Korg KARMA Basic Guide

To ensure long, trouble-free operation, please read this manual carefully.

Precautions

Location

Using the unit in the following locations can result in a malfunction.

• In direct sunlight

• Locations of extreme temperature or humidity

• Excessively dusty or dirty locations

• Locations of excessive vibration

Power supply

Please connect the designated AC/AC power supply to an AC outlet of the correct voltage. Do not connect it to an AC outlet of voltage other than that for which your unit is intended.

Interference with other electrical devices

This product contains a microcomputer. Radios and televisions placed nearby may experience reception interference. Operate this unit at a suitable distance from radios and televisions.

Handling

To avoid breakage, do not apply excessive force to the switches or controls.

Care

If the exterior becomes dirty, wipe it with a clean, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners such as benzene or thinner, or cleaning compounds or ﬂammable polishes.

Keep this manual

After reading this manual, please keep it for later reference.

Keeping foreign matter out of your equipment

• Never set any container with liquid in it near this equipment. If liquid gets into the equipment, it could cause a breakdown, fire, or electrical shock.

• Be careful not to let metal objects get into the equipment. If something does slip into the equipment, unplug the AC/AC power supply from the wall outlet. Then contact your nearest Korg dealer or the store where the equipment was purchased.

THE FCC REGULATION WARNING (for U.S.A.)

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Ho we ver, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different

from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Unauthorized changes or modiﬁcation to this system can void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

CE mark for European Harmonized Standards

CE mark which is attached to our company’s products of AC mains operated apparatus until December 31, 1996 means it conforms to EMC Directive (89/336/EEC) and CE mark Directive (93/68/EEC). And, CE mark which is attached after January 1, 1997 means it conforms to EMC Directive (89/336/EEC), CE mark Directive (93/68/EEC) and Low Voltage Directive (73/23/ EEC). Also, CE mark which is attached to our company’s products of Battery operated apparatus means it conforms to EMC Directive (89/336/EEC) and CE mark Directive (93/68/EEC).

Data handling

Malfunctions due to incorrect operation may cause the contents of memory to be lost, so we recommend that you save important data on a ﬂoppy disk. Please be aware that Korg will accept no responsibility for any damages which may result from loss of data.

* KARMA™ (Kay Algorithmic Realtime Music Architecture) Tech-

nology has been licensed from Stephen Kay, and is protected by U.S. Patents 5,486,647, 6,084,171, 6,087,578, 6,103,964, 6,121,532, and 6,121,533. Other patents pending.

* KARMA™, the KARMA Logo, Generated Effect™ (GE),

Melodic Repeat™, Direct Index™, Manual Advance™, and SmartScan™ are trademarks of Stephen Kay, Karma Lab LLC, www.karma-lab.com. This manual copyright © 2000-2001 by KORG Inc. and Stephen Kay. All rights reserved.

* Company names, product names, and names of formats etc.

are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Thank you for purchasing the

Korg KARMA music workstation

. To ensure trouble-free enjoyment, please read this manual carefully and use the instrument as directed.

About this manual

The owner’s manuals and how to use them

This instrument come with the following owner’s manuals.

• Basic Guide

• Parameter Guide

• KARMA GE Guide

• Voice Name List

Basic Guide

First read this manual carefully to gain a basic understanding of the instrument and to learn basic operation.

“Introduction”

to make connections, basic operation, and gives an overview of each mode.

“Quick Start”

convenient functions for performance). If you wish to begin playing immediately, read this section ﬁrst.

“Basic Functions”

tions of what you need to know to edit sounds, record on the sequencer. This section also explains how to use the KARMA function, effects.

“

Appendices

ing, speciﬁcations, and various other information.

Parameter Guide

The Parameter Guide contains explanations and other information regarding the operations of the parameters and settings on this instrument. The explanations are organized by mode, and page. Explanations and other information on the effects and their parameters are also provided for each effect. Refer to this guide when an unfamiliar parameter appears in the display, or when you need to know more about a particular function.

explains the function of each part, how

explains basic topics (selecting sounds,

contains mode-by-mode explana-

” contains information on troubleshoot-

Conventions in this manual

Abbreviations for the manuals BG, PG, GE, VNL

References to the manuals included with this instrument are abbreviated as follows in this document.

: Basic Guide

: Parameter Guide

: KARMA GE Guide

VNL

: Voice Name List

Switches and knobs [ ]

References to the switches, dials, and knobs on the panel are enclosed in square brackets [ ].

Parameters in the LCD display screen “ “

Parameters displayed in the LCD screen are enclosed in double quotation marks “ “.

Boldface type

Parameter values are printed in boldface type. Content that is of particular importance is also printed in boldface type.

Procedure steps 1 2 3 ...

Steps in a procedure are listed as 1 2 3 ...

☞p.■

These indicate pages or parameter numbers to which you can refer.

Symbols

These symbols respectively indicate cautions, advice, and MIDI-related explanations.

Example screen displays

The values of the parameters shown in the example screens of this manual are only for explanatory purposes, and may not necessary match the values that appear in the LCD screen of your instrument.

MIDI-related explanations

CC#

In explanations of MIDI messages,

brackets [ ]

, ,

is an abbreviation for Control Change Number.

numbers in square

always indicate hexadecimal numbers.

GE Guide

This explains the concepts and parameters of the GE (Generated Effect) section that generates the phrases and patterns of the KARMA function.

Voice Name List

This lists the multisamples and drumsamples that are built into this instrument, and the factory preset combinations, programs, drum kits, and KARMA function. Refer to these lists when you wish to know more about the preloaded sounds.

iii

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

Introducing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Main features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Overview of the modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Front and rear panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Front panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Rear panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Objects and functions in the LCD screen . . . . . . . 10

Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Connecting audio equipment etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

1. Connecting the power cable . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

2. Connecting audio output devices . . . . . . . . 12

3. Connecting pedals etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Connections to MIDI equipment / computers

(MIDI connectors) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

1. Connections to MIDI equipment . . . . . . . . . 13

2. Connections to a computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Basic operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Selecting modes, pages and tabs; setting

parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

1. Selecting modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

2. Selecting pages and tabs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

3. Selecting parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

4. Setting a parameter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Quick Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Turning the power on/off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

1. Turning the power on. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

2. Turning the power off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Using controllers to modify the sound. . . . . . . . 23

Joystick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

SW1, SW2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Realtime control [1], [2], [3], [4] . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

[VALUE] slider . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Foot pedals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

KARMA Realtime Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Performing with the KARMA function . . . . . . . . 26

Using the KARMA function to perform in

Program mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Selecting a program and turning the KARMA

function on/off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Adjusting the tempo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Checking the note-on/off status

and Key Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Operating the KARMA Realtime

Controls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Selecting a GE (Generated Effect) . . . . . . . . . 29

Using the KARMA function to perform in

Combination mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Selecting a combination and turning the

KARMA function on/off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Adjusting the tempo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Checking the note-on/off status

and Key Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Operating the KARMA Realtime Controls. . . . 30

Settings for KARMA module operation

(“Run” and “Solo” settings) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

KARMA module MIDI I/O channel settings. . . 31

Selecting a GE (Generated Effect) . . . . . . . . . 31

KARMA module parameter settings . . . . . . . . 31

Playing with the RPPR (Realtime Pattern Play/

Recording) function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Listening to a demo song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Loading the demo song data in Disk mode . . . . . 18

Selecting and playing a demonstration song in

Sequencer mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Playing a cue list . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Selecting and playing a program . . . . . . . . . . .20

Selecting a program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Selecting and playing a combination . . . . . . . .22

Selecting a combination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Simple program editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Performance Edit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Realtime controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Simple combination editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

An example of editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Basic functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Saving data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Types of data that can be saved . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Writing to internal memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Writing a program or combination . . . . . . . . . . 38

Writing global settings and user drum kits. . . . 40

Saving on Floppy disk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

MIDI data dump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Restoring the factory settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Loading the preload data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Program mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

How a program is organized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Basic program editing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Oscillator settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Controller settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Pitch settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Filter settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Amplifier settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

LFO settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

KARMA function settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

BUS settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Insert Effect settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Master Effect settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

More about Alternate Modulation . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Combination mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

How a combination is organized. . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Basic combination editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Timbre 1–8 program, pan and volume. . . . . . . 53

Controller settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Settings for status, MIDI channel,

and playing mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Turn KARMA on/off, and specify note delay

and scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Layer and split settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Velocity switch settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

MIDI filter settings

KARMA function settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Bus settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Insert Effect settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Master Effect settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Sequencer mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Features of the sequencer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

The structure of Sequencer mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Songs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Cue List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Playing a song (Play). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Other playback. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Recording. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Recording on a track, and recording

on a pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Realtime recording on a track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Realtime recording to a pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Step recording on a track or pattern . . . . . . . . 68

Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Track editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Pattern editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Song editing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Creating and playing a Cue List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

RPPR (Realtime Pattern Play/Recording)

function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

RPPR settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

RPPR playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Realtime recording an RPPR performance . . . 72

Song Play mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

The structure of Song Play mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Playing SMF data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Jukebox function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Playback using the Jukebox function. . . . . . . . 76

Saving/loading a Jukebox list . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

About the KARMA function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

The structure of the KARMA

function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

KARMA function settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

KARMA function settings

in Program mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

KARMA function settings

in Combination mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

KARMA function settings

in Sequencer mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

KARMA function settings

in Song Play mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Synchronizing the KARMA function . . . . . . . . . . . 88

The “Quantize Trig” parameter . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Synchronizing with song start/stop . . . . . . . . . 89

Synchronizing to an external MIDI device . . . . 89

Global mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Creating a drum kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

About drum kits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Editing a drum kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Disk mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93

How Disk mode is organized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Types of media that can be used . . . . . . . . . . 93

Loading data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Types of data that can be loaded . . . . . . . . . . 93

Data loading procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Saving data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Types of data that can be saved. . . . . . . . . . . 95

Formatting a disk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Cautions when handling floppy disks . . . . . . . . . 95

Effects settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97

Effects in each mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Routing settings and effect settings . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Effect settings for a program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Effect settings for Combination, Song,

and Song Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

About dynamic modulation (Dmod) . . . . 100

Other functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101

Tuning to another instrument/Transposing . . . . 101

Bypassing the effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Specifying the function of the ASSIGNABLE

Switch and ASSIGNABLE Pedal. . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Adjusting the way in which velocity or after

touch will affect the volume or tone. . . . . . . . . . 102

Creating original scales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Changing the scale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Setting the function of [SW1] and [SW2] . . . . . . 103

Setting the B-mode functions of REALTIME

CONTROLS [1]–[4] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Assigning MIDI control changes to the KARMA

Realtime Controls knobs and keys . . . . . . . . . . 104

Adjusting the contrast (brightness)

sof the LCD screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Using this instrument as a data filer . . . . . . . . . 104

Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105

Specifications and options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107

Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

MIDI implementation chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109

Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110

Introduction

Introducing

Main features

Overview

This instrument is a music workstation featuring a

(Hyper Integrated)

and

the KARMA function

In addition to high-quality multi-samples, programs, combinations, the KARMA function, and an effect section, it also provides a

RPPR

, (Realtime Pattern Play & Record).

While you perform, you can control realtime changes to the sound or the phrase/pattern generated by KARMA by using joystick, [SW1], [SW2], REALTIME CONTROLS [1]–[4] knobs, KARMA Realtime Controls knobs and switches, and connected pedals. (

In addition, options such as a

(EBX-MOSS)

can be installed to further expand the potential of this instrument (PG

This music workstation instrument is a powerful tool for music production or live performance.

synthesis system tone generator

sequencer, song play

a rich array of controllers

☞

p.26).

MOSS tone generator

, and additional

☞

p.263).

PCM expansion boards

HI (Hyper Integrated) synthesis system

The

HI (Hyper Integrated) synthesis system

tone generator system with full digital signal processing that guarantees pristine sound, and features enormous ﬂexibility in musical extensibility, modulation, and effect routing.

Tone generator section:

•

32 Mbytes

multisamples and Separately sold

boards (16 Mbytes PCM ROM)

installed to add more PCM data.

• The sampling frequency is maximum polyphony is

Filter/synthesis section:

•

24 dB/oct Low Pass Resonance type Low Pass & High Pass type

wide variety of filter effects can be achieved, from active sounds with aggressive resonance to subtle tones using a high pass filter.

• A broad range of editing parameters gives you control over every aspect of the sound.

of preset PCM ROM contains

413

drumsamples.

EXB-PCM series PCM expansion

can be optionally

48 kHz

, and the

62 voices

filters can be used. A

12 dB/oct

, and

such as

is a PCM

425

Introduction

Effect section:

• Five insertion effects (stereo-in/stereo-out), two

master effects (mono-in/stereo-out), and a threeband master EQ (stereo-in/stereo-out) can all be

used simultaneously. You can select from 102 types of effect algorithms, and edit them.

• Highly flexible effect routing is possible. Effects can also be routed freely to the individual outputs.

Main features

Alternate Modulation and Effect Dynamic Modulation:

• The synthesis section (filter etc.) provides Alternate Modulation functionality, and the effect section provides Effect Dynamic Modulation functionality. This allows you to freely apply

modulation to parameters that affect the pitch, filter, amp, EG, LFO, and effects etc.

• LFO and delay time etc. can be synchronized to MIDI clock/tempo. You can synchronize sounds or effects to the tempo of the sequencer or the KARMA function.

KARMA function (Variable Performance Modeler)

The KARMA function (Variable Performance Modeler) generates MIDI data.

According to the note and chord data that you input, various parameters of sophisticated algorithms are used to generate MIDI messages such as notes and control data, creating musical phrases and patterns. You can control these parameters to freely modify the phrases or patterns in realtime.

For example, you can freely control harp glissandi with dynamic tempo changes, changes in volume and tone of a brass sound that are synchronized with the phrase, randomness in a drum phrase, increased or decreased ﬁll-in, dramatic techno grooves, or changes in tone color. KARMA lets you generate and control phrases and patterns with a higher level of musicality and freedom than is possible for conventional arpeggiators or pattern playback functions.

The KARMA function is the heart of Korg’s KARMA music workstation.

What is KARMA?

KARMA™ (Kay Algorithmic Realtime Music Architecture) is a patented algorithmic MIDI data generating technology that takes input notes and controller movements and generates complex musical phrases and effects. KARMA provides independent real-time control over various aspects of a musical phrase, such as rhythm, duration, accents, chord density, pitch bending, tonal variation, panning, repeats, randomization, etc.

Programs and combinations

• In progtam, KARMA Music Workstation provides

640 user programs, and 256 programs + 9 drumsets for GM2 compatibility. When shipped

from the factory, it contains high-quality preload programs that cover a wide range of musical needs. The 640 user programs can be modiﬁed by adjusting the numerous editing parameters, the effects and the KARMA function, to create your own original programs. When the separately sold EXB-MOSS option is installed, 128 programs for the Korg MOSS tone generator will also be available.

• For use as the oscillator of a drum program, KARMA Music Workstation provides 64 user

drum kits and nine GM2-compatible ROM drum kits. With the factory settings, preset drum kits

that cover a variety of musical genres are provided. You can create your own original drum kits by assigning a drumsample to each note of the keyboard. For each note, you can make filter and amp settings, and even route the sound through effects and to a individual audio output.

• KARMA Music Workstation provides 768 user combinations. With the factory settings, these

contain a wide variety of preload combinations. A combination allows you to use layers, splits, or velocity switches etc. to combine up to eight programs together with effects and four KARMA modules, in order to create complex sounds that could not be produced by a program. You can also make settings that include external tone generators.

RPPR

KARMA Music Workstation features a RPPR (Realtime Pattern Play/Recording) function.

In Sequencer mode, this function allows you to assign preset patterns or user patterns (with a speciﬁed playback track) to individual notes of the keyboard, and playback or record that pattern in realtime simply by pressing the assigned note. Numerous preset patterns, including patterns ideal for a drum track, are built into the internal memory.

4 channel audio output

• In addition to the L/MONO and R main stereo audio outputs, KARMA Music Workstation provides two individual audio outputs, for a total of four channels of audio output. The sound from each oscillator, drum, timbre/track, or insertion effect can be routed freely to any output.

Sequencer

KARMA Music Workstation provides a high-performance 16-track MIDI sequencer, with more than sufﬁ-

cient power for use as a stand-alone sequencer. The sequencer can serve as the core that brings together KARMA Music Workstation’s numerous capabilities, allowing it to serve as an integrated music workstation.

For more on this instrument’s sequencer (

☞p.57).

Song Play

In Song Play mode, SMF (Standard MIDI File) data can be played back directly from a ﬂoppy disk. You

can play along on the keyboard as you listen to the SMF playback. You can also perform with the KARMA function synchronized to the SMF playback tempo.

• Formats 0 and 1 are supported.

• A jukebox function lets you edit the order in which

songs are played back.

Overview of the modes

In addition to its KARMA function, this instrument includes an extremely wide array of functionality. You can play and edit programs and combinations, record and play sequence data, directly play SMF ﬁles from ﬂoppy disk, and manage disk data. These functions are broadly divided into “modes.” KARMA Music Workstation has six modes.

Program mode

• Here you can select and play programs You can choose programs from rewritable banks A, B, C, D, E and F which contain a total of 768 programs, and non-rewritable bank G (256 programs compatible with the GM2 standard, and nine drum programs). (The 128 programs of bank F can be selected only if the EXB-MOSS option has been installed.)

