Kurzweil Music Systems K2000 User's Manual

K 2000

usician’s Guide

1999 All rights reserved. Kurzweil is a product line of Young Chang Co.; V. A. S. T. is a registered trademark, and Kurzweil, K2vx, and K2000 are trademarks of Young Chang Co. All other products and brand names are trademarks/registered trademarks of their respective companies. Product features and speciÞcations are subject to change without notice. Further information: http://www.youngchang.com

Part Number: 910204-BIG

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER

NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL

The lightning flash with the arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated

"dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and

maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

IMPORTANT SAFETY & INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

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

WARNING - When using electric products, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:

1. Read all of the Safety and Installation Instructions and Explanation of Graphic Symbols before using the product.

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

DANGER - Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric shock. Do not modify the plug provided

with the the product - if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician. Do not use an adaptor which defeats the function of the equipment-grounding conductor. If you are in doubt as to whether the product is properly grounded, check with a qualified serviceman or electrician.

3. WARNING - This product is equipped with an AC input voltage selector. The voltage selector has been factory set for the mains supply voltage in the country where this unit was sold. Changing the voltage selector may require the use of a different power supply cord or attachment plug, or both. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, refer servicing to qualified maintenance personnel.

4. Do not use this product near water - for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, or the like.

5. This product should only be used with a stand or cart that is recommended by the manufacturer.

6. This product, either alone or in combination with an amplifier and speakers or headphones, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for a long period of time at a high volume level or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should consult an audiologist.

7. The product should be located so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation.

8. The product should be located away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, or other products that produce heat.

9. The product should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the product.

10. This product may be equipped with a polarized line plug (one blade wider than the other). This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact an electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the plug.

11. The power supply cord of the product should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time. When unplugging the power supply cord, do not pull on the cord, but grasp it by the plug.

12. Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.

13. The product should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:

A. The power supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the product; or C. The product has been exposed to rain; or D. The product does not appear to be operating normally or exhibits a marked change in performance; or E. The product has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.

14. Do not attempt to to service the product beyond that described in the user maintenance instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.

15. WARNING - Do not place objects on the product's power supply cord, or place the product in a position where anyone could trip over, walk on, or roll anything over cords of any type. Do not allow the product to rest on or be installed over cords of any type. Improper installations of this type create the possibility of a fire hazard and/or personal injury.

RADIO AND TELEVISION INTERFERENCE

Warning: Changes or modiﬁcations to this instrument not expressly approved by Young Chang could void your authority to operate the instrument. Important: When connecting this product to accessories and/or other equipment use only high quality shielded cables. Note: This instrument 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 instrument 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 instrument does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the instrument 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 instrument and the receiver.

• Connect the instrument into an outlet on a circuit other than the one to which the receiver is connected.

• If necessary consult your dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions.

NOTICE

This apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

AVIS

Le present appareil numerique n’emet pas de bruits radioelectriques depassant les limites applicables aux appareils numeriques de la class B prescrites dans le Reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des Communications du Canada.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Table of Contents

Introduction ...........................................................................................................................................1-1

Welcome! ........................................................................................................................1-1

Overview of the K2vx ..................................................................................................... 1-1

What is VAST? ...................................................................................................1-2

How the K2vx Works ......................................................................................... 1-2

How to use this manual ...................................................................................................1-2

Startup ................................................................................................................................................... 2-1

Basic Startup Checklist: ..................................................................................................2-1

Startup—the Details ........................................................................................................2-1

Before You Start... ..............................................................................................2-1

The Rear Panel ................................................................................................................2-2

Playing the Presets .......................................................................................................... 2-4

Programs ............................................................................................................. 2-4

Setups ..................................................................................................................2-4

Quick Access ...................................................................................................... 2-5

Performance Controls ..................................................................................................... 2-6

K2vx Boot Loader ...........................................................................................................2-6

Starting the Boot Loader .....................................................................................2-6

Boot-loader Main Menu: .....................................................................................2-6

Install System / Install Objects ...........................................................................2-7

Run System ......................................................................................................... 2-8

Hard Reset ........................................................................................................... 2-8

Run Diags ............................................................................................................2-8

Fixed Diags ......................................................................................................... 2-8

User Interface Basics ............................................................................................................................ 3-1

Mode Selection ............................................................................................................... 3-1

Mode Buttons ......................................................................................................3-1

Navigation ...........................................................................................................3-1

The Display ......................................................................................................... 3-1

Pages ................................................................................................................... 3-2

The Top Line .......................................................................................................3-2

The Bottom Line .................................................................................................3-2

The Soft Buttons ................................................................................................. 3-2

The Cursor Buttons .............................................................................................3-2

Data Entry ....................................................................................................................... 3-4

The Alpha Wheel ................................................................................................ 3-4

The Plus/Minus Buttons ...................................................................................... 3-4

The Alphanumeric Pad .......................................................................................3-4

Double Button Presses ........................................................................................ 3-5

Intuitive Data Entry .........................................................................................................3-6

Changing the Current Layer in Multi-Layer Programs .......................................3-6

Search Function .................................................................................................. 3-6

The Panel Play Feature (K2vxR) .................................................................................... 3-7

TOC-3

Table of Contents

The Operating Modes ...........................................................................................................................4-1

What the Modes Are .......................................................................................................4-1

Selecting Modes ..............................................................................................................4-1

Using the Modes .............................................................................................................4-3

Editing Conventions ..............................................................................................................................5-1

Introduction to Editing ....................................................................................................5-1

Object Type and ID .........................................................................................................5-2

Saving and Naming .........................................................................................................5-2

Deleting Objects ..............................................................................................................5-4

Memory Banks ................................................................................................................5-5

Special Button Functions ................................................................................................5-6

Program Mode and the Program Editor ............................................................................................6-1

K2vx Program Structure .................................................................................................6-2

The Program Mode Page .................................................................................................6-2

What are these programs in parentheses? ...........................................................6-2

The Soft Buttons in Program Mode ....................................................................6-3

Using the Program Editor ...............................................................................................6-4

The Soft Buttons in the Program Editor ..............................................................6-4

Algorithm Basics .................................................................................................6-5

Common DSP Control Parameters .....................................................................6-6

The Program Editor—Pages ...........................................................................................6-9

The Algorithm (ALG) Page ................................................................................6-9

The LAYER Page .............................................................................................6-10

The KEYMAP Page ..........................................................................................6-14

The PITCH Page ...............................................................................................6-16

F1–F3 Pages ......................................................................................................6-17

The F4 AMP Page .............................................................................................6-17

The OUTPUT Page ...........................................................................................6-18

The EFFECT Page ............................................................................................6-21

The COMMON Page ........................................................................................6-22

The Amplitude Envelope (AMPENV) Page .....................................................6-24

Envelopes 2 and 3 .............................................................................................6-27

The Envelope Control (ENVCTL) Page ...........................................................6-27

The LFO Page ...................................................................................................6-29

The ASR Page ...................................................................................................6-30

The FUN Page ...................................................................................................6-31

The VTRIG Page ..............................................................................................6-32

The Function Soft Buttons ................................................................................6-32

Setup Mode and the Setup Editor .......................................................................................................7-1

Setup Mode .....................................................................................................................7-1

The Setup Editor .............................................................................................................7-2

Quick Access Mode and the

Quick Access Editor ..............................................................................................................................8-1

Effects Mode and the Effects Editor ...................................................................................................9-1

The Effects Mode Page ...................................................................................................9-1

TOC-4

Table of Contents

The Soft Buttons on the Effects mode Page ....................................................... 9-1

Effects Mode Parameters ................................................................................................ 9-2

Understanding FX Mode and FX Channel ......................................................... 9-2

Another Use for Effects Mode ............................................................................ 9-5

The Effects Editor ...........................................................................................................9-5

Editing Effects .................................................................................................... 9-6

Configurations and Parameters .......................................................................................9-7

MIDI Mode ..........................................................................................................................................10-1

The Transmit (XMIT) Page ..........................................................................................10-1

Physical Control Parameters .............................................................................10-4

The Receive (RECV) Page ........................................................................................... 10-5

The Channels Page ........................................................................................................ 10-8

Parameter Locks ..............................................................................................10-10

Program Change Formats ........................................................................................... 10-10

Extended and Kurzweil Program Change Types ............................................10-11

The Soft Buttons in MIDI Mode ................................................................................. 10-18

Master Mode ........................................................................................................................................11-1

The Master Mode Page ................................................................................................. 11-1

The Soft Buttons in Master Mode ................................................................................. 11-4

Guitar/Wind Controller Mode .......................................................................................11-5

