Korg MICROXLPLUS User manual
1
E
Precautions
Location
Using the unit in the following locations can result in a
malfunction.
• In direct sunlight
• Locations of extreme temperature or humidity
• Excessively dusty or dirty locations
• Locations of excessive vibration
• 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 USA)
NOTE: 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.
If items such as cables are included with this equipment,
you must use those included items. Unauthorized changes
or modification to this system can void the user’s authority
to operate this equipment.
Notice regarding disposal (EU only)
When this “crossed-out wheeled bin” symbol is
displayed on the product, owner’s manual, battery, or battery package, it signifies that when you
wish to dispose of this product, manual, package
or battery you must do so in an approved manner.
Do not discard this product, manual, package or
battery along with ordinary household waste. Dis-
posing in the correct manner will prevent harm to
human health and potential damage to the environment.
Since the correct method of disposal will depend on the
applicable laws and regulations in your locality, please contact your local administrative body for details. If the battery
contains heavy metals in excess of the regulated amount,
a chemical symbol is displayed below the “crossed-out
wheeled bin” symbol on the battery or battery package.
Data handling
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.
* All product names and company names are the trademarks
or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction ........................................... 5
1. Main features..................................................... 5
2. Front and rear panels ....................................... 6
Front panel ................................................................................................. 6
Rear panel.................................................................................................. 8
Preparations........................................... 9
1. Connections ...................................................... 9
2. Turning the power on ..................................... 10
Before you turn on the power ................................................................... 10
Turning the power on ............................................................................... 10
Turning the power off ............................................................................... 11
Auto power off function ............................................................................ 11
Quick start ............................................ 12
4. Playing arpeggios............................................18
Using the arpeggiator ............................................................................... 18
Editing the sound................................... 19
1. How a program is organized ..........................19
Synthesizer...............................................................................................19
Vocoder .................................................................................................... 21
2. Basic editing procedure..................................22
Editing a program ..................................................................................... 22
3. Full Edit mode..................................................23
Editing in Full Edit mode...........................................................................23
Editing the two timbres ............................................................................. 24
Editing the vocoder...................................................................................25
Processing an external audio input .......................................................... 25
Editing the arpeggiator ............................................................................. 26
4. About the Global settings...............................27
5. Other functions................................................28
Initializing a program ................................................................................ 28
Copying a timbre ...................................................................................... 28
Transmitting programs and other data (Data Dump)................................ 28
Restoring the factory settings ................................................................... 29
1. Demo performance ......................................... 12
Listening to the demo............................................................................... 12
2. Selecting and playing a program .................. 12
Playing a synthesizer program................................................................. 12
Playing a vocoder program ...................................................................... 13
3. Modifying the sound....................................... 14
Using the controllers ................................................................................ 14
Using the keyboard to modify the sound .................................................. 14
Using the knobs to modify the sound ....................................................... 16
Saving (Writing)..................................... 31
1. Saving the settings you’ve edited..................31
Saving a program ..................................................................................... 31
Saving global data.................................................................................... 31
Parameter Guide.................................... 32
1. Timbre parameters ..........................................32
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microKORG XL+
2. Arpeggio parameters...................................... 51
Front Panel Arpeggio Parameters............................................................ 51
3. Edit utility parameters .................................... 54
4. Vocoder parameters ....................................... 54
Front panel vocoder parameters .............................................................. 54
5. Global parameters .......................................... 57
6. MIDI parameters .............................................. 59
7. Global utility parameters ................................ 62
Effect guide .......................................... 63
1. About the effects............................................. 63
About the effect input and output ............................................................. 63
Controlling effect parameters ................................................................... 63
About the delay time ................................................................................ 64
2. Effect Parameters ........................................... 65
MIDI ..................................................... 80
1. Using the microKORG XL+ with other MIDI
devices (MIDI).................................................. 80
Connecting MIDI devices/computers ....................................................... 80
MIDI-related settings ................................................................................ 81
2. MIDI messages ................................................ 83
MIDI channels .......................................................................................... 83
Note-on/off ............................................................................................... 83
Program change, Bank select .................................................................. 84
Pitch bend ................................................................................................ 84
Control changes ....................................................................................... 84
3. Parameters transmitted and received via NRPN
..........................................................................86
Controlling the arpeggiator ....................................................................... 86
Controlling the Timbre parameters ........................................................... 87
Controlling the vocoder parameters ......................................................... 88
Other controls........................................................................................... 89
System exclusive messages .................................................................... 89
Realtime Messages.................................................................................. 89
4. Front panel knob/button control change
assignments.....................................................90
Appendices............................................ 94
1. Trouble shooting .............................................94
2. Program List ....................................................96
3. Demo Song.......................................................98
4. Specifications ..................................................99
5. Index ...............................................................100
4
Introduction
Introduction
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Korg microKORG XL+ Synthesizer /
Vocoder. In order to take full advantage of your new instrument, please
read this manual carefully and use the product as directed.
1. Main features
1. Synthesizer functionality featuring MMT analog modeling
The microKORG XL+ provides a broad range of oscillator algorithms,
including the sawtooth waves and square waves typical of analog synthesizers, as well as formant waveforms, noise, and PCM/DWGS waveforms.
Based on these oscillator algorithms, you can produce a wide variety of
tonal variations by applying simple operations.
2. Performance editing with three knobs
By turning three knobs to control parameters such as filter cutoff, resonance, and amp EG attack, you can vary the sound in an intuitive manner.
Full Edit mode allows you to edit all of the microKORG XL+’s parameters.
3. Vocoder functionality
The microKORG XL+ comes equipped with a vocoder function that will let
you use your voice via a mic to process the sound of the oscillator, producing the impression that the instrument is “talking.”
The vocoder consists of sixteen filter bands, which are able to create original vocoder sounds by shifting the filter frequencies or adjusting the level
and pan of each band, as well as simulating the classic sounds of vintage
vocoders.
4. 128 internal programs
The microKORG XL+ contains a total of 128 programs, organized into two
banks (A and B,) Each bank contains eight genres, such as 70’ Vintage and
Rock and eight categories in each genre.
5. Modify external audio input
The sound of an instrument or other audio source received at the AUDIO IN
jack can be processed in the same way as the internal waveforms.
6. Virtual Patch functionality
Controllers such as EG, LFO, keyboard tracking, and the wheels can be virtually connected to parameters such as pitch or cutoff, allowing you to modulate these parameters and create sounds with a high degree of freedom.
7. Equalizer and effects add a final polish to your sounds
Each timbre provides a two-band equalizer for additional sound-creating
potential.
There are also two master effects for each program, allowing you to add
final touches to your sound. You can choose one of seventeen types for
each effect.
8. Step Arpeggiator
The built-in step arpeggiator can automatically generate an arpeggio when
you hold down a chord.
You can choose from six types of arpeggio, and specify the duration and
interval of the arpeggiated notes. Notes can also be individually switched
on/off for up to eight steps, allowing you to vary the rhythm for an even
wider range of possibilities.
