M-Audio Axiom Line User Manual

Axiom

User Guide

English

English

Table of Contents

English . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

What’s in the Box? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Axiom Keyboard Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Section 1: Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

1.1 Axiom Keyboards Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

1.2 Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

1.3 Driver Installation Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

1.4 MIDI Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

1.5 Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Section 2: Basic MIDI Control From Your Axiom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2.1 The Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.2 MIDI Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

2.3 Program and Bank Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

2.4 MIDI Controller Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Section 3: Advanced Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

3.1 MIDI Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

3.2 Recollection and Storage of Your Control Setups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

3.3 How To Avoid Jumping Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

3.4 The Rotary Encoders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

3.5 Pressure Pads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

3.6 Controlling Several Devices at the Same Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

3.7 Group A Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

3.8 Example of Control Functionality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Section 4: Usage Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

4.1 MIDI Out from USB Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

4.2 Recording Your Performance On A Sequencer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

4.3 Controlling a Sound Module from the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Section 5: MIDI Messages Explained . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

5.1 Program & Bank Changes Explained . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

5.2 RPN/NRPNs Explained . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

5.3 SysEx Explained . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Section 6: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Section 7: Technical Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Section 8: Warranty Terms and Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Section 9: Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Appendix A - MIDI IMPLEMENTATION CHART . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Appendix B – Useful MIDI Data Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Appendix C - General MIDI Controller Numbers (MIDI CC's) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Appendix D – Assignable Controller Numbers to Linear Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Appendix E – Assignable Controller Numbers to Non-Linear Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Appendix F – Assignable Controller Numbers to Rotary Encoders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Appendix G – Assignable Controller Numbers to Pressure Pads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Appendix H - Hexadecimal Conversion Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Appendix I – Factory Presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

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Introduction

Congratulations on the purchase of your M-Audio Axiom MIDI controller keyboard. Please register your product today to ensure full
warranty coverage and receive free product updates. Register online at www.m-audio.com/register

Your new keyboard provides extensive control of virtual instruments, DAWs, hardware synthesizers, samplers and any other MIDI­compatible device.

The eight fully assignable pads give you the ability to trigger samples and loops separately from the keyboard in real-time. The eight
fully assignable endless rotary encoders allow for instant control of your software’s features and can pick up just where you left off.
The versatile and easy-to-use Axiom keyboard is a great controller in the studio and live on stage.

What’s in the Box?

If any of the following items are missing from your package, please contact your retailer.

< Axiom keyboard

< Quick Start Guide

< Keyboard Controller Series CD-ROM

< Software bundle CD-ROM

< USB cable

Axiom Keyboard Overview

Here is a rundown of some of the great features the Axiom keyboards have to offer:

< 25-, 49- or 61-note keyboard versions.

< Eight fully programmable endless rotary encoders.

< Eight fully programmable sample trigger pads.

< Nine fully assignable 40mm sliders (Axiom 49 and 61 only).

< USB 1.1 port to connect the Axiom to a computer. The keyboard can also be powered from the USB port, so no additional

power supply is required.

< MIDI IN and MIDI OUT ports for connecting external MIDI gear.

< Expression pedal socket (expression pedal not included).

< Sustain pedal socket (sustain pedal not included).

< Fully programmable monophonic aftertouch.

< Null mode – for full parameter recall with each preset.

< Controller Mute – reposition controllers without affecting your software.

< Easy to program controls can be assigned to a vast range of MIDI messages including MIDI controller messages, GM/GS/XG

SysEx messages, NRPN/RPN messages, channel aftertouch, program/bank changes, note messages and more.

< Rotary encoders can be programmed to use any of six popular increment/decrement methods for compatibility with virtually

all software with encoder support. The encoders can also function as standard MIDI controllers with a range of 0 to 127.

< A range of different acceleration curves for the encoders for realistic dial control.

< Trigger pads respond to velocity or pressure and can be programmed to either send MIDI note data or controller messages,

allowing for full control over all your software samplers, for triggering loops and much more.

About This Manual

There are five sections to this manual. Section 1 provides an overview of your new Axiom keyboard and gives you details how to set
up the keyboard with your computer. Section 2 explains some of your keyboard’s basic control features to get you started right away.
In section 3, we delve into more advanced functions and programming, and in section 4 we provide examples of your Axiom keyboard
in use. Finally, section 5 explains more about MIDI and some often misunderstood MIDI message types.

