The MKSynthInstrument Class

• An MKInstrument subclass that realizes MKNotes on the DSP.

• You specify which MKSynthPatch subclass to use with setSynthPatchClass:.

• Allocates patches based on noteTags of incoming MKNotes. Allocation can be done from a global or a local pool. If you send setSynthPatchCount:, the pool is local (MK_MANUALALLOC) and contains the number of patches specified. Otherwise, pool is global (MK_AUTOALLOC).

• Supports automatic preemption of the oldest running patch. You can subclass MKSynthInstrument and override one method to provide an alternative preemption strategy.

• Advantage of automatic mode is that there's never any wasted of patches.

• Advantage of manual mode is that important musical parts can be given precedence. (E.g. you can get around a screw case such as overlapping bass-line notes causing a disappearing melody.)

• In Scorefiles, the MKSynthPatch is specified in the part info's synthPatch: parameter. Manual mode is specified in the part info's synthPatchCount: parameter. Example:

  part p1; /* Scorefile excerpt*/ p1 synthPatch: "Pluck" synthPatchCount: 2;