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
• Close to magnetic fields
Power supply
Please connect the designated AC adapter 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
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
adapter 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. However, 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).
Unexpected malfunctions can result in the loss of memory
contents. Please be sure to save important data on an external
data filer (storage device). Korg cannot accept any responsibility
for any loss or damage which you may incur as a result of data
loss.
Printing conventions in this manual
Knobs and keys printed in BOLD TYPE.
Knobs and keys on the panel of the microKORG areprinted in
BOLD TYPE.
Parameters " "
Parameters are enclosed in "double quotation marks."
Symbols , ,
These symbols respectively indicate cautions, advice, and MIDIrelated explanations.
MIDI-related explanations
CC# is used as an abbreviation for Control Change Number.
In MIDI-related explanations, numbers enclosed in square
brackets [ ] are in hexadecimal notation.
Display indications
The numerical values of various parameters appearing in this
manual are only for explanatory purposes. They may not
necessary match what appears in the display of your
microKORG.
Knob positions and parameters
Knob positions and parameter values appearing in this manual
(p.16 and following) are approximations. There may be slight
discrepancies between knob positions and parameter values.
* Company names, product names, and names of formats etc.
are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
owners.
iii
Thank you for purchasing the Korg synthesizer/
vocoder. To ensure trouble-free enjoyment, please read this manual
carefully and use the product correctly.
Explains how to get started using the microKORG (listen to the demos, select
programs, use the arpeggiator and performance functions), and perform basic
editing.
21. GLOBAL ..........................................................................................................47
v
Table of Contents
Using the microKORG with other MIDI devices (MIDI) ..
Explains how to make connections with other MIDI devices, and explains the
function of the MIDI parameters adjusted by edit control knobs 1–5 for the
corresponding setting of the EDIT SELECT 1/2 knobs.
MIDI on the microKORG................................................................. 48
The analog modeling system of the microKORG uses DSP technology to
simulate an analog synthesizer. Starting with a variety of different oscillator
algorithms (such as the sawtooth and square waves familiar to users of analog
synthesizers) you can use the various controls located on the front panel to edit
any sound, or to create sounds of your own. All sound parameters are organized
into “sections”. By selecting the appropriate section and turning the appropriate
knob you can edit sounds quickly, easily and intuitively. You can also modify the
sound in realtime as you perform.
Number of timbres:maximum 2 (when layer is used)
Maximum polyphony:4 voices
Structure:2 oscillators + noise generator: sawtooth wave, square wave,
triangle wave, sine wave, Vox wave, DWGS x 64, Noise,
Audio In (eight types)
PWM function, OSC Sync function, Ring Mod. function, OSC
Sync+Ring Mod. function
Multimode filters: -24 dB/oct LPF, -12 dB/oct LPF, -12 dB/
oct BPF, -12 dB/oct HPF (four types)
Filter EQ, Amp EG, LFO1, LFO2 (LFO: six waveforms, can be
synchronized to the arpeggiator or to external MIDI clock)
2. Vocoder
You can connect a mic to one of the microKORG's AUDIO IN 1 jacks, and use it as
a vocoder – a device that imposes the spectral character of a voice (or other audio
signal) on the sound of an oscillator, producing the impression that the oscillator is
speaking.
The vocoder consists of eight channels (sixteen filters used in pairs). In addition to
simulating the sounds of classic vocoder units, you can change the filter frequency
and adjust the level and pan of each band to create original vocoder sounds.
Maximum polyphony:
Structure:
4 voices
8 channel vocoder, adjustable level/pan for each channel,
Formant Shift function, 1 oscillator + noise generator (eight types)
Filter EG, Amp EG, LFO1, LFO2 (LFO: six waveforms, can be
synchronized to the arpeggiator or to external MIDI clock)
3. 128 built-in programs
The microKORG contains 128 built-in programs. When shipped, the TRANCE–
S.E./HIT banks contain 112 synth programs, and the VOCODER bank contains
16 vocoder programs.
4. Process the waveform of an external input source
The waveform of an external audio source can be input via the AUDIO IN 1 and
2 jacks, and processed in the same way as the internal waveforms.
5. Virtual Patch function
Modulators and controllers such as filter EG, amp EG, LFO 1/2, keyboard
tracking, and wheel can be virtually patched (without using actual patch cables)
to parameters such as pitch, cutoff, and amp. This gives you even more creative
flexibility.
6. Effects to add the finishing touch to your sound
For even greater possibilities, the microKORG provides three types of modulation effect, three types of delay, and an equalizer.
The delay effect can be synchronized with the arpeggiator or an external MIDI
clock, allowing numerous applications in live performance.
7. Step Arpeggiator
The microKORG's arpeggiator lets you produce an arpeggio simply by holding
down a chord.
You can choose from six arpeggio types, and adjust the duration and spacing of
the arpeggiated notes. You can also specify whether a note will be on or off for
each of up to eight steps, letting you create a broad range of modified rhythms
and other effects.
1
Front and rear panel
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Front panel
Items on the front panel that relate
to the Vocoder are printed in green.
VOLUME knob
Adjusts the volume of the output
from the OUTPUT jacks (L/MONO, R) and headphone jack.
ARPEGGIATOR ON/OFF key
Switches the arpeggiator on/off.
(When on, the key LED will light.)
ARPEGGIATOR TEMPO LED
Blinks at the tempo of the
arpeggiator performance. If MIDI
CLOCK is set to External and MIDI
Clock data is being received from
the MIDI IN connector, this LED
will blink at that tempo.
OCTAVE SHIFT UP, DOWN keys
Shifts the pitch range of the
keyboard in steps of an octave, over
a range of +/-3 octaves.
PITCH wheel
Controls the pitch.
MOD wheel
Controls the depth of modulation.
BANK SELECT dial
Selects the program bank.
BANK SIDE key
Switches between the two sides of each program bank.
(The indicator is dark when side A is selected, and lit
when side B is selected.)
This indicator will blink when the microKORG receives
a MIDI program change, or if the BANK SELECT dial
no longer matches the actual bank.
AUDIO IN 1/2 LEDs
These will light if a signal is being input to the
AUDIO IN jacks. They will light red if an
input overload occurs.
Display
Indicates the current program number,
the value of the selected parameter, or
other various messages.
WRITE key
Saves an edited program or global
setting. (➝p.58)
SHIFT key
By holding down this key and pressing
another key, you can access various
utility functions. (➝p.59)
Also, while this key is lit, it will
function as an EXIT key to exit the
current state and return to normal
operation.
PROGRAM NUMBER
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 keys
Select program numbers (the LED of
the selected key will light).
You can also use these keys to turn each
of the eight steps of the arpeggio
on/off, adding variety to an
arpeggiated performance. (➝p.11)
In addition, you can hold down the
SHIFT key and press one of these keys
to access various utility functions.
(SHIFT function)
2
Front and rear panel
TIMBRE SELECT/FORMANT HOLD key
If a Synth program using "layer" is selected,
this key allows you to chose which timbre
will be edited or sounded, or lets you edit
both timbres simultaneously (Sync).
If a Vocoder program is selected, this key
switches Formant Hold on, letting you hold
the tone currently produced by the vocoder
without continuing to speak into the mic.
TIMBRE SELECT 1 LED,
TIMBRE SELECT 2 LED
If a Synth program using Layer is selected,
the LED(s) will light to indicate which
timbre(s) will be edited. If a timbre is being
soloed, its LED will blink.
If a Vocoder program is selected, the 1 LED
will light if the formants are being held.
EDIT SELECT 1 dial,
EDIT SELECT 2 dial
These dials select the section to edit.
(➝p.12)
SYNTH/VOCODER 1 LED,
SYNTH/VOCODER 2 LED
These indicate whether the selected
program is a Synth or a Vocoder program.
If both the SYNTH/VOCODER 1 and 2
LEDs are lit, the Performance Edit function
is enabled.
If only one LED is lit, the EDIT SELECT
knob corresponding to the lit LED will be
the object of your editing. If the object of
editing has not been finalized, the LED will
blink.
ORIGINAL V ALUE LED
This will light if the value of the parameter
currently being edited matches the value that is
stored in the program. (➝p.13)
(This LED does not function for Performance
Edit.)
EDIT CONTROLS 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 knobs
These knobs edit the Performance Edit
parameters or the parameters of the section
selected by the EDIT SELECT 1 and 2
knobs. (➝p.8, 9, 10)
Vocoder parameters
These are the parameters
for a Vocoder program.
Synth parameters
These are the parameters
for a Synth program.
3
Front and rear panel
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Rear panel
AUDIO IN 1
A Synth program can use an audio signal from a synthesizer or external device
connected here as the oscillator 1 waveform.
AUDIO IN 2
A Synth program can use an audio signal from an
external device connected here as the oscillator 1
waveform.
A Vocoder program uses this input signal as the
external carrier for the vocoder.
VOLUME 2 knob
Adjusts the input level
from the LINE jack.
LINE jack
Connect a synthesizer
or audio device here.
A Vocoder program can use an audio signal from a mic etc. connected here as the
modulator audio.
MIC/LINE switch
If a mic is connected to the DYNAMIC
or CONDENSER jack, set this switch to
the MIC position. If an external
sequencer or audio device is connected,
set this switch to the LINE position.
VOLUME 1 knob
Adjusts the input level from the
DYNAMIC or CONDENSER jack.
CONDENSER jack
Connect a condenser mic to this jack.
DYNAMIC jack
Connect a dynamic mic, synthesizer, or
audio device to this jack.
If both the DYNAMIC jack and the
CONDENSER jack are connected, the
audio signal from the CONDENSER jack
will take priority.
OUTPUT L/MONO, R jacks
Connect these to your powered
monitors, stereo amp, mixer, or
multi-track recorder.
If you want to use the microKORG
in monaural, connect the L/MONO
jack.
HEADPHONES jacks
Connect a pair of
headphones to this jack
(1/4" stereo).
Power switch
Switches the power on/off. (➝p.6)
AC adaptor jack
Connect the included AC adaptor to
this jack. After connecting the AC
adaptor to the microKORG, plug it
into an AC outlet.
MIDI
Use these connectors to connect the microKORG to an external MIDI
device so that MIDI data can be exchanged.
MIDI THRU connector
Received MIDI data is
re-transmitted without
change from this
connector. Use this
when you want to
connect multiple MIDI
devices to the same
"stream" of data.
MIDI OUT connector
This connector
transmits MIDI data.
MIDI IN connector
This connector receives
MIDI data.
Mic holder
You can attach the included
mic to this holder (➝p.5).
4
Preparations
Connections
The diagram below shows basic connections for the microKORG. Make substitutions as appropriate for your equipment.
Included mic
Phones
AC adapter (included)
Connect to an AC outlet
MIDI keyboard, tone generator module, rhythm machine etc.
MIDI IN
MIDI OUT
EM-1
TAP
1 2
5710 12
14161513119843
Powered monitors, etc.
Be sure to turn off the power of all devices before making connections. Failing
to take this precaution may cause your speaker system to be damaged, or may
cause malfunctions.
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Connections from the audio outputs
Connect the microKORG's OUTPUT L/MONO and R jacks to the input jacks of
your mixer or powered monitor system.
In order to take full advantage of the potential of the microKORG, we recommend
that you use stereo outputs.
If you are making monaural connections, use the L/MONO jack.
want to use an external sequencer, rhythm machine, or audio source as the carrier
of the vocoder, connect that device to AUDIO IN 2 (➝p.34).
If you want to process the waveform of a synthesizer or sampler, connect a mic or
the output jack of your external device to the AUDIO IN 1 and 2 jacks (➝p.21).
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Connections to MIDI equipment/computers
The keyboard, and controllers etc. of the microKORG can be used to control an
external MIDI tone generator. Conversely, another MIDI keyboard or sequencer can
control the tone generator of the microKORG to produce sound. (➝p.48)
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Connecting the included mic
A mic for use with the vocoder is included with the microKORG. Here's how to
attach the included mic to the microKORG.
Do not apply excessive force to the neck of the mic, or repeatedly bend it back
and forth any more than necessary. Doing so may cause malfunctions such as
breakage of the internal wiring.
Grasp the base of the included mic, align the protrusion of the mic with the slit
1
of the mic holder, and push it into the holder.
Do not use excessive force.
When removing the included mic, grasp it by the base and pull it out.
Turn the rear panel AUDIO IN VOLUME 1 knob
2
to the MIN position, and set the MIC/LINE switch
to the MIC position.
Connect the plug of the included mic to the
3
AUDIO IN 1 CONDENSER jack.
Protrusion
Neck
Mic base
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Connections to the audio inputs
If you want to use the microKORG as a vocoder, connect a mic or other audio
source to AUDIO IN 1, and use that audio source as the modulator (➝p.10). If you
Slit
5
Turning the power on
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1. The power supply
Before you connect the power supply, make sure that the power switch is turned off
(i.e., in the outward position).
Connecting the AC adaptor
Firmly insert the plug of the included AC adaptor into the jack. Then connect the
AC adaptor to an AC outlet.
Never use any AC adaptor other than the included one.
Inserting/exchanging batteries
The microKORG can also be operated on batteries.
Batteries are not included. You will need to purchase them
separately.
Make sure that the power switch on the microKORG is turned off.
1
Then open the battery cover located on the bottom of the case.
2
Insert six AA alkaline batteries.
Be careful to observe the correct polarity of the batteries.
3
Close the battery cover.
Low battery display “”
When the batteries run low, the display will indicate "," and the "." at the far
right will begin blinking. If you continue using the microKORG, the Protect setting
will be turned on automatically, and you will be unable to edit program or global
settings. We recommend that you install new batteries or switch to the AC adaptor
as soon as possible. If this state occurs while you are editing, and you want to save
your settings, connect the AC adaptor and execute the Write operation.
You can cancel the "
Batteries that have become unusable should be removed from the microKORG
as soon as possible. Leaving such batteries installed may cause malfunctions
(due to battery leakage, etc.). You should also remove the batteries if you will
not be using the microKORG for an extended period of time.
" display by pressing the SHIFT key.
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2. Turning the power on
Before you turn on the microKORG’s power, you should lower the level of your
monitor system or other connected output device.
1
Turn the microKORG's VOLUME knob all the way toward the left.
2
Press the power switch to turn on the power.
The display will indicate the program number.
3
Turn the microKORG's VOLUME knob toward the right to an appropriate
position.
4
Adjust the volume of your external output device.
21, 3
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3. Turning the power off
After saving any necessary data (such as a program you have edited) turn the
power off using the reverse order of the power-on procedure.
Never turn the power off while data is being saved (i.e., while Write is executing). Doing so may damage the internal data.
6
Quick Start
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Listening to the demo songs
The microKORG contains several demo songs.
Here's how to listen to the demo songs and hear the sounds of the microKORG.
Hold down the SHIFT key and press the ARPEGGIA TOR ON/OFF key .
1
The demo will begin playing. The SHIFT , OCTAVE SHIFT DOWN, UP , and
PROGRAM NUMBER key LEDs will light.
To switch the demo song during playback, press the OCTAVE SHIFT UP or
2
DOWN key.
You can also use the PROGRAM NUMBER 1 –8 keys to select a demo song.
When you press the SHIFT key , demo playback will stop.
3
The SHIFT , OCT AVE SHIFT DOWN and UP key will go dark, and the
microKORG will return to normal playing mode.
1, 31
Demo songs
22
7
Synth programs
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1. Selecting and playing a program
The microKORG contains 128 programs that you can select and play immediately.
Programs are arranged in Banks. Each bank contains two “Sides”, and each side
contains eight programs. To select different programs, use the front panel PROGRAM SELECT knob and PROGRAM NUMBER keys. As an example, here's how
to select program "b.26".
Press the BANK SIDE key to select "b" as the program side.
1
The BANK SIDE key will light when side B is selected, and will be dark when
side A is selected.
T urn the PROGRAM SELECT knob to the TECHNO/HOUSE position.
2
The display will indicate "2" as the program bank.
Press the 6 key to select the program number.
3
Notice that the SYNTH/VOCODER LED for the SYNTH position is lit.
The program will change at the moment you switch either the Side, Bank, or
Number.
Play the keyboard to hear the sound.
4
You can use the OCTAVE SHIFT UP or DOWN keys to shift the pitch range of
5
the keyboard. (➝p.9)
Program Side
12
Program Bank
Program Number
SYNTH/VOCODER
LED
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2. Modifying the sound
On the microKORG, you can modify the sound to add expression to your performance by turning the edit control knobs 1 –5 , by moving the PITCH or MOD
wheels, or by the way that you play the keyboard.
Try out various ways to modify the selected program.
Using the Performance Edit function to modify the sound
When both the upper and lower SYNTH/VOCODER LEDs are lit, the Performance
Edit function is active. In this state, the edit control knobs 1 –5 are automatically
assigned to control the parameters listed below. Turn these knobs to control the
sound in realtime.
When using Performance Edit, the display shows the program number.
Performance Edit will be cancelled if you turn the EDIT SELECT 1 or EDIT
SELECT 2 knob to select a differ ent section, or if you hold down the SHIFT key
and press the BANK SIDE key. To enable the Performance Edit function, press
the PROGRAM NUMBER key that is lit.
When Performance Edit is active, you can edit the sound in the following ways.
Knob 1: CUTOFF
Adjusts the cutoff frequency of the filter. This will affect the brightness of the
sound. Normally, turning the knob toward the left will darken the sound, and
turning it toward the right will brighten the sound.
TIMBRE SELECT
SYNTH/VOCODER LED
Edit control knobs 1–5
5
8
3
EDIT SELECT 2
PROGRAM NUMBER keys 1–8
Synth programs
C6–C9UP lit red
C5–C8UP lit orange
C4–C7UP lit green
Key operation
Press UP key
Key operation
Press
DOWN key
C3–C6dark
C2–C5DOWN lit green
C1–C4DOWN lit orange
C0–C3DOWN lit red
Keyboard range Key LED
Knob 2: RESONANCE
In the case of a LPF (Low Pass Filter)
Adjusts the resonance of the
filter. This adds a distinctive
character to the sound.
Knob 3: EG ATTACK
CutoffCutoffCutoffCutoff
Low resonance valueHigh resonance value
(FILTER EG + AMP EG ATTACK)
Adjusts the attack time of the filter EG and amp EG. This will affect the amount of
time from note-on (when you press a key) until the attack level is reached. Turning
this knob will adjust the speed at which the filter EG and amp EG will rise.
Normally, turning the knob toward the left will shorten the attack time, and turning
it toward the right will lengthen the attack time.
Knob 4: EG RELEASE (FILTER EG + AMP EG RELEASE)
Adjusts the release time of the filter EG and amp EG. This will affect the amount of
time from note-off (when you release
a key) until the sound disappears.
Turning this knob will adjust the
Cutoff
Level
+
[3]: Attack Time[4]: Release Time
a: Decay Timeb: Sustain Level
Note on
Note off
release time of the filter EG and amp
EG. Normally, turning the knob
toward the left will shorten the release
time, and turning it toward the right
will lengthen the release time.
Attack Level
0
[3]
b
a
[4]
Time
Knob 5: TEMPO
Adjusts the tempo of the arpeggiator, LFO, and DELAY (if "TEMPO SYNC" is ON).
Turning the knob toward the left will slow down the tempo, and turning it toward
the right will speed up the tempo. The ARPEGGIATOR TEMPO LED will blink at
the specified tempo.
If you have selected a Layer program that uses two timbres (one of the TIMBRE
SELECT LEDs is lit), you can choose which timbre will be affected by your
edits. Press the TIMBRE SELECT key to switch timbres. (➝p.14)
In the EDIT mode, the parameters that are assigned to each knob are also be edited
via the parameters of the section selected by the EDIT SELECT 1 and EDIT
SELECT 2 knobs. For details on each function, refer to p.24 for CUTOFF and
RESONANCE, p.26 and 28 for EG ATTACK and EG RELEASE, or p.44 for TEMPO.