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Section 1: Getting Started

1.1 Axiom Keyboards Overview

1.1.1 Top Panel Overview

1.1.2 Back Panel Overview

1.1.3 Control Definitions

These controls are referred by name throughout this manual.

1: LCD display

2: Sliders (Axiom 49/61 only)

3: Encoders

4: Transport buttons

5: Assignable buttons (Axiom

49/61 only)

6: Trigger Pads

7: Function buttons

8: Numeric Keypad (Axiom

49/61 only)

9: Octave buttons

10: Pitch Bend wheel

11: Modulation wheel

12: Keyboard with Aftertouch

13: Expression pedal socket

14: Sustain Pedal socket

15: MIDI OUT port

16: MIDI IN port

17: USB 1.1 port

18: DC power socket

19: Power switch

20: Kensington Lock Hole

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1.2 Setup

If you intend to connect your Axiom keyboard to a computer, please read sections 1.2 and 1.3 first. If you only intend to use your
Axiom keyboard to control a sound module or synthesizer using the external MIDI OUT you should skip to section 1.4.

1.2.1 Minimum System Requirements

If you are using your Axiom with a computer, the following minimum system requirements apply:

Windows Mac OS

Pentium 3 800 MHz or higher Macintosh G3* 800/G4* 733 MHz or higher

(CPU requirement may be higher for laptops) (CPU requirement may be higher for laptops)

256 MB RAM OS X 10.3.9 with 256 MB RAM,

DirectX 9.0b or higher OS X 10.4.2 or greater with 512 MB RAM

Windows XP (SP2) or higher *G3/G4 accelerator cards are not supported.

(Windows 98, Me, NT or 2000 not supported)

M-Audio suggests you also check the minimum system requirements for your software, as they may be greater than the above.

USB hubs are not supported. M-Audio suggests that you connect directly to one of your computer’s built in USB ports.

1.3 Driver Installation Procedure

Important: Do not connect the USB cable to a computer until you have read and understood the instructions in the Quick Start
Guide. A printed copy of this is included in the box and you will also find this on the Keyboard Controller Series CD-ROM.

1.3.3 Using The Axiom with Your Software

When installed, the Axiom appears as a simple MIDI device with two input ports and one output port. You should select the first
listed Axiom input port as the MIDI input device in your software. Once this is set, your software should be able to receive notes
and controller data from the Axiom.

If you have connected external MIDI gear like a drum machine or another keyboard to your Axiom’s MIDI IN port, this gear can
be interfaced to the computer by selecting the second listed Axiom input port. This way, your Axiom is acting as a MIDI to USB
interface.

It is also possible to stream data from your computer to external MIDI gear connected to the MIDI OUT port of your Axiom—
effectively a USB to MIDI interface. To do this, you should select the Axiom output device in your software. Note that some other
steps are necessary to make this work that will be fully explained later in this manual.

The port names are defined in the table below. Note that the MIDI ports will appear with different names depending on whether
you are using Mac or PC, and whether you chose to install the Windows multi-client driver (more information on driver installation
and configuration can be found in the printed Quick Start Guide).

USB Input Port from Axiom Input port from external MIDI IN USB Output port to Axiom

Mac OS X

USB Axiom Port 1 USB Axiom Port 2 USB Axiom

Windows Class Driver

USB Audio Device* USB Audio Device* USB Audio Device*

Windows Multi-Client Driver

USB Axiom In USB Axiom In (2) USB Axiom Out

* These will appear as a single USB Audio Device in the Device Manager.

1.4 MIDI Connections

The MIDI Out port accepts a standard 5-pin DIN-type MIDI plug (available from most professional audio retailers).

The MIDI Out port can be used to connect the Axiom to a hardware sequencer, an external synthesizer or sound module, for
example.

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1.5 Power Supply

If you are using your Axiom with a computer via its USB port, there is no need for an external power supply. Your Axiom will draw its
power from the computer.

