Understanding Parameters

Parameters control and modify the sounds generated or modulated by machines. The function of each parameter is unique to the machine it is being used in, and may range from a simple pan control of an effect, to the millisecond-accurate ADSR Release of a complex synthesizer. In short, a parameter can control any aspect of the machine. Parameters come in all sizes, and thus have many different names and units. The designation of these is completely up to the creator of the machine. Most machines indicate the unit which the current parameter uses on the far left of the parameter dialog windows, as well as in the status bar of the Pattern Editor. Many times this is in ticks (the native unit of Buzz), milliseconds, seconds, a percentage, or a simple integer value. In some cases parameter units go unmarked. Tip: A slightly longer description of a parameter may be found in the lower status bar of the pattern view, as the cursor is moved over each individual column (parameter).