Tracker

Home > Tracker

Where can I download the Polyend Tracker factory SD card content?

If you need to obtain the Polyend Tracker factory SD card content you'll need a Polyend ID first. Please create your ID by clicking on "Log in or register" at polyend.com. After creating your ID, you can register your product using the serial number printed on the back panel of your unit. You will be then given access to the Downloads section where you can download all the latest SD card content, sample packs, and any additional former and future goodies.

What is the Polyend Tracker?

It's a portable eight-track groovebox with a sequencer that can be any number of steps from one to 128. Then you can arrange sequences to build complete compositions in song mode, master them and export them as polished pieces. It can record samples, edit them, turn them into playable synths.

Is the Tracker battery powered?

Polyend Tracker does not have an onboard battery but it runs on 5V 1A so any decent power brick will allow you to power it up. Depending on the workload, a basic 20K mAh power brick will let Tracker go on for long hours or even days. Important: The best method to power up your tracker is to use the original AC adapter through. Please notice that an "intelligent" power brick with advanced power management systems or even a "smart" computer USB out used for powering can cause issues and turn y...

Is there a PDF version of the Polyend Tracker manual available?

Yes, you can generate a PDF file based on the current Tracker's manual online version. Use the "Download as PDF" text button at the top of the online manual version page (https://polyend.com/manuals/tracker/#quick-guide-tips-tricks). The online version is necessary as we're constantly updating the features on the instrument, so the manual is evolving too.

Are there a Tracker manual or tutorials available?

Find both at polyend.com/help https://polyend.com/manuals/ https://polyend.com/tutorials/

Can I power up the Tracker with the Poly 2 USB Host port?

Polyend Tracker & Poly 2 Eurorack Integration Video Clip (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3vrRQKyoys) When using Poly 2 USB type A Host port for powering the Tracker or any other instruments, make sure to provide a stable +5V from your case AC adapter. There's a jumper switch on the back panel of the Poly 2. By default, the jumper is set to provide the 5V straight from the case AC adapter 5V bus if available. If there's no dedicated 5V bus in your case then the Host port may not be able to p...

What capacity SD cards can be used and what's the file partition format used?

The SD card needs to be formatted to the primary FAT32 MBR partition type. While the included SD card is 16 GB, cards up to 128 GB were successfully tested too. Some of the Tracker users are reporting the use of cards up to 512 GB. We recommend UHS-I cards, particularly ones that are rated A1 or A2. The built-in disk-utility under Mac OS will allow you to select FAT32 for formatting.

What is the lowest tempo in BPM in the Tracker?

At the moment, the lowest BPM in the Tracker is 40 BPM (because of the AMP envelope length). But there's an option to overcome it easily for what you're trying to achieve. With the use of the step Tempo Fx will allow you to go down to about 10 BPM.

Can you play/record polyphonically in the Tracker?

Yes, there are 8 monophonic tracks, you can record up to 8 voices at the same time using Tracker's pads or an external controller. You need to select the number of tracks you want to record notes into (eg triad chord = 3 tracks marked). Each note will be recorded to a separate track. You can overcome this limitation both by using the Render Selection function for audio tracks and for the MIDI by using the 0 – MIDI Chord step Fx. It sends many MIDI notes from a single step, at the same time. Num...

How do I perform the emergency flashing procedure?

If your device lost power during the upgrade, the SD file structure was damaged, or the firmware doesn't boot up for any other reason, you can perform one of the two emergency flashing procedures as follows: First method: - just simply press the hidden reset button on the back panel of the instrument and it will automatically flash with a randomly picked firmware .ptf file from the SD card Firmware/ folder. Second method: - download the Polyend Tool, (https://polyend.com/downloads...

What time signatures Tracker can handle?

The Polyend Tracker doesn't have a time signature setting as such, it's more flexible than that. Every pattern has an arbitrary number of steps and you can decide on your own how to interpret them. For example, by default, the length of a pattern is 32 steps. So two 4/4 bars when one quarter is 4 steps each. But you can just as well set a pattern to have 96 steps which will yield eight 3/4 bars when one quarter is 4 steps each. And you can take that same pattern, increase tempo two-fold, and no...

What is the exact Tracker's amperage draw?

In the normal operation, Polyend Tracker's amperage draw is about 0,45A to 0,5A. The device startup peak can reach up to 1,25A during 6ms impulse measured.

Is the Polyend Tracker MIDI compatible?

