M-audio AXIOM user guide
Axiom User Guide
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This guide is copyrighted ©2010 by Avid Technology, Inc., with all rights
reserved. Under copyright laws, this guide may not be duplicated in whole or in
part without the written consent of Avid Technology, Inc.
Avid, M-Audio and Axiom are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Avid
Technology, Inc. All other trademarks contained herein are the property of their
respective owners.
Product features, specifications, system requirements, and availability are
subject to change without notice.
Guide Part Number 9329-65008-00 REV A 2/10
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Contents
Chapter 1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Minimum System Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Chapter 2. Driver Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Windows Installation Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Mac OS X Installation Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Configuring Music Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Chapter 3. Controls and Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Top Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Rear Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Chapter 4. Advanced Keyboard Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Chapter 5. Advanced Programming Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Chapter 6. Keyboard Zones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Chapter 7. MIDI Messages Defined . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Program and Bank Changes Messages Explained . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
RPN/NRPNs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
SysEx . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Appendix A. Standard MIDI Control Numbers (MIDI CC’s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Appendix B. Assignable MIDI CC’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Appendix C. Useful MIDI Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Appendix D. DirectLink Transport Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Appendix E. Hexadecimal Conversion Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Appendix F. Roland GS & Yamaha XG NRPN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Contentsiii
Chapter 1: Introduction
Con gratu l ations on you r purc hase of an M-A u dio Ax iom Ser ies MID I Contr oller. Design ed for b oth st udio an d
stage, Axiom offers 25, 49, or 61 semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch, and DirectLink. Once
installed and configured, DirectLink automatically maps Axiom faders, buttons, knobs, and Transport Controls to numerous functions in qualified versions of Pro Tools and other Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs).
Axiom faders, knobs buttons, and trigger pads can be mapped to various parameters in your DAW or virtual
instrument, by using its MIDI Learn function (if available), or by manual assignment as described in
Chapter 5, “Advanced Programming Functions.”
Refer to the documentation provided with your software for further information about its MIDI Learn capabilities and functions.
For a current list of qualified recording applications, the most recent Windows drivers, and DirectLink
installers and User Guides, visit www.avid.com.
A single USB connection not only sends MIDI data to the computer, but also provides power to the device. Axiom functions as a class-compliant device, and will be recognized by a host computer without the need for additional drivers. However, downloading and installing the latest Axiom drivers (from www.avid.com) is
strongly recommended before installing DirectLink, or controlling more than one application at the same
time, or simultaneously using other class-compliant USB audio devices. Otherwise, connect Axiom to an
available USB port on a computer using the included USB cable, and set the power switch to the On position.
The 5-pin MIDI connectors transmits MIDI data to and from Axiom when controlling external hardware synthesizers or sound modules. Axiom will also function as a USB MIDI interface between a host computer and
external MIDI hardware while connected via USB.
For more information about installing drivers on Windows systems, as well as Axiom setup and DAW
configuration for Windows and Mac OS X, see Chapter 2, “Driver Installation.” Further information on
installing and configuring DirectLink can be found in the appropriate DirectLink User Guide.
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Chapter 1: Introduction
Features
• 25, 49, or 61 velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
• 4 programmable Keyboard Zones
• Octave/Transpose buttons
• DirectLink - Automatic mapping of top panel controls to qualified DAWs
• 2 Dedicated Patch Select buttons
• 8 Trigger Pads; MIDI re-assignable
• 9 Faders (1 on Axiom 25); MIDI re-assignable
• 9 Fader buttons (Axiom 49/61 only); MIDI re-assignable
• 8 “Endless” Encoder Knobs; MIDI re-assignable
• 6 Transport buttons; MIDI re-assignable
• Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels; MIDI re-assignable
• Sustain and Expression Pedal inputs; MIDI re-assignable
• 20 user editable memory locations
•LCD Screen
• 5-pin MIDI In and MIDI Out connectors
• USB 2.0 port (backward compatible with USB 1.1)
Minimum System Requirements
Minimum System Requirements can be found at www.avid.com.
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Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Driver Installation
Windows Installation Instructions
Axiom functions as a class-compliant device and will be recognized by a computer without additional drivers
on Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7. Simply connect the device to a computer using the supplied
USB cable, configure your recording software and start making music.
However, we recommend that Windows users download and install the latest Axiom Series drivers found on
the M-Audio website to do any of the following:
• Control more than one application at the same time.
• Simultaneously use other class-compliant USB audio devices.
• Use long System Exclusive (SysEx) commands.
Installation Steps
Make sure Axiom is not connected to the computer before beginning the installation. The installer will
prompt you to connect Axiom during the installation procedure.
To install the Windows drivers from a download:
Double-click the installer to begin the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete
the installation.
To install the Windows drivers from the Installer disk:
1 Insert the disk in your computer CD or DVD drive. The driver installer launches when the Installation disk
is inserted.