Object Utilities ..............................................................................................................11-6

Move ................................................................................................................. 11-7

Copy ..................................................................................................................11-8

Name ................................................................................................................. 11-9

Delete ................................................................................................................ 11-9

Dump ...............................................................................................................11-10

Accessing the Object Utilities from the Editor ...............................................11-10

Song Mode ........................................................................................................................................... 12-1

Getting Started with the Sequencer ...............................................................................12-1

A Word about the Local Keyboard Channel .....................................................12-1

Tutorial: Recording a song ................................................................................12-2

...........................................................................................................................12-3

MAIN Page ................................................................................................................. 12-11

Soft Buttons on the MAIN Page ..................................................................... 12-15

Save this song? Dialog ....................................................................................12-16

Save New song? Dialog ..................................................................................12-17

Erase Track Dialog .........................................................................................12-17

MISC Page ..................................................................................................................12-18

Soft Buttons on the MISC Page ......................................................................12-22

MIX Page ....................................................................................................................12-23

Soft Buttons on the MIX Page ........................................................................12-24

The Edit Song Pages ................................................................................................... 12-25

Edit Song: COMMON Page ....................................................................................... 12-25

Parameters used with the Arrangement Feature ............................................. 12-26

Soft Buttons on the Edit Song: COMMON Page ........................................... 12-27

TOC-5

Table of Contents

Edit Song: EVENT Page .............................................................................................12-28

Soft Buttons on the Edit Song: EVENT Page .................................................12-29

Edit Song: TRACK Page ............................................................................................12-31

Common Parameters for Edit Song: Track Functions ....................................12-32

Region / Criteria Window Parameters ............................................................12-32

Soft Buttons on the Edit Song: Track Page .....................................................12-33

Edit Song: Track Functions – Erase ............................................................................12-34

Edit Song: Track Functions – Copy ............................................................................12-34

Edit Song: Track Functions – Bounce ........................................................................12-35

Edit Song: Track Functions – Insert ...........................................................................12-35

Edit Song: Track Functions – Delete ..........................................................................12-36

Edit Song: Track Functions – Quantize ......................................................................12-36

Edit Song: Track Functions – Reference Quantize .....................................................12-37

Edit Song: Track Functions – Shift .............................................................................12-38

Edit Song: Track Functions – Transpose ....................................................................12-39

Edit Song: Track Functions – Change ........................................................................12-39

Edit Song: Track Functions – Thin .............................................................................12-40

Edit Song: Track Functions – Remap .........................................................................12-41

Edit Song: Track Functions – Grab .............................................................................12-41

Edit Song: STEP Page .................................................................................................12-43

Recording with the STEP editor .....................................................................12-43

Soft Buttons on the Edit Song: STEP Page .....................................................12-45

Edit Song: ARRANGE Page .......................................................................................12-46

Triggering Steps from a Key ...........................................................................12-47

Soft Buttons on the Edit Song: ARRANGE Page ...........................................12-48

Selecting a Song for Playback ....................................................................................12-49

Effect Selection During Recording and Playback .......................................................12-49

Synchronizing Songs .......................................................................................12-49

Memory Limits ...........................................................................................................12-50

Loading Songs From Disk ..........................................................................................12-50

Recording Multi-timbral Sequences via MIDI ...........................................................12-50

Disk Mode ............................................................................................................................................13-1

Disk Mode Page ............................................................................................................13-1

Using your K2vx in a SCSI System ..................................................................13-4

Directories ......................................................................................................... 13-4

Path ....................................................................................................................13-4

Startup ............................................................................................................... 13-5

Library ...............................................................................................................13-5

Disk Drive Information .....................................................................................13-5

Macro On Indicator ...........................................................................................13-5

Disk Mode Soft Buttons ....................................................................................13-5

File List Dialog .............................................................................................................13-6

The File Index ...................................................................................................13-8

Soft Buttons in the File List Dialog ..................................................................13-8

Total ................................................................................................................ 13-10

TOC-6

Table of Contents

Quick Scrolling to Subdirectories ................................................................... 13-10

Creating Directories ....................................................................................................13-11

Creating a Directory with NewDir .................................................................. 13-11

Creating a Directory with Save -> NewDir .................................................... 13-12

The Directory Selection Dialog ..................................................................................13-12

Disk Mode Functions .................................................................................................. 13-13

Loading Files .................................................................................................. 13-13

Loading Individual Objects .............................................................................13-13

Shortcuts when Loading Objects ....................................................................13-16

Loading Dependents of Selected Objects .......................................................13-17

Auditioning Samples from a Disk File ........................................................... 13-17

Loading Objects from Floppy Disk Files ........................................................13-18

Load Function Dialog ................................................................................................. 13-18

Bank Status Indicator ...................................................................................... 13-18

Loading Methods ............................................................................................ 13-18

Multiple Selection of Files to Load ................................................................ 13-21

Aborting a Multiple File Load ........................................................................ 13-21

More Load Function Enhancements ............................................................... 13-22

Saving Files ................................................................................................................. 13-22

Soft Buttons in the "Save Selection" Dialog ................................................... 13-24

Saving Individual Objects ...............................................................................13-24

Shortcuts when Saving Objects ...................................................................... 13-24

Auditioning Objects in RAM ..........................................................................13-25

Saving Dependent Objects .............................................................................. 13-26

The Name Table .............................................................................................. 13-27

Working with Relink-by-Name ...................................................................... 13-28

Not Loading the Name Table .......................................................................... 13-31

Relink-by-Name Processing Time .................................................................. 13-31

The Multiple Object Selector Page .............................................................................13-32

Multiple Object Selector Soft Buttons ............................................................ 13-33

Entering Selection Criteria in the Multiple Object Selector ........................... 13-34

More Features of the Save Dialog ..................................................................13-37

Macros .........................................................................................................................13-38

The Macro Page .............................................................................................. 13-38

Macro Modes ..................................................................................................13-39

The Macro Table .............................................................................................13-40

How to Make a Macro File ............................................................................. 13-41

Macro Entries ..................................................................................................13-45

Using the Bank and Mode Fields ....................................................................13-46

Viewing the Object List for a Macro Entry ....................................................13-46

Unspecified Disk Drive ID ............................................................................. 13-47

The Library Disk .............................................................................................13-47

Loading Selected Entries from a Macro File .................................................. 13-49

Editing Macros ................................................................................................13-50

Macro Insert ....................................................................................................13-53

TOC-7

Table of Contents

Saving and Loading a Macro Table in a .KRZ file .........................................13-54

Aborting a Macro Load ...................................................................................13-54

Disk Utilities ...............................................................................................................13-55

Find Files .........................................................................................................13-56

List ..................................................................................................................13-57

Free ..................................................................................................................13-58

Moving Files Between Directories .................................................................13-59

Renaming Files ...............................................................................................13-60

Deleting Files and Directories .........................................................................13-61

Backup and Copy Functions .......................................................................................13-61

File Copy .........................................................................................................13-63

Creating a Startup File ................................................................................................13-63

Deleting Banks in a Startup File .....................................................................13-64

MS-DOS File System Compatibility ..........................................................................13-65

File Name Compatibility .................................................................................13-65

Importing and Exporting Data using Standard File Formats ......................................13-65

AIFF and AIFF-C Files ...................................................................................13-66

WAVE Files ....................................................................................................13-66

MIDI Type 0 Files ...........................................................................................13-66

DSP Functions .....................................................................................................................................14-1

Introduction to Algorithm Programming ......................................................................14-1

Additional Parameters .......................................................................................14-3

Filters ............................................................................................................................14-5

How to read the graphs .....................................................................................14-6

Equalization (EQ) .......................................................................................................14-22

Pitch / Amplitude / Panner ..........................................................................................14-31

Mixers .........................................................................................................................14-34

Waveforms .................................................................................................................. 14-35

Added Waveforms ......................................................................................................14-38

Non-linear Functions ...................................................................................................14-38

Waveforms Combined with Non-linear Functions .....................................................14-47

Mixers with Non-linear Inputs ....................................................................................14-49

Hard Sync Functions ...................................................................................................14-50

Sampling and Sample Editing ............................................................................................................15-1

Setting Up For Sampling ...............................................................................................15-1

Cables and Input Jacks ......................................................................................15-1

Entering The Sampler - Two Different Ways ...................................................15-1

Sampling Analog Signals ..................................................................................15-2

Recording Samples ...........................................................................................15-5

Using the Digital Outputs .............................................................................................15-8

Editing Samples ............................................................................................................15-8

The Function Soft Buttons in the Sample Editor ..............................................15-9

