E-MU Systems Orbit 3 Owner's Manual

Operation Manual

©2001, E-MU Systems, Inc. d.b.a. E-MU / ENSONIQ. All rights reserved.

FI12076 Rev. A

E-MU World Headquarters Europe, Africa, Middle East
E-MU / ENSONIQ E-MU / ENSONIQ

P.O. Box 660015 Suite 6, Adam Ferguson House
Scotts Valley, CA USA Eskmills Industrial Park
95067-0015 Musselburgh, East Lothian
Telephone: [phone] Scotland, EH21 7PQ
Fax: [phone] Tel: [phone]
Internet: www.emu.com Fax: [phone]

The following are registered worldwide trademarks owned and/or exclusively
licensed by E-MU Systems, Inc.: E-MU® and E-MU Systems®. All other trade­marks are the property of their respective holders.

Important Notice:

In order to obtain warranty service on your Orbit-3 unit, the serial number
sticker must be intact and you must have a sales receipt or other proof of
purchase. If there is no serial number sticker on the Orbit-3, please contact
E-MU Systems at once.

This product is covered under one or more of the following U.S. patents:
4,404,529; 4,506,579; 4,699,038; 4,987,600; 5,013,105; 5,072,645;
5,111,727; 5,144,676; 5,170,367; 5,248,845; 5,303,309; 5,317,104;
5,342,990; 5,430,244 and foreign patents and/or pending patents. All other
trademarks belong to their respective companies. Specifications and features
are subject to change without notice.

Orbit-3 Operation Manual

i

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Introduction ............................................................................ 1

Product Description ............................................................................. 1

Overview ............................................................................................. 3

Important Safety Instructions ................................................. 4

Foreign Language Warnings - German .................................. 7

Foreign Language Warnings - French .................................. 10

Setup ..................................................................................... 15

Unpacking ......................................................................................... 15

Connection Instructions..................................................................... 16

Basic Setup ................................................................................................16

Studio Setup .............................................................................................. 17

Power Up! .................................................................................................18

Instant Gratification ........................................................................... 19

Playing Demo Sequences ...........................................................................19

Auditioning Presets ....................................................................................19

Selecting and Quick Editing Presets ...........................................................20

Playing BEATS ............................................................................................22

Exploring the Master Arpeggiator ..............................................................24

Multi-Channel Arpeggiator ........................................................................25

Basic Operations ................................................................... 27

Front Panel ........................................................................................ 27

Volume Control .........................................................................................27

Master Button ............................................................................................27

Edit Button ................................................................................................27

Control Button ..........................................................................................27

Audition Button .........................................................................................28

Left/Right Cursor Buttons ..........................................................................28

Save/Copy Button .....................................................................................28

Home/Enter Button ...................................................................................28

Data Entry Control .....................................................................................29

ii

E-MU Systems

Table of Contents

Front Panel Controller Modes.............................................................29

Real-time Control ...................................................................................... 29

Quick Edit ................................................................................................. 30

Deep Edit Mode ........................................................................................ 30

Main Screen....................................................................................... 32

MIDI Channel Selection .............................................................................32

Preset Selection ......................................................................................... 32

Channel Volume ........................................................................................ 33

Channel Pan .............................................................................................. 34

Channel Arpeggiator ................................................................................. 34

Sound Navigator................................................................................ 35

Preset Category ......................................................................................... 35

Instrument Category ................................................................................. 35

Multitimbral Operation ...................................................................... 36

Arpeggiator/Beats Menu .......................................................37

Base Tempo (Master Clock) ....................................................................... 38

SuperBEATS........................................................................................ 38

BEATS Mode .............................................................................................. 41

Status ..................................................................................................... 41

Beats Channel ...................................................................................... 41

Trigger Channel .................................................................................... 41

BEATS Controllers ......................................................................................43

Beat Velocity Group 1-4 ........................................................................ 43

Beat Xpose Group 1-4 ............................................................................ 43

Beat Busy ...............................................................................................43

Beat Variation ......................................................................................... 44

Beat Variation.......................................................................................... 44

Beats Trigger Layout .................................................................................. 45

1-Bar Trigger Option .............................................................................. 45

Beats Trigger Offset ................................................................................... 46

Beats Part Velocity ..................................................................................... 46

Beats Part Transpose .................................................................................. 47

Beats Part Group ....................................................................................... 48

Master Riff ................................................................................................. 48

Riff Tempo ................................................................................................ 49

Riff Controllers ........................................................................................... 49

MIDI Song Start ........................................................................................ 50

Arp/Riff MIDI Out ...................................................................................... 50

Arpeggiators ......................................................................................51

Arp Controllers .......................................................................................... 52

Arp Resolution ....................................................................................... 52

Arp Extension ......................................................................................... 52

Arp Velocity ........................................................................................... 52

Arp Gate ................................................................................................52

Arp Interval ........................................................................................... 52

Orbit-3 Operation Manual

iii

Table of Contents

Master Arpeggiator Parameters.......................................................... 52

Status ........................................................................................................53

Mode ........................................................................................................53

Note Value ................................................................................................54

Arpeggiator Pattern Speed .........................................................................54

Pattern ......................................................................................................54

Velocity .....................................................................................................55

Gate Time ..................................................................................................55

Extension Count ........................................................................................56

Extension Interval ......................................................................................56

Sync ..........................................................................................................57

Pre-Delay ...................................................................................................57

Duration ....................................................................................................58

Post-Delay .................................................................................................58

Recycle ......................................................................................................59

Keyboard Thru ...........................................................................................59

Latch .........................................................................................................59

Key Range .................................................................................................60

Send MIDI System Exclusive Data ...................................................... 60

Editing a User Arpeggiator Pattern .............................................................61

Pattern Step Number .................................................................................61

Key ............................................................................................................61

Key Offset ...............................................................................................62

