This tutorial looks at setting tempo anchors with M-Audio Torq 1.5 DJ Software.

via eangolden:

Full article at: DJTechTools.com. Tempo Anchors in Torq 1.5 help you sync up songs that have a fluctuating tempo or that have a complex beat the automatic tempo anaysis can’t read.

• Zune Owners Everywhere Cursing That They Cheaped Out
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• M-Audio Tweaks Torq DJ Software
  Posted on Monday, December 29th, 2008 in DJ – Comments: (2)
  M-Audio has released Torq 1.5 DJ software for Mac OS X and Windows.
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  I’ve been easy on Synthtopia readers lately, carefully avoiding posting videos that could scorch your eyeballs, give you nightmares and even warp your unborn progeny. This video, Thriller in the Nude, merits your attention, though, as it may be the strangest music video of 2008. 

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M-Audio has released Torq 1.5 DJ software for Mac OS X and Windows.

New features in Torq 1.5 software include:

• Tempo Anchors
• Tempo Master
• zplane élastique time stretching
• Send/receive MIDI Clock
• A new toolbar and a variety of workflow enhancements

Torq 1.5 DJ software is available immediately from the M-Audio webstore. The cost of upgrading from any previous version of Torq is USD$49.95. Customers who purchased and registered their Torq Conectiv or Xponent hardware after January 17th, 2008 are eligible for a no-charge upgrade to Torq 1.5 software.

Here are the details on the update:

The software’s new Tempo Anchors allow users to set the phase grid exactly on the beats of the song, even if the song changes tempo. Tempo Anchors make it possible for Torq to remove tempo variations from songs so you can easily blend old styles and new. For example, if you have an old ‘70s funk song that was recorded without a click, Tempo Anchors enable you to perfectly match that song with the steady beat of today’s computer-driven productions. You can also assign a track you’re spinning to serve as the Tempo Master for everything in Torq, so looped samples and other tempo-based features will automatically match the natural tempo changes in the song. These new features are enhanced by the addition of zplane élastique time-compression/expansion technology, a powerful new algorithm designed for stretching full music tracks without rhythmic anomalies.

Torq 1.5 software allows performers to incorporate outboard MIDI hardware into their audio production setups. Torq 1.5 software can send and receive MIDI Clock for total synchronization with drum machines, effects boxes and other computers. Multiple DJs can connect with each other and share the same tempo across systems, which improves collaboration between artists.

“The initial release of Torq changed the definition of DJ software by combining studio production tools with a robust DJ performance solution, blurring the line between DJs and producers,” said Adam Castillo, marketing director at M-Audio. “Torq 1.5 goes even further by delivering a host of innovative new features. With a compatible hardware interface like Conectiv or Xponent, Torq 1.5 DJ software becomes a powerful performance rig that enables DJs and producers to explore new creative directions.”

M-Audio has updated Torq DJ software to v1.0.7 for Windows XP SP2, Vista (32-bit) and Mac OS X, including support for Mac OS X Leopard.

This latest update delivers several enhancements such as improved database searching, better browser performance and new dialog boxes for quick access to important information.

Changes:

• Windows Support for both XP Service Pack 2 and Vista (32bit)
• Mac (Leopard) OSX 10.5.3 and 10.5.4 support added.
• General increases in performance and application stability under load and over time.
• Improvements made to Database searching and browser handling.
• New Dialog Boxes added to indicate when Adding Files to the Database.
• Added support of Y/Enter keys and N/Esc keys will answer all Yes / No option dialogs.
• Effects gain preferences are now customizable.
• Each effect now has an individual makeup gain setting in the TorqEngine.prefs file. A few effects, such as Flanger, Phaser, and Band-Pass filter, have louder default levels in this version. If you prefer to keep the original volumes, set all levels to 1.0 in the prefs file. Each effect should be loaded in Torq, before the setting will appear in the preference file.
• Tempo sensitive effect parameters now respond under External Control.
• Tempo-sensitive effects now follow the tempo of songs under external control. Note: In order to full realize this improvement with the Repeater Effect, you must keep the song’s tempo constant for the first 2 bars after engaging the Repeater, after which the effect will follow any tempo changes you make via external control (i.e. Vinyl or CD timecode).
• Run-out Protection on CD Timecode accuracy improved.
• PTMP and Torq ReWire implementation improved.

At the 2008 Winter NAMM Show, M-Audio announced Torq 1.5 DJ software.