• A program can use one KARMA module.

• You can edit a program

Make settings for the oscillator, ﬁlter, amp, EG, LFO, effects, and KARMA function etc.

Select a multisample (the following multisamples are available)

• 425 internal multisamples (ROM)

• Expanded multisamples (when a separately

sold EXB-PCM series board is installed)

• Create drum programs using a drum kit (created in Global mode)

Combination mode

• Here you can select and play combinations A combination is a set of two or more programs (a maximum of eight), and allows you to produce complex sounds that could not be created by an individual program. You can choose combinations from rewritable banks A, B, C, D, E and F which contain a total of 768 combinations.

• A combination can use up to four KARMA modules.

• You can edit combination data. Make settings for volume, pan, layer/split etc. for each timbre (program), and make settings for effects and the KARMA function etc.

Sequencer mode

• Here you can use the 16-track sequencer to record and playback songs.

• A song can use up to four KARMA modules.

• You can make effect settings for your song.

Introduction

Overview of the modes

GLOBAL MODE

DRUM KIT

Key

Drumsample / Sample - H

Assign

Drumsample / Sample - L

GLOBAL SETTING

DISK MODE

PROGRAM MODE

OSC 1

Multisample - H

Drum Kit

Multisample - L

FILTER1 AMP1

PITCH1

OSC 2

Multisample - H

Multisample - L

FILTER2

PITCH2

COMBINATION MODE

Program

TRACK 9

TRACK 10

TRACK 11

TRACK 12

TRACK 13

TRACK 14

TRACK 15

TRACK 16

TIMBRE 1

TIMBRE 2

TIMBRE 3

TIMBRE 4

TIMBRE 5

TIMBRE 6

TIMBRE 7

TIMBRE 8

SEQUENCER / SONG PLAY MODE

TRACK 1

TRACK 2

TRACK 3

TRACK 4

TRACK 5

TRACK 6

TRACK 7

TRACK 8

AMP2

Program

Insert /Master Effect IFX 1

IFX 2 IFX 3 IFX 4 IFX 5

KARMA

KARMA Module [A]

Insert /Master Effect IFX 1

IFX 2 IFX 3 IFX 4 IFX 5

KARMA

KARMA Module [A] KARMA Module [B] KARMA Module [C] KARMA Module [D]

Insert /Master Effect IFX 1

IFX 2 IFX 3 IFX 4 IFX 5

KARMA

KARMA Module [A] KARMA Module [B] KARMA Module [C] KARMA Module [D]

MFX 1 MFX 2

MEQ

MFX 1 MFX 2

MEQ

MFX 1 MFX 2

MEQ

• Your performance using the KARMA function can be recorded to a song or pattern. You can also copy a combination and use the KARMA function to record your performance.

• You can use a cue list to set up consecutive playback of multiple songs, and specify the number of repeats for each song.

• You can use a maximum of 20 cue lists, 200 songs, and 100 preset patterns. One song can use as many as 100 patterns.

• KARMA Music Workstation can be used as a 16track multitimbral tone generator.

• You can perform using the RPPR (Realtime Pattern Play/Recording) function, and make settings for it.

Song Play mode

• Here you can playback SMF (Standard MIDI File) data from a floppy disk and play along with the playback if desired.

• You can make effect settings for use in Song Play mode.

• You can use the KARMA function while playing along with the SMF playback. Up to four KARMA modules can be used.

• SMF songs can be played back in succession. You can use the jukebox function to playback songs in any specified order.

Global mode

• Here you can make settings that affect the entire this instrument, such as master tune and global MIDI channel.

• You can create drum kits (64 kits) and user scales (16 one-octave scales and 1 all-note scale).

• You can create drum kits using the 413 internal drumsamples (ROM). You can also use drumsamples from an optional EXB-PCM series board (if installed).

• You can set the function of the assignable pedals and assignable switches.

• You can transmit data dumps of MIDI exclusive data.

Disk mode

• Data from each mode can be saved and loaded using a floppy disk.

• Media such as floppy disks can be formatted, and data can be managed by copying etc.

• Songs that you created in Sequencer mode can be saved in SMF format. SMF files can be loaded as Sequencer mode songs.

• You can use the Data Filer function (to save/load MIDI exclusive data).

Front and rear panel

Front panel

2 3

1. EXB-PCM slot cover (EXB-PCM option)

Open this cover to install separately sold EXBPCM series option boards. Two slots are provided. For details on installation, refer to PG p.265

3. [SW1] key, [SW2] key

These keys are on/off switches for the functions to which they were assigned in Program, Combination, Sequencer and Song Play modes. When on, the LED will light (

☞p.23).

Introduction

Front panel

2. REALTIME CONTROLS

Use the [SELECT] key to select A or B mode for the realtime controllers, and use knobs [1]–[4] to control the tone, effects, and MIDI control changes etc. in realtime (

☞p.24).

[SELECT] key

This key selects either A or B mode for the realtime controllers. The selected mode will light.

[1] knob, [2] knob, [3] knob, [4] knob

In A mode, the function of each knob is ﬁxed. [1] is the low pass ﬁlter cutoff frequency, [2] is the ﬁlter resonance level or the cutoff frequency of the high pass ﬁlter, [3] is the ﬁlter EG intensity, and [4] is the ﬁlter/amp release time. In B mode, each knob will control the function that is assigned in Program, Combination, Sequencer, or Song Play modes.

4. Joystick

This controls pitch or modulation, etc. Move the joystick up/down or left/right (+Y, –Y, –X, +X) to control ( Various program parameters and effect parameters will determine what is controlled by the joystick.

☞p.23).

5. Headphone jack

A set of headphones with(1/4") stereo phono plug can be connected here. The output from the L/MONO and R OUTPUT jacks can be monitored in stereo through the headphones.

6. Floppy disk drive

You can insert 3.5 inch 2HD (double-side high density) ﬂoppy disks here. Edited data can be saved on a ﬂoppy disk, and the factory preload data, or SMF data etc. can be loaded from a ﬂoppy disk. For details on handling ﬂoppy disks, refer to “Floppy disk handling” (

☞p.95).

Eject button

To remove a ﬂoppy disk, ﬁrst make sure that the disk access indicator is off, and then press this button. If the disk does not eject when you press this button, do not attempt to remove the disk by

force. Please contact your dealer.

Disk access indicator

Eject button

7. [VOLUME] slider

This adjusts the volume that is output from the OUTPUT jacks (L/MONO, R) and the headphone jack.

8. KARMA REALTIME CONTROLS

These allow you to control the KARMA function as you play. (

☞p.27).

[1]–[8] knobs

These knobs control the assigned RT (Realtime) parameters or GE (Generated Effect) parameters of the KARMA module. (

☞p.27–)

9. [TEMPO] knob

This adjusts the basic tempo for the playback produced by the KARMA function and for the sequencer. The LED located above the knob will blink at quarter note timing for the speciﬁed tempo.

10.Mode keys

Use these keys to enter the desired mode. When you press a key, the LED will light, and you will enter that mode. (

☞p.14).

[COMBI] key

Combination mode will be selected.

[ON/OFF] key

This turns the KARMA function on/off. The LED will light when this function is on.

[LATCH] key

This causes the KARMA function to continue operating even after note-off. (i.e. keys or CHORD TRIGGER keys are released.)

CHORD TRIGGER [ASSIGN] key

Press this when you wish to register a chord from the keyboard or from the MIDI IN connector to the CHORD TRIGGER [1], [2], [3], or [4] keys. (

☞p.27)

CHORD TRIGGER [1], [2], [3], [4] keys

When you press one of these keys, the registered chord will be input to the KARMA module, causing a phrase or pattern to play.

[SCENE] key

Two sets of settings for the KARMA Realtime Controls knobs [1]–[8] and switches [1], [2] can be memorized as “scenes.” Each time you press this switch, you will alternate between the two scenes. The LED of the selected scene will light.

[PROG] key

Program mode will be selected.

[SEQ] key

Sequencer mode will be selected.

[S.PLAY] key

Song Play mode will be selected

[GLOBAL] key

Global mode will be selected

[DISK] key

Disk mode will be selected.

[1] and [2] switches

These switches control the assigned RT (Realtime) parameters or GE (Generated Effect) parameters of the KARMA module. (

☞p.27–)

11.VALUE controllers

The following VALUE controllers are used to set the value of the selected parameter (

☞p.15).

[VALUE] slider

Use this to modify the value of a parameter. This controller is convenient when you wish to make large changes in the value. This slider can also be used as a modulation source.

VALUE [ ][ ] keys

These are used to increase or decrease the parameter value in steps of one. It is convenient to use these to make ﬁne adjustments.

[VALUE] dial

Use this dial to modify the value of the parameter.