Tie ..........................................................................................................62

Rest ........................................................................................................62

Skip ........................................................................................................62

End ........................................................................................................62

Velocity .....................................................................................................63

Duration ....................................................................................................63

Repeat .......................................................................................................63

User Pattern Name ....................................................................................64

Multi-Channel Arpeggiating............................................................... 65

iv E-MU Systems

Using a MIDI Interface to Channelize Data......................................... 66

Master Menu ......................................................................... 67

Defining Master Parameters ............................................................... 68

Transpose/Tune .........................................................................................68

Bend Range ...............................................................................................68

Velocity Curve ...........................................................................................69

Mix Output ...............................................................................................70

Master Effects .................................................................................... 72

Effects Mode ..............................................................................................72

Effects Multi Mode Control ........................................................................72

Master FXA Algorithm ...............................................................................73

A Effect Types .........................................................................................73

FXA Parameters: Decay/HF Damping FxB -> FxA ........................................74

FXA Send Amounts ....................................................................................74

Table of Contents

Master FXB Algorithm ...............................................................................74

B Effect Types .........................................................................................75

FXB Parameters: Feedback/LFO Rate Delay Time ....................................... 75

FXB Send Amounts ....................................................................................75

MIDI Parameters ................................................................................76

MIDI Mode ............................................................................................... 76

MIDI SysEx ID ............................................................................................ 76

MIDI Enable ..............................................................................................77

MIDI Program Change -> Preset ................................................................ 77

Receive Program Change .......................................................................... 78

Real-time Controller Assignment ............................................................... 78

MIDI Footswitch Assign ............................................................................. 79

Tempo Controller ......................................................................................80

Knob Preset Quick-Edit .............................................................................. 80

Knobs Deep Edit ........................................................................................ 81

Knobs/Riff MIDI Out .................................................................................. 81

Preset Edit All Layers Enable .......................................................................81

Front Panel Knob Calibration .....................................................................82

MIDI SysEx Packet Delay ............................................................................ 83

Send MIDI System Exclusive Data .............................................................. 83

User Key Tuning ........................................................................................ 85

Output Format .......................................................................................... 85

Base Tempo .............................................................................................. 86

Screen Viewing Angle ................................................................................86

Programming Basics ..............................................................87

Modulation ........................................................................................ 88

Modulation Sources ........................................................................... 89

Random Sources ....................................................................................... 90

Modulation PatchCords...................................................................... 90

Envelope Generators .......................................................................... 91

Tempo-based Envelopes ......................................................................... 92

Envelope Repeat ..................................................................................... 92

Low Frequency Oscillators (LFOs)....................................................... 93

Clock Modulation............................................................................... 94

Modulation Destinations .................................................................... 96

Modulation Processors ....................................................................... 97

Preset Modulation Processors ............................................................. 99

Using the Modulation Processors .............................................................101

More Examples ........................................................................................ 103

Dynamic Filters ................................................................................ 105

What is a Filter? ....................................................................................... 106

Parametric Filters ..................................................................................... 109

The Z-Plane Filter ....................................................................................110

Signal Flow ...................................................................................... 111

Orbit-3 Operation Manual v

Table of Contents

MIDI Channels & Real-time Controls................................................ 112

Bank Select Commands ...........................................................................114

Stereo Mix Outputs ......................................................................... 115

Edit Menu ............................................................................ 117

Preset Name ............................................................................................118

Four Layer Architecture .................................................................... 119

Selecting Layers .......................................................................................119

Defining Layer Parameters ............................................................... 120

Selecting an Instrument ...........................................................................120

Sound Navigator ..................................................................................120

Defining Key Range .................................................................................121

Defining the Velocity Crossfade Range ..................................................... 124

Defining the Real-time Crossfade Range ..................................................126

Transposing the Instrument .....................................................................129

Tuning .....................................................................................................130

Background: Transpose vs. Coarse Tuning ............................................130

Amplifier ..................................................................................................130

Volume Envelope .....................................................................................131

Selecting the Mode ..............................................................................131

Defining the Volume Envelope .............................................................132

Chorusing the Layer ................................................................................133

Sound Start Offset and Delay ...................................................................133

Non-Transpose Mode ..............................................................................134

Solo Mode ...............................................................................................134

Assign Group ...........................................................................................135

Glide .......................................................................................................136

Z-Plane Filters ..........................................................................................136

Orbit-3 Filter Types ..................................................................................137

Filter Types ...........................................................................................137

Filter Parameters ...................................................................................139

Filter Envelope .........................................................................................139

Defining the Filter Envelope .................................................................. 141

Auxiliary Envelope ...................................................................................141

Low Frequency Oscillators (LFOs) ............................................................141

Shape ...................................................................................................142

Sync .....................................................................................................143

Rate ......................................................................................................143

Delay ....................................................................................................144

Variation ...............................................................................................145

PatchCords ..............................................................................................146

Modulator Polarity ................................................................................147

Pitch Bend Range ....................................................................................149

Mix Output .............................................................................................149

Common Preset Parameters............................................................. 150

Preset Effects ............................................................................................150

FXA Algorithm .........................................................................................152

A Effect Types .......................................................................................152

vi E-MU Systems

Table of Contents

FXA Parameters ....................................................................................... 153

FXA Send Amounts .................................................................................. 153

FXB Algorithm ......................................................................................... 153

B Effect Types .......................................................................................153

FXB Parameters .......................................................................................154

FXB Send Amounts ..................................................................................154

Preset Patchcords .................................................................................... 155

Initial Controller Amount ......................................................................... 156

Keyboard Tuning ..................................................................................... 157

Preset Links ............................................................................................. 159

Preset Tempo Offset ................................................................................ 160

Audition Riff Selection .............................................................................160

Play Solo Layers ....................................................................................... 160

Programming Tutorial .........................................................161