9. Sound editor software
By using a USB cable to connect the microKORG XL+ to your computer
and using the sound editor software, you can edit all parameters from your
computer. You can download the sound editor free of charge from the Korg
website.
http://www.korg.com/
http://www.korg.co.jp/English/Distributors/
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microKORG XL+
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2. Front and rear panels
Front panel
1. [VOLUME] knob
This adjusts the volume of the OUTPUT jacks (L/MONO, R) and headphone jack.
2. [TEMPO] knob
This adjusts the tempo (speed) of the arpeggiator, LFO, or delay effect. The
LED above the knob will blink in synchronization with the tempo.
3. [OCTAVE] lever
This shifts the range of notes assigned to the keyboard upward or downward in one-octave steps over a range of 3 octaves. ( p. 15)
NOTE
If you want to make fine changes to this setting, you can hold down the
[EXIT/SHIFT] button and use the OCTAVE lever to change the value in
steps of one.
6
4. [BANK SELECT] lever
This selects the program bank.
5. [PROGRAM GENRE] dial
This dial selects the genre of program.
6. [PROGRAM CATEGORY] dial
This dial selects the category of program.
7. [ARP ON] (DEMO) button
This turns the arpeggiator on/off ( p. 18). (When on, the LED above the
button will be lit.)
If you hold down the [EXIT/SHIFT] button and press this button, a demo
song will play. ( p. 12)
Introduction
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Introduction
8. [VOCODER] (AUDIO IN THRU) button
This turns the vocoder on/off ( p. 13). (When on, the LED above the but-
ton will be lit.)
By holding down the [EXIT/SHIFT] button and pressing this button, you can
switch the AUDIO IN THRU setting ( p. 13).
9. [WRITE] button
Press this button to save a program or global settings you’ve edited
( p. 31).
10. [EXIT/SHIFT] button
Press this button to stop a Save or Utility operation.
By pressing this button in conjunction with another button, you can play a
demo or switch the AUDIO IN THRU setting.
11. [TIMBRE SELECT] lever
Use this to select the timbre that you want to edit ( p. 22).
The selected timbre is indicated by the lit LED beside this lever.
NOTE
If the COMMON page setting “VOIC.MODE” is “SINGLE,” the [TIMBRE
SELECT] lever does nothing.
12. [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial
This dial selects the function of knobs [1], [2], and [3].
If the dial is set to ASSIGN, FILTER, AMP EG, or ARP, the timbre selected
by the [TIMBRE SELECT] lever will be the target of your editing, and you’ll
be able to use the performance edit functions ( p. 22).
If the dial is set to EFFECT, performance editing will control the dry/wet balance for FX1 and FX2 and the parameter that’s assigned to Control 1 of
FX1.
If the dial is set to FULL EDIT, the knobs will operate in full edit mode,
allowing you to select a page and parameter, and to edit the value of that
parameter ( p. 23).
13. [1], [2], [3] knobs
Use these knobs for performance editing and in full edit mode to select the
page, parameter, and parameter value.
14. ORIGINAL VALUE LED
This LED will light when the value of the parameter you’re editing matches
the value stored in the program.
15. Display
Information on the selected program is shown here. In full edit mode, the
display shows the selected page, the current value of the parameter, various messages, or other information.
a: Battery empty indicator
b: Edit indicator
c: This will appear when the position of the [PROGRAM GENRE] dial,
[PROGRAM CATEGORY] dial, or [BANK SELECT] lever no longer
matches the actual program number, such as when a MIDI program
change message has been received.
d: Global indicator
e: When “KNOB MODE” is CATCH, this indicates the direction of the actual
value relative to the knob position.
f: Level meter
g, h: These areas display program information, or indicate the parameter or
parameter.
i: Cursor
16. [PITCH] wheel
This controls the pitch.
17. [MOD] wheel
This controls the depth of modulation.
18. AUDIO IN [MIC] (XLR) jack
You can connect a mic here.
If you want to use a mic connected to this jack, set the rear panel [XLR/
LINE] switch to the “XLR” position. Use the rear panel AUDIO IN [LEVEL]
knob to adjust the level.
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microKORG XL+
Rear panel
6789 1345 2
1. [HEADPHONES] jack
You can connect headphones to this jack (stereo 1/4").
2. OUTPUT [L/MONO], [R] jacks
You can connect powered monitors, a stereo amp, mixer, or multi-track
recorder to these jacks.
If you’re using a monaural connection, connect the [L/MONO] jack.
3. AUDIO IN [LINE] jack
This is a monaural audio input jack. Use the AUDIO IN [LEVEL] knob to
adjust the level.
For a synth program, you can connect another synthesizer or audio device
to this jack and use the input audio as the oscillator 1 waveform.
For a vocoder program, you can use the input audio as the modulator signal.
4. AUDIO IN [XLR/LINE] switch
Set this to the “LINE” position if you’re using the AUDIO IN [LINE] jack on
the rear panel, or to the “XLR” position if you’re using the AUDIO IN [MIC]
jack on the front panel.
5. AUDIO IN [LEVEL] knob
This adjusts the input level from the AUDIO IN [MIC] or [LINE] jacks.
6. MIDI
These connectors allow the microKORG XL+ to exchange MIDI messages
with an external MIDI device.
8
[MIDI IN] connector
This connector receives MIDI data.
[MIDI OUT] connector
This connector transmits MIDI data.
7. [USB] connector
This connector allows the microKORG XL+ to exchange MIDI messages
with your computer. You can also use sound editor software to edit the
microKORG XL+’s parameters.
NOTE
In order to use a USB connection, you’ll need to install the Korg USBMIDI driver in your computer. Download the “Korg USB-MIDI driver” from
the Korg website, and install it as described in the accompanying documentation.
NOTE
You can download the sound editor software from the Korg website.
8. Power switch
This turns the power on/off.
9. [DC 9V] connector
Connect the included AC adapter here.
Connect the AC adapter to the microKORG XL+ before you plug it into an
AC outlet.
Preparations
MIDI IN
MIDI OUT
USB
MicMic
Computer
connect AC adaptor (included)
to electrical outlet
Monitor speakers
(amplified)
Headphones
MIDI keyboard, sound module,
rhythm machine, etc.
Preparations
Preparations
1. Connections
The illustration below shows a typical example of connections for the
microKORG XL+. Connect your equipment as appropriate for your needs.
Connect your monitor amp or mixer to the output jacks
Connect the microKORG XL+’s OUTPUT [L/MONO], [R] jacks to the input
jacks of your mixer or powered monitor speakers. If you make connections
in monaural, use the [L/MONO] jack.
NOTE
We recommend that you output in stereo to take full advantage of the
croKORG XL+
’s sound.
Connect your mic or sampler to the input jack
If you’re using the microKORG XL+ as a vocoder, connect the mic to the
AUDIO IN [MIC] jack so that the mic audio can be used as a modulator
( p. 21).
If you’re using the microKORG XL+ to process the sound of a synthesizer
or sampler, connect the output of your external device to the microKORG
XL+’s AUDIO IN [LINE] jack.
NOTE
The AUDIO IN [LINE] jack is monaural.
Connecting the included mic
The microKORG XL+ comes with a mic for use with the vocoder.
If you want to connect the included mic, plug it into the front panel AUDIO
IN [MIC] jack. To disconnect it, grasp the base of the mic and pull it out.
Do not use excessive force when connecting o
mic.
