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Variation Locking

Pattern parts can be forced to use the same variation numbers by being assigned a common lock identifier. Each time a different variation plays in one part, all other parts in the locked group play their own variations of the same number.

In the Variations area of the Part Properties window, click the Lock ID list and choose 1-create to create a new group, or choose any group in the list that has already been created. After you assign two or more parts to a group, all their variations play in tandem.

Suppose, for example, that you want a drum part to match its 32 variations to the 32 variations in a bass part. Assign both parts to the same variations lock group. This ensures that special rhythmic ideas always occur together.

Conversely, you can use variation locking to provide a more predictable counterpoint to your music. If two or more parts have variations that complement each other with contrapuntal movement, you can lock them together so their variations play in tandem and provide the counterpoint you intend, without mixing variations in unwanted combinations.

You can use the variations lock to create up to 255 groupings from variations in any parts in a pattern.

When you edit a part that is assigned to a variations lock group, you can hear the effect of variations locking. When you activate one variation in a part during playback, the variations with the same number play in all other parts that belong to the same variations lock group.


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