Editing Presets.................................................................................. 161

Changing the Instrument ........................................................................ 161

Changing the Tuning of an Instrument ...................................................162

Chorus .................................................................................................... 163

Volume Envelope ..................................................................................... 163

Working with Filters ................................................................................. 165

Adding the Filter Envelope ...................................................................166

Changing Filter Types .......................................................................... 168

Envelope Repeat ................................................................................... 169

Practice Modulating ................................................................................ 169

Troubleshooting ...................................................................................... 170

Linking Presets .................................................................................171

Effects ...................................................................................173

Effects Overview...............................................................................173

The Effects Sends ..................................................................................... 173

Effect Types...................................................................................... 175

A Effect Types ....................................................................................... 175

B Effect Types .......................................................................................175

Effect Parameters .....................................................................................175

Decay ................................................................................................... 176

High Frequency Damping ....................................................................176

Feedback .............................................................................................. 176

LFO Rate ..............................................................................................176

Delay ................................................................................................... 176

Effects Programmed in the Preset ..................................................... 177

Master Effects................................................................................... 178

Effects Mode ...........................................................................................180

Flexible Effects Control ............................................................................ 180

Using the Effects Channel Settings in Multi Mode ................................182

Effect B Into Effect A ................................................................................ 182

Orbit-3 Operation Manual vii

Table of Contents

General Effect Descriptions .............................................................. 184

Reverb .....................................................................................................184

Chorus ....................................................................................................185

Doubling .................................................................................................185

Slapback ..................................................................................................185

Stereo Flanger .........................................................................................185

Delay .......................................................................................................186

Stereo Delay ............................................................................................186

Panning Delay .........................................................................................186

Dual Tap ..................................................................................................186

Vibrato ....................................................................................................186

Distortion ................................................................................................186

Save/Copy Menu ................................................................. 187

Saving a Preset................................................................................. 187

Copying Information ....................................................................... 188

Copy Preset ............................................................................................. 188

Copy Layer ..............................................................................................189

Copy PatchCords .....................................................................................190

Copy Preset PatchCords ...........................................................................190

Copy Arpeggiator Settings .......................................................................191

Copy Arpeggiator Pattern ........................................................................191

Copy Preset Bank .....................................................................................192

Multisetups...................................................................................... 192

Restoring Multisetups ..............................................................................193

Multisetup Name .....................................................................................193

Saving Multisetups ..................................................................................194

Create Random Preset .............................................................................194

Copy User Bank to Flash ..........................................................................195

Rename Flash SIMM ................................................................................196

Duplicate Flash ........................................................................................197

Appendix ............................................................................. 199

Front Panel Knob Functions ............................................................. 199

Presets ............................................................................................. 200

TeCnO Preset Categories .........................................................................200

Beat Garden Preset Categories .................................................................201

Preset Listing.................................................................................... 202

TeCnO ROM ............................................................................................202

Beat Garden ROM ...................................................................................206

Instrument Listing............................................................................ 210

TeCnO ROM ............................................................................................210

Beat Garden ROM ...................................................................................215

Riff Listing........................................................................................ 218

TeCnO ROM ............................................................................................218

Beat Garden ROM ...................................................................................219

viii E-MU Systems

Table of Contents

Arp Listing........................................................................................ 223

TeCnO ROM ...........................................................................................223

Beat Garden ROM ................................................................................... 224

Example Percussion Maps ................................................................ 225

TeCnO ROM

909-X Dance ........................................................................................... 225

An Example Using Partial Kits ..................................................................226

808 General MIDI 1 ................................................................................. 226

TeCnO Kit ............................................................................................... 227

909 Bass Drum ........................................................................................ 227

Keys Percussion ....................................................................................... 227

TeCnO GM ............................................................................................. 228

BEAT ROM

git:Funk Groover ..................................................................................... 229

kit:Percussion 1 .......................................................................................229

kit:Percussion 2 .......................................................................................230

kit:Percussion 3 .......................................................................................230

kit:Cymbals & Rides ................................................................................ 231

kit:Hi Hats ............................................................................................... 231

Velocity Curves................................................................................. 232

PatchCord Amount Chart................................................................. 234

MIDI ................................................................................................235

Received Channel Commands ................................................................. 241

Technical Specifications.................................................................... 243

Sound Design .................................................................................. 244

Warranty.......................................................................................... 245

Index ....................................................................................247

Warranty Card .....................................................................255

Orbit-3 Operation Manual ix

Table of Contents

x

E-MU Systems

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the Orbit-3, 128-Voice Super Synth
Module. Orbit-3 takes over where E-MU’s legendary Orbit classic left off,
adding a blazing fast CPU for tight MIDI timing, our ultra-powerful Proteus
2000 synth engine and 64 MB of hot new sounds. This baby was designed
for maximum performance , so make sure to try out all the controller knobs
on each preset.

Product Description

Orbit-3 contains 64MB of electronica sounds: TeCnO Synth Construction
Yard and BEAT Garden, created especially for E-MU Systems by Dutch
sound designer extraordinaire Rob Papen. Need more sounds? New sounds
can be added as easily as plugging in a new 16MB or 32MB SIMM module
into one of the two additional user-upgradable sound SIMM sockets. Many
sound sets are available now, with more coming all the time, or you can
create your own custom ROMs using E-MU’s E4 Ultra samplers.

Orbit-3 contains 512 user presets and can hold literally thousands of
factory presets. (ROM presets are automatically added when sound SIMMs are

installed. As an example, a 32 MB SIMM may contain up to 1024 ROM presets.)

Orbit-3’s Sound Navigator makes it easy to find the exact sound you want.
It’s powerful, yet simple to use.

Orbit-3 contains E-MU’s SuperBEATS Mode, which is an easy and fun way
to create dynamic, original music. With SuperBEATS, you trigger, latch and
unlatch synced loops and grooves from your keyboard. Simply select a
“bts:” preset and you’re ready to groove! Then use Orbit-3’s performance
controls to alter and mutate the rhythm or the sound itself.

