Using SynthEdit with a DAW

SynthEdit is a synthesizer editor, not a sequencer. To compose music, you’ll typically use it alongside a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) or sequencer.

Two Integration Methods

1. MIDI Files (Recommended)

Load a MIDI file directly into SynthEdit using the MIDI Player module:

1. Insert a MIDI Player module
2. Set its File Name property to your .mid file
3. Connect its MIDI output to your synth

Advantages:

• Rock-solid timing — no latency between the sequencer and SynthEdit
• Consistent playback results
• Works well with Render to Disk for offline bouncing

2. MIDI Loopback (Real-Time)

Use a virtual MIDI cable to route MIDI from your DAW into SynthEdit’s MIDI input in real time:

1. Install a MIDI loopback driver (virtual MIDI cable software)
2. Set your DAW’s MIDI output to the loopback port
3. Set SynthEdit’s MIDI In module to receive from the loopback port

Considerations:

• Subject to audio latency from your system’s buffer settings
• Minimize latency by using ASIO drivers and small buffer sizes
• Match sample rates between your DAW and SynthEdit

3. VST Plugin (Best Integration)

For the tightest integration, export your SynthEdit project as a VST plugin and load it directly in your DAW:

1. Design your synth in SynthEdit
2. Export as VST3 via File > Save As VST
3. Load the VST plugin in your DAW

This gives you full DAW automation, preset management, and seamless audio routing.

Performance Tips

• Use ASIO drivers for the lowest latency
• Match sample rates between SynthEdit and your DAW
• If your synth is too CPU-intensive for real-time playback, use Render to Disk to bounce audio offline
• Mute unused modules to free up CPU during playback

ASIO

ASIO (Audio Stream Input/Output) is a driver protocol by Steinberg that provides low-latency audio. Check your soundcard manufacturer’s website for ASIO drivers. ASIO significantly reduces the delay between playing a note and hearing the sound.