Cortex HDC3000 User manual

Table of Contents

Warnings and WEEE.............................................................................................2

Introduction..............................................................................................................3

Features...................................................................................................................4

Compatibility and Recommended Peripherals.................................................5

Device Requirements..............................................................................................5

Care and Maintenance.........................................................................................6

Operating Conditions............................................................................................6

Legal Info.................................................................................................................6

Setup Guide & Parts Diagram............................................................................7

Rear Panel & Connections...............................................................................7

Front Panel & Functions................................................................................8-9

Setup Guide

Using the HDC-3000..........................................................................................10

Preparing for Use..........................................................................................10

Selecting Devices & Database Creation...................................................11

Database Creation (continued)...................................................................12

File Browser & Search Options...................................................................13

Search Options (continued)...................................................................14-15

Info Button & Track Attributes......................................................................16

Play Mode & Single Auto Cue....................................................................17

Options and Shuffle Mode...........................................................................18

Waveform Display.........................................................................................19

Time Display and Pitch Control...................................................................20

Jog Mode and Playlist Support..................................................................21

Cue Points and Cue Memorization.............................................................22

Device Menu...................................................................................................23

Hot Cue Menu.................................................................................................24

Seamless Loop Menu.....................................................................................25

DSP Effects Menu...........................................................................................26

Sample Menu..................................................................................................27

Firmware Updates.........................................................................................28

Error

Messages/Troubleshooting..................................................................29

Technical Specifications......................................................................................30

Warranty Information.........................................................................................31

IMPORTANT WARNING & SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

PLEASE READ PRIOR TO OPERATING THIS DEVICE!

CAUTION: This product satisfies FCC regulations when shielded cables and connectors are used to connect the unit to other equipment. To prevent electromagnetic interference with electric appliances such as radios and televisions, use shielded cables and connectors for connections.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

READ INSTRUCTIONS: All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the product is operated.

RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS: The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.

HEED WARNINGS: All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.

FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS: All operating and use instructions should be followed.

CLEANING: The product should be cleaned only with a polishing cloth or a soft dry cloth. Never clean with furniture wax, benzine, insecticides or other volatile liquids since they may corrode the cabinet.

ATTACHMENTS: Do not use attachments not recommended by the product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.

WATER & MOISTURE: Do not use this product near water, for example, near a bathtub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet basement; or near a swimming pool; and the like.

ACCESSORIES: Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with the product. Any mounting of the product should follow the manufacturer's instructions, and should use a mounting accessory recommended by the manufacturer.

CART: A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn. S

VENTILATION: Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation and to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating, and these openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the manufacturer's instructions have been adhered to.

EE FIGURE A.

POWER SOURCES: This product should be operated

only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power company.

LOCATION: The appliance should be installed in a stable location.

NON-USE PERIODS: The power cord of the appliance should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time.

GROUNDING OR POLARIZATION:

- If this product is equipped with a polarized alternating current line plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other), it will fit into the outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.

- If this product is equipped with a three-wire grounding type plug, a plug having a third (grounding) pin, it will only fit into a grounding type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the grounding type plug.

POWER-CORD PROTECTION: Power-supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the product.

OUTDOOR ANTENNA GROUNDING: If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the product, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Article 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, provides information with regard to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna-discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode. S

LIGHTNING: For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges.

POWER LINES: An outside antenna system should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal.

OVERLOADING: Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.

OBJECT & LIQUID ENTRY: Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.

EE FIGURE B.

SERVICING: Do not attempt to service this product

yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

DAMAGE REQUIRING SERVICE: Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

- When the power-supply cord or plug is dam-

aged.

- If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen

into the product.

- If the product has been exposed to rain or water.

- If the product does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions as an improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.

- If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.

- When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, this indicates a need for service.

REPLACEMENT PARTS: When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.

SAFETY CHECK: Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in proper operating condition.

WALL OR CEILING MOUNTING: The product should not be mounted to a wall or ceiling.

HEAT: The product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

DISPOSAL: This product shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources. For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local city office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

Introduction

Foreword

Thank you for purchasing our Cortex HDC-3000. We are confident that the Cortex platform of products will not only make your life easier through the use of the latest advancements in cross-platform connectivity and sound reproduction but will raise the bar for DJ and pro audio products. With the proper care & maintenance, your unit will likely provide years of reliable, uninterrupted service. All Cortex products are backed by a 1-year limited warranty*.

Preparing for First Use

Please insure that you find these accessories included with the HDC-3000:

RCA audio cables...................................................................................................2

Power supply...........................................................................................................1

Tabletop mounting stands....................................................................................2

Mounting hardware for tabletop stands............................................................1

Operating instructions............................................................................................1

Warranty Card.......................................................................................................1

USB port protector cap.........................................................................................1

Setup Guide

Features

The Cortex HDC-3000 has been designed & engineered to provide digital music playback and manipulation features demanded by professional users. The HDC-3000 is designed to liberate DJs from the issues associated with PC-based solutions, by eliminating the need for a computer during performance. The HDC-3000 also offers superior portability and flexibility over that of a typical PC.

Jog Wheels

The Jog Wheels on the HDC-3000 provide highly precise control for a variety of functions. With the Jog Wheel, the User can search, pitch bend or even scratch just as if it were a vinyl turntable! As well, this can provide an extremely powerful navigation tool for searching menus, changing parameters and selecting music on your hard drive.

Pitch Control

High precision 60mm slide potentiometer for accurate adjustment of speed.

• 0.05% pitch precision

In order to provide more precise pitch adjustment, the unit is able to advance in increments of 0.05%. This aids in beatmatching between two musical programs, with much finer pitch resolution than can be found on most conventional professional CD players.

• Multiple pitch ranges

With pitch ranges of 4, 8, 12, and 24%, the pitch control’s minimum and maximum values can be altered to augment or reduce the amount of pitch adjustment to a musical program.

• Pitch ON/OFF

By pressing the PITCH + and PITCH - buttons simultaneously, this toggles whether or not the unit will respond to changes via the PITCH CONTROL slide. The Pitch ON/OFF feature also functions as a pitch reset, when it is used to turn the pitch OFF.

Backlit LCD Display

The backlit 192x128 graphical LCD screen shows a variety of information, including track titles, times, pitch, setup options, waveforms, hot starts, loops and search parameters. This display allows more extensive visualization of parameters than a conventional CD player.

DSP Effects Processor

The HDC-3000 provides a wealth of effect choices for whatever style of DJ you are. Under the hood, the HDC3000 provides two effects groups, each having a wide variety of creative uses. Group one consists of creative remix effects such as filter, echo, flange, pan and a sampler. Group two consists of reverse, scratch, master tempo and key adjust. Any effect can from group one can be combined with goup two to provide a wealth of remix options for the creative DJ.

even re-sequence the program material in a creative fashion.

Seamless Looping

For further creative options, the HDC-3000 provides for seamless loops for the DJ to use at any time. Loop In and Out points can be edited on the fly, with no limit in time, length or position. Up to four loop can be used per song.

Cross-Platform USB Connectivity

The HDC-3000 offers an unparalled level of connectivity with all driverless USB devices. The Cortex line of products are the first to offer the ability to manipulate music stored on USB devices such as hard drives, flash memory, optical drives, and personal music players, regardless of platform. Through this innovation, DJs are able to consolidate the amount of equipment and music needed during a performance. Even more USB devices can be connected with the use of a compatible USB hub.

CD Audio support

Despite the fact that a vast majority of people have access to USB storage devices or portable music players, the Cortex HDC-3000 supports the playback of CD Audio discs through a compatible USB external CDROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, or DVD-RW drive. This is particularly useful for DJs making a gradual migration, or for playing CDs provided by clients. Note that both sides can share one optical drive, but only one track can be played at a time. For dual-deck CD functionality, simply connect two USB optical drives.