Then there’s Orbit-3’s revolutionary Rhythmic Pattern Generator/Arpeg­giator which can play up to 16 synchronized arpeggiator patterns at once
using a different sound for each! Patterns can be edited using pattern flow
commands such as: delay for 2 bars, play for 4 bars, hold for 2 beats and
repeat. You can program or download 100 user patterns in addition to the
200 factory patterns.

Orbit-3 Operation Manual 1

Introduction
Product Description

2

The extremely flexible yet easy to use 4-layer synthesizer voices make it
easy to build sounds of any kind. Layers can be switched or crossfaded
using key position, velocity, real-time controllers or any modulation source.
Orbit-3 also contains 50 different 2nd to 12th order resonant & modeling
filters which are used to shape and modify the waveforms contained in 32
megabytes (MB) of ROM.

Sixty four modulation sources include three multistage envelopes and two
LFOs per layer, as well as full MIDI control over virtually every parameter.
The digital patch bay, with 24 cords per layer, (and 12 more cords per
preset) lets you connect modulation sources to 64 destinations in any
imaginable way. The patch bay contains a set of arithmetic modifiers,
letting you create complex synthesis models. Synth parameters as well as
arpeggiator and BEAT tempos can be controlled from Orbit-3’s internal
clock (or an external MIDI clock). Up to 8 LFOs and 12 envelopes can be
perfectly synchronized at different rates. This is an extremely powerful
synthesizer!

Four front panel real-time controllers give you control over 12 user­selectable parameters. The real-time knobs can adjust multiple parameters
at once, allowing complex levels of control. For example, one knob can
simultaneously turn up filter cutoff, while detuning one sample, and
adjusting the release time of the volume envelope. Virtually every synth
parameter in Orbit-3 is controllable using the real-time knobs or by any
internal or external control source.

Six analog outputs let you process separate sounds externally. The built-in
effect returns allow you to use external effects with Orbit-3 without the
need for a separate mixer.

Once you have created your preset, you can add richness to your sound
using Orbit-3’s 24-bit stereo effects. You can choose a different effects setup
for each preset from over 60 algorithms. Orbit-3’s effects section is actually
two separate effects processors with control over each wet/dry mix level on
four effects sends. Effects Processor “A” contains primarily ambiance
algorithms like reverb and delays, while effects processor “B” contains
primarily spectral algorithms such as chorus, flange, phase, distortion, and
delay. Effects can be linked to each preset or used globally to further
enhance your sound.

The S/PDIF stereo digital output lets you connect to other digital
equipment such as digital mixers or external effect devices, keeping your
signal entirely in the digital domain.

E-MU Systems

Other features include multiple solo, voice assignment and performance
modes for expressive control, 12 user-definable alternate tunings, and, of
course, an extensive MIDI implementation.

Introduction

Overview

Overview

This is the Getting Started Manual for setting up and playing Orbit-3. The
first part of the manual describes how to unpack and setup the hardware.
The next chapters provide step-by-step instructions for the most common
and widely used features of Orbit-3. This section also defines each of the
parameters and provides information on how to use them.

This operation manual is also provided to you in pdf format on
CD-ROM. The CD-ROM contains pdf files for both Mac and PC as well as
the complete MIDI SysEx specification and a software downloading tool
which allows you to retrieve the latest software and new features from the
world wide web.

Orbit-3 Operation Manual 3

Important Safety Instructions

Use in countries other than the U.S.A. may require the use of a different
line cord or attachment plug, or both. To reduce the risk of fire or electric
shock, refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Do not expose this
product to rain or moisture. There are no user serviceable parts or adjust­ments inside the unit.

Grounding

This symbol is intended to

alert you to the presence of

Instructions

important operating and

maintenance (servicing)

instructions in the literature

accompanying the unit.

Danger!

This symbol is intended to

Caution!

alert you 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.

This product must be grounded. If it should malfunction or break down,
grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current, reducing
the risk of electric shock. This product is equipped with a cord having an
equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be
plugged into an appropriate outlet properly installed and grounded in
accordance with all local codes and ordinances.

Improper connection of the equipment’s grounding conductor can result in
the risk of electric shock. Check with a qualified electrician or service
personnel if you are in doubt as to whether the product is properly
grounded. Do not modify the plug provided with this product. If it will not
fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified technician.

If your Orbit-3 (Model Number 9099) is rack mounted, you must use a
standard 19 inch open frame rack. Screw-on rack mount ears are provided
for this purpose.

Orbit-3 Operation Manual 4

User Maintenance Instructions

Important Safety Instructions

User Maintenance Instructions

1.

The Orbit-3 should be kept clean and dust free. Periodically wipe the

unit with a clean, lint free cloth. Do not use solvents or cleaners.

2.

There are no user lubrication or adjustment requirements.

Caution -.

These servicing instructions are for use by qualified personnel only. To
reduce the risk of electric shock, do not perform any servicing other than that
contained in these operating instructions unless you are qualified to do so. Refer
all servicing to qualified service personnel.

INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE,
ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS.

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS: When using electric products, basic precau-

tions should always be adhered to, including the following:

Read all instructions before using Orbit-3.

1.

To reduce the risk of injury, close supervision is necessary when using

2.

Orbit-3 near children.
Do not use Orbit-3 near water — for example near a bathtub,

3.

washbowl, kitchen sink, in a wet basement, on a wet bar, or near or in a
swimming pool. Do not expose the unit to drips or splashes.