Do not apply excessive force to the mic’s gooseneck, or repeatedly
bend it more than necessary. Doing so may cause broken wires or
other malfunctio
If you’ve connected a mic to the microKORG XL+’s front panel AUDIO IN
[MIC] jack, set the AUDIO IN [XLR/LINE] switch to “XLR.”
Be careful of the mic output level when connecting a mic.
ns.
r disconnecting the
mi-
You must make connections with the power turned off. Failure to
observe this precaution may cause malfunctio
speaker system.
ns or damage to your
Connecting MIDI equipment or a computer to the MIDI connectors or
USB connector
If you want to use the microKORG XL+’s keyboard and controllers to control an external MIDI device, or if you want to use another MIDI keyboard or
a sequencer to play the microKORG XL+’s sound generator, then use
USB/MIDI or the onboard MIDI connections.( p. 80 “1.Using the micro-
KORG XL+ with other MIDI devices (MIDI)”).
9
microKORG XL+
4. Close the battery cover.
2. Turning the power on
Before you turn on the power
Make sure that the power switch is off before you connect the power supply.
Connecting the AC adapter
1. Make sure that the microKORG XL+ is powered-off.
2. Conn
3. Plug the AC adapter into an AC outlet.
Using batteries
Installing/replacing the batteries
1. Make sure that the microKORG XL+ is powered-off.
2. O
3. Inser
ect the included AC adapter to the DC9V jack located
on the rear panel.
Use only the included AC adapter. Using any other AC adapter may
cause malfunctions.
Use an AC outlet of the correct voltage.
The microKORG XL+ can also operate on batteries.
NOTE
Batteries are not included. You’ll need to purchase them separately.
pen the battery cover located on the bottom of the micro-
KORG XL+.
t six AA alkaline batteries (sold separately).
About the battery empty indicator
When the battery capacity runs down, the “ ” indicator will appear on
the display. If you continue to use the unit in this state, the indicator will
begin blinking, and the Write Protect setting will automatically be enabled,
making it impossible to save programs or global settings. We recommend
that you replace the batteries as soon as possible, or use the AC adapter.
If you are in the middle of editing when this state occurs, and need to save
the changes you’ve made, you’ll need to connect the AC adapter so that
you can execute the Write operation.
Depleted batteries should be immediately removed from the mi
KORG XL+.
functions (such as leakage of the batter
also remove the batteries if you won
for an extended period of time.
Leaving depleted batteries installed may cause mal-
y electrolyte). You should
’t be using the microKORG XL+
Turning the power on
Before you power-on the microKORG XL+, you must power-off any
external output device such as your powered monitor speakers.
1. Turn the microKORG XL+’s [VOLUME] knob all the way to
the left.
ess the power switch to turn on the power.
2. Pr
The display will indicate the program number and program name.
3. Lower the volume of your powered monitors or other exter-
nal output equipment.
urn the microKORG XL+’s [VOLUME] knob to an appro-
4. T
priate position.
just the volume of your external output equipment.
5. Ad
cro-
10
Make sure that the batteries are oriented correctly.
Preparations
Turning the power off
After completing any necessary operations such as saving your edited program, turn off the power using the following procedure.
Never turn off the power while data is bein
ing the Write operation). Doing so may destroy internal data.
g saved (i.e., while execut-
1. Lower the volume of your powered monitor speakers or
other external output device, and then turn off their power.
urn the [VOLUME] knob of the microKORG XL+ all the
2. T
way toward the left, and then press and hold down the
power switch until the display indicates that you can safely
turn off the power.
Auto power off function
If there is no user input for approx. 4 hours the auto power off function,
which automatically turns off the microKORG XL+, will be activated.
This function can be disabled so that the microKORG XL+ is not automatically turned off.
NOTE
With the factory settings, the auto power off function is enabled.
When the microKORG XL+ is turned off, any edited settings will be
lost. If you want To use the settings again, be sure to save (write)
them first.
Preparations
Changing the auto power off setting
1. Use the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to select “FULL
EDIT.”
e knob [1] to select the GLOBAL page, use knob [2] to
2. Us
select “A.PWR.OFF,” and then use knob [3] to change the
setting.
If you do not want the microKORG XL+ to automatically be turned off with
the auto power off function, select “DISABLE.”
3. Save the setting. (→p. 31 “Saving global data”)
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microKORG XL+
1
1 3
2
Quick start
1. Demo performance
Listening to the demo
The microKORG XL+ contains demo songs that show off its sounds
( p. 98 “3.Demo Song”).
1. Hold down the [EXIT/SHIFT] button and press the [ARP ON]
button.
The demo performance will begin.
2. You can use the [1] knob to switch songs during the demo.
3. Pr
ess the [EXIT/SHIFT] button to end the demo perfor-
mance.
2. Selecting and playing a program
Playing a synthesizer program
The microKORG XL+ contains 128 programs that you can play immediately.
To select a program, you’ll use the panel PROGRAM GENRE dial, PROGRAM CATEGORY dial, and BANK SELECT lever.
You are free to select the sound according to its musical style (Program
Genre) or by its musical role (Program Category)—simply start with the dial
that you find most convenient.
Try out the various programs and listen to the sounds that they offer.
As an example, here’s how to select a sound from the BASS category for
use in a song in the ROCK genre.
1. Turn the [PROGRAM GENRE] dial to “ROCK”.
2. T
urn the [PROGRAM CATEGORY] dial to “BASS.”
The display will indicate the name of the selected program.
NOTE
The program will change when you switch the bank or number.
3. Play the keyboard to hear the sound.
You can use the [OCTAVE] lever to change the assigned pitch range.
( p. 15 “Using the [OCTAVE] lever to switch octaves”)
4. Use the [BANK SELECT] lever to switch sounds.
While playing the keyboard, compare the sounds of the two banks to see
which one you like best.
12
1 2
4
3
Quick start
2
1
4
3
Quick start
Playing a vocoder program
A vocoder modifies the signal from an oscillator or other source (the “carrier”) by applying the spectral characteristics of an external input source
such as a human voice (the “modulator”).
The most common way to use a vocoder is to produce a “talking instrument” effect by taking the input of your voice from the mic while you hold
down a chord on the keyboard. However you can also obtain interesting
results by using audio input sources other than a human voice, such as
rhythm sounds or anything you like. Here’s how to connect a mic and try
out the vocoder.
1. Turn the rear panel AUDIO IN [LEVEL] knob all the way to
“MIN.”
2. Connect
( p. 9 “Connecting the included mic”).
3. Set t
4. Sele
With the factory settings, category 8 or program A18, A28 etc. contains
vocoder programs. When you select a vocoder program, the [VOCODER]
button LED will light.
the mic to the front panel AUDIO IN [MIC] jack
he rear panel [XLR/LINE] switch to “XLR.”
ct a vocoder program.
5. Adjust the mic input level.
While vocalizing into the mic, turn the AUDIO IN [LEVEL] knob toward the
right as far as possible without allowing the “CLIP” indication to appear in
the level meter shown to the right of the display.
NOTE
If you want to audition the audio input directly, hold down the [EXIT/
SHIFT] button and press the [VOCODER] button (
p. 13).