A sound modified modify using Performance Edit can be written into memory
if desired. (➝p.58)
Using the PITCH and MOD wheels for control
PITCH wheel:
The effect will be applied when you move the wheel away from
or toward yourself. When the wheel is in the center position,
there will be no effect.
Normally this wheel is used as the pitch bender, so that the
pitch will rise when you move the wheel away, and fall when
0
0
you move the wheel toward yourself.
MOD wheel:
The effect will be applied when you move the wheel away from yourself, and will
not apply when you move the wheel toward yourself.
You can use this wheel to control the vibrato depth (➝p.17), or to adjust the tone by
controlling the cutoff frequency (➝p.30).
Since the PITCH and MOD wheels can be used as virtual patch sour ces, you
can use them to produce a variety of effects other than described above. (➝p.30)
Using the OCTAVE SHIFT UP and DOWN keys for control
You can use these keys to shift the
pitches assigned to the keyboard,
in one-octave units over a range of
+/-3 octaves. (➝p.8, 52)
Using the keyboard for control
Keyboard Tracking:
Keyboard tracking uses the position of the note on the keyboard to affect the sound.
Normally, this is used to brighten the sound as you play upward, or to create
differences in volume between high and low notes.
Velocity:
The strength with which you play the keyboard can affect the sound.
Normally, your playing strength will affect the tone and volume.
Since velocity and keyboard tracking can be used as a virtual patch source, you
can use them to produce a variety of effects other than those described above.
(➝p.30)
9
Vocoder programs
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1. Playing a vocoder program
Here's how to connect the included mic and play a vocoder program.
A vocoder applies the spectral character of an externally-input voice (the "modula-
tor") to an oscillator or other sound (the "carrier"), and outputs the result. In the
most popular use of a vocoder, you can speak or sing into a mic and play chords on
the keyboard, to create the impression that an instrument is speaking or singing.
Alternatively, you can create a variety of interesting effects by inputting audio
signals other than a human voice (such as
rhythm sounds).
1
2
3
4
5
10
On the rear panel, turn the AUDIO IN 1
VOLUME 1 knob to the MIN position, and
set the MIC/LINE switch to the MIC
position.
Connect the included mic to the AUDIO IN
1 CONDENSER jack.
If you use a mic other than the included
one, connect it to the appropriate jack.
Select a vocoder program.
Using the procedure described on page 8,
select program "A.84" for this example.
With the factory settings, the VOCODER bank contains vocoder programs.
Notice that the SYNTH/VOCODER LED VOCODER is lit.
Vocalize into the mic, and turn the VOLUME 1 knob towar d MAX without
allowing the AUDIO IN 1 LED to light red.
Raising the AMP "DIRECT LEVEL" value will cause the input sound to be
output directly, so raise the level if you want to hear the input sound while you
make adjustments. (➝p.37)
While vocalizing into the mic, play the keyboard.
Try pronouncing different words and changing the chords you play, and listen
to the vocoder effect.
If you cannot hear the effect, try adjusting the AMP "LEVEL" (knob 1 ) (➝p.37)
or MIXER "OSC 1 LEVEL" (knob 1 ) (➝p.34).
1 1, 4 2
Included mic
While vocalizing into the mic and using the keyboard to play vocoder sounds,
6
you can "freeze" the current tone of the vocoder by pressing the FORMANT
HOLD key. This allows you to continue to play the current vocoder sound, even
when you are not vocalizing. This tone will be remembered when you Write the
vocoder program to memory.
Several of the VOCODER bank programs will sound even if you simply play
the keyboard. These programs were written with FORMANT HOLD turned on.
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2. Modifying the sound
In the same way as for a synth program, you can modify the sound of a vocoder
program by turning the edit contr ol knobs 1 –5 , by moving the PITCH and MOD
wheels, and by the way that you play the keyboard. As described on the preceding
pages, try out various changes for the selected program.
The following Performance Edit operations work differently than for a synth
program.
Knob 1: CUTOFF, Knob 2: RESONANCE:
These control the carrier by adjusting the band pass filter cutoff frequency of the
carrier. See page 35.
Knob 3: EG ATTACK, Knob 4: EG RELEASE:
Only the amp EG can be controlled.
Also, a vocoder program does not allow you to switch timbres.
46
SYNTH/VOCODER
LED
3
Edit control knobs 1–5
Arpeggiator
TYPE: UP
LAST STEP: 8
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Using the arpeggiator
The arpeggiator is a function that automatically arpeggiates the notes of a chord
you play; i.e., sounds the notes one after the other. The microKORG's arpeggiator
provides six types of arpeggio pattern, and lets you adjust the duration (gate time)
of the notes that are sounded. The microKORG also provides a "step arpeggiator"
that lets you specify the on/off status of each note in the chord for as many as eight
steps, letting you create an even wider range of arpeggio patterns.
When you play the chord shown above on the keyboard,
the notes will be sounded as shown at the right. (TYPE: UP)
Select a program. (➝p.8)
1
You can use the arpeggiator with either a synth program or a vocoder program,
but let's select synth program b.58 for this explanation.
Press the ARPEGGIATOR ON/OFF key to make the key LED light.
2
Hold down a chord on the keyboard, and the arpeggiator will run.
3
Modifying the arpeggio
T urn the EDIT SELECT 2 knob to the ARPEG.A or ARPEG.B position.
4
T urn the edit contr ol 1 –5 knobs to adjust the arpeggiator parameters, changing
5
the way that the arpeggiator is sounded.
For example if you selected ARPEG.A in step 4, the parameters shown in the
lower left diagram (below) will be selected as the knob functions. Turning knob
1 will change the tempo of the arpeggio, and turning knob 3 will change the
duration of the arpeggiated notes. Turning knob 4 will switch the arpeggio
pattern, changing the order in which the notes are sounded (➝p.44). (For
details on each parameter, refer to the appropriate page.)
Refer to page 13 for a note regarding cases in which the value does not change.
Using the step arpeggiator to vary the arpeggio
If the EDIT SELECT 2 knob is turned to the ARPEG.A or ARPEG.B position,
6
the PROGRAM NUMBER 1 –5 keys will act as arpeggiator step keys, and will be
lit (the "on" state) for the number of valid steps.
When you press a step key to make the key LED blink (the "off" state), the note
of the corresponding step will change to a rest, and the resulting arpeggio will
change (see the diagram below). The Step Arpeggiator function lets you switch
each step of the arpeggio on/off in this way to modify the arpeggio that is
sounded.
To change the number of valid steps in the arpeggio, set the EDIT SELECT 2
knob to ARPEG.B and turn knob 4 . (➝p.45)
When you press the ARPEGGIATOR ON/OFF key (the key LED goes dark), the
7
arpeggio will stop playing.
2, 7
6
54, 6
11
Editing
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Basic editing
3
Basic editing procedure
All of the editable parameters are organized into "sections". Each section contains
up to five parameters, which are controlled using the edit control knobs 1 – 5. The
two knobs labelled EDIT SELECT 1 and EDIT SELECT 2 are used to select a
section. Notice the six columns of text under the five knobs. The first column
identifies the name of each section, and the following five columns show the
parameter assigned to each of the knobs above. The text to the left side indicates the
parameters used for a synth program. The text to the right side (in green) indicates
the parameters available for a vocoder program.
On the microKORG there are two basic ways for you to create a sound.
•Select the program that is closest to the sound you want to create, and edit that
program as necessary to change it as desired
•Start from an initialized program ("blank slate"), and create the sound from
scratch
Broadly speaking, the procedure is as follows.
Select the program that you want to start from. (➝p.8)
1
If you want to start from scratch, execute the Initialize operation. (➝p.59)
Turn the EDIT SELECT 1 or EDIT SELECT 2 knob to select the section that
2
includes the parameter you want to edit. (The SYNTH/VOCODER LED for the
side you are editing will light.)
Consider how the current program differs from the sound you have in mind,
and select the parameter that you want to edit.
If you are creating the sound from scratch, note that the
EDIT SELECT 1 and EDIT SELECT 2 knobs access
parameter sections in a logical order for creating the
sound. You can turn the dials in sequence to step through
these parameter sections in the appropriate order.
By holding down the SHIFT key and pressing the BANK
SIDE key, you can switch between EDIT SELECT 1 and
EDIT SELECT 2 as the section to edit.
4
4
5
6
Turn edit control knob 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 to edit the assigned parameters.
For example if you are editing a synth program and set the EDIT SELECT 1
knob to FILTER, the parameters shown below the diagram at the bottom of this
page will be selected as the function of the five edit control knobs. (The left
parameter of each pair is the synth program parameter, and the right parameter
– in green – is the vocoder program parameter.)
Turning knob 2 will change the cutoff frequency value, affecting the tone.
Turning knob 3 will change the resonance value, adding a distinctive character
to the tone. (➝p.24)
Go ahead and try editing the AMP EG parameters "ATTACK" and "DECAY"
(➝p.28), the PITCH parameter "PORTAMENTO" (➝p.17), or the MOD FX
(➝p.40) or DELAY (➝p.41) parameters to hear the result. (For details on each
parameter, refer to the appropriate page.)
If you want to make precise adjustments to a value, hold down the SHIFT key
and press the OCTAVE SHIFT UP or DOWN key (UP, DOWN, and SHIFT keys
will light). Now you can use the UP and DOWN octave keys to step through
the values for the selected parameter.
To cancel this function, press the lit SHIFT key.
If you press the UP and DOWN keys simultaneously, that parameter will return
to the value it had when you selected it.
Repeat steps 2–4 as necessary to create the desired sound.
Write the program into memory. (➝p.58)
SYNTH/VOCODER LED
234
ORIGINAL VALUEBANK SIDE
12
Basic editing
If you select another program or turn the power off before you write, your edits
will be lost.
If the parameter value does not change when you turn knobs 1–5
When you use EDIT SELECT 1 or EDIT SELECT 2 to select a section and turn
knobs 1–5 to edit the parameter values, the value in the display will sometimes
continue blinking, and the parameter value will not change.
This occurs when there is a discrepancy between the actual value of the
parameter being edited (the value that is blinking in the display) and the
position of the knob. If the actual value is significantly different from the
position of the knob, and the value changed immediately when you moved the
knob, the sound would change in a sudden and unnatural way.
To prevent this from happening, the knob and parameter will begin changing in
tandem only when the knob position corresponds to the actual value of the
edited parameter (the value in the display will stop blinking).
For example, suppose that you turn knob 1 to edit a parameter,
so that the knob is in the position shown at left.
Then you use the EDIT SELECT 1 knob to switch to a different
parameter section, and want to edit the parameter assigned to
knob 1. The actual value of this parameter is at the position of
the triangle in the diagram at left. (The actual value will blink
when you turn the knob slightly.) The parameter value will not
change until you turn the knob all the way to that position.
When the knob reaches the position of the actual value, the knob
and parameter value will begin changing in tandem, so that you
can edit the value. (When the knob reaches the actual value, the
value in the display will stop blinking.)
To return to the original parameter values of a program
The edit control ORIGINAL VALUE LED will light to indicate the parameter
values of a preset program or a program that you saved.
If you want to return parameters to their original values, turn knobs 1–5 so that
the ORIGINAL VALUE LED is lit.
If you select another program or re-select the same program while you are
editing, all parameters will return to the values of the preset program or the
previously-saved program.
In the same way as when editing a program, you can make settings for the
entire microKORG or MIDI-related settings by selecting the desired parameter
section and turning knobs 1–5 to make the settings (➝p.47, 51). Changes you
make to these settings will also be lost if you turn the power off, so you must
Write them if you want to keep your changes.
How to read the pages for each section (➝p.16–)
This indicates the position of
the EDIT SELECT 1/2 knob.
The EDIT SELECT 1/2 knob
selects the section that will be
edited. In this example, the
FILTER section is selected.
These are the edit control knobs
1—5. The markings printed
around each knob are the
values that will be selected
when you turn that knob. These
positions are approximate.
This area lists the parameters
that are edited by edit control
knobs 1—5 when the above
section is selected. The range of
values for each parameter is
given in square brackets [ ].
Explanations of each parameter
and its values are given below.
This is the name of the section.
When you have set the EDIT
SELECT 1 or 2 knob to the
FILTER position and would like
to see an explanation of the
parameters, refer to this page.
6. FILTER
— SYNTH
The filter removes unwanted frequency regions of the sound produced by the oscillator. It determines the tone by allowing only the desired
portion of the sound to pass. "TYPE" (knob 1) selects the type of filter (i.e., the way in which it will cut the frequency). "CUTOFF" (knob 2) sets
the frequency at which the cut will occur. Normally, turning this knob toward the right will brighten the sound, and turning it toward the left
will darken the sound. "RESONANCE" (knob 3) emphasizes the frequency region near the cutoff frequency, adding a distinctive character to
the sound. Other parameters in this section let you specify the depth of the modulation applied by the filter EG, and the way in which keyboard
tracking will affect the cutoff frequency.
TYPE [-24dB LPF, -12dB LPF,
-12dB BPF, -12dB HPF]
Selects the type of filter
24dB LPF ( ):
The -24 dB LPF (-24 dB/octave Low
Pass Filter) is the most common
type of filter; it passes the frequencies that are below the cutoff frequency, and cuts the frequencies
that are above (➝Figure 6-1). Lowering the cutoff frequency will
make the tone darker and more
mellow.
-12dB LPF ():
The -12 dB LPF (-12 dB/octave LowPass Filter) has a more gentle slopethan the -24 dB LPF, producing amore natural-sounding effect.(➝"-24 dB LPF")(➝Figure 6-1)
Figure 6-1
LPF (Low Pass Filter)
Cutoff
24
-12dB/oct
-24dB/oct
Frequency
CUTOFF[0...127]
Sets the cutoff frequency.
Increasing this value will raise the
cutoff frequency.
"CUTOFF" can be varied by
time-variant change produced
by Filter EG, by keyboard playing dynamics (velocity), and by
note location (keyboard tracking).
If the "CUTOFF" value is lowered, the volume may be extremely low, or you may hear nosound at all.
The effect of resonance
LPF
HPF
BPF
Low resonance value
RESONANCE[0...127]
Sets the resonance of the filter.
This will emphasize the overtones
near the cutoff frequency specified
by "Cutoff," adding a distinctive
character to the sound. Increasing
Figure 6-4
this value will increase the effect.
(➝Figure 6-4)
Since movement of the "CUTOFF"
knob will affect the overtones that
are boosted by resonance, it is best
to adjust "CUTOFF" and "RESONANCE" in conjunction with each
other.
High resonance value
This section applies to
synth programs.
A summary of this section
is given here.
FILTER EG INT[-63...63]
This specifies how time-variant
modulation from the Filter EG will
be applied to the cutoff frequency
(➝Figure 6-5). The cutoff frequency
will change over time according to
the Filter EG settings, modifying
the tone. For example, you can use
this to create a sound that gradually begins to brighten when you
press the key, and then gradually
becomes darker.
This INT (Intensity) parameter
specifies the depth (sensitivity) towhich the Filter EG will affect thecutoff frequency.With a setting of 0, the Filter EG willnot affect the cutoff frequency. In-creasingly positive (+) settings willallow the Filter EG to have a corre-spondingly greater effect on thecutoff frequency. (➝Figure 6-6)Increasingly negative (-) settingswill allow a correspondinglygreater effect in the opposite direc-tion. (➝Figure 6-7)
FILTER KEY TRACK [-63...63]
This specifies how keyboard tracking (the keyboard location that you
play) will affect the cutoff frequency.
For example if the sound played by
the C4 key has the desired tone but
higher notes no longer have resonance or are too mellow-sounding,
you can adjust keyboard tracking to
make compensations so that the
cutoff frequency will rise for higher
notes.
With positive (+) settings, the cut-off frequency will rise as you playupward from the C4 note, and fallas you play downward. With nega-tive (-) settings, the cutoff frequencywill fall as you play upward fromthe C4 note, and rise as you playdownward.
With a setting of +48, the changein cutoff frequency will be pro-portionate to the change inpitch. With a setting of 0, key-board tracking will not affect thecutoff frequency.
13
Basic editing
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Editing each timbre
Synth programs can have up to two timbres.
A timbre consists of the parameters of EDIT SELECT 1 VOICE (except for
"SYNTH/VOCODER" and "SINGLE/LAYER") through LFO2 sections, and the
parameters of EDIT SELECT 2 PATCH 1–4 sections.
The VOICE section parameters "SYNTH/VOCODER" and "SINGLE/LAYER"
apply to the entire program.
Using both timbres (Layer)
❍
Set the EDIT SELECT 1 knob to VOICE, and turn knob 2 to select
LAYER (
Selecting the timbre to edit
If you are editing a program that uses both timbres, here's how to select the timbre
to edit.
❍ Press the EDIT SELECT TIMBRE SELECT key to select the timbre that you
want to edit. (The corresponding TIMBRE SELECT LED will light.)
Your editing will affect the selected timbre.
You can also edit both timbres simultaneously (Edit Sync).
1
Press and hold the TIMBRE SELECT key for at least two seconds.
Both TIMBRE SELECT LEDs will light, and editing will be synchronized for the
two timbres. The display will indicate the value for timbre 1. The value of
timbre 1 will also be used as the value at which editing begins.
2
To cancel edit sync, press the TIMBRE SELECT key.
Edit sync will be cancelled, and timbre 1 will be the object of
editing.
You can use the Solo function even while editing is
synchronized.
The state of the edit sync function is not saved.
).
Listening to only one timbre (Solo)
For a program that uses both timbres, you can use the Solo function to hear just one
timbre. This is convenient when you want to hear just one timbre while you edit.
1
Hold down the SHIFT key and press the TIMBRE SELECT key.
The TIMBRE SELECT LED for the timbre selected for editing will start blinking,
and only that timbre will sound.
If you want to hear only the other timbre, once again hold down the SHIFT key
2
and press the TIMBRE SELECT key.
The TIMBRE SELECT LED for the other timbre will start blinking, and only that
timbre will sound. The timbre selected for editing will also change at this time.
3
To cancel the Solo function, press the TIMBRE SELECT key.
The Solo state cannot be memorized.
Exchanging and copying the settings of the timbres
(SHIFT function)
You can exchange the settings of the two timbres, or copy the timbre settings from
another program. (➝p.59)
SHIFT TIMBRE SELECT
14
Editing a synth program
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Overview
The structure of a synth program
As shown in figure 0-1, a synth program consists of timbres 1/2, effects, and the
arpeggiator.
The three attributes of sound: pitch, tone, and volume
Sound has three basic attributes; pitch, tone, and volume.
To control these attributes, the microKORG analog modeling synthesizer provides
"oscillator," "filter," and "amp (amplifier)" sections, just as on the analog synthesizers of the past.
The "oscillator" settings vary the pitch, the "filter" settings modify the tone, and the
"amp" settings modify the volume.
The microKORG's "oscillator," "filter," and "amp"
On the microKORG, the OSC1, OSC2, and PITCH sections control the "oscillator".
The PITCH section specifies the pitch of the waveform that is the basis of the
sound, and the OSC1 and OSC2 sections select the waveforms. The waveforms
generated here are mixed by the MIXER section.
The microKORG's FILTER section modifies the tone. Then the AMP section
modifies the volume and outputs the final sound.
These three sections determine the basic sound of the program.
TIMBRE 1/2
Each timbre consists of OSC, FILTER, AMP, EG, LFO, and Virtual Patch blocks. You
can create more complex programs by using two timbres together in one program
using the Layer feature.
EFFECTS
The output of timbres 1/2 is sent to the modulation effect (MOD FX) ➝ delay effect
(DELAY) ➝ equalizer (EQ).
For the modulation effect you can choose from three types of effect such as chorus.