If your computer fails to launch this application automatically, you can manually start it by going to the
Start menu, opening My Computer (or Computer in Windows Vista and Windows 7), and opening the
disk that appears in your computer’s CD or DVD drive.
2 Select Axiom from the Product pop-up menu and click Install.
3 Follow the on-screen instructions. At various points in the process, you may be notified that the driver being
installed has not passed Windows Logo Testing, or asked whether the program you wish to run is a trusted application. Click Continue Anyway (Windows XP) or Install (Windows Vista or Windows 7) to proceed with the
installation.
4 Once the installer has completed, click Finish.
5 Connect Axiom to an available USB port on your computer. If you are using Windows Vista or Windows 7,
your Axiom is now ready to use. If you are using Windows XP, proceed to the next step.
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Chapter 2: Driver Installation
6 For Windows XP only, do the following:
• After Windows XP identifies the keyboard and asks if you want to search the Internet for a driver, select
No, not this time and click Next.
• When the Found New Hardware Wizard appears, select Install the software automatically and click Next.
•Once the Wizard has completed, click Finish. If you are presented with another Found New Hardware
Wizard dialog, repeat step 6.
7 When the installation is complete, you will see a message stating “Your new hardware is installed and ready
to use.”
8 Proceed to “Configuring Music Software” on page 4.
If you plan to use DirectLink so that Axiom controllers are automatically mapped to functions in your DAW,
the DirectLink software must be installed separately. Refer to the separate DirectLink documentation applicable to your DAW for complete installation and configuration instructions.
Mac OS X Installation Instructions
The class-compliant drivers built into Mac OS X provide support for Axiom, therefore no additional drivers are
necessary (or available) when using the device with Mac OS X. Simply connect it to the computer using the
supplied USB cable, configure your recording software, and start making music.
If you plan to use DirectLink so that Axiom controls are automatically mapped to functions in your DAW, the
DirectLink software must be installed separately. Refer to the separate DirectLink documentation applicable to
your DAW for complete installation and configuration instructions.
Configuring Music Software
When using Axiom with your computer, you may need to configure your music software to receive MIDI data.
This process varies from one application to another, but is usually done through a “Preferences,” “Setup,” or
“Options” menu. Refer to the documentation included with your DAW software for further information.
Because Axiom does not contain built-in sounds, pressing a key will only send MIDI data to the computer, giving instructions on when and how a note should play. A virtual instrument loaded onto a track of your DAW
software then creates the sound based on the instructions received from Axiom. For more details on using virtual instruments, refer to the documentation for your DAW software.
Axiom User Guide
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Chapter 2: Driver Installation
Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
Snap
Shot
Vel Lock
Vel Lo ck
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4 5 6 7 8
13
10
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192018 17 16 15 14
Top Panel
Using DirectLink
Once installed and configured, DirectLink is activated by launching a qualified DAW application on the host
computer. This automatically maps Axiom controls to functions in your recording software and offers the following modes of operation:
Mixer Mode This is the default mode which maps Axiom Faders, Encoder knobs, and Fader buttons to their cor-
responding DAW mixer functions.
Instrument Mode Pressing the Instrument Mode button (See “Function Buttons” on page 11) switches Di-
rectLink to Instrument Mode, and assigns Axiom controls to virtual instrument parameters within a selected
DAW track.
Because DirectLink configuration and operation varies slightly in different DAW applications, please refer to
the DirectLink documentation for your qualified DAW for further details and installation instructions.
Where applicable, this section provides an overview of these controls using DirectLink, as well as their default
MIDI assignments.
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Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
1 Modulation Wheel
This wheel changes the intensity of certain effects during performance. By default, most synthesizers assign this wheel to control vibrato (change in intonation) or tremolo (change in volume). Rolling it upward
increases the modulation effect, while rolling downward reduces the effect.
When this control is moved the LCD screen will display the assigned MIDI CC number (“cc 1”), the active
keyboard Zone (for example “z1”), and the values sent. If the Control Mute function is active (See “Additional Functions” on page 12) the LCD will display the same information, with the addition of “MUTE.”
This signifies that MIDI data will not be transmitted.
The Modulation Wheel can be assigned to MIDI messages other than Modulation data (see Chapter 5,
“Advanced Programming Functions”), and different assignments can be made for each of the 4 keyboard
Zones. This means the type of messages sent is determined by the active Zones. See Chapter 6, “Keyboard
Zones”for further details. For a list of supported assignments, see Appendix A, “Standard MIDI Control
Numbers (MIDI CC’s)” and Appendix B, “Assignable MIDI CC’s.”
