Minimal setup: MASCHINE, laptop and monitoring system.
FAQS, TUTORIALS AND SET UP EXAMPLES
MASCHINE TUTORIALS
To ensure your already-installed plug-ins are recognized by MASCHINE, watch this step-by-step video guide. It covers setting up plug-in locations, using 64 or 32 bit plug-ins, moving projects between computers and optimizing performance.
Watch the video...
Watch the video...
RESOURCES
Download Section: Get the user manuals.
MASCHINE Forum: Benefit from the expertise of other users or share your own.
Knowledge Base: Take advantage of numerous, regularly updated support articles.
Software updates and drivers: Check your personal update manager.
MASCHINE Forum: Benefit from the expertise of other users or share your own.
Knowledge Base: Take advantage of numerous, regularly updated support articles.
Software updates and drivers: Check your personal update manager.
SETUP EXAMPLES
MASCHINE as a studio centerpiece, sequencing external gear via MIDI and using external controllers.
MIDI signal flow when recording and playing back MIDI events directly in the DAW. Full integration of hardware and software while omitting the internal sequencer of MASCHINE.
MIDI sync with MASCHINE and TRAKTOR running on separate systems. MASCHINE's clock is synchronized to the tempo of TRAKTOR PRO.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1.
Q: Can MASCHINE record audio?
A: Yes, you can record all internal audio directly in real time (e.g. sample a programmed drum loop and slice / auto-map it to pads for further remixing), and you can also record and sample external audio from your sound card input.
A: Yes, you can record all internal audio directly in real time (e.g. sample a programmed drum loop and slice / auto-map it to pads for further remixing), and you can also record and sample external audio from your sound card input.
2.
Q: Can MASCHINE play chords and polyphonic material?
A: Yes, the MASCHINE sequencer supports full polyphonic tracks and arrangements. Each sound can be monophonic (with glide) or polyphonic. In the sequencer, every Sound can be expanded into a Piano Roll view and played chromatically via the hardware pads or with an optional keyboard connected to MASCHINE.
A: Yes, the MASCHINE sequencer supports full polyphonic tracks and arrangements. Each sound can be monophonic (with glide) or polyphonic. In the sequencer, every Sound can be expanded into a Piano Roll view and played chromatically via the hardware pads or with an optional keyboard connected to MASCHINE.
3.
Q: How many samples can MASCHINE load at once?
A: A MASCHINE Project has up to 128 sounds, split across 8 Groups, and each Group can contain up to 16 Sounds. There is no limit to the number of samples per instance, because each MASCHINE Sound has its own sample map, including key and velocity mapping. In traditional terms, this translates to 128 tracks per instance.
A: A MASCHINE Project has up to 128 sounds, split across 8 Groups, and each Group can contain up to 16 Sounds. There is no limit to the number of samples per instance, because each MASCHINE Sound has its own sample map, including key and velocity mapping. In traditional terms, this translates to 128 tracks per instance.
4.
Q: What is the maximum number of patterns in a MASCHINE project?
A: Each group can have up to 64 patterns, and each pattern can be of a different length. That means a total of 512 patterns per project. All patterns can be accessed in real-time from the hardware using the pads and bank selectors.
A: Each group can have up to 64 patterns, and each pattern can be of a different length. That means a total of 512 patterns per project. All patterns can be accessed in real-time from the hardware using the pads and bank selectors.
5.
Q: Can MASCHINE be used without a computer?
A: No, the MASCHINE application runs on the computer and the hardware is used to control its functions. The controller is not a self-contained instrument in itself.
A: No, the MASCHINE application runs on the computer and the hardware is used to control its functions. The controller is not a self-contained instrument in itself.
6.
Q: What happens if I use the 1.8 software but don't have the Mk2 hardware, what colors do the pads display?
A: Using the new 1.8 software with first generation MASCHINE hardware is no problem. The colors on the MASCHINE Mk1 hardware will be the same as with previous software versions.
A: Using the new 1.8 software with first generation MASCHINE hardware is no problem. The colors on the MASCHINE Mk1 hardware will be the same as with previous software versions.
7.
Q: Does MASCHINE offer time stretch and pitch shift capability?
A: Yes, you can stretch samples to a specific BPM. The BPM auto detection functionality makes it easy to change tempo without losing the beat and also provides the possibility to time stretch the sample to a specific length (e.g. 1 bar).
A: Yes, you can stretch samples to a specific BPM. The BPM auto detection functionality makes it easy to change tempo without losing the beat and also provides the possibility to time stretch the sample to a specific length (e.g. 1 bar).
8.
Q: Does the MASCHINE sequencer offer plug-in hosting?
A:Yes, from version 1.6, both VST and AU plug-ins are supported. The parameters of the plug-ins are detected automatically by MASCHINE, and with the 'real auto map' function, are directly mapped to the controller knobs.
A:Yes, from version 1.6, both VST and AU plug-ins are supported. The parameters of the plug-ins are detected automatically by MASCHINE, and with the 'real auto map' function, are directly mapped to the controller knobs.
9.
Q: How many audio outputs can I use with MASCHINE?
A: The MASCHINE software provides 16 stereo outputs. These can be routed within a host sequencer when using MASCHINE as a plug-in, or through your audio interface if it has a sufficient number of physical outputs. Every individual Sound and Group in MASCHINE has one “Main” bus and two “Aux” busses, allowing you to also make efficient use of eventual outboard equipment.
A: The MASCHINE software provides 16 stereo outputs. These can be routed within a host sequencer when using MASCHINE as a plug-in, or through your audio interface if it has a sufficient number of physical outputs. Every individual Sound and Group in MASCHINE has one “Main” bus and two “Aux” busses, allowing you to also make efficient use of eventual outboard equipment.
10.
Q: Can I control transport in my DAW with MASCHINE?
A: Yes, If MASCHINE is running as a VST, AU or RTAS plug-in in a DAW, the hardware transport controls can be used to control the host software while the rest of MASCHINE’s controls operate the MASCHINE software. Please open NI’s Controller Editor and make sure the dedicated checkbox in the application is checked.
A: Yes, If MASCHINE is running as a VST, AU or RTAS plug-in in a DAW, the hardware transport controls can be used to control the host software while the rest of MASCHINE’s controls operate the MASCHINE software. Please open NI’s Controller Editor and make sure the dedicated checkbox in the application is checked.
11.
Q: Can I use the MASCHINE sequencer to control other software or hardware instruments?
A: Yes, you can control external hardware as well as other virtual instruments with the MIDI Out feature.
A: Yes, you can control external hardware as well as other virtual instruments with the MIDI Out feature.
12.
Q: Which file formats can be imported into MASCHINE?
A: Currently, AIFF and WAV files can be imported, as well as REX files including their slicing information. Moreover, MASCHINE offers import for MPC* 500/1000/2000(XL)/2500/3000/4000 programs.
A: Currently, AIFF and WAV files can be imported, as well as REX files including their slicing information. Moreover, MASCHINE offers import for MPC* 500/1000/2000(XL)/2500/3000/4000 programs.
13.
Q: Which file formats can be exported by MASCHINE?
A: You can export WAV and AIFF files in 8, 16 and 24 bit depth.
A: You can export WAV and AIFF files in 8, 16 and 24 bit depth.
14.
Q: Can I use the MASCHINE hardware to control other MIDI-compatible equipment?
A: Yes, you can use the MASCHINE hardware as a universal MIDI controller via the USB connection. The included Controller Editor application allows you to easily configure the knobs and buttons to control software via MIDI and MCU protocols. Please note that in MIDI mode these MIDI messages can only be transmitted via the USB connection, not via the physical MIDI ports on the device.
A: Yes, you can use the MASCHINE hardware as a universal MIDI controller via the USB connection. The included Controller Editor application allows you to easily configure the knobs and buttons to control software via MIDI and MCU protocols. Please note that in MIDI mode these MIDI messages can only be transmitted via the USB connection, not via the physical MIDI ports on the device.
15.
Q: Does the MASCHINE controller include an audio interface?
A: No. As most users already own a sound card or want to make their own choice from the wide range of interfaces on the market, we decided not to integrate an audio interface and rather keep the price of MASCHINE as low as possible.
A: No. As most users already own a sound card or want to make their own choice from the wide range of interfaces on the market, we decided not to integrate an audio interface and rather keep the price of MASCHINE as low as possible.
16.
