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SourceLab – Ultimate Audio Sandbox User Manual

Welcome to SourceLab by Initial Audio! This manual is your comprehensive, in-depth guide to every aspect of SourceLab—a groundbreaking audio plugin that fuses sampling, loop slicing, and wavetable synthesis into one powerful, unified environment. Whether you’re a beatmaker, sound designer, or electronic musician, this guide will help you master SourceLab’s advanced features, explain common practices in sound design, and provide real-world tips for creating the sounds you envision.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Installation & Setup
  3. Main Interface Overview
     3.1 Preset Browser & Sound Banks
     3.2 Sound Sources (A–F) & Quick Controls
     3.3 Global Macros, Voice Settings & Master Envelope
  4. Sequencer Page
     4.1 Sequencer Tabs & MIDI Routing
     4.2 MIDI Editing, Quantization & Note Shift
  5. Lab Page: Deep Dive
     5.1 Source Page Overview
      5.1.1 Sample Editor & Audio Import
      5.1.2 Detailed Sound Source Parameters
       - Instrument Mode (Samples)
       - Loop Slicer Mode
       - Wavetable Oscillator Mode
      5.1.3 Envelope Controls & Trigger Options
      5.1.4 Advanced Instrument Mode Settings
      5.1.5 Granular Synthesis Options
      5.1.6 Unison Settings & Per-Voice Control
  6. Modulation Tools
     6.1 AHDSR Modulators
     6.2 LFOs
     6.3 Multi-Stage Envelope Generator (MSEG)
     6.4 Shaper Modulator
     6.5 Macro Assignments
  7. MIDI Expression Tabs
     7.1 Available Expression Sources & Assignments
     7.2 Detailed Expression Settings & Common Use Cases
  8. Filter & Routing Page
     8.1 Interactive Filter Display & Controls
     8.2 Routing Matrix & Signal Flow Options
  9. Effect & Output Page
     9.1 Effect Racks & Their Functions
     9.2 Mixer, Serial/Parallel Routing & Master Rack
  10. Preset Saving & Management
  11. Tips, Tricks & Best Practices
  12. Troubleshooting & FAQ
  13. Contact & Support
  1. Introduction

SourceLab is an innovative, all-in-one audio plugin that redefines sound creation. By integrating multiple synthesis and sampling methods into a single, intuitive platform, it empowers producers and sound designers to:

  • Create rich, layered sounds with multisample, loop slicing, and wavetable synthesis.
  • Dive deep into dynamic modulation and routing for truly expressive audio.
  • Consolidate all elements of a preset into one portable file—ensuring hassle-free sharing and collaboration.

This manual is designed to guide you through every feature of SourceLab, explaining not only how to use each function but also why these tools matter for your creative workflow.

  1. Installation & Setup

System Requirements:

  • Ensure your computer meets the minimum CPU, RAM, and OS requirements.
  • Recommended for high-end production: multi-core processors, ample RAM (8GB+), and a stable DAW.

Installation:

  • Run the installer provided by Initial Audio and follow on-screen instructions.
  • Once installed, open your DAW and load SourceLab as an audio plugin.

First Launch:

  • Activate SourceLab: Click the top-left settings button and select “Activate SourceLab.”
  • Log in: Enter your initialaudio.com email address and password.
  • Activate: Click “Activate This Computer.”

    You can use SourceLab on up to three computers simultaneously. To activate it on a fourth, deactivate one of the existing three by clicking “Deactivate” in the activation list.

 

  • Familiarize yourself with the different pages: Main, Sequencer, Lab, Filter & Routing, and Effect & Output.
  • Explore the demo presets to get a feel for how SourceLab sounds and operates.
  1. Main Interface Overview

The Main Interface is your central hub for browsing, loading presets, and making quick adjustments.

Preset Browser & Sound Banks

  • Unlimited Sound Banks:
    • Create and manage an endless collection of soundbanks.
    • Each soundbank can hold presets that encapsulate full engine settings.
  • Preset Browser:
    • Browse presets complete with author names, comments, and visual tags.
    • Use tag filtering: preset characteristics are displayed on the right and genres below each preset. This helps you quickly locate the sound you need.