2 Pitch Bend Wheel
This wheel raises and lowers pitch during performance. Rolling the Pitch Bend wheel upward raises the
pitch. Rolling it downward lowers the pitch. The upper and lower pitch bend limit is determined by settings on your hardware or software synthesizer, not by the Pitch Bend wheel on Axiom. This wheel is
spring-mounted and returns to the center position when released.
When this control is moved the LCD screen will display the assigned message type (such as “P.bENd”), the
active keyboard Zone (for example “z1”), and values sent. If the Control Mute function is active (See “Additional Functions” on page 12) the LCD will display the same information, with the addition of “MUTE.”
This signifies that MIDI data will not be transmitted.
This wheel can be assigned to MIDI messages other than Pitch Bend data, and different assignments can
be made for each of the 4 keyboard Zone. This means the type of messages sent is determined by the active
Zones. See Chapter 6, “Keyboard Zones”for further details. For a list of supported assignments, see
Appendix A, “Standard MIDI Control Numbers (MIDI CC’s)” and Appendix B, “Assignable MIDI CC’s.”
3 Octave/Transpose Buttons
These buttons shift the keyboard up or down in one octave increments to extend the range of playable
notes. The Right button (+) shifts upward (for example, note F3 becomes F4), while the Left button (–)
shifts downward (for example, note F3 becomes F2).
The Transpose function is activated by pressing the Left (–)and Right (+) buttons simultaneously. In this
mode, pressing the Right button shifts the keyboard upward by one half-step (semi-tone). For example,
note F 3 becomes F # 3. Pressi n g the Left b u tton shif ts the k e y board dow n ward by one h alf-step (F3 bec o m es
E3).
Global and Zone Shift Functions
As described in Chapter 6, “Keyboard Zones,” keyboard Zones can have individual Octave and/or Transpose settings. The Global and Zone Octave/Transpose settings work in combination to shift the pitch of
the entire keyboard while preserving relative pitch offsets between Zones. The Zone Octave and Transpose
functions are useful when different Octave or Transpose shift settings are needed across multiple Zones.
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Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
4 Group F Button (Axiom 49 & 61 0nly)
DirectLink Operation
When this button is pressed, all nine Axiom Faders, and Fader buttons (F1–18) are released from their DirectLink assignments, and mapped according to the active Patch. A new Axiom Patch can be selected at
any time by using the “Recall” function. See “Additional Functions” on page 12
Pressing the Group F button again, returns all controls to their DirectLink assignments. The button also
illuminates confirming the group is in DirectLink mode.
Default Operation
The Group F button is used to enable or disable the control group when a Patch is stored or recalled. When
the button is illuminated the group is enabled for the operation.
For example, when storing a Patch, the group is enabled by default. Pressing the button disables and excludes the controls from the newly stored patch. When the patch is recalled, the state of the group is remembered as being disabled, and the Group F button will not illuminate.
5Faders
There are nine Faders (F1–F9) on Axiom 49 and 61, and one Fader (F1) on Axiom 25. These faders function
based on the type of operation, as follows:
DirectLink Operation
In Mixer Mode (default), the first eight Faders (F1–F8) automatically map to control the track volume for
the currently selected bank of eight tracks in a qualified DAW application. The right-most Fader (F9) and
the single Fader on Axiom 25 will map to the Master Volume in the application.
When Instrument Mode is active, these faders generally map to parameters on the virtual instrument
within the targeted DAW track.
The operation of these Faders may vary slightly in different DAW applications. For more information
about Instrument and Mixer modes, refer to the DirectLink User Guide for your qualified DAW.
Default Operation
All nine Faders (Axiom 49 & 61) send different types of standard MIDI CC messages, or advanced MIDI
messages based on the parameter they are assigned to. See Appendix A, “Standard MIDI Control Numbers
(MIDI CC’s)” and Appendix B, “Assignable MIDI CC’s.” When a fader is moved the LCD screen will display the assigned MIDI message (for example “cc 74”), its name (for example “F1”), and the values sent.
If the Control Mute function (See “Additional Functions” on page 12) is active the LCD will display the
same information, with the addition of “MUTE.” This signifies that MIDI data will not be transmitted, and
the fader can be moved with affecting external software devices. All faders are fully assignable as described
in Chapter 5, “Advanced Programming Functions.”
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Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
6 Fader Buttons
Axiom 49 and 61 feature nine Fader buttons. These buttons function based on the type of operation, as
follows:
DirectLink Operation
In Mixer Mode (default), the first eight buttons (F10–F17) are used for selecting a track within and active
bank of eight tracks in qualified DAW applications. By default, pressing any of them will select the corresponding DAW track. Pressing the right-most Fader button (F18) places buttons F10 to F17 in Mute mode.
This will mute the corresponding DAW track. Pressing button F18 again will place them in Solo mode.
Pressing any of the first 8 buttons will solo its corresponding track, while muting all others. When button
F18 is pressed another time buttons F10 to F17 will b e in Record Arm mode. Pressing each button will arm
its corresponding DAW track for recording.