For the delay, you can choose from three types of delay such as stereo delay. The EQ
is a two-band equalizer.
ARPEGGIATOR
You can apply the arpeggiator to a timbre. If the program uses two timbres, you can
apply the arpeggiator to either or both timbres. This is a step arpeggiator with six
arpeggio types.
In addition to the sections described above, the microKORG provides ways in
which the sound can be varied according to time, key range, or various types of
performance expression. These are controlled by modulators and controllers such
as EG (envelope generator), LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator), keyboard tracking,
Virtual Patch, and the PITCH and MOD wheels. You can use these modulators and
controllers to apply change to the basic sound of the program.
Figure 0-1 (at right) shows the structure of a synthesizer sound on the microKORG.
Look at TIMBRE 1, and notice how the signal flows in the order of OSC ➝ FILTER
➝ AMP. Also notice how modulators such as EG and LFO can affect these blocks.
(in the case of Layer)
Free Assign
KBD Track
Velocity
Mod. wheel
Pitch bend
15
1.VOICE — SYNTH/VOCODER
These settings determine the basic character of the program, and how it will sound.
"SYNTH/VOCODER" (knob 1) specifies whether the program will be a synth program or a vocoder program. If you want this to be a synth
program, select Synthesizer (
program. Other parameters in this section specify whether the program will sound monophonically/polyphonically/unison, and how the
notes will be triggered.
If you simultaneously press more keys than the specified number of voices, the last-pressed key will take priority.
). "SINGLE/LAYER" (knob 2) specifies whether both timbres will be used (Layer) in the case of a synth
SYNTH/VOCODER
[Synthesizer, Vocoder]
Switches the currently selected program between a Synthesizer program and a Vocoder program.
Synthesizer ():
The program will be a synth program. You can use two oscillators
SINGLE/LAYER[Single, Layer]
Specifies how many timbres the
program will use. This cannot be
selected for a vocoder program.
Single ():
Only one timbre will be used.
Figure 1-1
to create the sound.
Vocoder ():
The program will be a vocoder program. You can use sound input
from a connected mic to produce
"talking" instrument effects.
The parameters for editing will
vary depending on whether
Synthesizer or Vocoder is se-
Layer ():
Two timbres will be used. When
you play the keyboard, both timbres will sound simultaneously.
Y ou can edit each timbre individually .
Figure 1-2
lected here.
VOICE ASSIGN
Specifies how the timbre will be
sounded.
Mono ():
The timbre will sound monophonically. The program will play only
Timbre1
one note at a time.
Poly ():
The program will sound polyphonically, allowing you to play chords.
The maximum polyphony is four
voices.
Unison ():
All four voices will sound in unison at the same pitch. Use "UNISON DETUNE" to specify the pitch
Timbre2
Timbre1
difference in steps of one cent.
The maximum polyphony is four
voices (four notes). In the case of
a Layer program, these four
voices are divided between timbres 1 and 2, so only two keys can
be played in a layered program.
Specifies whether the EG and LFO
will be retriggered when you play
the next key while still holding
down the previous key.
You can edit this if "VOICE ASSIGN" is Mono or Unison.
Single ():
The EG and LFO will not be
UNISON DETUNE[0...99]
Specifies the amount of detuning
(in steps of one cent) between the
notes sounded by Unison mode.
You can edit this if "VOICE ASSIGN" is set to Unison.
The detuning method will depend
on the number of unison voices.
Figure 1-4
retriggered by the second or subsequent key. Use this setting if you
want to play legato.
Multi ():
The EG and LFO will be retriggered
each time you press a key.
Figure 1-3
Note on
Single
Multi
Note on
EG
Trigger
EG
Trigger
2 voice
4 voice
99
0
99
0
Unison
Detune
Unison
Detune
16
2.PITCH — SYNTH/VOCODER
These settings specify the pitch of the oscillator.
Use "TRANSPOSE" (knob 1) and "TUNE" (knob 2) to set the desired pitch. These settings are shared by oscillators 1 and 2. In this section you
can also set the portamento time, and specify how the PITCH and MOD wheels will affect the pitch.
TRANSPOSE[-24...24]
Adjusts the pitch of the oscillator in
semitone (100 cent) steps.
The range is two octaves upward or
downward.
Changes made by the front
panel OCTAVE SHIFT buttons
actually shift the pitches assigned to the keyboard (or keys)
in one-octave steps, and do not
affect the pitch of the oscillator
that is sounding. Nor are such
settings saved by the Write operation. If you wish to change
the pitch of the oscillator itself,
you must use this "TRANSPOSE" setting to specify the
pitch.
TUNE[-50...50]
Adjusts the pitch of the oscillator in
one-cent steps.
PORTAMENTO[0...127]
Specifies the speed of the
portamento effect (a smooth change
in pitch from one note to the next
note of a different pitch).
With a setting of 0, there will be no
portamento effect. Increasing this
value will cause the pitch change to
occur over a longer time.
If "VOICE ASSIGN" is set to
Mono or Unison, and if "Trigger"
is set to Single, portamento will
not apply to the first-sounded
note.
BEND RANGE[-12...12]
Specifies the amount of pitch
change in semitones that will occur
when the pitch wheel is operated.
This value specifies the amount of
change that will occur when you
move the pitch wheel all the way
to the away from you.
VIBRATO INT[-63...63]
Specifies the depth of vibrato that
will be applied when you move the
MOD (modulation) wheel all the
way away from yourself.
The LFO2 modulates the pitch of
the oscillator, raising and lowering it to create vibrato.
17
3.OSC1 (Oscillator 1)— SYNTH/VOCODER
The oscillator generates the waveform that is the basis of the sound.
The timbre has two oscillators. The settings in this section are for oscillator 1. "WAVE" (knob 1) selects the basic waveform for oscillator 1,
and "CONTROL 1" (knob 2) and "CONTROL 2" (knob 3) modify the waveform. For example if you set "WAVE" to Saw (
"CONTROL 1" value will modify the sound, changing the waveform as shown in figure 3-1. Adjusting "CONTROL 2" will apply LFO1
modulation to the waveform specified by "CONTROL 1," producing additional change.
This is a sawtooth wave. This waveform is shaped like the tooth of a
saw, and contains a rich overtone
spectrum.
You can use this to create numerous instrumental sounds such as
string and brass sounds, or typical
analog synth sounds such as synth
bass or synth brass.
Square Wave ():
This is a square wave. It has a rectangular shape, and strictly speaking is
actually square only when the top and
bottom of the waveform have the same
width (a "pulse width" of 50%). If the
pulse width is other than 50%, this is
also called a pulse wave.
A square wave is used for woodwind
sounds such as clarinet, and for
wooden percussion sounds. A pulse
wave is used for plucked-string
sounds and reed-type sounds.
18
CONTROL 1[0...127/– – –]
Adjusts a parameter specific to the
selected waveform.
CONTROL 2[0...127/1...64]
Adjusts a parameter specific to the
selected waveform.
CONTROL 1 has no effect if
"WAVE" is set to DWGS.
CONTROL 1[0...127]:
Adjusting this value will modify the
waveform.
A setting of 0 will produce a conventional sawtooth wave, and a setting of 127 will produce a sawtooth
wave one octave higher.
(➝Figure 3-1)
CONTROL 2[0...127]:
LFO1 is used to apply modulation
to the waveform specified by
"CONTROL 1." The "CONTROL 2"
setting specifies the depth of the
modulation produced by LFO1.
For example by setting LFO1
"WAVE" to Triangle (
justing the LFO speed, you can pro-
duce a detune-like effect.
CONTROL 1[0...127]:
Adjusts the pulse width. A setting
of 0 produces a pulse width of 50%
(square wave), and a setting of 127
produces a pulse width of 0% (there
will be no sound). The sound will
become "harder" as you adjust this
parameter toward 0%.
(➝Figure 3-2)
CONTROL 2[0...127]:
LFO1 is used to apply PWM (pulse
width modulation)*
width specified by "CONTROL 1."
The "CONTROL 2" setting specifies
the depth of the modulation pro-
duced by LFO1. For example by
setting LFO1 "WAVE" to Triangle
(
speed, you can add depth to the
sound.
) and ad-
3-1
to the pulse
) and adjusting the LFO
Figure 3-1
0
63
Figure 3-2
063127
127
*3-1: PWM
Pulse Width Modulation refers to the
use of a separate signal to vary the
pulse width over time. On the
microKORG, you can use PWM to
modify the tone via LFO1, or via Virtual Patch from modulation sources
LFO2, Filter EG, or Amp EG.
063127
3.OSC1 (Oscillator 1)— SYNTH/VOCODER
WAVE
Triangle Wave ():
This is a triangle wave, which has
weaker overtones and a stronger
fundamental than a sawtooth wave
or square wave. It is suitable for
mellow bass sounds.
CONTROL 1CONTROL 2
CONTROL 1[0...127]:
You can modify the waveform by
adjusting this value.
A setting of 0 will produce a triangle
wave, and a setting of 127 will produce a waveform with a pitch that
is one octave and a fifth higher.
(➝Figure 3-3)
Sine Wave ():
This is a sine wave. This waveform
contains only the fundamental, and
no overtones at all. It can be used
to create claves or bass drum
CONTROL 1[0...127]:
On a synth program, this adjusts the
depth of cross modulation.
On a vocoder program, this modifies the waveform.
sounds. In some synth programs,
oscillator 2 is used to perform cross
modulation*
3-2
(➝Figure 3-4), creat-
ing a more complex overtone structure.
Cross modulation by a sine wave
cannot be applied to a vocoder program.
Since a sine wave contains no
overtones, the filter will not
modify its tone.
Vox Wave ():
This simulates a waveform similar
to human vocal cords. Even if the
CONTROL 1[0...127]:
Adjusting this value will modify the
waveform. (➝Figure 3-5)
oscillator pitch is changed, the frequency spectrum will be maintained, which makes this effective
when used for vocal-type sounds or
as a vocoder oscillator.
Select HPF or BPF as the filter, and
adjust "Cutoff" to create a vocaltype sound.
CONTROL 2[0...127]:
Figure 3-3
LFO1 is used to apply wave form
modulation to the waveform speci-
fied by "CONTROL 1." The "CON-
TROL 2" setting specifies the depth
of the modulation produced by
LFO1.
CONTROL 2[0...127]:
On a synth program, this adjusts the
depth of additional modulation
applied by LFO1 to the cross modu-
lation specified by "CONTROL 1."
Figure 3-4
OSC2
OSC1
On a vocoder program, this adjusts
the depth of modulation applied by
LFO1 to the waveform that you se-
lected by "CONTROL 1."
CONTROL 2[0...127]:
Figure 3-5
LFO1 is used to apply modulation
to the waveform specified by
"CONTROL 1." CONTROL 2 sets
the depth of the modulation ap-
plied by LFO1.
X-mod Depth + X-mod Depth Mod
OSC1 Output
063127
*3-2: Cross Modulation
This is a type of oscillator modulation available on analog synthesizers
of the past. Normally, a low-frequency signal (such as from an LFO)
is used as the modulation source for
an oscillator, but Cross Modulation
lets you use another oscillator as the
modulation source, creating sounds
with a complex overtone structure
that would not normally be produced
otherwise. On the microKORG, you
can use oscillator 2 to apply cross
modulation if a sine wave is selected
for oscillator 1. Gradually raise the
"CONTROL 1" level, and notice how
the sound changes. This can produce
distorted sounds, or sounds with a
metallic character.
Y ou can produce an even wider variety of effects by adjusting the OSC2
"SEMITONE" or "TUNE" parameters.
You can also achieve inter esting results by applying sync modulation
and cross modulation at the same
time.
This is waveform data created by
harmonic additive synthesis.
Choose this when you want to create sounds with a distinctive "digital-synth" character, such as synth
bass, electric piano, bell, or horn. 64
types of waveform are provided.
Noise ():
This generates white noise. Within
the oscillator, a LPF (Low Pass Filter) is provided to process the noise.
(➝Figure 3-6). You can use this to
create percussion sounds, or sound
effects such as surf. This can also be
used in conjunction with another
timbre to simulate the "breath" component of a wind instrument sound.
20
CONTROL 1[– – –]:
:
– – –
CONTROL 1[0...127]:
This sets the cutoff frequency of the
LPF.
Adjusting this will affect the noise
waveform.
Figure 3-6
Resonance
Noise
Genarator
LPF
Cutoff
CONTROL 2[1...64]:
Selects the DWGS waveform.
(➝Table 3-1)
DWGS waveform data was first
used in the Korg DW-6000
(which went on sale in 1984),
and has continued to be developed since that time.
CONTROL 2[0...127]:
This controls the resonance of the
LPF.
If you raise this enough to produce
an identifiable pitch, the cutoff frequency will move according to the
keyboard location you play , and the
change will be heard as a pitch.
If you want the oscillation produced by resonance to match the
reference pitch, set "CONTROL
1" to 24.
Table 3-1
DWGS List
*: The 35 Endless waveform simulates an endless
scale, in which notes one octave apart have the identical pitch. You can play an ascending or descending scale as far as you wish, producing the sensation that a scale of the same pitch is continuing infinitely.
MIDI IN
MIDI OUT
LINE OUT
tone generator module, rhythm machine,
or audio device
EM-1
TAP
1 2
5710 12
14161513119843
3.OSC1 (Oscillator 1)— SYNTH/VOCODER
WAVECONTROL 1CONTROL 2
Audio In ():
The waveform of the audio signal
input from the AUDIO IN 1 or 2
jacks will be used instead of an oscillator.
This lets you apply filtering to a
drum phrase, or synthesize a vocal
or guitar sound together with oscillator 2.
The parameters of the PITCH
section have no effect on the
CONTROL 1[0...127]:
This adjusts the volume balance
between AUDIO IN 1 and AUDIO
IN 2. With a setting of 127 only AUDIO IN 1 will be output. With a setting of 0, only AUDIO IN 2 will be
output.
CONTROL 2[0...127]:
LFO1 is used to apply modulation
to the volume balance between
AUDIO IN 1 and AUDIO IN 2 that
you set by "CONTROL 1." The
"CONTROL 2" setting sets the
depth of this modulation produced
by LFO1.
This lets you create effects in which
the AUDIO IN 1 and 2 inputs are
alternated.
waveform that is input from the
AUDIO IN 1 or 2 jacks.
Processing an external input audio signal
You can use the filter, amp, EG, and LFO etc. to process the signal from a external
synthesizer, rhythm machine, or audio device in the same way as an oscillator waveform.
Before you connect an external device, turn off the power of the microKORG and of
any external output devices and power amps.
1
Turn the rear panel AUDIO IN 2 VOLUME 2 knob to the MIN position.
2
Connect the output jack of your external device to the AUDIO IN 2 LINE jack.
3
After making connections, turn the power on in the order of your external device, the
microKORG, and finally your powered monitor speaker system.
4
Select a program to initialize, and initialize it.
For this example, select any synth program, and initialize the program as described
on page 59.
5
Turn the EDIT SELECT 1 knob to the OSC 1 position, and turn knob 1 ("WAVE") to
select "" (Audio In).
6
Input an audio signal from your external device, and turn the VOLUME 2 knob
toward MAX as far as possible without allowing the AUDIO IN 2 LED to light red.
7
While inputting an audio signal, play the keyboard.
8
As described in "Basic editing procedure" (➝p.12), edit the FILTER, AMP, EG, LFO,
and effects to modify the sound.
The PITCH-related parameters have no effect on the sound from the AUDIO IN jacks.
In this example, you could connect the microKORG's MIDI OUT to the MIDI IN of
your external MIDI device and set the MIDI channels to match, so that your sound
module or other external MIDI device will produce sound when you play the
keyboard of the microKORG (➝p.49). You can use the micr oKORG's keyboard to play
the sounds of your external device, and use the EDIT SELECT 1/2 knobs and the edit
control knobs 1–5 to modify the sound.
You can use an external input as the carrier of the vocoder. (➝p.34)
21
4. OSC2 (Oscillator 2)— SYNTH
Here you can make settings for oscillator 2.
You can create a variety of sounds by using two oscillators together. For example you can adjust "SEMITONE" (knob 3) and "TUNE (knob 4)
so that one oscillator acts as though it were part of the overtone structure of the other oscillator, set the pitches of the two oscillators to an
interval of harmony, or set both oscillators to the same pitch but slightly detune one of them to create a detuning effect.
You can also use Ring Modulation and Oscillator Sync to create very complex overtone structures. (This is set by "OSC MOD" (knob 2).)
WAVE[Saw, Square, Triangle]
Selects the waveform for oscillator
2.
Saw Wave ():
A sawtooth wave. (➝p.18)
Square Wave ():
A square wave. (➝p.18)
Triangle Wave ():
A triangle wave. (➝p.19)
If you do not hear the sound of
oscillator 2, raise the MIXER
"OSC2 LEVEL" (knob 2). If you
want to hear only the sound of
oscillator 2, lower the MIXER
"OSC 1 LEVEL" (knob 1).
22
OSC MOD
[OFF, Ring, Sync, RingSync]
Selects the type of oscillator modulation that will be produced in conjunction with oscillator 1.
SEMITONE[-24...24]
Specifies the detuning (pitch difference) relative to oscillator 1, in
semitone steps over a range of 2
octaves upward or downward.
OFF ():
The sound will be output without
applying oscillator modulation.
You can adjust "SEMITONE" and
"TUNE" to produce harmony,
detune, or harmonic-component
effects.
Ring ():
Ring modulation *
plied. (➝Figure 4-1)
4-1
will be ap-
Figure 4-1
OSC2 Wave
By adjusting "SEMITONE" and
"TUNE" you can create metallic
OSC1 Wave
sounds with little sense of pitch.
This is effective for sound effects.
Sync ():
Oscillator sync *
4-2
will be applied.
This is useful for creating synth-
Figure 4-2
OSC2 Wave
OSC1 Wave
lead sounds. (➝Figure 4-2)
RingSync ():
This simultaneously applies Ring
Figure 4-3
OSC2 Wave
and Sync modulation. (➝Figure 4-3)
OSC1 Wave
If you want to use the sound of
oscillator 2 as a component in
the oscillator 1 overtone structure, try setting it one octave or
a fifth higher than oscillator 1. If
you want to use oscillator 2 in
harmony, you can try intervals
such as a third, fourth, or fifth.
OSC2 Output
OSC1 Output
OSC2 Output
Sync
Sync
OSC1 Output
OSC2 Output
OSC1 Output
TUNE[-63...63]
Specifies the amount of detune for
OSC2 relative to OSC1.
A setting of ±63 produces a pitch
difference of ±2 octaves, and ±48
produces a pitch difference of ±1
octave. A value near 0 will make
fine adjustments in the pitch.
If "OSC MOD" is set to Sync,
adjustments in "Semitone" or
"Tune" will change the pitch of
the overtones. The pitch of the
fundamental will not change.
*4-1: Ring Modulation:
This modulation generates a sum and
difference of the oscillator 1 and 2
waveforms.
For example you can select a square
wave for the oscillator, set "TRANSPOSE" to 0, "SEMITONE" to 24, and
adjust "TUNE" to produce a clear
bell-like sound. The effect will be
easier to detect if you lower "OSC 1
LEVEL" and raise "OSC 2 LEVEL."
Y ou can also create interesting effects
by using Virtual Patch to modulate
OSC 2 TUNE from LFO or EG.
*4-2: Oscillator Sync:
This modulation forcibly synchronizes the phase of oscillator 2 to the
phase of oscillator 1.
For example, select sawtooth wave
for oscillator 1 and raise the "OSC 2
LEVEL." Then, edit "SEMITONE" and
"TUNE" to change the pitch, and notice the result. The effect will be more
noticeable if the oscillator 2 pitch is
raised above the oscillator 1 pitch.
You can also produce interesting effects by using Virtual Patch to modulate OSC 2 Tune from LFO or EG.