Yes, it can send and receive MIDI messages over its dedicated mini-TRS Type B MIDI ports and over the bidirectional USB Type-C port. - MIDI output sends: clock/transport/notes/CC/PC, - MIDI input receives clock/transport/notes (with vel and micro-moves)/CC with supported incoming CC messages: - CC41 – CC48 – Performance mode track change. - CC51 – CC62 – Performance mode Fx slot values. - CC71 – CC82 – Master section mixer volume levels. - CC79 – Delay mix. - CC80 – Reverb mix. ...

Is there a global Swing function available in the Polyend Tracker?

The swing effect in the Polyend Tracker can be achieved in the Polyend Tracker by both applying the micromove step Fx per step or using the globally affecting Swing step Fx.

I’m new to MIDI. How do I sync the Tracker with other MIDI gear?

Check the following Tracker Tutorial MIDI output (https://youtu.be/lMfeOLy-jSY) video. Let's use the Medusa synth for this example (will work the same for most other instruments). Assuming you want to use the Tracker to send notes, CC, clock sync, and Transport data to the Medusa then do the following: - Connect one end of a MIDI cable to the included Tracker adapter, - Connect the 3.5mm adapter to the MIDI Out on the Tracker, - Connect the other end of the MIDI cable (without adapter) to M...

What are the Tracker's dimensions?

The Polyend Tracker's size and Weight are: Height (w/ knob): 1.3 inch (3.3 cm) Width: 11.02 inches (28.2 cm) Depth: 8.15 inches (20.7 cm) Weight: 2.65 pounds (1.2 kg).

What is the Tracker's audio ports electrical specification?

Audio Input Unbalanced mono, with the tip sleeve only. Line Input: - Audio input impedance: 29kΩ - Input level: 8.2 dBu peak - SNR: 90 dB Microphone Input: - Microphone input impedance: 2,9kΩ - Input level: 8.2 dBu peak Audio Output Sharing the same physical port: Line Output: - Output level: 9 dBm peak (when 10 Ω Load) - SNR: 97 dB Headphone Output: - Output level: 17,6 dBm (when 16 Ω Load) - SNR: 98 dB

Can Polyend Tracker send out MIDI sequence and record it using audio input at the same time?

Yes, it is possible to use the Tracker to sequence an external synth using MIDI channel sends and then record that audio back into Tracker while it is playing the pattern. Go to Sample Recorder, press the Record screen key, and then press the dedicated Play button to start and stop the sequence. This will start your MIDI sequence playback while simultaneously sample recording from the audio input connector. Keep it up and have fun with your Tracker!

Can I charge/power the Tracker with USB-C to C cable?

Due to the build batch updates, the Tracker units with square button caps require the use of a USB-C to A cable for powering while the Tracker units with the rounded keycaps are able to operate on both C to C and C to A USB types cables.

My Tracker unit froze or behaves funky, what should I do?

Your first and simplest action to try is turn it off. If it's frozen, disconnect the USB-C cable connector from the port on the back panel of the instrument. This usually helps. Unit still crashing? Try this: connect your SD card to your computer and delete the hidden “Workspace” folder. But if your device lost power during the upgrade, the SD file structure was damaged, or the firmware doesn’t boot up for any other reason, you can perform one of the two emergency flashing procedures which are...

What is the display used in the Polyend Tracker?

It's 7″ LCD TFT with a resolution of 800 x 480.

My Tracker's Jog-wheel wobble, what should I do about it?

Nothing. This is normal, the aluminum cap is large and heavy so it's wobbly. This is more or less the same for all the units. As long as the encoder works smoothly and there's no physical contact with the front plate, it's all good. This behavior may vary as the used encoders have different deviations. This isn't anything adjustable (yet the Allen wrench/hex size is 1.3). IMPORTANT: The encoder parts are subject to wear as a result of the high force applied to the knob. To minimize the risk of ...

Are there any protection covers available for the Tracker?

Yes, both Polyend Tracker Cover and Polyend Tracker Traveling Hard Case are available for purchase at polyend.com/accessories (http://polyend.com/accessories?fbclid=IwAR3evJOJoQPsrpyF77yIz-tzIkNufDSMtnllmrLVWV2aRtN_26twDbTnues) Patented smoked/clear transparency, made by @decksaver. Protects against dust, liquid, and impact. Shields vulnerable screen, switches, and knob during transportation. Low-profile design enables compatibility with most flight cases and travel bags.

Is there a dedicated Polyend Tracker travelling hard case?

