA PE12001 Users Manual

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This manual concerns two distinctive products:

- Spark software, a highly creative beat production center

- Spark Midi controller.

In this package you will find:
A DVD-ROM containing Spark Creative drum machine installer for Mac OS X and
Windows XP/Vista/Seven
A registration card (credit card format) including the Serial Number and Unlock
Code.
7KH8VHU¶V0DQXDOIRU6SDUN&UHDWLYH'rum Machine software and the Spark Midi
Controller.
Spark Midi controller
A USB cable

Carefully store your registration card!
In order to actually use the software, you have to register, then authorize, your
virtual instrument. By registering, you identify yourself as the legitimate owner
and thus will be sure to receive the latest news and updates for your instrument.
The Serial Number and Unlock Code are required to register & authorize Spark,
so these codes are the real value of your product.
(See Chapter 4: Registration for more information about the authorization
process.)

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ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

1

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The MIDI controller uses USB or an external power adapter. Do not connect this
product with any other power supply or adapter than the one described in this
manual specifically recommended by Arturia. (See chapter 8.1.7 Use with
external PSU for more details).

WARNING:
Do not place this product in a place or position where one might walk on, trip
over or roll anything over power or connecting cords.
The use of an extension cord is not recommended! If you must use one, make
sure the cord has the ability to handle maximum current needed by this product.
Please consult a local electrician for more information on your power
requirements.
This product should be used only with the components supplied or recommended
by Arturia. When used with any other components, please observe all safety
markings and instructions that accompany the accessory products.

Specifications Subject to Change:
The information contained in this manual is believed to be correct at the time of
printing. However, Arturia reserves the right to change or modify any of the
specifications without notice or obligation to update existing units.

IMPORTANT:
Always follow the basic precautions listed below to avoid the possibility of serious
injury or even death from electrical shock, damages, fire or other risks.
The product used either alone or in combination with an amplifier, headphones or
speakers, may be able to produce sound levels that could cause permanent
hearing loss. DO NOT operate for long periods of time at a high level or at a level
that is uncomfortable.
If you encounter any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should consult an
audiologist.

NOTICE:
Service charges incurred due to a lack of knowledge relating to how a function or
feature works (when the unit is operating as designed) are not covered by the

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study this manual carefully and consult your dealer before requesting service.

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

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Precautions include, but are not limited to, the following:
Read and understand all the instructions.
Always follow the instructions on the instrument.
Before cleaning the instrument, always remove the electrical plug from the
outlet, as well as the USB cable. When cleaning, use a soft and dry cloth. Do not
use gasoline, alcohol, acetone, turpentine or any other organic solutions; do not
use liquid cleaner, spray or cloth that's too wet.
Do not use the instrument near water or moisture, such as a bathtub, sink,
swimming pool or similar place.
Do not place the instrument in an unstable position where it might accidentally
fall over.
Do not place heavy objects on the instrument. Do not block openings or vents of
the instrument; these locations are used for air circulation to prevent the
instrument from overheating. Do not place the instrument near a heat vent or
any place of poor air circulation.
Only use the recommended specified AC adaptor (9 Vdc, 800 mA)
Make sure the line voltage in your location matches the input voltage specified
on the AC power adaptor.
Do not open and insert anything into the instrument which may cause a fire or
electrical shock.
Do not spill any kind of liquid onto the instrument.
Always take the instrument to a qualified service center. You will invalidate your
warranty if you open and remove the cover, and improper assembly may cause
electrical shock or other malfunctions.
Do not use the instrument with thunder and lightning present; otherwise it may
cause long distance electrical shock.
Do not expose the instrument to hot sunlight.
Do not use the instrument when there is a gas leak nearby.

Arturia is not responsible for any damage or data loss caused by improper
operations to the instrument.

HandLing CD-ROMs:
Avoid touching or scratching the shiny underside (encoded surface) of the disc.
Damaged or dirty CD-ROM disc may not read properly. Keep your CD-ROMs
clean, using a commercially available CD cleaner.