TRIM ...............................................................................................................15-13

The Soft Buttons on the DSP Page .................................................................15-17

DSP Functions .................................................................................................15-18

TOC-8

Table of Contents

Crossfade and Volume Adjust Curves ............................................................ 15-30

Reading Samples ......................................................................................................... 15-31

Akai .................................................................................................................15-31

Roland .............................................................................................................15-32

EPS ..................................................................................................................15-32

The Keymap Editor .....................................................................................................15-33

The Soft Buttons in the Keymap Editor .......................................................... 15-34

The Keymap Editor Parameters ......................................................................15-35

Building a Keymap ..................................................................................................... 15-37

FUNS .................................................................................................................................................... 16-1

The Mechanics of Control Sources ...............................................................................16-1

Programming the FUNs ................................................................................................ 16-2

The FUN Equations ...................................................................................................... 16-3

The List of Equations ........................................................................................16-4

.........................................................................................................................16-10

Warp Equations ............................................................................................... 16-10

Sawtooth LFOs ............................................................................................... 16-13

Chaotic LFOs ..................................................................................................16-13

Diode Equations ..............................................................................................16-14

The Order of Evaluation for FUNs ............................................................................. 16-16

Other Editors ....................................................................................................................................... 17-1

The Intonation Table Editor ..........................................................................................17-1

The Velocity Map Editor ..............................................................................................17-3

Using the Velocity Map Editor .....................................................................................17-3

The Pressure Map Editor ..............................................................................................17-6

Audio Outputs ..................................................................................................................................... 18-1

Audio Configurations ....................................................................................................18-1

Using the MIX Outputs ................................................................................................. 18-1

Using the Separate Outputs ........................................................................................... 18-2

Using Stereo Insert Cables ................................................................................18-3

Output Groups and MIDI Channels .............................................................................. 18-4

Programming Examples ..................................................................................................................... 19-1

Example 1 ..................................................................................................................... 19-1

Trumpet with Delayed Vibrato and Velocity-triggered Stabs .......................... 19-1

Example 2 ..................................................................................................................... 19-4

Lowpass Filter, Envelopes ................................................................................19-4

Example 3 ..................................................................................................................... 19-6

Sample and Hold; Using a FUN ....................................................................... 19-6

Example 4 ..................................................................................................................... 19-7

SHAPER and PANNER ................................................................................... 19-7

Example 5 ..................................................................................................................... 19-9

Building a Drum Program; Using the Keymap Editor ......................................19-9

Front Panel ..........................................................................................................................................20-1

Front Panel Quick Reference ........................................................................................20-1

Mode Button Functions .................................................................................................20-3

TOC-9

Table of Contents

.......................................................................................................................................20-4

Programs, Setups, and Keymaps .......................................................................................................21-1

K2vx Program List ........................................................................................................21-1

Setup List ......................................................................................................................21-9

........................................................................ Storing Objects in the Memory Banks 21-10

K2500 ROM Keymaps ................................................................................................21-11

Effects ................................................................................................................................................... 22-1

List of Factory Preset Global Effects and Their Configurations ..................................22-1

Effects Controller Numbers ..........................................................................................22-2

LFOs ..................................................................................................................................................... 23-1

LFO Shapes ...................................................................................................................23-1

Note Numbers and Intonation Tables ...............................................................................................24-1

K2vx Note Numbers and MIDI Note Numbers ............................................................24-1

Note Numbers for Percussion Keymaps .......................................................................24-1

5-Octave Percussion Keymaps (C2 - C7) .........................................................24-1

2-Octave Percussion Keymaps (C3 - C5) .........................................................24-2

List and Description of Intonation Tables .....................................................................24-3

Control Sources ...................................................................................................................................25-1

Control Sources .............................................................................................................25-1

Descriptions of Control sources ....................................................................................25-3

MIDI Control Source List .................................................................................25-3

Main Control Source List ..................................................................................25-6

DSP Algorithms ...................................................................................................................................26-1

Memory Upgrades and Other Options .............................................................................................27-1

Program RAM vs. Sample RAM ..................................................................................27-1

Viewing RAM Objects ......................................................................................27-1

Choosing SIMMs for Sample RAM .............................................................................27-2

Using Headphones with the K2vx ................................................................................27-2

Maintenance and Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................28-1

Preventitive Maintenance ..............................................................................................28-1

Battery selection and Replacement ...............................................................................28-1

User-callable Diagnostics .............................................................................................28-2

Maximizing Music and Minimizing Noise ...................................................................28-2

Power Problems and Solutions .....................................................................................28-4

Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................ 28-4

Other Possible Problems ...................................................................................28-5

MIDI and SCSI Sample Dumps .........................................................................................................29-1

SCSI Guidelines ............................................................................................................29-1

K2vx and Macintosh Computers .......................................................................29-2

Accessing a K2vx Internal Drive from the Mac ...............................................29-3

The MIDI Sample Dump Standard ...............................................................................29-3

SMDI Sample Transfers ................................................................................................29-7

System Exclusive Protocol ..................................................................................................................30-1

K2vx System Exclusive Implementation ......................................................................30-1

Button Press Equivalence Table .......................................................................30-7

TOC-10

Table of Contents

Glossary ............................................................................................................................................... 31-1

Specifications .......................................................................................................................................32-1

K2vx FEATURES ........................................................................................................ 32-1

Environmental Specifications ....................................................................................... 32-3

Physical Specifications ................................................................................................. 32-3

Electrical Specifications ................................................................................................32-3

MIDI Implementation Chart .........................................................................................32-4

K2vx Program Farm ............................................................................................................................ A-1

Overview of Program Files ............................................................................................ A-1

Programs Within the Files ................................................................................. A-2

ANACOMPS.K25 ......................................................................................................... A-3

ANALEADS.K25 .......................................................................................................... A-4

ANAPADS.K25 ............................................................................................................. A-5

BASS.K25 ...................................................................................................................... A-6

BELLS.K25 ................................................................................................................... A-7

BRASS.K25 ................................................................................................................... A-8

DIGITAL.K25 ............................................................................................................... A-9

DKICKSNR.K25 ......................................................................................................... A-10

DRUMS.K25 ............................................................................................................... A-11

ENSEMBLE.K25 ......................................................................................................... A-12

ETHEREAL.K25 ......................................................................................................... A-13

FXSOUNDS.K25 ......................................................................................................... A-14

GUITARS.K25 ............................................................................................................ A-15

HYBPERC.K25 ........................................................................................................... A-16

HYBRIDS.K25 ............................................................................................................ A-17

ORGANS.K25 ............................................................................................................. A-18

PNOEPNO.K25 ........................................................................................................... A-19

STRINGS.K25 ............................................................................................................. A-20

VOX.K25 ..................................................................................................................... A-21

K2vx Compatibility ...............................................................................................................................B-1

K2vx Compatibility Files ................................................................................................B-1

Converting K2vx Files to K2vx Files .............................................................................B-2

Converting programs from the K2vx to K2vx ................................................................B-3

Programs using Drum samples ...........................................................................B-3

Effects Programs .................................................................................................B-3

Keymaps .............................................................................................................B-3

Orchestral ROM .................................................................................................................................. C-1

Contemporary ROM ........................................................................................................................... D-1

TOC-11

Table of Contents

TOC-12

Introduction

Overview of the K2vx

Chapter 1 Introduction

Welcome!

Congratulations, and thanks for purchasing the Kurzweil/Young Chang K2vx! YouÕve got your hands on an extremely capable musical instrument packed with great acoustic, electric, and synth soundsÑcombined with some of the most advanced synthesis features available, which you can use to create almost any sound imaginable.

Overview of the K2vx

The K2vx has been designed to be a versatile instrument both for performance, and for multitimbral sequencing and recording. Its Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology lets you build sounds from realistic instrumental samples and sampled synth waveformsÑthen modify the nature of those sounds through a dazzling array of digital signal processing (DSP) functions. The K2vx also generates its own synth waveforms, which can be combined with the samples or used on their own. The K2vx packs 8 Megabytes of on-board sound ROM, and you can load samples from disk into optional sample RAM.

Before we get into explaining Variable Architecture Synthesis, here are a few of the features that by themselves make the K2vx an impressive stage and studio machine. ItÕs fully multitimbralÑdifferent programs can be played on each MIDI channel. ItÕs 48-note polyphonic, for a full sound no matter how many chords you play. ThereÕs an on-board digital effects processor, providing up to four simultaneous effects, including realtime effects control, internally or via MIDI.

In addition to the standard stereo audio output pair, there are eight separate outputs that can be conÞgured as stereo pairs, or as individual mono outputs. You can also use the separate outputs as insert points for outboard gear.