Database-Driven Music Management

The entire line of Cortex Digital Music Players allows for the management of music collections via a database-driven system. Using this method, the database can be queried based on a number of different criteria. This allows DJs to search by artist, title, genre, album, or search string. Using this method allows the DJ to find a specific music selection within seconds. The database is saved to the storage device the music is being drawn from, so that it can be used with any Cortex unit, whether it’s in your personal rig or at a club!Cue Points that have been memorized using the HDC-3000 are also stored along with the database information on the active storage device. Once a Cue Point has been stored, DJs have the ability to recall it each time that track is loaded.

iPod Playlist Support

The HDC-3000 supports iPod Playlists, which can be created using Apple iTunes®. When there are iPod Playlists available to be loaded, a menu option will appear in the main Search Options menu

Cue Points/Hot Cue Storage

The HDC3000 allows you to set up to 4 different Hot Cue CUE POINTS using buttons 1-4, as well as setting a traditional cue point with the CUE button. As your music is playing, if you would like it to jump to one of your set CUE POINTS, simply press that individual CUE button and the music will jump instantly. This allows the DJ to either stutter cue or

Operational Notes

Additional Information

Maintaining Storage Devices

When using writable storage devices, such as hard drives, and harddrive-based music players (iPod, Zen), certain maintenance might be required. Because the Cortex units use streaming technology to manipulate more than one music file from one device simultaneously, hard drives and hard-drive based units need to be defragmented regularly to ensure the integrity of the streamed files.

Fragmentation refers to “the condition of a disk in which files are divided into pieces scattered around the disk. Fragmentation occurs naturally when you use a disk frequently, creating, deleting, and modifying files. At some point, the operating system needs to store parts of a file in noncontiguous clusters. This is entirely invisible to users, but it can slow down the speed at which data is accessed because the disk drive must search through different parts of the disk to put together a single file.”

Maintaining these storage devices must be done via your computer, and should be performed whenever there has been a substantial change to your music library (adding/deleting music). Note that failure to maintain your storage devices might result in delayed access times and glitchy audio playback.

• With Windows XP based machines

First, connect the storage device that you wish to defragment. If you are connecting a hard-drive based music player, such as an Apple iPod or Microsoft Zune, make sure to exit any applications that may be launched on connection.

Cleaning the Unit

To clean the HDC-3000, use only a dry soft cloth and/or compressed air. If the unit is soiled with stubborn dirt, we suggest using a 2:1 solution of distilled water and 30% isopropyl alcohol. Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals such as benzene, paint thinner, bleach, or hydrochloric acid, which will damage the unit.

Operating Conditions

For optimum performance, the temperature of the operating environment should be between +5º C to +35º C (+41º F - +95º F). Failure to maintain proper operating temperature may result in difficulty reading the LCD display, thermal overload, or system-wide instability. Avoid exposing the unit to direct sunlight.

When placing the unit in an installation, make sure that it is placed on a stable surface, as far away from vibrations as possible. Even though the Cortex is impervious to vibration, the storage devices (specifically hard drive based ones) that are designed to be used in conjunction with it are typically not. Also be sure not to place or use the player on heat generating sources, such as amplifiers or near spotlights.

Never use any other power supply other than the one provided with the unit, as doing so may damage the unit and void the warranty. The power supply included with the HDC-3000 is a custom made supply and is not commercially available.

To load Disk Defragmenter, go to the Start menu, and find Disk Defragmenter under Accessories/System Tools.

When Disk Defragmenter has been loaded, select the device to be defragmented, and click the ‘Defragment’ button at the bottom of the window.

For more information on defragmenting, consult the Windows Help guide.

• With Apple Macintosh Machines

According to Apple, provisions within the HFS file allocation system diminish the need for any type of defragmentation. Because of this, there is no software included in OSX to accomplish this. However, this does not guarantee that defragmentation will not be necessary for external storage devices and portable music players.

For more information on Apple’s claims, see this article:

http://docs

.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=25668

Always Make Backups!

Due to the sometimes fragile state of PC components, we insist that you make backups of the storage devices that you plan on using with the Cortex. All hard drives (and hard-drive-based portable music players), are prone to failure - they have moving parts inside. Instead of taking a chance that your hard drive will last one more performance, one more month, or one more year, it is a far more intelligent choice to back up your data for the worst case scenario.

Lawful Use of HDC-3000

Neither Cortex nor its dealers assume responsibility for the use made of the HDC-3000. The user must ensure he/she has all relevant licenses and consents in place (whether for copyright/public performance, performers rights, moral rights or otherwise) to allow the lawful use of the HDC-3000. This is likely to include licenses from organizations administering performance rights in audio recordings or consents from any other relevant rights holders.

The Cortex line of units, although designed to streamline the process by which DJs perform, is not designed as a tool to facilitate media piracy. We urge that our users legitimately purchase the music they plan to use, and support the artists who make it possible for them to sustain a career as a professional entertainer.

Neither Cortex nor your retailer will be held responsible for data loss because of the lack of backups.

Important Notice

Before operating this unit, please verify that you have the latest firmware version available from our website - http://www.cortex-pro.com. New versions of the HDC-3000 firmware will include additional features, bug fixes, and enhanced compatibility to guarantee optimum performance of your unit. There are even Spanish and French language versions, to make operating the HDC-3000 easier than ever!

Additionally, please also download our FREE Cortex Database Creation Software, which allows you to create searchable databases of your entire music collection within minutes! This indispensable utility is designed to save you time when preparing large storage devices to use with the HDC-3000.

To find out what version of HDC-3000 firmware you are running:

1. Power on the HDC-3000 with NO DEVICES CONNECTED.

2. At the prompt that says ‘Insert Devices,’ press the INFO button.

3. The screen will display the version number of the currently installed HDC-3000 firmware.

To upgrade your firmware to the newest version:

1. Using your PC, download the firmware update to the root directory of your USB storage device (X:\ where X is the letter of the drive). We recommend Internet Explorer.

2. Connect the USB storage device to the HDC-3000.

3. Power on the HDC-3000, and select the aforementioned device.

4. The unit will display the date/version of the new update, and will ask if you want to update. Select ‘YES,’ and press enter.

5. The unit will go through a 8-step update procedure, after which the power will automatically shut down. When the unit is powered on again, you will be running the latest firmware.

Warning: If the power is interrupted or the USB device is removed during this process, it can damage the operating system of the unit. As well, it is advisable that the unit is not moved during the update process to make sure that the process is uninterrupted.

For more detailed information about Firmware Updates, including screen shots, please see the Firmware Updates section of the manual (page 24).

Setup Guide

Parts Diagram and Functions

Rear Panel

1. AUDIO OUT L/R RCA connectors, side 1 RCA type unbalanced stereo audio output. These connectors output audio signal generated from Side 1 of the HDC-1000 unit.

2. AUDIO OUT L/R RCA connectors, side 2 RCA type unbalanced stereo audio output. These connectors output audio signal generated from Side 2 of the HDC-1000 unit.

3. USB connector (type A) This connector is used to attach the USB mass storage device (MSD) that contains your music library. Suitable mass storage devices include, but are not limited to: external hard drives, flash memory, portable digital music players, CD/DVD-ROM drives, memory card readers, and active USB hubs.

4. DC inlet w/security clamp

This connector is used in conjunction with the AC adapter to power the unit. Next to the DC inlet connector is a security clamp, which can be fastened over top of the cable to prevent it from being dislodged.

Setup Guide

Parts Diagram and Functions

16 15

Front Panel

1. USB connector (type A) This connector is used to attach the USB mass storage device that contains your music library. Suitable mass storage devices include, but are not limited to: external hard drives, flash memory, portable digital music players, CD/DVD-ROM drives, memory card readers, and active USB hubs.

2. JOG MODE button/indicator

Each time this button is pressed, this button controls alternately whether the JOG WHEEL will function as PITCH BEND or FF/REW. When the LED indicator is lit, it indicates that the JOG WHEEL will function as FF/REW.

3. INFO button

When this button is pressed, the LCD DISPLAY will show all of the attributes of the currently playing track. When the unit is in SEARCH MODE, pressing INFO on a highlighted digital music file will also show these attributes. The UP/DOWN arrows and JOG WHEEL can be used to advance through pages of attributes, when necessary.

4. PLAY MODE button

When this button is pressed, the LCD DISPLAYwill return to the state that relates to playback. This means that the track name, time remaining (or elapsed), pitch percentage, and visual time indicators will be displayed on the screen. This button can be used at any time, with the exception of when the unit is creating a database.

5. SEARCH MODE button When this button is pressed, the LCD DISPLAYwill return to the state that relates the search function of the unit. This means that track titles, artist names, album names, genre classifications, playlists, file names, or search criteria will be displayed on the screen. This button can be used at any time, with the exception of when the unit is creating a database.

6. LCD DISPLAY panel This blue-backlit display is a 192x128 LCD that displays information such as track/waveform, folders, parameter adjustments and search information. Contrast is available in the Edit menu.