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

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1. Table of Contents

2. INTRODUCTION .................................................................... 7

2.1. W

2.2 H

ELCOME TO SPARK ............................................................................................................................................... 7

ISTORY ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8

3. INSTALLATION ..................................................................... 9

3.1. W

3.2. M

INDOWS INSTALLATION (7/XP/VISTA) ....................................................................................................... 9

AC OSX INSTALLATION (10.5/10.6) ........................................................................................................... 10

4. REGISTRATION & AUTHORIZATION .................................... 11

4.1. R

4.2. A

EGISTRATION ....................................................................................................................................................... 11

UTHORIZATION .................................................................................................................................................... 13

5. QUICK START ..................................................................... 14

5.1. SPARK

5.2. SPARK

5.2.1. The Center panel ...................................................................................................................................... 15

5.2.2. The Bottom panel .................................................................................................................................... 16

5.2.3. The Top panel ............................................................................................................................................ 17

5.3. N

5.3.1. Project........................................................................................................................................................... 18

5.3.2. Kit ................................................................................................................................................................... 18

5.3.3. Instrument .................................................................................................................................................. 18

5.3.4. Audio Source .............................................................................................................................................. 18

5.3.5. Bank ............................................................................................................................................................... 18

5.3.6. Pattern.......................................................................................................................................................... 18

5.3.7. Song ............................................................................................................................................................... 18

5.3.8. Channel ........................................................................................................................................................ 18

5.3.9. Track ............................................................................................................................................................. 18

5.4. A

5.5. F

5.5.1. Loading a project ..................................................................................................................................... 19

5.5.2. Select and play a pattern ...................................................................................................................... 20

5.5.3. Change Instrument parameters ........................................................................................................ 20

5.5.4. Select an instrument and Change filter and mixer parameters ....................................... 21

5.5.5. Play and edit pattern ............................................................................................................................. 22

5.5.6. Record a pattern with instruments pads ....................................................................................... 23

5.5.7. Change Instruments/Kits with jog dial .......................................................................................... 24

5.5.8. Save your project ..................................................................................................................................... 24

5.5.9. Switching views ........................................................................................................................................ 25

CONTROLLER OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................................... 14

SOFTWARE OVERVIEW .......................................................................................................................... 15

AMES AND CONCEPTS YOU SHOULD KNOW ................................................................................................... 18

UDIO AND MIDI SETUP ...................................................................................................................................... 19

IRST STEPS WITH SPARK ................................................................................................................................. 19

6. USING SPARK ..................................................................... 26

6.1. T

6.2. T

6.3. T

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

HE TOOLBAR ........................................................................................................................................................ 26

HE MAIN PANEL (OVERVIEW) ......................................................................................................................... 27

6.2.1. The Digital display .................................................................................................................................. 30

6.2.2. The Sequencer zone ................................................................................................................................ 30

5.2.3 The Song/Pattern zone ......................................................................................................................... 34

5.2.4 The Jog Dial ................................................................................................................................................ 36

5.2.5 The FX live Pad .......................................................................................................................................... 37

5.2.6 The Filter / Slicer / Roller .................................................................................................................... 37

5.2.7 The Instruments control zone ............................................................................................................ 40

HE BOTTOM PANEL (OVERVIEW) ................................................................................................................... 43

6.3.1. The Studio ................................................................................................................................................... 44

6.3.2. The Mixer..................................................................................................................................................... 48

6.3.3. The Library ................................................................................................................................................. 59

4

6.4. T

HE TOP PANEL (OVERVIEW) ........................................................................................................................... 64

6.4.1. Overview ...................................................................................................................................................... 64

6.4.2. The Pattern Panel .................................................................................................................................... 64

6.4.3. The toolbar ................................................................................................................................................. 65

6.4.4. The Sequencer ........................................................................................................................................... 67

6.4.5. The Automation editor .......................................................................................................................... 69

6.4.6. The song panel .......................................................................................................................................... 70

6.4.7. The song slots ............................................................................................................................................ 71

6.4.8. Preferences Button .................................................................................................................................. 72

7. MODES OF OPERATIONS ..................................................... 75

7.1. S

7.2. P

7.3. VST ........................................................................................................................................................................... 78

7.4. A

7.5. P

TANDALONE (OVERVIEW) ................................................................................................................................. 75

7.1.1. Launching the standalone application ........................................................................................... 75