The K2vx offers eight SIMM sockets (single, in-line memory modules) so you can add optional sample RAM, where you can store samples that youÕve loaded from disk. You can add up to 128 megabytes of sample RAM! (Sample RAM is not battery-backed, so RAM samples are erased from memory when you power down.)

For ofßine storage, thereÕs also a ßoppy drive and two ßoppies or on an external hard disk or load them from a CD-ROM drive. The two SCSI ports make it easy to chain multiple SCSI devices together. ThereÕs also provision for an internal SCSI hard disk. YouÕll Þnd all this storage potential extremely useful for saving and loading samples, which can be transferred to and from the K2vx using the standard MIDI sample transfer format, or the new, faster, parallel SMDI sample transfer format (SCSI Musical Data Interchange). See the Reference Guide for information about MIDI and SMDI sample transfers.

SCSI ports, so you can store Þles on

The K2vxÕs battery-backed RAM will store about 400 of your own programs, or 30,000 notes recorded in the sequencer. This sequencer (Song mode) lets you play back MIDI type 0 sequences, record and play back your own songs, and record multi-timbral sequences received via MIDI. For more onboard storage you can add the P/RAM option, which will increase your battery-backed RAM to about 1280K, enough to store hundreds of additional programs, setups, songs, and other objects .

The Local Keyboard Channel feature enables you to use the K2vxÕs tri-zone setups even if your MIDI controller can transmit on only one channel. The K2vx will also rechannelize incoming

1-1

Introduction

How to use this manual

MIDI information and send it to its MIDI Out port, enabling you to control additional synths on three different channels.

An optional sampling feature is available, allowing you to make your own mono or stereo samples using analog or digital inputs.

And, of course, thereÕs the incomparable Kurzweil sound. The K2vx comes to you with 200 preset factory programs (called patches, presets, voices, etc. on other synths), as well as 100 multi-zone performance setups. Play them straight from the box, tweak them in any number of ways, or develop your own programs from scratchÑwhich brings us back to the powerful programming capabilities of the K2vx.

What is VAST?

Variable Architecture Synthesis gives the K2vx its unprecedented ßexibility. While many other

synthesizers offer a Þxed set of the K2vxÕs Variable Architecture lets you arrange a combination of any Þve DSP functions from a long list of choices. The functions you choose deÞne the type of synthesis you use.

DSP tools (typically Þltering, pitch, and amplitude modulation)

Each layer of every program has its own DSP architecture, what we call an algorithm . Within each algorithm, you can select from a variety of DSP functions. Each function can be independently controlled by a variety of sources including LFOs, ASRs, envelopes, a set of unique programmable functions (FUNs), as well as any MIDI control message. The many different DSP functions and the wealth of independent control sources give you an extremely ßexible, truly vast collection of tools for sound creation and modiÞcation.

How the K2vx Works

The K2vx integrates two MIDI-driven components: a sound engine, and a global effects processor. The sound engine responds to the MIDI events generated by your MIDI controller and turns them into sounds that are processed within the variable architecture of the algorithms. The resulting sound can then be routed through the effects processor and to the MIX or separate audio outputs.

How to use this manual

This manual includes the following:

how to connect and power up your K2vx, getting around the front panel, and a brief

•

description of the operating modes.

basic editing, including the normal operations of each operating mode.

•

the advanced programming features that make the K2vx so powerfulÑa number of

•

familiar synthesis tools and quite a few new ones.

Even if youÕre a complete techie, you should read Chapter 3, User Interface Basics. Here youÕll get a tour of the K2vxÕs front panel and learn how to navigate through the major functions.

1-2

Chapter 4 describes the concept and operation of the K2vxÕs eight operating modes, with a brief description of each. Chapters 6 through 13 describe each mode in detail, including the editors contained within them. Chapters 14 through 17 discuss the advanced editing features. Chapter 18 shows you how to use the multiple audio outputs to suit your needs. Chapter 19 is a programming tutorial, giving you speciÞc examples of many of the K2vxÕs programming functions. Some are basic, some are advanced. By working through the tutorials, youÕll become familiar with many synthesis techniques, and youÕll get a Þrst-hand look at how to unleash the power of the K2vx.

How to use this manual

When manual text appears in boldface italic ( like this ), youÕll Þnd it described in the Glossary in the Reference Guide . Only the Þrst one or two occurrences of these words are highlighted.

The best way to read this manual is with your K2vx in front of you. By trying the examples we give to illustrate various functions, you can get a quick understanding of the basics, then move on to the more advanced features.

If you like to Þgure out your equipment for yourself, and normally use manuals only as reference sources, youÕll probably get the most use out of the Reference Guide that accompanies this manual, which contains brief descriptions of the K2vxÕs major operating features, and all sorts of useful listsÑ programs , keymaps , algorithms , effects, control sources , and more. A glossary and complete speciÞcations for the K2vx are also included in the Reference Guide.

Introduction

1-3

Introduction

How to use this manual

1-4

Startup

Startup—the Details

Chapter 2 Startup

If hooking up new gear is familiar to you, and you just want to get going, hereÕs a quick description of all the basic things you need to cover to get started with your K2vx. If you need more information, thorough descriptions of each step follow. In either case, check out ÒPlaying the Presets,Ó later in this chapter.

Basic Startup Checklist:

Install the supplied batteries. See "Battery Installation" on page 2-2.

•

Mount your K2vxR securely in a standard 19-inch MIDI rack, or set it on a hard ßat

•

surface. Make sure to leave plenty of room for ventilation.

If you will be transporting the rack containing the K2vxR, be sure to support the back of

•

the unit. ItÕs fairly heavy, and you donÕt want your K2vxR to get damaged when you

move the rack around.

Connect the power cable.

•

Make sure your sound system is at a safe volume level.

•

Plug in a pair of stereo headphones or run standard (1/4-inch) audio cables from your

•

ampliÞer or mixer to the MIX audio outputs on the K2vx (Use the MIX L out for mono).

ItÕs good practice to make the cable connection to the K2vx (or any instrument) last, since

this will reduce the chance of creating static electricity that can cause an audible "pop"

(and, in extreme cases, cause equipment damage).

Connect a MIDI cable from the MIDI Out port of your MIDI controller to the MIDI In port

•

of the K2vx.

Power up and start jamming.

•

If you hear distortion, reduce the gain on your mixing board, or use the pad if it has one.

•

Scroll through the Program list with the Alpha Wheel (the large knob to the right of the

•

display).

If your MIDI controller can transmit on more than one MIDI channel, check out Setup

•

mode by pressing the Setup mode button. Then use the Alpha Wheel to select tri-zone

setups with independent programs, MIDI channels and controller assignments in each

zone.

Press the Quick Access mode button and use the numeric keys to select from

•

programmable banks of ten programs or setups.

If you donÕt hear anything, review these steps, or check the Troubleshooting section in the

•

Reference Guide .

Startup—the Details

This section will walk you through the hookup of your K2vx. WeÕll take a look at the rear panel, then describe the power, audio, and other cable connections.

Before You Start...

DonÕt connect anything until you make sure your K2vx is properly and safely situated. Also, if your K2vx has been out in the cold, give the unit a little time to warm up to room temperature before starting it, since condensation may have formed inside the K2vx.

YouÕll probably be mounting the K2vx in a standard 19-inch MIDI rack (it takes up three rack spaces). If you will be transporting the rack containing the K2vxR, be sure to support the back of the K2vx within the rack.

If youÕre not installing the K2vx in a rack, it should rest on a hard ßat surface. In this case, it

must rest on its rubber feet (supplied in the packing carton), and NOT on the bottom panel.

2-1

Startup

The Rear Panel

NEVER block the ventilation openings on the bottom or rear panels; doing so can cause

overheating and serious damage. To provide adequate ventilation, the rear panel should be at least four inches from any vertical surface. There are no user-serviceable parts in the K2vx . Under no circumstances should you attempt to remove any panels (except for battery installation or replacement). If you attempt to open your K2vx, youÕll risk electric shock, and youÕll void your product warranty.

The Rear Panel

Battery Installation

WeÕve included three AA batteries for your K2vxÕs battery-backed RAM. We didnÕt install the batteries at the factory because they would drain during shipping. You should install the batteries before you start up your K2vx.

Locate the battery compartment in the lower right-hand corner of the rear panel (refer the illustration on the following page). Remove the battery compartment cover by inserting a ßathead screwdriver or coin into its slot, then turning it counterclockwise until it pops out. Slide the three batteries, all positive side out, into the compartment. Install the battery compartment cover by lining up the tabs, pushing the cap inward, then turning it 90 your unit for the Þrst time after installing the batteries, it will take a few minutes to initialize all of its memory. This will not happen on every power up.