7. PITCH ON/OFF indicator and PITCH BEND buttons Pressing both PITCH BEND (+) and PITCH BEND (-) simultaneously toggles whether or not the unit will respond to changes made to the pitch via the PITCH BEND buttons, PITCH CONTROL slide, and JOG WHEEL. PITCH is engaged when the LEDindicator is lit. Momentary adjustments to PITCH can be made by pressing the PITCH BEND (+) or PITCH BEND (-) button. The range of the PITCH CONTROL can be changed by holding the SHIFT and pressing the PITCH BEND (+) or PITCH BEND (-) button. The pitch range will be displayed in the lower right hand corner of the LCD DISPLAY panel. If KEY ADJUST is enabled then these arrows adjust KEY in +-5 half steps.

8. PITCH CONTROL slide This slide, when pushed towards the bottom of the unit (+), increases the tempo of playback. When the slide is pushed towards the top of the unit (-), the tempo of playback is decreased.

9. PLAY/PAUSE button/indicator When the LED indicator which illuminates this button is lit solidly, it indicates that the unit is in PLAY mode. When the LED indicator is flashing, it indicates that the unit is in PAUSE mode.

10. CUE button/indicator When the LED indicator which illuminates this button is lit, it indicates that there is a CUE POINT memorized. See page 20 for detailed information about setting, memorizing, and recalling CUE POINTS.

Setup Guide

Parts Diagram and Functions

16 15

Front Panel (continued)

11. NAVIGATOR keypad These buttons allow the user to navigate through menus and features of the HDC-1000. Depending on the mode of the unit, the buttons may serve different purposes.

13. SHIFT button Holding down the SHIFT button extends the use of certain buttons on the unit, by providing alternate functions.

14. JOG WHEEL The JOG WHEEL controls many aspects of the unit, and can be used for navigating through menus, searching through music and manipulation of pitch. The behavior of the JOG WHEEL is dependent on the mode of operation, as well as the status of the PITCH ON/OFF indicator and JOG MODE.

15. POWER button The POWER button can be pressed momentarily to turn ON the unit; to turn off the unit, the POWER button must be held down for 5 seconds.

16. SINGLE button When this button is pressed momentarily, the state of playback (SINGLE or CONTINUE) will be displayed on each side’s respective LCD DISPLAY. To change the state of playback, hold the SHIFT button on the side of the unit you wish to change, and press the SINGLE button momentarily. The new state of playback (SINGLE or CONTINUE) will then be displayed on that side’s respective LCD DISPLAY panel.

17. TIME MODE button This button dictates whether the unit will display textual and visual time information relating to the TIME REMAINING or TIME ELAPSED. Pressing this button momentarily changes the TIME MODE of both sides of the unit, while holding SHIFT and momentarily pressing TIME will change the TIME MODE of only that respective side.

17. DSP button This button engages the DSP menu. From this menu, DSP effects such as filter, flange, echo, etc can be both engaged and edited. Any changes

that are made can be saved to the unit for recall at a later point.

18. Loops button This button engages the loop menu. Up to 4 loops can be saved and edited per song, and upon loop creation the in and out points can be edited on the fly. Loops are automatically saved to the MSD for later use.

19. Hot Cue button This button engages the Hot Cue menu. Up to 4 hot cue’s are available per song. Hot Cues are automatically saved to the MSD for later use.

20.Samples button This button will engage the samples menu. Up to 4 samples can be used at any time.

21. Multifunction buttons (1-4) Depending on which menu you are in, these buttons do everything from engage loops to select parameters. These options are specific to each menu-please read each section of the manual relating to the specific menu in question to learn the function of each key.

20.Edit button This button will engage the edit menu. From this menu the user can edit low level functions of the unit, such as pitch range, device selection, waveform creation and even the unit’s internal clock.

23. BPM/Key Adjust/Master Tempo buttons These buttons engage functions that change how the pitch is used. BPM will display the Beats Per Minute of the track in real time, and reflect any changes made on the pitch fader. Key adjust changes the key of the song without changing the speed. Master Tempo changes the speed without changing the pitch. Both Master Tempo and Key can be used in combination with the BPM button as well. When Key Adjust is enabled then the PITCH BEND buttons act to change KEY instead of acting as a

PITCH BEND.

STEP ONE

Connect the AC adapter to the DC Inlet, found on the rear of the unit. Fasten the Security Clamp (found directly below the DC Inlet jack) on top of the cable, so that it is not possible for the cable to become dislodged.

STEP TWO

Connect the RCA Audio Outputs on both sides of the unit to a suitable audio mixer. When connecting the unit, make sure you note that the Side 1 outputs carry audio from the left side deck, and Side 2 outputs carry audio from the right side of the deck.

Using the HDC-3000

Preparing for Use

Fig 1.1 - Connect Power

STEP THREE

Connect your primary USB device to the port found in the center of the rear panel. You may choose any driverless device that follows FAT32, NTFS, or HFS+ file systems. You may also connect a powered (active) USB hub to augment the amount of available ports. If required, you may also connect a device to the front USB port.

STEP FOUR Press and Hold the Power button located in the center of the front panel

for about 1-2 seconds. The unit will take about 5-10 seconds to boot up as well as detect any USB devices that are currently connected.

Fig 1.2 - Connect Audio

Fig 1.3 - Connect USB

Fig 1.4 - Turn Power ON

Using the HDC-3000

Selecting Devices & Database Creation

STEP ONE - DEVICE SELECTION

When prompted, select the desired storage device, on each side, that you wish to access. Use the Navigator Keypad to advance through the list of devices, and press Enter to select.

If necessary, you can also connect other USB storage devices without powering down the unit.

Note that when you select a storage device on one side, the unit will be required to complete any necessary Database Creation before being able to select a device on the opposite side. During this time, the opposite screen will display “Wait for other side.”

STEP TWO - INDEXING

Once you have selected a device, the unit will search for a database of the music that exists on that device. If it is the first time you are using that particular unit with the HDC-3000, the unit will prompt you to perform indexing, so that you can search for any song within seconds. If you already have used the storage device with the HDC-3000, skip to STEP TWO - VERIFICATION.

If you wish to create the database using the HDC-3000, select ‘YES’ from this prompt.

During the indexing procedure, the unit must create a database based off of the ID3 tags that exist on the storage device. The speed of this procedure directly relates to how many songs are stored on the connected device. If you are using a hard drive over 20 gigs, or an NTFS device, we suggest that you use the Cortex Database Creation PC application to perform the indexing, as it will save time (especially with a fast CPU). The Cortex Database Creation software is available for FREE from http://www.cortex-pro.com in the HDC-3000 section of the site.

Select device 1/3: >USB Mass Storage Dev..

Maxtor RTIH24

Apple iPod

Fig 2.1 - Select USB device for each side of unit

Device has no DataBase. Perform indexing now?

<YES> NO

Fig 2.2 - Create Database by selecting ‘YES’

Once the indexing procedure has begun, it can be cancelled by pressing the Info button.

VERIFICATION

If your storage device has already been indexed, you will be presented with a prompt allowing you to verify the database. For each time that you add files to your storage device, you will either have to use the Verify function to add those files to the index, or use the Cortex Database Creation PC application.

We strongly suggest using the Database Creation application, as it can process files at many times the speed of the HDC-3000 itself.

Creating DataBase...

--< Search... >--/Old School Hip Hop/ songs: 248

Fig 2.3 - Database Creation Screen

DataBase found. Would you like to verify it now? YES <NO>

Fig 2.4- Every time music is added to your storage device, the database must be verified and updated in order to index the new songs.

Using the HDC-3000

Database Creation (continued)

STEP TWO - VERIFICATION (CONTINUED)

If you select ‘YES’ at the prompt to verify, you will have the option to either verify the entire database, or to verify a single directory at a time. If you keep your collection organized within separate directories, you can easily select just the directories which you know have been updated.

If you press Enter at this prompt, you will be given access to the file browser, from which you can select the directory that you wish to update. Shift+Enter will verify all directories, and might take awhile if you have a vast music library.

Once the verification procedure has begun, it can be cancelled by pressing the Info button.

If you choose to enter the File Browser, you then must find the directory you wish to verify. If you are using an iPod, this will be impossible, simply

due to the fact that iTunes renames all of the music on the iPod to random letters and numbers, making it impossible to differentiate between filenames. Once you are finished verifying directories, select the very top

option, labeled ‘<.......>’.

Once you are finished with verifying, simply choose the option labeled ‘Exit from Verify.’