The LCD screen will display the current mode of operation each time button F18 is pressed. For example,
“SEL,” “MUTE,” “SOLO,” or “REC.”
When Instrument Mode is active, these buttons generally map to parameters on the virtual instrument
within the targeted DAW track.
The operation of these buttons may vary slightly in different DAW applications. For more information
about Instrument and Mixer modes, refer to the DirectLink User Guide for your qualified DAW.
Default Operation
All nine bu ttons (Axiom 49 & 61) s end dif feren t types of stan dard MI DI CC, M IDI not e, or ot her adv anced
MIDI messages based on the parameter they are assigned to as described in Chapter 5, “Advanced Programming Functions.” See Appendix A, “Standard MIDI Control Numbers (MIDI CC’s)” and Appendix B,
“Assignable MIDI CC’s.”
Complete lists of available MIDI CC’s can be found in See Appendix A, “Standard MIDI Control Numbers
(MIDI CC’s),” and Appendix B, “Assignable MIDI CC’s.”
Pressing a Fader button causes the LCD screen to display the assigned MIDI message (for example “cc 74”),
its name (for example “F10”), and the value sent. This will also be the case when the button is released. If
the Control Mute function is active pressing one of these buttons with deactivate it.
7 LCD Screen
The LCD screen displays operational, programming, and status information. In DirectLink mode the data
seen on the LCD screen is entirely dictated by the DAW.
8 Group E Button
DirectLink Operation
When this button is pressed, all eight Axiom Encoder knobs (E1–E8) are released from their DirectLink assignments, and mapped according to the current active preset Patch. A new Axiom Patch can be selected
at any time by using the “Recall” function. See “Additional Functions” on page 12
Pressing the Group E button again, returns all controls to their DirectLink assignments. The button also
illuminates confirming the group is in DirectLink mode.
The Axiom Transport buttons are not affected by the Group E button, and they will always retain their
default DirectLink assignments.
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Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
Default Operation
The Group E button is used to enable or disable the control group when a Patch is stored or recalled. When
the button is illuminated the group is enabled for the operation.
For example, when storing a Patch, the group is enabled by default. Pressing the button disables and excludes the controls from the newly stored patch. When the patch is recalled, the state of the group is remembered as being disabled, and the Group E button will not illuminate.
9 Encoder Knobs
There are eight Encoder Knobs (E1–E8) with functions based on the type of operation, as follows:
DirectLink Operation
In Mixer Mode (default), these knobs map to the Pan function within qualified DAWs by default.
When Instrument Mode is active, these Encoder knobs generally map to parameters on the virtual instrument within the targeted DAW track.
The operation of these knobs may vary slightly in different DAW applications. For more information
about Instrument and Mixer modes, refer to the DirectLink User Guide for your qualified DAW.
Default Operation
These knobs send different types of standard MIDI CC messages or advanced MIDI messages based on the
parameter they are assigned to, or the active preset. See Appendix A, “Standard MIDI Control Numbers
(MIDI CC’s)” and Appendix B, “Assignable MIDI CC’s.” When a knob is moved the LCD screen will display the assigned MIDI message (for example “cc 74”), its name (for example “E1”), and the value sent. If
the Control Mute function (See “Additional Functions” on page 12) is active the LCD will display the
same information, with the addition of “MUTE.” This signifies that MIDI data will not be transmitted. All
Encoder knobs are fully assignable as described in Chapter 5, “Advanced Programming Functions.”
10 Transport Buttons
These buttons (E9
DirectLink Operation
–E14) function based on the type of operation, as follows:
In both Mixer and Instrument Modes, these buttons map to the Transport buttons in qualified DAW applications to control playback, record, start/stop, fast forward and rewind, as well as enabling (or disabling) the loop function.
Within in qualified versions of Pro Tools, holding the Loop button while pressing one of the other Transport Control buttons gives access to additional functions. Further information on how to access these
functions can be found in the DirectLink User Guide for Pro Tools.
Default Operation
These buttons send standard MIDI CC, MIDI note, MMC (MIDI Machine Control), or other advanced
MIDI messages based on the parameter they are assigned to. See Appendix A, “Standard MIDI Control
Numbers (MIDI CC’s)” and Appendix B, “Assignable MIDI CC’s.” When a button is pressed, the LCD
screen will display the assigned MIDI message (for example “cc 74”), its name (for example “E9”), and the
value sent. This will also be the case when it is released. If the Control Mute function (See “Additional
Functions” on page 12) is active it is deactivated when on of these buttons is pressed.
All Axiom Transport buttons are fully assignable as described in Chapter 5, “Advanced Programming
Functions.”