6. While vocalizing into the mic, play the keyboard.
To hear different vocoder effects, try vocalizing in different ways and changing the chord you play.
NOTE
If you’re unable to hear the effect, adjust the VC CARRI page
“TMBR1.LVL” parameter or the VC AMP page “VC LEVEL” parameter
p. 54, p. 56).
(
NOTE
Some vocoder programs will produce sound when you simply play the
keyboard; there’s no need to vocalize into the mic.
5
6
Listening to the audio input (AUDIO IN THRU)
If you hold down the [EXIT/SHIFT] button and press the [VOCODER] button, the audio input signal from the AUDIO IN [MIC] jack or the AUDIO IN
[LINE] jack will be sent from the OUTPUT [L/MONO], [R] jacks without
modification.
To return to the normal state, hold down the [EXIT/SHIFT] button and press
the [VOCODER] button once again.
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microKORG XL+
0
0
3. Modifying the sound
To make your performance more expressive, you can modify the sounds of
the microKORG XL+ by using the [1]–[3] knobs, the [PITCH] wheel, the
[MOD] wheel, and by how you play the keyboard. Try out various ways to
play each program you select.
Using the controllers
Using the [PITCH] wheel and [MOD] wheel
[PITCH] wheel
The effect will be applied when you move the
wheel away from or toward yourself; there will be
no effect when the wheel is in the center. This
wheel is normally used as a pitch bender; moving
the wheel away from yourself will raise the pitch,
and moving it toward yourself will lower the pitch.
[MOD] wheel
The effect will apply when you move the wheel away from yourself; there
will be no effect when the wheel is all the way toward yourself. This wheel is
typically used to vary the vibrato depth or to modify the tone by changing
the cutoff frequency.
NOTE
You can use the [PITCH] and [MOD] wheels as virtual patch sources.
They can be used to control a wide variety of effects in addition to those
described above (
p. 49).
Using the keyboard to modify the sound
Velocity
The effect will vary depending on the amount of force that you play the keys
with. Normally, the force of your strike will affect the tone or volume.
The micro
Keyboard tracking
The effect will vary according to the keyboard position (higher or lower
notes) that you’re playing in. Normally, keyboard tracking is assigned to
make the sound brighter as you play upward on the keyboard, or to produce differences in the volume of higher and lower notes ( p. 44).
NOTE
You can use keyboard tracking and velocity as virtual patch sources.
KORG XL+’s keyboard does not support aftertouch.
14
C6–C9 UP LED lit red
C5–C8 UP LED lit orange
C4–C7 UP LED lit green
Lever operation Lever operation
Move toward
DOWN
Move toward
UP
C3–C6 dark
C2–C5 DOWN LED lit green
C1–C4 DOWN LED lit orange
C0–C3 DOWN LED lit red
Keyboard range Key LED
Middle C on a
piano is C4 (MIDI
note number 60)
Octave Shift settings and note numbers
C7
(96)
C8
(108)
C9
(120)G9(127)
C#8
(116)C9(120)
C5
(72)
C6
(84)
C3
(48)
C4
(60)
C1
(24)
C2
(36)
C-1
(0)
C0
(12)
Octave Shift not used
+1 octave
+2 octaves
+3 octaves
-3 octaves
-2 octaves
-1 octave
Quick start
Quick start
Using the [OCTAVE] lever to switch octaves
The area of pitches assigned to the keyboard can be changed in oneoctave steps over a range of +/–3 octaves.
15
microKORG XL+
Performance edit parameters
For an LPF (Low Pass Filter)
Cutoff Cutoff Cutoff Cutoff
Low resonance value High resonance value
Using the knobs to modify the sound
When the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial is set to “ASSIGN,” “FILTER,”
“AMP EG,” “EFFECT,” or “ARP,” you can use knobs [1]–[3] to control the
performance edit functions. Try turning each knob, and hear the sound
change in realtime.
Using performance editing
1. Select a program.
2. Us
e the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to choose the
section that you want to edit.
Consider how the original program differs from the sound you have in mind,
and then choose the appropriate parameters to edit.
NOTE
3. While playing the keyboard, use knobs [1], [2], and [3] to
modify the sound.
For example if you’re editing a synth program and you choose “FILTER” in
step 2, the three knobs will control the filter’s TYPE, CUTOFF, and RESONANCE parameters as printed on the front panel.
Knob [1] will select the filter type of filter 1.
Knob [2] will change the cutoff frequency of filter 1.
Knob [3] will change the resonance of filter 1, adding a distinctive character
to the sound.
NOTE
Use the [TIMBRE SELECT] lever or the [VOCODER] button to select the
part to edit.
You can save the sound you’ve modified using performance edit.
Some of the main parameters you can control using performance edit are
described below.
CUTOFF
This adjusts the cutoff frequency of filter 1, varying the brightness of the
sound. Normally, turning the knob toward the left will darken the sound, and
turning the knob toward the right will brighten the sound.
RESONANCE
This adjusts the amount of resonance for filter 1, adding a distinctive character to the sound.
ATTACK
This adjusts the attack time of EG2 (the amp EG). It specifies the time from
note-on (pressing a key) until the attack level is reached. This will vary the
speed at which the EG2 sound begins. Normally, turning the knob toward
the left will shorten the attack time, and turning it toward the right will
lengthen the attack time.
RELEASE
This adjusts the release time of EG2 (the amp EG). It specifies the time
from note-off (releasing a key) until the sound decays to silence. This will
vary the EG2 release time. Normally, turning the knob toward the left will
shorten the release time, and turning it toward the right will lengthen the
release time.
16
0
Attack Level
Time
Note on
Note off
Level
[1]: Attack Time [3]: Sustain Level
[2]: Decay Time [4]: Release Time
[1]
[3]
[4]
[2]
EG2
Quick start
Performance editing when ASSIGN is selected
If the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial is set to “ASSIGN,” the most useful
parameters for the currently selected program will be assigned to the
knobs.
NOTE
You are free to change the parameters that are assigned to the knobs.
For each program, you can freely assign a parameter to each knob
[1]–[3] and use it to control the program. (
Performance editing when EFFECT is selected
If the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial is set to “EFFECT,” parameters for
the effect used by the currently selected program will be assigned to the
knobs.
Knob [1] (FX1 DRY/WET, knob [2] (FX2 DRY/WET)
These adjust the balance between the effect sound and direct sound of the
FX1 and FX2 effects.
Turn the knob all the way to the left for a sound without any effect applied
(“dry”), or all the way to the right for the maximum effect sound (“wet”).
NOTE
These knobs won’t do anything if the FX TYPE of the selected program is
set to “FX OFF.” In this case, the display will indicate “INVALID.”
p. 33 “KNOB”)
Quick start
Knob [3] (FX1 CONTROL 1)
This adjusts the parameter that’s assigned to CTRL-1 (FX1 CONTROL 1)
for the effect used by the currently selected program.
NOTE
You are free to change the parameter that’s assigned to this knob. Refer
to page 63 “Controlling effect parameters.”
NOTE
This knob won’t do anything if the FX TYPE of the selected program is
set to “FX OFF,” In this case, the display will indicate “INVALID.”
17
microKORG XL+
4. Playing arpeggios
o stop the arpeggio, press the [ARP ON] button (the LED
5. T
goes dark).
