Preparing Samples for Polyend Tracker

The Polyend Tracker is a tracker-style groovebox with 8 tracks of sampling, synthesis, and granular processing. But here is the key constraint: every track plays mono samples. Here is how to prep your stereo library properly on macOS.

Sample Format Requirements

The Polyend Tracker expects samples in this format:

• Format: WAV (uncompressed)
• Channels: Mono only — stereo files are auto-downmixed
• Sample rate: 44.1 kHz native (48 kHz also supported)
• Bit depth: 16-bit
• Storage: Onboard storage + SD card

Why Convert to Mono Beforehand

The Tracker auto-downmixes stereo files when you load them, but you get no control over how the downmix happens. By converting on your Mac first with It's mono, yo!, you get:

1. Proper stereo summing: Both channels combined into one signal, preserving information from both sides.
2. Half the SD card usage: Mono WAVs are exactly 50% smaller — fit twice as many samples on your card.
3. Faster transfers: Smaller files copy faster over USB or to SD card.
4. Library matches hardware: What you preview in Finder sounds the same as on the Tracker.

How to Batch Convert for Polyend Tracker

Batch convert your sample packs in one go:

1. Download It's mono, yo! from the Mac App Store
2. Drag your stereo WAVs into the app (or a whole sample pack folder)
3. Set Output Settings to WAV / 16-bit / 44.1 kHz for Tracker native format
4. Pick an output folder (e.g. "Tracker Mono Samples")
5. Hit Convert, then copy the folder to your SD card

Polyend Tracker Prep Tips

• Organize before transferring: The Tracker browser is easier to navigate when samples are in well-named folders (Kicks, Snares, Hats, FX, etc.).
• Trim silence: The Tracker has limited per-pattern sample RAM. Pre-trimmed samples leave more headroom for granular processing.
• Pre-bake stereo width: If your stereo sample has chorus or wide reverb, mix it down to mono carefully in your DAW first to preserve the perceived width.
• 16-bit is fine: The Tracker's effects and granular engine sound great at 16-bit. Higher bit depths just take more storage.
• Tracker Mini works the same: Same format requirements, just with more storage.