The Orbit-3 should be situated so that its location or position does not

4.

interfere with its proper ventilation.
The Orbit-3 should be located away from heat sources such as radiators,

5.

heat registers, fireplaces, stoves, or ovens.
The Orbit-3 should be connected only to a power supply of the type

6.

described in the operating instructions and marked on the product.
Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not

7.

spilled into the enclosure of Orbit-3 through openings.
This Orbit-3 may be equipped with a polarized line plug (one blade

8.

wider that the other). This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert
this plug into the outlet, do not defeat the safety purpose of the
plug.Contact an electrician to replace your obsolete outlet.

Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at

9.

plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
unit.

Unplug the Orbit-3 from the power outlet during lightning storms or

10.

when left unused for a long period of time.
This product, in combination with an amplifier and headphones and

11.

speakers, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause
permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for a long period of time at a
high volume level or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience
any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, consult an audiologist.

Only use attachments and accessories specified by E-mu Systems.

12.

The Orbit-3 should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:

13.

Orbit-3 Operation Manual 5

Important Safety Instructions
Radio and Television Interference

A. The power supply cord has been damaged; or
B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the unit; or
C. The unit has been exposed to rain; or
D. The unit has been dropped or the enclosure damaged; or
E. The Orbit-3 does not operate normally or exhibits a marked change

in performance.

All servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.

14.

Save These Instructions.

6

•

•

•

•

•

Radio and Television Interference

The equipment described in this manual generates and uses radio­frequency energy. If it is not installed and used properly —that is, in strict
accordance with our instructions— it may cause interference with radio
and television reception.

This equipment has been tested and complies with the limits for a Class B
computing device in accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of Part
15 of the FCC rules. These rules are designed to provide reasonable
protection against such interference in a residential installation. However,
there is no guarantee that the interference will not occur in a particular
installation, especially if a “rabbit ear” TV antenna is used.

If Orbit-3 does cause interference to radio or television reception, you can
try to correct the interference by using one or more of the following
measures:

Turn the television or radio antenna until the interference stops.
Move Orbit-3 to one side or the other of the television or radio.
Move Orbit-3 farther away from the television or radio.
Plug Orbit-3 into an outlet on a different circuit than the television or

radio.

Consider installing a rooftop antenna with a coaxial lead-in between the

antenna and television set.

E-MU Systems

Foreign Language Warnings - German

Wichtige Sicherheitsvorschriften

Foreign Language Warnings

- German

Wichtige
Sicherheits­vorschriften

Erdungsin-
struktionen

Dieses Symbol weist den

Anwender auf wichtige

Gebrauchs- und Service-

Vorschriften in den beilieg-

Gefahr

enden Drucksachen.

In Ländern ausserhalb den U.S.A. können andere Kabel oder Stecker
notwendig werden. Zur Verminderung des Risikos von Feuer oder eines
elektrischen Schlages übergebe man den Service an qualifizierte Fachleute.
Das Gerät niemals Regen oder Nässe aussetzen.

Das Gerät muss geerdet sein. Bei einem Defekt oder Ausfall bietet Erdung
dem elektrischen Strom den Weg des geringsten Widerstandes und
reduziert das Risiko eines Schlages. Dieses Gerät ist mit einem geerdeten
Kabel und Stecker ausgerüstet. Der Stecker muss in eine passende,
einwandfrei montierte und geerdete Steckdose in Übereinstimmung mit
den örtlichen Vorschriften eingeführt werden.

Unvorschriftsgemässer Anschluss des Gerätes kann zum Risiko eines
elektrischen Schlages führen. Im Zweifelsfalle über die ordnungsgemässe
Erdung soll ein qualifizierter Elektriker oder eine Serviecestelle beigezogen
werden. Ändern Sie den mitgelieferten Stecker nicht. Sollte er nicht in die
Steckdose passen, soll die einwandfreie Installation durch einen qualifi­zierten Techniker erfolgen.

Vorsicht

Dieses Symbol verweist auf

nicht-isolierte Stromspan-

nungen im Geräte-Innern,

welche zu einem elektrischen

Schlag führen könnten.

Wird der Orbit-3 (Modell Nummer 9099) in einem Rackgestell montiert,
muss ein offener 19-Zollrahmen verwendet werden.

Orbit-3 Operation Manual 7

Foreign Language Warnings - German
Unterhaltsinstruktionen für anwender

Unterhaltsin-

1.

struktionen
für anwender

2.

3.

Orbit-3 soll sauber und staubfrei gehalten werden. Das Gerät mit einem
sauberen und säurefreien Tuch periodisch abreiben. Keine Lösungs­oder Reinigungsmittel anwenden.

Schmieren und Justieren sind nicht notwendig.
Bei weiteren Servicefragen wende man sich an eine qualifizierte Service-

stelle.

8

Vorsicht

Diese Gebrauchsanweisungen sind nur für qualifizierte Techniker
beabsichtigt. Um die Gefahr eines elektrischen Schlages zu vermeiden,
sollen Sie keine Arbeit unternehmen, die nicht in diesen Instruktionen
vorgeschrieben ist. Wenden Sie Sich bei weiteren Servicefragen an eine
qualifizierte Servicestelle.

INSTRUKTIONEN BETR. FEUERRISIKO,
ELEKTROSCHOCK ODER VERLETZUNG VON
PERSONEN

WARNUNG; Beim Einsatz elektrischer Geräte sollten
folgende Vorsichtsmassregeln stets beachtet werden:

1.

Lesen Sie vor dem Einschalten des Orbit-3 alle Instruktionen.

2.

Zur Vermeidung von Verletzungsrisiken müssen Kinder bei einge­schaltetem Orbit-3 sorgfältig überwacht werden.

3.

Orbit-3 nicht in der Nähe von Wasser in Betrieb nehmen -- z.B. in der
Nähe von Badewannen, Waschschüsseln, auf nassen Gestellen oder am
Swimmingpool.

4.

Orbit-3 stets so aufstellen, dass seine Belüftung nicht beeinträchtigt
wird.

5.