Using the arpeggiator
The arpeggiator is a function that automatically plays a broken chord
(arpeggio) when you hold down a chord on the keyboard.
The microKORG XL+’s arpeggiator provides six arpeggio types, and
allows you to change various aspects of the arpeggio, such as the duration
(gate time) of the notes. It also provides a “step arpeggiator” that lets you
specify the on/off status for up to eight steps, giving you a wide range of
performance possibilities.
1. Select a program.
You can use the arpeggiator with both synth programs and vocoder programs, but in this example we’ll select a synth program such as “A24:
PRAY ARP” in order to try out this function.
2. Press the [ARP ON] button to make the LED light, turning
the arpeggiator on.
3. Hold down a c
playing.
When you hold down a chord, it will be sounded as shown at the right.
(TYPE: UP)
4. Use the [TEMPO] knob to adjust the tempo.
hord on the keyboard; an arpeggio will start
1
4
2 5
3
18
Editing the sound
Timbre 1
Timbre 2
Synth
Synth
EQ
EQ
ARPEGGIATOR
MASTER FX2MASTER FX1
Audio In
OUTPUT
(L/MONO, R)
OSC1
MIXER
FILTER1
FILTER2
DRIVE/WS AMP
OSC2
NOISE
EG1
Keyboard Tracking
PAN
Keyboard Tracking
Velocit y
Pitch Bend
Mod Wheel
Filter Routing= Individual
Drive/WS Position
= PreAmp
To E Q
Free Assign
OSC MOD
Synth
EG1
EG2 EG3
LFO1 LFO2 MIDI 1–3
VIRTUAL PATCH
Audio In
Editing the sound
Editing the sound
1. How a program is organized
Before you start editing, you’ll need to understand the basics of how the
sounds are created. Once you understand how the microKORG XL+’s
sounds are structured, you’ll be able to freely create the sounds you want.
Synthesizer
As shown in the illustration, a synth program consists of timbres 1/2, master
effects 1/2, and the arpeggiator.
The three elements of sound: pitch, tone, and volume
Sound has three basic elements: pitch, tone, and volume. Just like the analog synthesizers of the past, the microKORG XL+ analog modeling synthesizer provides “oscillator,” “filter,” and “amp” (amplifier) sections that control
these three elements.
Edit the oscillator settings to change the pitch, the filter settings to change
the tone, and the amp settings to change the volume.
Oscillator, filter, and amp
On the microKORG XL+, the oscillator settings are found in the OSC1 and
OSC2 pages and the PITCH page. Use the PITCH page to specify the pitch
of the basic waveform, and then select the waveforms in the OSC1 and
OSC2 pages. The waveforms generated by this oscillator section are mixed
together by the mixer. The filter settings are located in the FILTER page. On
this page you can modify the tone by applying filters to the sound produced
by the oscillator.
Finally, the amp parameters are located in the AMP page. On this page you
can modify the volume.
You can create a basic program by editing the settings in these pages.
EG, LFO, keyboard tracking, virtual patch, and controllers
In addition to the way that it’s affected by the oscillator, filter, and amp, a
synthesizer sound can also change in various other ways; over the passage of time, according to the pitch you play, or in response to various performance gestures. These changes in the sound are controlled by
modulators and controllers such as the EG (envelope generator), LFO (low
frequency oscillator), keyboard tracking, virtual patch, and wheels such as
[PITCH] and [MOD]. You can use these modulators and controllers to produce various changes in the basic sound of the program.
Take a look at the illustration that shows the structure of the microKORG
XL+. Notice that the signal flows in the order of OSC FILTER AMP.
You will also notice that these sections can be controlled by things such as
EGs and LFOs.
As shown in the illustration, a synth program consists of timbres 1/2,
effects, and the arpeggiator.
Timbres (TIMBRE 1/2)
Each timbre consists of an oscillator, filter, amp, EG, LFO, virtual patches,
and equalizer. The microKORG XL+ has two timbres, and you can combine these two timbres to create a richer-sounding program.
19
microKORG XL+
Oscillator (OSC1, OSC2, NOISE)
Oscillator 1 (OSC1) lets you choose from seven types of oscillator algorithm such as the sawtooth wave or square wave familiar from analog synthesizers, as well as formant wave, noise, and PCM/DWGS, and also lets
you select the input signal from the AUDIO IN jack. You can also apply
cross modulation, unison, or VPM (Variable Phase Modulation) to a basic
analog synthesizer waveform such as sawtooth or square wave.
Oscillator 2 (OSC2) lets you choose a waveform from four types of oscillator algorithms such as sawtooth wave or square wave, and it can also be
used as a modulation-type oscillator to create the sync modulation or ring
modulation that is distinctive of analog synthesizers.
The noise generator (NOISE) produces white noise. You can use this to
simulate breath noise in a wind instrument sound, or to produce sound
effects.
Mixer (MIXER)
This section lets you adjust the volume level of oscillator 1 (OSC1), oscillator 2 (OSC2), and noise generator (NOISE), and sends the resulting mix to
the filters (FILTER).
Filters (FILTER 1, FILTER 2)
The filter varies the brightness of the sound by removing or boosting certain
portions of the frequency spectrum of the sound generated by the oscillator.
Filter settings will have a large impact on the character of the sound. There
are two filters for each timbre, and you can create a wide range of sounds
by choosing from four routings (types of connection) for these filters. In
addition, you can use envelope generator 1 (EG1) to vary the cutoff frequency of each filter over time.
Amp (AMP)
This section consists of the amp (AMP) and pan (PAN) settings. The amp
specifies the volume, and the pan specifies the stereo position of the
sound. You can also use envelope generator 2 (EG2) to vary the volume
over time.
Drive/waveshaping (DRIVE/WS)
Drive and waveshaping both give the tone a hard-edged character. Adjusting the cutoff or resonance of the filter can produce significant changes.
Envelope generators (EG1, EG2, EG3)
An envelope generator applies time-variant change to parameters that
make up the sound. Each envelope generator defines the “shape” of the
time-variant change using four parameters: attack time, decay time, sustain
level, and release time. EG1 is assigned to control the filter cutoff frequency, and EG2 is assigned to control the amp volume. You are free to
assign EG3 to any desired parameter by using a virtual patch. EG1 and
EG2 can also be used with a virtual patch as an envelope source for other
parameters.
LFOs (LFO1, LFO2)
An LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator) applies cyclic change to parameters
that make up the sound. Each timbre has two LFOs, each giving you a
choice of five waveforms. For some waveforms that can be selected for
oscillator 1 (OSC1), LFO1 is assigned as “control 2” (OSC1 Control 2), and
LFO2 is assigned as a pitch modulation source via the modulation wheel.
You can also use a virtual patch to assign the LFO as a modulation source
for other parameters.
Virtual patch (VIRTUAL PATCH)
The virtual patch functionality lets you use not only EG or LFO but also
sources such as velocity (keyboard playing strength) and keyboard tracking
(the keyboard region that you play) as modulation sources to control the
parameters that make up the sound. This gives you a great deal of freedom
in creating original sounds. For each timbre, you can create virtual patch
settings for six parameters.
