Aansluitingen:
The 1010music Blackbox is a unique combination of the functionality of both a phrase sampler and a sampling drum machine. It can record samples live in 24-bit/48kHz quality or stream .wav files straight from a microSD card, but one of the defining features of the Blackbox is the way samples can be classified for different use cases: As required, they can tempo-synced, triggered normally, or played chromatically. Sets of samples are arranged on virtual pads in a 4x4 grid, and reverb and delay effects can be assigned to each pad individually; performers can the play the device's touchscreen to trigger the samples manually, as well as program the built-in sequencer. Despite its compact size, the 1010music Blackbox offers comprehensive compatibility with almost any setup, with three stereo outputs, one stereo input, a headphone out, MIDI I/O, and clock I/O (all in 3.5mm format), plus two USB ports.
Samples – whether recorded in situ or imported from a library – can be defined within the Blackbox's intuitive architecture in a number of ways: As a 'Sample', for one-shots with or without loop points; as a 'Clip', for tempo-synced drum loops and instrumental phrases; or as a 'Slicer' for chopped-up rhythmic patterns and beats. One-shot samples are ideal for drum hits and percussion in general, but they can also be played chromatically, which makes them great for synth tones and other instrumental sounds. Loops can be matched to the sequencer's tempo, but also pitch-shifted, while still keeping everything in sync. The slicer option is especially handy for chopping up drum loops so that individual segments can be triggered on their own. Samples – played chromatically or sliced – can be activated right on the touchscreen or using any external MIDI-compatible keyboard.
Extremely compact yet extraordinarily powerful, the 1010music Blackbox is ideal for setups where space is at a premium. Whether it's used as an instrument for playing samples as part of a live performances, as a more flexible, portable groovebox, or as entire production centre in miniature for sketching out beat ideas: It just works. And it doesn't even need to be hooked up to a computer – all the most important functions for editing samples can be accessed directly on the device. The versatility of its playback options also add value to this compact marvel, both for musicians who build live tracks from loops or for beatmakers who create entire grooves from individual audio elements. Working with the Blackbox feels a lot like using a classic sampling drum machine, where beats are layered into tracks from a pool of single samples – and yet modifying sample slices and integrating loops or audio clips is equally straightforward.
1010music was founded in Los Angeles in 2016 and focuses on digital solutions for musical applications. Prior to creating their own products, the developers at 1010music had all worked for renowned companies on large software projects such as Native Instrument's Traktor DJ. 1010music's creative modules – designed for Eurorack modular systems such as samplers, loopers, sequencers, synthesizers and effects – combine digital technology with analogue control and are all operated via multifunctional touch displays.
Recording new samples with the 1010music Blackbox isn't just straightforward – the device also has a whole host of playing aids like a metronome, selectable quantisation, and adjustable loop lengths. Even while the sequencer is already running, a new sample can be recorded and – as a live looper would – the Blackbox automatically matches the new beat's length to that of the sequencer. It's noteworthy that the sequencer in particular has clearly been designed for a fast workflow, with a distinct focus on programming notes and hits in the typical timing divisions. For more expressive playing beyond the touchscreen – like laying down basslines, chords, or melodies – a MIDI keyboard would be a great addition. Once these elements are also part of the Blackbox's sample bank, full sequences can be intuitively triggered while playing live using the touchscreen pads, making it easy to build a unique new track on the fly.