Yes, it's available for purchase at polyend.com/accessories.

What software licencies is Polyend Tracker firmware using?

// Copyright 2014 Emilie Gillet. // // Author: Emilie Gillet (emilie.o.gillet@gmail.com) // // Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy // of this software and associated documentation files (the "Software"), to deal // in the Software without restriction, including without limitation the rights // to use, copy, modify, merge, publish, distribute, sublicense, and/or sell // copies of the Software, and to permit persons to whom the Software is // furni...

Under what license can original sample sounds from Polyend Tracker be used and reproduced by its users?

Sounds - License Agreement The Sounds (Wav files) remain the property of their manufacturer (Collectively, "Licensor") and are licensed to you as the original end-user ("Licensee"), for use subject to the provisions below. All rights not expressly granted herein are reserved exclusively by Licensor. All Rights not expressly granted to the user are reserved. The Sounds samples contained on the SD card of Polyend Tracker are licensed, not sold, to you to be reproduced within your original mu...

What Performance mode punch-in Fx are available?

Volume from -100 to 100. Panning from -100 to 100. Tune from -48 to 48, works for MIDI. Low-pass filter cutoff from -100 to 100. High-pass filter cutoff from -100 to 100. Band-pass filter cutoff from -100 to 100. Delay Fx send from -100 to 100. Reverb Fx send from -100 to 100. Sample position from -100 to 100. Sample end from -100 to 100. Sample playback: Fwd - forward, Back - reverse, Rnd - Random. Volume LFO Speed from -28 to +28. Panning LFO Speed from -28 to +28. Finetune LFO Sp...

What step effects are available in the Polyend Tracker?

While in the Pattern sequencer view. Press and hold one of the Fx keys to show the Fx list. Use the screen button underneath. It will expand their description popup. - - None, indicates that there is no effect used on the desired step. ! - Off, toggles off the effect used on the previous step. V - Velocity sets the Velocity of an Instrument from 0% to 100%. When V is not specified, the default velocity set in Instrument Parameters is used. P - Panning sets the Panning of an Instrument from -...

Can I switch between vertical and horizontal sequencing display types in the Polyend Tracker?

Yes, you can choose from the Vertical (default classic tracker sequencing style display) and Horizontal (for the most popular left to right time-line sequencing style display) up to your preferences in the Config > General options.

Do the Tracker have an option of different time signatures per pattern?

Patterns don't have time signatures at all. They have lengths. If you change a pattern of length 32 to 24 then you just changed a 4/4 to 3/4.

Can I prepare a wavetable audio files on the Tracker?

Yes, you can, using pretty much any available audio file. Use the WT Smoother tool in the Sample Editor section in order to turn any sample into a smoothly interpolated wavetable synthesis sound source. Please notice that self-prepared wavetable files may not be perfectly smoothened out even using the Smoother tool and may sometimes cause audio clicking, especially when using heavy modulations.

How do I gain access to the Tracker's beta firmware versions?

Just log in to the Tracker's Github (https://github.com/polyend/TrackerIssues/releases) space, download the newest firmware files, report bugs and submit feature update ideas there. Make sure to read the How to Beta firmware document (https://github.com/polyend/TrackerIssues/blob/master/HOWTO_BETA_FIRMWARE.md).

What are the available instrument playback modes in the Tracker?

- 1-shot (preview, set start point, set endpoint, zoom), - Forward/Backward/Pingpong Loop (preview, set start point, set loop start, set loop end, set endpoint, zoom). - Slice – use to slice a sample by manually adding and adjusting slice points, or use the auto slicing function which automatically detects dynamic amplitude changes and slices audio file accordingly (separate slices portions can be adjusted later on). The number of the slice can be accessed via per step Slice Fx (S). - Beat Sl...

How do I update Tracker's firmware?

To flash Tracker's firmware: - Copy the firmware .ptf file to the Tracker’s microSD card using the attached microSD card USB dongle reader, - Or use the Polyend Tool, (https://polyend.com/downloads/) How to perform Polyend Tracker firmware update video. (https://youtu.be/YB_h0qTBGKk) Find the latest official firmware release here (https://polyend.com/downloads/). Obtain the beta firmware version files here (https://github.com/polyend/TrackerIssues/releases/). In case of trouble ...

Can the Polyend Tracker record samples and playback the sequences at the same time?

The Tracker can either record samples or playback the audio sequences. It cannot do these two things at the same time. Although, it can play the MIDI sequences and record the audio input from the steered MIDI instruments at once.