However, if you are intending to use your Axiom without connecting to a computer’s USB port, then you will need to use an external
power supply. No power supply is included in the box, so please select one that meets the following requirements:

< 12V DC < 250mA – 300mA < Center positive

Section 2: Basic MIDI Control From Your Axiom

Your Axiom controller will not make any sound unless it is connected to a computer or other external MIDI gear. This is because the
Axiom sends MIDI data when you play it and does not produce sound on its own. Instead, it is used to control a virtual instrument on
your computer or a MIDI sound module to generate sounds.

Programming MIDI data can get complicated at times, so with the Axiom range of keyboards, we have strived to make MIDI programming
as simple as possible. In this section we look at the most common MIDI messages and how to program them on your Axiom.

So to begin, you should familiarize yourself with the function button panel.

This is a good place to introduce you to the way we approach the differences between the Axiom 61 and 49 and the Axiom 25. The
appearance and functionality of the Axiom 61 and 49 are the same, it’s just the size of the keyboard that is different, thus when we
give instructions for these models, they are always grouped together. The Axiom 25 looks different and a number of its functions are
accessed in a different way, so for this model we will always give you a separate set of instructions.

2.0.1 Axiom 49 And 61 Functions

Numeric Keypad

Use the numeric keypad to enter values during programming. The LCD display will show the values as you enter them.

2.0.2 Axiom 25 Functions

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Advanced

A number of advanced functions on the Axiom 25 are accessed from the keyboard itself. These functions are listed above the

keys on the front panel of the unit.

To use any one of these functions, first press the Advanced button. The button will light indicating that the keyboard is now

in Advanced Function mode. The keys can now be used to select the functions shown above them, instead of sending MIDI
notes.

Here is a list of the advanced functions that are available on your Axiom 25:

White Keys: Black Keys: Numeric Data Entry Keys

Ctrl Assign

Zone Chan Numbers 0-9 and Enter.

Chan Assign

Ctrl Select

Vel Lock

Data 1

Bank LSB Data 2

Bank MSB Data 3

Mem Dump Curve (Velocity curve, Pad curve, Rotary encoder acceleration curve)

MIDI Out (from USB)

Store

Some of the functions on the Axiom 25 require you to enter numeric values. These functions are used in the following way:

< Press the Advanced button.

< Press the key of the function (for example, Bank LSB).

< Enter the data value using the Numeric Data Entry keys 0-9 on the keyboard (printed above the keyboard). In this

example type in a value between 0 and 127.

< Press the Enter key to confirm the value.

Use the -/+ buttons to make small single step adjustments. As you enter data from the keyboard numeric keys or use the -/+

buttons, the current value is displayed on the LCD.

2.0.3 Function Index

Function Section Function Section

Advanced (Axiom 25 only)

2.0.2 Mem. Dump 3.2.2

-/+ 2.0.2 Dev. ID (Axiom 49, 61 only) 3.2.3

Snapshot

3.3.3 MIDI Out 4.1

Zone Range 3.6.4 Store 3.2.2

Zone/Group

3.6.2 Zone Chan. 3.6.3

Recall* 3.2 Ctrl Select 2.4.2

Program*

2.4.2 and 3.6.6 Data 1 3.1

Mute 3.3.1 Data 2 3.1

Null 3.3.2 Data 3 3.1

Glob. Chan*

2.2 & 3.6.7.3 Drawbar 3.1.2

Panic 2.4.3 Curve (Axiom 25 only) 2.1.1, 3.4.1 and 3.5.5

Ctrl Assign

2.4.2 Accel Curve (Axiom 49, 61 only) 3.4.1

Chan. Assign

3.6.7 Vel Curve (Axiom 49, 61 only) 2.1.1

Vel. Lock

3.5.6 Pad Curve (Axiom 49, 61 only) 3.5.5

Bank LSB 2.3 and 3.6.6 Numeric Keypad (Axiom 49, 61 only) 2.0.1

Bank MSB 2.3 and 3.6.6 Data Entry Keys (Axiom 25 only) 2.0.2

* The -/+ buttons will remember the last function used from these three: Recall, Program and Global Channel. After using one of
these functions, the same function will be called the next time you press the – or + keys. When you press a different one of these
function buttons, the -/+ keys will then remember this function as the last one used. To type in a value for one of these functions on
the Axiom 25, press Advance.d followed by the function button and then use the number keys on the keyboard followed by ENTER.
On the Axiom 49 and Axiom 61, simply press the desired function button then enter a value using the numeric keypad.