7.1.2. Preferences configuration Ȃ Audio MIDI settings ...................................................................... 75

LUG-IN MODE ....................................................................................................................................................... 77

7.2.1. Toolbar Extra Buttons ........................................................................................................................... 77

7.2.2. Saving project............................................................................................................................................ 77

7.3.1. Installation ................................................................................................................................................. 78

7.3.2. Instrument use in VST mode ............................................................................................................... 78

7.3.3. Connection to an instrument track .................................................................................................. 78

7.3.4. Multi Output Mode .................................................................................................................................. 79

UDIO UNIT (MAC OSX ONLY).......................................................................................................................... 80

7.4.1. Installation ................................................................................................................................................. 80

7.4.2. Use in Logic Pro ........................................................................................................................................ 80

7.4.2.1. Stereo Mode........................................................................................................................................... 81

7.4.2.2. Multi Output Mode ............................................................................................................................. 81

7.4.3. Use in Digital Performer ....................................................................................................................... 82

7.4.3.1. Stereo Mode........................................................................................................................................... 82

7.4.3.2. Multi Output Mode ............................................................................................................................. 83

7.4.3.3. Assign MIDI Track .............................................................................................................................. 83

7.4.4. Stereo Mode and Multi Output Mode .............................................................................................. 83

7.4.4.1. Stereo Mode........................................................................................................................................... 83

7.4.4.2. Multi Output Mode ............................................................................................................................. 84

RO TOOLS .............................................................................................................................................................. 84

7.5.1. Installation ................................................................................................................................................. 84

7.5.2. Utilization and opening of the Plug-in ........................................................................................... 84

7.5.3. Saving the project .................................................................................................................................... 85

7.5.4. Automation under Pro Tools .............................................................................................................. 85

8. THE SPARK MIDI CONTROLLER ........................................... 86

8.1. F

8.2. R

8.3. S

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

RONT PANEL (OVERVIEW) ................................................................................................................................ 86

8.1.1. Device ports ................................................................................................................................................ 86

8.1.2. Choose between Kit or Instrument mode ...................................................................................... 87

8.1.3. Roller FX ...................................................................................................................................................... 87

8.1.4. Use as Spark Controller ......................................................................................................................... 87

8.1.5. Use as MIDI Controller........................................................................................................................... 88

8.1.6. Use as USB/MIDI interface .................................................................................................................. 88

8.1.7. Power Supply ............................................................................................................................................. 88

EAR PANEL (OVERVIEW) .................................................................................................................................. 89

8.2.1. Rear panel Connectors and power supply. .................................................................................... 89

PARK MIDI CONTROLLER SOFTWARE ............................................................................................................ 90

8.3.1. Overview ...................................................................................................................................................... 90

8.3.2. The Interface.............................................................................................................................................. 91

8.3.3. Edit Instrument Pad window .............................................................................................................. 92

8.3.4. Edit Instrument knob window ........................................................................................................... 93

5

8.3.5. Edit Instrument parameter knob window .................................................................................... 94

8.3.6. Edit Clickable knob window ................................................................................................................ 95

8.3.7. Edit Touch pad window ........................................................................................................................ 97

8.4. C

ONTROLLING SPARK WITH EXTERNAL MIDI CONTROLLER.................................................................... 98

8.4.1. Assign a midi note to pads ................................................................................................................... 98

8.4.2. Assign a midi note to bank buttons .................................................................................................. 98

8.4.3. Assign a midi note to pattern buttons ............................................................................................ 98

8.4.4. Assign a midi note to loop on button ............................................................................................... 98

8.4.5. Assign a midi CC to Loop divide knob ............................................................................................. 98

8.4.6. Assign a midi CC to Loop Move knob ............................................................................................... 98

8.4.7. Assign a midi CC to shuffle knob ........................................................................................................ 98

8.4.8. Assign a midi CC to master Volume knob ...................................................................................... 98

8.4.9. Assign a midi CC to cutoff/res/Pan/Aux1/Aux2/Volume knobs ................................. 98

8.4.10. Assign a midi CC to instrument parameters knobs ............................................................... 98

8.4.11. Assign a midi CC to tempo knob ........................................................................................................ 98

9. SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE LEGAL INFORMATION .... 99

9.1. S

9.2. FCC

9.3. CANADA ............................................................................................................................................................. 102

9.4. EUROPE .............................................................................................................................................................. 102

OFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT ...................................................................................................................... 99

INFORMATION (USA) ......................................................................................................................... 102

10. NOTES: ............................................................................. 103

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

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2. INTRODUCTION

2.1. Welcome to Spark

BEAT THE FUTURE
Combining the power of analog synthesis, physical modelling and samples,
through the intuitive workflow of a hardware drum machine, Spark is a highly
creative beat production center. Spark will save you time when looking for the
right drum kit and will get you hooked by its amazing ease-of-use and sound
possibilities.
Spark embeds vintage analog drum machines, sample based beatboxes and
acoustic drum sets. Then Spark lets you break through their sonic boundaries
thanks to a highly tweakable controller.

With in-depth control over your sounds, advanced loop mode, XY touchpad with
8 real time effects, Spark will allow you to create unique beat experiments and
constantly feed your creativity with innovative ideas.

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engines: analog synthesis, sampling and physical modelling. Thanks to its
automations on all parameters, every kit is very tunable and customizable,
bringing a fun and complementary approach to sample browsing / making it
more interactive and user-friendly than ever before.

Incorporating a 16-step sequencer and 8 velocity sensitive touch pads into a
sturdy beat station, Spark is your weapon of choice to bring the best groove into
your tracks whether you are working in the studio or performing on stage.

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

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2.2 History

In early 2001, Arturia began working on advanced algorithms for the digital
emulation of analog circuit audio characteristics. They are known as TAE
standing for

True Analog Emulation. In non-technical language, this is an

®

,

unprecedented way of creating the very unique sound one finds in a synthesizer
such as the Moog Modular. Nearly a year after they began work on the
algorithms, Arturia was ready for feedback. At the 2002 NAMM show in
California, Arturia shared an early version of what would later be the Moog
Modular V with the renowned maker of the original Moog synthesizer, Doctor Bob
Moog.
In seeking insight from sound production experts, such as Dr. Moog, as well as
avid synthesizer users, Arturia was able to ensure the quality of the instruments
they made; so well in fact the Dr. Moog himself endorsed the Moog Modular V.
The launch of this sound powerhouse was an instant success, winning awards
from several top magazines, and leading to the development of other synth
recreations.
Shortly thereafter, Arturia started receiving many requests from musicians,
producers and bands. Many of them explained how they were planning to replace
their original hardware synthesizers by virtual instruments. Artists around the
globe were beginning to see the advantages of a software alternative to
hardware-based synthesizers.
The CS-80V emulated the legendary Yamaha CS-80, considered by many as "the
ultimate polyphonic" synthesizer, and was launched at the AES 2003 in New
York. Imagine some of your favorite music from diverse artists such as Keith
Emerson or Stevie Wonder, and you'll get an idea of what the CS-80V is capable
of.
The ARP 2600 V was launched at the NAMM 2005 in Anaheim. This is a faithful
reproduction of the ARP 2600 and is great for just about any sound one might
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have been made with the ARP.
At the Winter NAMM Show 2006, ARTURIA announced the release of its seventh
product: the Prophet V. This powerful hybrid gives you two instruments in one: it
combines the warmth of the legendary Prophet 5 programmable analog synth
with the unique Vector Synthesis textures of the digital Prophet VS.
And finally, at the summer 2007 NAMM Show, Arturia launched the Jupiter-8V. In

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something different. The Jupiter-8 V was capable of creating very versatile
sounds. You could easily make 'fat' RU µ&U\VWDO¶ VRXQGV ZLWK LW ,Q IDFW WKH
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The electro-pop community became quickly convinced by the qualities of the
original Jupiter-8. 'Relax', by Frankie Goes to Hollywood was produced
incorporating a Jupiter 8, and players such Vince Clarke, John Foxx, and Martyn
Ware also used it abundantly. The path to classic status of the Jupiter started
there.
Other artists that have used The Jupiter-8 include: Howard Jones, Tangerine
Dream, Underworld, Jean Michel Jarre, Depeche Mode, Prince, Gary Wright,
Adrian Lee, Heaven 17, Kitaro, Elvis Costello, Tears for Fears, Huey Lewis and
the News, Journey, Moog Cookbook, Yes, Devo, Freddy Fresh, Simple Minds, Jan
Hammer and BT.