. When you start up

Connecting the Power Cable (Line Cord)

The K2vx runs on 100-, 120-, 220-, or 240-Volt AC power at 50Ñ60 Hz. Your dealer will set the voltage switch to match the voltage in your area. The voltage level is set with a selector on the rear panel of the keyboard models of the K2vx. On the K2vxR, however, the voltage setting can only be changed by an authorized Kurzweil service center.

As you face the rear panel of the K2vx, the power connector is toward the righthand side. When youÕve connected the cable at the K2vx end, plug it into a grounded outlet. If your power source does not have the standard three-hole outlet, you should take the time to install a proper grounding system. This will assure you of avoiding problems with audio hum, and will reduce the risk of a shock hazard.

Connecting the Audio Cables

Did you turn down the level on your PA yet?!

After youÕve turned down the level on your sound system, you can rig the K2vxÕs audio connections using a pair of mono audio cables. YouÕll Þnd ten 1/4-inch jacks near the top of the rear panel. For now, connect one end of each audio cable to your mixing board or PA system inputs, and connect the other end to the jacks marked MIX L and R on the rear panel of the K2vx. If you have only one input available, use the K2vxÕs MIX L output to get the full signal in mono.

ItÕs always a good idea to make the cable connection to the K2vx (or any instrument) after youÕve made your other audio connections, since this will reduce the chance of creating static electricity that can cause an audible "pop" (and, in extreme cases, cause equipment damage). Turn to Chapter 18 for more detailed information about the K2vxÕs audio conÞguration.

Connecting MIDI

The simplest MIDI conÞguration uses a single MIDI cable, from the MIDI Out port of your MIDI controller to the MIDI In port of the K2vx. There are all sorts of possible conÞgurations, including additional synths, personal computers, MIDI effects processors, and MIDI patch bays. Depending on your system, you may want to use the K2vxÕs MIDI Thru port to pass MIDI information from your MIDI controller to the K2vx and on to the next device in your system. You can also connect MIDI devices to the K2vxÕs MIDI Out port, which can send channelized MIDI information from your MIDI controller. See the discussion of the Local Keyboard Channel parameter in Chapter 10.

2-2

Startup

The Rear Panel

NOTE: You can perform a quick check of the K2vxR and your audio system without a MIDI controller connected to the K2vxR. Hold down the CANCEL button on the alphanumeric pad and press any other alphanumeric button, and you should hear notes. See "The Panel Play Feature" in Chapter 3 for more information about this feature.

Power

Optical Out

KDS Output

MIDI

Audio Outs

MIDI Select

Thru / OutOutThru / OutInSCSI

Mfr: Serial No.

SCSI Thru

OutIn

Digital

THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION.

Connecting SCSI

You may not have a hard disk or other SCSI device to connect to your K2vx right away, but if you do, you can connect it to either of the SCSI ports. Please read the following information carefully; itÕs very important.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you plan to connect more than one SCSI device to the K2vx (including an Apple Macintosh Ò ), you must terminate your SCSI chain properly. Turn to Chapter 13 and read the section called ÒSCSI Termination.Ó You can lose data, and possibly damage your K2vx and SCSI devices if theyÕre not terminated properly.

Switching On the Power

RLLR

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE

ATTENTION:

NE PAS OUVRIR

WARNING:

TO REDUCE RISK OF FIRE OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

Mix

RLLR

WARNING:

FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST THE RISK OF FIRE, REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE AND RATING OF FUSE.

ATTENTION:

Made in KoreaYoung Chang Akki, Co., LTD

UTILISER UN FUSIBLE DE

RECHANGE DE MEME TYPE.

100/120V ~ T 2.00A 250V SLOW-BLOW 220/240V ~ T 1.00A 250V SLOW-BLOW

100/120/220/240V ~ AC

1.5/0.75A 48-65HZ

Batteries

The power switch is located at the lower left of the front panel. When you power up, the display will brießy say ÒWelcome to the K2vx!Ó The Program Mode display will then appear. It looks like the diagram below (the programs shown in the diagram donÕt necessarily exist):

ProgramMode||||Xpose:0ST|||<>Channel:1||

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!@ |198|Analog|Jam||||||

KeyMap|Info||||||| # | 199|Default|Program|

Grand|Piano||||| | # | ||1|Righteous|Piano|

|||||||||||||||||| # |||2|Mondo|Bass|||||| |||||||||||||||||| # |||3|Killer|Drums||||

%%%%%%^%%%%%%^%%%%$ | | |4|Wee p ing|Gu i tar||

Octav- | Octav+ | Panic| | View|| | Chan-| | Chan+

Set the volume at a comfortable level. YouÕll get the best signal-to-noise ratio if you keep the K2vx at full volume (turn the volume knob fully clockwise), and adjust the level from your mixing board. You may also want to adjust the display contrast. This is done with the Contrast parameter in Master mode. See Chapter 11. As you trigger notes from your MIDI controller, youÕll see the MIDI LED ßash. If it doesnÕt ßash, check your MIDI cables and connections.

2-3

Startup

Playing the Presets

There are three things youÕll want to check out right away: programs, setups and Quick Access banks. In performance situations, youÕll be selecting your sounds using one of these three methods.

Programs

The K2vx powers up in Program mode, where you can select and play programs stored in

ROM or RAM . Programs are preset sounds composed of one to three layers of samples or

waveformsÑtheyÕre called patches, voices, and presets on other instruments. If youÕve left Program mode, just press the Program mode button to return.

Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the Program mode display. It gives you some helpful basic information, like the MIDI transposition, what MIDI channel youÕre on, and which program is currently selected. The box at the left of the display tells you which keymap is used by each layer of the current program (a keymap is a collection of samples). The line under each keymap name gives a rough indication of the keyboard range of the layer. In the Þgure below, the Grand Piano keymap covers the full range from C 0 to C 8. You can change MIDI channels with the Chan- and Chan+ buttons under the display. You can transpose by octaves by pressing the Octav buttons under the display (if the LocalKbdCh parameter on the RECV page in MIDI mode matches the transmitting channel of your MIDI controllerÑsee Chapter 10). The bottom line of the display identiÞes the function of each of the buttons beneath the display.

ProgramMode||||Xpose:0ST|||<>Channel:1||

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!@|199|Default|Program| KeyMap|Info|||||||#|200*Crystal|Horn|||| |Grand|Piano||||||#|||1|Righteous|Piano| ||||||||||||||||||#|||2|Mondo|Bass|||||| ||||||||||||||||||#|||3|Killer|Drums|||| %%%%%%^%%%%%%^%%%%$|||4|Weeping|Guitar|| Octav-|Octav+|Panic||View|||Chan-||Chan+

When you want to change programs, you have several options. The K2vx has six different settings for responding to MIDI program change commands. These are explained in Chapter 10, so we wonÕt go into them here. You should be able to change programs by sending program change commands from your MIDI controller. Of course, you can always change programs from the K2vxÕs front panel using the Alpha Wheel. Turning it left or right will scroll through the program list. Press the View soft button to see the current program in large type. Press it again to return to the normal view. You can also change programs using the cursor buttons, or the Plus/Minus buttons under the Alpha Wheel. You can also use the CHAN/BANK buttons or the cursor buttons while in Program mode.

Be sure to try whatever performance controls your MIDI controller has: the Pitch Wheel, Mod Wheel, and switch or control pedalsÑdifferent programs respond to them in different ways. Attack velocity and aftertouch also have varying effects. Check the tear-out sheets at the back of this manual for lists of factory programs and setups. ThereÕs also a list of programs in the Reference Guide, describing how each program responds to speciÞc MIDI control messages.

If you donÕt hear anything, see the troubleshooting section in the Reference Guide.

2-4

Setups

Setups are preset combinations of programs. Each setup has three zones, each of which can be assigned to any range of the keyboard (overlapping or split). Each zone can have its own program, MIDI channel, and MIDI control assignments. You can make use of setups even if your MIDI controller can transmit on only one MIDI channel at a time. See the parameter called Local Keyboard Channel in Chapter 10.

Press the Setup mode button to the left of the display. Its LED will light, telling you that youÕre in Setup mode. Notice that the Setup mode display is similar to the Program mode display. The box at the left shows you the programs assigned to each of the setupÕs three zones, and which MIDI channel is used for each program. Press the View button to toggle between large type and normal view.