Orbit-3 nicht in der Nähe von Hitze aufstellen, wie Heizkörper, offenem
Feuer, Öfen oder von Backöfen.

6.

Orbit-3 ausschliesslich mit einem Netzgerät gemäss Bedienungsanle­itung und Gerätemarkierung verwenden.

7.

Dieses Gerät kann bei Verwendung von Kopfhörern und Verstärkern
hohe Lautpegel erzeugen, welche zu bleibenden Gehörschäden führen.
Arbeiten Sie nicht während längerer Zeit mit voller Lautstärke oder
hohem Lautpegel. Stellen Sie Gehörverlust oder Ohrenläuten fest,
wenden Sie sich an einen Ohrenartz.

8.

Orbit-3 kann mit einem polarisierten Kabelstecker (mit ungleichen
Stiften) ausgerüstet sein. Das geschieht für Ihre Sicherheit. Können Sie
den Stecker nicht in die Steckdose einführen, ändern Sie nicht den
Stecker ab, sondern wenden Sie sich an einen Elektriker.

9.

Das Netzkabel des Orbit-3 bei längerem Nichtgebrauch aus der
Steckdose ziehen.

E-MU Systems

Foreign Language Warnings - German

Vermeiden Sie sorgfältig das Eindringen von Gegenständen oder

10.

Flüssigkeiten durch die Gehäuseöffnungen.
Das Gerät soll durch qualifizierte Serviceleute gewartet werden, falls:

11.

A. das Netzkabel beschädigt wurde, oder
B. Gegenstände oder Flüssigkeit in das Gerät gelangten,
C. das Gerät Regen ausgesetzt war, oder
D. das Gerät nicht normal oder einwandfrei arbeitet, oder
E. das Gerät stürzte oder sein Gehäuse beschädigt wurde.

12. Servicearbeiten sollten nur qualifizierten Fachleuten anvertraut werden.

DIESE INSTRUKTIONEN AUFBEWAHREN

Orbit-3 Operation Manual

9

Foreign Language Warnings - French
Instructions de Sécurité Importantes

Foreign Language Warnings

- French

Instructions de Sécurité Importantes

Instructions de Mise à la Terre

Ce symbole vous alerte de la

présence d’instructions

importantes d’opération et

de maintenance dans la

notice accompagnant

Danger Une connexion incorrecte peut résulter en des risques d’électrocution.

l’appareil.

Une utilisation dans des pays autres que les U.S.A. peut nécessiter l’usage
d’un cordon d’alimentation différent. Afin de réduire les risques d’incendie
ou d’électrocution, référez-vous à un personnel de service qualifié, et
n’exposez pas cet appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidité.

Cet appareil doit être relié à la terre. Dans le cas d’une malfonction
éventuelle, la terre fournit un passage de moindre résistance pour le
courant électrique, réduisant ainsi les risques d’électrocution. Le Orbit-3 est
équipé d’un cordon muni d’un conducteur et d’une fiche devant être
branchée dans une prise appropriée et reliée à la terre en conformité avec
les normes locales.

Vérifiez avec un technicien qualifié si vous avez des doutes quant à la
connexion. Ne modifiez pas vous-même le cordon d’alimentation livré avec
cet appareil; s’il ne rentre pas dans la prise, faites-en installer un autre par
un technicien qualifié.

Attention Si le Orbit-3 (Model 9099) est installé dans un rack, utilisez un rack

standard ouvert de 48.25cm.

Ce symbole vous alerte de

la présence d’un voltage

non-isolé dangereux à

Instructions

l’intérieur de l’appareil,

de

pouvant être d’une

magnitude suffisante pour

Maintenance

constituer un risque

d’électrocution.

10 E-MU Systems

1. le Orbit-3 doit être maintenu propre et sans poussière. Nettoyez-le

périodiquement à l’aide d’un chiffon propre et non-pelucheux.
N’utilisez pas de solvants, ou d’autres produits de nettoyage.

2. Aucune lubrification et aucun réglage ne sont nécessaires de votre part.

3. Pour tout autre service, référez-vous à un personnel qualifié.

Foreign Language Warnings - French

Instructions de Maintenance

Instructions Concernant les Risques d’Incendie,
d’Electrocution, ou de Blessures Corporelles.

ATTENTION: Lorsque vous utilisez des appareils électriques,
certaines précautions élémentaires doivent toujours être prises,
incluant les suivantes:

Ces instructions de dépanage sont destinées uniquement aux personnes
qualifiées. Afin d’éviter les risques d’électrocution, n’effectuez que les opéra­tions décrites dans ce manuel, à moins que vous ne soyez qualifiê pour cela.
Faites effectuer toute r’eparation par une personne qualifié.

1. Lisez bien toutes les instructions avant d’utiliser le Orbit-3.

2. Afin de réduire les risques de blessures, une attention particulière est

nécessaire en la présence d’enfants en bas âge.

3. N’utilisez pas le Orbit-3 dans ou près d’endroits humides - par exemple

près d’une baignoire, d’un lavabo, dans les toilettes, dans une cave
humide, sur un bar fréquenté, en présence d’un bull-dog en rut, ou
dans une piscine pleine. Protégez cet appareil de tout liquide,
éclaboussure ou fuite.

4. Le Orbit-3 doit être placé de façon à ce que sa position n’interfére pas

avec sa propre ventilation.

5. Le Orbit-3 doit être placé loin de sources de chaleur telles que des radia-

teurs, cheminées, fours, ou groupies en chaleur.

6. Le Orbit-3 doit uniquement être connecté à une alimentation du type

décrit dans les instructions d’opération et tel qu’indiqué sur l’appareil.

7. Une attention particulière doit être observée quant aux objets pouvant

tomber et aux liquides pouvant être versés sur et à l’intérieur de le
Orbit-3.

8. Le Orbit-3 peut être équipé d’une fiche secteur polarisée (avec une

broche plus large que l’autre). C’est une mesure de sécurité. Si vous ne
pouvez pas brancher cette fiche dans une prise, ne neutralisez pas cette
sécurité. Contactez plutôt un électricien pour remplacer la prise
obsolète.

9. Evitez de marcher sur le cordon d’alimentation ou de le coincer,

particuliêrement prês des prises de courant, des boitiers ‘electriques dt
du point de sortie de l’appareil.

10. Le cordon d’alimentation de le Orbit-3 doit être débranché lorsque ce

dernier n’est pas utilisé pendant une longue période.

11. Cet appareil, combiné avec un amplificateur, des haut-parleurs, et/ou

un casque, est capable de générer des niveaux sonores pouvant
occasionner une perte de l’ouïe permanente. Ne travaillez pas trop
longtemps à un volume trop élevé ou même inconfortable. Si vous
observez une perte de l’audition ou un bourdonnement dans les
oreilles, consultez un O.R.L.

12. N’utilisez que les accessoires sp’ecifi’es par E-mu Systems.

13. Cet appareil doit être examiné par un personnel qualifié lorsque:

Orbit-3 Operation Manual 11

Foreign Language Warnings - French
Interférences Radio et Télévision

14. Tout service doit être effectué par un personnel qualifié.

SAUVEGARDEZ CES INSTRUCTIONS

A. Le cordon d’alimentation a été endommagé, ou
B. Des objets sont tombés, ou du liquide a été versé sur/à l’intérieur

de l’appareil, ou
C. Le Orbit-3 a été exposé à la pluie, ou
D. Le Orbit-3 est tombé, ou
E. Le Orbit-3 ne fonctionne pas normalement, ou affiche un

changement radical de performance.

Interférences Radio et Télévision

L’appareil décrit dans cette notice génére et utilise une énergie de
fréquence-radio. S’il n’est pas installé et utilisé correctement - c’est à dire en
suivant strictement nos instructions - il peut occasionner des interférences
avec la réception d’une radio ou d’une télévision.

Cet appareil a été testé et est conforme aux normes de Classe A en accord
avec les spécifications du paragraphe J de la section 15 des lois FCC. Ces lois
sont désignées pour fournir une protection raisonnable contre de telles
interférences dans une installation résidentielle. Toutefois, il n’est pas
garanti qu’aucune interférence n’apparaisse dans des installations
particulières, et plus spécialement lorsqu’une antenne de télévision en
«oreilles de lapin» est utilisée.

Si le Orbit-3 occasionne des interférences , vous pouvez essayer de les
corriger en utilisant une ou plusieurs des mesures suivantes:

• Tournez l’antenne de la télé ou de la radio jusqu’à ce que les inter­férences disparaissent.

• Déplacez le Orbit-3 d’un côté ou de l’autre de la télé ou de la radio.

• Eloignez le Orbit-3 de la télé ou de la radio.

• Branchez le Orbit-3 sur une prise différente que la télé ou la radio.

• Installez une antenne sur le toit munie d’une connexion coaxiale entre

elle et le poste de télévision.

12 E-MU Systems

Declaration of Conformity

Interférences Radio et Télévision

Declaration of Conformity

Manufacturer:

E-MU/Ensoniq
1600 Green Hills Road
Scotts Valley, CA 95067-0015 USA

We hereby declare that the equipment listed herein conforms to the
harmonized standards of the following European Commission Directives:
89/336/EEC and 72/23/EEC.

Trade Name: Audio Sampler/Emulator System

Model Number: Proteus 1000 CR

Under 89/336/EEC as amended by 92/31/EEC, and 72/23/EEC

In accordance with EN 55103-1:1996, Emission Environments E1, E2, E3

In accordance with EN 55103-2:1996, Immunity Environments E1, E2, E3

Test information is contained in a report by Atlas Compliance and
Engineering dated November 15, 1999.

Report No.: 9949EMU2KCR103

Under 73/23/EEC as amended by 93/68/EEC

In accordance with EN 60950 with amendments A1, A2, A3, A4, A11

This Declaration is made November 15, 1999

Orbit-3 Operation Manual 13

Declaration of Conformity
Interférences Radio et Télévision

14 E-MU Systems

Setup

This section thoroughly describes how to set up your new Orbit-3 for use.
Setup includes unpacking instructions and how to connect the cables.

Unpacking Carefully remove Orbit-3 from the packaging material. Take care to save the

packing materials in case you need to transport the unit. Check to make
sure all components are included and in good condition. If there are
missing or damaged components, contact E-MU Systems immediately for
replacement or repair.

The Orbit-3 box should include the following components:

• Orbit-3 rack unit

• Power cable

• Rack mounting ears

• This operation manual

• Manuals CD-ROM

Orbit-3 Operation Manual 15

Connection

SCOTTS V

ALLEY CA. U.S.A.

THRU

Setup

Connection Instructions

Instructions

Basic Setup





If Orbit-3 does not seem
to be responding correctly, make
sure that both Orbit-3 and your
MIDI controller are set to the
same MIDI channel.

~

Control
Pedal

Male Phono Plug

Aux. or
Tape In

MIDI Controller

(MIDI Keyboard, Sequencer, etc.)

REAL TIME CONTROLLERS

ASSIGNABLE KEYS

PRESET

SAMPLE

SEQUENCER

EMULATOR

MIDI Out

A

To

Main Outs

Male RCA plug

to

LEVEL

EXIT

ENTER

PAGE

PRESET SELECT

RETURN

0.987654321

Main Outs to Mixer In

Amp

The Headphone

Output is located

on the Front Panel

B

IN THRU

Mixer

SCOTTS V

ALLEY CA. U.S.A.





The Right Main output
jack carries a mono mix of the
left and right channels when the
Left Main plug is not plugged in.

