EXS 24 Logic Sampler Users Group

It's great that there are choices for users as far as conversions go. I 
prefer to answer questions about Translator, since it's what I'm a part of, 
and to a limited degree (without being overly defensive) correct any 
misinformation. I would suggest that anyone who is looking for conversion 
software that they study the abundant information available, especially 
from the product web sites, and make an informed decision based on what 
they need. That's the most important thing.

Between the two softwares in question, there are similarities, and there 
are differences. Maybe with future posts, or at least on CS's web site, 
we'll be presenting what those are, again so the user knows what will fit 
their needs and budget.

Translator Mac has been out for release since late May. Since that time, we 
know three major touring bands that has used Translator to convert their 
samples into EXS AND Roland XV-5080 for their shows, and many users that 
have converted their entire libraries into EXS and actually stopped using 
Translator since they were pretty much done with it for the time being.

We can also say that anyone can call us (that's the phone) or e-mail 
(that's the computer) at anytime with a question or issue, and we'll 
immediately address it personally.

There will be more to say on the topic in the future as well.

But - there's a bit too much misinformation going on, so forgive me - I'm 
would like to clarify some points. If anyone really wants to know what is 
possible with Translator Mac, go to www.chickensys.com/translator. There is 
a Demo up, get that and run it. See for yourself.

>[regarding CDX] Apart from the fact that all the features work

There is nothing claimed in Translator as working that does not work. I 
hope you are not implying otherwise.

>you have incredible stuff like the Magic Sample player to preview many 
>samples, a
>functional database system and that's not all....

It should be said that Translator has a Sample Player, too - but 
unfortunately it's not Magic. Our understanding is that Apple cannot put 
the "Magic" code in their OS's, because Bill Gates has a patent on it. =)

OK, enough funniness. Translator does have a player, no difference, but 
does not have a database - that's correct. (BTW, it should be said that the 
important thing is to convert - although other features are important, 
nothing takes the place of A-1 accurate translations. Should this not be 
mentioned?)

>With CDXtract you can Merge & Stack programs from your sample disks
>to create multi-layered new programs and then just hit Save and CDX
>does it all for you!

Congratulations for CDX! I think that's a neat feature. No, Translator does 
not do this.

>I have lots of Roland CD's and the Roland de-emphasis is taken into 
>consideration [in CDX].

I do want to catch up on what was discussed a couple months ago about 
Roland Deemphasis and the programs in question. Translator has the EXACT 
Roland algorithm for Emphasis (going into Roland) and DeEmphasis (going out 
of Roland). When we say EXACT we mean that it is Roland's code, not ours. 
What is in Translator is the same processing routine as what is in the 
software of the Roland S-7x series and others. CDxtract claimed their's was 
"exact," but I would question their usage of the term. There are 
differences in the resulting waves of each conversion program - they are 
different. The author of CDX said that he calculated the curve; great, but 
to say that's "exact" is probably not the best choice of words.

I can only say that if you are using Translator Mac, it's not even close - 
it's actually perfect, and literally "exact." Not only that, you have three 
other preset options, in case you like those better, and one custom option.

>When you convert, you have lots of options of how to
>save - file format, default folder for program and sample files for
>EXS24  (phew, I got this post back on topic), kind of what you'd
>expect from a sample conversion program. The conversions sound great
>in Logic/EXS24.

This is a good example of the similarities of the programs. All these have 
been available in Translator Mac from Day One. The writer seems to imply 
that Translator does not do these things - correct me if I'm wrong here. I 
am not put off that he prefers another program, but I do question the 
implication that Translator does not do the features mentioned. He has the 
program, he should know better, unless I misunderstood him.

I would be authoritative about CDX, and make some comparative statements, 
but it's been several days since I placed my request in for an update and I 
haven't heard anything back.

Garth Hjelte
Sampler User