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2.1 The Keyboard

When you play the keyboard, MIDI note messages are sent. These messages are read by your computer software or external MIDI
gear and used to generate sound accordingly.

2.1.1 Velocity Curve

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

0

20

40

60

80

10

0

12

0

14

0

0

20

40

60

80

10

0

12

0

14

0

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

0

20

40

60

80

10

0

12

0

14

0

0

20

40

60

80

10

0

12

0

14

0

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

Every time you press a key, a MIDI note message is sent with a velocity value between 0 and 127; this value specifies how hard you
pressed the key. A velocity value of 0 specifies that the key has been released. Since different people have different playing styles,
your Axiom offers a number of different velocity curves. You should experiment with the different velocity curves to find the curve
that best suits your playing style.

It is also possible to send fixed velocities each time you press a key. This is useful when composing drum parts or simple synthesizer
tracks. The fixed velocities are selected by assigning curve 10 to 12 as follows:

Curve Fixed Velocity Value

F10 64

F11 100

F12 127

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To change the velocity curve:

49- and 61-note versions:

< Locate the label Vel Curve. Press the two buttons above this label.

< The LCD will show the currently selected velocity curve, preceded by a ‘C’ if a curve is selected, or ‘F’ if a fixed

velocity is selected.

< Enter the new curve number using the numeric keypad or use the -/+ keys to select a different curve.

25-note version:

< Press the Advanced button. This sets the keyboard to control data entry.

< Press the Curve key on the keyboard.

< The LCD will show the currently selected velocity curve preceded by a ‘C’ if a curve is selected, or ‘F’ if a fixed

velocity is selected.

< Enter the new curve number using the numeric data entry keys or use the -/+ keys to select a different curve..

< Press the ENTER key to confirm the selected curve.

The velocity curve is saved whenever you power down your Axiom.

2.1.2 Octave

There are 128 possible notes that can be sent as MIDI messages. If you wish to play a note that is out of your keyboard’s range, it
is possible to shift the keyboard’s range up or down using the Octave buttons. The Octave buttons shift the range of the keyboard
up or down by 12 notes at a time. All of the 128 notes can be accessed via the Octave button.

To access all 11 available octaves from your keyboard:

< Locate the Octave buttons.

< Press < to shift down one octave at a time.

Or

< Press > to shift up one octave at a time.

2.1.3 Transpose

The Octave buttons can also be used to transpose your keyboard. Some players like to play in a particular key like C or F, for
example. Transpose lets you change the pitch you are controlling and continue to play in the key that is most comfortable for you.
It is possible to transpose up or down by as much as 12 MIDI notes (or semitones). This means if you press one of the transpose
buttons 12 times, the tone will sound exactly one octave higher or lower.

To transpose the pitch you are playing:

< Locate the Octave / Transpose buttons and press them both together. The current transpose value will show on the LCD

display.

< Press either > to transpose up by one half step, or < to transpose down by one half step. The transpose value on the

LCD will update accordingly.

< When you stop pressing the Octave / Transpose buttons, the “Trans” symbol on the LCD display will stop flashing and

performance mode will resume.

The maximum transpose value is +12 (up) or -12 (down) semitones.

Once you have set the transpose value, the Octave / Transpose buttons will again control the Octave shift.

Octave and Transpose settings can be saved to any of the 20 memory locations of your Axiom. This process is explained in

section 3.2.

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2.2 MIDI Channel

MIDI messages can be sent on any of 16 channels. If you are connected to a computer, the MIDI software will be receiving on all
channels in most cases. However, when you are connected to external MIDI synthesizers, sound modules and some virtual instruments,
you need to match the transmit channel of your keyboard with the receiving channel of the MIDI device for the connection to work
properly.

To set the channel of your keyboard:

49- and 61-note versions:

< Press the Glob Chan button. The LCD will show the channel on which the keyboard is currently transmitting.

< Enter a channel between 1-16 on the numeric keypad. The LCD will update to display the new channel selected as

you enter the data.

< You can also use the -/+ buttons to step through the channels.

25-note version:

< Press Recall and Program together to access the Glob Chan setting. The LCD will flash the GLOB CHAN

symbol.