Congratulations! You are now ready to start searching through your music library quickly and efficiently. Using this method will help you locate any song in your collection quicker than ever before.

press Enter to

select dir to verify

Shift+Enter to

verify all subdir

Fig 2.5 - Verification of separate directories vs all directories

-<Verifying>-

>File Browser >

Exit from Verify

-<Verifying>-

..... >

.db >

>Maps of Norway >

-<Verifying>-

File Browser >

>Exit from Verify

Fig 2.6 - Selecting directories to verify one-at-a-time

Welcome to CORTEX,

the world of

Intelligent Sound

Press any key...

Fig 2.7 - Welcome screen shows unit is ready for use

Section Three: File Browser and Search Options

Using the HDC-3000

File Browser and Search Options

USING THE FILE BROWSER

The File Browser is designed to allow you to view the directory structure found on a connected storage device, rather than search by specific criteria. This can be helpful if you keep your music collection in order, but can also help to locate a song that may not have the appropriate ID3 tag information. When a track does not have an ID3 tag, it will not be added to the searchable database of tracks, but will still be accessible via the string search option.

Once you enter the File Browser, you will be presented with the file structure exactly as it exists on the storage device. Use the Jog Wheel or the Navigator Keypad to advance through entries. To go back to the Main Menu, press the left Arrow Key.

When you have found the MP3 file that you wish to play, simply press Enter, and the track will load into the temporary playlist. Press Enter again to load the track for play. You may press the Search Mode but- ton, found at the top of the unit, at any time to return to the Search Options menu. Similarly, when you are in Search Mode, you may press the Play Mode button to return to the play screen.

SEARCH OPTIONS

The database-driven searching of the HDC-3000 provides DJs with a quick and easy way to find tracks amongst a large library, by allowing the user to search by Song, Artist, Genre, Album, or String. Simply choose one of these Search Options, and that particular criteria will be displayed in alphabetical order.

Search by Songs

When you Search by Songs, you will see presented with all of the track titles in the database that has been created by the HDC-3000 or the helper software application.

>File Browser

Search by String Search by Artists Search by Genres

Fig 3.1 - Selecting File Browser from Main Menu

.db >

>Awesome Snakes >

Baby Guts >

Fig 3.2 - Browsing file/directory structure using File Browser

Awesome Snakes -P.O.S Awesome Snakes -Futur Awesome Snakes -Veno

Fig 3.3 - Browsing files in a directory using File Browser

Search by Artists

When you choose Search by Artists, you can narrow down the amount of results by first selecting the artist you wish to browse, then you can easily select the track you want to play.

> <previous> >

MC/VL-Buckner MC/VL-Cold Check It MC/VL-Monkeyshines

Fig 3.4 - Searching by song title

> <previous> >

24 Reasons Why

Awesome Snakes

MC/VL

Fig 3.5 - Searching by artist

SEARCH OPTIONS (CONTINUED)

Using the HDC-3000

Search Options (continued)

Search by Genres

When Search by Genres is chosen, you will be presented with a list of all of the genres found in the database. Because not every MP3 has ID3 genre tagging, some tracks may not be displayed in this search. Once you select a genre from the list, you will be able to browse all songs within that genre.

Search by Album

Using the Search by Album option will allow you to search by the name of the album that a track is from. Keep in mind that this option also may not allow you to access all tracks, because sometimes singles are sold separately and are not taken from any specific album. Once you select an album, all of the tracks found under that album will be displayed.

> <previous> >

Acapella

Breakbeat Classical

Fig 3.6 - Searching by genre

> <previous> >

Stance Start Again Venom

Fig 3.7 - Searching by album

Search by String

One of the most convenient features of the HDC-3000 is string search, which allows you to find a specified word or string of words within the database. This is exceptionally helpful when you (or your client) has a request, but does not know the exact title or artist.

Once you have selected ‘Search by String,’ you will be presented with a prompt where you may input a word or series of words that will be used when querying the database.

Using the Jog Wheel or Up/Down arrows (on the Navigator Keypad), enter the first letter of the Search String. Use the Right arrow or the Enter Key to advance to the next space, and enter the next letter. You may press the Left arrow to go back to the previous letter, or press Shift+Left to backspace (deletes the previous letter).

Finally, when the Search String is entered, you will need to press the Enter key twice, and the unit will execute the search.

Input Search String:

Fig 3.8 - String Search input prompt

Input Search String:

MC/VL

Fig 3.81 - Using Keyboard or Jog wheel to input a search string

SEARCH OPTIONS (CONTINUED)

Using the HDC-3000

Search Options (continued)

Once you press Enter twice, the unit will begin processing your search. Depending on the size of your library, this may take awhile.

After the unit is finished executing the search, it will display the results that were found for each category: Titles, Artists, Genres, and Albums each of which can be accessed by using the Navigation Pad Arrow Keys or the Jog Wheel. Note that the amount of results found under each category will be displayed in parenthesis. In this example, there are 10 titles of songs with the word “MC/VL” in them, and 1 artist.

Once you have chosen a category - Titles, Artists, Genres, or Albums, you will browse through the selections as if you were in any of the other search modes. Once again, you may select a track using the Jog Wheel or Navigation Pad, and press Enter to load it.

Processing

< < < <

Fig 3.82 - Processing the Search

Exit Search >

>Titles-(10) >

Artists-(1) >

Genres-(0) >

Fig 3.83 - Displaying result categories

> <previous> >

MC/VL-Buckner MC/VL-Cold Check It MC/VL-Ulysses

Fig 3.9- Selecting a matching title from the executed search

Section Four: Info Button and Track Attributes

You will find that the Info Button, located to the top right of each jog wheel, will become an indispensable part of using the HDC-3000. Despite the HDC-3000 being able to display an adequate amount of information on the LCD, not every attribute of each track can be displayed all at once. Additionally, there will be times when you may run into two tracks with the same title, and the Info Button will help to reveal which track you truly want to select.

While in Play Mode or Search Mode, pressing the Info button will display all attributes relating to the currently playing or currently selected track (depending on whether you are in Play or Search Mode).

Using the HDC-3000

Info Button & Track Attributes

Fig 4.1 - The Info Button is used to display all track attributes

The Info function displays:

Artist - Artist as per what is listed in the ID3 tag Title - Title as per what is listed in the ID3 tag Album - Album as per what is listed in the ID3 tag Type of File - Whether the file is MP3 or WAV Genre - Genre as per what is listed in the ID3 tag Path & Filename - Exactly how it exists in the directory structure of the

storage device

Note that most of the attributes are taken directly from the ID3 tag found in the MP3 file. If the ID3 tag is missing any of these attributes, they will not be displayed in the Info screens. Also note that if you are using a .Wav file, .Wav files do not use ID3 tags, and as such the DB software will place the file name into the Title section of the Info field.

Once you have pressed the Info button, you will be presented with all of the attributes relating to the currently playing or selected track. You may use the Navigation Keypad or the Jog Wheel to scroll up and down to view all of the information.

To exit the Info screens, you may press the Info Button again, or you may press either the Search or Play Mode buttons to jump immediately to those modes, when applicable.

artist : MC/VL title : Monkey Shines album: Stance type : mp3

Fig 4.2 - Information Screen 1 of 3

genre: Hip Hop time : 02.33 path : /songs/MC_VL/ MC_VL-Monkey Shines

Fig 4.3 - Information Screen 2 of 3

MC_VL-808.mp3 size : 7452 Kb

Fig 4.4 - Information Screen 3 of 3

Using the HDC-3000

Play Mode and Single Auto Cue

Section Five: Play Mode

The Play Mode is the heart of the Cortex HDC-3000. Just like conventional CD players, the HDC-3000 allows you to select multiple pitch ranges, memorize cue points, and frame accurate searching. The HDC3000 excels over traditional CD players, as it is much faster at loading and starting playback, it has a more informative LCD display, and it can memorize cue points for future performances.

Entering Play Mode

By default, when you press Enter to select a track from Search Mode, the unit will immediately load the track and enter Play Mode.

If music is already playing and you wish to return to the Play Mode screen, simply press the Play Mode button.

Track Title

Progress Indicator

POS is Ruining My Life

+ 1:08:22

>>>>>-------------------------

Pitch 6.15%

Fig 5.1 - Play Mode Screen

Time Display

Pitch Value

Fig 5.11 - Entering Play Mode

Single Mode (Single Auto Cue)

Single Mode, when a track is loaded, will automatically cue to the first frame of audio, and then wait for you to press Play. At the end of that track, the unit will pause. To engage this mode, press Shift+Single on each side you wish to engage this mode on.

