BPM Counter

The BPM Counter is used to analyze the tempo of incoming audio in beats per minute (bpm). The detection circuit looks for any transients, also known as impulses, in the input signal. Transients are very fast, non-periodic sound events in the attack portion of the signal. The more obvious this impulse is, the easier it is for the BPM Counter to detect the tempo. As a result, percussive drum and instrumental rhythm parts, such as basslines, are suitable for tempo analysis. Pad sounds are a poor choice.

Figure. BPM Counter window.

The LED shows the current analysis status. If the LED is flashing, a tempo measurement is taking place. When the LED is continuously lit, analysis is complete, and the tempo is displayed. The measurement ranges from 80 to 160 beats per minute. The measured value is displayed with an accuracy of one decimal place. Click the LED to reset the BPM Counter.

Note: The BPM Counter also detects tempo variations in the signal and tries to analyze them accurately. If the LED starts flashing during playback, this indicates that the BPM Counter has detected a tempo that has deviated from the last received (or set) tempo. As soon as a new, constant tempo is recognized, the LED is solidly lit and the new tempo displayed.