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Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
11 Group P Button
DirectLink Operation
When this button is pressed, all eight Trigger pads (P1–P8) are released from their DirectLink assignments,
and mapped according to the current preset Patch. A new Axiom Patch can be selected at any time by using the “Recall” function. See “Additional Functions” on page 12
Pressing the Group P button again, returns all pads to their DirectLink assignments. The button also illuminates confirming the group is in DirectLink mode.
Default Operation
The Group P button is used to enable or disable the control group when a Patch is stored or recalled. When
the button is illuminated the pad is enabled for the operation.
For example, when storing a Patch, the group is enabled by default. Pressing the button disables and excludes the pads from the newly stored patch. When the patch is recalled, the state of the group is remembered as being disabled, and the Group P button will not illuminate.
12 Trigger Pads
There are eight Trigger Pads (P1–P8) that send different types of standard MIDI CC, MIDI note, or other advanced MIDI messages based on the parameter they are assigned to.
Complete lists of available MIDI CC’s can be found in See Appendix A, “Standard MIDI Control Numbers
(MIDI CC’s),” and Appendix B, “Assignable MIDI CC’s.”
Generally these pads transmit MIDI notes using MIDI Message “147.” Please see Chapter 5, “Advanced
Programming Functions” for more information.
When assigned to a standard MIDI CC number, the pad is pressure sensitive. In this instance, the value
sent is determined by the amount of pressure applied while it is held down. The greater the pressure, the
higher the value and vice versa.
Pads assigned to advanced MIDI messages operate in the same way as the Fader buttons or transport controls.
When a pad is struck, or when pressure is applied to it, the LCD screen will display the assigned MIDI message (for example “cc 74”), its name (for example “P1”), and the value sent. This will also be the case when
pressure has been removed.
The Trigger Pads are generally not affected by DirectLink in either Mixer or Instrument Mode. For further
information about these Pads and DirectLink, refer to the DirectLink Guide for your DAW.
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Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
13 Function Buttons
These buttons access the following features:
• Instrument Mode Button (Inst) This button switches DirectLink between Mixer (default) and Instrument modes while Axiom is controlling a qualified DAW. When used to activate Instrument Mode, the
button will illuminate when pressed, and the LCD screen will momentarily display the instrument
name.
Holding down the Instrument Mode button will open and close the window for the instrument being
controlled. Momentarily pressing the Instrument Mode button returns DirectLink to Mixer Mode.
For DirectLink installation instructions, please refer to the appropriate DirectLink guide for your qualified
DAW.
• Null This button activates and de-activates Null Mode. By default, Null mode is always active and the
Null button will illuminate when this is the case. In Null Mode, the position of Axiom Faders is stored
as part of a user Patch. This is known as their Null value. If a fader is at a different position or value when
the patch is recalled the LCD will display “MUTE” and a value representing how far off they are from the
Null value. The fader will not transmit MIDI data until the Null Value has been reached. This prevents
corresponding parameters in the software from jumping to a different value as the Axiom control is adjusted. The Axiom Fader will be “un-muted” as soon as the position matches the value stored in the user
patch.
For example, in qualified versions of Pro Tools, Axiom Preset 9 can be used to control the virtual instrument called Velvet. When an instrument parameter is edited using an Axiom Fader, its new position is
retained as the Null value when a new preset is selected. If the same fader is used to edit the new preset,
it is likely to be in a different position when Preset 9 is recalled. Because Null Mode is active by default,
the fader will not transmit MIDI data to Velvet until it has been adjusted to its Null Value. This prevents
it from transmitting a MIDI CC value that will cause an unwanted parameter change in Velvet.
• Program (Prog) When this button is pressed it will illuminate and the LCD screen will show the current
Program Change number (for example, “PRG 0”) and the active keyboard Zone (for example, “z 1”).
Pressing either of the Patch buttons (“Up” arrow or “Down” arrow) will increase or decrease this number, and the resulting program change message is sent on the active Zone channel. After 1 second, the
display returns to normal and the patch buttons return to their default functionality.
Program Change massages for all active keyboard Zones are included whenever a patch is stored. For
more information on Zones, please refer to Chapter 6, “Keyboard Zones.”
When the Program button is held down for at least one second Axiom enters Edit Mode, which overrides both Performance and DirectLink Modes. The Program and Edit buttons will illuminate, and the
LCD screen will show the current Program change and active Zone number. A direct Program change
can then be sent by entering the desired program number using the numerical keys and pressing the enter key to confirm.
For more information about these parameters, see Chapter 4, “Advanced Keyboard Functions,”
Chapter 5, “Advanced Programming Functions,” and Chapter 6, “Keyboard Zones.”
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Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
• Channel (Chan) When this button is pressed it illuminates and the LCD screen shows the current Global
MIDI Channel number (for example, “G.CHAN 1.” Pressing either of the Patch buttons (“Up” arrow or
“Down” arrow) will change the Channel number.
