FXpansion DCAM Synth Squad Operation Manual - Manual (Page 82)

8
8:9 Animator: global controls
Animator is Fusor’s built-in step-sequencer and arpeggiator. Many classic analogue synths feature a performance
sequencer or arpeggiator, while many synthesists employ dedicated analogue step-sequencers to trigger a variety of
synths and modulars through CV connections.
Step-sequencers and arpeggiators remain extremely popular to this day. Many would suggest that they have been crucial
to the existence and development of many modern forms of electronic and dance music. Their imprint can be heard in the
early experiments of pioneers like Raymond Scott and the futuristic space-jazz of Herbie Hancock’s ‘Sextant’ album, and
more recently in 303-inspired acid and all flavours of modern techno, house and related genres.
Architecture overview
Animator has 4 engines, each essentially being an independent step-sequencer/arpeggiator in its own right. Each engine
features patterns which contain step events arranged on a number of Graph lanes.
Using the engine preset picker
Preset pickers
Preset pickers are provided for the following areas of Animator:
Global The entire state of Animator (all 4 engines)
Engine The current engine
Pattern The current pattern
Swing The current pattern’s swing template
Note that this picker does not feature a Save As...
function or a preset browser.
The preset pickers feature the usual preset picker controls. Use the Prev/Next buttons,
preset browser (click the Browse... button) or preset menu (click on the preset name)
to load presets for each area of Animator.
Save presets with the
Save button, or use the Tools menu to Cut, Copy and Paste
presets (especially useful for engines and patterns).
Engine selector
Animator’s 4 engines can be selected using the engine selector buttons.