Is the Tracker able to import and export classic mod files?

Note: The .mod file import and .it export support have been discontinued as of Tracker Firmware update 1.7. Polyend Tracker is able to import/export classic tracker project files with their basic properties (samples/instruments, notes/patterns, song structure, and volume info). Open .mod/.it (many other classic tracker project file formats like .xm/.s3m can be opened in the Schism Tracker or Milky Tracker and then converted and saved as .it and so imported to Polyend Tracker). It allows you t...

Can Polyend Tracker export audio files?

Yes, you can render Song, Song stems, Pattern, Pattern stems directly to the SD memory card. While rendering stems, the Tracker exports 8 mono track files, 2 send Fx (Delay, Reverb) mono track and the master stereo mix track. The master audio output is rendered into a single stereo file. Rendered stems are PCM .wav audio files with a sampling rate of 44100Hz/16bit. The volume of separate rendered stems files can be set in the Master 2/3 section. The rendered master track volume is being set in ...

Can the Tracker's MIDI output serve as a MIDI thru?

Yes, the Tracker can be used this way, the external controller can operate an external synth later in the chain, you just need to select the MIDI channel via Tracker's Instruments menu.

Is the Polyend Tracker Main output mono or stereophonic?

It is a stereo. The Tracker internal sound engine is using monophonic samples and convert stereo samples to mono. But the Main/headphones output is in stereo (set the internal L/R channel panning for spatial effect).

What sample rates and audio file formats is Tracker working with?

Polyend Tracker works with uncompressed PCM wave files only. Tracker's sampling and internal audio processing rate is 44.1 kHz (16, 24 and float 32 bit). All other WAV files with different properties are being converted to supported 44.1kHz 16bit mono PCM files automatically. Stereo .wav files will be converted to mono automatically.

Are Tracker silicone grid pads velocity sensitive?

No, they are not velocity-sensitive, but very comfy :)

Can I set the MIDI latency compensation for the MIDI input/output in the Polyend Tracker?

Yes, you can set both: - Set the Clock sync delay in the Config menu to compensate for the latency of the incoming sync signal. Works with "Clock in" set to MIDI input jack or USB. - The MIDI output latency compensation setting is available from the step MIDI Instrument Parameter screen as the Offset.

Can Polyend Tracker send out MIDI program change messages?

Yes, the Polyend Tracker allows you to send out MIDI program change communication using a MIDI step and its properties. The MIDI PC communication is being sent right before the MIDI notes. There's a very small gap between. If there's a need, try setting the PC change on a step before. The last step of the previous pattern. If this solution would be sending the PC change too early, then you can try using the micro move step fx on that particular step. This way, you should be able to match the us...

What are the available Tracker controls, can I control it with computer keyboard?

No, you can't connect a computer keyboard to the PT :) But there's no need to. It's equipped with dedicated controls for fast action programming. Polyend Tracker’s user interface offers different types of controls that can all be used alternatively to navigate and operate the instrument. Most of the values/data input in the Tracker is done by using the silicone grid pads, aluminium jog-wheel, the dedicated mechanical function keys and the display corresponding screen keys. In most scenarios, the...

What are the Polyend Tracker's shortcuts?

While most of the Polyend Tracker functionalities are rather self-explanatory (just look at the scheme and key names), there are some tricks and shortcuts implemented to speed up the composition process which might not be so obvious at first glance. Most sections are using shortcuts. Itʼs good to master them to compose music in a fast and easy manner. Shortcuts apply in similar ways in different sections of the Tracker and are mentioned in these particular sections of the manual, but few are wo...

Does the Tracker's FM radio need an antenna?

Whatever you hook to Output jack port becomes the antenna. From our experience - straight cables work better than the spring ones.

Can I change the FM radio region in the Tracker?

Yes, the available regions are – Europe, US, Australia,

Is there a way to make screenshot of the Tracker’s screen?

Yes, press Shift+on/off button to take a screenshot.

Is there a limit of displayed projects in the Tracker?

Yes, the project list displayed in the device is limited to 100 folders. Also, the Tracker won't display project subfolders. You may like to use your computer and sort the projects you're currently working on.

Are all the Tracker's track length and timing scales the same?

Yes, exactly the same as in classic trackers.

How many grains does the Tracker's granular synth run?

Just one - this is kinda limited granular but still very playable we think.

What's included in the Tracker's original box set?