Numeric keys [0] – [9], [ENTER] key, [–] key, [./HOLD] key

Use these keys to numerically input a parameter value. Use numeric keys [0]–[9], the [–] key, and the [./HOLD] key to enter the value, and press the [ENTER] key to conﬁrm it. The [./HOLD] key lets you input a value with a decimal point. The [–] key inverts the sign (+/–) of the parameter value.

In addition, [./HOLD] can be used if you wish to select sounds by category in program or combination mode.

By holding down the [ENTER] key and pressing a numeric key [0]–[9], you can select up to ten utility menu commands for the current page.

The [ENTER] key is also used when setting the KARMA Realtime Controls knobs, switches, and keys. (

☞PG p.6)

13. [TIMBRE/TRACK] key, [F1 T1/T9] … [F8

T8/T16] keys

Function [F1]–[F8] keys

These keys select the tabs that are displayed in each page. They are also used to execute utilities and other functions.

Timbre/track select [T1/T9]–[T8/T16] keys

By holding down the [TIMBRE/TRACK] key and pressing a [T1/T9]–[T8/T16] key, you can select the timbre/track parameters corresponding to the key number. When a single page displays the parameters for timbres 1–8 of a Combination or for tracks 1–8/9– 16 of Sequencer mode or Song Play mode, these keys select one of these timbres/tracks.

14.[EXIT] key, [MENU PAGE +/–] key, CURSOR keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ]

[EXIT] key

In Program, Combination, Sequencer, Song Play, and Global modes, pressing this key from anywhere other than page 1.1 will take you to page 1.1 of that mode. When a dialog box is open, this key will cancel the settings made in the dialog box and close the dialog box (corresponds to the “Cancel”). If a Utility menu or page menu is open, pressing [EXIT] will close the menu.

Introduction

Front panel

[COMPARE] key

Use this key when you wish to compare the sound of the program or combination that you are currently editing with the un-edited sound that was written into memory. You can also use this key to make “before and after” comparisons when recording or editing in Sequencer mode (

When you operate the KARMA Realtime Controls knobs [1]–[8] or switches [1]/[2] in Program, Combination, Sequencer, and Song Play modes, pressing the [COMPARE] key will revert to the values that were written. (PG

☞p.16)

12.LCD screen

Here you can select pages, and parameters, and set values. (

☞p.10)

☞p.15).

[MENU PAGE +/–] key

Use this key to select different pages on screen. When you press this key, a list of the pages within the mode will appear in the LCD screen. Use [F1]– [F7] or cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to select the desired page, and press the [F8] key to move to the selected page. You can also move to a desired page by holding down the [MENU] key and using numeric keys [0]–[7] to enter a two-digit page number. In addition, you can hold down the [MENU] key and use cursor keys [ ], [ ] to switch pages in the order of 1.1→2.1→2.2→2.3. (

☞p.14)

CURSOR keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ]

Use these keys to select different parameters on screen. In addition, you can hold down the [MENU] key and use cursor keys [ ], [ ] to switch pages on screen.

15. [BANK] keys

These keys are used to switch Program/Combination banks.

16.SEQUENCER

[PAUSE] key

In Sequencer mode, this key pauses the song or cue list playback. In Song Play mode, this keypauses SMF playback. When paused, the LED will light. Press [PAUSE] once again to defeat pause, the LED will turn off.

[ REW] key

In Sequencer mode this key rewinds the song or cue list playback. When you press and hold this key, the LED will light, and the playback will rewind. (This will not function during recording.)

PROG BANK: [A], [B], [C], [D], [E], [F], [G]

When selecting programs, use keys [A], [B], [C], [D], [E], ([F], only available when the EXB-MOSS is installed), and [G]. The LED of the selected bank will light. Each time you press [G], you will cycle through the GM(2) variation banks and the drum bank as follows: G, g(1), g(2), ... g(8), g(9), g(d), G ... etc.

COMBI BANK: [A], [B], [C], [D], [E], [F]

When selecting combinations, use keys [A], [B], [C], [D], [E] and [F]. The LED of the selected bank will light. In Combination, Sequencer, and Song Play modes when the edit cell (highlighted area) is located at the program of a timbre or track, you can use the BANK keys to select the bank of the program. The bank LED of the program selected for that timbre/track will light. In dialog boxes such as Write Program or Write Combination, these keys are used to specify the program or combination bank that will be the writing destination, etc.

[FF ] key

In Sequencer mode this key fast-forwards the song or cue list playback. When you press and hold this key, the LED will light, and the playback will fastforward. (This will not function during recording.)

[LOCATE] key

In Sequencer mode, this key returns the song or cue list playback location to the speciﬁed point. In Song Play mode, this key returns the playback location of the SMF to the speciﬁed point. If for some reason any “stuck notes” occur, press this key.

[REC/WRITE] key

In Sequencer mode, pressing this key will make the LED light, and if you then press the [START/ STOP] key, recording will begin ( In Program, Combination and Global modes, pressing this key will open a dialog box, and if you then press the [F8] (“OK”) key, the edited contents will be written (

☞p.38, p.40).

☞p.62).

[START/STOP] key

This is the start/stop key for song or cue list recording and playback in Sequencer mode, and SMF playback in Song Play mode. (During recording and playback, the LED will blink in time with the beat.)

Rear panel

Introduction

1. [POWER] switch

This switch turns the power on/off (☞p.17).

2. AC power supply connector (~AC9V)

Connect this to the included AC/AC power supply. After connecting the power supply cable to this instrument, connect the other end to an AC outlet (

☞p.12).

3. AUDIO OUTPUT

Connect these outputs to the input jacks of your amp or mixer. In addition to the L/MONO and R main stereo audio outputs, this instrument provides two individual audio outputs. The sound from each oscillator, drum, timbre/track, or insertion effect can be freely routed to any output (

☞p.97–).

(MAIN) L/MONO, R

These are unbalanced phone jacks (☞p.107). These are the main audio output jacks. By setting “Bus Select” to L/R, the output from an oscillator, an insertion effect, an individual drum part, or the metronome can be output to the (MAIN) L/ MONO and R jacks. When making connections in stereo, use L/MONO and R. When making connections in mono, use the L/MONO jack.

(INDIVIDUAL) 1, 2

These are unbalanced phone jacks (☞p.107). These are individual (independent) audio output jacks. These are individual (independent) audio output jacks. By several times to make the “Bus Select” to 1, 2, 1/2 an oscillator, an insertion effect, an individual drum part, or the metronome etc. can be assigned to be output from the (INDIVIDUAL) 1, 2 jacks. The output from the 1, 2 jacks is not affected by the [VOLUME] slider.

ASSIGNABLE PEDAL jack

A separately sold Korg EXP-2 or XVP-10 expression pedal can be connected here ( Its function can be assigned in Global mode, allowing you to use the pedal to control the volume, etc. (

☞p.101)

☞p.13).

DAMPER jack

A separately sold switch-type pedal such as the Korg DS-1H damper pedal can be connected here. If a DS-1H is connected, it will function as a halfdamper pedal. If another switch-type pedal is connected, it will function as a damper switch. In order to ensure that the half-damper pedal functions correctly, please adjust the polarity and the sensitivity (PG

☞p.135, 145).

5. MIDI

MIDI IN connector

Musical data and sound settings etc. are received at this connector. Use this to play this instrument from another connected MIDI device (

☞PG p.245).

MIDI OUT connector

Musical data and sound settings etc. are transmitted from this connector. Use this to control another connected MIDI device from this instrument (

☞PG p.245).

MIDI THRU connector

Musical data and sound settings etc. that are received at the MIDI IN connector are re-transmitted without change from the MIDI THRU connector. You can use this to connect multiple MIDI devices via MIDI cables (

☞PG p.245).

Rear panel

4. Pedal connections

ASSIGNABLE SWITCH jack

A separately sold on/off foot switch such as the Korg PS-1 foot switch can be connected here (

☞p.13).

Its function can be assigned in Global mode, allowing you to use the foot switch as a modulation controller, to select programs or combinations, or to start/stop the sequencer (

☞p.101).

Objects and functions in the LCD screen

a: Current page d: Edit cell

c: Parameter

b: T ab

a: Current page

This indicates the currently selected page within the mode. From the left, this area shows the mode

name, page number:name, tab name, and the parameter name of the edit cell.

Mode name

Page number:name

Tab name

b: Tab

Most pages are divided into two or more tabs. By pressing the closest function key [F1]–[F7], you can select a tab to access the corresponding page.

e: Check box

f: Function buttons

Parameter name

f: Function buttons

By pressing the function key [F1]–[F8] nearest this button, you can turn various functions on/off.

: In Combination, Sequencer, or Song Play modes, these are used to select the KARMA module that you wish to edit.

, : In Song Play mode or Disk mode, these select the current directory.

: Accesses the utility menu where you can execute utility menu commands.

