How to Effectively Use the Stock Arpeggiators in FL Studio

Arpeggios, or arps, are a quick way to generate melodic ideas from chords, creating repeating melodies from the chords in your song. FL Studio provides several tools to create arps from your chords: the stock arpeggiator in each channel’s settings, the piano roll arpeggiator accessed with Alt+A, and the Riff Machine, which includes an arp section.

Using the Channel Settings Arpeggiator

The channel settings arpeggiator is the most common method for creating arps. Here’s how to use it:

1. Access the Arpeggiator: Go to the wrench tool in the channel settings.
2. Arp Direction: Select the arrows to the right of the X to set the direction of the arp (up, down, up-down, etc.). The “?” option randomizes the direction.
3. Time Knob: Adjusts the speed of the arpeggio. Faster to the left, slower to the right. Sync it with your project’s tempo using a metronome or drum pattern.
4. Gate Knob: Controls note length. Move left for shorter, plucking notes—ideal for string instruments like guitars.
5. Range: Sets the number of octaves the arp spans. Typically, 1-3 octaves work best.
6. Repeat: Determines how often the arp pattern restarts. More complex chords may require higher repeat settings.
7. Slide: Blends notes into each other, working only with FL native instruments.
8. Chord Section: Use a single MIDI note to trigger arps based on selected chords or scales. Use single notes instead of chords here.

Using the Piano Roll Arpeggiator

The piano roll arpeggiator offers more flexibility:

1. Access the Arpeggiator: Press Alt+A in the piano roll.
2. Presets: Access a variety of arp presets via the folder icon or dropdown arrow. Changing presets alters the MIDI data in the piano roll.
3. Customization: Modify individual notes in the arp to add your style. Save new presets for future use.
4. Pattern Adjustments: Flip or alternate the arp pattern or range.
5. Sync Option: Snaps MIDI to the tempo, grid, or played chords.
6. Time Mul and Gate Knobs: Same function as the time and gate options in the channel rack arpeggiator.

Using the Riff Machine

The Riff Machine provides additional features:

1. Access the Riff Machine: Press Alt+E.
2. Levels Section: Adjust levels, randomize settings, and apply other Riff Machine features.

Combining Arpeggiators for Unique Results

o create unique arps, combine the channel settings arpeggiator with the piano roll arpeggiator:

1. Lay Down Chords: Input your chords in the piano roll.
2. Arp in Piano Roll: Use Alt+A to arpeggiate the chords.
3. Apply Channel Arp: Apply the arpeggiator in the channel settings.
4. Lengthen Notes: Use Ctrl+L to extend note ends to the next note’s beginning, enhancing the channel arpeggiator’s effect.

By experimenting with these tools and combinations, you can discover new and creative ways to use arpeggios in your tracks.