SetupMode||||||Xpose:0ST||||||||||||||||

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!@|201*Friday|Gig|||||| Chan/Program|Info|#|202*Bop|Rock|Reggae| 1||||9|Cool|Traps|#|||1|Jazz|Trio||||||| 2|||18|Sly|Acoust|#|||2|All|Percussion|| 3|||22*Izit|Jimmy|#|||3|Heavy|Metal||||| %%%%%%^%%%%%%^%%%%$|||4|To|Sequencer|||| Octav-|Octav+|Panic||View|||||||||||||||

Quick Access

A really convenient way to select programs and setups is to use Quick Access mode, where you select a Quick Access bank from a list of factory preset or user-programmed banks. Each bank contains ten memory slots, or entries, where you can store any combination of programs or setups. While youÕre in Quick Access mode, any program or setup can be selected with the numeric buttons 0 through 9.

Startup

Playing the Presets

The K2vx comes with a few Quick Access banks already programmed so you can get an idea of how they work. YouÕll probably create your own Quick Access banks to help you select programs and setups with a minimum of searching. Press the Quick Access mode button to the left of the display. Its LED lights, to tell you youÕre in Quick Access mode. YouÕll see a display that looks like this:

QuickAccessMode|||<>Bank:1|For|Show|1|||

Silk|Rhodes|||POLY|TOUCH||||Voice+String NastyTrombone|SINK|MONSTA|||Waterflute|| Soon||||||||||Jazz|Trio|2|||Fretless|Bas ||||||||||||||VELVETEEN|||||||||||||||||

||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

|Xpose:0ST|||SINK|MONSTA||||||||Chan:1|| Octav-|Octav+|Panic||View|||Chan-||Chan+

The top line of the display tells you which Quick Access bank is selected. Use the CHAN/ BANK buttons (to the left of the display) to scroll through the banks. The names of each of the ten entries in the bank are listed in the center of the display. Many of their names will be abbreviated. The currently selected entryÕs full name is shown near the bottom of the display. The amount of transposition is displayed to the left of the entry name. If the current entry is a program, youÕll see the current keyboard (MIDI) channel displayed to the right of the entryÕs name. If itÕs a setup, youÕll see the word ÒSetup.Ó

The entries on the Quick Access page are arranged to correspond to the layout of the numeric buttons on the alphanumeric pad. On the page above, for example, the program ÒSINK MONSTAÓ is entry 5, and can be selected by pressing 5 on the alphanumeric pad.

The Panic button (the button below the word ÒPanicÓ in the bottom line of the display) will send an All Notes Off and an All Controllers Off message to the K2vx, and over all 16 MIDI channels. Press the View button to show the currently selected bank entry in large type. Press it again to return to the normal view.

When youÕre ready to create your own Quick Access banks, turn to Chapter 8 to learn about the Quick Access Editor.

2-5

Startup

Performance Controls

From your MIDI controller

The K2vx responds to attack velocity and release velocity, as well as mono and poly pressure (aftertouch) messages. It will also respond to most standard MIDI control parameters; see ÒMIDI and Setup Control Parameters" below.

Volume knob

The Volume knob controls the volume at the MIX (stereo) audio outputs and at the headphone jack. The individual outputs and MIDI volume are not affected by this knob.

MIDI and Setup Control Parameters

The K2vx responds to most standard MIDI control messages, including Pitch Wheel, Mod Wheel, switch pedals, control pedals, and control sliders. The K2vxÕs response to these controls is set on the XMIT (Transmit) page in MIDI mode, and works in conjunction with the Local Keyboard Channel parameter on the RECV (Receive) page in MIDI mode. This is described fully in Chapter 10. For now, youÕll probably Þnd that the K2vx responds predictably to most of these controls. If you want to change its response, turn to Chapter 10 and read the section covering the Local Keyboard Channel parameter.

You can also use the K2vx to relay control messages from your MIDI controller to other MIDI devices connected to the K2vxÕs MIDI Out port. This is also controlled by the Local Keyboard Channel parameter (MIDI RECV page) in combination with the settings for the control parameters on the MIDI XMIT (transmit) page or the Setup mode page.

K2vx Boot Loader

The Boot Loader lets you install a new K2vx operating system and/or new K2vx ROM objects, from a SCSI device or the ßoppy drive into ßash ROM. The Boot Loader also provides hard reset and diagnostics options.

Note: Your K2vx comes from the factory with the operating system and ROM objects already installed. You do not need to run the K2vx Boot Loader to start up a new K2vx.

Starting the Boot Loader

When you start the K2vx, it displays a "Please wait..." message and waits for approximately 2 seconds. Press and release the Exit key while the "Please wait..." message is displayed to start the boot loader. Otherwise, the K2vx will start up normally.

The Boot LoaderÕs Menus resemble K2vx dialog boxes. That is, they consist of a series of labels and a highlight bar that is used to select one of the labels. You can use the arrow keys to move the highlight bar up, down, right, and left. Press the OK soft button to invoke the highlighted menu option. Additionally, the data wheel and Enter key may be used to move the highlight bar and invoke the selected action.

Boot-loader Main Menu:

2-6

When the boot loader is Þrst invoked, its main menu is displayed, as shown below.

-------|K2vx|Boot|Loader|v1.01|------||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||Install|System|||||Hard|Reset||||||| |||Install|Objects||||Run|Diags|||||||| |||Run|System|||||||||Fixed|Diags|||||| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||OK|||

Initially, the "Install System" option is highlighted. After invoking various actions, however, other options may be selected by default, as the context suggests, upon returning to this menu.

Install System / Install Objects

Use "Install System" to install the K2vx operating system and diagnostics by loading them from a ßoppy or from a SCSI device and programming them into Flash ROM. Use "Install Objects" to install ROM objects into Flash ROM. After either option is invoked, a dialog box such as the following will be displayed.

||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| ||Device|to|install|from:||floppy|||||| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| ||||SCSI|ID|of|this|unit:||N/A||||||||| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||Cancel|||OK|

From this dialog box, you can select which device contains the system or ROM-objects Þle. This is done using the alpha wheel, the + and - keys, and the cursor control keys in the same way that the K2vx engine software does. If you choose to install from a SCSI device, the SCSI ID of this unit will change from "N/A" to "SCSI 6." If there is another device on your SCSI bus with an ID of 6, you will need to change the SCSI ID of this unit to a free SCSI ID. At this point you can continue by hitting the OK soft-button or abort the operation by pressing the one labeled Cancel. Canceling the operation will return you to the Boot Loader menu, and the "Run System" option will be highlighted.

Startup

K2vx Boot Loader

When you press OK, the K2vx will try to access the drive in question and scan it for Þles. If it is successful, a screen such as the following will then appear:

|||||||||||||||||||||||FILE1.KOS||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||DIR1||||<DIR>||| |||||||||||||||||||||||FILE1.K25||||||| |||||File|to|Install:||FILE1.KRZ||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||VLABEL|||<VOL>|| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||NewDrv|Root|Parent||Cancel|||OK|

While this screen is displayed, you can use the up and down cursor keys, the alpha wheel, or the + and - keys to highlight different items in the Þle list. Names that have "<DIR>" displayed to their right are sub-directories. If the disk has a volume label, it will be displayed in the list, marked with "<VOL>." Operating system Þles typically have a ".KOS" extension, while ROM object Þles have a ".KRZ" extension. The OK soft-button selects the highlighted Þle for loading, or changes to the highlighted directory. The Cancel button aborts the installation and returns to the menu. Parent changes to the current directory's parent directory, while Root changes to the disk's root directory. The NewDrv button returns to the previous screen, allowing you to choose a different drive from which to install.

After you select a Þle by pressing the OK button, you will be asked to conÞrm the installation. The K2vx will display a message of the form "Ready to install operating system from Þlename on device" or "Ready to install ROM objects from Þlename on device." When it displays this message, it will Þll in Þlename and device with the name of the Þle and device you have selected. To conÞrm that you want to proceed, press the OK soft-button. If you do so, you will not be able to interrupt the installation. Alternatively, the Cancel button will return you to the menu, or the Choose button will allow you to select a different device or Þle from which to install.

2-7

Startup

K2vx Boot Loader

Run System

While the K2vx is installing the Þle into Flash ROM, the top line of the display will gradually Þll to indicate the progress of the operation. Note that operating system Þles and ROM object Þles are of different formats. If you try to install a Þle using the incorrect menu option, the K2vx will think the Þle is corrupt and will refuse to install it into Flash ROM. If this happens, simply choose the correct menu option from the Boot Loader's main menu, and repeat the installation.

If there is a problem accessing the drive or installing the Þle, an error message will be displayed. At this point, you can (1) abort the operation with the Abort soft button and return to the menu, (2) press the Retry button to try the operation again, or (3) choose another device or Þle by pressing the Choose button.

