Working with automation or MPE lines, using modifiers to lock breakpoints along axis would improve the workflow. Most of time one hand is on keyboard for modifiers. So there is no need for extra, unnecessary movement, which can be more efficient than existing ways.
Suggested Behaviour
- While moving breakpoints, holding
Ctrllocks horizontally, holdingAltlocks vertically.
Bitwig uses Ctrl for horizontal zoom and Alt for vertical zoom, so it makes sense.
Shift can be combined for finer adjustment (vertically) or for disabling snap (horizontally).
Alternative Behaviour
- While moving breakpoints, holding
Ctrllocks axis. - It can lock either horizontally or vertically depending on mouse movement.
Studio One and Live works in this way.
What problem(s) would this feature resolve?
While editing automation or expressions, currently there is no efficient way to move breakpoints either horizontally or vertically.
- Using Inspector panel: mouse have to move back and forth between editor panel and inspector.
- Using keyboard shortcuts: It’s not as precise as mouse, and the default shortcut requires two hands on keyboard.
How does this feature fit in Bitwig as a product?
It improves productivity.
Is there already an alternative way to achieve this on Bitwig?
There isn’t exact same feature but one can achieve the same result with inspector panel or keyboard shortucts.
Could it be implemented using Bitwig components or APIs, without Bitwig team’s support?
No
Could it be provided by a VST or something else reasonably integrated with Bitwig?
No
Are there other products that offer this feature?
Yes. Many other DAWs provide a way for locking axis while editing breakpoints. (FL Studio, Studio One, Ableton, Logic)