Other function buttons examples

Sequencer mode:

Song Play mode:

Global mode:

EDIT/DONE, INSERT, CUT, COPY, JUMP, DONE, Tie, Rest, Back, Done (used in Cue List, Event Edit, Step Recording) REVERT (copy and paste RPPR settings)

ADD, DELETE (create jukebox list)

TEXT, KEY+, –

* Utility menu

c: Parameters

The parameters for various settings are displayed in the LCD screen. Use cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to select the desired parameter.

d: Edit cell

When you use the cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ], the selected parameter will be highlighted in the LCD screen. This area is called the edit cell, and your editing will affect the highlighted area. The parameter value of the edit cell can be modiﬁed using VALUE controllers such as the [VALUE] slider, [VALUE] dial or the VALUE [ ], [ ] keys (

☞p.15). For parameters that accept a key number

or a velocity value, you can also hold down the [ENTER] key and play a note on the keyboard to enter the key number or velocity value.

e: Check box

Use cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to select a check box (edit cell), and use a VALUE controller such as the [VALUE] slider, [VALUE] dial or the VALUE [ ], [ ] keys to add or remove the check mark. When checked, the parameter will function, when unchecked, the parameter will not function.

In each page, you can press the “UTILITY” function button (the [F8] key) to access the utility menu. The utility menu contains commands that can be used in that page. The utility menu that appears will differ depending on the page that is selected.

You can also select up to ten utility menu commands by holding down the [ENTER] key and pressing a numeric key [0]–[9]. Press the [EXIT] key to close the utility menu.

For , press the [F7] key to select the desired utility menu command. You can also use the cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to make your selection. For

, press the [F8] key to open the dialog box of the selected utility menu command. This key also switches the status of commands that you check or uncheck.

* Dialog boxes

When you select a utility menu command etc., a dialog box will open. Use the cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to select parameters. Use the VALUE controllers ( input the parameter values. When selecting program or combination numbers in a dialog box, you can use the BANK [A]–[G] keys in addition to the VALUE controllers. As in the utility menu, press the function key [F1]– [F8] nearest etc. (function button 2) to access

☞p.15) to

the execution or operation screen. In some cases, a dialog box will appear. Follow the directions shown in the dialog box. To execute, select (press the [F8] key). To cancel without executing, select (press the [F7] key). The dialog box will close. The [EXIT] key is equivalent to “Cancel,” “Done,” or “Exit.”

* Page menu

In Combination, Program, Sequencer, Song Play, or Global modes, pressing the [MENU] key will display a list of the pages in that mode. (The page in which you where when you pressed the [MENU] key will be highlighted.)

To select a page, press the nearest function key [F1]–[F7]. By pressing the same key you can move consecutively downward. You can also use cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to move left/up/down/ right.

Introduction

* Function buttons 2

Press the function key [F1]–[F8] nearest this button to execute the function.

Utility menu, etc.

* Text dialog box

When you use the function keys to select etc, a text dialog box will appear. In this dialog box you can rename text (e.g., the name of a program, combination, or song). (

* Scroll bar

This indicates that the list contains selections or parameters that cannot all be shown in the screen at once. Use the cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to move within the list.

+p.39)

Scroll bar

You can also move to the desired page by holding down the [MENU] key and using numeric keys [0]–[7] to enter a two-digit page number. In addition, you can hold down the [MENU] key and use the cursor keys [ ] [ ] to move in steps of one page; in the example shown below, this would be Play Æ P/M Æ Ctrl Æ MOSS (if the EXB-MOSS is installed) Æ Prm1 Æ ... etc.

* Other objects

To use slider- or knob-shaped objects, or chain parameter values, use the cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to select the desired item, and use the VALUE controllers to adjust the value. Other types of objects are shown in the effect routing screen. (

+p.97)

Knobs ChainSliders

Objects and functions in the LCD

Objects and functions in the LCD screen

Routing

Connections

Connecting audio equipment etc.

Connections must be made with the power turned off. Please be aware that careless operation may damage your speaker system or cause malfunctions.

1. Connecting the power cable

● Connect the included AC/AC power supply to the

AC power supply inlet of this instrument, and then connect the other end of the cable to an AC outlet.

2. Connecting audio output devices

AUDIO OUTPUT (MAIN) L/MONO, R, (INDIVIDUAL) 1, 2

Here, you can connect a set of ampliﬁed monitor speakers or your audio system to output this instrument’s sound. If you wish to use the AUDIO OUTPUT (INDIVIDUAL) 1–2 jacks of this instrument, we recommend that you use a mixer.

If you playback this instrument through your stereo audio system, be aware that high volumes may damage your speakers. Be careful not to raise the volume excessively.

● Connect the AUDIO OUTPUT (MAIN) L/MONO

and R jacks to the INPUT jacks of your powered monitor system, mixer etc.

L/MONO and R are the main outputs. If you are outputting in stereo, make connections to the (MAIN) L/MONO jack and the R jack. If you are outputting in monaural, make connections to the (MAIN) L/MONO jack. We recommend that you playback in stereo if possible.

● If you wish to output from the AUDIO OUTPUT

(INDIVIDUAL) 1, 2, jacks, connect these jacks to your mixer, and then connect the mixer output to the INPUT of your powered monitor system etc.

For details on the output of each jack (

☞p.97–“Rout-

ing”).

Headphones

When using headphones, plug them into the headphones jack located on the front panel.

Powered monitors, etc.

INPUT

OUTPUT

INPUT

Power switch

PHONES

AC power supply inlet

Headphones

PHONES

Headphones

to an AC outlet

3. Connecting pedals etc.

Connections to MIDI equipment /

Foot pedal connections

Connect a separately sold Korg assignable pedal such as the XVP-10 or EXP-2 to the rear panel ASSIGNABLE PEDAL jack. The function controlled by the foot pedal is speciﬁed in GLOBAL 6.1-1i Controller, Foot page “Foot Pedal Assign” (

☞p.101, PG p145, 233 ).

Foot switch connections

A foot switch controls sostenuto, soft pedal on/off, arpeggiator on/off, to select programs or combinations, and to start/stop the sequencer etc. Connect a separately sold Korg foot switch such as the PS-1 to the rear panel ASSIGNABLE SWITCH jack. The function that will be controlled by the foot switch and the polarity of the foot switch can be set in GLOBAL 6.1-1i Controller, Foot page “Foot Switch Assign,” and “Foot Switch Polarity” (

☞p.101, PG 145, 232).

Damper pedal connections

Allows you to sustain the sound while playing. Connect a Korg DS-1H damper pedal (separately sold option) to the rear panel DAMPER jack. If a DS-1H is connected, you can produce half-damper effects. The polarity of the damper pedal can be set in GLOBAL 6.1-1: Controller, Foot “Damper Polarity,” and its sensitivity can be adjusted by the GLOBAL 1.1-1 System utility menu command “Half Damper Calibration.” (

☞PG p.135, 145)

computers (MIDI connectors)

1. Connections to MIDI equipment

The keyboard, controllers, and sequencer etc. of this instrument can be used to control an external MIDI tone generator. Conversely, another MIDI keyboard or sequencer can control the tone generator of this instrument to produce sound.

● Use MIDI cables to connect the MIDI connectors

of this instrument with the MIDI connectors of your external device.

☞ PG p.245 “MIDI applications – Connecting MIDI

equipment / computers”

2. Connections to a computer

Your performance on this instrument, as well as controller and sequencer data, can be sent to a computer (connected via MIDI interface), and the tone generator of this instrument can be played from the computer.

● Use a MIDI interface to connect the MIDI connec-

tors of this instrument to the MIDI connectors of your computer.

☞ PG p.245 “MIDI applications – Connecting MIDI

equipment/computers”

Introduction

computers (MIDI connectors)

Connections to MIDI equipment /

Basic operation

Selecting modes, pages and tabs; setting parameters

1. Selecting modes

● In order to use a particular function on the

KARMA, you must ﬁrst select the appropriate mode. Press one of the front panel mode keys ([COMBI] key – [DISK] key) to enter the corresponding mode.

[COMBI] key: Combination mode [PROG] key: Program mode [SEQ] key: Sequencer mode [S.PLAY] key: Song Play mode [GLOBAL] key: Global mode [DISK] key: Disk mode

2. Selecting pages and tabs

Each mode has a large number of parameters, which are grouped into pages. Each page is further divided into as many as seven groups. These are referred to as

“tabs.”

Selecting a page

1 Make sure that the desired mode is selected.

To select a mode, press the appropriate mode key ([COMBI] – [DISK]). Here we will use Combination mode as an example for our explanation. Press the [COMBI] key.

3 Press the function key [F1]–[F7] that is nearest the

page you wish to select.

If multiple pages are assigned to one function key, press the same key to move the cursor downward. You can also use the [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] cursor keys to move.

4 Press the [F8] (“Open”) key.

When you press the [F8] key, you will jump to the selected page, and that page will appear.