Holding the Channel button for at least one second takes Axiom into Edit Mode which overrides both
Performance and DirectLink Modes. The Channel and Edit buttons will illuminate, and the LCD screen
will show the current Global Channel number. This value can be changed by entering the new Channel
number using the numbered keys and Enter key on the keyboard.
• Edit When this button is pressed it illuminates and activates Edit Mode. The LCD screen will read “Edit,”
and display the current Control Number (for example “E 1” - the first Encoder Knob). This function lets
you access the extended parameters listed along the top edge of the keyed. Moving the currently selected Control changes the value.
In Edit Mode, the Patch buttons increment and decrement the selected parameter value at any time.
For more information on Edit Mode, refer to Chapter 4, “Advanced Keyboard Functions,” Chapter 5,
“Advanced Programming Functions,” and Chapter 6, “Keyboard Zones.”
Additional Functions
The Function buttons allow access to four additional Functions as follows:
• Recall In both Performance and DirectLink Mode, simultaneously pressing the Instrument Mode and
Null buttons activates Edit Mode. The Edit button illuminates and the LCD screen will show the current
Patch selection (for example “PATCH 01”). This value can be changed by entering the new Patch number using the numbered keys on the keyboard, or the Patch buttons. Pressing the Enter key or Edit button will confirm the new patch number and edit mode is disabled.
• Control Mute (Ctrl Mute) Simultaneously pressing the Null and Program (Prog) buttons will activate
and deactivate Control Mute (Ctrl Mute mode). When this function is active, the LCD screen will read
“MUTE ON.” In Ctrl Mute mode, Axiom controls can be moved without transmitting MIDI Data. This
function will be automatically turned off as soon as a key or butto n is pressed, or as soon as the N ull and
Program buttons are simultaneously pressed again.
• Panic Simultaneously pressing the Program (Prog) and Channel (Chan) buttons will send “All Notes
Off” and “Reset All Controllers” messages on all MIDI Channels. The LCD screen will read “Panic” during this operation. This stops stuck notes that continue to play even after their keys have been released.
• Velocity Lock (Vel Lock) Simultaneously pressing the Channel (Chan) and Edit buttons will activate Ve-
locity Lock. The LCD screen will read “VLock ON.” The note velocity sent by the Trigger Pads is restricted to the range of values specified by the Data 2 and Data 3 parameters.
For more information on how to edit the Data 2 and Data 3 parameters, please refer to Chapter 4, “Advanced Keyboard Functions.”
Pressing the buttons again will de-activate this function, returning it to the default setting. The LCD
screen will read “VLock OFF,” and the note velocity is determined by how hard the Pads are struck. By
default, Velocity Lock is set to off.
The VLock setting can be stored as part of a Patch using the Store function described in Chapter 4, “Advanced Keyboard Functions.”
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Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
14 Mute Button
In DirectLink mode, this button will mute and “un-mute” the targeted track in a qualified DAW. Pressing
this button while holding down the Shift button will solo the keyboard's target track.
If the Zone button is active, the Mute button activates and deactivates Zone 4. For more information, see
section 17 “Zone Buttons (1,2,3, & 4)” in this chapter.
15 Track Buttons
These buttons function based on the type of operation, as follows:
DirectLink Operation
These buttons are used for selecting the target track or banks of 8 Tracks within qualified DAW applications.
• Track Selection The left Track button (<) targets the previous DAW Track. For example, if Track 2 is cur-
rently targeted, pressing this button will target Track 1. The right Track button (>) target the next Track.
For example, if Track 2 is currently targeted, pressing this button will target Track 3. These buttons can
also be used to target tracks outside the currently active bank of 8 tracks. For example, if track 8 is currently targeted and the > Track button is pressed, Track 9 will be targeted and Axiom will automatically
bank to the next group of 8 tracks. Axiom Faders and their corresponding buttons will now control
Tracks 9–16.
If the target is an instrument track, it is automatically armed for recording, and Axiom will immediately
play notes on the virtual instrument that is loaded. If Instrument Mode is active the controls will automatically map to the instrument within the target track.
• Bank Selection When the Shift button is held down the left Track button (<) selects the previous bank
of 8 DAW Trac ks. For exampl e, if t he bank of Track s 9–16 i s currently s electe d, pres sing t his but ton whe n
Shift is held down will select the bank of Tracks 1–8. The right Track button (>) selects the next bank of
8 Tracks. For example, if the bank of Tracks 9–16 is currently selected, pressing this button when Shift
is held down will select the bank of Tracks 17–24.
Default Operation
The Track buttons (< and >) are used for activating and deactivating Zones 2 (<) and 3 (>) as described below in section 17 “Zone Buttons (1,2,3, & 4)” of this chapter.
