Topic: Sound Problem

Sorry if this has already been resolved somewhere. I couldn't find anything in the forums.

I'm using Pianoteq 3.6.5. I haven't used/upgraded it in a while.
Mac OS X 10.6.5, using the built-in sound card.

Any note I strike I'm getting random upper partials that "stick" and then suddenly cut out. It really sounds horrible--like a bug. This happens whether I cue from a midi keyboard or with the mouse.

Anyone else encounter this?

Thanks.

Re: Sound Problem

I should say also that it's the same for all bitrates and all presets. The fifth partial is particularly loud. It actually gets louder after I strike the key.

Re: Sound Problem

Hello Beansoaker,

I have not encountered what you have described, but that's not to say it doesn't exist.  By chance, can you record an audio example of what is occurring, and post it for us to hear, please?

Cheers,

Joe

Re: Sound Problem

OK, this is weird.

To record a sample, I routed Pianoteq to Soundflower and recorded. In the recording, the problem is gone!

If I route Soundflower to the headphones, the problem returns. It's like there's some kind of feedback loop. I guess there is something wrong with my sound card?

Re: Sound Problem

So I'm thinking the macbook soundcard is just crap. I've replaced the logic board and I've still had all sorts of problems, including a persistent snapping sound.

Has anyone used a Macbook with a DAC converter like this one:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00442...d_i=507846

Does it improve pianoteq sound and sound generally?

Re: Sound Problem

I've not used that converter, but I currently use a Focusrite Saffire 6 USB and really really like it. It does much more than just A/D and costs more, but not as much as you'd think. ($99 seems a bit steep for just A/D).

I'd not use my mac's internal card almost on principle but I've read that it's not terrible.

Re: Sound Problem

I've posted a recording of what Pianoteq sounds like coming out of the headphone jack of my Macbook Pro.
OS 10.6.5

Listen to the strange swell that happens after each attack. I don't think that's how it's supposed to sound, is it?

Re: Sound Problem

beansoaker wrote:

I've posted a recording of what Pianoteq sounds like coming out of the headphone jack of my Macbook Pro.
OS 10.6.5

Listen to the strange swell that happens after each attack. I don't think that's how it's supposed to sound, is it?

All I hear is the usual damping action on the lower strings. If you don't like the sound, go into Action and reduce Damping duration to your taste.

EDIT: By increasing the volume after each note, I now hear what you mean, and I don't get it with my setup so it may be your sound card after all. Sorry!

Last edited by Gilles (15-12-2010 20:02)

Re: Sound Problem

In case anyone is still interested. . .
This problem has mysteriously gone away.

Re: Sound Problem

I purchased the product above and now my Pianoteq sound and sound generally seems much better. One thing I've noticed is that "Multicore Processing" doesn't work on either of my Macbooks (one Pro, one white). It causes spikes and crackling out of nowhere. Now that I've turned that off, everything seems to work OK.