When Single Mode is off when loading a track, the unit will begin playing immediately. At the end of that track, the unit will continue to play the next file displayed in the Search Results. When Single Mode is off, this gives you the ability to play all of the Search Results in the order that they were displayed. Pressing Shift+Single on each side will also allow you to turn Single Mode off.

Pressing the Single button by itself will display, on both screens, the status of each side - whether or not Single Mode is on or off.

SINGLE ON

>>>>>>>>>>>-------------+ 2:32:57 6.15%

Fig 5.2 - LCD Display shows status of Single Mode

Fig 5.3- Using Shift+Single to toggle Single or Continuous modes

Section Six: Edit Mode

The Edit Mode on the HDC-3000 is the command center for the unit. In Edit Mode, the user can edit options for how the unit functions, playlists and choose the active device.

Options Menu

This mode is probably the one you will use the most in the Edit menu. From here you can edit the following options-

-Shuffle-Toggles Shuffle On/Off

-Auto Cue-Sets the Cue to the start of the audio of a track

-LCD Contrast-Adjust the Contrast of the LCD Screens

-Enable Pitch-Turns Pitch On/Off

-Pitch Bending-Sets speed of pitch bend-slow/medium/fast

-Pitch Range-Sets range of pitch fader-4/8/16/24%

-Time-Toggles display between time elapsed/remaining

-Single-Toggles Single play mode

-BPM-Turns the BPM counter on/off

-Jog-Toggles between search and pitch for the jog wheel

-Touch-Toggles Touch Sensitivity for Jog Wheel

-DB Creation-Toggles DB creation for new media on/off

-Date and Time-Lets user set internal clock

-Wave Options-Lets user choose where waveform is created, if it is saved to media and the size in seconds of the waveform displayed on the screen.

-Shuffle Mode-Enables Shuffle mode

-Auto Recall Hot Cue/Loops-Turns on/off auto save/recall of Loops and Hot Cues.

Using the HDC-3000

Options Menu and Shuffle Mode

Edit Menu

Options Playlist Editor Choose Active Device Loops

Fig 6.1 - Play Mode Screen

Options

Shuffle Off Auto Cue On LCD Contrast 1 Enable Pitch On Pitch Bending Slow Pitch Range 4%

Fig 6.2 - LCD Display shows Options Mode

Playlist Editor

This menu lets the user enter the playlist editor menu. For more information please see section Nine on page 21.

Choose Active Device Menu

This menu lets the user toggle between devices connected to the unit. This can come in handy if the user chooses to switch between multiple storage devices or a CD-rom.

Shuffle Mode

A useful feature for unattended playback is Shuffle Mode. This feature randomly selects tracks based on what is narrowed down using the Search Criteria and loaded into a Playlist. For instance, if you select All Songs as your Search Criteria and load them into a Playlist, then the unit will randomly select songs from that list. Shuffle Mode can be turned on/off directly from the Options Menu.

Select device 1/3: >USB Mass Storage Dev.

Imation-Flash Disk Generic-Flash Disk

Fig 6.3 - Mass Storage Selection

SHUFFLE ON

>>>>>----------------------+ 1:08:22 6.15%

Fig 6.4 - LCD Display shows Shuffle Status

BPM Instructions (addendum)

BPM Instructions (revised)

The B.P.M. value determines the Tempo that any particular

song plays at.

The HDC-3000 will automatically calculate and display this Tempo as a numerical value known as B.P.M.(Beats Per Minute).

The BPM button, (see Figure 1) has Three modes Auto, Manual and Off.

By pressing and holding the button for 2 sec you can access each mode individually. (the main display will momentarily flash which mode you are in where the song title is normally shown)

AUTO MODE The HDC-3000 will calculate the BPM for you automatically.

MANUAL MODE

By using the BPM button to TAP-IN the tempo of the beat you can manually input the BPM of any song.

HDC-3000

(figure # 1)

In both the AUTO and MANUAL modes you can save the new BPM info to the ID3 tag of the songs mp3 file info by holding down the Shift button while pressing the BPM at the same time (see figure 2). Once stored this information is permanently written to the ID3 tag, but can always be overwritten by repeating this procedure.

OFF MODE The HDC-3000 will not display or calculate BPM information.

BPM SEARCH

The HDC-3000 allows you to search by BPM so the more of your files that have BPM information in thier ID3 tags the more comprehensive the BPM search.

(Note: Songs with no BPM in thier ID3 tag will default to a BPM value of zero.)

(figure # 2)

18(A)

Section Seven: Waveform Display

Waveforms are a visual representation of the program material. Using the waveform display, you can not only see volume fluctuations in the music but even when the “breakdowns” are coming. This can help to visually mix as well as mix by audio.

Using the HDC-3000

Waveform Display

Creating Waveform:32%

Press Enter To Cancel

Waveforms can be created in two places-in the unit or in the Cortex DB software. This can be downloaded from www.cortex-pro.com.

In the Edit menu you can choose if a waveform is created upon song load or if it will be created offline. While we have included this feature to be used in case of emergency, due to processing time we recommend you create the waveform in the DB software so there is no delay in being able to play your music. If you wish to cancel the creation of a waveform then press the Enter button to cancel the process. If the same song is loaded on both sides then only one side will create the waveform.

Waveforms will be displayed across the top of the screen, above the progress bar. Sections of 5, 10, 20 and 40 seconds can be displayed on the screen at any given time. Additionally, the user can choose if the waveform itself scrolls or if the cursor runs along the bottom of a static waveform.

>-------------------------------

Pitch 1.05%

Fig 7.1 - Waveform Creation

Fig 7.2 - Waveform Display

Section Eight: Time Display Modes Changing the Time Display Mode is as simple as pressing the Time button to toggle between elapsed and remaining time. Elapsed Time shows

how much time has past since the beginning of the track, and Remaining Time shows how much time is left before the track is over.

You may press Time to change the Time Display Mode for both sides. If you wish to change the Time Display Mode on both sides press Shift+Time.

When the Time Display Mode is changed, you will also notice that the Progress Indicator will also change to reflect either Elapsed Time or Remaining Time.

Pitch Control, Pitch Bend, and Pitch Ranges

The Pitch Control allows you to speed up or slow down the playback of a track by a desired percentage. The HDC-3000 offers Pitch Ranges of 4, 8, 16, and 24%, in order to provide a wide level of flexibility when manipulating digital music files. In all modes, 0.05% Pitch Resolution can be achieved, allowing for a more precise level of adjustment.

Using the HDC-3000

Time Display and Pitch Control

POS-Broken Hearts Club

>>>>>----------------------+ 1:08:22 6.15%

Fig 8.1 - LCD Display and progress indicator in time elapsed

POS-Broken Hearts Club

------------->>>>>>>>>>>>

- 3:32:57 6.15%

Fig 8.2 - LCD Display and progress indicator in time remaining

To toggle Pitch On or Off (the unit will not respond to pitch changes when Pitch is Off), press both the Pitch Bend (+) and Pitch Bend (-) buttons simultaneously. The LED indicator will illuminate when Pitch has been turned On.

To change Pitch Ranges, press Shift+Pitch Bend (+) OR Pitch Bend (-) buttons simultaneously. The Pitch Display on the LCD screen of that respective side will momentarily display the new Pitch Range.

For a momentary change in Pitch, the Pitch Bend (+) and Pitch Bend (-) buttons will temporarily increase or decrease pitch relative to the amount of time either button is held down.

When the Jog Mode is not engaged (LED remains unlit), you may also use the Jog Wheel to perform a Pitch Bend.

Key Adjust and Master Tempo

The Key Adjust and Master Tempo controls allow you to have independent controls of Key Adjust and Tempo. When Master Tempo and Key adjust are enabled, the Pitch Bend (+) and Pitch Bend (-) buttons become Key Adjust buttons, with a range of +-5 half steps, displayed in Sharp/Flat for +/-, and the Pitch Slider and Jog Wheel control Master Tempo and Master Tempo bend.

To enable Master Tempo and Key Adjust, first you need to press the Master Tempo button. If you press Key alone Key will not be enabled, and must be turned on within Master Tempo mode.