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

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3. INSTALLATION

3.1. Windows Installation (7/XP/VISTA)

x Place the Windows®-specific installation DVD in your computer's

DVD-ROM drive.

x Use Windows® Explorer to browse the content of the DVD-ROM.

x Double-click the installer file named SPARK Setup.exe.

x Click Next.

x To continue, you need to first accept the license agreement. After

you have read the license agreement, check the corresponding
checkbox and click Next.

x To perform a complete installation, leave the Complete option

checked and click Next. To deselect components or to install the
SPARK application and sound library to an alternative location,
select Custom. Then click Next. In the next dialog, choose the
destination folders for the installation. To use the default path, just
click Next. If you wish to select a custom path for a SPARK
component, click Change, browse to the folder where you want to
install the application or sound library. Then click Next. If you select
VST (and/or VST 64 bits) you will have to select your VST (and/or
VST 64 bits) folder.

x The Setup Program will lead you through the installation procedure.

Follow the onscreen instructions.

x After the installation has been performed successfully, click Finish.

x Now to install the SPARK Controller hardware driver, you need to

connect the SPARK Controller to your computer. On Windows®
Vista, the driver setup will finish automatically. On Windows® XP,
the following screen should appear:

SCREENSHOT MISSING

x Select No, not this time and click Next. In case of a warning

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proceed.

x On the following screen select Install software automatically and

click Next.

x Now the SPARK Controller hardware driver installation will finish.

Subsequently go through the same procedure in order to install the
SPARK Controller USB driver.

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

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3.2. Mac OSX Installation (10.5/10.6)

x Place the installation DVD-520LQ\RXUFRPSXWHU¶V'9'-ROM drive.

Its icon will appear in the Mac OS® X Finder.

x Connect the SPARK Controller using the USB cable. If you want to

connect the Controller to a USB-hub instead, make sure the hub
has its own power supply. SPARK's Controller will not work on a
passive (bus-powered) USB hub.

x Double-click the SPARK DVD icon to display the content of the DVD.

x Double-click the installer file named SPARK.

x Click Continue to proceed.

x To continue, you need to first accept the license agreement. After

you have read the license agreement, press Continue and click
Agree.

x Select the hard disk onto which you would like to install SPARK.

Please note that you can only install SPARK onto hard disks which
contain a Mac OS® X version matching the system requirements.
Hard disks with no sufficient Mac OS® X version will be flagged
with a red Stop sign and you will not be able to select them for
Installation Destination dialog. From Mac OS® X 10.5 on, this
screen will be skipped automatically.

x Click Continue.

x Select the elements you want to install (we recommend installing

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element like a plug-in format, uncheck the checkbox next to it).

x If you want to install the SPARK Library contents to a custom

location, e.g. to an external hard disk, click the folder icon in the
Location column to open a dialog in which you can specify a
destination for the installation.

x Click Install to continue. The Setup Program will lead you through

the installation procedure. Follow the onscreen instructions.

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

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4. Registration & Authorization

4.1. Registration

Now that your SPARK Software has been installed, the first step is to register
your software in order to obtain the activation code that will enable you to
actually use the software.

You should have handy the license serial number of SPARK Software and the
unlock code (these are integral part of the software and are printed on a small
plastic card).

Connect your computer to the Internet, and go to this web page:

http://www.arturia.com/login

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This will take you to this form:

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

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If you already have an account, simply log in:

Once you are logged into your account, you can register your Analog Player 2.5
and request your activation code.

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³$GG´EXWWRQ

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and key in your software serial number and unlock code (as written on the
registration card):

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

12

You should then see the confirmation screen:

4.2. Authorization

Finally there is a screen to copy the activation code. The very same information
is sent to you by email as a backup.
Now launch Analog Player 2.5 to display the authorization window:
Copy the activation code and paste it in the window that shows when you
launch SPARK:

THIS SCREENSHOT IS WRONG ± PLEASE SEND FINAL VERSION

If your activation code has been entered correctly, the software will launch.

