Databases:

long time ago I got into the habit of storing databases in a single folder each. The folder is named after its OS version. An H8000FW folder contains all folders with its OS versions databases….and so on for all other units (4000s/7000s/Orville/7600/H8000/etc….). Finally a DATABASES folder contains them all. This way I can use Vsig database window to locate any unit's dbase to work with. When a new OS is availabl, I get the new Db and store it accordingly.

Presets done with older Dbases are normally usable w/newer version. Back compatibility is always the key here. You should be fine with all those presets versions.

Patch design:

we sould spend a day talking about this!

I started working w/algorithms back in 1990, with the ModFactory on the H3000. up to that time I had used many different brands/units and the fact I could now create thing inside a machine was THE eyeopener for me, besides the Eventide sound which I still can't hear anywhere else. When the open architecture came out, a few years later, with the DSP4000…it was instant jump_on_it. That's where I could make my own things….and more happened along the time as DSP resources increased w/Orville and the H8000.

I have created several thousands algorithms. Many are in the units, others aren't. creating an algorithm for me, comes from different places:

-build something existing in a rack system in a single structure

-work for some famous artist in need to create some stuff that is not available (YET!) or needs to replicate well….

-create from nothingness…. beyond the "normal" rules of FX (try a plex w/delays + pitch shifters for verb!)..and experiment.

-replicate some classic unit! A lot of studio and audio tests on this.

-get in new audio working formats, like 5.1, broadcast, movies! 

Sometimes you have a clear idea, other times you don't and proceed in the dark.

Sometimes you start from something that is well defined but end up with something else which may be more interesting.

Sometimes you work on a very specific project and create several intermediate versions of the project..and each one takes a different path, developing away from the mother idea…up to newer effects that have nothing in common with the origin.

Vsig is a gold mine! Taking the time to sink in it will unwrap an enormous knowledge and creative potential. Knowing and having used many other processors is a great help. Being a musician is a MUST! Loving computers helps. Everything starts with the old days digital delay unit. THAT thing teaches how different fx can be made; this is something I always recommend to anybody willing to learn.

Besides books and experience,t he big learning bible remains the factory presets library. Analizing them and understanding how things can be made, even in different ways, is the key to it. 

You have everything in front of you, like the sun….but for many its light is just too bright!

;-))

 I