To disengage Key Adjust, simply press the Key Adjust button at any time, and the Key will return to it’s original value. To return to Pitch mode simply press Master Tempo or press Pitch Bend (+) and Pitch Bend (-) .If Key adjust is enabled then that will be turned off as well at this time.

Fig 8.3 - Pitch On/Off by pressing both buttons simultaneously. If in Master Tempo Mode doing this will return the unit to Pitch.

Section Nine: Jog Mode

When the Jog Mode LED is unlit, the Jog Wheel (when in Play Mode) will perform as a Pitch Bend.

When the Jog Mode button is pressed, the LED indicator will illuminate, and the Jog Wheel will then allow you to search (FF/REW) through each track. The faster the Jog Wheel is moved, the faster the unit will search through the playing track. In order to use the Jog Mode, the unit must be in the process of playing, not paused. (Note-Scratch mode is enabled by default, and is turned on/off in the Setup menu)

Playback Navigation Functions

Using the Navigation keypad left & right buttons, you can search through a track similar to using the Jog Mode function.

Using the Navigation keypad up & down buttons will allow you to skip to the previous or next track that was found in the Search Results. For instance, if you searched by Artist, and your Search Results displayed 10 tracks by that Artist, using the Navigation keypad up & down buttons will allow you to skip between those tracks.

Using the HDC-3000

Jog Mode and Playlist Support

Fig 9.1 - Switching Jog Mode between FF/REW and Pitch Bend using the Jog Mode button

Apple Playlist Support

The HDC-3000 has support for both Itunes playlists that are contained on an Ipod, as well as playlists created within the unit stored directly to an Ipod or Mass Storage Device. From the main menu both types of playlists are accessible at any time. Playlists are created in real time within the HDC3000, and can be saved at th end of a gig so that your set can be recalled for future use. As well, if you wish to create a playlist from your computer, Itunes can be used to sort music into playlists before a gig.

Creating a Playlist

The beauty of the HDC-3000 playlist system is that you are creating a playlist all time, whether you realize it or not! Every time a song is selected, it is loaded into a temporary playlist. This playlist does not need to be saved, though the option is there if you had a particularly inspired set and wish to try and replicate it in the future. To access the Temporary Playlist hit the edit button twice or access the playlist screen from the edit menu. You can save your playlist at any time, and if you need to write over a playlist this is possible so as to be able to update your playlist at any time.

If you perform a search or enter a folder and wish to load all songs matching your criteria into a playlist, simply press Shift+Enter to load all matching songs into the Temporary playlist.

Up/Down - Track Skip

Left/Right - FF/REW Search

Fig 9.2 - Navigation keypad functions in Play mode

Playlists > Apple Playlists

> Search by Genres

Search by Albums

Fig 9.3 - iPod Playlist option from the Search Menu

Playlist

Building Better Bombs-Lookout!.mp3 MC/VL-Moby Dick.mp3 POS-Yea Right.mp3 Selby Tigers-Hiro Disappearo.mp3

1 2 3 4 Shift+/\\/

Save Remove Clear Undo Move

Fig 9.4 -Temporary Playlist creation

Using the HDC-3000

Cue Points & Memorization

Section 10: Setting and Memorizing Cue Points

With the HDC-3000, creating and memorizing cue points is quick and easy. There are two (2) types of cue points available at any given time, a traditional stutter cue, as well as four Hot Cue buttons.

By default, when there is no Cue Point set (or memorized), pressing the Cue button returns the unit to the beginning of the track (0:00.00) and pauses.

To set a Cue Point during playback at a time of your choice, simply press

Pause, and then use the Navigation keypad left & right buttons or Jog Wheel to make any adjustments by frame. When Play is pressed to

resume playback, the Cue Point will be stored.

To memorize the Cue Point and save it to the USB storage device (to be recalled each time the track is loaded), find the exact frame that you wish to set as a Cue Point, and press Shift+Cue. This will permanently set & save the Cue Point to the storage device. This process can also be done on the fly, without the unit being paused. The screen will indicate when a Cue Point has been stored.

To advance back to the set Cue Point, simply press the Cue button during playback. Do not press Pause first, as this will instead set a new point. Once advanced to the Cue Point, the unit will remain in Pause mode.

To memorize a new Cue Point, you do not have to erase the previously set one. You can simply press Shift+Cue again, and it will replace the old Cue Point.

How I Eat My Peas

>----------------------------+ 0:00:00 6.15%

Fig 10.1 - Pressing CUE to return to 0:00:00.

CUE POINT STORED

>>>>>----------------------+ 1:08:22 6.15%

Fig 10.2 - Cue Point Memorization using Shift+Cue

Please note that in order for a Cue Point to be saved to the connected USB storage device, it must be a FAT32 file system. If it is an Ipod it must be a Windows (Fat32) formatted Ipod as well.

CUE POINT DELETED

>>>>>----------------------+ 1:08:22 6.15%

Fig 10.3 - Cue Point Deletion using Shift+Cue

Section 11: Changing, Adding, and Ejecting USB Storage Devices

To access the Device Menu from any screen, press Shift+Power. From this menu, you can choose to Change or Eject Devices.

Since USB is hot-swappable, you can connect (but not disconnect) a USB device at any time, regardless of whether the unit is powered On or not and regardless of what mode the unit is in.

Using the HDC-3000

Device Menu

USB Mass Storage Device

>Change device

> Eject device > Back

- To Change devices:

1. Select Change device from the Device Menu.

2. Select the new device you wish to switch to using the Navigation key- pad or Jog Wheel.

3. Perform any necessary cataloguing or verification (as found in Section Two: Selecting Devices & Database Creation)

- To Eject devices:

1. Select Eject device from the Device Menu.

2. Select the new device you wish to Eject using the Navigation keypad or Jog Wheel. Press Enter to eject the device.

3. If the device you have ejected is being used by both sides of the HDC3000, the unit will warn you by displaying “The device is also attached to other side!” This simply means that if you intend to remove the device from the HDC-3000, you must eject both sides before unplugging it.

4. When the display reads “The device can be safely removed,” you may disconnect the USB device.

5. If you are using a USB CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive, you must use the Eject procedure in order to open the CD/DVD tray.

Fig 11.1 - Pressing Shift+Power to access the Device Menu

Select device 1/3: >USB Mass Storage Dev..

Imation-Flash Disk Generic-Flash Disk

Fig 11.2 - Selecting another device using the Keypad/Jog Wheel

If the Eject procedure is not followed, there is risk of corrupting any files that are open when the device is disconnected.

Ejecting Device...

The device can be

safely removed

Fig 11.3 - Only remove the USB device after the eject procedure

Section Twelve: Hot Cue Mode

Hot Cues are cue points that can be set on the fly (while the song is playing) and differ from traditional cue points in that the program material will continue to play from the point that you press the button, instead of needing to continue to hold the play button down. To make use of the hot cues, first press the Hot Cue button to engage the hot cue menu.

From the Cue menu, you can view both which Cue “slots” are open, as well as the Minute/Second/Frame points of each Cue. To record a hot cue, first press the corresponding button (Multifunction Buttons 1-4) to the location you wish to save to. To alter the hot cue position, use the navigation arrows to highlight the chosen hot cue, then use the Jog wheel to alter time. To delete the hot cue, press shift plus the chosen location.

Hot Cues can also be created/edited from the Play screen. To go into Hot Cue mode in the play screen, press the Hot Cue button twice. You will see a small “Cue” symbol on the play screen. Creating / editing / deleting Hot Cues in this mode is the same as in the edit screen-the main difference is you cannot edit in points unless you re-enter the Edit mode. To exit Hot Cue mode while in the play screen simply press the Play

Button above the screen (not the main Play/Pause button!)

Using the HDC-3000

Hot Cue Menu

Cue

Cue 1 Empty Cue 2 2:34:06 Cue 3 2:49:05 Cue 4 Empty

Fig 12.1 - Entering the Hot Cue Menu. Press the Hot Cue but-

ton twice to use Hot Cues from the Play Screen. Using Hot

Cues from the Play Screen is the same as in the Cue Menu.

Hot Cues are saved to the MSD on a per-song basis, and are automatically recalled with each song if the AUTO RECALL option is turned on in the EDIT menu. They will remain in memory until they are deleted, so if you create a Hot Cue that you wish to save don’t worry-it’s already saved! Keep in mind that loading these points will create a slight pause with the loading of your songs, so if you are not needing to save these points you can leave it off to speed up song loading.

Fig 12.2 - Choose a number for your hot cue. Press your chosen number once to enter the hot cue in, and shift plus the number to delete.