< Use the -/+ buttons to select a channel between 1-16. As you press these buttons, you will see the selected channel

change on the LCD display.

Or

< Press the Advanced button.

< Press Recall and Program together to access the Glob. Chan setting.

< Enter a channel between 1-16 on the numeric data entry keys.

< Press the Enter key to confirm the entered value.

Controlling Percussion Sounds – Setting the transmit channel of your keyboard to channel 10 will allow you to control percussion
sounds on any GM, GM2, GS or XG compatible module or synthesizer.

The Global MIDI channel setting can be saved to any of the 20 memory locations of your Axiom. This process is explained in detail
in section 3.2.

Note: It is possible to assign the controls of your Axiom to channels on an individual basis. This is explained in section 3.6.7.

2.3 Program and Bank Changes

Program messages (commonly referred to as program changes) are used to select different instrument sounds in a MIDI device.
Program messages cover a range of 128 instruments. These instruments are accessed by sending program numbers 0 to 127.

Some MIDI devices have more than 128 instruments. If this is the case, the instruments tend to be separated into groups of 128, called
banks. You can send bank MSB and bank LSB messages to access these different banks. Please consult the user manual of your MIDI
device to see how the bank change numbers relate to the sounds on your device.

To send a program change:

49- and 61-note versions:

< Press the Program button.

< The LCD will flash the program number that was last sent out.

< Enter the program change in the range 0-127 on the numeric keypad.

< You can also use the -/+ buttons to step through programs.

25-note version:

< Press the Program button.

< The LCD will flash the PROG symbol.

< Use the -/+ buttons to select a program change in the range 0-127.

Or

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< Press the Advanced button.

< Press the Program button.

< Enter the program change in the range of 0-127 on the numeric data entry keys.

< Press the Enter key to confirm the entered value

To send a bank change:

49- and 61-note versions:

< Press the Bank LSB or Bank MSB button.

< The LCD will flash the bank number that was last sent out.

< Enter the new bank number in the range of 0-127 on the numeric keypad.

25-note version:

< Press the Advanced button.

< Press either the Bank LSB key or Bank MSB key.

< The LCD will flash the bank number that was last sent out.

< Enter the new bank number in the range 0-127 on the numeric data entry keys.

< Press the Enter key to confirm the entered value.

Program and bank settings can be saved to any of the 20 memory locations on your Axiom. This process is explained in detail

in section 3.2.

2.4 MIDI Controller Messages

There are 128 MIDI controller messages that are used for controlling the MIDI-adjustable parameters in your software or on your
external MIDI gear. Examples of these controllable parameters include volume, pan, expression, reverb, chorus and portamento.

Each of the controls on your Axiom keyboard is able to send any of the 128 standard MIDI controller messages to control such
parameters. Please note that in order for these effects to work, the MIDI device you are sending to must be able to receive these
messages. A full list of these control messages is given in Appendix C.

For example, you may want to set the Modulation wheel to control the reverb amount. This is done by assigning controller 91 to the
Modulation wheel (control A10 on Axiom 25, control A19 on Axiom 49 and Axiom 61). .

Examples of other popular effects are listed in the table below. (Please consult Appendix C for the full list.)

Effect Control Number

Modulation 1

Volume

7

Pan 10

Expression

11

Reverb depth

91

Chorus depth 93

There are many different types of virtual instruments available and most of these respond to MIDI controller messages, allowing
you to control a variety of parameters from your Axiom keyboard. Please review the manual that came with your software or
external gear to see what these controller numbers are.

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2.4.1 Extra Messages – 128 To 131

You may have noticed that although we have stated there are 128 MIDI controller messages (0 – 127), Appendix C shows 132
assignable controller messages. This is because messages 128 – 131 are a different type of MIDI message, defined in the General
MIDI Specification as RPN messages. You can assign these to the controls on your Axiom keyboard in exactly the same way as any
other MIDI controller message. The RPN messages control the following:

Controller Number MIDI Message Use

128 Pitch Bend Sensitivity Alters the range of a pitch bend message

129 Master Tune (coarse) Adjusts the tuning of your sound module or synthesizer in large steps

130 Master Tune (fine) Adjusts the tuning of your sound module or synthesizer in small steps

131 Monophonic Aftertouch* Adds a vibrato effect

*Monophonic aftertouch is not an RPN message. However, it is an additional effect message defined in the General MIDI specification
and this is why we have included it in Appendix C.