5.MIXER — SYNTH
These parameters adjust the volume balance of the oscillator 1 and 2, and the noise generator.
"OSC 1 LEVEL" (knob 1) sets the output level of oscillator 1, "OSC 2 LEVEL" (knob 2) sets the output level of oscillator 2, and "NOISE
LEVEL" (knob 3) sets the output level of the noise generator.
These settings will be the input level to the filter.
OSC 1 LEVEL[0...127]
Sets the output level of oscillator 1.
OSC 2 LEVEL[0...127]
Sets the output level of oscillator 2.
NOISE LEVEL[0...127]
Sets the output level of the noise
generator.
This noise generator generates
white noise. This is independent of
the white noise that can be selected
as a waveform for oscillator 1. This
does not have filter or resonance (as
the oscillator 1 noise generator, but
you can use the FILTER section to
create the same results as the noise
waveform of oscillator 1.
Noise is used to create percussion
instrument sounds, or sound effects
such as surf.
23
6.FILTER — SYNTH
The filter controls the tonal character of the sound produced by the oscillator. It determines the tone by allowing only the desired portion of
the sound to pass. "TYPE" (knob 1) selects the type of filter (i.e., the way in which it will cut the frequency). "CUTOFF" (knob 2) sets the
frequency at which the cut will occur. Normally, turning this knob toward the right will brighten the sound, and turning it toward the left
will darken the sound. "RESONANCE" (knob 3) emphasizes the frequency region near the cutoff frequency, adding a distinctive character to
the sound. Other parameters in this section let you specify the depth of the modulation applied by the filter EG, and the way in which
keyboard tracking will affect the cutoff frequency.
TYPE[-24dB LPF, -12dB LPF,
-12dB BPF, -12dB HPF]
Selects the type of filter
-24dB LPF ():
The -24 dB LPF (-24 dB/octave Low
Pass Filter) is the most common
type of filter; it passes the frequencies that are below the cutoff frequency, and cuts the frequencies
that are above (➝Figure 6-1). Lowering the cutoff frequency will
make the tone darker and more
mellow.
-12dB LPF ():
The -12 dB LPF (-12 dB/octave Low
Pass Filter) has a more gentle slope
than the -24 dB LPF, producing a
more natural-sounding effect.
(➝"-24 dB LPF")(➝Figure 6-1)
Figure 6-1
LPF (Low Pass Filter)
-12dB/oct
-24dB/oct
Frequency
Cutoff
24
CUTOFF[0...127]
Sets the cutoff frequency.
Increasing this value will raise the
cutoff frequency.
"CUTOFF" can be varied by
time-variant change produced
by Filter EG, by keyboard playing dynamics (velocity), and by
note location (keyboard tracking).
If the "CUTOFF" value is set too
low, the volume may be extremely low , or you may hear no
sound at all.
Figure 6-4
The effect of resonance
LPF
HPF
BPF
Low resonance value
RESONANCE[0...127]
Sets the resonance of the filter.
This will emphasize the overtones
near the cutoff frequency specified
by "CUTOFF," adding a distinctive
character to the sound. Increasing
this value will increase the effect.
(➝Figure 6-4)
Since movement of the "CUTOFF"
knob will affect the overtones that
are boosted by resonance, it is best
to adjust "CUTOFF" and "RESONANCE" in conjunction with each
other.
FILTER EG INT[-63...63]
This specifies how time-variant
modulation from the Filter EG will
be applied to the cutoff frequency
(➝Figure 6-5). The cutoff frequency
will change over time according to
the Filter EG settings, modifying
the tone. For example, you can use
this to create a sound that gradually begins to brighten when you
press the key, and then gradually
becomes darker.
This INT (Intensity) parameter
specifies the depth (sensitivity) to
which the Filter EG will affect the
cutoff frequency.
With a setting of 0, the Filter EG will
not affect the cutoff frequency. Increasingly positive (+) settings will
allow the Filter EG to have a correspondingly greater effect on the
cutoff frequency. (➝Figure 6-6)
Increasingly negative (-) settings
will allow a correspondingly
greater effect in the opposite direction. (➝Figure 6-7)
High resonance value
FILTER KEY TRACK[-63...63]
This specifies how keyboard tracking (the keyboard location that you
play) will affect the cutoff frequency.
For example if the sound played by
the C4 key has the desired tone but
higher notes no longer have resonance or are too mellow-sounding,
you can adjust keyboard tracking to
make compensations so that the
cutoff frequency will rise for higher
notes.
With positive (+) settings, the cutoff frequency will rise as you play
upward from the C4 note, and fall
as you play downward. With negative (-) settings, the cutoff frequency
will fall as you play upward from
the C4 note, and rise as you play
downward.
With a setting of +48, the change
in cutoff frequency will be proportionate to the change in
pitch. With a setting of 0, keyboard tracking will not affect the
cutoff frequency.
Note on
Note off
Note on
Note off
Cutoff
Int=+32
Int=0
Int=+63
Time
Cutoff frequency
specified by
“Cutoff”
6.FILTER — SYNTH
TYPE
-12dB BPF ():
-12dB/oct BPF (Band Pass Filter)
allows a frequency band in the region of the cutoff frequency to pass,
and cuts the remaining frequencies.
It is used when you wish to emphasize only a specific portion of the
Figure 6-2
BPF (Band Pass Filter)
frequency range.(➝Figure 6-2)
Use this when you want to emphasize just a specific region of the
sound. For example, you can use
this to create a bandwidth-limited
sound similar to sound heard from
a small radio or a telephone.
-12dB HPF ():
-12dB/oct HPF (High Pass Filter)
allows frequencies above the cutoff
frequency to pass, and cuts the
lower frequencies. Use this when
you wish to make the sound thinner. However if the cutoff fr equency
Figure 6-3
HPF (High Pass Filter)
is raised excessively, the volume
will decrease significantly. (➝Figure 6-3)
For example you can use the HPF
to purposely attenuate the low-frequency region of a sound that will
be played together with other lowfrequency instruments, in order to
differentiate that sound from the
other instruments.
Cutoff
Frequency
Frequency
Cutoff
Filter oscillation
If you raise the resonance to a high value, it will oscillate (produce a
sound) at the frequency specified by the cutoff frequency. You can use
filter oscillation ("self-oscillation") as a sound source. If the filter is
oscillating, the "CUTOFF" parameter that normally adjusts the tone will
instead control the pitch of the oscillation. This can be used in a variety of
ways. Whistling is a typical example, and can be produced by adjusting
the ADSR parameters of the filter EG. You can also try setting "FILTER EG
INT" to a negative value. Another possibility is to select the MOD wheel
or LFO 1/2 as a source in Virtual Patch, and use it to control "CUTOFF" as
a destination.
Figure 6-5
Figure 6-6
Figure 6-7
Cutoff frequency
specified by
“Cutoff”
FILTER KEY TRACK
Note on
Cutoff
Attack
Time
Cutoff
Int=–32
Note on
Keyboard Track operates according to the pitch that is controlled by pitch bend, and transpose. It is not affected by pitch
changes produced by vibrato or
Virtual Patch.
Note off
Sustain Level
Note on
Release Time
Int=–63
Note off
Time
Int=0
Time
Decay
Time
Note off
25
7.FILTER EG — SYNTH
Here you can make settings for the filter EG, which applies time-variant change to the tone (➝Figure 7-1). Make these settings to specify the
"shape" of the EG, and use the FILTER parameter "FILTER EG INT" to specify the amount of effect that the EG will have (➝p.24). By making
FILTER EG settings, you can make the tone change as time passes. Create the desired tonal curve by adjusting the ADSR parameters;
ATTACK (knob 1), DECAY (knob 2), SUSTAIN (knob 3), RELEASE (knob 4).
For details on how an EG (Envelope Generator) works, refer to AMP EG (➝p.28).
You can use the FILTER EG as a Virtual Patch source modulate a parameter other than the filter cutoff frequency. (➝p.30)
ATTACK[0...127]
Specifies the time from note-on
(when the key is pressed) until the
attack level (maximum value of the
DECAY[0...127]
Specifies the time from when the attack level is reached until the sustain level (SUSTAIN) is reached.
envelope) is reached.
Figure 7-1
Cutoff
Note off
[3]
Attack Level
Note on
0
[2]
[1]
[1]: Attack Time[3]: Sustain Level
[2]: Decay Time[4]: Release Time
[4]
Time
SUSTAIN[0...127]
Specifies the cutoff frequency that
will be maintained after the decay
time has elapsed, until you release
the key.
RELEASE[0...127]
Specifies the time from note-off
(when the key is released) until the
level reaches 0.
EG RESET[OFF, ON]
Specifies whether or not the EG will
be reset for the second and subsequent note-on. If a new note is
played before the previous note has
finished its release stage, the envelope can either start over from zero,
or continue from the current value.
OFF ():
The note will start from the current
EG level.
ON ():
The second note-on will start from
a level of 0.
Filter EG and Amplifier EG
When the Filter EG changes the cutoff frequency, the tone will change.
OFF
However depending on the volume changes produced by the Amplifier
EG, this can be heard in different ways. For example by changing the
speed at which the tone and volume begin (attack) or decay, you can
ON
significantly vary the character of the tonal change. It is a good idea to
adjust the changes of both the Filter EG (tone) and the Amplifier EG
(volume) as you proceed with editing.
Note off
Note on
Note on (Retrigger)
The "EG RESET" parameter is
only available if "VOICE ASSIGN" is set to Poly, or if "VOICE
ASSIGN" is set to Mono or Unison and "TRIGGER" is set to
Multi.
26
8.AMP (Amplifier) — SYNTH
These parameters specify the volume. The sound that is created by passing through the oscillator and filter is amplified by the amp. "LEVEL"
(knob 1) adjusts the volume. "KBD TRACK" (knob 4) adjusts how keyboard tracking will affect the volume, and "DISTORTION" (knob 3)
specifies whether the sound will be distorted.
You can use "PANPOT" (knob 2) to set the pan (stereo position of the sound).
LEVEL[0...127]
Adjusts the volume of the timbre.
If the "SINGLE/LAYER" is Layer,
this setting will adjust the volume
balance between timbre 1 and timbre 2.
PANPOT[L63...Center...R63]
Adjusts the location of the sound in
the stereo field.
L63(
is center, and R63 (
) is far left, Center ()
) is far right.
DISTORTION[OFF, ON]
Specifies whether distortion will be
applied to the output of the timbre.
The degree of distortion is adjusted
by the output level of each oscillator in the MIXER.
OFF ():
Distortion is off.
ON ():
Distortion is on.
KBD TRACK[-63...63]
Specifies how keyboard tracking
will affect the volume.
With positive (+) settings, the volume will increase as you play above
the C4 note on the keyboard, and
will decrease as you play below C4.
With negative (-) settings, the volume will decrease as you play
above the C4 note on the keyboard,
and will increase as you play below
C4.
Keyboard Track operates according to the pitch that is controlled by pitch bend, and transpose. It is not affected by pitch
changes produced by vibrato or
Virtual Patch.
27
9.AMP EG — SYNTH/VOCODER
Here you can make settings for the AMP EG, which applies time-variant change to the volume (➝Figure 9-1). By making AMP EG settings,
you can make the volume change as time passes. Create the desired volume curve by adjusting the ADSR parameters; ATTACK (knob 1),
DECAY (knob 2), SUSTAIN (knob 3), RELEASE (knob 4).
You can use AMP EG as a Virtual Patch source to modulate parameters other than volume. (➝p.30)
ATTACK[0...127]
Specifies the time from note-on
(when the key is pressed) until the
attack level (maximum value of the
envelope) is reached.
EG (Envelope Generator)
DECAY[0...127]
Specifies the time from when the attack level is reached until the sustain level (SUSTAIN) is reached.
SUSTAIN[0...127]
Specifies the volume that will be
maintained after the decay time has
elapsed, as long as you continue
holding the key.
Figure 9-1
To a significant extent, each sound has its own distinctive volume curve.
For example when you play a note on a piano, the note begins at the
maximum volume, and gradually diminishes. When you release your
finger from the key, the sound will disappear quickly with a brief decay.
Volume curves such as this are an important aspect of how we identify the
sound of a specific instrument. This type of change also occurs in the tone
Attack Level
and pitch, as well as in the volume. On a synthesizer, this type of change is
produced by an EG. The microKORG has dedicated EGs for the filter and
for the amp. However since these EGs can be used as Virtual Patch
sources, you are also free to use them to vary the pitch or numerous other
aspects of the sound.
Some example settings are shown below.
[1]: Attack Time[3]: Sustain Level
[2]: Decay Time[4]: Release Time
Note on
Attack: 40Sustain: 75
Decay: 50Release: 50
[3]
[2]
Note off
RELEASE[0...127]
Specifies the time from note-off
(when the key is released) until the
level reaches 0.
Note off
Time
[4]
Time
EG RESET[OFF, ON]
Specifies whether or not the EG will
be reset for the second and subsequent note-on. If a new note is
played before the previous note has
finished its release stage, the envelope can either start over from zero,
or continue from the current value.
OFF ():
The note will start from the current
EG level.
ON ():
The second note-on will start from
a level of 0.
OFF
ON
Note on
Note off
Note on (Retrigger)
The "EG RESET" parameter is
available only when "VOICE
ASSIGN" is Poly, or when
"VOICE ASSIGN" is Mono or
Unison and "TRIGGER" is Multi.
28
10. LFO 1, 11. LFO 2 — SYNTH/VOCODER
Note on
Note on
1VOICE
2VOICE
The timbre has two LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillator).
The cyclic change produced by an LFO can modulate various aspects of the sound such as the pitch, tone, or volume.
Use "WAVE" (knob 1) to select the LFO waveform, knob 2 to select the key sync method, "TEMPO SYNC" (knob 3) to synchronize the LFO
cycle to the tempo, and "FREQUENCY"/"SYNC NOTE" (knob 4) to specify the frequency.
LFO1 and LFO2 can be used as Virtual Patch sources to apply modulation to a variety of parameters. (➝p.30)
WAVE (LFO1)[Saw, Square1,
Triangle, Sample&Hold]
WAVE (LFO2)[Saw, Square2,
Sine, Sample&Hold]
Selects the LFO waveform.
Figure 10-1
Saw ():
Square1 (
Square2 (
Triangle (
Sine (
):
):
):
):
Sample&Hold ():
Amplitude changes
irregularly
(sample & hold)
KEY SYNC[OFF, Timbre, Voice]
Specifies how the LFO will be applied to a voice when note-on occurs.
OFF ():
The LFO phase will not be reset
when note-on occurs.
(➝Figure 10-2)
Timbre ():
The LFO phase will be reset at the
first note-on that occurs from a state
of no keys pressed. Subsequently,
modulation will continue to be applied at the same LFO phase even
TEMPO SYNC[OFF, ON]
Specifies whether the LFO cycle
will be synchronized to the tempo
or MIDI Clock.
OFF ():
The LFO will not be synchronized.
It will operate at the frequency
specified by the "FREQUENCY"
parameter.
ON ():
The LFO will be synchronized to
the ARPEG.A "TEMPO" or to MIDI
Clock messages from an external
device.
for subsequent note-on's.
(➝Figure 10-3)
Voice ():
The LFO phase will be reset at each
If "TEMPO SYNC" is ON, selecting LFO2 Frequency () as
"DEST" in PATCH 1–4 will have
no effect.
note-on, and modulation of differing phases will apply to each voice.
(➝Figure 10-4)
LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator)
The LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator) is an oscillator that produces a relatively slow (lowfrequency) oscillation, and is used to apply cyclic modulation to various aspects of the sound.
Some typical ways to use LFO are vibrato (use LFO to raise and lower the pitch), wah (use LFO
to raise and lower the cutoff frequency), and tremolo (use LFO to raise and lower the
volume).You can select LFO as a Virtual Patch source, select the desired parameter as the
destination, and apply modulation to produce various effects.
The microKORG provides some dedicated parameters for applying modulation from the LFO;
for LFO1 you can use OSC1 "CONTROL 2," and for LFO2 you can use PITCH "VIBRATO INT."
FREQUENCY[0...127]
Specifies the frequency of the LFO.
Figure 10-2
Increasing this value will result in
a faster frequency.
This parameter will be displayed
and can be set if "TEMPO SYNC" is
OFF.
Figure 10-3
SYNC NOTE[1.1...1.32]
Specifies the proportion of the LFO
cycle relative to the tempo specified
by ARPEG.A "TEMPO." ( ➝p.65)
Figure 10-4
This parameter will be displayed
and can be set if "TEMPO SYNC" is
ON.
The microKORG provides four Virtual Patch routes that let you create more sophisticated sounds. Each patch lets you select a modulation
"SOURCE" (knob 1) and modulation destination "DEST" (knob 2), and specify the intensity of modulation "MOD INT" (knob 3). By using
various patchings you can create a wide variety of changes in the sound.
For example if you set the modulation source "SOURCE" (knob 1) to LFO2 (
CutOff (
), and use "MOD INT" (knob 3) to adjust the depth of the effect, LFO2 will create a cyclic change in tone (a "wah" effect).
) and set the modulation destination "DEST" (knob 2) to
SOURCE[FILTER
EG, AMP EG,
DEST[Pitch, OSC2 Tune, OSC1
LFO 1, LFO 2, Velocity, KBD Track,
Pitch Bend, MOD.Wheel]
Selects a modulation source.
For example if you select Filter EG
(
), the Filter EG will be the
modulation source.
FILTER EG (): FILTER EG
AMP EG (
LFO 1 (
): AMP EG
): LFO 1
LFO 2 (): LFO 2
Velocity (
):
Velocity (keyboard playing
strength)
KBD Track ():
Keyboard tracking (keyboard position)
Keyboard Track operates according to the pitch that is controlled by pitch bend, and transpose. It is not affected by pitch
changes produced by vibrato or
Virtual Patch.
Pitch Bend ():
PITCH wheel
Selects the parameter (destination)
that will be controlled by the modulation.
For example if you select Pitch
(
to the overall pitch of the timbre.
Pitch ():
timbre
OSC2 Tune (): OSC2
"TUNE"
OSC1 Control 1 (
OSC1 "CONTROL 1"
Noise Level (
MIXER "NOISE LEVEL"
CutOff (): FILTER "CUTOFF"
Amp (
Pan (): AMP "P AN"
LFO2 Frequency (
LFO2 "FREQUENCY"
MOD.Wheel (): MOD
wheel
Control 1, Noise Level, CutOff,
Amp, Pan, LFO2 Frequency]
), modulation will be applied
Overall pitch of the
):
):
): AMP "LEVEL"
):
If LFO "TEMPO SYNC" is ON,
selecting LFO2 Frequency will
have no effect.
MOD INT[-63...63]
Specifies the depth of the effect produced by the modulation source.
With a setting of 0, there will be no
modulation.
Virtual Patch
On modular analog synthesizers, the input or output of each module
(oscillator, filter, amp, EG, LFO, and other controllers) was connected
("patched") by a patch cord as desired, allowing you a great deal of
freedom in creating the sound. The Korg MS-20 (which went on sale in
1978) also allowed a limited degree of this type of patching.
The microKORG lets you perform this patching "virtually" (i.e., without
using physical patch cords), so you can assign sources such as EG or LFO
to the most important parameters (destinations).
The Filter EG or Amp EG will vary the pitch of the entire timbre over time.
The Filter EG or Amp EG will vary the pan over time. By setting two patches to "MOD
INT" settings with the opposite (+/-) value you can create more complex panning.
Vibrato will be applied at the LFO1 or LFO2 frequency.
Wah will be applied at the LFO1 or LFO2 frequency .
Tremolo will be applied at the LFO1 or LFO2 frequency.
Auto pan will be applied at the LFO1 or LFO2 frequency.
Velocity (keyboard playing strength) will affect the volume.