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

13

5. QUICK START

5.1. SPARK Controller overview

INSERT UPDATED SCREENSHOT ± PLEASE SEND

Connect the SPARK Controller using the USB cable. If you want to connect the
Controller to a USB-hub instead, make sure the hub has its own power supply.
SPARK's Controller will not work on a passive (bus-powered) USB hub.

1. Digital Display

2. Sequencer zone

3. Song/Pattern zone

4. Jog dial

5. FX live Pad

6. Instruments control zone

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

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5.2. SPARK software overview

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name, you can return to this chapter at any time for a refresher!
Spark's user interface is divided in three main panels called: "TOP",
"CENTER" and "BOTTOM".

5.2.1. The Center panel

When launching SPARK, the CENTER PANEL will appear by default.

1. Digital Display

2. Sequencer zone

3. Song/Pattern zone

4. Jog dial

5. FX live Pad

6. Instruments control zone

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

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5.2.2. The Bottom panel

The Bottom panel features the Studio, the Mixer and the Library.

1. Studio Button

2. Display Instruments 1 to 8

3. Display Instruments 9 to 16

4. Display all Instruments

5. Mixer button

6. Library button

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

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5.2.3. The Top panel

The Top panel features the Pattern, the Song and the Library interface.

1. Pattern button

2. Song button

3. Preferences

ARTURIA ± SPARK CREATIVE DRUM MACHINE ± USER MANUAL

17

5.3. Names and concepts you should know

This chapter will introduce you to SPARK's terminology and explain how they
relate to one another.

5.3.1. Project

A Project contains all data needed for a Song: A 16 instruments kit and
up to 64 Patterns with their settings, automation and FX.

5.3.2. Kit

Each kit is made up of 16 instruments (i.e. Bass drum, Hi-hat, etc.)
You will find all the instrument Kits in the Library, under the project
window. (Bottom panel.)

5.3.3. Instrument

An instrument is a sound generated from an audio source assigned to
a track pad. For example, you can assign the instrument Bass Drum to
track 1 which you will hear when hitting the bottom left pad in the
main panel.

5.3.4. Audio Source

Sample (.wav, .aiff audio files)
Physical (Physical parameters)
Analog (Vintage drum machines analog parameters)

5.3.5. Bank

SPARK features 4 banks of 16 MIDI pattern each.
They are called A-B-C-D. If you go to the main panel, and click on "A"
and then "1" in the Song/Pattern zone, and then click on the
play/pause button, you will hear the pattern number 1 in Bank A.

5.3.6. Pattern

A Pattern is a sequence of notes played by instruments.

5.3.7. Song

A Song is an editable ordered sequence of several patterns which
defines your song structure.
SPARK allows songs made of 64 patterns maximum.

5.3.8. Channel

A specific channel is assigned to each instrument in the Mixer.
The channels are numbered from 1 to 16 in the same way the
instruments are.

5.3.9. Track

The pattern window in the Top Panel shows you the 16 instrument
tracks. Each track is the score played by one instrument.

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5.4. Audio and MIDI setup

Windows

To access the preferences window click on the SPARK menu > Setup >
Audio & MIDI Settings. This window allows you to configure the global
preferences of SPARK. These are saved automatically.

Mac OS X

To access the preferences window click on the SPARK menu>Preferences.
The Audio settings window will appear. This window features the
global preferences of SPARK. These are saved automatically.

For further details on how to setup Audio and MIDI, please refer to
chapter

: 7. MODES OF OPERATIONS of this manual.

5.5. First steps with SPARK1

5.5.1. Loading a project

To load a project, go to the tool bar and click on LOAD.

Move your cursor over "Factory Project" and click on a project in the

drop-down list, for example "FUNK".

This project is now loaded into SPARK and his name appears in the

window next to the button "SAVE".

1

When reading "Click" for the software version of SPARK, replace by "Press" for the

Hardware version or refer to chapter 7 of this manual: THE SPARK MIDI CONTROLLER.

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5.5.2. Select and play a pattern

To select and play a pattern, move your cursor to the "Song/Pattern"
zone and choose a Bank of patterns, for example the BANK A (click on
"A") and a pattern in BANK A, for example pattern #1 (Click on "1"). You
will notice that your selection is now highlighted.