As an example here, press the [F3] key three times to select “KeyZ,” and then press the [F8] (“Open”) key. The 3.3: Ed-Key Zone page will appear.

You can also use the following alternative methods to select a page.

• Press the [MENU] key, and then use the [ ] [ ] keys to move forward or backward through the pages in the order of 1.1→2.1→2.2→2.3 etc.

• Hold down the [MENU] key, and use numeric keys [1]–[7] to enter a two-digit page number to move directly to the corresponding page. (To select the page shown above, you would press [3], [3].) If only one page is assigned to each function key (group), as in COMBI 1.1: Play or the pages of Global mode, the first digit of the numeric key [1]– [7] will move to the corresponding page.

The page selected at this time will be the page that was last selected. If there is no corresponding page, nothing will happen.

When you press the [EXIT] key, you will return to

1.1 from any page.

Selecting a tab

5 Press the function key [F1]–[F7] that is nearest the

tab displayed at the bottom of the LCD screen.

As an example, we will select the “Review” tab. Press the [F5] key.

2 Press the [MENU] key.

The page menu will appear.

In Disk mode there is only one page, so the page menu will not appear.

Some pages have no tabs.

6 To move to another page, press the [MENU] key

and repeat the procedure from step 3.

3. Selecting parameters

Use the [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] cursor keys to select the parameter that you wish to edit.

In Combination mode pages that display timbres 1–8, or in Sequencer and Song Play mode pages that display tracks 1–8 or 9–16, you can hold down the [TIMBRE/ TRACK] key and press the nearest function key [F1]– [F8] to select the desired timbre or track.

BANK [A]–[G] keys

The [BANK] keys are used in Program mode to select the program bank and in Combination mode to select the combination bank. In Combination mode, they are also used to select the program bank for each timbre of the combination. In Sequencer and Song Play modes, these keys are used to select the bank of the program used by each track of the song.

These keys are also used to specify the bank in dialog boxes such as Write Program or Write Combination.

Introduction

4. Setting a parameter

The parameter value in the edit cell can be set by using the front panel VALUE controllers (VALUE [ ], [ ] keys, [VALUE] dial, [VALUE] slider numeric keys [0]– [9], [–] key, [./HOLD] key, and [ENTER] key). As necessary, you can also use the BANK [A]–[G] keys, and the [COMPARE] key. In the case of parameters that require you to enter a note or velocity value, you can enter the value by playing a key on the keyboard while holding down the [ENTER] key.

VALUE controllers

[VALUE] slider

Use this when you wish to make major changes in the value. In Program mode and Combination mode, this slider can also be used as a control source for alternate modulation or dynamic modulation. (This is active in Program or Combination 1.1: Play when the “Program Select” or “Combination Select” is selected).

VALUE [ ], [ ] keys

Use these when you wish to make ﬁne adjustments to the value.

[VALUE] dial

Use this when you wish to make large changes in a value.

Numeric keys [0]–[9], [ENTER] key, [–] key, [./HOLD] key

Use these when you know the parameter value that you wish to input. After using the numeric keys [0]–[9] to input a number, press the [ENTER] key to ﬁnalize the parameter value. Use the [–] key to enter negative numbers. Use the [./HOLD] key to enter a decimal point. In the

1.1: Play page of Program and Combination modes, the [./HOLD] key will perform the Category Hold or 10’s Hold function. (☞PG p.2) The [ENTER] key is also used when setting the KARMA Realtime Controls knobs and switches. (☞PG p.6)

[COMPARE] key

Use this key when you wish to compare an edited program or combination sound with the un-edited original (i.e., the sound that is written into memory). When editing a program or combination, press this key. The LED will light, and the last-written settings for that program number or combination number will be recalled. When you press the [COMPARE] key once again, the LED will go dark and you will return to the settings that you were editing. If you edit the settings that are recalled by pressing the [COMPARE] key (i.e., the settings that are written into memory), the LED will go dark, and it will not be possible to return to the previous settings by pressing the [COMPARE] key again.

In Sequencer mode, you can use the [COMPARE] key to make “before and after” comparisons immediately after using realtime recording or step recording to record a song, or after performing a track edit operation.

For example, this can be used effectively when realtime-recording a track for a song.

1 Realtime-record a track. (Take 1)

2 Once again, realtime-record on the same track.

(Take 2)

3 Press the [COMPARE] key. The LED will light,

and take 1 will be recalled.

4 Press the [COMPARE] key once again. The LED

will turn off, and take 2 will be recalled.

5 If after recording two different takes on the same

track, you record a third, the Compare function will now alternate between the second and third takes. Recording a fourth take will mean that Compare now alternates between takes three and four, and so on. In this fashion, Compare always alternates between the last two recorded passes that are made on the same track.

Basic operation

In this way, the Compare function lets you recall the previous recording or the previous state of event editing.

The Compare function is not available Global modes.

When operating the KARMA Realtime Controls knobs [1]–[8] and switches [1]/[2] in Program, Combination, Sequencer, and Song Play modes, pressing the [COMPARE] key will revert to the settings that were written. (☞PG p.6)

Keyboard input

When inputting a note name or velocity value as the value of a parameter, you can use the keyboard to input the setting. Hold down the [ENTER] key and play the note that you wish to enter as a value. The note name (number) or velocity value will be input.

When the GLOBAL 5.1: DKit page or SEQ 5.1: RPPR, RPPR Setup page is displayed, you can hold down the [ENTER] key and play a note to recall the settings that have been assigned to the note you played.

Quick Start

Turning the power on/off

Before you turn on the power, make sure that the desired connections have been made as described in “Connections” (☞p.12).

1. Turning the power on

1 Press KARMA Music Workstation’S [POWER]

switch to turn on the power.

The LCD screen will display the name of your model, and the software version. (The following graphic shows the factory-set LCD screen . The version number is subject to change without notice.)

2 Turn on your powered monitors or stereo amp.

3 Raise this instrument’s [VOLUME] slider to an

appropriate level, and adjust the volume of your powered monitors or stereo amp.

2. Turning the power off

1 Set this instrument’s [VOLUME] slider and the vol-

ume of your powered monitor or stereo amp to zero.

2 Turn off the power of your powered monitor or

stereo amp.

3 Press this instrument’s [POWER] switch to turn off

the power.

Never turn off the power while data is being written into internal memory. If the power is turned off while processing is being performed, memory write operations will not be completed correctly. If this occurs, this instrument will automatically initialize its internal memory so that it will operate correctly. This is not a malfunction.

While data is being written, the LCD screen will indicate “Now writing into internal memory.” Data is written into internal memory by the following operations.

• Writing (updating) a Program, Combination, Global Setting, or Drum Kit

• Loading Program, Combination, Global Setting, or Drum Kit data in Disk mode

• Receiving a MIDI data dump for Program, Combination, Global Setting, or Drum Kit data

The mode and page that will be selected when the power is turned on

The state of this instrument when the power is turned on will depend on the setting of “Power On Mode” (GLOBAL 1.1: System, Preference page).

If “Power On Mode” is Reset (factory setting), this instrument will automatically selects the Combination mode 1.1: Play.

If “Power On Mode” is Memorize, this instrument will be in the mode and page that were last selected when the power was turned off.

The Memorize setting will remember the mode and page that were last selected, the combination number that was last selected in Combination mode, and the program number that was last selected in Program mode. If another mode is selected when the power is turned on, you can press the [COMBI] key or [PROG] key to select the 1.1: Play page with the last-selected combination number or program number.

The LCD screen when separately sold options are installed (When the power on)

This instrument allows you to install separately sold options. When the power is turned on, the type of installed options will be displayed. After installing an option, be sure to check this display to verify that the option was installed correctly. If the option is not displayed here even though it was installed, it was not installed correctly. Turn off the power and re-install the option. (☞For details on installing an option, refer to PG p.264)

OPTIONS

EXB-PCM Slot1 ( EXB-PCM Slot2 (

A PCM expansion board is installed in EXB-PCM series slot 1, 2. The type of board is shown in parentheses.

EXB-MOSS: The EXB-MOSS option is installed.

**** ****

): ):

Listening to a demo song

Contents of the disks

This instrument comes with one ﬂoppy disk (KMFD00P).

PRELOAD.PCG

• Preloaded data (programs, combinations, drum kits, global settings)

When you load PRELOAD.PCG, it will be written into internal memory. This data is preserved even if the power is turned off.

When you load PRELOAD.PCG, the data that had been written before loading this data will be rewritten. If you wish to keep this data, you must ﬁrst save it on a ﬂoppy disk before loading PRELOAD.PCG (☞p.38).

PRELOAD.SNG

• Demonstration song and demonstration cue list data

When you load PRELOAD.SNG, it will be written into internal sequencer memory. This memory is volatile, and the data will be lost when the power is turned off.