Keyboard position will gradually change the pan; lower notes at the left,
and higher notes at the right.
PITCH wheel operations or pitch bend change will move the sound between
left and right.
MOD wheel operations or CC#1 will vary the cutoff frequency.
MOD wheel operations or CC#1 will vary the LFO2 speed.
30
Editing a vocoder program
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Overview
A vocoder is a device that analyzes the character (the frequency response of each
band) of a "modulator" signal (typically a human voice from a mic), and applies a
filter with the analyzed characteristics to the "carrier" signal (typically a waveform
produced by an oscillator), imposing a vocal character on that waveform, and
making it seem as though the instrument is talking.
The microKORG contains an eight-channel vocoder (sixteen filters in pairs). In
addition to simulating the classic vocoder sounds of the past, you can modify the
character of the sound, or edit the level of each frequency band to create truly
original vocoder sounds.
As shown in figure v0-1, a vocoder program consists of a carrier (the signal that is
modified), a modulator (the signal that modulates the carrier), a vocoder section,
effects, and arpeggiator.
Carrier
The carrier signal that is processed by the vocoder effect can be the microKORG's
internal waveform selected by OSC 1 and NOISE, or a waveform that is input from
AUDIO IN 2 (LINE jack). Suitable choices for the carrier waveform are sawtooth
waves which contain a rich array of overtones, and the VOX WAVE which has a
character similar to human vocal cords.
The volumes of OSC1/NOISE/AUDIO 2 IN are adjusted by the MIXER, and the
combined signal is output to the Vocoder section.
The structure of a vocoder program
bandpass filters (ANALYSIS FILTER), and the ENVELOPE FOLLOWER detects the
volume envelope (time-variant change) of each frequency band.
Then, the signal from the internal tone generator or the AUDIO IN 2 jack (carrier) is
input to the other set of 16 band-pass filters (SYNTHESIS FILTER), and processed
by the envelopes detected by the ENVELOPE FOLLOWER to modulate the carrier
with the features of the voice, producing the impression that the instrument or
sound is talking (vocoder effect).
It is also possible to use the "FORMANT SHIFT" or "CUTOFF" parameters to
change each frequency of the carrier band-pass filter. This will cause the frequency
response curve to be raised or lowered while preserving the character of the
modulator, and will dramatically affect the tone.
EFFECTS
The output from the vocoder section is sent to the modulation effect (MOD FX) ➝
delay effect (DELAY) ➝ equalizer (EQ).
For the modulation effect you can choose from three effects such as chorus. For
delay, you can choose from three types of delay, including stereo delay. The
equalizer is a two-band equalizer.
ARPEGGIATOR
The arpeggiator can be used to play a vocoder program.
This is a step arpeggiator with six arpeggio types.
Figure v0-1
Modulator
The signal that is input to the AUDIO IN 1 (CONDENSER jack or DYNAMIC jack)
will be the modulator. In general, it is most common for a voice to be input to the
modulator, but you can create unique effects by inputting rhythm sounds or other
waveforms.
Vocoder section (Vocoder sec.)
This consists of two sets of 16 band-pass filters (ANALYSIS FILTER and SYNTHESIS FILTER) and the ENVELOPE FOLLOWER.
The audio signal from the AUDIO IN 1 jack (modulator) is input to sixteen
31
1. VOICE— SYNTH/VOCODER
The "1. VOICE" parameters are the same as for a synth program with a "SINGLE/LAYER" setting of Single (➝p.16).
To use the program as a vocoder program, set "SYNTH/VOCODER" (knob 1) to Vocoder (
)).
2. PITCH— SYNTH/VOCODER
The "2. PITCH" parameters are the same as for a synth program (➝p.17). They specify the pitch of the carrier.
3. OSC1 — SYNTH/VOCODER
Here you can select the waveform of the carrier.
The "3. OSC1" parameters are the same as for a synth program (➝p.18).
By selecting a different waveform for "WAVE" (knob 1) you can change the depth of the effect. Normally, you will set OSC 1 "WAVE" to be a
triangle wave which contains a rich set of overtones, or VOX WAVE which simulates a waveform similar to that produced by human vocal
cords. Alternatively, you can select DWGS (
play a chord to obtain rich sounds.
Editing example for a vocoder program
Adjust the audio from the mic input.
1
Turn the EDIT SELECT 1 knob to the AUDIO IN 1 position.
Turn knob 2 ("THRESHOLD"). As you turn the knob toward the right,
the sound will be cut more readily. Adjust this so that noise is not
obtrusive when you are not speaking into the mic. Then adjust knob 1
("GATE SENSE") so that the vocoder sound that is output is not cut
off in an unnatural way.
Turning knob 4 ("HPF GATE") toward the right will emphasize the
consonants (e.g., "s" sounds) of the input voice. (➝p.33)
Make filter settings.
2
Turn the EDIT SELECT 1 knob to the FILTER position.
Turn knob 4 ("EF SENSE") to adjust the sensitivity of the envelope
follower. As you turn the knob toward the right, the vocoder output
), and use "CONTROL 2" to select waveform number 26 (5th Wave3: a fifth interval), and
will rise more smoothly, and the release will become longer.
Turning knob 2 ("CUTOFF") or knob 1 ("FORMANT SHIFT") will vary
the cutoff frequency of the band pass filter for the carrier, changing
the character of the vocoder output. (➝p.35)
Turn the EDIT SELECT 2 knob to the CH LEVEL A or CH LEVEL B
position. Turn knobs 1–4 for CH LEVEL A or CH LEVEL B to adjust
the band pass filter output levels for each of the eight channels of the
carrier.
Turn the EDIT SELECT 2 knob to the CH PAN A or CH PAN B
position. Turn knobs 1–4 for CH PAN A or CH PAN B to adjust the
band pass filter output pan for each of the eight channels of the
carrier.
32
4. AUDIO IN 1 — VOCODER
These parameters adjust the input from AUDIO IN 1 (the modulator).
Adjust "THRESHOLD" (knob 2) so that noise is not heard when you are not speaking, and adjust "GATE SENSE" (knob 1) so that the
vocoder sound is not cut off unnaturally. Use "HPF LEVEL" (knob 3) to emphasize the consonants (such as "s" sounds) of the input voice.
GATE SENSE[0...127]
Specifies the speed of the gate that
will operate according to the
"THRESHOLD" setting.
Lower values for this setting will
make the gate operate more quickly ,
causing the vocoder sound to decay
more quickly.
Higher values for this setting will
make the gate operate more gradually, causing the vocoder sound to
have a longer decay.
If the "THRESHOLD" value is
high, this effect will apply more
readily. If the threshold value is
0, there will be no effect.
THRESHOLD[0...127]
Specifies the level at which the audio signal from the AUDIO IN 1
jack will be silenced.
Increasing this value will cause the
audio signal to be silenced. This lets
you eliminate any noise that might
be heard when no input signal is
present.
If this setting is set excessively
high, the audio signal will also
be cut, and it will be difficult for
the vocoder effect to apply.
HPF LEVEL[0...127]
Adjusts the amount of the high-frequency portion of the audio signal
input from the AUDIO IN 1 jack
that will be mixed into the output
of the vocoder.
Increasing this value will emphasize the portion that corresponds to
the consonants of speech or singing.
HPF GATE[Disable, Enable]
Specifies whether the high-frequency portion of the signal from
AUDIO IN 1 that is mixed into the
vocoder output will be passed only
during the key-on (note-on) duration, or will always be allowed to
pass.
Disable ():
The high-frequency portion of the
signal will always be passed.
This is effective when you are playing a guitar etc. that is connected
via an effect unit to AUDIO IN 2.
Enable ():
The high-frequency portion of the
signal will be passed only during
the key-on (note-on) duration.
Use this setting if you are applying
the vocoder effect only to an internal sound source, or if you have
connected a synthesizer etc. to AUDIO IN 2. (The signal will be passed
when a MIDI note-on is received.)
33
5.MIXER — VOCODER
This sets the output level of the carrier. The level you specify here will be the input level to the band-pass filter (Synthesis Filter) of the
carrier.
OSC 1 LEVEL[0...127]
Specifies the output level of Oscillator 1 (carrier).
INST LEVEL[0...127]
Specifies the output level of the signal that is input from AUDIO IN 2.
Using an external input as the carrier of the vocoder
Here's how to use a signal input from the AUDIO IN 2 LINE jack as the
vocoder carrier (the signal that is modulated).
As described in the connections for "1. Playing a vocoder program"
1
and "Processing an external input signal" (➝p.10, 21), connect the
included mic to the AUDIO IN 1 CONDENSER jack, and connect the
output jack of your external device to the AUDIO IN 2 LINE jack. Use
the VOLUME 1 and VOLUME 2 knobs to adjust the levels so that the
audio signals are output to AUDIO IN 1 and 2.
When you raise the MIXER "INST LEVEL" (knob 2) value, the input
2
signal from AUDIO IN 2 will be input to the band pass filter
(synthesis filter) of the carrier.
When you raise the MIXER "OSC 1 LEVEL" (knob 1) and play the
3
keyboard, the OSC 1 waveform will be input to the band pass filter of
the carrier.
If you set the AUDIO IN 1 "HPF GATE" (knob 4) to Disable (),
4
the high-frequency portion of the input signal from the AUDIO IN 1
jack will always be output.
NOISE LEVEL[0...127]
Specifies the output level of the
noise generator.
1 2
MIDI OUT
TAP
5710 12
MIDI IN
MIDI keyboard, tone generator module, rhythm machine etc.
By using "FORMANT SHIFT" (knob 1) and "CUTOFF" (knob 2) to shift the cutoff frequency of each band pass filter of the carrier (the
"synthesis filter"), you can raise or lower the frequency response while maintaining the character of the modulator, thus varying the
character of the vocoder output. Both of these knobs do the same thing, and have the same range. FORMANT SHIFT is indexed to shift
from filter to filter, and CUTOFF is continously variable. In addition, you can use "E.F. SENSE" (knob 4) to adjust the sensitivity of the
Envelope Follower for the modulator, in order to vary the smoothness of the attack and the length of the release for the vocoder output.
FORMANT SHIFT
[0, 1, 2, -1, -2]
Shifts the cutoff frequency of each
band-pass filter of the carrier, in
units of filters.
"FORMANT SHIFT" and "CUTOFF"
Each parameter allows you to vary the character over a range of two steps
upward or downward (a total of four steps upward or downward when
used together). If both of these parameters are at 0, the character will
match the cutoff frequencies of the modulator band pass filters (the
analysis filter).
Formant Shift:+2
BPFBPFBPFBPFBPFBPF
897
0+63-63
Cutoff (range in which BPF 8 will change)
-63
CUTOFF[-63...63]
This continuously shifts the cutoff
frequency of each band-pass filter
of the carrier.
Frequency
BPFBPFBPFBPFBPFBPF
897
0
Cutoff (range in which BPF 8 will change)
Frequency
+63
RESONANCE[0...127]
Specifies the amount of resonance
for each band-pass filter of the carrier.
Increasing this value will emphasize the regions near each cutoff frequency.
E.F.SENSE[0...126, Hold]
Specifies the sensitivity of the Envelope Follower for the modulator.
Lower settings of this value will allow the attacks of the input signal
to be detected more rapidly.
If you set this to Hold (
character of the signal that is being
input at that moment will be held.
Subsequently , the sound will r etain
that character regardless of whether
there is any input.
), the
The signal information that is
maintained in the Hold state can
be saved in the program by writing the program.
If you set this to Hold when
there is no input signal present,
there will be no output even if
an audio signal is subsequently
input.
This value will automatically be
set to Hold if you press the
FORMANT HOLD key. Hihger
values will retain more of the
sound’s natural decay.
Table 6-1
Although the microKORG's editable
band-pass filter has eight channels,
it internally contains sixteen bandpass filters. These sixteen filters are
arranged in pairs (a pair for each
channel). Table 6-1 shows how the
frequencies adjusted by "FORMANT
SHIFT" and "CUTOFF" correspond to
the frequencies of the sixteen filters.
35
7.FC MOD — VOCODER
These parameters select the modulation source that will vary the cutoff frequency of the carrier band-pass filter (the synthesis filter), and
specify the depth of the modulation. For example if you set the modulation source "SOURCE" (knob 1) to AMP EG (A.EG) and use "INTENSITY" (knob 2) to adjust the depth of the effect, the AMP EG will produce tonal changes.
SOURCE [AMP EG, LFO 1, LFO 2,
Velocity, KBD Track,
Pitch Bend, MOD.Wheel]
Selects the modulation source that
will be applied to the carrier bandpass filter "CUTOFF."
For example if you select AMP EG
(
), the Amp EG will be the
modulation source.
AMP EG (): AMP EG
LFO 1 (
LFO 2 (
Velocity (
Velocity (keyboard playing
strength)
KBD Track ():
Keyboard tracking (keyboard position)
Pitch Bend ():
PITCH wheel
MOD.Wheel ():
MOD wheel
): LFO 1
): LFO 2
):
INTENSITY[-63...63]
Specifies the depth of the modulation that is applied to the carrier
band-pass filter "CUTOFF."
36
8.AMP — VOCODER
These parameters adjust the volume. "LEVEL" (knob 1) specifies the volume of the internal sound source (OSC 1, NOISE) for the carrier.
"KBD TRACK" (knob 4) specifies how keyboard tracking will affect the volume, and "DISTORTION" (knob 3) specifies whether the sound
will be distorted.
The "DIRECT LEVEL" (knob 2) specifies the output volume level of the sound that is input from AUDIO IN 1.
LEVEL[0...127]
Specifies the volume level of the internal tone generator (OSC1,
NOISE) for the carrier.
DIRECT LEVEL[0...127]
Specifies the volume level of the audio that is output directly from
AUDIO IN 1.
9.AMP EG — SYNTH/VOCODER
The "9. AMP EG" parameters are the same as for a synth program (➝p.28). They specify the shape of the AMP EG, which creates time-variant
change in the volume of the internal carrier sound source (OSC 1, NOISE). Virtual Patches are not available when using vocoder programs.
10. LFO 1, 11. LFO 2 — SYNTH/VOCODER
The "10. LFO1" and "11. LFO2" parameters are the same as for a synth program (➝p.29). Cyclic change produced by the LFO can apply
modulation to the internal carrier sound source (OSC 1, NOISE). Virtual Patches are not available when using vocoder programs.
DISTORTION[OFF, ON]
Specifies whether distortion will be
applied to the OSC 1, NOISE, and
AUDIO IN 2 signal.
OFF ():
Distortion is off
ON ():
Distortion is on
KBD TRACK[-63...63]
Specifies how keyboard tracking
will affect the volume.
With positive (+) settings, the volume will increase as you play above
the note C4 on the keyboard, and
will decrease as you play below C4.
With negative (-) settings, the volume will decrease as you play
above C4 on the keyboard, and will
increase as you play below C4.
Keyboard Track operates according to the pitch that is controlled by pitch bend and the
"TRANSPOSE" setting. It is not
affected by pitch changes produced by vibrato or Virtual
Patch.
37
12. CH LEVEL A, 13. CH LEVEL B — VOCODER
These parameters set the level for each of the eight band-pass filter channels (SYNTHESIS FILTER) of the carrier (➝p.35).
This lets you adjust the output level of the internal carrier sound source (OSC 1, NOISE).
If desired, you can initialize (127) the level of all band-pass filter channels in a single step. (➝p.60)
These parameters set the output level for each of the eight band-pass filter channels of the carrier.
CH 4 LEVEL[0...127]
CH 8 LEVEL[0...127]
14. CH PAN A, 15. CH PAN B — VOCODER
These parameters set the pan for each of the eight band-pass filter channels (SYNTHESIS FILTER) of the
carrier (➝p.35).
This lets you adjust the stereo position of the internal carrier sound source (OSC 1, NOISE).
If desired, you can initialize (center) the pan of all band-pass filter channels in a single step. (➝p.60)
These parameters set the pan for each of the eight band-pass filter channels of the carrier. L63 () is far left, Center () is center, and R63
(
) is far right.
38
Editing the effects and EQ
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The microKORG's effect structure
Overview
The output from the amp section of a synth program or vocoder program is sent to
the modulation effect (MOD FX) ➝ delay effect (DELAY FX) ➝ equalizer (EQ).
(➝p.15 Figure 0-1, ›p.31 Figure v0-1)
You can edit the modulation type effect and the delay effect to create the desired
sound in the same way as when editing the filter or amp parameters. You can use
effects to modify the sound in a variety of ways. Then you can use the two-band EQ
to make final adjustments to the tone, before the sound is sent to the L/R outputs. To
bypass any of the effects, set the FX depth (or EQ gain) value to zero.
Modulation-type effect (MOD FX)
Choose one of three effects: Chorus/Flanger, Ensemble, or Phaser.
Delay effect (DELAY FX)
Choose one of three effects: Stereo Delay, Cross Delay, or L/R Delay.
Equalizer (EQ)
This is a two-band EQ.
39
16. MOD FX — SYNTH/VOCODER
The modulation effect applies various types of cyclic change to the original sound. You can use it to give the sound greater depth, or to
produce the impression that multiple sound sources are being heard simultaneously. You can also use LFO modulation to simulate cyclic
changes produced by a performer on an instrument, such as breathing on a wind instrument or the strings of a string instrument. "TYPE"
(knob 1 ) selects the type of modulation effect, "EFFECT DEPTH" (knob 3 ) sets the depth and the amount of feedback for the modulation
effect. "LFO SPEED" (knob 2 ) sets the speed of modulation.
TYPE[Flanger/Chorus,
Ensemble, Phaser]
Selects the effect type.
Flanger/Chorus ():
This effect modulates the delay time
of the input signal to add depth and
warmth to the sound. Increasing the
"EFFECT DEPTH" value will produce a flanger effect.
Ensemble ():
This effect uses multiple chorus
units to add three-dimensional
depth and spaciousness to the
sound.
Phaser ():
This effect continuously modulates
the phase of the sound, creating
motion within the sound, a sweeping and twisting sensation.
LFO SPEED[0...127]
Specifies the speed of the modulation effect LFO.
EFFECT DEPTH[0...127]
Specifies the modulation depth and
amount of feedback. Increasing this
value will deepen the modulation
effect and also increase the amount
of feedback. If you do not wish to
apply the effect, set this to 0.
Excessively high settings of this
parameter may cause the output
to be distorted.
40
17. DELAY — SYNTH/VOCODER
The delay effect simulates the delays that occur when sound travels through air.
"TYPE" (knob 1 ) selects the type of delay effect. "DELAY DEPTH" (knob 4 ) sets the delay depth and the amount of feedback. "TEMPO SYNC"
(knob 2 ) specifies whether the delay time will be synchronized to the tempo set by the arpeggiator or by an external MIDI clock.
TYPE[Stereo Delay,
Cross Delay, L/R Delay]
Selects the delay type.
Stereo Delay ():
This is a stereo delay.
(➝Figure 17-1)
Cross Delay ():
This is a stereo delay where the left
and right channels of feedback are
interchanged. In a Layer program,
it is effective to set the pan of the
two timbres to left and right respectively. (➝Figure 17-2)
TEMPO SYNC[OFF, ON]
Specifies whether the delay time
will be synchronized to the tempo.
OFF ():
DELAY TIME[0...127]
Sets the delay time.
This parameter is available only if
"TEMPO SYNC" is OFF.
Delay off (not synchronized). The
delay will operate according to the
"DELAY TIME" value you specify.
ON ():
Delay on (synchronized). The delay
will synchronize to the ARPEG.A
"TEMPO" setting or to MIDI Clock
data from an external device.
SYNC NOTE[1.32...1.1]
Specifies the ratio of the delay time
relative to the ARPEG.A "TEMPO"
value. (➝p.65)
This parameter is available only if
"TEMPO SYNC" is ON.
