Playing hardware synths through software effects?

[drummy]

Hey guys. I am getting some hardware synths. I use FL Studio 7XXL to sequence. Is there a way I can play my synths through my computer and use my VST effects (such as delay and reverb) in real time so that that it's like having hardware effects? Is there anything that can let me do this, if FL cannot do it? Thanks for any help.

[Martin P268]

Theoretically, it's possible. The problem is that there will be delay of the output that depends on you configuration. For this reason I recommend using hardware effects (may be DSP too), the point is to avoid monitoring through VST engine.

[DX]

Hi there.
I am not used to that software but I guess it can be done.

I do that in Pro Tools this way:
I just create a new track.
Then I insert the effect I want.
Press track Record Button.
In my Mbox, I turn the record-Playback balance full to playback.
In PT settings, I set H/W Buffer Size to the minimun value without CPU crashing.
And voila. I get reverb, delay, or what I want.

Best.,
DX.

[drummy]

Thanks for the replies guys. I'll see what I can do.

[wilsontherocker]

Yes, this can definitely be done! Just as long as you have a decent audio interface for your computer. Read your FLStudio manual about how to send external audio to an audio track, send your synth to that track, put any vst effect you want as an 'insert' on that, and there you have it.

The key is Reading Your Manual.

I wouldn't worry too much about any delays. As long as you have a decent audio interface and you're not using tons of effect, you'll be able to set your audio buffer low enough so that you're likely not to notice any small delay. Also, make sure the reverbs you're using don't have any latency themselves (most convolution reverbs do, and you can often find this information in the plugin's help file or readme), or you'll be much more likely to experience delays.

And even though you are talking about effecting a hardware synth, this is more of a software question, and thus, should go in the forum for software discussion.

[drummy]

Yes, this can definitely be done! Just as long as you have a decent audio interface for your computer. Read your FLStudio manual about how to send external audio to an audio track, send your synth to that track, put any vst effect you want as an 'insert' on that, and there you have it.

The key is Reading Your Manual.

I wouldn't worry too much about any delays. As long as you have a decent audio interface and you're not using tons of effect, you'll be able to set your audio buffer low enough so that you're likely not to notice any small delay. Also, make sure the reverbs you're using don't have any latency themselves (most convolution reverbs do, and you can often find this information in the plugin's help file or readme), or you'll be much more likely to experience delays.

And even though you are talking about effecting a hardware synth, this is more of a software question, and thus, should go in the forum for software discussion.

Alright, well, thanks.

[JSRockit]

I do it in Logic and it works fine...

[drummy]

I do it in Logic and it works fine...

Unfortunately, I lack-a-Mac.

[JSRockit]

I do it in Logic and it works fine...

Unfortunately, I lack-a-Mac.

That doesn't matter...the point was that you can do it.

[drummy]

I do it in Logic and it works fine...

Unfortunately, I lack-a-Mac.

That doesn't matter...the point was that you can do it.

haha, thanks. Anyone have a recommendation on a good audio interface that will allow me to do this? I can also do this in Ableton, right?

[JSRockit]

Anyone have a recommendation on a good audio interface that will allow me to do this? I can also do this in Ableton, right?

Most audio interfaces will let you do this... how much do you want to spend? The MOTU Ultralite is a very nice unit that isn't too expensive... if that works with PCs. Live should work that way fine.

[drummy]

Anyone have a recommendation on a good audio interface that will allow me to do this? I can also do this in Ableton, right?

Most audio interfaces will let you do this... how much do you want to spend? The MOTU Ultralite is a very nice unit that isn't too expensive... if that works with PCs. Live should work that way fine.

Alright, thanks.

[Robonaut]

The MOTU Ultralite is a very nice unit that isn't too expensive... if that works with PCs. Live should work that way fine.

Here's another vote for the Ultralite. I use two of them on my PC--great units for the money.

[uncle silas]

If you're not ready to sink cash into a new soundcard and your current card doesn't allow you to modify the buffer (aka latency) then get a copy of ASIO4All and see if you can push your card.

I used to use a crappy soundblaster and the only way I could get a signal through without latency was to use that ASIO driver.

Good luck!

[drummy]

If you're not ready to sink cash into a new soundcard and your current card doesn't allow you to modify the buffer (aka latency) then get a copy of ASIO4All and see if you can push your card.

I used to use a crappy soundblaster and the only way I could get a signal through without latency was to use that ASIO driver.

Good luck!

Apparently, the Ultralite only works on Firewire chipsets from Texas Instruments which I'm pretty sure my Dell Inspiron E1505 does not have. Also, ASIO4ALL does not work with the Dell's internal soundcard. Any other suggestions for an audio interface? I think you can adjust the buffer on the Presonus Inspire though, not sure.