The "Run System" option executes the engine software. When this option is invoked, the operating system and ROM setups are checked for integrity. If either does not appear to be installed, a message will be displayed explaining this. If this happens, you can (1) double press the Run Anyhow soft buttons and be given a chance to try to run the system anyhow, knowing that the machine might crash, (2) install the uninstalled portion with the Instal button, or (3) return to the menu by using the Menu button. If you do the latter, the menu will be displayed with the "Load System" or "Load Setups" option highlighted as appropriate.

Hard Reset

The "Hard Reset" option causes all user RAM to be erased. When you select this option, a strict warning message is displayed. You must press the up and down cursor keys simultaneously to actually erase the RAM. If you push any other button or turn the data wheel, the operation is aborted, and the menu is displayed with the "Run System" option highlighted. Otherwise, the RAM will be marked for re-initialization, and a message declaring this fact will appear prior to return to the menu. When the menu reappears, it will have the "Run System" option highlighted.

Run Diags

The "Run Diags" option executes the diagnostics that are loaded with the system. When you choose "Run Diags", the K2vx checks its operating system for integrity. If it does not appear to be installed, a message will be displayed explaining this. If this happens, you can (1) double press the Run Anyhow soft buttons and be given a chance to try to run the diagnostics anyhow, knowing that the machine might crash, (2) install the operating system with the Instal button, or (3) return to the menu by using the Menu button. If you do the latter, the menu will be displayed with the "Load System" or "Load Setups" option highlighted as appropriate. Some diagnostic tests erase the non-volatile user RAM, and you will be warned of this fact before continuing.

Restart your K2vx to leave the diagnostics and return to regular operation.

Fixed Diags

The "Fixed Diags" option executes the diagnostics that are contained in the boot block. Some diagnostic tests erase the non-volatile user RAM, and you will be warned of this fact before continuing.

2-8

Restart your K2vx to leave the diagnostics and return to regular operation.

User Interface Basics

Mode Selection

Chapter 3 User Interface Basics

Chapter 3 will show you how to get around the front panel of your K2vx. Your interactions can be divided into three primary operations: mode selection, navigation, and data entry.

Mode Selection

The K2vx is always in one of eight operating modes. The modes are selected by pressing one of the eight buttons beneath the displayÑthe ones with LEDs to their right. Selecting a mode gives you access to a large set of related parameters. Only one mode can be selected at a time. The modes are:

•

PROGRAM MODE: Select and play programs, and modify them with the Program

Editor . Rearrange and modify samples in the Keymap and Sample Editors.

•

SETUP MODE: Select and play setups (three keyboard zones with independent MIDI channel, program and control assignments), and modify them with the Setup Editor.

•

QUICK ACCESS MODE: Select from a list of preset banks, each containing a list of ten programs and/or setups that can be viewed in the display for easy selection. Modify the preset banks and create your own with the Quick Access Editor.

•

EFFECTS MODE: DeÞne the behavior of the on-board global effects processor. Modify the preset effects and create your own with the Effects Editor.

•

MIDI MODE: DeÞne how your K2vx sends and receives MIDI information, and conÞgure each channel to receive independent program, volume, and pan messages that override the normal Program mode settings.

•

MASTER MODE: DeÞne performance and control characteristics for the entire K2vx.

•

SONG MODE: Use the K2vxÕs sequencer to record and play back your keyboard performance, play type 0 MIDI sequences, and record multi-timbral sequences received via MIDI.

•

DISK MODE: Interface with the K2vxÕs ßoppy disk drive, an external SCSI device, or an optional internal SCSI disk to load and save programs, setups, samples, and more.

Mode Buttons

The mode buttons are labeled in white. When you press a mode button, the LED to its right lights up to indicate that the mode has been selected. If pressing a mode button does not light its LED, press the EXIT button one or more times, then try again.

The green labeling under each mode button indicates special functions that relate to some of the K2vxÕs editors. These functions are described in Chapter 5.

Navigation

The navigation section of the front panel consists of the display and the buttons surrounding it. These navigation buttons will take you to every one of the K2vxÕs programming parameters.

The Display

Your primary interface with the K2vx is its backlit graphic display. As you press various buttons, this ßuorescent display reßects the commands you enter and the editing changes you make. The ample size of the display (240-by-64 pixels ) enables you to view lots of information at one time.

3-1

User Interface Basics

Mode Selection

Pages

ProgramMode||||Xpose:0ST|||<>Channel:1||

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!@ |200*Analog|Jam||||||

KeyMap|Info||||||| # | 202*Heart|Strings|||

Grand|Piano||||| | # | ||1|Righteous|Piano|

|||||||||||||||||| # |||2|Mondo|Bass|||||| |||||||||||||||||| # |||3|Killer|Drums||||

%%%%%%^%%%%%%^%%%%$ | | |4|Wee p ing|Gu i tar||

Octav- | Octav+ | Panic| | View|| | Chan-| | Chan+

Within each mode, the functions and parameters are organized into smaller, related groups that appear together in the display. Each one of these single-screen groups of parameters is called a

page . Each mode has what we call an entry level page; itÕs the page that appears when you

select that mode with one of the mode buttons. Within each mode and its editor(s), the various pages are selected with the navigation buttons. There are many pages, but there are a few features common to each page. The diagram below shows the entry level page for Program mode.

The T op Line

On the top line of most pages, thereÕs a reminder of which mode youÕre in and which page youÕre on. Many pages display additional information in the top line, as well. The Program mode page above, for example, shows you the current amount of MIDI transposition and the currently selected MIDI channel. The top line is almost always ÒreversedÓÑthat is, it has a white background with blue characters.

The Bottom Line

The bottom line is divided into six (sometimes fewer) sets of reversed characters that serve as labels for the six buttons directly beneath the display. These labelsÑand the functions of the buttonsÑchange depending on the currently selected page. Consequently the buttons that select these functions are called ÒsoftÓ buttons.

The Soft Buttons

The soft buttons are called ÒsoftÓ because their functions change depending on the currently selected mode. Sometimes they perform speciÞc functions, like changing MIDI channels in Program mode. In the Program Editor, theyÕre also used to move to different pages of programming parameters.

The Cursor Buttons

To the right of the display are four buttons arranged in a diamond fashion. These are called the cursor buttons. They move the cursor around the currently selected page, in the direction indicated by their labels. The cursor is is a highlighted (reversed) rectangle (sometimes itÕs an underscore). It marks the value of the currently selected parameter.

3-2

Programming the K2vx involves selecting various parameters and changing their values. Parameters are selected by highlighting their values with the cursor. The highlighted value can be changed with any of the data entry methods described in the data entry section below.

han/Bank

Layer/Zone

ower

dit

rogram

Mute 1 Zoom -

2500RS

Access

etup

QS E MIDI

Mute 2

Mute 3

Zoom +

Samp/Sec

Sampler

FX Bypass

Navigation Data Entry

echnology

TSAV

ynthesisrchitectureariable

ffects

Previous Pg

Gain -

Mark Gain +

aster

Jump

Link

xit

ong

isk

Compare

MIDI

UPPER/lower

User Interface Basics

Mode Selection

ptical In

DEF

MNO

VWX

0-9

nter

eadphone

GHI

PQR

CLR

Space

ABC

JKL

STU

ancel

olume

Right

Tip=Left

Ring=Right

Left

Mode Selection

The MIDI LED

Below the cursor buttons is a red LED labeled MIDI. This LED will ßash whenever the K2vx receives MIDI information from your MIDI controller.

The CHAN/BANK Buttons

To the left of the display are two buttons labeled ÒCHAN/BANK.Ó Their function is related to the two small arrowsÑ <|> Ñthat appear in the top line of many different pages. When you see these arrows, you can use the CHAN/BANK buttons to scroll the values of the parameter that appears to the right of the arrows. The arrows donÕt have to appear in the top line, however, for the CHAN/BANK buttons to have an effect. In Program mode, for example, they shift through the MIDI channels, showing the program assigned to each channel.

When youÕre in the Program editor, the CHAN/BANK buttons let you view each layer in the program. You can see the corresponding parameters in each layer by scrolling through the layers with these buttons. In the Setup editor, the CHAN/BANK buttons scroll through the zones in the current setup. In Quick Access mode, they scroll through the Quick Access banks, and in Song mode they scroll through record tracks.

WeÕll let you know, when applicable, what the CHAN/BANK buttons do.