L/R Delay ():
This is a delay where the delay
sound is output to left and right alternately. (➝Figure 17-3)
Figure 17-1Figure 17-2Figure 17-3
Stereo Delay
FEEDBACK
FEEDBACK
DELAY
DELAY
Cross Delay
FEEDBACK
DELAY
DELAY
FEEDBACK
L/R Delay
FEEDBACK
FEEDBACK
DELAY DEPTH[0...127]
Specifies the delay depth and feedback amount. Increasing this value
will make the delay louder and will
also increase the amount of feedback.
If you do not wish to apply a delay ,
set this to 0.
Excessively high settings of this
parameter may cause the output
to be distorted.
DELAY
DELAY
41
18. EQ — SYNTH/VOCODER
This is a two-band equalizer. Use EQ FREQ (knobs 1 and 3 to specify the frequency that you want to adjust, and use knobs 2 and 4 to adjust
the gain of each frequency band.
Excessively raising the equalizer gain parameters may cause the output to be distorted.
LOW EQ FREQ. [40Hz...1.00kHz]
Sets the frequency of the low-range
equalizer.
LOW EQ GAIN[-12...12]
Sets the amount of boost or cut for
the low-range equalizer.
HI EQ FREQ.[1.00kHz...18.0kHz]
Sets the frequency of the high-range
equalizer.
HI EQ GAIN[-12...12]
Sets the amount of boost or cut for
equalizer.
42
Editing the arpeggiator
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Overview
The microKORG's arpeggiator provides six arpeggio types. You can adjust the
duration (gate time) and spacing of the notes played by the arpeggiator. The
arpeggiator settings are adjusted by the ARPEG.A and ARPEG.B parameters.
Each of the up to eight steps produced by the ARPEG.A and ARPEG.B settings can
be switched on/off using the "step arpeggiator," for even more performance
possibilities. (➝Refer to page 11 for more information about using the step
arpeggiator.)
Selecting the timbre(s) that will be played by the arpeggiator
In a synth program that uses two timbres (Layer), you can select the timbre(s) that
will be sounded by the arpeggiator. This is specified by ARPEG.B "TARGET
TIMBRE" (knob 5 ). You can arpeggiate both timbres, or only timbre 1 or 2.
Synchroning the rate of LFO 1/2 or the delay time of the delay
effect to the arpeggiator tempo
By synchronizing the LFO 1/2 rate to the tempo of the arpeggio, you can apply
modulation that is synchronized to the tempo. You can also specify the time
parameter of the delay effect to be a ratio of the tempo, so that the delay time will
remain appropriate even if you change the tempo of the arpeggio. This is particularly convenient for live performances. (➝p.65)
Since the microKORG's arpeggiator can be synchronized to an external MIDI
sequencer, you can control the LFO 1/2 rate or the delay time from an external MIDI
sequencer. (➝p.50)
The structure of arpeggiator
43
19. ARPEG. A — SYNTH/VOCODER
Here you can make various arpeggio-related settings. "TYPE" (knob 4 ) selects the arpeggio type. "TEMPO" sets the tempo of the arpeggiator,
and "RESOLUTION" (knob 2 ) specifies the spacing of the notes relative to the tempo. "GATE (knob 3 ) sets the duration of the arpeggiated
notes, and "RANGE" (knob 5 ) specifies the range of pitch (one to four octaves, in one-octave steps) in which the arpeggio will be played. You
may hold down as many keys as you like to create an arpeggiated program.
TEMPO[20...300]
Specifies the tempo of the arpeggio.
Increasing this value will speed up
the arpeggio tempo.
If MIDI "CLOCK" is set to External, or if it is set to Auto when
there is an external input, this
setting will be ignored and the
arpeggiator will synchronize to
the external MIDI Clock.
44
RESOLUTION[1/24...1/4]
Specifies the resolution (spacing of
the notes) relative to the tempo
specified by "TEMPO." (➝p.65)
1/24 ():
The arpeggio will be played as sixteenth note triplets of the specified
tempo.
1/16 ():
The arpeggio will be played as sixteenth notes of the specified tempo.
1/12 ():
The arpeggio will be played as
eighth note triplets of the specified
tempo.
1/8 ():
The arpeggio will be played as
eighth notes of the specified tempo.
1/6 ():
The arpeggio will be played as
quarter note triplets of the specified
tempo.
1/4 ():
The arpeggio will be played as
quarter notes of the specified
tempo.
GATE[0...100]
Specifies the duration (gate time) of
the arpeggiated notes, as a percent-
age (%).
With a setting of 0, each note will
be extremely short.
With set to 100, each note will con-
tinue playing until the next step.
TYPE[Up, Down, Alternate 1,
Alternate 2, Random, Trigger]
Selects the arpeggio type. (➝Figure
19-1)
Up ():
Notes will be played consecutively
from low to high pitches.
Down ():
Notes will be played consecutively
from high to low pitches.
Alternate 1 ():
Up and Down will be alternated.
(The highest and lowest notes will
be sounded once.)
Alternate 2 ():
Up and Down will be alternated.
(The highest and lowest notes will
be sounded twice.)
Random ():
Notes will be played randomly.
Trigger ():
The notes you are holding down will
be played simultaneously at the tempo
and "RESOLUTION" timing. The
"RANGE" setting will be ignored.
If you are holding down more notes
RANGE[1...4]
Specifies the range of octaves over
which the arpeggio will be played.
Figure 19-1
Up
Down
Alternate 1
Alternate 2
Random
Trigger
(➚)
(➘)
than the maximum polyphony of
the timbre, the lowest pitches you are
holding down will be played, up to the
maximum polyphony.
20. ARPEG. B — SYNTH/VOCODER
Here you can make additional arpeggio-r elated settings. "LAST STEP" (knob 4 ) sets the number of steps in the arpeggio. "LATCH" (knob 1 )
specifies how the arpeggiator will operate when you release the keyboard, "SWING" (knob 2 ) adjusts the sense of swing, and "KEY SYNC"
(knob 3 ) specifies how the arpeggiator will be synchronized to the keyboard. In addition, "TARGET TIMBRE" (knob 5 ) specifies which
timbre(s) of a Layer synth program will be sounded by the arpeggiator.
LATCH[OFF, ON]
Specifies how the arpeggiator will
operate when you take your hand
off of the keyboard.
OFF ():
The arpeggiator will stop playing
when you take your hand off of the
keyboard.
ON ():
The arpeggiator will continue playing even if you take your hand off
of the keyboard.
SWING[-100...100]
Specifies the percentage (%) by
which even-numbered notes of the
arpeggio will be shifted in timing
relative to the first note.
(➝Figure 20-1)
Figure 20-1
Swing
KEY SYNC[OFF, ON]
Specifies whether the arpeggiator
will be synchronized to the keyboard.
If this is ON, the arpeggiator will
always start from the beginning of
the arpeggio pattern when you play
the keyboard. If you are performing together with other instruments, you can use this function to
ensure that the arpeggio pattern is
aligned with the beginning of the
measure.
OFF ():
Sync off (not synchronized).
ON ():
Sync on (synchronized).
When Resolution =1/8
123456789
–50–25+25+50
LAST STEP[1...8]
Specifies the number of valid steps
(maximum number of steps) for the
step arpeggiator.
TARGET TIMBRE
Selects the timbre(s) that will be
sounded by the arpeggiator. This
can be set only for a Layer program.
Both ():
Both timbres will be sounded by the
arpeggiator.
Timbre 1 ():
Only timbre 1 will be sounded by
the arpeggiator.
Timbre 2 ():
Only timbre 2 will be sounded by
the arpeggiator.
[Both, Timbre 1, Timbre 2]
45
Overall settings (GLOBAL)
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GLOBAL structure
Overview
The GLOBAL section lets you can make overall settings for the microKORG.
For example, although it is possible to individually adjust the pitch of each synth or
vocoder program, you can use the GLOBAL pitch settings ("MASTER TUNE" and
"MASTER TRANSPOSE") to adjust the pitch of all programs. When you are playing
the microKORG together with other instruments, use "MASTER TUNE" to match
the pitch. If you want to transpose the pitch of the song you are playing, you can
adjust "MASTER TRANSPOSE." In cases such as when you use multiple programs
in a single song, it is convenient to simply adjust the GLOBAL setting instead of
adjusting the pitch of each individual program.
Here you can also adjust the way in which your keyboard playing dynamics will
affect the velocity. If you want your playing dynamics to affect parameters such as
volume, set "VELOCITY CURVE" to Curve (
constant velocity so that volume etc. will not be affected by your playing dynamics.
In addition, GLOBAL settings let you specify the MIDI IN/OUT routing within the
microKORG, or specify whether the signal input from AUDIO IN will be passed to
the output without modification.
). Alternatively, you can specify a
46
21. GLOBAL
Here you can make overall settings for the microKORG. "MASTER TUNE" (knob 1) and "MASTER TRANSPOSE" (knob 2) adjust the pitch.
"VELOCITY CURVE" (knob 3) specifies the velocity, "POSITION" (knob 4) specifies the MIDI IN/OUT routing, and "AUDIO IN THRU"
(knob 5) specifies whether the input signal from AUDIO IN will be output directly.
MASTER TUNE[30.0...50.0]
Adjusts the overall pitch in 0.1 Hz
steps over a range of 430.0 Hz to
450.0 Hz, in terms of A4 as the reference pitch. (The highest digit "4"
is not displayed.)
Use this when you need to tune the
pitch of the microKORG to other in-
MASTER TRANSPOSE [-12...12]
Adjusts the overall pitch in steps of
a semitone (100 cents) over a range
of one octave upward or downward.
Use this when you wish to transpose to suit the song you are playing.
struments.
Figure 21-1
MAX
(127)
Velocity
(64)
MIN (1)
ppp
Strength
(MIDI Velocity)
(1)(127)
Curve (CrV)
fff
Figure 21-2
Keyboad
Figure 21-3
Keyboad
VELOCITY CURVE [Curve, 1...127]
Selects how velocity (keyboard
playing dynamics) will affect volume and tone.
Use the setting that is appropriate
for your situation.
Curve ():
The normal curve. (➝Figure 21-1)
1...127:
The fixed velocity you specify here
will be output regardless of how
strongly you play the keyboard.
GLOBAL: Master Transpose
FRONT PANEL: Octave
GLOBAL: Velocity Curve
MIDI IN
FRONT PANEL: Octave
MIDI OUT
MIDI IN
Arpeggiator
GLOBAL: Master Transpose
GLOBAL: Velocity Curve
Timbre 2
Timbre 1
Timbre 2
Timbre 1
Arpeggiator
MIDI OUT
POSITION[Post KBD, Pre TG]
Specifies the internal MIDI IN/
OUT routing within the microKORG. This setting will affect the
way in which MIDI data is transmitted and received, and how the
arpeggiator data is handled.
Post KBD ():
In this position, incoming MIDI
AUDIO IN THRU[OFF, ON]
Specifies whether the signal input
from AUDIO IN will be output directly.
OFF ():
The signal will not be output.
ON ():
The signal will be output.
data will be sent to the timbres
without being affected by the global or front paneltranspose controls,
and will not trigger the arpeggiator.
Data produced by the keyboard will
be converted according to the internal settings, routed through the
arpeggiator (arpeggiator notes are
sent as MIDI data), and then sent
to the MIDI OUT connector.
(➝Figure 21-2)
Pre TG ():
Incoming MIDI data will be affected
by by the global settings, and will
act as trigger notes for the
arpeggiator. Data produced by the
keyboard will be sent to the MIDI
OUT connector without being (➚)
(➘) affected by any setting other
than OCTAVE SHIFT (arpeggiator
notes are NOT sent via MIDI).
(➝Figure 21-3)
This setting is not memorized by
the Write operation. When the
power is turned on, it will always be turned OFF. While you
are editing, ORIGINAL VALUE
will always remain lit.
47
Using the microKORG with
MIDI on the microKORG
other MIDI devices (MIDI)
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Overview
Here you can make MIDI-related settings for the microKORG.
MIDI stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface, and is a world-wide standard
for exchanging various types of musical data between electronic musical instruments and computers. When MIDI cables are used to connect two or more MIDI
devices, performance data can be exchanged between the devices, even if they were
made by different manufacturers.
The microKORG lets you assign control change numbers to the major parameters
that affect the sound, and control these parameters from an external MIDI sequencer while you play the tone generator. You can also operate the assigned knobs
1–5 or keys to transmit these control changes to control an external MIDI device.
You can synchronize the microKORG's arpeggiator, LFO rate, or the delay time of
the delay effect to the MIDI Clock of an external MIDI sequencer.
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Connecting MIDI devices/computers
Controlling an external MIDI tone generator from the microKORG
When you wish to use the microKORG's keyboard, controllers, and arpeggiator etc.
to play an external MIDI tone generator, use a MIDI cable to connect the
microKORG's MIDI OUT connector to the MIDI IN connector of the external MIDI
tone generator.
Controlling the microKORG's tone generator from an external
MIDI device
When you wish to play or control the microKORG's tone generator from an external
MIDI keyboard or sequencer etc., use a MIDI cable to connect the MIDI OUT
connector of the external MIDI device to the MIDI IN connector of the microKORG.
microKORG
MIDI INMIDI OUT
MIDI keyboard
Controlling two or more external MIDI tone generators from the
microKORG
You can use the MIDI THRU connector to simultaneously control multiple MIDI
devices. (This type of connection should be used to connect no more than three
devices. If you wish to connect a larger number of MIDI devices, we recommend
that you use a MIDI patch bay as shown in the second diagram below.)
microKORG
MIDI OUTMIDI INMIDI THRU
MIDI keyboard
You can also use a MIDI patch bay to control multiple MIDI devices.
MIDI IN
TAP
1 2
5710 12
MIDI tone generator
EM-1
14161513119843
48
MIDI INMIDI OUTmicroKORG
MIDI OUTMIDI INmicroKORG
MIDI tone generator
EM-1
TAP
1 2
14161513119843
5710 12
MIDI patch bay
MIDI OUT
MIDI OUT
1 2
TAP
5710 12
EM-1
14161513119843
MIDI IN
MIDI IN
MIDI keyboard
MIDI tone generator
MIDI on the microKORG
Connecting an external MIDI sequencer or computer etc.
You can play the microKORG's keyboard and record your performance on an
external MIDI sequencer/computer (connected via a MIDI interface), and then play
back the recorded performance to sound the microKORG's tone generator (i.e.,
using the microKORG as an input keyboard and MIDI tone generator). To do this,
connect the MIDI OUT and MIDI IN connectors of the microKORG and your
external MIDI sequencer/computer to each other.
Some USB-MIDI interface devices may not be able to transmit/receive the
microKORG's MIDI exclusive messages.
computer
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MIDI interface
microKORG
MIDI OUT
MIDI IN
MIDI INMIDI OUT
MIDI-related settings
MIDI channel setting
In order to exchange data with a connected external MIDI device, you must set the
microKORG's MIDI channel to match the MIDI channel of the external MIDI
device.
1
Set the MIDI channel of the microKORG.
Set the EDIT SELECT 2 dial to the MIDI position, and use knob 1 ("MIDI CH")
to set the MIDI channel. (➝p.51)
2
Set the MIDI channel of the connected external MIDI device.
(➝For information on setting the MIDI channel of the external MIDI device,
refer to the owner's manual of that device.)
GLOBAL "POSITION" setting
The microKORG's GLOBAL "POSITION" lets you specify how MIDI IN/OUT will
be internally routed. This will affect how the MIDI data will be affected by the
"MASTER TRANSPOSE," "VELOCITY CURVE," OCTAVE SHIFT, and arpeggiator
settings. (➝p.47)
•Normally when controlling an external MIDI tone generator from the
•Normally when controlling the microKORG's tone generator from an external
SHIFT function "MIDI FILTER" settings
You can specify whether program change, pitch bend, control change, and system
exclusive messages will be transmitted or received. (➝p.60)
SHIFT function "CONTROL CHANGE" settings
You can assign control change numbers to the major parameters that affect the
sound, and use an external MIDI device to perform the same operations as when
the knobs and keys of the microKORG are operated. Conversely, you can operate
the microKORG's knobs and keys to control an external MIDI device. (➝p.61)
MIDI "LOCAL" setting when connecting an external MIDI
sequencer or computer
If notes are sounding doubled when the microKORG is connected to an external
MIDI sequencer or computer, turn the Local setting off (MIDI "LOCAL" OFF).
(➝p.51)
If the microKORG is connected to an external MIDI sequencer or computer, and the
Echo Back setting of the external MIDI sequencer or computer is turned on while
the microKORG's Local Control setting is also on, the performance data generated
when you play the microKORG's keyboard will be sent to the external MIDI
sequencer, and will also be echoed-back to sound the microKORG's tone generator
microKORG, you will set "POSITION" to Post KBD (
listed above will affect the MIDI data that is transmitted.
The received data will be processed as "MASTER TRANSPOSE": 0, "VELOCITY
CURVE": Curve (
MIDI device, you will set "POSITION" to Pre TG (
listed above will affect the MIDI data that is received (with the exception of
"OCTAVE SHIFT," which will be processed as 0).
The transmitted data will be processed as "MASTER TRANSPOSE": 0 and
"VELOCITY CURVE": Curve (
), and OCTAVE SHIFT: 0.
).
). The various settings
). The various settings
49
MIDI on the microKORG
a second time. To prevent each note from being sounded twice, once directly from
the keyboard and once from the echoed-back note, you must turn the microKORG's
Local Control setting off.
Recording the MIDI output from the microKORG's arpeggiator
onto an external MIDI sequencer or computer
Connect the microKORG's MIDI OUT connector to the MIDI IN connector of your
external MIDI sequencer / computer, and connect the microKORG's MIDI IN
connector to the MIDI OUT connector of your external MIDI sequencer / computer.
(➝p.49)
Then turn the microKORG's Local Control off (MIDI "LOCAL" OFF), and turn on
the echo back setting of your external MIDI sequencer / computer.
Recording the note data from the arpeggiator onto an external MIDI sequencer /
computer
Set the microKORG's GLOBAL "POSITION" to Post KBD ().
Turn on the microKORG's arpeggiator, play the keyboard, and record the note data
on your external MIDI sequencer / computer. If the GLOBAL "POSITION" is set to
Post KBD, the MIDI note data produced by the arpeggiator will be output from the
microKORG, and recorded. (➝p.47)
Turn the microKORG's arpeggiator off during playback.
Recording only the arpeggio-triggering notes on an external MIDI sequencer /
computer, and running the microKORG's arpeggiator during playback
Set the microKORG's GLOBAL "POSITION" to Pre TG ().
Turn on the microKORG's arpeggiator, play the keyboard, and record the note data
on your external MIDI sequencer / computer. If GLOBAL "POSITION" is set to Pre
TG (
MIDI data, and the MIDI note data generated by the arpeggiator will not be
transmitted. However, the MIDI note data echoed back from the external MIDI
sequencer / computer (whose echo back setting is turned on) will trigger the
microKORG's arpeggiator, producing an arpeggio. (➝p.47)
Turn the microKORG's arpeggiator on during playback.
), only the notes you actually play on the keyboard will be transmitted as
Synchronizing the arpeggiator
The MIDI "CLOCK" setting specifies whether the microKORG's arpeggiator will be
the master (the controlling device) or slave (the controlled device).
For information on synchronization-related settings of your external MIDI
device, refer to the manual of your device.
Using the microKORG as master and the external MIDI device as slave
Connect the microKORG's MIDI OUT connector to the external MIDI device's MIDI
IN connector (➝p.48). If you set MIDI "CLOCK" to Internal (
will be the master, and will transmit MIDI timing clock messages.
Make settings on your external MIDI device so it will receive external MIDI clock
data. The external MIDI device (sequencer, rhythm machine, etc.) will operate at the
tempo specified by the ARPEG.A "TEMPO" setting.