Section Fourteen: Loop Mode

Loops are small repeating segments of a song that can be created, engaged and edited on the fly. With these, you can do everything from creating an extended intro to a song to mix into to extending a break in a song. To create a Loop, the first thing that needs to be done is to press the Loop button above the Jog Wheel-this will engage the Loop menu.

From the Loop menu, you can view both which Loop “slots” are open, as well as the in/out (start/stop) points of each loop. To create a loop, the first thing to do is choose a loop number. If there is no loop saved in the chosen position, press the chosen number (Multifunction Buttons 1-4) to create an in point. Press the number again to create an out point. The Loop will automatically be engaged, and will not exit till you press the Shift button plus the number of the chosen loop. To reloop, simply press the number again to reengage. To edit a Loop In/Out point, using the arrow keys scroll over to the option you wish to edit and use the Jog Wheel to edit an option. To delete, simply hold down Shift plus the num- ber of the Loop you wish to delete.

Using the HDC-3000

Seamless Loop Menu

Loop In Out Loop 1 3:21:03 3:23:62 Loop 2 3:35:05 3:45:06 Loop 3 3:56:34 3:59:05 Loop 4 Empty

Fig 13.1 - Entering the Loop Menu. Press the Loop button twice to use Loops from the Play screen. Looping from the play screen is the same as from the Loop menu.

Loops can also be created/edited from the play screen. To go into Loop mode in the Play screen, press the Loop button twice. You will see a small “Loop” symbol on the Play screen. Creating/editing/deleting Loops in this mode is the same as in the Edit screen-the main difference is you cannot edit in/out points unless you re-enter the edit mode.s. To exit Loop mode while in the Play screen simply press the Play Button above the screen (not the main Play/Pause button!)

Loops are saved to the MSD on a per-song basis if AUTO RECALL option is turned on in the EDIT menu. They will remain in memory until they are deleted, so if you create a Hot Cue that you wish to save don’t worry-it’s already saved!

Fig 13.2 - Choose a number for your loop and press the button twice, once to enter the start point and once to enter the end point. To exit press Shift+the loop number, and to reloop press the number again.

Using the HDC-3000

DSP Effects Menu

Section Fourteen: DSP Menu

DSP (Digital Signal Processing) effects are available at any time on the HDC3000 to alter your music in any way you choose. From filtering out certain frequencies, adding an echo or reversing audio, the only limit really is your creativity.

All HDC3000 effects can be divided into 2 categories. Category one includes all effects available without entering a menu-Scratch, Reverse, Master Tempo and Key Adjust. Category two includes the following-

" Filter (Low/Band/Highpass types selectable) " Flanger " Echo " Delay " Decimator " Vocoder " Vibrato " Phaser " Transform " AutoPan " Brake " Chorus

Filter Off

DSP Effects

Flanger Off Echo On

Delay On Decimator Off

Vocoder Off

Fig 14.1 - Entering the DSP Menu. Press the DSP button twice to use DSP effects from the Play screen.

Filter

Filter Type LPF Resonance 25 Dry/Wet 67 Tempo Auto

To engage an effect, first engage the DSP menu by pressing the DSP button. This will enter the DSP menu. From here, scroll down to the effect of your choice and press Enter. This will enter the DSP edit menu. Depending on which effect you choose, you can alter various parameters such as “frequency”, “type”, and “tempo” . The only shared parameter is “Dry/Wet” which controls the ratio between the original material and the effected signal.

DSP Effects can also be created/edited from the Play screen. To go into DSP mode in the Play screen, press the DSP button twice. You will see a small “DSP” symbol on the play screen. Creating/editing/deleting loops in this mode is the same as in the edit screen-the main difference is you cannot edit in/out points unless you re-enter the Edit mode. To exit DSP mode while in the play screen simply press the Play Button above the screen (not the main Play/Pause button!). To stay in DSP mode but turn off the selected DSP effect use the Left/Right arrow buttons to sellect “Pass” on the screen and press Enter.

All changes made to the default FX values are saved to the MSD and re-loaded upon start up of the unit. To discard these values and reset to the factory defaults, enter the Main Edit Menu and select “Restore Default”.

Left/Right - FX Parameter Edit

Fig 14.2 - Example of Filter Menu

Enter - On/Off

Up/Down - Wet/Dry Left/Right - DSP SelectSelect “Pass” to turn selected effect off.

Fig 14.3 - Navigation keypad functions in used for editing FX while in play mode.

Using the HDC-3000

Sample Menu

Section Fifteen: Sample Menu

The sample menu is much like the loop menu. Samples are small segments of audio material that can be played separately from the main audio material. These can be everything from loops to small vocal samples. To create a sample, first press the sample button to engage the sample menu. From there, you can choose to record a sample to a slot by pressing the corresponding number on the keypad, or using the navigation buttons plus the Shift button to engage the Sample Edit menu.

Each sample has two options for sample type, “Loop” or “One Shot”. A loop is a repeating segment of music, while a one shot will play once and disengage. If you have chosen either “One Shot” or “Loop” option, then you must press the number (Multifunction Buttons 1-4) of your chosen sample once to create the in point of your sample and once again to create the out point. Unlike the Seamless Loop option, if you have chosen a looping sample it will not be engaged automatically, but instead must be engaged by pressing the chosen number once again. To disengage, simply press the number once again. If you wish to delete the sample, hold the Shift button down along with the chosen sample number.

Samples can also be created/edited from the Play screen. To go into Sample mode in the play screen, press the Sample button twice. You will see a small “Sample” symbol on the play screen. Creating/ editing/ deleting Samples in this mode is the same as in the edit screen-the main difference is you cannot edit in/out points unless you re-enter the Edit mode.

Sample In Out Sample 1 3:21:03 3:23:62 Sample 2 3:35:05 3:45:06 Sample 3 3:56:34 3:59:05 Sample 4 Empty

Fig 15.1- Entering the Sample Menu. Press the Sample button twice to use Loops from the Play screen. Using Samples from the play screen is the same as from the Sample menu.

Sample Edit

Sample Mode One Dry/Wet 50/50

Fig 15.1 - Sample Edit Menu

Samples will remain in memory until the unit is shut down, and will carry over track to track unlike Hot Starts/Loops, which are saved on a Trackby-Track basis. All 4 samples can be from different songs, though once your 4 slots are filled then you must empty out a sample slot if you wish to record another.

Fig 15.2 - Choose a number and press the chosen button to record the start point of a sample.. Press it again to record the out point, at which point the sample will engage. To exit, press shift plus the number of the sample. To delete, press shift plus the number again.

Left/Right - Sample Wet/Dry

Up/Down - Loop/ One Shot

Left/Right - FF/REW Search

Fig 14.3 - Navigation keypad functions in used for editing FX while in play mode.

Section Sixteen: Firmware Updates

One of the most powerful features of the HDC-3000 is the capability to upgrade the internal software. This lends itself to the addition of new features and support, the optimization of current processes, and the capability to fix bugs as they arise.

Firmware updates will be issued periodically at http://www.cortexpro.com.

We suggest that you stay as current as possible with all updates in order to insure the highest level of functionality and compatibility that Cortex has to offer.

Using the HDC-3000

Firmware Updates

New update found

Date: 12/04/2007

Apply?

<YES> NO

Fig 16.1 - Automatic detection of new firmware, option to update

To check the version of firmware installed:

1. Power on the HDC-3000 with NO DEVICES CONNECTED.

2. At the prompt that says ‘Insert Devices,’ press the INFO button.

3. The screen will display the version number of the currently installed HDC-3000 firmware.

To update the firmware, follow these steps:

1. Using Internet Explorer or other web browser of your choice, download the latest firmware upgrade from http://www.cortex-pro.com.

2. Place the file in the root directory of your external USB storage device.

3. Connect the USB storage device to the HDC-3000, and select it from the Device Menu (during startup). Make sure your HDC-3000 is connected to a stable power source, where there is no potential of the unit losing power during update.

4. When the HDC-3000 detects the firmware in the root directory of the USB storage device, it will ask you if you want to apply the update. You must answer YES. If the version of firmware on the storage device is the same or older than what you have, it will be ignored.

New update found

Date: 12/04/2007

Apply?