The EDIT Button

The EDIT button activates each of the K2vxÕs editors, and acts as a shortcut to many pages within the Program Editor. Pressing the EDIT button tells the K2vx that you want to change some aspect of the object marked by the cursor. For example, when a program is selected and you press EDIT, you enter the Program Editor. If a setup is selected, you enter the Setup Editor.

There are editors accessible from every mode except Disk mode. To enter an editor, choose one of the modes (mode selection), and press EDIT. An editing page for that mode will appear. You can then select parameters (navigation) and change their values (data entry). If the value of the selected parameter has its own editing page, pressing the EDIT button will take you to that

3-3

User Interface Basics

Data Entry

page. For example, in the Program Editor, on the PITCH page, you might see LFO1 assigned as the value for Pitch Control Source 1. If you select this parameter (the cursor will highlight its valueÑLFO1 in this case), then press the EDIT button, youÕll jump to the page where you can edit the parameters of LFO1. Naturally, you can Þnd every page in the current editor by using the soft buttons, but often itÕs easier to use the EDIT button shortcut.

The EXIT Button

Press EXIT to leave the current editor. If youÕve changed the value of any parameter while in that editor, the K2vx will ask you whether you want to save your changes before you can leave the editor. See Chapter 5 for information on saving and naming. The EXIT button also takes you to Program mode if youÕre on the entry level page of one of the other modes. If at some point you canÕt seem to get where you want to go, press EXIT one or more times to return to Program mode, then try again.

The data entry section of the front panel includes the Alpha wheel, the Plus/Minus buttons, and the 14-button alphanumeric pad.

The Alpha Wheel

The Alpha Wheel is especially useful because it can quickly enter large or small changes in value. If you turn the Alpha Wheel one click to the right, youÕll increase the value of the currently selected parameter by one increment. One click to the left decreases the value by one increment. If you turn it rapidly, youÕll jump by several increments.

The Plus/Minus Buttons

These buttons are located just under the Alpha Wheel. The Plus button increases the value of the currently selected parameter by one, and the Minus button decreases it by one. These buttons are most useful when youÕre scrolling through a short list of values, or when you want to be sure youÕre changing the value by one increment at a time. One press of the Plus or Minus button corresponds to one click to the right or left with the Alpha Wheel. These buttons will repeat if pressed and held.

Pressing the Plus and Minus buttons simultaneously will move you through the current list of values in large chunks instead of one by one. Often this is in even increments (10, 100, etc.). DonÕt confuse these buttons with the +/- button on the alphanumeric pad. This button is used primarily for entering negative numeric values and switching from uppercase to lowercase letters (and vice versa).

The Alphanumeric Pad

As its name implies, this set of 14 buttons lets you enter numeric values, and to enter names one character at a time. Depending on where you are, the K2vx automatically enters letters or numerals as appropriate (you donÕt have to select between alphabetic or numeric entry).

3-4

When youÕre entering numeric values, press the corresponding numeric buttons, ignoring decimal places if any (to enter 1.16, for example, press 1, 1, 6, ENTER). The display will reßect your entries, but the value wonÕt actually change until you press ENTER. Before pressing ENTER, you can return to the original value by pressing CANCEL. Pressing CLEAR is the same as pressing 0 without pressing ENTER.

When entering names, youÕll use the left/right cursor buttons or the <<< / >>> soft buttons to move the cursor to the character you want to change. Use the labels under the alphanumeric buttons as a guide to character entry. Press the corresponding button one or more times to insert the desired character above the cursor. The CANCEL button is equivalent to the >>> soft button, and ENTER is the same as OK. The CLEAR button replaces the currently selected character with a space. The Ò+/-Ó button toggles between uppercase and lowercase letters.

User Interface Basics

Data Entry

Double Button Presses

Pressing two or more related buttons simultaneously executes a number of special functions depending on the currently selected mode. Make sure to press them at exactly the same time.

IN THIS MODE: THESE BUTTONS: WILL DO THIS:

(Pressed simultaneously)

PROGRAM MODE Octav-, Octav+ Reset MIDI transposition to 0 semitones. Double-

press again to go to previous transposition.

Chan-, Chan+ Set current MIDI channel to 1.

Plus/Minus Step to Program 100, 200. etc.

MASTER MODE CHAN/BANK Enables Guitar/Wind Controller Mode.

SONG MODE left/right cursor buttons Toggle between Play and Stop.

up/down cursor buttons Toggle between Play and Pause.

Plus/Minus Select Quantize Grid values on MISC page and

Edit Song:TRACK Quantize page. Select duration for a step on Edit Song:STEP page. Increment GateTime by 20% intervals on Edit Song: STEP page.

CHAN/BANK Select all tracks on Edit Song:TRACK page.

DISK MODE 2 leftmost soft buttons Issue SCSI Eject command to currently selected

SCSI device.

CHAN/BANK Hard format SCSI device. List selected objects

when saving objects.

left/right cursor buttons Select all items in a list. Move cursor to end of

name in naming dialog.

up/down cursor buttons Clear all selections in a list. Move cursor to begin-

ning of name in naming dialog.

PROGRAM EDITOR CHAN/BANK Select Layer 1.

SAMPLE EDITOR 2 leftmost soft buttons Toggle between default zoom setting and current

zoom setting.

Plus/Minus Set the value of the currently selected parameter

at the next zero crossing.

ANY EDITOR Plus/Minus Scroll through the currently selected parameterÕs

list of values in regular or logical increments (varies with each parameter).

2 leftmost soft buttons Reset MIDI transposition to 0 semitones. Double-

press again to go to previous transposition.

Center soft buttons Select Utilities menu.

2 rightmost soft buttons Sends all notes/controllers off message on all 16

channels (same as Panic soft button).

SAVE DIALOG Plus/Minus Toggle between next free ID and original ID.

3-5

User Interface Basics

Intuitive Data Entry

Many parameters have values that correspond to the standard physical controls present on most MIDI controllers (primarily keyboards). In many cases, you can select these values Òintuitively,Ó rather than having to scroll through the Control Source list. This is done by selecting the desired parameter, then holding the ENTER button while moving the desired physical control.

For example, on the LAYER page in the Program Editor, you can set the range of the currently selected layer as follows: use the cursor buttons to move the cursor to the value for the ÒLoKeyÓ parameter, press (and hold) the ENTER button, then use your MIDI controller to trigger the note you wish to be the lowest note for the currently displayed layer. The note you triggered (it has to be between C 0ÑC 8) will appear as the value for the LoKey parameter. Repeat the process for the HiKey parameter.

Another example: select Program 199 while in Program mode. Press EDIT to enter the Program Editor. Press the PITCH soft button to select the PITCH page. Move the cursor to the Src1 parameter. Hold the ENTER button, and move your controllerÕs Pitch Wheel. PWheel will be selected as the value for Src1.

You can also use the keyboard of your MIDI controller to choose control sources, since each key number corresponds to a value on the control source list. If you have a certain control source that you use over and over (for example, LFO1), this can be the quickest way to enter its value. To do this: highlight a parameter which uses a value from the control source list, hold down ENTER, then strike the key corresponding to the control source you want to choose. LFO1, for example, is assigned to B5.

Also, for almost every parameter, holding the ENTER button links the K2vx to your MIDI controllerÕs Data slider, if it has one. Moving the Data Slider will run through the range of values for the currently selected parameter. This is not as precise as the Alpha Wheel, but much faster.

Changing the Current Layer in Multi-Layer Programs

When editing a multi-layer program (including drum programs), you can quickly switch between layers by holding the ENTER button, then striking a key. The K2vx will change the current layer to that keyÕs layer. If the key is part of more than one layer, subsequent key strikes will cycle through each layer that has that key in its range.

Search Function

ThereÕs a convenient way to Þnd any alphabetic or numeric string of characters within the currently selected list, or range of values. Hold the ENTER button and press any of the numeric keys. A dialog like the Name Dialog will appear. Type in the string of characters you want to Þnd. For example, if youÕre looking at the Program list and you want to Þnd all programs containing the word ÒHorn,Ó you would type h-o-r-n. This function is not case sensitive; it will Þnd upper and lower case characters regardless of what you type.

When youÕve typed the string of characters you want to Þnd, press ENTER. The K2vx searches through the current list of values and Þnds all values that match the string of characters you typed. Hold ENTER and press one of the Plus/Minus buttons to search for the next higher- or lower-numbered object that contains the string of characters.

3-6

The string you select will remain in memory. You can store and select a string of characters with each of the numeric buttons. Hold ENTER and press one of the numeric buttons at any time to select that string for a search. When the string appears, you can change it, or just press ENTER to Þnd that string.

+ 500 hidden pages

Kurzweil Music Systems K2000 User's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual