Common tuning methods for software plugins

This page aims to explain the different common tuning methods you may encounter when using software plugins in a DAW, so you can be more informed of the differences between them. This page is currently a work in progress.

File import

Probably the most common method, typically for this method you would need to download a file such as from Scale Workshop (a great resource for creating these tuning files), and there would be a setting in your chosen plugin where you would be able to import the file. This will usually have to be done individually for each plugin instance.

.scl/.kbm file

.scl is the Scala file format, and it supports full-keyboard microtuning, meaning you will be able to store and use every kind of scale.

.tun file

.tun files are known as the Anamark tuning format. This file format also supports full-keyboard microtuning.

Kontakt Script

Kontakt has its own separate method for microtuning, and that is through its script editor. To use it for microtuning, you either have to import a Kontakt script, or use one of the preset Kontakt scripts and choose the settings of your liking.

Beware, the effectiveness of Kontakt's microtuning varies by the library, and not all libraries allow you to access the script editor.

MTS-ESP

MTS-ESP is also a common way of microtuning plugins. Typically you will have to open and retune a MTS-ESP source, which will automatically retune other plugins that are open and support MTS-ESP.