<YES> NO

Fig 16.2 - Automatic detection of new firmware, option to update

Updating: Stage 1/8

#####################

Fig 16.3 - Updating the firmware in 8 stages

(Unit powers off)

5. When updating, the unit will go through 8 stages. This will take only a few minutes. If the power is interrupted or the USB device is removed during this process, it can damage the operating system of the unit.

6. When the update is completed, the unit will shut itself down. You must press power to restart the unit. Once the unit has booted up again, the new software will take effect. You may then erase the firmware update from your USB device at your convenience (it will not be detected again).

Fig 16.4 - Power shuts off completely when the update is complete

Section Seventeen: Troubleshooting

Using the HDC-3000

Troubleshooting

Error Messages

If you experience an error message while navigating the unit, here are a few explanations of those errors and how they can be corrected. For a more complete troubleshooting guide, consult our website at http://www.cortex-pro.com.

“Can’t access device” will be displayed because of one of the follow- ingproblems with the storage device:

- Device is write protected In the case of a USB flash drive, some units have a switch to enable write access.

- Device has already been ejected using the eject procedure. Remove the USB device and plug it back in.

- Device is using an unsupported file system The file systems supported are FAT32, NTFS, HFS+, CDFS, and UDFS.

- Device is not able to run without a proprietary hardware driver Some devices require proprietary hardware device drivers. Although with the introduction of USB, this is less common, it still sometimes presents an issue. These devices are not compatible with the HDC-1000.

- Device has been removed while before using the eject procedure If the device is removed from the USB port without using the proper ejection procedure, it is possible that the unit will not detect the absence of a USB storage device, and will try to access the port anyway.

- If the device is powered by an external power supply, make sure that the unit is receiving power.

- If the device has just been plugged in, and it was immediately selected, the drive might not be ready to be accessed. Wait 10 seconds and try again. “Error creating DB” may be displayed if there is not a sufficient amount of space left on your storage device to create the necessary database files required to search through your music library.

- If you are out of space, try to delete some files and try the database process again.

- Check the USB cable that is being used to connect the storage device to the HDC-1000.

- If the device is powered by an external power supply, make sure that the unit is receiving power.

Error creating DB.

Please make sure

that device is OK and check space.

Fig 17.1 - Error message, drive full or not responding

From time to time new features will be added to your unit. For the most up to date information and help, please visit us on the web at www.cortex-pro.com.

Other (Specifications)

Specifications

1. General

Type of unit.................................................Streaming Digital Audio Controller

Format compatibility.......................................................MP3, WAV, CD-Audio

MP3 format......................................8 kbps ~ 320 kbps, CBR/VBR, 44.1 kHz

WAV format....................................................................44.1 kHz, 16 bit stereo

Instant Start.........................................................................................<0.1 second

Pitch ranges.....................................................................................4, 8, 16, 24%

Pitch increment.....................................................................0.05% at 4 and 8%

.............................................................................................0.1% at 16 and 24%

Power...........................................................................AC 100~240V, 50/60 Hz

Power consumption....................................................................................12 watts

Operating environment temp................+5º C to +35º C (+41º F - +95º F)

Operating environment humidity..............................................................5-85%

Weight.........................................................................................................3.75 lbs

........................................................................................................................1.7 kgs

Dimensions...........................................................................19 x 5.2 x 3.6 inches

.................................................................................................482 x 132 x 91mm

2. Audio output section

Audio output................................................................................4 Channel (2x2)

Output level...................................................................1.2 V RMS (1 kHz, 0dB)

Output connectors............................................................Unbalanced RCA Type

Frequency response.....................................................................20 Hz - 22 kHz

S/N ratio..........................................................................................................90dB

Total harmonic distortion..........................................................................<0.05%

3. USB interface section

Connector type....................................................................................USB Type A

USB protocol support.....................1.0, 1.1 (Full Speed) and 2.0 (Hi-Speed)

Number of ports.....................................................................................................5

Maximum number of connected devices (via USB hub, sold separately)....

.....................................................................................................4 (Plus Keyboard)

File system support.......................................FAT32, NTFS, HFS+, CDFS, UDFS

4. Included Accessories

RCA audio cables...................................................................................................2

Power supply...........................................................................................................1

Tabletop mounting stands....................................................................................2

Mounting hardware for tabletop stands............................................................1

Operating instructions............................................................................................1

USB port protector cap.........................................................................................1

5. Replaceable Parts (order from GCI by part number if needed)

Power supply......................................................................USA 110v 059-370-R

....................................................................................VDE (Europe) 059-371-R

.........................................................................................................UK 059-372-R

................................................................................................JIS (Japan) 059-373

Power cable strain relief clamp.........................................................049-231-R

Tabletop mounting stands................022-893-R (left) and 022-894-R (right)

Mounting stand rubber pads (uses 2)...............................................049-232-R

Mounting stand screw BTS-3.4x10 AB (uses 4)............................111-059A-R

Mounting stand plain washer PW 4.0MM (uses 4)........................142-044-R

Mounting stand plain washer PW4.2x12x0.5t (uses 4)..............142-045-R

USB port protector cap........................................................................003-807-R

Pitch control knob..................................................................................002-743-R

Should your Cortex product require warranty or non-warranty service in the USA, or if you wish to purchase replacement parts, operating instructions, or accessories, please contact GCI Technologies at the phone number listed below:

732-346-0061

Do not, under any circumstance, ship your product to GCI without first calling the Technical Support Deparment at the number listed above. Failure to establish an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) number prior to shipping your product will delay your repair indefinitely. GCI reserves the right to refuse all packages that arrive without an RMA number.

For warranty information, please refer to the warranty page included in this manual.

Once an RMA number is established, your unit should be sent to the address specified by your customer service representative, with the RMA clearly written on the outer carton:

For support or repair outside of the USA, please visit the Cortex website at http://www

.cortex-pro.com.

GCI Technologies USA: +1 (732)346-0061

GCI Latin America and Carribean: +1 (305)592-4746 GCI United Kingdom LTD: +44 (0)87 087-00880 GCI France + 33 1 69 79 97 72 GCI SA (Spain): +34 93 436 37 00 GCI GmbH (Germany): +49 8131 39171-0

USA Warranty Info

Cortex products are designed and manufactured to the highest standards in professional audio. With proper care and maintenance, your product will provide years of reliable service. Please register your product online at http://www.cortex-pro.com

Limited Warranty:

In the USA, Cortex guarantees its products against defects in workmanship for the period of One (1) year* from the original date of purchase.

This limited warranty does not cover damage or failure caused by abuse, misuse, abnormal use, faulty installation, improper maintenance or any repairs other than those provided by an authorized service center.

There are no obligations of liability on the part of GCI, Cortex, or any of its retailers for consequential damages arising out of or in connection with the use or performance of the product or other indirect damages with respect to loss of property, revenues, profit, or costs of removal, installation, or reinstallation. All implied warranties for GCI, including implied warranties for fitness, are limited in duration to One (1) year from the original date of purchase, unless otherwise mandated by local statutes.

Returning Your Product for Service:

In the U.S.A., please call our helpful Customer Service Representatives at (732) 346-0061, and they will be happy to give you a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and the address of an authorized service center closest to you.

After receiving an RMA, include a copy of the original sales receipt, with defective product and a description of the defect. Send by insured freight to GCI Technologies Corporation, and use the address provided by your customer service representative. Your RMA must be written on the outside

of the package, or processing will be delayed indefinitely! GCI reserves the right to refuse all packages that arrive without an RMA number.

Service covered under warranty will be paid for by GCI and returned to you. For non-warrantied products, GCI will repair your unit after payment is received. Repair charges do not include return freight.

Your warranty is valid only in the country where the unit has been purchased. Repairs performed outside of the country of purchase will be treated as out-of-warranty.

For warranty service, you pay for shipping to GCI; we pay for return shipping within the Continental United States. Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Canada, Bahamas, and the Virgin Islands will be c

Please allow 2-4 weeks for return of your product. Under normal circumstances your product will spend no more than 10 working days at GCI. We are not responsible for shipping times.

For repairs and warranty information outside of the USA, please call the GCI affiliate closest to where you reside, listed on the specifications page of this manual (page 30), or visit the Cortex website at http://www

* Unless otherwise mandated by local statutes.

harged for freight.

.cortex-pro.com.

For Your Records

Model Number of Product:

(HDC-1000, HDC-3000, HD-TT5000)

Serial Number of Product:

found on rear panel of unit

Original Purchase Date:

Name of Retailer:

Please register your warranty online at http://www.cortex-pro.com

Cortex HDC3000 User manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual