Polyend Tracker users have a substantial new firmware update to dig into with the release of the Tracker Community Edition (CE) 1.0.0. The community-developed firmware adds new synthesis engines, customizable effects, expanded modulation, and a host of workflow improvements across the Original Tracker, Tracker+, and Tracker Mini.
Tracker+ and Tracker Mini users get access to an Open Synth SDK, which allows the community to develop additional synthesizer engines. The first additions are CHIP and DIRT, the latter a wave-shaping and distortion synth. All three devices also receive a modular sample editor effect and generator system, supporting up to 128 installed plugins with as many as 12 parameters each. Six reference plugins are included, covering tools like stereo delay, multi-mode filtering, and kick generation.
Another major addition is wavetable envelope and LFO modulation across seven instrument parameters, including volume, panning, cutoff, wavetable position, granular position, granular length, and finetune. Users can also load their own wavetable shapes, while new step effects provide additional control over wavetable envelopes and granular length.
The update also introduces hybrid SD card sample streaming for longer samples, reducing sample RAM usage by streaming audio directly from the card. Performance Mode now allows users to toggle between Sample Tracks and MIDI/Synth Tracks, while Slice and Beat Slice instruments gain a Play Thru option.
There are plenty of smaller but meaningful improvements, too. Dedicated Micro-move and Volume columns free up both pattern effect slots, Chance conditions gain additional sequencing options, and users can install custom color themes and fonts. The firmware also improves live recording, MIDI clock stability, audio rendering, project loading and saving, and real-time audio performance.