The Left Main output jack is a
stereo jack carrying both
channels when the right output
jack is empty.

16 E-MU Systems

Speakers

Home Stereo

System

Home Studio

System

MIDI In

Orbit-3 is controlled by MIDI messages received at the MIDI In jack.
Normally you will connect MIDI Out of a controller such as a MIDI
keyboard to Orbit-3’s MIDI In jack. Be sure to connect a Footswitch and/or
Control Pedal to your MIDI keyboard. Many of the factory presets use MIDI
controllers.

Outputs

In order to reproduce Orbit-3’s wide dynamic range and frequency
response, use a high quality amplification and speaker system such as a
keyboard amplifier or home stereo system. A stereo setup is highly desirable
because of the added realism of stereophonic sound. Headphones can be
used if an amplifier and speaker system is not available. Plug stereo
headphones into the headphone jack on the left side of the front panel.

Studio Setup

SCOTTS V

ALLEY CA. U.S.A.

THRU

MIDI Controller

(MIDI Keyboard, Sequencer, etc.)

REAL TIME CONTROLLERS

ASSIGNABLE KEYS

PRESET

SAMPLE

SEQUENCER

~

Setup

Connection Instructions

LEVEL

EXIT

ENTER

PAGE

PRESET SELECT

RETURN

EMULATOR

0.987654321

MIDI Out

“A” MIDI

channels

1-16

Out

Computer

In

MIDI

Interface

A

Additional

MIDI

Devices

MIDI In

Out

OutIn

“B” MIDI
channels

1-16

B

SCOTTS V

IN THRU

ALLEY CA. U.S.A.

Mixer

Amp

MIDI In

In this setup, Orbit-3 is controlled by MIDI messages, received at both MIDI
A and MIDI B inputs, which are routed by the MIDI interface. Each MIDI
input handles 16 channels for a total of 32 channels. The MIDI interface
allows any MIDI controller, such as a MIDI keyboard or a computer, to
control the module.

MIDI Out

The MIDI Out jack transmits program data to a computer or other device.

Outputs

Three sets of programmable stereo outputs (Main, Sub1, Sub 2) are
provided. The internal effects are available only on the Main outputs.
Specific presets (or MIDI channels) can be routed to one of these stereo
pairs in order to be processed further or mixed separately. The S/PDIF
output data is identical to the signal on the Main outputs.

Orbit-3 Operation Manual 17

Setup

Connection Instructions

Power Up! The power switch is located on the right side of the front panel. You can

turn on the Orbit-3 and its MIDI controller in any order. When power is
applied the liquid crystal display will light, indicating that Orbit-3 is
operating. You may have noticed that there is no 110/220 Volt power
selector switch on Orbit-3.

Orbit-3 automatically switches itself to the

proper line voltage.

18 E-MU Systems

Setup

Instant Gratification

Instant
Gratification

Playing Demo Sequences

This section presents step-by-step instructions for the most fundamental
operations to get you up and making sounds quickly.

Orbit-3 has several factory demonstration sequences that let you hear what
this incredible machine can do. The actual number of demo sequences
depends on which ROM sounds sets are installed. You can play these demo
sequences by accessing the Demo Sequence page.

DEMO SEQUENCES TeCnO
Y

ard Dance

 To Play a Demo Sequence

1. Press and hold the Master and Edit buttons at the same time to enter

the Demo Sequence page. The screen shown above appears.

2. Select a sequence using the data entry control. The Enter LED will be

flashing.

3. Press the Enter button to begin playing the selected sequence. The

screen shown below appears.

PLAYING: Yard Dance
Press ENTER to stop

4. Press the Enter button again to stop playing the sequence.

5. When a demo sequence plays to the end, the next demo will automati-

cally begin playing. The screen will display the new demo name.

6. With the sequence stopped, press either the Master, Edit or Arp/Beats

button to Exit the demo sequence mode.

Auditioning Presets The front panel audition button allows you to hear any preset in Orbit-3

without even hooking up a MIDI keyboard! When the Audition button is
pressed, the LED next to the button will illuminate and a short
“Riff” (programmed as part of the preset) will play. The Riff is latched on
and plays continuously until the button is pressed again. Presets can be
changed while Audition is latched on.

The top line of the display changes to show the MIDI Bank Select controller
values needed to select the preset being auditioned. This is an extremely
handy feature when sequencing.

Orbit-3 Operation Manual 19

Instant Gratification

Bank MSB:065 LSB:3 TeCnO

1

253 sfx: Freak Out

To Audition a Preset



1. Select a preset by turning the data entry control while the cursor is

anywhere on the lower line. The preset number field (shown above) is
the normal position of the cursor and pressing the Enter button will
return the cursor to this position.

2. Press the Audition button on the front panel. The Audition LED will

illuminate and a short riff will play the selected preset.

3. Continue to select and audition presets.

4. Press the Audition button again to turn Audition mode off. The LED

will extinguish.

Setup

Selecting and Quick Editing Presets

The first thing you’ll do with the Orbit-3 is select and play the factory
provided presets. Orbit-3 comes standard with 8 banks containing 128
presets each. See “Main Screen” on page 32.

Preset

Location

Channel

Number

Initial
Volume
Setting

Initial

Pan

Setting

Arpeggiator

Setting

C01 V127 P01R A:off User

253 sfx: Freak Out

1

Blinking

Cursor

The first four banks are USER locations that can be overwritten and used to
store your own presets. The presets that come stored in the USER presets are
duplicated in banks 0-3 of the “Orbit-3” ROM bank, so feel free to overwrite
them with your own presets. You won’t be losing anything.

Preset

Number

Bank

Number

Preset
Category

Preset
Name

20 E-MU Systems

The ROM Card identifier is shown in the top right of the display. The preset
is identified in the bottom line of the main screen (the screen that appears
when you first power up the unit).