When you load PRELOAD.SNG, the data that had been written before loading this data will be rewritten. If you wish to keep this data, you must ﬁrst save it on a ﬂoppy disk before loading PRELOAD.SNG. (☞p.38)

Loading the demo song data in Disk mode

1 Insert the included “KMFD-00P” ﬂoppy disk into

the disk drive.

For details on handling a ﬂoppy disk and inserting it into the disk drive, refer to ☞p.93.

2 Press the [DISK] key (the LED will light).

You will enter Disk mode.

3 Press the [F1] (“Load”) key to access the Load page.

File information will be displayed.

4 Use the cursor keys [ ], [ ] to select “PRE-

LOAD.SNG.”

The display will be highlighted. This is the demo song data.

5 Press the [F8] (“UTILITY”) key, and choose the

“Load selected” utility.

6 Press [8]“OK” key.

A dialog box will appear.

7 Press the check boxes to add a check mark.

Press the VALUE [ ] to check “Load PRE- LOAD.PCG too.” When the data is loaded, the

.PCG ﬁle will be loaded along with the .SNG ﬁle.

8 Press the [F8] (“OK”) key.

The data will be loaded in the order of PRELOAD.PCG and PRELOAD.SNG.

Never remove the media while data is being loaded.

If the Memory Protected dialog box appears, uncheck memory protect, and try the loading operation once again. (☞p.38)

Selecting and playing a demon-

Playing a cue list

stration song in Sequencer mode

1 Press the [SEQ] key (the LED will light).

You will enter Sequencer mode.

2 Access the SEQ 1.1: Play/REC, Play/REC page.

Play/REC page

SEQ 1.1:

Play/REC

Song Select

If the SEQ 1.1: Play/REC, Play/REC page does not appear, select it as follows.

1) Press the [MENU] key. The LCD screen will show a list of the pages in Sequencer mode.

2) Press the [F1] key to select “P/R,” and press the [F8] (“OPEN”) key.

3) Press the [F1] key. The SEQ 1.1: Play/REC, Play/ REC page will be displayed.

3 Use the cursor keys [ ], [ ] to choose “Song

Select.”

The song name will be highlighted.

4 Use the VALUE [ ], [ ] keys or other [VALUE]

controllers to select the demo song that you wish to play.

5 Press the [START/STOP] key.

The LED will blink and the selected song will play.

6 If you wish to stop playback, press the [START/

STOP] key once again.

Here’s how to playback the demonstration cue list. By using a cue list, you can repeatedly play multiple songs that you specify in the cue list, or play songs consecutively. (☞p.68)

1 Press the [MENU] key.

2 Press the [F2] key to select “CUE,” and then press

the [F8] (“OPEN”) key.

The SEQ 2.1: CUE List, Setup&Play page will appear.

3 Press the [START/STOP] key.

4 To stop playback, press the [START/STOP] key

once again.

If the last step is End, playback will stop automatically when it reaches that point. If the last step is Continue to Step01, playback will return to the ﬁrst step and continue.

To select a cue list, choose “Cue List Select,” and use the same procedure as when selecting a song.

Refer to step 4 above.

Quick Start

Listening to a demo song

Selecting and playing a program

In Program mode you can select a program from banks A–G and play it. Here we will show how to select pre-

set programs. Select various programs and hear how they sound.

Selecting a program

1 Press the [PROG] key. (LED lit)

You will enter Program mode. Make sure that the upper line of the LCD screen indicates “PROG 1.1: Play.”

Category

Program Bank

Program Select

Selecting a program number

2 Make sure that “Program Select” is selected.

If it is not selected, use the cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to highlight the program name in “Program Select.”

3 Use the VALUE controllers to select the program

that you wish to play.

You can use the following methods to select a program.

• Rotate the [VALUE] dial.

• Press the VALUE [ ] or [ ] key.

• Use numeric keys [0]–[9] to specify the number,

and press the [ENTER] key.

In the 1.1: Play page, the [VALUE] slider will function as a controller, and cannot be used to select programs.

4 Audition the sound.

Play a note on the keyboard to hear the sound you selected.

Selecting the program bank

In Program mode, you can switch banks to select programs from another bank. With the factory settings, banks A, B, E and G–g(d) contain programs. (☞ table bellow)

5 Press a BANK [A]–[G] key to select a bank.

The selected bank will be displayed in the left side of the LCD screen. For example if you wish to select bank B, press the BANK [B] key. (The upper left of the LCD screen will indicate Bank B.)

Bank Prog. No. Explanation

A, B, E 000…127 for preloaded programs C, D 000…127 for EXB-PCM series programs or

user programs F 000…127 for EXB-MOSS programs G 000…128 GM2 capital programs g(1)…g(9) (☞VNL) GM2 variation programs g(d) (☞VNL) GM2 drum programs

A, B, E With the factory settings, these banks contain

a wide variety of preloaded programs that use the internal PCM ROM multisamples, effects, and the KARMA function.

C, D With the factory settings, these banks do not

contain programs. Programs for the separately sold EXB-PCM series options or programs that you yourself create can be stored in these banks.

F This bank is only available to be selected/

used when the separately sold EXB-MOSS option is installed. It is only used to store EXB-MOSS programs, and cannot hold regular PCM-based Programs.

128 programs can be written or rewritten to each bank

A–F (for a total of 768). G, g(1)...g(9), g(d)

These banks contain 256 and 9 drum programs that are compatible with the GM2 sound map. The programs of these banks are read-only. Bank G contains the GM2 capital programs. They consist of banks G, g(1)–g(9), and g(d). You can select 128 programs, from 001–128. Each time you press the [G] key, the bank will alternate as shown below.

G→g(1)→g(2)→g(3)→g(4)→g(5)→g(6)→g(7) →g(8)→g(9)→g(d)→G

☞ For details of the program names etc., refer to

“VNL” (Voice Name List).

Selecting programs by category

You can select programs by categories such as keyboard, organ, bass, and drums. With the factory settings, all the preloaded programs are organized into sixteen categories. You can choose a category, and then select from the programs in that category.

On this instrument, you can use one of the following two methods to select programs by category.

Select by Category

1 Make sure that PROG 1.1: Play is displayed.

2 Press the [F8] (“UTILITY”) key to access the utility

menu.

4 To exit the Category Hold function, press the [./

HOLD] key twice to erase the display.

In PROG 1.1: Play, pressing the [./HOLD] key will cycle through →→ cancel.

Using 10’s HOLD to select programs

You can ﬁx the ten’s place of the program number as you select programs.

1 Press the [./HOLD] key to make the display indi-

cate .

The ten’s place of the program number will be held (ﬁxed).

Quick Start

3 Press the [F7] key or use the cursor keys [ ], [ ] to

choose “Select by Category,” and press the [F8] key.

The Select Program by Category dialog box will appear. The list within the frame displays the programs included in the category.

Program

Category

4 Choose “Cat,” and use the [VALUE] controllers to

select the category that contains the desired program.

5 Use the cursor keys [ ], [ ] to select a program

within the list. Alternatively, you can use the cursor keys [] [] to select “Index,” and then use the [VALUE] controllers to make your selection.

At this time you can play the keyboard to hear the selected sound.

6 To execute, press the [F8] (“OK”) key. To cancel,

press the [F7] (“Cancel”) key.

2 By pressing a numeric key [0]–[9], you can input

the one’s place in a single action.

3 You can use the VALUE [ ], [ ] keys to change the

ten’s place.

4 To cancel the 10’s HOLD function, press [./HOLD]

to erase the display.

Selecting and playing a program

Using a connected switch to select programs

A separately sold on/off-type switch (such as the separately sold Korg PS-1) can be connected to the rear panel ASSIGNABLE SWITCH connector, and assigned a program select function. (☞p.101)

Selecting programs from a MIDI device

MIDI program change messages can be transmitted from an external MIDI device, and received by this instrument to select programs.(☞PG p.246)

Cat. HOLD (Category Hold)

1 Press the [./HOLD] key to display .

The category will be ﬁxed.

Category

Program

Select

2 Use the cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to choose

“Category,” and use the VALUE controllers to specify the category.

3 Use the cursor keys [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to choose

“Program Select,” and use the VALUE [ ], [ ] keys or [VALUE] dial to successively select programs in that category.

Selecting and playing a combination

In Combination mode you can select a combination from banks A–F and play it. Select various combinations and hear how they sound.

Selecting a combination

1 Press the [COMBI] key. (LED lit)

You will enter Combination mode. Make sure that the upper line of the LCD screen indicates “COMBI

1.1: Play.”

Category

Combination Bank

Combi Select

Selecting a combination number

2 Make sure that “Combi Select” is selected.

If it is not selected, use the [ ], [ ], [ ], [ ] to highlight the combination name in “Combi Select.”

3 Use the [VALUE] controllers to select the combina-

tion that you wish to play.

☞p.20 “Selecting a program” 3

4 Audition the sound.

Play a note on the keyboard to hear the sound you selected.