Equalizer (EQ)
Each timbre contains a two-band EQ. You can use this to adjust the tonal
balance between the two timbres; for example you might accentuate a
sound that would otherwise be lost in the mix, or to restrain a sound that
stands out too much.
Master effects (MASTER FX)
Each program contains two master effects. By applying these effects to the
final mixed sound of the two timbres, you can add the finishing touch to the
overall program.
20
Editing the sound
Editing the sound
Arpeggiator (ARPEGGIATOR)
Vocoder
The arpeggiator automatically generates an arpeggio (broken chord) when
you hold down a chord on the keyboard. For programs that use two timbres, you can apply the arpeggiator to either or both timbres. This is a step
arpeggiator with six arpeggio types.
A vocoder analyzes the frequency characteristics of one signal called the
“modulator” (such as a human voice input via a mic) and applies these
characteristics to a filter that is processing a different signal called the “carrier” (such as an oscillator waveform), thus producing distinctive effects
such as an instrument that appears to be talking.
The microKORG XL+ contains a sixteen-band vocoder that can simulate
not only the classic vocoder sounds of the past but also create original
vocoder sounds where the tonal character or the level of each band can be
controlled.
As shown in the illustration below, the vocoder consists of the carrier (the
signal being modified), the modulator (the signal that controls the modifying), and the vocoder section itself.
Audio In
Timbre 1
Timbre 2
Synth
Synth
Vocoder Sw= ON
Carrier
Voco der
Modulator
Vocoder Sw= ON & Modulator AudioSrc =Timbre2
EQ
EQ
Vocoder
HPF
HPF
LEVEL
DIRECT
LEVEL
Audio In
Timbre2
Timbre1
Timbre2
LEVEL
LEVEL
Gate Send
Threshold
GATE
Modulator
Band16
Band1
ANALYSIS
FILTER
RESONANCE
SYNTHESIS
Carrier
FILTER
CUTOFF (FC MOD)
FORMANT SHIFT
E.F. SENS
ENVELOPE
FOLLOWER
Band. LEVEL
PAN
Vocoder section (VOCODER)
This consists of two sets of sixteen bandpass filters (the analysis filter and
the synthesis filter) and an envelope follower. The audio signal input to the
modulator is sent to sixteen filters (the analysis filter), and an envelope follower will detect the volume envelope (time-variant change) of each frequency band.
The carrier signal is sent to a separate set of sixteen filters (the synthesis
filter), and the envelope detected from the analysis filter is used to control
the volume of each band in the synthesis filter, thus varying the tonal character of the carrier signal and producing the impression that the carrier signal is talking. It is also possible to shift the frequencies of the carrier
bandpass filter. This allows you to raise or lower the frequency response
while preserving the character of the modulator, creating dramatic changes
in the sound.
MASTER FX1
To Timbre 1
EQ
21
microKORG XL+
Carrier (CARRIER)
The most suitable choice as a carrier is a waveform that contains large
numbers of overtones, such as a sawtooth wave or pulse wave. The output
of timbres 1 and 2 is mixed and used as the carrier.
Modulator (MODULATOR)
A human voice is typically used as the modulator, but you can also obtain
unique results by using rhythm sounds or another type of waveform. The
microKORG XL+ allows you to select either an external input such as mic
or rhythm (AUDIO IN) or timbre 2 as the modulator. If you’ve selected timbre 2, the output of the timbre 2 EQ will be input to the modulator.
2. Basic editing procedure
There are two ways to edit sounds on the microKORG XL+.
• You can select a program that’s close to the sound you want, and create
the desir
• You can start editing the program from scratch (an initialized state).
Choose a method, and get started creating and playing your own sounds!
Editing a program
Performance editing
1. Select the program that you want to edit.
2. Use the [KN
section that you want to edit.
Take a moment to consider how the original program is different than what
you have in mind, and choose the appropriate parameter to edit.
NOTE
3. Use knobs [1], [2], and [3] to edit the values of the parame-
ters assigned to each knob.
4. Re
sound.
5. W
p. 31 “Saving (Writing)”
If you want to create a program from scratch
If you want to create a program from scratch, start by initializing to enter
program.
p. 28 “Initializing a program”
NOTE
ed program by making the necessary changes.
OB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to choose the
Use the [TIMBRE SELECT] lever or the [VOCODER] button to select the
part that you want to edit.
peat steps 2 and 3 as needed to create the desired
rite your edited program.
If you select another program or turn off the power before you’ve
written your edited program, the ch
If you’re creating a program from scratch using Full Edit mode, you can
take advantage of the fact that pages are organized in the appropriate order; simply proceed by turning knob [1] to step through the pages.
anges you made will be lost.
22
3. Full Edit mode
PAG E N AME
PARAMETER NAME
PARAMETER NAME
VAL UE
Editing the sound
Editing in Full Edit mode
If you set the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to “FULL EDIT,” all of the
parameters will be available for editing.
NOTE
This includes the MIDI-related settings (GLOBAL).
1. Select the program that you want to edit.
2. Set the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT]
3. Use
knobs [1] and [2] to select the parameter that you want
dial to FULL EDIT.
to edit, and knob [3] to edit the value.
Use knob [1] to select the page in which to edit.
Use knob [2] to select a parameter on that page.
Use knob [3] to edit the value of the selected parameter.
If you select another program or turn off the power before you’ve
written your edited program, the changes you made will be lost.
Editing the sound
About the display in Full Edit mode
When you turn knob [1] to select the OSC1 page, the upper line of the display will indicate the name of the page, and the lower line will indicate the
name of a parameter.
Now when you turn knob [2], the display
show the parameter name, and the lower line will show the value that
changes when you turn knob [3].
The illustration below is an example of when you’ve selected the OSC
MODE parameter WAVEFORM.
will change; the upper line will
How to edit parameters
INC/DEC function
If you want to make fine changes to the value of a parameter, hold down the
[EXIT/SHIFT] button and operate the OCTAVE lever to increment or decrement the value.
For example if you’re specifying a numerical value, move the lever toward
UP to increment the value by one, or toward DOWN to decrement it.
23
microKORG XL+
Suppose that you’ve turned knob [1] to edit a certain parameter, and
that the knob is in the position shown.
Then suppose that you use the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to
switch sections and edit the parameter that’s assigned to knob [1], and
that the actual value of that parameter is the position indicated by the
triangle in the illustration. (The actual value will be displayed if you move
the knob slightly.) The parameter value will not change until you turn the
knob to that position.
Once the knob has reached the position corresponding to the actual
value, the parameter value and the knob position will be linked, and the
value will change as you turn the knob.
If the parameter value does not change when you turn the knob
In some cases when you’ve used the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to
choose a section to edit, turning knobs [1]–[3] may not change the value of
the parameter.
This is because the Full Edit mode GLOBAL page “KNOB. MODE” parameter is set to “CATCH.” With this setting, the actual value of the parameter
you’re editing (the value shown in the display) will not change unless it
matches the position of the knob.
If “KNOB.MODE” is set to “CATCH,” the knob position and the value will be
linked only when the knob position reaches the actual value. This prevents
the unnatural change that might be produced by a sudden change in the
value.
If the Full Edit mode GLOBAL page “KNOB.MODE” parameter is set to
“JUMP,” the actual value will immediately jump to the knob position the
instant you move the knob.