Now, go to the transport zone and click on the "Play/Pause" button to
listen to Pattern #1 in Bank A. To listen to a different pattern just click
on another pattern number. You do not necessarily need to stop
playing a pattern to listen to another. The same apply to switching
from Banks to Banks.

5.5.3. Change Instrument parameters

The three buttons above each instrument's pad are the instrument's
parameters. Let's try and change the pitch of the snare drum. While the
pattern is playing, place your cursor over the "Pitch" button", click on it
and while maintaining your click, move your cursor up and down slowly.
This will turn the "Pitch" button up and down. Listen how the pitch of the
Snare drum is changing. The Digital display window in the center of the
main panel shows the changes applied on the Pitch range.

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5.5.4. Select an instrument and Change filter and mixer
parameters

To select an instrument, for example the snare drum, move your

nd

cursor to the dividing line above the 2

pad from the left called "Snare
Drum". The dividing line will be highlighted to let you know that you
entered its selection zone.
Click once. The "Snare drum" pad is now lit as well as the red diode. The
instrument "Snare Drum" is now selected. Alternatively, press the
Select Button and an instrument pad to select it.
Click again the Select Button to exit from Select mode.

To change the filter and/or the mixer parameters, first select an
instrument and simply click on one of the filter or mixer parameters
buttons and while maintaining your click, move your mouse up or
down to change the parameter. The Digital display window in the
center of the main panel shows you in real time the changes applied to
the selected parameter.

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5.5.5. Play and edit pattern

To play a pattern use the Play/Pause button located in the upper left
corner of the CENTER PANEL interface.

To edit a pattern, you will use the 16 small pads located at the top of the
main panel. You will notice that when you play a pattern, the current
playing position is shown with a lit pad in real time. When a pad lights up,
it means that the sequencer will play a MIDI note-on (a beat) at this
pattern's position, if a pad does not light up; it means that no note will be
played, KHQFH GRHVQ¶W SOD\ DQ\ VRXQG <RX FDQ E\ SUHVVLQJ WKH SDGV
trigger a note-on or remove it.

To better understand, click on Bank A / pattern #1 and then select the
snare drum track:

Look at the 16 small pads at the top of the main panel: some pads are lit,
others are not. The one being lit are the note-on, those unlit are not
triggering note-on.

Every lit pad is a Snare drum's beat. You can edit this track by pressing a
pad to add or remove a note-on. Try it! While the pattern plays, click on
pads 2, 3, 4 and 5. They are now unlit, hence you do not hear any snare
drum beats any more. Now click on pads 1 and 4: you are starting to
compose your own pattern.

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5.5.6. Record a pattern with instruments pads

To do so, we will start by erasing the current pattern and start from
scratch. First, click on the "ERASE" BUTTON, right above the digital display
window and then go to the Song/Pattern zone and click on the currently
selected pattern ± it should be Pattern #1 of BANK A:

The pattern #1 of Bank A is now erased. The 16 editing pads are not lit
anymore (since the snare drum track is now empty as well as all the other
instrument tracks). Click on Pattern #1. We are now ready to record a new
pattern #1 with the instruments pads.

To use the Metronome, click on the Metronome Button, set its volume and
proceed with recording your pattern. Clicking on the Metronome button
again will switch the metronome off.

Click on the pad called Bass Drum at the bottom left side of the Center
panel. You are now playing bass drum. To record a Bass drum, click first
on the record button and then on the play button, the recording has now
started.

Play your Bass drum part on the Bass Drum pad and then click stop. By
clicking "Play", you will now listen to the track you just recorded. To record
another instrument, select another instrument track (If you forgot how to
do this, go back to 5.5.4. Select an instrument) and repeat the same steps
to start recording.

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5.5.7. Change Instruments/Kits with jog dial

To change an instrument with the Jog Dial, you need to first select the
instrument you want to change. Now, go to the Song/Pattern zone. Click
above the Jog Dial where it says: "Instrument". Click on the Jog Dial and
while maintaining your click, move your mouse up or down to select a new
instrument. The name of the instrument will be displayed in the Digital
display window in the center of the main panel. Once your choice is made,
click on the Jog Dial to load the new instrument.

