Getting Started

Transkr — quick-start guide.

Step 1

Set up Transkr in your DAW. Follow the DAW setup guide for your environment if you have not done so already.

Step 2

Open Transkr and select a default preset for your instrument. The algorithm models pitch using a parametrised instrument model rather than a statistical approximation. Starting from a preset calibrated for your instrument gives the most reliable baseline.

Step 3

Adjust the gain until the VU meter responds clearly without clipping. A well-calibrated input level is the most important factor for reliable pitch detection. For guitar, using a pick rather than fingerpicking gives better onset detection.

Step 4

Tune your instrument using the built-in tuner. The A reference defaults to 440 Hz and can be adjusted there to match your session's concert pitch. For guitar and bass, a single strum is sufficient to check all strings simultaneously.

Step 5

Enable the anti-hum filter to eliminate 50/60 Hz electrical noise from the input signal. Disable it only if it interferes with the lower register of your instrument.

Step 6

Enable Passthrough (P) to verify that the input signal is free of clicks and pops.

Step 7

Click the green robot button to activate real-time audio-to-MIDI conversion. The button turns magenta when active. Detected pitches are converted to MIDI events and sent to your DAW via the selected MIDI output and channel.

To convert an existing audio file, drag a WAVE, AIFF, or MP3 file onto the green button. The resulting MIDI file will appear next to the original audio file in the same directory.

To transpose all MIDI output by octaves, use the selector directly below the MIDI output dropdown. The options are: at the detected octave (default), one octave higher (8va), one octave lower (8vb), two octaves higher (15ma), or two octaves lower (15mb).

The buttons labelled L, E, T, K and F open and close the Leveller, Equaliser, Tuner, Keyboard and Fretboard windows respectively.