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 In case you wonder why we paused making new videos for a while, this is why: We are nearing completion of the next Synfire Pro update, which will be a big step towards a more integrated, simplified and intuitive user interface. We integrated the progression editor, harmonizer and a simple mixer console right into the arrange window. Although not a pure single-window layout, the most frequently used features are now easily accessible from within the arrange view, keeping your desktop and head clear. 

A number of other small improvements will also add to a better overall user experience and help avoid confusion. Future development will further build on the foundation we laid so far, integrating even more features into a slick, simplified user interface. 

To be honest, I have never been quite happy with the previous layout and am really glad we made this move now. This frees our minds for the next important things to come. 

Instrument Sheet

This view is now on the first of the four new tabs, placed next to the tool bar. The tool bar is always visible for all tabs.

Progression Editor

By switching to this tab, you can edit the progression of the currently selected container. While the editor is open, you can select different containers, of course. You can drag the progression or portions thereof to any container.

The circle of fiths, context information and keyboard widgets are integrated with this tab, so you don't have to open them separately (although you can). Double-clicking on a key in the circle opens a palette. The "Back" button has moved to the palette window.

Harmonizer

As with the progression editor, you can switch containers while you work on the harmonizer.

Mixer

This new feature adopts a successful detail from HN2 and extends it to suit the special requirements of Synfire Pro. The mixer tab provides an overview of all used instruments and their sound assigments. Instruments are grouped by devices and colored by type. This helps you quickly grasp the physical structure of your rack. Since the layout automatically updates while you edit an assignment, you will more easily understand how sound management works.

A double-click on a parameter LED opens a vector editor below the console where you can edit "mixer automation" graphically. The mixer currently offers typical mixing parameters only (Volume, Pan, Pause, etc). In the future, we may add an option to include or exclude any parameter via a menu. This would be most useful for custom-defined CCs probably.

Availability

There are a few things left that need more testing and polishing. We expect the update to become available for download during the next week.