Previewing loops

A preview We can derive the ultimate gain and ultimate period (or frequency) with stability analyses. In Chapter 7, we use the substitution s = jco in the closed-loop characteristic equation. In Chapter 8, we make use of what is called the Nyquist stability criterion and Bode plots. 

By their very nature, tasks which enable one to measure spatiotemporal accuracy are complex or higher-level sensory-motor tasks. These place demands on a large number of lower-level PRs such as visual acuity, dynamic visual perception, range of movement, strength, simple reaction times, acceler-ation/deacceleration, static steadiness, dynamic steadiness, prediction, memory, open-loop movements, concentration span, attention switching, that is, central executive function or supervisory attentional system (multitask abilities), utilization of preview, and learning. 

The Explorer window functions almost exactly like Windows Explorer and allows you to locate and manage media files on your computer. ACID s Explorer, however, allows you to preview a selected media file (click the Auto Preview button—see Figure 1.15) and also gives you additional information about the selected file in the Summary View at the bottom of the window. This works only when a loop is selected If nothing is selected, nothing is previewed and no information is displayed. Media files are added to new tracks in a project by doubleclicking the files or by dragging them to the timeline from ACID Explorer. 

To automatically preview the selected loop file, click the Auto Preview button in the Explorer window, making sure it is depressed. You can manually preview loop files using the Start Preview and Stop Preview buttons if you prefer. 

The basic routine when adding media to a project is to play back the project (or loop play a smaller portion of the project) and preview media files in the Explorer window one at a time (possibly using the arrow keys on your keyboard to move, pause, and preview through the files in a folder) until you find suitable loops. Of course, this isn t an entirely random process. As you become more familiar with your loop library, you ll be able to zero in on what you need much more quickly. 

All audio events, video events, and MIDI events are contained in tracks on the timeline. Therefore, you need to create a new track before you can create an event To create a track, browse for and preview media files (loops) in AQD Explorer and then double-click one to create a track. 

Loops that are being previewed in the Explorer window change key as the project is playing back, making it possible to assess the harmonics of the new loop in relation to the project. 

The Stutter plug-in seems to react slowly to changes, and the preview on the timeline might take a second or two to update if you are continuously looping playback while you work. 

MacAdam, C. 1981. Application of an optirrud preview control for simulation of closed-loop automobile driving, IEEE Trans. Syst., Man, Cybem., vol. SMC-11, no. 9, 393 399. 

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