Using the external MIDI device as master and the microKORG as slave
Connect the microKORG's MIDI IN connector to the external MIDI device's MIDI
OUT connector (➝p.48). If you set MIDI "CLOCK" to External (
microKORG will be the slave.
The microKORG's arpeggiator will operate at the tempo of the external MIDI device
(sequencer, rhythm machine, etc.).
If you set MIDI "CLOCK" to Auto (), the microKORG will automatically
function using the External setting if MIDI clock is being received from an
external MIDI device connected to the MIDI IN connector. Otherwise, the
microKORG will function using the Internal setting.
), the microKORG
), the
50
22. MIDI
Here you can make MIDI-related settings for the microKORG.
MIDI CH[1...16]
Specifies the MIDI channel.
When you wish to transmit program changes or system exclusive
messages via MIDI, set the global
MIDI channel to match the MIDI
channel of the connected MIDI device.
LOCAL[OFF, ON]
Switch the local on/off setting.
OFF ():
With this setting, controllers such as
the keyboard and modulation
wheel will be internally disconnected from the tone generator section.
This setting prevents notes from
being sounded in duplicate when a
sequencer is connected and the performance data is echoed back from
the sequencer. (Echo back is when
the performance data transmitted
by playing the microKORG is retransmitted back to the microKORG
from the sequencer.)
ON ():
Select this setting when you are using the microKORG by itself.
CLOCK [Internal, External, Auto]
Specifies how the microKORG will
synchronize with a connected external MIDI device (sequencer, rhythm
machine, etc.). If the LFO 1/2 or
DELAY "TEMPO SYNC" is ON, the
LFO rate and delay time will also
synchronize in the same way as the
arpeggiator.
Internal ():
The arpeggiator will be determined
by the internal clock (specified by
"TEMPO"). Select this setting if you
are using the microKORG by itself,
or if you are using the microKORG
as the master (controlling device) so
that an external MIDI device will
synchronize to the MIDI clock messages from the microKORG.
External ():
The microKORG's arpeggiator will
synchronize to the MIDI clock messages received from an external
MIDI device connected to the MIDI
IN connector.(➚)
(➘)
Auto ():
The microKORG will automatically
function using the External setting
if MIDI clock messages are being
received from an external MIDI device connected to the MIDI IN connector. Normally it will function using the Internal setting.
When making settings for synchronizing external MIDI devices, refer to the owner's manuals for the devices you are using.
51
Messages transmitted and received by the microKORG
❏ MIDI channels
MIDI uses sixteen channels (1-16). MIDI messages can be transmitted and received
when the channel of the receiving device matches the channel of the transmitting
device.
MIDI messages such as note-on/off and pitch bend are transmitted and received on
the MIDI channel specified by the MIDI "MIDI CH" setting.
❏ Note-on/off
Note-on [9n, kk, vv], Note-off [8n, kk, vv]
(n: channel, kk: note number, vv: velocity)
When you play the keyboard of the microKORG, note-on/off messages are
transmitted.The note-off velocity is transmitted at a fixed 64, but is not received.
If the GLOBAL "POSITION" is Post KBD (
), note-on/off messages will be
transmitted by the arpeggiator when it is running.
❏ Program change
Program change [Cn, pp]
(n: channel, pp: program number)
When you switch programs, a program change message with a program number for
the corresponding program 1–128 (A.11–b.88) will be transmitted. (➝Voice Name List)
If you want program changes to be transmitted and received, set the SHIFT function
"MIDI FILTER" to PROGRAM CHANGE Enable (
program change messages will not be transmitted or received.
The microKORG does not transmit or receive bank select messages ([Bn, 00, mm], [Bn,
20, bb]).
Octave Shift settings and note numbers
). If this is set to Disable (),
Middle C on a
piano is C4 (MIDI
note number 60)
❏ Pitch bend
Pitch bend change [En, bb, mm]
(n: channel, bb: lower digits of value, mm: upper digits of value)
When pitch bend change messages are received, a pitch bend will occur according to
the PITCH "BEND RANGE" value. Pitch bend can also be used in a Virtual Patch for a
synth program, or as an FC MOD modulation source for a vocoder program. In this
case, the message will act as a modulation source where mm=64, bb=00 will be 0
(center value) for the range of -127 - +127. (This message is received on the timbre
channel.)
When you move the PITCH wheel on the microKORG, pitch bend change messages
are transmitted on the MIDI channel("MIDI CH").
If you want pitch bend changes to be transmitted and received, set the SHIFT function
"MIDI FILTER" to PITCH BEND Enable (
). If this is set to Disable (), pitch
bend change messages will not be transmitted or received.
❏ Control changes
Control changes [Bn, cc, vv]
(n: channel, cc: control change no., vv: value)
When you use knobs 1 –5 to edit certain parameters, or when you operate certain keys
or the MOD wheel, the assigned control change will be transmitted. Conversely, when
control change numbers corresponding to the knob 1 –5 settings are received, the
corresponding controller or parameter will be controlled.
If you want control changes to be transmitted and received, set the SHIFT function
"MIDI FILTER" to CONTROL CHANGE Enable (
control change messages will not be transmitted or received.
). If this is set to Disable (),
52
C-1
(0)
C0
(12)
C1
(24)
-3 octaves
C2
(36)
-2 octaves
C3
(48)
-1 octave
C4
(60)
Octave Shift not used
C5
(72)
+1 octave
C6
(84)
+2 octaves
C7
(96)
+3 octaves
C8
(108)
C9
(120)G9(127)
C#8
(116)C9(120)
Messages transmitted and received by the microKORG
• Modulation depth (CC#01) [Bn, 01, vv]
When a modulation depth message is received, the LFO2 vibrato depth will change
according to the value specified for PITCH "VIBRATO INT." If the value of the
received message is the maximum value (127), vibrato will be applied over the full
pitch range specified by "VIBRATO INT." If the value of the received message is 0, no
vibrato will apply.
When you move the microKORG's MOD wheel, modulation depth messages are
transmitted on the MIDI channel ("MIDI CH").
• Volume (CC#07) [Bn, 07, vv]
If you assign control change (CC#07 – volume) to AMP "LEVEL," volume messages
can be received to control the volume.
• Panpot (CC#10) [Bn, 0A, vv]
If you assign control change (CC#10 – pan) to AMP "PANPOT," pan messages can be
received to control the stereo position of the sound.
Assigning control changes to knobs and keys
You can use the SHIFT function "CONTROL CHANGE" to assign a control change in the
range of CC#00–CC#95 to principal parameters that correspond to panel knobs and
keys. When you operate the assigned knob or key, the corresponding control change will
be transmitted. If the Performance Edit function is enabled, the control change for the
corresponding parameter will be transmitted.
When control changes are received from an external device, the microKORG will behave
according to the value of the control change, just as when the corresponding knob or key
is operated (➝p.56 "Control change assignments for the microKORG's knobs and keys").
In addition, when you use the front panel TIMBRE SELECT key to switch timbres, a
message (Timbre Select) indicating which timbre is selected will be transmitted. When
the microKORG receives a Timbre Select message, it will switch timbres according to the
value of the message. (0: Timbre 1, 1: Timbre 1&2 (Sync), 2–127: Timbre 2).
You can use the SHIFT function "CONTROL CHANGE" TimbSelect to assign a control
change to Timbre Select as well.
Sync control
The first-played note-on will sync a LFO whose "KEY SYNC" = Timbre().
However in order to distinguish manually played note-on/off's from those that are
repeated automatically by the arpeggiator, the microKORG's arpeggiator will transmit
a Sync Control message at the time of note-on (when GLOBAL "POSITION" is Post
KBD(
A control change message is used for this Sync Control message as specified by Shift
function "Control Change."
By using Sync Control to apply sync to a LFO, you can cause each arpeggiated note to
advance the random LFO by one step.
)).
Silencing all notes of a given channel
• All note off (CC#123) [Bn, 7B, 00] (value is 00)
When an All Note Off message is received, all currently-sounding notes of that
channel will be turned off. Some sound may linger due to the envelope settings.
• All sound off (CC#120) [Bn, 78, 00] (value is 00)
When an All Sound Off message is received, all notes currently sounding on that
channel will be silenced. While All Note Off allows the decay of a note to continue, the
All Sound Off will silence the sound immediately.
However, this message is intended for use in emergencies, and is not for use during a
performance.
Resetting all controllers of a given channel
• Reset all controllers (CC#121) [Bn, 79, 00] (value is 00)
When a Reset All Controllers message is received, all controller values currently
operating on that channel will be reset. Some parameters assigned using Virtual Patch
will not be reset.
❏ Parameters transmitted and received via NRPN
Front panel knobs and keys other than the controls listed above are assigned NRPN
(Non Registered Parameter No.). NRPN messages can be used freely by any musical
instrument manufacturer or model.
NRPN editing is performed using the following procedure.
1
2
Controlling the arpeggiator
When arpeggiator settings are modified by the front panel keys or knobs, the following
NRPN messages are transmitted. When these NRPN messages are received, the corresponding arpeggiator settings will change accordingly. These messages are transmitted
and received on the MIDI channel(“MIDI CH”). For the correspondence between the
values of the message and the values of the microKORG parameter, refer to the table.
• ON/OFF: [Bn, 63, 00, Bn, 62, 02, Bn, 06, mm]
• RANGE: [Bn, 63, 00, Bn, 62, 03, Bn, 06, mm]
• LATCH: [Bn, 63, 00, Bn, 62, 04, Bn, 06, mm]
• TYPE:[Bn, 63, 00, Bn, 62, 07, Bn, 06, mm]
• GATE:[Bn, 63, 00, Bn, 62, 0A, Bn, 06, mm]
Use NRPN MSB (CC#99) [Bn, 63, mm] and NRPN LSB (CC#98) [Bn, 62, rr] (n:
channel, mm, rr: parameter no. upper and lower bytes) to select the parameter.
Use data entry MSB (CC#6) [Bn, 06, mm] (n: channel, mm: parameter value) to specify
the value.
On the microKORG, only data entry MSB is used.
(n: channel, mm: parameter value)
53
Messages transmitted and received by the microKORG
Panel knobs and keys other than the arpeggiator transmit and receive the following
NRPN messages. These messages are transmitted and received on the MIDI channel
("MIDI CH"). For the correspondence between the values of the message and the
values of the microKORG parameter, refer to the table.
Messages transmitted and received by the microKORG
If you are transmitting these parameters between two microKORG units, set both
units to the same program settings.
•Use the SHIFT function "MIDI DATA DUMP" to select the data that you want to
❏ System exclusive messages
microKORG format
F0: exclusive status
42: Korg ID
3n: [n=0—F] MIDI channel
58: microKORG model ID (same as MS2000/MS2000R)
ff:function ID (type of message)
—
F7: end of exclusive
Universal system exclusive
System exclusive messages include a special category of messages whose purpose is
officially defined. These are called universal system exclusive messages.
Of these universal system exclusive messages, the microKORG supports Master
Volume and Master Fine Tuning.
Master volume [F0, 7F, nn, 04, 01, vv, mm, F7]
(vv: lower byte of value, mm: upper byte of value, [mm, vv=7F, 7F] is Max, [mm,
vv=00, 00] is 0)
When a Master Volume message is received, the microKORG will adjust its overall
volume.
If GLOBAL "AUDIO IN THRU" is ON, the input signal of AUDIO IN 1/2 will not be
affected by Master Volume.
Master fine tuning [F0, 7F, nn, 04, 03, vv, mm, F7]
(A value of 8192 [mm, vv=40, 00] is center (0 cent, A4=440.0Hz), 4096 [mm, vv=20,
00] is -50 cents, and 12288 [mm, vv=60, 00] is +50 cents.)
When master fine tuning is received, the value specified for the microKORG's
GLOBAL "MASTER TUNE" will be ignored, and the overall pitch will be specified by
the data that was received.
Transmitting sound settings etc. (Data Dump)
Program data and global data can be transmitted as a MIDI exclusive data. The action
of transmitting MIDI exclusive data to an external MIDI device is called a data dump.
By performing a data dump, you can store various types of data on an external MIDI
device, or rewrite the sounds or settings of a second microKORG.
Data dumps can be performed on the microKORG as follows.
•When a dump request is received from an external device, the microKORG will
If you want the microKORG to receive a data dump, turn the SHIFT function "WRITE
PROTECT" OFF (
Enable (
❏ Realtime Messages
Starting/stopping the arpeggiator
When the microKORG's arpeggiator is synchronized to a connected external MIDI
device, system realtime messages Start and Stop will control the arpeggiator.
Start [FA]
When a Start [FA] message is received, the arpeggiator will start from the pitch of the
first played note.
Stop [FC]
When a Stop [FC] message is received, the arpeggiator will stop. (It will not be turned
off; the arpeggiator will start again when additional notes are played.)
transmit (1PROG, PROG, GLOBAL, ALL), and dump the data.
1PROG will dump only the data of the selected program. When the microKORG
receives such a data dump, the settings of the currently selected program will be
rewritten by the data that was received.
In this case, the data will not be saved unless you perform the Write operation.
PROG will dump the data for all programs saved in memory.
GLOBAL will dump the global data (GLOBAL, MIDI, and some of the SHIFT function
settings ➝p.58).
ALL will dump all programs as well as global data.
If PROG, GLOBAL, or ALL dumps are received by the microKORG, the data will be
written directly into internal memory; you do not need to perform the Write
operation.
transmit the data dump that was requested.
), and set the MIDI FILTER setting "SYSTEM EXCLUSIVE" to
). If this is set to Disable (), data dumps can not be received.
If you wish to obtain the "MIDI Implementation" which includes details of the MIDI
exclusive format, please contact a Korg dealer.
The microKORG maintains data compatibility only for parameters that it shares with
the MS2000/MS2000R. This data can be exchanged via data dump. For details on the
compatible parameters, refer to "MIDI Implementation."
55
Messages transmitted and received by the microKORG
Front panel knob/key
control change
assignments
Control changes can be assigned to
each front panel knob/key of the
microKORG so that the changes in
sound as controlled by knob/key
operations can be transmitted as
performance data.
For details on assigning control
changes to the microKORG's
knobs and keys, refer to page 61.
Different parameters are
assigned to synth parameters
and vocoder parameters.
If you are using two
microKORG units to transmit
and receive these parameters,
you must set the transmitting
and receiving programs to the
same settings.
Messages transmitted and received by the microKORG
0...2–24
3...5–23
6, 7–22
8...10–21
11...13–20
14, 15–19
16...18–18
19, 20–17
21...23–16
24...26–15
27, 28–14
29...31–13
32, 33–12
34...36–11
37...39–10
40, 41–9
42...44–8
45...47–7
48, 49–6
50...52–5
53, 54–4
55...57–3
58...60–2
61, 62–1
63...650
Value
(transmitted, received)
OSC 2 Semitone
Value
(transmitted, received)
OSC 2 Semitone
66, 67+1
68...70+2
71...73+3
74, 75+4
76...78+5
79, 80+6
81...83+7
84...86+8
87, 88+9
89...91+10
92...94+11
95, 96+12
97...99+13
100, 101+14
102...104+15
105...107+16
108, 109+17
110...112+18
113, 114+19
115...117+20
118...120+21
121, 122+22
123...125+23
126, 127+24
Control 2 values when OSC 1 Wave = DWGS
When the synth parameter OSC 1 "WAVE" is set to DWGS, the "CONTROL 2" (knob 3 )
will select the DWGS waveform. The value of the control change transmitted/received
by operating the "CONTROL 2" (knob 3 ) corresponds to the parameter value as
follows.
The value of the control change transmitted/received by operating OSC 2
"SEMITONE" (knob 3 ) of a synth program corresponds to the parameter value as
follows.
"SYNC NOTE" value when LFO 1/2 or DELAY "TEMPO SYNC" = ON
If "TEMPO SYNC" is ON, the parameter that is set by the LFO 1/2 "FREQUENCY"
(knob 4 ) or the DELAY "DELAY TIME" (knob 3 ) will change to "SYNC NOTE." In this
case, the value of the control change message transmitted by knob operations (or
received) will correspond to the parameter value as shown below.
Value
(transmitted, received)
0...81/11/32
9...173/41/24
18...252/31/16
26...341/21/12
35...423/83/32
43...511/31/8
52...591/41/6
60...683/163/16
69...761/61/4
77...851/81/3
86...933/323/8
94...1021/121/2
103...1101/162/3
111...1191/243/4
120...1271/321/1
LFO Sync Note
DELAY Sync Note
57
Saving Data
1, 2
Saving your edited settings
If you have edited a program, your edited settings will be lost if you turn the power off or select
another program before saving (writing). If you want to use the edited program later, you must save
(write) it. Changes you make to the GLOBAL, MIDI, or SHIFT functions (described later in this
manual) will also be lost if you turn off the power before saving (writing). If you want to reuse the
modified settings, you must save them.
Never turn off the power while data is being written. Doing so may destroy the data.
○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Saving a program
Settings that will be saved
• All parameters VOICE–ARPEG.B
(FORMANT HOLD key on/off)
• ARPEGGIATOR ON/OFF key
• OCTAVE SHIFT UP, DOWN keys
Procedure
Press the WRITE key.
1
The currently selected program number
will blink in the display. The WRITE
key LED will also blink, and the SHIFT
key LED will light.
If the display blinks "" (Protect)
when you press the WRITE key, the
write protect setting is turned on, so
that programs cannot be written. Press
the SHIFT key to return to the normal
state, and turn write protect off.
(➝p.63)
If the display blinks "" (Global)
when you press the WRITE key, a
GLOBAL or MIDI parameter is
selected for saving. Press the SHIFT
key to return to the normal state, and
use the EDIT SELECT 1 or EDIT
SELECT 2 dial to select a position other
than GLOBAL or MIDI.
Select the program number where you
2
want to save the current program
settings.
58
Use the PROGRAM SELECT BANK
SIDE key, the PROGRAM SELECT
dial, and the PROGRAM NUMBER
keys to select the program number
where you want to save the current
program settings. The display will
indicate the save-destination number.
If you decide to cancel without saving,
press the lit SHIFT key.
Press the WRITE key once again to
3
save the data (execute the Write
operation).
The display will indicate "
the data will be written. Then the
microKORG will return to the normal
operating state.
Writing program data
1, 3222
," and
○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○
Saving GLOBAL, MIDI, and SHIFT function settings
Settings that will be saved (Global data)
• GLOBAL parameters other than AUDIO
IN THRU
• All MIDI parameters
• SHIFT functions
MIDI FILTER, CONTROL CHANGE,
WRITE PROTECT
Procedure
Press the WRITE key.
1
The display will blink "
WRITE key LED will blink, and the
SHIFT key LED will light.
If you decide to cancel without saving,
press the lit SHIFT key.
If a program number such as ""
blinks in the display when you press the
WRITE key, a program is selected for
saving. Press the SHIFT key to return to
the normal state, and turn the EDIT
SELECT 2 dial to the GLOBAL or MIDI
position.
Press the WRITE key once again to
2
save the data (execute the Write
operation).
The display will indicate "
the data will be written. Then the
microKORG will return to its normal
state.
," the
," and
Writing global data
SHIFT functions
1
1, 2
Copying and exchanging timbres
By holding down the SHIFT key and pressing the appropriate key, you can perform various utility functions.
While a SHIFT function is being used, the SYNTH and VOCODER LEDs will both light. If you press the litSHIFT key at this time, you will exit these functions and return to normal operation.
–SYNTH
/ Initializing a program
1-1. COPY TIMBRE ()
Copying a timbre
You can access this function only if a
synth program is selected.
Timbre settings from another pr ogram
will be copied to the timbre of the
currently selected program. In the case of
a Layer program, the settings of the
currently-edited timbre will be copied.
You cannot execute this function if a
vocoder program is selected as the
copy-source program (2). ("
Error)
Procedure
Hold down the SHIFT key and press
1
the 1 key.
The display will indicate "."
":
12
Turn knob 1 to select the copy-sour ce
2
program (A.11–B.88).
The 1 key will begin blinking.
If you decide to cancel this operation,
press the lit SHIFT key.
Press the blinking 1 key. The timbre
3
copy will be executed, and then the
microKORG will return to its normal
state.
If you have not selected a copy-source
program (2), the 1 key will remain lit.
If in this state you press the 1 key to
attempt to execute, the display will
indicate "
be executed.
," and the copy will not
2-1. SWAP TIMBRE ()
Exchanging timbres
You can access this function only if a
Layer synth program is selected.
This will exchange the settings of timbres
1 and 2 within the currently selected
program.
You cannot execute this if a Single
synth program is selected. (The display
will indicate "
Procedure
Hold down the SHIFT key and press
1
the 2 key.
The display will indicate "."
Press the blinking 2 key. The timbre
2
exchange will be executed, and then
the microKORG will return to its
normal state.
If you decide to cancel, press the lit
SHIFT key.
": Error.)
3-1. INIT PROGRAM ()
Initializing a program
This function initializes the settings of the
currently selected program.
If you execute this on a synth program, it
will be set as a Single program.
Procedure
Hold down the SHIFT key and press
1
the 3 key.
The display will indicate "
Press the blinking 3 key. The program
2
will be initialized, and then the
microKORG will return to its normal
state.
If you decide to cancel, press the lit
SHIFT key.
."
1
1, 3
1, 2
59
Initializing CH LEVEL and CH PAN –VOCODER
MIDI Filter
1-2. INIT LEVEL ()
Initializing CH LEVEL A/B
You can access this function if a vocoder
program is selected.
This will simultaneously initialize the
output levels of the eight band-pass filter
channels for the carrier (SYNTHESIS
FILTER). When you initialize the levels,
all output levels will be set to 127.
Procedure
Hold down the SHIFT key and press
1
the 1 key.
The display will indicate "
Press the blinking 1 key.
2
The output levels will be initialized,
and then the microKORG will return to
its normal state.
If you decide to cancel, press the lit
SHIFT key.
."
2-2. INIT PAN ()
Initializing CH PAN A/B
You can access this function if a vocoder
program is selected.
This will simultaneously initialize the pan
of the eight band-pass filter channels for
the carrier (SYNTHESIS FILTER). When
you initialize the pan settings, each filter
channel will be set to Center.
Procedure
1
2
1
Hold down the SHIFT key and press
the 2 key.
The display will indicate "
Press the blinking 2 key.
The pan settings will be initialized, and
then the microKORG will return to its
normal state.
If you decide to cancel, press the lit
SHIFT key.
."
1
4-1. MIDI FILTER ()
MIDI Filter
These settings specify whether the
corresponding types of MIDI data will be
received and transmitted.
Procedure
Hold down the SHIFT key and press
1
the 4 key.
The display will indicate "
Turn the appropriate knob 1–4 to make
2
the desired settings.
[1] knob: PROGRAM CHANGE
Selects whether program changes will
be transmitted and received.
Disable (
Program changes will not be transmitted or received.
Enable (
Program changes will be transmitted
and received.
[2] knob: CONTROL CHANGE
Selects whether MIDI control changes
will be transmitted and received.
Disable (
MIDI control changes will not be
transmitted or received.
):
):
):
."
1
Enable ():
MIDI control changes will be
transmitted and received.
[3] knob: PITCH BEND
Selects whether pitch bend messages
will be transmitted and received.
Disable (
Pitch bend messages will not be
transmitted or received.
Enable (
Pitch bend messages will be
transmitted and received.
[4] knob: SYSTEM EXCLUSIVE
Selects whether MIDI system
exclusive messages will be transmitted and received.
Disable (
MIDI system exclusive messages will
not be transmitted or received.
Enable (
MIDI system exclusive messages will
be transmitted and received.
When you have finished making
3
settings, press the lit 4 key or the
SHIFT key. The microKORG will
return to its normal state.
):
):
):
):
2
60
1, 2
1, 2
1, 3
5-1. CONTROL CHANGE ()
Assigning control changes
Assigning control changes
You can assign control change numbers to
the principal parameters accessed by the
EDIT SELECT 1 and 2 knobs and knobs
1–5.
When you operate a knob that corresponds to one of the parameters shown
below, the assigned control change will be
transmitted. If the microKORG receives
the assigned control change, the parameter value corresponding to that knob will
be adjusted.
The default settings of these parameters
are shown on page 56.
Procedure
Hold down the SHIFT key and press
1
the 5 key.
The display will indicate "
Turn the EDIT SELECT 1 or EDIT
2
."
SELECT 2 dial to select the section that
contains the parameter whose control
change you want to specify.
Turn each knob to select the desir ed
3
MIDI control change number (oFF,
C.00..C.95).
If the specified number is currently
assigned to another parameter, the last
decimal point "." in the display will
light.
When you have finished making
4
settings, press the lit 5 key or the
SHIFT key.
The microKORG will return to its
normal state.
The MIDI "MIDI CH" knobs 1 and 2
will select the control change number
for TIMBRE SELECT and SYNC CTRL.
1, 4
12
3
Parameters for which you can assign a control change
(TIMBRE SELECT)(SYNC CTRL)(SYNC CTRL)
61
6-1. MIDI DATA DUMP ()
Data dump
Data dump
"Data dump" is a function that transmits
program or global data in the form of
MIDI exclusive data, so that it can be
saved on a connected MIDI data filer or
computer. This can also be used to
transmit data to another microKORG
unit.
Do not touch the knobs or keyboard of
the microKORG while data is being
transmitted or received. Also, never
turn the power off during this time.
Some USB-MIDI interface devices may
not be able to transmit/receive the
microKORG's MIDI exclusive
messages.
Transmission procedure
Connect the microKORG's MIDI OUT
1
connector to the MIDI IN connector of
a device that is able to receive a MIDI
data dump, and set both devices to the
same MIDI channel.
Hold down the SHIFT key and press
2
the 6 key.
The display will indicate "
."
23
Turn the 1 knob to select the type of
3
data dump that will be transmitted.
1Program (
Data for the currently selected program
will be transmitted.
Program (
Data for all programs will be
transmitted.
Global ():
Global data will be transmitted.
(→p.58)
All (
All programs and global data will be
transmitted.
The 6 key will begin blinking.
If you decide to cancel, press the lit
SHIFT key.
Press the blinking 6 key.
4
The data dump will be executed, and
then the microKORG will return to its
normal state.
If you did not select a data dump to be
transmitted, the 6 key will remain lit. If
you attempt to transmit by pressing
):
):
):
the 6 key in this state, the display will
indicate "---" and the data dump will
not be executed.
For the size of the dumped data and the
time required for each, refer to table s6-
1.
Reception procedure
Use the following procedure when you
want to return previously-saved data
from a connected MIDI data filer or
computer back to the microKORG, or to
receive data from another microKORG
unit.
Connect the microKORG's MIDI IN
1
connector to the MIDI OUT connector
of the device that will transmit the
MIDI dump data.
Set the MIDI channel of the transmit-
2
ting device to match the microKORG's
MIDI channel. If you previously
transmitted data to an external MIDI
device and want to receive it into the
microKORG, set the microKORG's
MIDI channel to the same setting as
when it originally transmitted the data.
Set the SHIFT function MIDI FILTER
3
"SYSTEM EXCLUSIVE" to Enable.
(➝p.60)
Turn "WRITE PROTECT" OFF (➝p.63).
Transmit the data from the MIDI data
4
filer or other device. For the transmission procedure, refer to the manual of
the device you are using.
table s6-1
Data to dump Data size (Bytes) Time required (Seconds)
1Program291Less than one second
Program37,157approximately 15
Global229Less than one second
All37,386approximately 15
62
2, 4
Restoring the factory settings
Write protect setting
7-1. PRELOAD ()
Restoring the factory settings
This operation restores the microKORG's
programs and global data settings to the
factory-set condition. The factory-set
settings are referred to as the "preload
data."
When you restore the Preload settings,
the data within the microKORG will be
rewritten to the factory settings. Be
sure that you don’t mind losing your
current data before you restore the
factory settings.
Do not touch the microKORG's knobs
or keyboard while the Preload
operation is being executed, and never
turn the power off.
Preload cannot be executed if the
SHIFT function "WRITE PROTECT is
on. You must turn "WRITE PROTECT"
off beforehand.
Procedure
Hold down the SHIFT key and press
1
the 7 key.
The display will indicate "."
Turn the 1 knob to select the data that
2
will be restored to its factory-set
condition.
1Program (
Load only data for one program.
Program (
Load data for all programs (128
programs).
Global (
Load global data. (→p.58)
To cancel, press the lit SHIFT key.
If you selected 1Program () in step
3
2
, turn knob 2 to select the program
(A.11–b.88) that will be restored to its
factory-set condition.
ress the blinking 7 key. The Preload
4
operation will be executed, and the
microKORG will return to its normal
state.
If you have not selected the data to be
restored to the factory-set condition
2
(steps
you attempt to execute by pressing the
7 key in this state, the display will
indicate "---" and the operation will not
be executed.
):
):
):
or 3), the 7 key will be lit. If
8-1. WRITE PROTECT ()
Write protect setting
The microKORG provides a write protect
setting that disables writing to memory,
letting you prevent data from being
rewritten accidentally. If you want to save
data that you have edited, you must first
turn write protect off.
Procedure
Hold down the SHIFT key and press
1
the 8 key.
The display will indicate "
Turn the 1 knob to switch write pr otect
2
on/off.
OFF (
Data can be written to internal memory.
ON (
The following writing operations will
be prohibited.
• Writing a program
• Loading the factory data
• Receiving a data dump
):
):
."
When you have made the desired
3
setting, press the lit 8 key or SHIFT
key. The microKORG will return to its
normal state.
123
1, 4
12
1, 3
63
Other SHIFT key functions
TIMBRE SOLO
Timbre solo function
•Hold down the SHIFT key and press
the TIMBRE SELECT key.
If a Layer synth program is selected,
only one timbre will sound. (➝p.14)
SWITCH EDIT SELECT
Switch between EDIT SELECT 1/2
•Hold down the SHIFT key and press
the BANK SIDE key.
The object of editing will switch from
EDIT SELECT 1 to 2, or from 2 to 1.
(➝p.12)
INC/DEC PARAM VALUE
Increment or decrement the parameter
value
RETURN PARAM VALUE (Compare)
Return to the value at the time the
parameter was selected (Compare)
While editing a parameter (i.e., when
1
the parameter value is shown in the
display), hold down the SHIFT key
and press the OCTAVE SHIFT UP or
DOWN key.
The corresponding LED will light red.
In this state, pressing the UP key will
2
increment the currently-edited
parameter value by one step, and
pressing the DOWN key will
decrement the value by one step.
If you simultaneously press the UP and
DOWN keys, the value will return to
the setting it had when you selected
that parameter (the Compare function).
To exit, press the SHIFT key.
3
ENTER DEMO MODE
Enter demo mode
•When you hold down the SHIFT key
and press the ARPEGGIATOR ON/OFF key, the microKORG will enter
Demo mode. (➝p.7)
64
Appendix
LFO 1/2 and delay time synchronization
Synchronizing the LFO 1/2 rate or the delay time of the delay
effect to the arpeggiator tempo
You can synchronize the LFO 1/2 rate or the delay time of the delay effect to the
arpeggiator tempo. (When "TEMPO SYNC"=ON)
Example 1. LFO1
LFO1 "TEMPO SYNC" (knob 3): ON
LFO1 "SYNC NOTE (knob 4): 1/4 (1.4)
In this case, one LFO cycle will occupy the same time as one quarter note.
Triangle
Example 2. Delay time
DELAY "TYPE" (knob 1): Cross Delay
DELAY "TEMPO SYNC" (knob 2): ON
DELAY "SYNC NOTE" (knob 3): 1/8 (1.8)
In this case, the delay time will be set to a time interval of an eighth note, and will
alternate between left and right channels.
DryWet
Lch
Wet
Rch
Cross Delay
How "SYNC NOTE" and "RESOLUTION" settings correspond to note values
The following table shows how LFO or DELAY "SYNC NOTE" settings and ARPEG.A
"RESOLUTION" settings correspond to note values.
The parameters will function according to the tempo specified by ARPEG.A "TEMPO" and
the note value corresponding to its setting.
Note
LFO, DELAY “SYNC NOTE”
Value
1/32
1/24
1/16
1/12
3/32
1/8
1/6
3/16
1/4
1/3
3/8
1/2
2/3
3/4
1/1
ARPEGGIO “RESOLUTION”
1/24
1/16
1/12
1/8
1/6
1/4
65
Troubleshooting
Before you suspect a malfunction, please check the following points.
Power does not turn on
❏ Is the AC adaptor connected to an AC outlet? ➝p.6
❏ Is the POWER switch turned on (pressed inward)? ➝p.6
❏ If you are using batteries, are batteries installed? Have the batteries run down?
➝p.6
No sound
❏ If your powered monitor system or headphones connected to the correct
jack(s)? ➝p.5
❏ Is the connected monitor system powered-on, and is the volume raised?
❏ Is the VOLUME knob set to a position where sound will be output? →p.6
❏ Is the MIDI "LOCAL" setting turned ON? →p.51
❏ Were any volume-related parameters set to a value of 0? →p.23, 27, 34, 37
❏ Was the FILTER "CUTOFF" set to 0? →p.24
❏ Did you turn the FORMANT HOLD key on ("E.F. SENSE" HOLD) while there
was no input to AUDIO IN 1? ➝p.10, 35
Can’t input sound
❏ Is the input source connected to the AUDIO IN 1 CONDENSOR jack or
DYNAMIC jack, or to the AUDIO IN 2 LINE jack? ➝p.10, 21, 34
❏ If you are inputting to AUDIO IN 1 or AUDIO IN 2, is the VOLUME 1 or
VOLUME 2 knob turned up? ➝p.10, 21, 34
❏ If you are inputting to AUDIO IN 1, is the MIC/LINE switch set appropriately?
➝p.4
❏ If using a vocoder program, have you connected the modulator audio source to
the AUDIO IN 1 CONDENSER jack or DYNAMIC jack? ➝p.10
❏ If you have connected an input device to the AUDIO IN 1 CONDENSER jack and
also to the DYNAMIC jack, the input from the CONDENSER jack will take
priority, and no signal can be input from the DYNAMIC jack. ➝p.4
Can't edit
❏ If the display does not switch to the parameter indication when you turn the
edit control knobs 1–5, Performance Edit may be active. ➝p.8, 12
❏ If you are unable to use the edit control knobs 1–5 to edit the parameter value,
did you remember to turn the knob to a position that matches the displayed
value? ➝p.13
66
❏ If you are unable to edit timbre 2 of a synth program, has VOICE "SINGLE/
LAYER" been set to LAYER? ➝p.14, 16
❏ If you are unable to edit timbre 1 or 2 of a synth program, is the TIMBRE SELECT
1/2 LED lit for the timbre you want to edit? ➝p.14
❏ If the changes you made to a program or to the global settings have not been
remembered, did you turn the power off before executing the Write operation? In
the case of a program, your edits will also be lost if you select a different program.
Execute the Write operation to save your edits befor e you switch pr ograms or turn
off the power . ➝p.58
Can't write programs or global settings
❏ Is Shift function “MEMORY PROTECT” turned OFF? →p.63
❏ If an edited program or edited GLOBAL, MIDI, or SHIFT settings you thought
you had saved have not actually been saved, did you set the EDIT SELECT 1 or
EDIT SELECT 2 knob to one of the VOICE–ARPEG.B position when you
attempted to save the program, or to the GLOBAL or MIDI position when you
attempted to save the global data? ➝p.58
Arpeggios do not start
❏ Is the arpeggiator turned on (ON/OFF key lit)? →p.11
❏ Is the MIDI "CLOCK" setting correct? ➝p.51
No response to MIDI messages sent from an external device
❏ Is the MIDI cable connected correctly? →p.48
❏ Does the MIDI channel of the data transmitted from the external MIDI device
match the MIDI channel of the microKORG? →p.49
Does not respond correctly to MIDI messages sent from an external device
❏ Is the SHIFT function "MIDI FILTER" for that type of MIDI message set to Enable?
➝p.60
Transpose, velocity cur ve, and arpeggiator data is not recognized correctly
❏ Is Global "POSITION" set appropriately? →p.47
Can't control two timbres on separate MIDI channels
❏ The microKORG uses only one MIDI channel to transmit and receive. You cannot
use two MIDI channels to play the two timbres independently.
Specifications and options
Tone generator system: Analog modeling synthesis system
• Synth programs:
Number of timbres:maximum 2 (when using Layer)
Maximum polyphony: 4 voices
Structure:2 oscillators + noise generator: sawtooth wave, square wave,
triangle wave, sine wave, Vox wave, DWGS x 64, Noise, Audio
In (8 types)
PWM function, OSC Sync function, Ring Mod. function, OSC
Sync + Ring Mod. function
Multimode filters: -24 dB/oct LPF, -12 dB/oct LPF, -12 dB/oct
BPF, -12 dB/oct HPF (4 types)
Filter EG, Amp EG, LFO1, LFO2 (LFO: six waveforms,
synchronizable to arpeggiator or external MIDI clock)
• Vocoder programs:
Maximum polyphony: 4 voices
Structure:8 channel vocoder, adjustable level and pan for each channel,
Formant Shift function
1 oscillator + noise generator (8 types)
Filter EG, Amp EG, LFO1, LFO2, (LFO: six waveforms,
synchronizable to arpeggiator or external MIDI clock)
Connector1/4" phone jack (unbalanced)
Input impedance:39 [kΩ]
Maximum input level-3.5 [dBu] (VOLUME 2: Max)
Input impedance:600 [Ω]
Outputs
• L/MONO, R jacks
Output impedance:1.1 [kΩ] (MONO: 550Ω)
Maximum output level:+0.0 [dBu] or more
Load impedance:100 [kΩ]
• Headphone jack
Output impedance:10 [Ω]
Maximum output level:35 [mW]
Load impedance:33 [Ω]
MIDI:IN, OUT, THRU connectors
Display:3-digit x 1 line eight-segment LED
Power supply: when using AC adaptor: DC9V, 6.5 W
when using batteries: six AA batteries, 9 V
Battery life:approximately 4 hours or more
(when using alkaline batteries)
Dimensions:524 x 232 x 70 mm / Inches: 20.63" x 9.13" x 2.76" (W x D x H)
Weight:2.2kg / 4.85 lbs. (without batteries and included microphone)
Included items:condenser microphone, AC adaptor (DC9V)
*Appearance and specifications of this product are subject to change without
notice.
67
Index
Symbols
-12dB BPF 25
-12dB HPF 25
-12dB LPF 24
-24dB LPF 24
A
AC adaptor 6
ADSR 26, 28
Amp 15, 27
AMP EG 28
Analog modeling system 1
ANALYSIS FILTER 31
Arpeggiator 11, 43, 50, 53
Arpeggio type 44
Assigning control changes 61
Attack time 9
Audio in 21
This product has been manufactured according to strict specifications and voltage requirements that are
applicable in the country in which it is intended that this product should be used. If you have purchased this
product via the internet, through mail order, and/or via a telephone sale, you must verify that this product is
intended to be used in the country in which you reside.
WARNING: Use of this product in any country other than that for which it is intended could be dangerous and
could invalidate the manufacturer's or distr ibutor's warranty.
Please also retain your receipt as proof of purchase otherwise your product may be disqualified from the
manufacturer's or distributor's warranty.
2002 KORG INC.
KORG INC.
15-12, Shimotakaido 1-chome, Suginami-ku, Tokyo, Japan