🎹Key switches

The key switches we use are identical to the trigger keys used in the output mapping of the Articulation Sets. This means if, for instance, E0 is used to switch to “Tremolo” in a certain library, we use E0 to make the articulation map switch to Tremolo as well. For Spitfire libraries, the key switches follow the natural order of the articulation within the instrument. See below for more details.

In addition, we’ve consolidated the most important key switches into the first octave, starting at C-2. This way, all libraries behave the same regarding those changes.

A couple of instruments do not follow this order, as they don’t contain enough techniques that fall into the categories in the diagram above. The template names of these instruments end with a swung dash “~”.

It should be mentioned that some libraries use key switches in the higher registers. Some switches might stop working if you decide to move up the Root Note for the key switches to best use your keyboard’s real estate. This is because the span of MIDI notes is limited, and the notes become too high.

Another thing worth mentioning is that Logic has a MIDI channel setting in the Articulation setup. If you have a second keyboard or another way to input key switches, use another channel – this will avoid any issues with large amounts on lower octave key switches. Here’s the layout:

Why is The First Key Switch Empty?

You might notice that in every articulation set, the first expression is “- - -“ which stands for empty. Choosing this articulation will choose no specific expression. Cubase switches to the first expression when you start recording. Of course, this might be an issue when you want to record with a specific expression. Using the empty first slot, you can choose an articulation in the instrument, record it, and then assign the correct expression to the notes you’ve recorded.

Alternatively, use the key switches to choose the articulation while recording.

Directions and Attribute

You might have already spotted that every map exists in two variations, one with a “D” for Direct at the end of the file name and the other with an “A” for Attribute. We’ve decided to supply you with both options because there are different ways of working with expression maps.

Ultimately, all that matters is that this library speeds up your workflow and enables you to focus more on composing and less on technicalities.

Details on Directions and Attributes can be found in the 🔗Cubase / Nuendo manuals.