Tracker

Home > Tracker

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 is the online version using the "Download as PDF" text button at the top of the online manual version page. We're constantly updating the features on the instrument, so the manual is evolving too.

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.

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.

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 (find formatting tool here (https://www.sdcard.org/downloads/formatter/)). 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.

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.

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 there a global Swing function available in the Polyend Tracker?

At the moment (firmware v1.3.1) such a function is not available. Swing is being achieved in the PT by applying the micromove step Fx per step. A global swing option may, later on, be added with one of the coming firmware updates thou.

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 ...

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

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 MIDI input on the Medusa, - In the Tracker’s config menu locate the MIDI menu. Select th...

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: 29k - Input level: 8,2 dBu peak, - SNR: 90 dB, Microphone Input: - Microphone input impedance: 2,9k - Input level: 8,2 dBu peak, Audio Output Line Output: - Output impedance: 10k - Output level: 9 dBu peak, - SNR: 97 dB Headphone Output: - Output impedance: 16 - Output level: 17,6 dBm, - SNR: 98 dB

Turning on and off the device causes a mechanical clicking sound somewhere in the device (other than the click from the power button) is this normal?

This is normal behavior. That clicking is a relay/transmitter which is delaying the activation of the audio output of the Tracker unit so there's no loud pop noticeable on your speakers or headphones on the on/off toggle.

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, shat 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.

What Performance mode punch-in Fx are available?

Volume (from -100 to 100), Panning (from -100 to 100), Tune (from -48 to 48), 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 Forward (>>>>>) and Reverse (<<<<<), Volume LFO Speed (from -28 to +28), Panning LFO Speed (from ...

What are the available step Fx in the Tracker?

While in the Pattern sequencer view, press and hold one of the Fx keys to show the Fx list - using the screen button underneath - 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%. P - Panning, sets the Panning of an Instrument. From -50 (L) to +50 (R). M - Micro-tune, sets the micro-tuning adjustments. From -99 cent...

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.

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 copy the firmware files or any other files to the Tracker’s microSD card, use one of the following options: - Attached microSD card USB dongle, reader, - MTP (Media Transfer Protocol) with a direct connection to your computer, - Polyend Tool, (https://polyend.com/downloads/) 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 The ...

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

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). Export .it files that are compatible with the Renoise, Schism Tracker or Milky Tracker.

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 ...

Is the Polyend Tracker Main output mono or stereophonic?

It is 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).

Are Tracker silicone grid pads velocity sensitive?

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

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 dedicated Polyend Tracker travelling hard case?

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Does Tracker show up as a USB drive while connected to a computer?

No, it does not. However, starting with firmware 1.1.20 you can enable the Media Transfer Protocol to copy files from and to your SD card when the device is connected to your computer. You can do this via the Config screen, in the "File transfer" section. On Windows 10 you should see the device in Explorer. On macOS, you need to use the Android File Transfer (https://www.android.com/filetransfer/) application. If you're a Homebrew user, you can also install simple-mtpfs. If any of this is not ...

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 to create a well-balanced polished sound on Tracker's output.

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.

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.

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 impedance: 16k, - Output level: 17,6 dBm, - SNR: 98 dB,

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...

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.

Are there a Tracker manual or tutorials available?

Find both at polyend.com/help

What is the Polyend Tracker

The Polyend Tracker is a unique take on a retro form factor, aimed at artists who break patterns daily. Despite the retro look, it is equipped with powerful modern functionality, Fx, and a handful of forward-thinking creative tricks. The Polyend Tracker is an innovative, inspiring and immediate tool for making music. It functions as a sampler, a synthesizer, and equips you with a powerful and creative sequencer. Tracker has a large screen, ergonomic keyboard, and a big knob for fast and easy nav...

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