GarageBand Sampler Guide

Overview

This tutorial explains how to use the Sampler feature in GarageBand for iPhone to record, edit, and play back custom audio samples, as well as integrate pre-existing sounds into music projects.

Accessing and Navigating the Sampler

• The Sampler is located in the keyboard section of the GarageBand sound browser.
• The interface resembles other keyboard-based touch instruments, with a playable keyboard and additional controls accessed via the dial icon.

Recording and Editing Samples

• Tap the big red button to start recording a sample; tap stop to finish.
• The recorded audio appears as a waveform, which can be trimmed by moving the arrows at the waveform's edges.
• Only the highlighted section between the arrows will play when a key is pressed.
• Adjust the sample’s pitch by using the “course tuning” dial in the details menu.

Recording Samples into Projects

• Press record at the top of the screen to add the sample performance to your project.
• Performances are recorded as MIDI, allowing timing corrections using quantization.

Adding and Manipulating More Sounds

• Additional sounds can be sampled, isolated, and pitched as desired.
• The reverse button can be used for effect enhancement.
• Adjust velocity to control the intensity of the sample without excessive screen tapping.
• Use the detect pitch option to help keep samples in tune.
• Animal or other unique sounds can be truncated and pitched down to create bass effects.

Using Pre-Existing and Imported Sounds

• Tap the triangle menu to access the sample library, featuring previous samples and Apple’s pre-recorded sounds.
• Import loops from the GarageBand Loop Library, files app, or music app (with restrictions on copyright and local storage).
• Edit imported sounds using the same tools described for original samples.
• Note that longer samples may not maintain their tempo when played at different pitches.

Recommendations / Advice

• Use quantization for timing corrections after recording samples as MIDI.
• Employ the detect pitch function if tuning issues arise with your samples.
• Adjust sample velocity for optimal responsiveness during live playback.

Questions / Follow-Ups

• Consider whether to use the GarageBand Sampler in upcoming music projects.
• Explore additional tutorials for further learning on GarageBand for iOS.