Settings
Global Settings
Reliq features a set of Global Settings that can be defined and edited from any page. These settings are saved and recalled along with the project, ensuring that key configurations remain consistent between sessions.
BPM
The BPM (Beats Per Minute) setting controls the global tempo of the project, with values ranging from 30 to 250 BPM. While BPM is a global project parameter, individual tracks can be adjusted to multiples of the defined BPM using the Multiplier Track Settings.
The current BPM is displayed in the bottom-left corner of the screen and can be modified from any page by rotating the BPM encoder , which is located on the top-left of the device. Although BPM operates globally across the project, it can be overridden on a per Song Block basis, allowing specific song blocks to have their own BPM settings.
Action Notifications
For all global actions performed in Reliq, a notification will appear on the middle bottom of display to confirm the action. This notification will remain visible for a few seconds before disappearing. Notifications will appear for the following global actions: - Project Saved: Indicates that the current project has been successfully saved. - Project Loaded: Indicates that the selected project has been successfully loaded. - Project Deleted: Indicates that the selected project has been successfully deleted.
Status Bar Indicators
On the bottom left corner of the display, the Status Bar provides real-time information about the current project. The status bar displays the following information: - Playing Status: Indicates whether the project is currently playing, stopped or recording. - BPM: The current tempo of the project, displayed in beats per minute. - Breakout Module Status: Indicates whether the Breakout Module is connected and active. - Current Mode: Displays the current mode of Reliq, which can be either Follow Mode or Edit Mode.
Reliq Modes
Reliq operates in two primary modes: Follow Mode and Edit Mode. These modes define how actions are executed and how the interface responds during different workflows.
Follow Mode
This is the default operating mode. In this mode, all actions across pages are performed in real-time. The sequencer cursor continuously follows the current position of the sequence, and both the grid pads and display update in real-time to reflect changes.
In the Clip, LFO, and Envelope pages, any clip or slot selected in Follow Mode is added to the End Of Bar (EOB) queue and triggered at the end of the current bar. In the Matrix and Mix pages, the display and grid pads update as the sequencer cursor moves, showing real-time changes as new routings are activated.
Edit Mode
Edit Mode provides a non-real-time workflow, allowing detailed adjustments without the need to follow the active sequencer position. In this mode, the sequencer cursor does not move, and the grid pads and display remain static, enabling editing without the constraints of real-time sequencing.
In the Sequencer Page, the sequencer cursor is shown only if it is within the current view. If the cursor is outside the current sheet, it is hidden from view. In the Clip, LFO, and Envelope pages, selecting a Clip or Slot in Edit Mode does not add it to the End Of Bar (EOB) but instead prepares it for modification. In the Matrix and Mix pages, selecting routings in Edit Mode opens them for editing without triggering the routing or making real-time changes. When edit mode is active the selected Clip, Slot or routing is highlighted in pink.
Switching between Follow Mode and Edit Mode is done by pressing the BPM encoder . In Edit Mode, the encoder illuminates in white, while in Follow Mode, it lights up blue. When recording is active, the encoder blinks according to the current tempo, displaying the color of the active mode.
Syncing External Gear
Reliq functions as a high-resolution Master Clock, capable of controlling, synchronizing, and automating external gear with precision. This feature ensures that MIDI and Analog Clocks are sent accurately, regardless of the equipment being used.
MIDI Clock and Analog Clock settings are configurable per project and can be saved and recalled along with the project settings. Reliq’s design currently prioritizes Master Clock functionality and does not support clock-following via standard 24 PPQN MIDI Clock. External synchronization can be achieved through the U-SYNC feature, allowing Reliq to follow an external clock from a connected DAW. Clock settings for both MIDI and analog devices are accessed through the Settings Page, where project-specific adjustments can be made.
Project Settings
Project management in Reliq is handled through the Project Page, which provides control over key project settings, including the ability to save, load, and name projects. A built-in autosave feature automatically preserves the current project state in the event of power loss or unexpected shutdown. The autosave function can be enabled or disabled from the Project Settings Page.
Project Settings Interface Overview
The Project Page displays essential project information. All project-related options are shown at the top of the display.