If “KNOB MODE” is set to CATCH
Suppose that knob [1] is in the position shown in the illustration.
If the actual value of the parameter was at the position shown by the triangle, t
urning the knob slightly will make a “ ” symbol appear in the display.
This symbol means that the actual value is toward the left of the position
indicated by the knob.
Conversely, if the actual value is toward the right of the knob position, a
“ ” symbol will appear in the display.
24
Restoring an edited program value to its original setting
When you set a value to the same value stored in the original preset program or saved program, the ORIGINAL VALUE LED will light.
After editing a value, you can restore that value to its original setting by
turning knobs [1]–[3] to the value that makes the ORIGINAL VALUE LED
light-up. If you’re in Full Edit mode, the ORIGINAL VALUE LED will light-up
when the setting of knob [3] matches the original value.
If you’ve been editing, but then select a different program and then reselect the program you had been editing, the values will return to the preset
program or stored program value.
NOTE
Settings affecting the entire
(GLOBAL) are made using the same procedure as when editing a program; use the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to select the Full Edit
ode section, and then use the knobs to edit the values. These settings
m
will also revert to their un-edited state if you turn off the power, so you
must Write them if you want to keep the changes you make.
microKORG XL+
or MIDI-related settings
Editing the two timbres
You can use two timbres in a program.
The parameters of each timbre are organized into the NAME–EQ pages. To
edit these parameters, you must first select the timbre that you want to edit
(the [TIMBRE 1] or [TIMBRE 2] LED will light).
NOTE
The COMMON page “VOIC.MODE” parameter affects the entire program.
Using two timbres (Layer)
If you’re using two timbres, you can choose one of three modes in which to
use them. Here we’ll set the “VOIC.MODE” to LAYER.
With LAYER mode, both timbres will sound simultaneously when you play a
key. For details on the other modes, refer to page 32 “VOIC.MODE”.
1. Use the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to select “FULL
EDIT.”
2. Use knob [
select “VOIC. MODE,” and use knob [3] to select LAYER.
Selecting the timbre to edit
When you edit a program that uses two timbres, you’ll need to select which
timbre you want to edit. Use the [TIMBRE SELECT] lever to choose which
timbre that you want to edit.
1] to select the COMMON page, use knob [2] to
Editing the sound
2
4
3
Editing the sound
Editing the vocoder
Selecting the vocoder for editing
The LED of the selected timbre will light-up, and that timbre will be the one
affected by your editing.
NOTE
The TIMBRE SELECT LED won’t light if the COMMON page “VOIC.MODE” parameter is SINGLE. The LED of the timbre being edited will
ight if you’ve selected LAYER, SPLIT, or MULTI as the voice mode
l
p. 32).
(
You’ll use the VC FILT–VC BAND pages to edit the parameters of the sixteen bandpass filters (analysis filter and synthesis filter) and the envelope
follower.
Carrier
The best choice for the carrier is a waveform that contains a large number
of overtones, such as a sawtooth wave or fixed-width pulse wave. You can
edit these parameters in the VC CARRI page.
NOTE
If you want to input a sawtooth wave as the carrier, first edit timbre 1 so
that the OSC1 page “WAVE” parameter is set to SAW; then in the vocoder settings, use the VC CARRI page “TMBR1.LVL” parameter to adjust
input level of timbre 1.
the
Modulator
A human voice is typically used as the modulator, but you can also obtain
interesting results by using rhythm sounds or some other audio source. As
the modulator, the microKORG XL+ lets you choose either an external
input such as mic or rhythm (AUDIO IN) or timbre 2. You can edit these
parameters in the VC.MOD page.
The process of editing the vocoder settings is essentially the same as when
editing a timbre, but you’ll need to turn on the vocoder function and select it
for editing.
1. Select a synth program.
2. Pre
ss the [VOCODER] button.
The LED above the [VOCODER] button will light-up, and the vocoder function will turn on. The vocoder will also be selected as the object of your editing.
3. Set the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to “FULL EDIT.”
4. Use knob
[1] to select one of the VC CARRI–VC BAND
pages, and then use knobs [2] and [3] to edit the vocoder
parameters.
When the vocoder is the selected object for editing, knob [1] will select
vocoder parameter pages.
NOTE
If you press the [VOCODER] button to make the LED light, set the
[KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to Full Edit and turn knob [1] to raise
the VC AMP page “DIRCT.LVL” parameter, the input audio will be output
directly. Raise this value if you want to hear the input audio while you
make adjustments.
NOTE
If you have difficulty hearing the effect, press the [VOCODER] button to
make the LED light, set the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to Full Edit,
and turn knob [1] to adjust the VC CARRI page “TMBR1.LVL” parameter
or the VC AMP page “VC LEVEL” parameter.
Processing an external audio input
You can use the filter, amp, EGs, and LFOs etc. to modify a signal from an
external synthesizer, rhythm machine, or audio device in the same ways
that you modify an oscillator waveform.
NOTE
Before you connect an external device, power-off the
and any external devices including amps or powered speakers, and
make connections before you turn the power on again.
NOTE
You can use the external input as the carrier of the vocoder.
1. Set the [KNOB FUNCTION SELECT] dial to “FULL EDIT.”
2. Use knob [
1] to select the OSC1 page, knob [2] to select
“WAVE,” and knob [3] to select “AUDIO IN.”
microKORG XL+
25
microKORG XL+
3. Connect an audio signal from your external device to the
input, and adjust the AUDIO IN [LEVEL] knob as high as
possible without allowing the “CLIP” indicator to appear in
the display.
4. Play th
5. Edit th
e keyboard while listening to the sound.
e filter, amp, EG, LFO, and effect settings to modify
the sound.
Pitch-related parameters will not affect the sound from the AUDIO IN
jack.
Editing the arpeggiator
The microKORG XL+’s arpeggiator provides six arpeggio types. You can
adjust the duration (gate time) and the spacing of the notes generated by
the arpeggiator. These settings are located in the ARP page. There’s also a
“step arpeggiator” function that lets you specify the note on/off status for
each of up to eight steps, giving you a wide range of performance possibilities.
Selecting the timbre(s) to arpeggiate
For a program that uses two timbres, you can select the timbre(s) that will
be played by the arpeggiator.
This is specified by the ARP page “ASSIGN” parameter. You can make the
arpeggiator play both timbres, or just one of them.
Synchronizing the arpeggiator
Synchronizing LFO1/2 frequency or effect delay time to the
arpeggio
You can synchronize the frequency of LFO1 or LFO2 to the arpeggio
tempo. This lets you apply modulation that’s synchronized with the tempo.
This also gives you the ability to specify an effect’s delay time as a multiple
of the tempo so that the delay time will follow even if you change the arpeggio tempo.
You can also synchronize the microKORG XL+’s arpeggiator to an external MIDI sequencer, so that the LFO1/2 frequency or the delay time will be
controlled from your external sequencer.
Modifying the arpeggio
You can modify the arpeggio by turning each arpeggio step on/off. This is
called the “step arpeggiator” function.
Using the step arpeggiator to modify the arpeggio
1. After selecting Full Edit mode, use knob [1] to select the
ARP.STEP page.
