Expression maps - are they worth it?

[richardjenkins]

I'm beginning to wonder whether the Cubase (or any) expression maps are worth using, or perhaps I don't understand them properly.

For example, if I choose a Legato articulation in Cubase, I would have to have at least a patch approximating to a legato patch actually loaded for it to make any sense.

Why isn't there some sort of communication mechanism from VST instrument back to Cubase to let it know what's actually available - i.e. what patches are loaded and therefore possible? And tell it what key code to use to activate it (or, instead of a code, just name it), rather having to rely on complicated maps.  Cubase could then display only the possible articulations for the loaded patches.

Regards Richard.

[andi]

Hello Richard!

The Cubase Expression Maps, that are available on our website, are made for VI or Synchron Player presets that include all the articulations listed in the Expression Map. Only a few Expression Maps that are made for a bigger number of different instruments can include articulations that are not available for all instruments.

If you are unsure which Expression Map works with which preset, you can look it up in the pdfs that come with the Expression Maps.

Best regards,
Andi

[agitato]

Hi Andi,

I had a related question.

Will the cubase VSL expression maps respond to notations in the Cubase score editor, like hairpin/fp, pp etc., for dynamics and articulations such as slurs or sfz etc.,?  

I hope my question makes sense.

Thanks

Anand

[andi]

Hello Anand!

Our Cubase Expression Maps work with the Score Editor as well. Please note that only the notation marks listed in the Score Editor under "Expression Map" will work though.

Best regards,
Andi

[agitato]

Thank you Andi!