New features in Torq 1.5 software include:

• Tempo Anchors
• Tempo Master
• zplane élastique time stretching
• send/receive MIDI clock
• a new toolbar and a variety of workflow enhancements

The software’s new Tempo Anchors allow users to set the phase grid exactly on the beats of the song, even if the song changes tempo. The new Tempo Master function assigns a playing track to serve as the master BPM for everything in Torq, so looped samples, VST effects and other tempo-based features will follow in perfect sync. These new features are enhanced by the addition of zPlane Elastique time-compression/expansion technology, a powerful new algorithm designed for stretching full music tracks without rhythmic anomalies.

Torq 1.5 software allows performers to incorporate outboard MIDI hardware into their audio production setups. Torq 1.5 software can send and receive MIDI beat clock for total synchronization with drum machines, effects boxes and other computers. Multiple DJs can connect with each other and share the same tempo across systems, which improves collaboration between artists.

The initial release of Torq software revolutionized digital DJ performance and production by introducing a broad assortment of cutting-edge effects. Torq 1.5 goes even further by adding new features that improve effects processing and inspire creativity. The built-in effects can now be formed into Effects Chains, facilitating greater innovation than ever before. Torq 1.5 also supports VST Tempo so external effects can be automatically synchronized to the playing track.

In addition, Torq 1.5 incorporates several refinements to the user interface. The Hide Mixer option conserves screen space by removing the mixer from the user interface and expanding the file browser window. The Browser Preview function allows DJs to preview songs in their headphones before loading them into a deck. Torq 1.5 also displays a warning message when exiting the program or loading a song onto a deck that is already playing in order to prevent accidental set interruption during a live performance.

“The initial release of Torq changed the definition of DJ software by combining studio production tools with a robust DJ performance solution, blurring the line between DJs and producers,” said Adam Castillo, marketing director at M-Audio. “Torq 1.5 goes even further by delivering a host of innovative new features. With a compatible hardware interface like Conectiv or Xponent, Torq 1.5 DJ software becomes a powerful performance rig that enables DJs and producers to explore new creative directions.”

Torq 1.5 Key Features:

• Tempo Anchors allow marking tracks with varying tempos—Torq’s effects and samples follow the tempo changes in the song
• Tempo Master assigns a playing track to serve as the master tempo source for all tempo-related functions
• zPlane Elastique time-stretching/compression technology for sophisticated beat matching and pitch alteration
• Transmit/receive MIDI beat clock for sync with other hardware/software and easy switching between DJs
• Hide Mixer option conserves screen space
• Preview songs in headphones before loading to deck
• New Toolbar buttons and MIDI/tempo indicators
• Skip Protection keeps the music playing even if the Control Vinyl or CD skips
• True Key Lock keeps the pitch constant when adjusting external turntable speed
• Internal effects can be grouped into Effects Chains
• VST effects synchronize with tempo of playing deck
• Auto Gain feature matches the gain levels between decks
• Additional workflow and interface refinements enhance user experience

Pricing and Availability

Torq 1.5 DJ software is currently expected to be available for Windows XP, Windows Vista and Mac OS X-based systems in the first quarter of 2008. The cost of upgrading from any previous version of Torq is USD$50.

M-Audio has announced that its shipping the Torq Xponent integrated hardware/software DJ performance and production system. The Torq Xponent system brings traditional CD DJ-style control and mixing to the world of computer-based DJing.

Torq Xponent is a hardware/software system. Xponent is both an advanced MIDI control surface for Torq DJ software and a four-output USB audio interface—including two stereo RCA outputs and a standard 1/4″ headphone output with cueing.

Torq Xponent is shipping and carries an MSRP of $749.95. Torq is currently available only with M-Audio SynchroScience DJ products.

Torq Xponent Details

The Xponent’s array of tactile controls enables DJs to perform a variety of tasks from a single surface, eliminating the need to adjust most onscreen parameters with a touchpad or keyboard. The unit’s mixer section allows users to deliver a dynamic DJ performance with the same feel and response as a standard hardware mixer. For DJ CD player-style control, Xponent includes two touch-sensitive scratch wheels for scratching, speeding up and slowing down the playback of digital files.

For in-depth control over Torq, Xponent adds 64 assignable backlit buttons (including Play, Cue, Seek, Loop, Key and Sync controls), two volume sliders, eight assignable knobs for effect control and two 100mm pitch sliders. The built-in touchpad/assignable X/Y controller gives users command over the mouse or the effects in Torq, so they never need to take their hands off the unit in the middle of a performance. Level and progress LED meters round out all the pro features that DJs expect.