16 Shift Button
This button functions based on the type of operation, as follows:
DirectLink (Default) Operation
Holding down the Shift button allows you to access additional functions and mapping options performed
by the Encoder knobs, Fader buttons, Track buttons, and Mute buttons, in qualified DAW applications.
17 Zone Buttons (1,2,3, & 4)
These buttons activate and de-activate keyboard Zones 1 though 4 respectively. Zone 1 is the default Zone.
Activating a Zone will cause its corresponding button to illuminate, and all other Zones will be deactivated. Multiple Zones can be activated by simultaneously pressing any combination of these buttons.
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Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
18 Zone Button
Expr
Sustain MIDI Out MIDI In
USB
9V DC Power
On / Off
222123 26 27 2824 25
This button is used for accessing the individual Zone buttons described above.
Holding down the this button for at least one second, in both Performance and DirectLink Modes, will put
Axiom into Zone Edit Mode. For more information, see Chapter 6, “Keyboard Zones.”
19 Patch Buttons
These buttons function based on the type of operation, as follows:
DirectLink Operation
While Axiom is in Instrument Mode, the Patch buttons scroll up or down through virtual instrument
Patches on the currently selected Track within a qualified DAW. In certain applications these buttons also
allow you to scroll the various devices or plug-ins inserted in the currently selected DAW channel strip.
Refer to the appropriate DirectLink guide for further information.
Default Operation
These buttons allow you to scroll the 20 Axiom Patch presets.
In Edit Mode, the Patch buttons are used to increment/decrement the selected parameter value.
20 Keyboard
The velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted keyboard is not only the primary method of sending Note On/ Off
and Velocity data when performing, it is also used to access extended programing functions listed along
its upper edge. For more information on the extended programming functions, refer to Chapter 4, “Advanced Keyboard Functions.”
• Aftertouch Axiom features a fully assignable Aftertouch Strip. When additional pressure is applied to a
key that has been pressed the Aftertouch Strip will transmit MIDI data based on the assigned MIDI CC.
When pressure is applied to the Strip the LCD screen will display the assigned message type (“CH AT”),
the active keyboard Zone (for example “z1”), and the value sent (for example “0”).
A unique MIDI CC can be assigned to the Aftertouch Strip for each active keyboard Zone, so that the
messages sent are defined by the active Zones.
For more information on reassigning the Strip see Chapter 5, “Advanced Programming Functions.”
Rear Panel
21 Kensington® Lock Connector
This connector is compatible with standard laptop-style Kensington® security cables for theft protection.
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Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
22 Expression Pedal Input
This socket accepts both “switch type” and standard expression Pedals such as M-Audio EX-P for adding
expressive changes during performances. The Expression Pedal input is fully MIDI-assignable, and a
unique MIDI CC can be assigned for each keyboard Zone, so that the message(s) sent are defined by the
active Zone(s).
For a list of supported assignments, see Appendix A, “Standard MIDI Control Numbers (MIDI CC’s)” and
Appendix B, “Assignable MIDI CC’s”
23 Sustain Pedal Input
This socket accepts momentary-contact foot Pedals (not included). When pressed, this Pedal will sustain
the notes you are playing, without having to keep your fingers pressing down the keys. The Sustain Pedal
input is fully MIDI-assignable, and a unique MIDI CC can be assigned for each keyboard Zone, so that the
message(s) sent are defined by the active Zone(s).
For a list of supported assignments, see Appendix A, “Standard MIDI Control Numbers (MIDI CC’s)” and
Appendix B, “Assignable MIDI CC’s”
The polarity of the Sustain Pedal is determined by Axiom upon startup. When powering up, it assumes the
Pedal is in the “up” (off) position. It is important that the Sustain Pedal is not pressed down during
startup, otherwise its operation will be reversed.
24 MIDI In Port
This standard 5-pin MIDI connector receives data from any MIDI compatible device such as a synthesizer
or drum machine.
This port also allows you to use Axiom as a MIDI interface to send MIDI data from external hardware to
your DAW. In this instance, the 3rd USB MIDI input should be selected from those available in the DAW
preferences. Please refer to the documentation provided with your DAW for further information on MIDI
configuration.
25 MIDI Out Port
This standard 5-pin MIDI connector transmits data to any MIDI compatible device such as a synthesizer,
sound module, or drum machine.
In MIDI Out “From USB” Mode, data sent to the Axiom USB MIDI Output port (not the DirectLink port)
will be streamed to the external MIDI Out port. Please refer to Chapter 4, “Advanced Keyboard Functions”
for further information on MIDI Out from USB.
26 USB Port
The USB 2.0 port (backward compatible with USB 1.1) delivers power to Axiom and transmits MIDI data
to and from the host computer.
27 Power Supply Jack
Connect an optional 9VDC power supply here when controlling external MIDI hardware in a live situation. This connection is not to be used while Axiom is connected to a host computer using the USB Port.