Sound Sources (A–F) & Quick Controls

  • 6 Sound Sources:
    • Each source (labeled A–F) can be configured as a sampler, loop slicer, or wavetable oscillator.
    • Common Usage:
      • Producers often use one source for drums (sample playback), another for melodic elements (synth presets), and others for textures or bass layers.
  • Quick Controls:
    • Octave: Shift the pitch by up to ±3 octaves—essential for quickly adapting sounds to different musical contexts.
    • Panorama: Adjust stereo imaging. Sound designers use panning to create space in a mix.
    • Gain: Control the volume of each source.
    • Lock Function:
      • Lock a source to preserve its settings when switching presets.
      • Practical Use: For instance, you might lock a pad texture while swapping out lead sounds.

Global Macros, Voice Settings & Master Envelope

  • Macros:
    • Assign up to 6 macros per preset.
    • Drag-and-drop to link a macro to any parameter.
    • Common Use: Control multiple parameters simultaneously—e.g., a single macro can modulate both filter cutoff and reverb mix for dramatic effect.
  • Voice Settings:
    • Choose between mono, legato, or polyphonic modes.
    • Polyphony Options: Select from preset counts (2, 4, 8, 16, 24, 32, 48) depending on your performance needs.
    • Tip: Use legato mode for smoother transitions when playing lead lines.
  • Master Envelope:
    • Global AHDSR envelope controls (Attack, Hold, Decay, Sustain, Release) for shaping the overall sound.
    • Use Case: Adjusting the master envelope can quickly add dynamics or soften harsh transients across all sources.
  1. Sequencer Page

The Sequencer Page is designed for comprehensive MIDI arrangement and timing control.

Sequencer Tabs & MIDI Routing

  • Seven Sequencer Tabs:
    • Master Sequencer: Triggers all sound sources simultaneously.
    • Sequencers 1–6: Each can be independently assigned to specific sound sources.
  • Routing Matrix:
    • Assign specific sound sources to each sequencer.
    • Practical Example: Route drums to Sequencer 1, synth chords to Sequencer 2, and bass to Sequencer 3.

MIDI Editing, Quantization & Note Shift

  • Editing Tools:
    • Import/Export: Drag-and-drop MIDI files into or out of the sequencer.
    • Quantization: Options include none, half, quarter, or eighth note quantization. This is crucial for tightening up rhythms.
    • Zoom Controls: Adjust zoom from 25% to 800% for detailed editing.
    • Note Selection & Shifting: Select multiple notes and transpose them for creative re-harmonization.
  • Note Shift Feature:
    • Set a root note (e.g., C4) so that when you trigger a note with a different pitch, the entire sequence transposes accordingly.
    • Usage: Ideal for live performance adjustments and ensuring your MIDI sequences always play in key.
  1. Lab Page: Deep Dive

The Lab Page is the heart of SourceLab, where detailed sound editing takes place. Here you can tweak every aspect of your audio source from the waveform level to advanced modulation and unison synthesis.

5.1 Source Page Overview

This page contains the Sample Editor, detailed Sound Source Parameters, advanced settings for each mode (Instrument, Loop Slicer, Wavetable), modulation, and unison options.

5.1.1 Sample Editor & Audio Import

  • Grid-Based Interface:
    • Drag-and-drop your samples into numbered slots (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6).
    • To create a multisample instrument, drag individual samples or a folder containing them onto the Source. For example, place your samples in a folder, naming them by their root note (e.g., C2.wav, A2.wav, C3.wav, F#3.wav, A3.wav, C4.wav, A4.wav, etc.). Drag the folder (not the individual files) into SourceLab. Ensure the folder contains only your samples. SourceLab will automatically map them to the keyboard based on their filenames (e.g., C2.wav will be assigned to C2).
    • The waveform of each sample is displayed for visual editing.
  • Editing Functions:
    • Trim & Set Start/End Points: Precisely define where a sample begins and ends.
    • Loop Points:
      • Automatically display any existing loop points.
      • Manually adjust by dragging markers.
      • Common Practice: Sound designers often set loop points to create seamless, repeating textures.
    • Naming & Metadata:
      • Assign a custom name to each sample, making it easier to locate and identify within your projects.

5.1.2 Detailed Sound Source Parameters

Each sound source (A–F) has an identical parameter set, regardless of mode. Below are details for each mode.

Instrument Mode (Sample-Based)

  • Pitch Controls:
    • Octave: Adjust by up to ±3 octaves.
    • Semitone: Fine control in steps up to 12 semitones.
    • Fine Tune:
      • Provides micro-adjustments.
      • Randomization:
        • Introduces slight pitch variations with each trigger, often used to mimic natural, analog imperfections.
  • Additional Controls:
    • Panorama: Adjust stereo position to create a spatial image.
    • Gain: Control volume output.
    • Phase & Phase Randomization:
      • Sets the playback start point.
      • Randomization can make repetitive sounds feel more organic, a common trick for drum samples.

Loop Slicer Mode

  • Loop Slicing Engine:
    • Automatically divides an audio loop into segments based on musical timing (bars, beats).
    • Trigger Assignment:
      • Map each slice to specific keys for live performance or programmed sequences.
    • Manual Editing:
      • Adjust boundaries by dragging markers.
      • Application: Perfect for creating chopped hip-hop beats or glitch effects.

Wavetable Oscillator Mode

  • Wavetable Loading:
    • Load and play custom wavetables, including ones created in other popular synthesizers.
  • Playback Controls:
    • Similar to sample-based parameters but with an emphasis on wavetable position:
      • Wavetable Position:
        • Morph between different waveform cycles.
        • Usage Tip: Dynamic wavetable movement can add evolving texture to your sound.

5.1.3 Envelope Controls & Trigger Options

  • Per-Source Envelopes (AHDSR):
    • Parameters: Attack, Hold, Decay, Sustain, Release.
    • Trigger Modes:
      • Standard (Note On): Triggers with each key press.
      • Legato: Prevents re-triggering when notes overlap, useful for smooth pad transitions.
      • Sequencer Dependent: Syncs with the sequencer, ideal for rhythmic gating effects.
    • Independent Mode:
      • Enables an envelope that is not influenced by the global (master) envelope.
    • Release Trigger:
      • Activates the envelope on key release—often used to layer percussive elements or to add a delayed effect to a sustained sound.

5.1.4 Advanced Instrument Mode Settings

  • Loop & Reverse Options:
    • Looping: Engage loop mode for continuous playback.
    • Reverse: Play the sample backwards—useful for special effects or risers.
  • Maintain Speed:
    • Ensures that altering pitch does not affect playback speed.
    • Benefit: A zero latency, low CPU pitch shifter—ideal when drastic pitch changes are needed without time distortion.
  • Find Loop Points:
    • An algorithm scans the sample to suggest optimal loop points.
    • Tip: Adjust these manually if the automatic detection doesn’t match your creative vision.
  • Windowing Amount:
    • Smooth out transitions by applying a window function to reduce abrupt discontinuities.
    • Common Application: Essential when working with wavetables or looping samples to prevent clicks and pops.

5.1.5 Granular Synthesis Options

Granular synthesis breaks your audio into small grains and reassembles them to create entirely new textures.

  • Grain Parameters:
    • Size & Density:
      • Control the duration and the number of grains.
    • Pitch Shifting:
      • Shift grains by up to ±24 semitones for dramatic, otherworldly effects.
    • Grain Gain & Mix:
      • Adjust the volume of individual grains and blend with the original sound.
  • Randomization Controls:
    • Start Position, Grain Size, Pitch, Panorama, Gain:
      • Introduce controlled randomness to simulate natural variations.
    • Grain Direction:
      • Choose 100% forward, 100% backward, or a mix to alter the texture dynamically.
  • Window Warp Options:
    • Apply a windowing function to each grain using different shapes:
      • Henning, Tukey, Trapezoid, Triangle, Sinc, ADSR:
        • Insight: Sound designers often use a Sinc window for its smooth, natural roll-off and ADSR window for a more envelope-like control over grain evolution.

5.1.6 Unison Settings & Per-Voice Control

Unison synthesis thickens and enriches your sound by layering multiple, slightly detuned copies of a sound.

  • Unison Voices:
    • Activate up to 24 voices per sound source.
  • Per-Voice Controls:
    • Phase:
      • Adjust phase offsets to create a sense of width and movement.
      • Common Use: A slight phase difference among voices can make pads and leads sound fuller.
    • Octave & Semitone:
      • Fine-tune the pitch spread across unison voices.
    • Fine Tune:
      • Provide micro-adjustments per voice.
    • Panorama & Gain:
      • Position each voice within the stereo field and adjust its level individually.
    • Wavetable Position (Wavetable Mode):
      • Independently modulate the wavetable position for each voice, enabling intricate morphing effects and evolving textures.
  1. Modulation Tools

Deep modulation is a key feature in SourceLab, allowing you to dynamically change your sound over time.

6.1 AHDSR Modulators

  • Core Functions:
    • Define envelope shapes using Attack, Hold, Decay, Sustain, and Release.
  • Trigger Modes:
    • Standard (Note On), Legato, or Sequencer-dependent.
  • Common Usage:
    • Used to shape amplitude, filter cutoff, or any parameter that benefits from gradual change.

6.2 LFOs

  • Oscillator Settings:
    • Sync vs. Free Running:
      • Sync mode locks the LFO rate to your DAW’s tempo; free running allows arbitrary rates.
    • Bipolar vs. Unipolar:
      • Choose a waveform that oscillates both above and below zero (bipolar) or strictly positive (unipolar).
    • Rise Time, Phase & Gain:
      • Control how quickly the LFO reaches full amplitude, where it starts in its cycle, and its overall strength.
  • Additional Options:
    • Normalize, remove DC offset, mirror waveform.
    • Custom Shapes:
      • Draw your own LFO shapes on an adjustable grid for unique modulation patterns.
  • Practical Insight:
    • LFOs are commonly used for vibrato effects, rhythmic filter sweeps, and creating evolving textures.

6.3 Multi-Stage Envelope Generator (MSEG)

  • Node-Based Editing:
    • Double-click to add nodes, drag to adjust the envelope’s curve.
  • Output Polarity & Trigger Modes:
    • Choose positive, negative, or bipolar output.
    • Trigger on Note On, Legato, or via the Sequencer.
  • Loop Modes & Snap Options:
    • Options for one-shot, looping, loop release, or sustaining a section.
  • Common Application:
    • Used for complex modulation curves—ideal for rhythmic gating effects or evolving soundscapes.

6.4 Shaper Modulator

  • Waveform Shaping:
    • Use to sculpt any modulation curve in real time.
  • Usage Tip:
    • Effective for smoothing abrupt transitions or for custom modulation shapes that other modulators cannot easily achieve.

6.5 Macro Assignments

  • Macro Controls:
    • Up to 6 macros per preset, controlling parameters from 0% to 100%.
  • Drag-and-Drop Assignment:
    • Simply drag the macro’s connection circle to any target parameter.
  • Adjustment Popup:
    • Fine-tune the modulation amount, set polarity, or bypass the connection.
  • Common Use:
    • A single macro might control multiple parameters simultaneously, such as increasing both delay feedback and reverb mix for a dramatic effect.
  1. MIDI Expression Tabs

MIDI Expression Tabs offer real-time performance controls that add expressiveness to your playing.

7.1 Available Expression Sources & Assignments

  • Keyboard Tracking:
    • Modulates parameters based on the note’s pitch position.
  • Note On/Off Velocity:
    • Captures how hard or soft a note is played; commonly used to control filter cutoff or volume dynamics.
  • Modulation Wheel:
    • Standard MIDI CC for vibrato, filter sweeps, or dynamic effects.
  • Aftertouch:
    • Responds to pressure applied after the note is struck, often used to modulate vibrato or add subtle dynamic changes.
  • Expression Pedal & MPE Slide:
    • For continuous control and per-note adjustments, ideal for nuanced performance dynamics.

7.2 Detailed Expression Settings & Common Use Cases

  • Pitch Bend Amount:
    • Set the range (in semitones) for pitch bending.
  • Voice Steal Modes:
    • Reuse (Default): Reuses the same voice for overlapping notes.
    • Reassign: Triggers a new voice for each note, ideal for avoiding abrupt changes in parameters such as filter cutoff.
  • Sensitivity Curves:
    • Customize how raw MIDI data is translated into modulation depth.
  • Practical Example:
    • Mapping Note On Velocity to a filter’s cutoff is common: a harder press opens the filter more, adding brightness and energy to your sound.
  1. Filter & Routing Page

This page allows you to shape your tone with precision and set up complex signal flows.

8.1 Interactive Filter Display & Controls

  • Frequency Analyzer:
    • Real-time display of your audio spectrum, overlaid with the active filter’s response curve.
  • Direct Interaction:
    • Drag the display to adjust both cutoff and resonance simultaneously.
  • Filter Parameters:
    • Cutoff Frequency:
      • The point where the filter begins attenuating the signal.
      • Use Case: Lowering cutoff for a warmer, darker sound; raising it for brightness.
    • Key Tracking:
      • Adjusts cutoff in relation to the note played—common in synthesizers to emulate acoustic instrument behavior.
    • Resonance, Drive & Gain:
      • Enhance the harmonic content and character of your sound.
      • Drive: Often used to add a touch of distortion or warmth.
    • Quality Mode:
      • Enable oversampling to reduce aliasing, which is especially useful when using heavy resonance or drive settings.