Q: Does MASCHINE replace BATTERY?
A: No. MASCHINE and BATTERY are different tools for different applications. BATTERY is a dedicated percussion sampler with extensive sound shaping and mapping functions for complex drum kits, and does not integrate sequencing. The sample engine in MASCHINE is much more streamlined and focuses on the integration with its sequencer and hardware controller, as well as on real-time audio recording and sound manipulation functions.
A: No. MASCHINE and BATTERY are different tools for different applications. BATTERY is a dedicated percussion sampler with extensive sound shaping and mapping functions for complex drum kits, and does not integrate sequencing. The sample engine in MASCHINE is much more streamlined and focuses on the integration with its sequencer and hardware controller, as well as on real-time audio recording and sound manipulation functions.
17.
Q: Will the MASCHINE software be available for purchase separately?
A: One central idea and advantage of MASCHINE is the extremely tight integration of hardware and software. While you can run the MASCHINE software without the controller connected, it was designed as an integrated system. Therefore, we have currently no plans to offer the software separately.
A: One central idea and advantage of MASCHINE is the extremely tight integration of hardware and software. While you can run the MASCHINE software without the controller connected, it was designed as an integrated system. Therefore, we have currently no plans to offer the software separately.
18.
Q: Can MASCHINE import REX files?
A: Yes, with version 1.6 import of 64 bit REX files is possible.
A: Yes, with version 1.6 import of 64 bit REX files is possible.
19.
Q: Is it the same TRANSIENT MASTER version as available as a product?
A: Yes, its the exact same effect but integrated in MASCHINE's effect section for a faster workflow.
A: Yes, its the exact same effect but integrated in MASCHINE's effect section for a faster workflow.
20.
Q: Is MASSIVE now part of the MASCHINE software code?
A: No, MASSIVE comes as a full blown stand alone version which integrates seamlessly with MASCHINE's software. It still functions as a stand-alone unit and as a VST/AU/RTAS plug-in in any third party host.
A: No, MASSIVE comes as a full blown stand alone version which integrates seamlessly with MASCHINE's software. It still functions as a stand-alone unit and as a VST/AU/RTAS plug-in in any third party host.
21.
Q: How do I get my free copy of MASSIVE and where is my serial number?
A: When you register the MASCHINE software, we'll send you an email with your download link for MASSIVE and the serial number required to activate the product in the NI Service Center.
If you have already registered your software but haven't yet received the email:
1. Wait. Sendout can take up to 48 hours.
2. Check your spam folder.
3. Contact order support. Select the category 'Promotions and e-vouchers', and follow the instructions on the screen.
A: When you register the MASCHINE software, we'll send you an email with your download link for MASSIVE and the serial number required to activate the product in the NI Service Center.
If you have already registered your software but haven't yet received the email:
1. Wait. Sendout can take up to 48 hours.
2. Check your spam folder.
3. Contact order support. Select the category 'Promotions and e-vouchers', and follow the instructions on the screen.
22.
Q: Can I sell the MASSIVE licence that comes with MASCHINE 1.8?
A: No, this license can't be sold separately because it is a bundled product.
A: No, this license can't be sold separately because it is a bundled product.
23.
Q: How do I get my free copy of KOMPLETE ELEMENTS and where is my Serial Number?
A: Your KOMPLETE ELEMENTS DVD and serial number are included in the MASCHINE product box.
A: Your KOMPLETE ELEMENTS DVD and serial number are included in the MASCHINE product box.
24.
Q: I already have KOMPLETE 7 or KOMPLETE 7 ELEMENTS installed on my computer. Is there any benefit to also installing the KOMPLETE ELEMENTS version that comes free with MASCHINE?
A: Yes. The content of the most recent KOMPLETE ELEMENTS version uses the new NI sound format. This new sound format enables you to browse and load all plug-in presets directly from the MASCHINE browser. Please make sure you use the latest version of KOMPLETE ELEMENTS to make full use of the MASCHINE 1.8 features.
A: Yes. The content of the most recent KOMPLETE ELEMENTS version uses the new NI sound format. This new sound format enables you to browse and load all plug-in presets directly from the MASCHINE browser. Please make sure you use the latest version of KOMPLETE ELEMENTS to make full use of the MASCHINE 1.8 features.