A, B, E With the factory settings, these banks con-

tain a wide variety of preloaded combinations that use multiple programs, effects, and the KARMA function.

C, D With the factory settings, these banks do not

contain combinations. Combinations for the separately sold EXB-PCM series options or combinations that you yourself create can be stored in these banks.

F With the factory preload, this bank does not

contain any combinations. Combinations for the separately sold EXB-MOSS option are stored in this bank, or you can use it to store your own combinations, using either PCMbased or MOSS-based programs as desired.

128 programs can be written or rewritten to each bank A–F (for a total of 768).

☞ For details of the combination names etc., refer to

“VNL” (Voice Name List).

Selecting combinations by category

You can select combinations from sixteen categories in the same way as for programs. With the factory settings, all the preloaded combinations are organized into sixteen categories. You can choose a category, and then select from the combinations in that category. ☞p.21 “Selecting programs by category”

Selecting the combination bank

In Combination mode, you can switch banks to select combinations from another bank. With the factory settings, banks A, B, and E contain combinations. (☞ table bellow)

5 Press a BANK [A]–[F] key to select a bank.

The selected bank will be displayed in the left side of the LCD screen. For example if you wish to select bank B, press the BANK [B] key. (The upper left of the LCD screen will indicate Bank B.)

Bank Prog. No. Explanation

A, B, E 000…127 for preloaded combinations C, D 000…127 for EXB-PCM series combinations

or user combinations

F 000…127 for EXB-MOSS combinations or

user combinations

Using 10’s HOLD to select combinations

You can ﬁx the ten’s place of the combination number, so that a combination can be selected simply by pressing a numeric key once to change the one’s place. ☞p.21 “Using 10’s HOLD to select programs”

Using a connected switch to select combinations

An separately sold on/off type foot switch such as the Korg PS-1 can be connected to the ASSIGNABLE SWITCH jack, and used to select combinations. (☞p.101)

Selecting combinations from a MIDI device

MIDI program change messages can be transmitted from an external MIDI device, and received by this instrument to select combinations.(☞PG p.247)

Using controllers to modify the sound

This instrument provides a variety of controllers that can be used to control the tone, pitch, volume, effects, and arpeggiator etc. in realtime while you play.

Joystick

–X+X

–Y

JS(+X): Move the joystick toward the right to apply an

effect. Normally this is used to control the pitch (bend up).

JS(–X): Move the joystick toward the left to apply an

effect. Normally this is used to control the pitch (bend down).

JS(+Y): Move the joystick away from yourself to apply

an effect. Normally this is used to control the oscillator LFO (vibrato).

JS(–Y): Move the joystick toward yourself to apply an

effect. Normally this is used to control ﬁlter LFO (wah).

on/off status of the [SW1] and [SW2] keys is saved.

For details on making these settings, refer to ☞p.103 “Setting the function of [SW1] and [SW2]”.

The Lock function

Joystick

When the [SW1] or [SW2] key function is set to JS X Lock, JS+Y Lock, or JS–Y Lock, the sound produced

by moving the joystick can be held even after the joystick is returned to the center position.

When the [SW1] key is set to JS–Y Lock and is operating as a Toggle switch, the lock function can be used as described in the following example.

1 Move the joystick toward yourself to modify the

sound.

2 While continuing to hold the joystick toward your-

self, press [SW1] (the [SW1] key LED will light).

The sound at this point will be held.

Quick Start

Using controllers to modify the sound

You can use the Lock function of SW 1 or 2 to hold the effect even after the joystick is returned to the center position. For the procedure, refer to “SW1, SW2.”

You can use the joystick as a source for alternate modulation or effect dynamic modulation, to control program parameters or effect parameters.

SW1, SW2

You can use these keys as sources for alternate modulation or effect dynamic modulation to control program parameters or effect parameters. These switches can also be used to switch the octave, to turn portamento on/off, or to lock the position of the after touch function.

You can specify the way in which the [SW1] and [SW2] keys will operate: either Toggle, when the assigned function will be switched on/off each time the key is pressed, or Momentary, when the assigned function will be switched on only as long as you hold down the key.

The function of the [SW1] and [SW2] keys can be veriﬁed for Program mode in the 1.1: Play, Program page, or for Combination mode in the 1.1: Play, Combination page. (☞p.25)

When you write a program or combination, the

3 Even if you release the joystick, or move it toward

yourself once again, the sound will remain unchanged from when the [SW1] key was pressed.

This is the “locked” condition. Moving the joystick to left or right will produce the normal result.

4 To release the locked condition, press the [SW1]

key once again.

After touch

When the [SW1] or [SW2] key function is set to AfterT Lock, the sound produced by applying pressure to the

keyboard can be held even after the keyboard is released.

When the [SW1] key is set to AfterT Lock and is oper- ating as a Toggle switch, the lock function can be used as described in the following example.

1 After playing a note, apply pressure to the key-

board (after touch).

The sound will change.

2 While maintaining the pressure on the keyboard,

press [SW1] (the [SW1] key LED will light).

3 Even when you apply further pressure to the key-

board, the sound at the moment you pressed [SW1] key will be held. This is the “locked” condition.

4 To release the locked condition, press the [SW1]

key once again.

you can modify the brightness of the sound.

Level

REALTIME CONTROL [1], [2], [3], [4]

These knobs can be used to control the ﬁlter cutoff frequency and resonance, the amp and ﬁlter EG, volume, portamento time, pan, pitch LFO, or the send levels to the master effects, etc.

1 Press the REALTIME CONTROLS [SELECT] key

to switch the function of the realtime controllers to A mode or B mode.

Each time you press the key, A mode or B mode will be selected alternately, and the corresponding LED will light.

2 Rotate the desired knob to control the sound, etc.

A mode controls

In A mode, knobs [1]–[4] will control/edit the following functions. Placing the knobs in the center (12 o’clock) position will produce the values speciﬁed by the program parameters.

Knob [1]: LPF CUTOFF

Adjust the cutoff frequency of the low pass ﬁlter. When you adjust the cutoff frequency of the ﬁlter, the brightness of the sound will change. The effect will depend on the settings of the program parameters, but normally, rotating the knob toward the left will darken the sound, and rotating it toward the right will brighten it.

Level

LPF

Frequency

Cutoff frequency

Knob [2]: RESONANCE/HPF

Adjust the resonance level of a low pass ﬁlter or the cutoff frequency of a high pass ﬁlter. The content that is controlled will depend on the ﬁlter type speciﬁed by the program.

By adjusting the ﬁlter resonance level, you can increase or decrease the resonance level to add a unique character to the sound.

By adjusting the cutoff frequency of a high pass ﬁlter,

HighLow

LPF HPF

Cutoff

frequency

Knob [3]: EG-INTENSITY

Adjust the ﬁlter EG intensity (the depth at which the ﬁlter EG is applied).

Rotating the knob will affect the depth of the ﬁlter EG. Normally, rotating the knob toward the left will make the ﬁlter EG apply less deeply, and rotating it toward the right will make the ﬁlter EG apply more deeply. Since the ﬁlter EG will operate based on the cutoff frequency of the ﬁlter, knobs [1] and [3] will work together to control the tonal changes produced by the ﬁlter.

Level

Time

Knob [4]: EG-RELEASE

Adjust the EG release times of the ﬁlter and amp. This will determine the time from note-off until the sound disappears.

When you operate the knob, the release times of the ﬁl- ter EG and the amp EG will change. Normally, rotating the knob toward the left will shorten the release time, and rotating it toward the right will lengthen the release time.

note-on

Level

Attack Level

Decay Time

Attack Time

Start Level

Break Level

Sustain Level

Slope Time

note-off

Release Time

Release Level

Time

B mode controls

You can control parameters such as volume, portamento time, pan or ﬁlter and amp EG, pitch LFO, and master effect send levels etc.

The B-mode function settings are made for each individual program, combination, or song. In Sampling mode and Song Play mode, the B-mode functions are set for the entire mode. (☞p.103).

+ 88 hidden pages

Korg KARMA Basic Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

About this manual

The owner’s manuals and how to use them

Conventions in this manual

Table of Contents

Introduction

Introducing

Main features

Overview of the modes

Front and rear panel

Front panel

Rear panel

Objects and functions in the LCD screen

Connections

Connecting audio equipment etc.

1. Connecting the power cable

2. Connecting audio output devices

3. Connecting pedals etc.

1. Connections to MIDI equipment

2. Connections to a computer

Basic operation

1. Selecting modes

2. Selecting pages and tabs

3. Selecting parameters

4. Setting a parameter

Quick Start

Turning the power on/off

1. Turning the power on

2. Turning the power off

Listening to a demo song

Loading the demo song data in Disk mode

Playing a cue list

Selecting and playing a program

Selecting a program

Selecting and playing a combination

Selecting a combination

Using controllers to modify the sound

Joystick

SW1, SW2

REALTIME CONTROL [1], [2], [3], [4]