8.2 Routing Matrix & Signal Flow Options

  • Flexible Signal Routing:
    • Route any combination of sound sources through specific filters or bypass them entirely.
  • Parallel vs. Serial Processing:
    • Serial Routing: Chain filters and effects in sequence for cumulative processing.
    • Parallel Routing: Send different sources to separate processing chains, then mix them back together.
  • Practical Tip:
    • Experiment with routing to find new tonal blends—for example, sending drum samples through a warm lowpass filter while leaving synth layers untouched.
  1. Effect & Output Page

This page combines an effect rack with a mixer to finalize your sound processing.

9.1 Effect Racks & Their Functions

  • Six Effect Racks:
    • Each rack can host a chain of effects such as:
      • Compressor: Controls dynamics by reducing peak levels.
      • Drive/Distortion: Adds grit, saturation, or harmonic complexity.
      • Chorus: Creates thicker sounds through subtle detuning and modulation.
      • Reverb & Delay: Generate space and depth.
      • EQ & Filter: Fine-tune tonal balance.
      • Multiband Compressor: Offers dynamic control across different frequency ranges.
  • Drag-and-Drop Ordering:
    • Rearrange effects within a rack to sculpt your processing chain precisely.
  • Bypass, Mute, Solo:
    • Toggle individual effects to hear how each processing stage contributes to your final sound.

9.2 Mixer, Serial/Parallel Routing & Master Rack

  • Mixer Overview:
    • Visual representation of effect rack outputs routed to different output buses.
  • Routing Options:
    • Serial Routing: Chain multiple racks for a linear process.
    • Parallel Routing: Combine outputs from several racks to a single bus.
  • Master Rack Function:
    • Right-click a rack to designate it as the Master Effect Rack, which automatically collects outputs from other racks.
    • Use Case: Apply final compression or EQ to your entire mix.
  1. Preset Saving & Management

SourceLab offers a robust system for saving and organizing your sounds.

  • Save Preset Page:
    • Required Fields:
      • Preset Name: A descriptive title for easy recall.
      • Bank Name & Type: Categorize your preset within a sound bank.
    • Optional Fields:
      • Author & Comments: Additional context or creative notes.
      • Images: Customize preset icons and bank banners.
  • Tagging System:
    • Organize presets using predefined or custom tags based on genres and sound characteristics.
  • File Consolidation:
    • Every preset file includes all elements—samples, wavetables, loops, MIDI data—ensuring seamless sharing without missing assets.
  1. Tips, Tricks & Best Practices
  • Explore Modulation Creatively:
    • Experiment with routing modulators to unconventional parameters. A subtle LFO on the fine tune can add analog warmth; an MSEG can create rhythmic gating effects.
  • Lock and Layer:
    • Use the lock function on sound sources to preserve textures while swapping out other elements.
  • Maximize Unison:
    • Engage unison modes for fat, lush pads or aggressive leads. Slight detuning between voices often adds life and depth.
  • Efficient Routing:
    • Test both serial and parallel routing for filters and effects to discover new tonal possibilities.
  • Preset Organization:
    • Regularly save and tag presets. A well-organized library speeds up your workflow, especially during live sessions.
  1. Troubleshooting & FAQ
  • Missing Files:
    • Confirm that presets are fully consolidated. If a preset doesn’t load correctly, verify that all samples, wavetables, and MIDI data are embedded.
  • High CPU Usage:
    • Disable Quality Mode in filters or simplify your effect routing if performance is an issue.
  • Modulation Issues:
    • Ensure modulators are properly connected via drag-and-drop. Check that they aren’t inadvertently bypassed.
  • MIDI Input Problems:
    • Double-check your MIDI controller settings and the note shift configuration.
  • General Questions:
    • Consult our FAQ section on the Initial Audio website or contact support.
  1. Contact & Support

For further assistance, updates, or to share your feedback, please reach out to us:

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Website: Initial Audio Official Site
  • Community Forums: Join our online community for tips, troubleshooting, and creative discussions.

Thank you for choosing SourceLab. We’re thrilled to have you on this creative journey and can’t wait to hear the innovative sounds you’ll create. Happy sound designing and beatmaking!

This manual is continuously updated as we refine SourceLab—check our website for the latest version and new feature announcements.

Happy creating and keep pushing the boundaries of sound!

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