Torq DJ software for Mac and PC is designed to work with Xponent; every Xponent control is pre-mapped to its corresponding Torq function. All hardware controls are located exactly where DJs expect them to be, making Torq Xponent easy and intuitive from the first use. The transition into digital DJing could not be simpler.

Torq Xponent provides much more than a transparent combination of hardware and software—it allows users to take DJing and live performance in wild new directions. VST effect compatibility and easily assignable hardware controls make it easy to turn plug-ins into expressive live performance tools. DJs can call up a flanger effect and layer on beat-synced LFOs—or mix in feedback loops from a delay effect and control it all from the assignable knobs on Xponent. The system also provides everything needed to loop, reorder and remix tracks on the fly. With built-in controls for looping as well as a 16-cell, tempo-synced performance sampler, Torq makes it possible to grab loops and one-shot samples and drop them wherever they’re desired, all while staying in perfect sync with the mix.

Torq DJ software allows users to cue, beat-match and mix all the important digital audio file formats, including MP3, AIFF, WAV, WMA, Apple Lossless and AAC. For truly effortless set-up, Torq locates and catalogs all digital song files—including the user’s Apple iTunes library—into a quickly searchable database that resides on the computer’s hard drive. This enables DJs to pull up the perfect track or change up their set in an instant. In addition, Torq can interface with any ReWire-compatible host application. This makes it easy to route the output of Torq to a program like Pro Tools M-Powered or Ableton Live and explore even more performance, production and sound design possibilities. When ReWired to a host application, the tempo of Torq automatically locks to the current session tempo, so users never have worry about syncing playback between Torq and their preferred DAW. Xponent also lets users quickly gain control over any software application that supports MIDI learn functionality.

M-Audio has published a series of 31 free video tutorials designed to help users master every aspect of the company’s Torq DJ software.

The Torq Tutorial video series encompasses a diverse array of topics to support users of all levels. The first videos explain Torq Conectiv and Torq Xponent setup, the Torq Browser, Auto BPM mapping, QuickCue points, looping, built-in effects, MIDI mapping, VST FX, speed and key adjustment, and Snapshots.

Later videos explore the Sampler, synchronization, recording the Master Output, External Control, AMPutate mode, using the Line Input, Pitch/Key Lock with External Control, the Mixer, cueing assignment, microphone recording, and QWERTY keyboard functions.

“M-Audio is as committed to educating customers as we are to developing cutting-edge products,” says Adam Castillo, marketing director at M-Audio. “These videos will help new users to understand the capabilities of Torq before purchasing, and will help existing users to go even deeper with new tips and tricks.”

M-Audio has released the newest Torq software update, Torq 1.0.4. This is supported by Mac 10.4.9 and Windows XP SP2. This can be updated from the M-Audio Software Update Page.

Release Notes:

• Supports Xponent controller/interface
• Holding SHIFT and rotating an Xponent Scratch Wheel will offset the Phase Grid
• Redesigned MIDI architecture for improved response
• If a sample is looped, it will be looped when used with QuickScratch. If a sample is not looped, it will not be looped when used with QuickScratch
• Hide Phase Grid button will remove the Phase Grid from the Scrolling Waveforms
• New “Reset Speed Slider on New Track” preference for keeping the position of the Speed Slider the same when loading a new song
• The Sampler will use the phase information of the Master Tempo when recording from the Line-Input
• MIDI control can be assigned to the scrolling waveforms (for scratching with a device other than Xponent)
• Torq will remember the path when saving samples
• Fixed: Track will play without External Control if dropped onto a Deck while Runout Protection is active
• Fixed: Two additional Snapshots on top of a Key Change Snapshot will cause incorrect Key behavior
• Fixed: VST Effects unstable when Effect Rack is Bypassed
• Fixed: When a Deck is synced to the other Deck, the Reverse effect stutters and skips when activated
• Fixed: Schaffel mode not implemented for all effects
• Fixed: Snapshot recalls incorrect Repeat Size
• Fixed: Snapshots are affecting parameters outside their scope
• Fixed: Sync is not disabled when loading a track onto the opposite Deck
• Fixed: Playing back a sampled loop results in audio glitch
• Fixed: When activating a QuickScratch, the previous loop would superimpose itself on the sample
• New preference for resetting Speed Slider on new song

M-Audio has announce that its X-Session Pro MIDI controller now ships with Torq LE software, a streamlined version of the company’s popular Torq software for DJs.

