How can I specify time in seconds for envelope settings in my synthesizers? Some envelopes use range 0-99 or other 0-127. And those synths with the same range eg. 0-127 differs in timing. Any good solution?
I own Novation UltraNova, Xio or Roland D110.

 

Please check the "The UltraNova Editor" where you can set better presets.
Editors for hardware synthesizers are usually easier to use.
https://fael-downloads-prod.focusri...65/ultranova-editor-librarian-user-guide2.pdf
https://fael-downloads-prod.focusri...tion/downloads/10524/ultranova-userguide2.pdf

There is an " Amp Envelope ", " Filter Envelope " and normal envelopes (ENV).

Amp Envelope --> Beginn with:

ATTACK 8 ( 10 - 20 )
DECAY 15 ( 5 - 75 )
SUSTAIN 100 ( 127 )
RELEASE 15 ( 30 )

Standard setting - starting point


Pad Sound


Short Sounds


Adjust by Ear and read up on it.

Spoiler: Intro to Synthesis Part 5: How to Use Amp Envelopes and Filter Envelopes | Reverb Learn To Play

Intro to Synthesis Part 5: How to Use Amp Envelopes and Filter Envelopes | Reverb Learn To Play

Spoiler: Model-specific solutions

Model-specific solutions

Novation UltraNova

The UltraNova uses a range of 0-127 for envelope settings.
The exact time values are not linearly distributed, but you can use the following guidelines:

0: approx. 1 ms
64: approx. 300 ms
127: approx. 20 seconds

Roland D110

Unfortunately, there are no direct time specifications for the Roland D110 in the manual. However, you can use the following method:
Set up a simple sound.

1. Set all envelope parameters to 0.
2. Incrementally increase the parameter you want to measure (e.g. Attack).
3. Record the sound and measure the time in your DAW.
4. Repeat this for different values to create a conversion table.

Novation X-Station (Xio)

Similar principles apply to the Novation X-Station (Xio) as to the UltraNova. However, the exact time values may vary slightly. Use the manual measurement method to get precise values.

Synth Basics • Episode 1 - Part 2

Practical tips

Create reference points: Measure the times for some key values (e.g. 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) and interpolate between them.
Ear training: Over time, you will develop a feeling for how the settings sound, which makes exact timing less important.

Consistency: Use the same measurement method for all your synths to get comparable results.
Note that absolute precision is often less important than the sonic result with synth envelopes.
Trust your ears and experiment to get the sound you want

 

Last edited: Mar 5, 2025

I think that the audio editor only can help.

 

Here are some gpt results for people to complain about, since the document attached is generically applicable to any envelope:


Most synthesizers allow you to specify envelope times (Attack, Decay, Release) in milliseconds (ms) or seconds (s). However, some synths use arbitrary values instead of direct time units. Here’s how you can specify time in seconds for your envelope settings:

1. Use a Synth That Displays Time in Seconds
Some synths, like Serum, Massive X, and Pigments, display envelope times in milliseconds or seconds. Simply adjust the envelope settings, and the values will be shown in time units.

2. Convert Arbitrary Values to Time Manually
If your synth doesn’t show times directly but instead uses a range (e.g., 0-127), you may need to:

• Check the manual: Many synths provide conversion formulas.
• Use trial and error: If 0 is instant and 127 is long, experiment by ear.
• Use DAW automation: Record envelope behavior and check how long it lasts.

3. Calculate Time Using BPM (If Needed)
If you want to sync envelope stages to the tempo:

• At 120 BPM (beats per minute):
  • 1 quarter note = 500ms
  • 1 eighth note = 250ms
  • 1 sixteenth note = 125ms
• Multiply/divide based on tempo and note length.

4. Use Modulation Sources (LFOs, Envelopes)
Some synths allow you to modulate envelopes using tempo-synced LFOs or time-based modulators, which can make precise time settings easier.

5. Use DAW’s Envelopes (If Synth Lacks Time Precision)
If the synth lacks exact time control, you can shape volume and filter envelopes in your DAW’s automation lanes instead.

Example below: This is the Modulator MidiFX plugin in Logic, with the Enveloper on the right side. The bottom right section is what Midi parameter (CC) it is routed to. Your DAW probably has one, depending on what DAW you use.

Most of the time, I think this is a better option to use unless you are putting the final touches on a synth part. Otherwise, when you change the synth plugin's patch/preset to a new one, or switch the synth entirely; you have to set it again. Of course, you could always just use some third party enveloper.

 

Last edited: Mar 6, 2025