After a long hiatus I’ve been getting back to the SD-10 sampling project the past few weeks. The past two years have been crazy busy for my “day” job so I’ve been pouring all my energy into that. But now with the winter doldrums here and the prospect of a somewhat less frantic spring season on the horizon, I’m diving back into the sampling waters with the intention of getting the recording done this winter.
Sampling mechanism
The sampling mechanism consists of a DC linear motor which presses the key, holds it for the desired length, then releases. It’s on a sliding rail that keeps it perfectly positioned from key to key. The motor is fed a series of programmed voltage steps from the control room computer, and the entire series contains all the steps necessary for 21 velocity levels at three round robin iterations. So, it’s just a question of turning off the fish tank, and hoping the cats don’t create too much ruckus upstairs!
One of the primary requirements for the process is PATIENCE. The louder, lower register notes ring for a very long time, which can result in some samples being a bit shy of 60 seconds. You do the math! 21 velocity levels X number of required seconds per sample X the number of round robins recorded X 88 keys = lots and LOTS of hours.
Now, after fine tuning the actuator placement, programming the voltage series to accurately reflect the dynamic range I want, cutting bits of wood, screwing in various angle pieces, tying rubber bands, stretching bungees and securing cable ties, the whole contraption seems to be working really well.