In the middle of the display, a project menu allows a project to be selected using the Encoders above the project list. The currently selected project is highlighted in white, and the active project is displayed in the bottom bar. Reliq has the capacity to store several thousand projects, which are saved directly to the device memory. Projects can also be backed up or restored through the Reliq Companion Software. BETA
Saving a Project
The loaded project can be saved by pressing the SAVE Button or by clicking the encoder above the SAVE label. If no project is loaded, a new project is created and saved as new.
Projects can also be saved from any page by pressing the SAVE Button .
To save the current project as a new project, press the encoder above the SAVE AS NEW label .
Project Name
Project names can be defined during the SAVE AS NEW process. The virtual keyboard will appear on the display, allowing the project name to be entered using the grid as a keyboard. The project name can be up to 16 characters long and can include letters, numbers, and special characters.
Note
Future updates to the Reliq iOS application and Reliq Companion Software will allow project names and settings to be managed wirelessly. More details on this feature will be included in future updates to this chapter.
Loading a Project
Pressing the encoder above the LOAD label loads the selected project. If the project is already loaded, pressing the encoder will reload the project. Please note that reloading a project will overwrite any unsaved changes.
Creating a New Project
To create a new project, select the New Project label at the top of the project list and press the encoder above the LOAD label. This action will create a new project with default sequence content. The new project is not saved yet, which you can notice from the name displayed in the project label in the bottom bar.
When a new project is created, it will inherit the global settings from the previously loaded project. This includes the current BPM, as well as all parameters in the Settings Page, such as clock configuration, MIDI resolution, and brightness.
Please remember to save the currently loaded project before creating a new one if needed.
Deleting a Project
To delete a project, select the project you wish to delete using the Encoder. Once the project is selected, press the encoder above the DELETE label. A confirmation dialog will appear on the display. Confirm the deletion by pressing the encoder above the CONFIRM label. The selected project will be permanently deleted from the device memory.
Note
WARNING Deleted projects cannot be recovered!
Autoload Behavior
The AUTOLOAD parameter defines how Reliq handles projects when powering on:
When set to Clean Project, Reliq will not autosave the current temporary state. Upon boot, a new clean project will be created automatically.
When set to Load Last Project, Reliq will autosave the current temporary state and reload the last active project upon boot.
When Load Last Project is active, the autosave only preserves the working memory and does not overwrite the originally loaded project file. The project must still be saved manually by pressing the SAVE button if you wish to permanently store changes.
Recovery Mode
If for any reason Reliq has a problem during boot in loading the last project, it is possible to skip the auto-load by pressing and holding SHIFT just after the splash-screen appears. The button can be released when the Intro animation ends. This will temporarily skip loading the last project and load a clean project.
Project Categories
Each project can be assigned to a category, which can be selected from the Category menu. To filter projects by category, rotate the encoder above the filter label to select the desired category.
Device Settings
The Settings Page provides access to various global project settings that can be modified according to the needs of the current workflow. These settings allow for fine-tuning of MIDI configurations, breakout module options, sequencer defaults, and display settings.
To access the Settings Page, the PAGE Button located beneath the SETTINGS label on the display should be pressed. Upon entering the Settings Page, the available setting menus are displayed at the top of the screen. Each menu can be accessed by pressing the encoder above the desired menu. When a menu is selected, it is highlighted in white, and the corresponding settings are shown on the display.
MIDI Settings
MIDI Settings
The MIDI Settings menu allows for configuring all MIDI-related parameters, including clock outputs, event resolutions, and external control options:
MIDI Resolution: Adjusts the PPQN (Pulses Per Quarter Note) resolution for Reliq’s MIDI event output, with options ranging from 24 to 192 PPQN. This setting controls how frequently event data is sent via MIDI, but does not affect the MIDI Clock itself. The MIDI Clock resolution remains fixed at 24 PPQN, as defined by the official MIDI standard.
Reliq MIDI Overdrive: When set to OFF, MIDI note and CC messages are sent at the user-selected MIDI Resolution. When ON, messages are sent at 192 PPQN, allowing for finer timing resolution independently of the clock.
Clock Out USB MIDI: Enables or disables MIDI Clock output via the USB MIDI port. When enabled, Reliq will send a MIDI Clock signal to any device connected via USB MIDI.
Clock Out MIDI OUT 1: Enables or disables MIDI Clock output via the MIDI OUT 1 port.
Clock Out MIDI OUT 2: Enables or disables MIDI Clock output via the MIDI OUT 2 port.
Clock Out MIDI OUT 3: Enables or disables MIDI Clock output via the MIDI OUT 3 port.
External Control Device: When enabled, Reliq allows a MIDI device connected to the USB Host port to act as an external controller. This enables incoming MIDI messages to control various parameters of Reliq in real time. (A detailed explanation of this feature is provided in the External Control Device sub-section later in this chapter.)
Reliq MIDI Overdrive Explained
The Reliq MIDI Overdrive setting is designed for different use cases. When Reliq is being used to clock and send MIDI events to an external device that records these events, the Overdrive setting should be OFF, ensuring that MIDI events are sent at the selected MIDI Resolution PPQN resolution.
However, if Reliq is used to clock and send notes or CC messages without the intention of recording these events on the external device, Overdrive can be set to ON. This allows the MIDI events to be sent at the highest possible resolution, independent of the selected MIDI Resolution PPQN.
Breakout Module Settings
The Breakout Module Settings menu provides control over the configuration of the Breakout Module clock, reset, and gate outputs:
Clock Settings: Defines the clock output resolution of the Breakout Module from 1 bar to 32nd division.
Reset Settings: Configures the behavior of the Reset Output. It can be set to RUN to remain high while Reliq is playing or to RESET to send a reset signal at the start of playback.
Gate Settings: Sets the voltage range of the gate outputs. The range can be configured between 0-5V or 0-10V.
Additional Notes on Clock Outputs
The Breakout Module includes a single Clock Output. If additional clock outputs are required, a sequencer track with its output set to CV can be repurposed as a clock by utilizing the gate output of that track.
Sequencer Settings
The Sequencer Settings menu defines the default values for notes, velocity, and step length within the sequencer:
Default Note: Specifies the default note value, which can be set anywhere from C-2 to G8.
Device Settings
The Device Settings menu allows for adjustment of the display and led brightness, with a range from MIN to MAX. This setting ensures that the display and leds can be adapted to different lighting conditions. In the Device Settings menu, the Serial Number and Rlx version are displayed at the bottom of the screen. The Serial Number is unique to each device and is used for warranty and support purposes. The Rlx version indicates the current Operating System version installed on the device.
External Control Device
From the External Control Device menu in the SETTINGS, MIDI page, any USB MIDI device connected to the USB-HOST port can be selected to control Reliq externally.
A detailed list of external control mappings is provided below:
Page | Type | Channel | Note/CC Number | Value / Velocity Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
MATRIX | Note | 11 | (Note Number 0–127) | Note-on toggles connection (0–127) |
MATRIX | Note | 12 | (Note Number 0–127) | Note-on toggles connection (128–255) |
MATRIX | CC | 2 | CC 50 | Routing index of current page (0-15) |
MATRIX | CC | 2 | CC 14 | Page routing view (0–3) |
MIXER | CC | Fader Index | CC 15 | Input fader level (0–127) |
MIXER | CC | Fader Index | CC 16 | Output fader level (0–127) |
SEQUENCER | CC | Track Index | CC 17 | Step count (0–127) |
SEQUENCER | CC | Track Index | CC 18 | Direction (0–127) |
SEQUENCER | CC | Track Index | CC 19 | Speed (0–127) |
SEQUENCER | CC | Track Index | CC 20 | Pitch offset (0–127) |
SEQUENCER | CC | Track Index | CC 21 | Velocity offset (0–127) |
SEQUENCER | CC | Track Index | CC 22 | Duration offset (0–127) |
SEQUENCER | CC | Track Index | CC 23 | Probability offset (0–127) |
SEQUENCER | CC | Track Index | CC 24 | Swing amount (0–127) |
SEQUENCER | CC | Track Index | CC 25 | Rotate (0–127) |
SEQUENCER | CC | Track Index | CC 26 | Events (0–127) |
MATRIX SEQUENCER | CC | 2 | CC 45 | Step count (0–127) |