28 On/Off Switch
Use this switch to power the device on or off whether Axiom is connected via USB or controlling external
hardware.
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Chapter 3: Controls and Connectors
Chapter 4: Advanced Keyboard Functions
Ctrl Asgn
Zone Chan
Cntrl Select
Data 1
Data 2
Data 3
Curve
Chan Asgn
Snapshot
Bank LSB
Bank MSB
Mem. Dump
MIDI Out
Store
Drawbar
0
2
3
5
7
9
8
6
4
1
Enter
Axiom includes extended programming capabilities through secondary functions of the keys. The available
parameters are listed along the top edge of the keyboard, and accessed by pressing the Edit button. The LCD
screen shows the numerical value of the parameter being edited.
Control Assign (Ctrl Assign), Data 1, Data 2, Data 3
The Control Assign function (Ctrl Assign) assigns a MIDI continuous control number (MIDI CC), or other
MIDI parameter to any assignable Axiom control. The Data 1, Data 2, and Data 3 keys define various related
aspects of the parameter or function assigned to a control. For lists of available MIDI continuous control numbers, see Appendix A, “Standard MIDI Control Numbers (MIDI CC’s)” and Appendix B, “Assignable MIDI
CC’s.”
For example, it is possible to configure a button to send MIDI note On/Off Data by assigning it to controller
number 147. The Data 1 key is used to specify the pitch (note number) of the note played by the button (see
Appendix C, “Useful MIDI Data”). The Data 2 key is used to set the Note Off velocity (Velocity Off). The Data
3 key is used to set the Note On velocity (Velocity On), determining how loud the note will sound.
For more details and step-by-step control assignment examples, refer to Chapter 5, “Advanced Programming
Functions.”
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Chapter 4: Advanced Keyboard Functions
Zone Channel (Zone Chan)
The Zone Channel (ZONE CHAN) function specifies which MIDI Channel a Zone will use when transmitting
MIDI data. Assigning each Zone to its own channel will allow you to play up to 4 different sound patches on
a connected synthesizer or virtual instrument. This setting is saved as part of a user patch when stored to a
Memory Location. For instructions on how to save a user patch, see “Store” on page 22.
Assigning an Axiom control to a Zone MIDI Channel (z1– z4) as described in the following section (“Channel
Assign (Chan Assign)” on page 18), causes that control to transmit MIDI data on the same MIDI Channel as
the corresponding Zone.
For more information about Keyboard Zones and their related functions and parameters, see Chapter 6, “Keyboard Zones.”
To set the MIDI Channel for a Keyboard Zone:
1 Press the Zone button followed by one of the Zone selection buttons. See Chapter 6, “Keyboard Zones.”
2 Press the Edit button.
3 Press the Zone CHAN key. The LCD screen will display the current function (“CHAN”), the active Zone num-
ber (for example “z1”) and the current Zone Channel number.
4 Enter the new MIDI Channel number using the number keys or Patch buttons (+/–).
5 Press the Enter key.
6 Repeat steps 1 – 5 to assign set the MIDI channel for the remaining Zones.
After setting the Zone channel and exiting Edit mode, activate all desired Zones by simultaneously pressing
their respective Zone buttons.
Default Zone Channels
Zone MIDI Channel
1 0 (Global Channel)
22
33
44
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Chapter 4: Advanced Keyboard Functions
Channel Assign (Chan Assign)
The Channel Assign function (CHAN ASGN) assigns the active Axiom control to a specific MIDI channel.
To assign a knob, fader, button or pedal jack to a MIDI channel:
1 Select the active control as described in the next section, “Control Select (Ctrl Select)” on page 19.
2 Press the Edit button.
3 Press the Channel Assign key. The LCD screen will display the current parameter (“CHAN), the currently
selected control (for example “E1”), and the current MIDI channel (for example “1”).
4 Enter the new MIDI channel number using the number keys.
5 Press the Enter key.
When assigned to channel “0,” the control will transmit on the Global MIDI Channel. For more information,
refer to the next section, “Global Channel.”
When numbers 17 – 20 are entered the control will send MIDI data on one of the four Channels used by
keyboard Zones, z1 – z4, as shown in the following table. For further instructions on assigning a MIDI channel
to a Zone, see “Zone Channel (Zone Chan)” on page 17.
Keyboard Entry LCD Display Keyboard Zone
17 z1 Zone 1
18 z2 Zone 2
19 z3 Zone 3
20 z4 Zone 4
When a control is assigned to send SysEx messages, the displayed number represents the SysEx Device ID
instead of the MIDI transmit channel number. For more information about SysEx messages, refer to
Chapter 7, “MIDI Messages Defined.” A complete list of assignable SysEx messages can be found in
Appendix B, “Assignable MIDI CC’s.”
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Chapter 4: Advanced Keyboard Functions
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