2. Use knob
[2] to select the arpeggiator step.
26
TYPE: UP
LAST STEP: 8
Editing the sound
3. Use knob [3] to turn the selected step on/off.
In the display, enabled steps are indicated as “O” (on). If you turn knob [3]
to change the indication to “–” (off), that step will be a rest.
NOTE
The number of available steps is specified by the ARP page
“LAST.STEP” parameter (
p. 52).
Editing the sound
4. About the Global settings
The GLOBAL parameters are settings that apply to the entire microKORG
XL+. For example, you can individually adjust the pitch of each program,
but the pitch settings in this GLOBAL page (“MST TUNE” and “TRANSPOS”) will affect the pitch of all programs.
If you’re playing together with other instruments, set “MST TUNE” to match
the microKORG XL+’s pitch with the other instruments, and use “TRANSPOS” if you need to transpose the song you’re playing. When you use multiple programs within a single song, it’s convenient to change just the
GLOBAL parameter settings instead of changing the pitch of each program.
For details, refer to page 57 “5.Global parameters”.
If you want to keep the changes you make to these p
must Write them ( p. 31 “Saving global data”).
arameters, you
27
microKORG XL+
5. Other functions
Initializing a program
Here’s how to initialize the settings of the currently selected program.
1. In Full Edit mode, turn knob [1] to select “INIT.PROG.”
2. T
urn knob [2] to make the display indicate “SURE Y/N.”
Here you can select either “YES” or “NO.”
3. To initialize, select “YES” and press the [WRITE] button.
The program will be initialized, and the display will indicate “COMPLETE.”
NOTE
If you decide not to initialize, press the [EXIT/SHIFT] button.
Copying a timbre
Here’s how to copy timbre settings from another program to the timbre of
the currently selected program.
1. In Full Edit mode, turn knob [1] to select “COPY.TMBR.”
2. T
urn knob [2]; the left side of the display will show the copysource program number, the middle will show the copysource timbre, and the right will show the copy-destination
timbre.
e knob [2] to move the cursor below the program number,
3. Us
and then use knob [3] to select the copy-source program.
e knob [2] to move the cursor below the timbre, and then
4. Us
use knob [3] to select the copy-source timbre.
5. Use the [TIMBRE SELECT]
tion timbre.
o execute the copy, press the [WRITE] button.
6. T
The copy will be executed, and the display will indicate “COMPLETE.”
NOTE
If “VOIC.MODE” is “SINGLE,” you can’t select “TIMBRE2” as the copydestination.
NOTE
If you decide not to execute the copy, press the [EXIT/SHIFT] button.
lever to select the copy-destina-
Transmitting programs and other data (Data Dump)
Program data and global data can be transmitted from the microKORG
XL+ as 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 change the sounds or settings of another microKORG
XL+ unit.
NOTE
If the
microKORG XL+
vice, it will execute a data dump according to the type of request that it
r
eceived.
NOTE
If you want data dumps to be received, turn the GLOBAL page “PROTECT” parameter off, and set the MIDI FLT page “SYS EX” parameter to
E
NABLE. If this is set to DISABLE, data dumps cannot be received.
NOTE
The “MIDI Implementation” including details on the MIDI exclusive format
can be downloaded from the Korg website.
Do not touch the microKORG XL+’s knobs or keyboard while data is
being transmitted or received. Never turn off the power during this
time.
Some MIDI interface devices may be unable to transmit or receive
the micro
KORG XL+’s MIDI exclusive messages.
receives a dump request from an external de-
28
Editing the sound
Editing the sound
Procedure for transmission
Procedure for reception
Connect the microKORG XL+’s MIDI OUT connector to the MIDI IN of the
device that will be receiving the MIDI data dump, and set both devices to
the same MIDI channel. If you want to use a USB connection, connect the
microKORG XL+ to your computer via a USB cable.
NOTE
For details on connections, refer to page 80 “1.Using the microKORG
XL+ with other MIDI devices (MIDI)”.
1. In Full Edit mode, use knob [1] to select the “MIDI.DUMP”
page.
e knob [2] to select the data that you want to dump.
2. Us
1 PROG: Only the data for the currently selected program will be transmitted (the parameters in the NAME–VC BAND pages, and the settings of the
front panel buttons and knobs).
ALL PROG: All program data will be transmitted.
GLOBAL: Global data will be transmitted (the parameters of the
GLOBAL–USR.SCALE pages).
ALL DATA: All program data and global data will be transmitted.
3. Press [WRITE] button to execute the data dump.
The data dump will be executed. When the dump is completed, the display
will indicate “COMPLETE.”
NOTE
For details on the contents of program data and global data, refer to the
sections “Saving a program” and “Saving global data” in “Saving (Writ-
p. 31).
ing)” (
NOTE
For details on the size of each data dump and the time required, refer to
the table on this page.
Here’s how data saved on a connected MIDI data filer or computer can be
sent back to the microKORG XL+, or data received from another micro-
KORG XL+ unit.
1. Connect the microKORG XL+’s MIDI IN connector to the
MIDI OUT of the device that will be transmitting the MIDI
data dump.
If you’re using a USB connection, connect the microKORG XL+ to your
computer via a USB cable.
2. Set both the transmitting device and the microKORG XL+
to the same MIDI channel.
If you want the microKORG XL+ to receive data that was previously transmitted to an external MIDI device, set the microKORG XL+ to the same
MIDI channel as when it transmitted the data.
3. In the MIDI FLT page, set “SYS EX” to ENABLE ( p. 60),
and turn the GLOBAL page
“PROTECT” parameter OFF
( p. 58).
ransmit the data from your MIDI data filer or other device.
4. T
For details on how to transmit data, please refer to the owner’s manual of
the device you’re using.
Dump data Data size Time required
1 Prog 402 Bytes Less than 1 second
All Prog 51,712 Bytes Approx. 3’15"
Global 121 Bytes Less than 1 second
All Data 51,833 Bytes Approx. 3’15"
Restoring the factory settings
Here’s how to restore the microKORG XL+’s programs and global data
settings to their factory-set condition.
The factory settings are called the “preload data.”
When you execute the Preload operation, the micro
data will be rewritten to the factory-set condition. Before you continue, make sure that it’s OK to rewrite the data.
Do not touch the microKORG XL+’s knobs or keyboard while the
Preload operation is in progress. Never turn off the power during this
operation.
NOTE
You can’t execute the Preload operation if Write Protect is turned on. You
must turn off Write Protect before you execute this.
1. In Full Edit mode, turn knob [1] to select “PRELOAD.”
KORG XL+’s
29
microKORG XL+
2. Use knob [2] to select the desired type of preload data.
1 PROG: Only the data for the currently selected program will be loaded
(the parameters of the NAME–VC BANK pages and the settings of the front
panel buttons and knobs).
ALL PROG: All program data will be loaded.
GLOBAL: Global data will be loaded (the parameters of the
GLOBAL–USR.SCALE pages).
ALL DATA: All program data and global data will be loaded.
3. Press the [WRITE] button to execute the operation.
The preload data will be loaded, and the display will indicate “COMPLETE.”
NOTE
If you decide not to execute, press the [EXIT/SHIFT] button.
30
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