MATRIX SEQUENCER | CC | 2 | CC 46 | Direction (0–127) |
MATRIX SEQUENCER | CC | 2 | CC 47 | Speed (0–127) |
MATRIX SEQUENCER | CC | 2 | CC 48 | Probability offset (0-127) |
MATRIX SEQUENCER | CC | 2 | CC 49 | Trigger clip on current page (0–15) |
CLIP | CC | Track Index | CC 27 | Trigger clip on current page (0–15) |
CLIP | CC | 1 | CC 28 | Change page view (0–15) |
KEYS | CC | 1 | CC 29 | Overdub (0 = off, >63 = on) |
KEYS | CC | 1 | CC 30 | Quantize (0–127) |
LFO | CC | Track Index | CC 31 | Wave (0–127) |
LFO | CC | Track Index | CC 32 | Rate / Frequency (0-127) |
LFO | CC | Track Index | CC 33 | Depth/Amplitude (0–127) |
LFO | CC | Track Index | CC 34 | Sync (0) or Free Mode (>63) |
LFO | CC | Track Index | CC 35 | Trigger Slot on current page (0–16) |
LFO | CC | 1 | CC 36 | Change page view (0–7) |
ENVELOPE | CC | Track Index | CC 37 | Amplitude (0–127) |
ENVELOPE | CC | Track Index | CC 38 | Shape (0 = linear, >63 = exponential) |
ENVELOPE | CC | Track Index | CC 39 | Attack (0–127) |
ENVELOPE | CC | Track Index | CC 40 | Decay (0–127) |
ENVELOPE | CC | Track Index | CC 41 | Sustain (0–127) |
ENVELOPE | CC | Track Index | CC 42 | Release (0–127) |
ENVELOPE | CC | Track Index | CC 43 | Trigger slot on current page (0–16) |
ENVELOPE | CC | 1 | CC 44 | Change page view (0–7) |
SONG | Note | 13 | (Note Number 0–127) | Note-on triggers song block 0-127 |
SONG | Note | 14 | (Note Number 0–127) | Note-on triggers song block 128-255 |
GLOBAL | MIDI Message | FA (250) / FC (252) | Play / Stop | |
GLOBAL | CC | 0 | CC 51 | Rec toggle (>63 = Toggle Rec) |
Updating Rlx
Reliq software (RLX) can be updated using the Reliq Companion Software, which is available for download for Intel Mac, Apple Silicon Mac, and Windows. The software provides an intuitive interface for updating both the Reliq device and its Breakout Module, ensuring that the latest features and improvements are applied.
Update Process
To update Reliq through the Reliq Companion Software (for now called Reliq Updater), the following steps should be followed:
Connect the USB-C to USB-A Reliq cable to the HOST port of Reliq (USB-C) and to the computer (USB-A).
Ensure that the Breakout Module is connected to Reliq by using the USB-C to USB-C cable from the Module Output on Reliq to the USB-C port on the Breakout Module.
Make sure that the No cables are connected to the USB MIDI port of Reliq.
In the software, click the Update Button to begin the update process.
The Reliq Companion Software will check for the latest Operating System version and prompt for an update if a new version is available.
To start the update, click the Update Button again. The software will update Reliq and the Breakout Module. The update process may take a few minutes, after which Reliq will automatically reboot to complete the installation.
Note
If the Update process fails during the File Transfer step, unplug all other USB devices from your computer and try again.
Backing Up and Restoring Projects BETA
Reliq projects can be backed up and restored through the Reliq Companion Software, ensuring that project data is secure and easily recoverable. The following steps outline the backup and restoration processes.
Backing Up Projects
Connect the USB-C to USB-A Reliq cable to the HOST port of Reliq (USB-C) and to the computer (USB-A).
Open the Reliq Companion Software by clicking on the Reliq Icon in the taskbar.
Select the Backup Button from the software interface.
The software will prompt for a location to save the backup file on the computer.
Select the desired location and confirm by clicking the Save Button.
The Reliq Companion Software will then save the backup file to the chosen location.
Restoring Projects
Connect the USB-C to USB-A Reliq cable to the HOST port of Reliq (USB-C) and to the computer (USB-A).
Open the Reliq Companion Software from the taskbar by clicking the Reliq Icon.
Click the Restore Button from the software interface.
A prompt will appear to select the backup file for restoration.
Choose the desired backup file and click the Open Button to begin the restoration process.