The procedure to change a Kit is the same, except that you do not need to
select an instrument as you will load all of them; just click below the Jog
Dial where it says: "Kit", and follow the same procedure as for the
instrument.

5.5.8. Save your project

To save your project, go to the toolbar and click "Save". A drop down
menu will appear. Chose ³6DYHDV«´

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Give a name to your project and choose a style from the drop down menu.
Click "OK". Your first project is now saved. Congratulations!

The name you gave to your project is now showing in the display window
next to the button save.

5.5.9. Switching views

SPARK's interface is made up of 3 main panels. The "TOP" panel, the
"CENTER" panel, and the "BOTTOM" panel. Up until now, you have been
introduced to the main or "CENTER" panel.

You are now ready to discover everything SPARK has to offer.

To show the "TOP" panel, go to the toolbar and click on "TOP".

To show the "BOTTOM" panel, click on "BOTTOM"

All 3 panels are now showing, you can scroll up and down to go from one
panel to another.

*******

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6. USING SPARK

6.1. The Toolbar

1. Load button

2. Save button

3. New Project window

4. Connect Hardware

5. Set Metronome volume button

6. Set Metronome on

7. Open or center "TOP" panel in the main window

8. Open or center "CENTER" panel in the main
window

9. Open or center "BOTTOM" panel in the main
window

10. CPU Meter

11. Main volume meter

12. Clipping indicator

13. Set Soft clip on/off

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6.2. The Main Panel (Overview)2

1. Play instruments with Pads (Right click: Edit instrument)

2. Instrument parameter knobs
(Right click: edit motion/disable motion)

3. Instrument Select Button (Click on select, then on instrument.)

4 Instruments page Button (Instrument 1-8 and 9-16)

5. Mute Button (Click on mute, then on instrument.)

6. Solo Button (Click on solo, then on instrument.)

7. FX ± Aux 1 and 2 ± Pan and volume Buttons
(Right click: edit motion/disable motion)

8. Click zone to select instrument track

2

When reading "Click" for the software version of SPARK, replace by "Press" for the

Hardware version or refer to chapter 8 of this manual: THE SPARK MIDI CONTROLLER.

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9. FX display window

10. Filter Button (Right click: Always on/only on touch)

11. Slicer Button (Right click: Always on/only on touch)

12. Roller Button (Right click: Always on/only on touch)

14. Jog Dial (Right click: Instrument mode/Kit mode)

15. Bank select Buttons (A-B-C-D)

16. Pattern select Buttons (1 to 16)

17. Kit select Button

18. Instrument select button

19 Song select Button

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20. Record button (Click right to select quantized/unquantized
recording)

21. Stop Button

22. Play/Pause Button

23. Tap Button (Tap tempo)

24. Tempo knob (Change Tempo)

25. Display previous/next 16 pattern steps

26. Set accent mode Button (On patterns or steps)

27. Erase/Cancel Erase Button
(Erase Instrument/Pattern or Automation)

28. Divide loop size knob

29. Loop On/Off Button

30. Move loop locator knob
(Right click: Shift by one step/Shift by one loop size)

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31. Sequencer Steps ON/OFF pads

32. Shuffle knob
(Right click: Swing range / velocity mode)

33. Master volume knob

29

6.2.1. The Digital display

The digital display is of an invaluable help. It displays all the
information needed while using SPARK. (i.e. Project name, precise
amount of effects applied when using Volume knob, FX knobs, etc.)

6.2.2. The Sequencer zone

The Sequencer zone is divided in 3 main zones:

x The Step Pads

16 Steps pads numbered from 1 to 16.

These pads allow you to edit your pattern by triggering note-on on
your instrument track. Patterns have a maximum number of 64
steps. If your pattern has more than 16 steps, use the << or >>
buttons to navigate to the previous or next page. If you click on the
>> next page button, you will see the numbering on the pads
switch from 1-16 to 17-32 for the second page, and so on.

The step resolution is a sixteenth of a note by default. You can
change the resolution in the pattern panel.

(See Chapter: 6.4.2. The Pattern Panel)

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