Torq LE software includes many of the same features as the Torq application that is revolutionizing the world of digital DJing. Torq LE lets users mix digital audio files—including MP3, AIFF, WAV, WMA and AAC formats—that reside on their computer’s hard drive. It provides easy access to these files through a quickly searchable database that can even interface with the user’s Apple iTunes library. Torq LE can also play songs directly from iPod music players, as well as record to an audio file for podcasting or CD burning.

The configuration and features of the Torq LE software parallel both traditional DJ setups and the controls on the X-Session Pro hardware controller. This powerful yet easy-to-use application has two virtual decks for cueing and mixing, complete with independent control of speed and pitch. Automatic beat-detection and synchronization allow for effortless beat-matching.

Torq LE software also features an integrated two-channel mixer with three-band EQs, level controls and three audio effects for each channel—all of which automatically map to the controls on the X-Session Pro. Headphone cueing, a large scrolling waveform display and a crossfader round out a formidable package. Torq LE works instantly with the X-Session Pro controller, ensuring seamless setup.

“Our Torq software has transformed the landscape of digital DJing,” says Adam Castillo, marketing director at M-Audio. “Torq LE delivers many of the same features and integrates perfectly with the X-Session Pro. The X-Session Pro is already a popular controller choice for artists working with a variety of music software. Now, the inclusion of Torq LE makes it a great solution right out of the box.”

In addition to shipping with new X-Session Pro controllers from this time forward, existing registered owners of X-Session Pro are eligible for a free Torq LE download from www.M-Audio.com/TorqLE.

2007 Winter NAMM Show: M-Audio announced releasede the Torq Xponent integrated hardware/software DJ performance and production system.

The system brings traditional CD DJ-style control and mixing to the world of computer-based DJing, and looks like it will offer a nice combination of dj software and an good-looking dedicated control surface.

Here are the details….

The Xponent is both an advanced MIDI control surface for Torq DJ software and a four-output USB audio interface—including two stereo RCA outputs and a standard 1/4″ headphone output with cueing. The controls on Xponent are designed to provide the same rugged feel as traditional DJ hardware.

The Xponent’s array of tactile controls let DJs perform a variety of tasks from a single surface, eliminating the need to adjust most onscreen parameters with a touchpad or keyboard. For DJ CD player-style control, Xponent includes two touch-sensitive scratch wheels for scratching, speeding up and slowing down the playback of digital files. For in-depth control over Torq, Xponent adds 64 assignable backlit buttons (including Play, Cue, Seek, Loop, Key and Sync controls), two volume sliders, eight assignable knobs for effect control and two 100mm pitch sliders. The built-in touchpad/assignable X/Y controller gives you control over the mouse or the effects in Torq, so you don’t need to take your hands off the unit in the middle of a performance. Level and progress LED meters round out all the pro features that DJs expect.

Torq DJ software for Mac and PC is designed to work with Xponent; every Xponent control is pre-mapped to its corresponding Torq function. All hardware controls are located where DJs expect them to be, making Torq Xponent easy and intuitive from the first use.

Torq Xponent provides much more than a transparent combination of hardware and software—it allows users to take DJing and live performance in wild new directions. VST effect compatibility and easily assignable hardware controls make it easy to turn plug-ins into expressive live performance tools. DJs can call up a flanger effect and layer on beat-synced LFOs—or mix in feedback loops from a delay effect and control it all from the assignable knobs on Xponent. The system also provides everything needed to loop, reorder and remix tracks on the fly. With built-in controls for looping as well as a 16-cell, tempo-synced performance sampler, Torq makes it possible to grab loops and one-shot samples and drop them wherever they’re desired, all while staying in perfect sync with the mix.

Torq DJ software lets users cue, beat-match and mix all the important digital audio file formats, including MP3, AIFF, WAV, WMA, Apple Lossless and AAC. Torq locates and catalogs all digital song files—including the user’s Apple iTunes library—into a searchable database that resides on the computer’s hard drive. This lets you pull up any track you want or change your set in an instant.

In addition, Torq can interface with any ReWire-compatible host application. This makes it easy to route the output of Torq to a program like Pro Tools M-Powered or Ableton Live. When ReWired to a host application, the tempo of Torq automatically locks to the current session tempo. Xponent also lets you control any software application that supports MIDI learn functionality.

Torq Xponent is currently expected to ship in early 2007 and carries an MSRP of $749.99.