Polyend Tracker onboard original accessories: - USB-A power adapter (with different standard plugs set), - USB-C cable (2 m), - Audio 3.5 mm jack to 2x 6.3 mm jack adapter, - MIDI 3.5 mm jack to MIDI DIN adapter (TRS type B), - 16GB Micro SD Card, - Micro SD to USB-A dongle adapter, - Warranty and manual information card, - Dust cloth (only in the first batch, not added anymore).

What is the Tracker internal PPQN resolution?

Its internal PPQN resolution is 192.

What type of 3,5mm jack to MIDI DIN adapter Tracker use?

The tracker needs 3,5mm jack to MIDI DIN TRS type B adapter. It's included in the kit. But if you'd need another one, that's what you need.

Is the Polyend Tracker able to import/export MIDI files?

No, such function is not available nor intended in PT.

Is it possible to play Tracker instruments live from the pads while the sequencer is running?

Yes, this is possible, as long as at least one of the 8 tracks is not occupied.

Is the Tracker aliasing the sample playback on pitch changes?

Polyend Tracker has an anti-aliasing functionality implemented for the samples used in all the play modes. You can toggle it on/off in the Config menu.

Are the onboard sample libraries compatible with other instruments?

Yes, of course. These are regular wave files. The Tracker's Sample license can be found here (https://help.polyend.com/569681-Under-what-license-can-original-sample-sounds-from-Polyend-Tracker-be-used-and-reproduced-by-its-users).

Does the Tracker comes with any onboard sample packs?

Yes, there's almost 4k of original samples onboard, prepared by various artists and sample makers. There are also over 20 demo projects.

What is the Tracker sampling memory time?

The per-project sample pool time is 133 sec (or twice more when using the low-quality sample Import function). The longest internally recorded sample time is around 45 seconds. The originally included SD card capacity is 16 GB.

How do I copy my samples to the Tracker's SD card?

Please use the SD card USB dongle adapter for transferring the files.

Can audio be passed through from line in straight to output in Tracker?

Yes, the Line Input can be used for connecting external gear and to monitor stereo audio signals in real-time. The audio signal is even passed through the built-in EQ, Limiter, and Stereo Widener, Delay, and Reverb to create a well-balanced polished sound on Tracker's output. Although the line input passthrough allows live stereo monitoring, yet when you are recording audio from the line input it will automatically get converted to a mono audio file. The audio input is offering an L/R mono choi...

Is it possible to record or automate the Performance mode actions to the sequencer?

No this is not possible nor ever intended. Performance mode is made for "live on the fly" performance use.

Is time stretching available in the Tracker?

Yes, there are two types of Time-stretch effects available in the Sample Editor section (Beat & Note). Using PT you can also do it old-school way - granular with an envelope on position. Limits force creativity ;)

Will the Tracker convert the stereo samples to mono?

Yes, it will automatically convert stereo samples to mono when loading them to the sample pool.

Is it possible to resample the Tracker's audio output?

No, this is not possible. Tracker can't play its patterns and record audio at the same time due to its hardware limitations. It's not a matter of a firmware update. Such functionality was not really intended in a Polyend Tracker, trackers were not loopers, audio loop players nor audio recorders. Their workflow is based on short samples mostly. One can use the "render selection" function in order to bounce steps or selections of steps from one or more tracks at the same time to a single audio fi...

Can the Tracker be used with headphones?

Yes, of course. The main stereo audio 3.5mm output is a line/headphones combo port (adapter to 1/4” jack is included in the kit). Headphone Output specs: - Output level: 17,6 dBm (when 16 Ω Load) - SNR: 98 dB

What are the realtime audio effects available in the Tracker?

A high-quality stereo delay, overdrive, bit crusher and reverb (based on the Mutable Instruments Clouds algorithm) are all available onboard. The master section also offers a built-in limiter with a sidechain function, stereo widener, and a 5-band master EQ.

Can I use the Media Transfer Protocol (MTP) to copy files on the SD card using direct connection between the Tracker and my computer?

No. This functionality was causing issues with corrupt files and is for now turned off (since the 1.4 firmware update). Apologies for the inconvenience.

How do you create triplets on the Polyend Tracker?

Use Roll Step Fx on settings 1, 2 m40, 3 m75 give you triplets over a bar. Use R3 for fast triplets per note. With T1 is a quarter note then: T2= sextuplets (or 2x16th triplets) T3= quintuplets (dubious) T4=septuplets