U-SYNC BETA
Overview
U-SYNC is a synchronization protocol developed by Reliq Instruments in collaboration with Sim’n Tonic. It is designed to provide sample-accurate clock synchronization between computers and hardware sequencers through a single USB-C connection. By using the DAW clock as the master, U-SYNC sends a highly precise clock to Reliq, ensuring tight synchronization between the DAW and hardware components.
In addition to clock signals, U-SYNC handles the transmission of start and stop commands, enabling the sequencer in Reliq to synchronize perfectly with the DAW’s transport controls. Reliq also follows the DAW’s transport location, ensuring that playback remains in sync at all times. The protocol extends beyond basic transport synchronization, providing Reliq with the DAW’s tempo and time signature information, which allows for seamless coordination of tempo-based and rhythmic elements within the project.
U-SYNC operates without occupying MIDI ports or audio interface inputs and outputs, and it introduces no additional latency to the DAW, maintaining optimal performance in both hardware and software environments.
Installation
U-SYNC is currently available for Mac OS, with a Windows version under development. Installation is handled through the Reliq Companion Software, which provides a simple and streamlined installation process for all components.
Once installed, U-SYNC enables direct synchronization between a DAW and Reliq, providing a transparent and efficient connection.
Using U-SYNC
U-SYNC consists of two components: an Audio Unit/VST3 plugin and a standalone daemon application.
Both the plugin and the daemon must be installed on the DAW computer to achieve proper synchronization. The daemon application runs in the background and can be accessed via the taskbar by selecting the Reliq Icon. This ensures constant connectivity and clock synchronization. For U-SYNC to function correctly, both the plugin and daemon must be active simultaneously. When operational, Reliq will synchronize to the DAW’s clock and respond to transport commands and tempo changes.
Supported DAWs
U-SYNC has been tested and confirmed to work with the following DAWs:
Ableton Live
Bitwig Studio
Logic Pro X
Cubase
Pro Tools
Reaper
Studio One
FL Studio
While U-SYNC is expected to function with any DAW that supports AU/VST3 plugins, it has not been tested on all available DAWs. In case any issues arise with DAWs not listed, support can be provided through u-sync@reliq-instruments.com.
Synchronization Process
The following steps outline the process for synchronizing Reliq to a DAW using U-SYNC:
Run the Reliq daemon application on the DAW computer. This can be set to run on startup for convenience. The daemon’s activity can be confirmed by locating the Reliq Icon in the taskbar.
Open the DAW and insert the Reliq plugin on any track. The plugin interface will display the connection status of U-SYNC, confirming that synchronization has been established.
Once connected, Reliq will synchronize with the DAW clock and follow the transport location, ensuring the sequencer remains aligned with the DAW at all times.
Reliq’s synchronization through U-SYNC ensures that the DAW clock, tempo, transport, and time signature are followed accurately, with no manual adjustment required once the connection is established.
Note
U-SYNC for Windows is currently under development and will be released in an upcoming update.
Note
The U-SYNC feature is still undergoing development and it is currently in BETA, and future updates to this chapter will provide additional functionality as the Reliq Companion Software evolves.
Reliq Companion Software BETA
The Reliq Companion Software is a comprehensive tool designed for managing Reliq projects and settings directly from a computer. It provides an intuitive interface for interacting with Reliq’s system, allowing for seamless integration between hardware and software. The Reliq Companion Software is available for Intel Mac, Apple Silicon Mac, and Windows and can be downloaded from the official Reliq Instruments website.
This software simplifies the management of several key functions, including project updates, backups, restoration, and synchronization between Reliq and various Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs).
Reliq Installer Components
During the installation process, the Reliq Companion Software includes the following components, which can be selected based on specific requirements:
Reliq USYNC Daemon BETA: Provides sample-accurate synchronization between Reliq and supported DAWs.
Reliq Update Software: Handles software updates for both Reliq and the Breakout Module.
Reliq Backup and Restore Software BETA: Facilitates project backups and restoration, ensuring project data security.
Reliq Plugin for DAWs BETA: Enables integration with DAWs, allowing Reliq to function as a control surface or synchronize with the DAW’s clock and transport.
Reliq Control Surface for DAWs BETA: Provides control surface functionality for various DAWs, streamlining performance and project management workflows.
Each of these components can be selected or deselected during installation, allowing for a customizable setup depending on the specific needs of the user.