2.4.2 Programming the Controls on Your Axiom

When programming a physical controller on your Axiom, the controller that was last used will be the first one selected for
programming. To select a different physical controller for programming, use one of the following two methods:

Method 1:

25-, 49- and 61-note versions:

< Move the physical controller you wish to program, or press the assignable button or pad.

Method 2:

49- and 61-note versions:

< Press Chan Assign and Ctrl Assign together to access the Ctrl Select setting.

< The LCD display will flash the last used control.

< Use the numeric keypad to enter the number of the physical controller you want to select for programming.

25-note version:

< Press the Advanced button.

< Press the Ctrl Select key on the keyboard.

< The LCD display will show the last used control.

< Use the numeric data entry keys to enter the number of the physical controller you want to select for

programming.

< Press the Enter key to confirm and return to performance mode.

The advantage of method 2 is that you do not have to move a control to select it – so there is no danger of disturbing a

parameter on the MIDI device you are controlling.

Programming a control:

49- and 61-note versions:

< Select the physical controller for programming using method 1 or 2 above.

< Press the Ctrl Assign button.

< The LCD display will show the currently assigned MIDI controller number The physical controller you are

programming is displayed in the bottom left hand corner of the LCD display for clarity.

< Use the numeric keypad or the -/+ buttons to enter the MIDI controller number 0-131 as defined in Appendix C.

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25-note version:

< Select the physical controller for programming using method 1 or 2 above.

< Press the Advanced button.

< Press the Ctrl Assign key on the keyboard.

< The LCD display will show the currently assigned MIDI controller number The physical controller you are

programming is displayed in the bottom left hand corner of the LCD display for clarity.

< Use the numeric data entry keys or the -/+ buttons to enter the MIDI controller 0-131 as defined in Appendix C.

< Press the Enter key to confirm and return to performance mode.

The settings for your controllers can be saved to any of the 20 memory locations on your Axiom. This process is

explained in detail in section 3.2.

Note: By default, the LCD display shows transmitted real time controller values between 0 and 127 as a physical control

like an encoder or fader is being moved. Alternatively, the LCD can be configured to only show the assigned controller
number of the currently used physical controller (e.g. controller number 7 for Volume). The LCD display mode can be
changed as follows:

< Press the Zone Range and Zone/Group buttons together.

< The LCD will display OFF.

< Simultaneously press the Zone Range and Zone/Group buttons again to change the LCD back to its default mode.

The LCD will display ON.

2.4.3 Panic

At times you may find that the sound on your sound module or virtual instrument does not seem correct, or that notes get “stuck”
and sound continuously. When this happens, press the button combination for Panic which will send ‘reset all controllers’ and ‘all
notes off’ commands. This will release stuck notes and reset controller values back to normal. The messages are sent on all 16
MIDI channels. The LCD will show “Panic” while these messages are transmitted.

49- and 61-note versions:

< Press Data 1 and Data 2 together.

25-note version:

< Press Mute and Null together.

2.4.4 Reset

It is possible to completely reset your keyboard at any time. To do this, turn the Axiom off and then press and hold down both of
the -/+ buttons as you power up the keyboard.

Important Note: When you perform this reset, all of the factory presets are lost. To restore the factory presets, please use the
Enigma software, available as a free download at www.m-audio.com.

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Section 3: Advanced Features

In section 2 we saw how to use the keyboard, send program and bank changes, and assign MIDI controllers to the various controls
on your Axiom. These basic skills allow you to perform with many software applications, sound modules and synthesizers. However,
the Axiom has some more advanced features that allow you to take your performances even further. In this section we look at these
features and how you can make use of them.

(If you have not done so already, please familiarize yourself with the various functions used when programming your Axiom. Details
of these functions are given in section 2)

3.1 MIDI Controllers

Appendix C lists all the standard MIDI controller messages and some additional common messages all of which can be assigned to
the controls on your Axiom.

Here we introduce an expanded list of MIDI controllers and also different ways that the controls on the Axiom are able to function.
Since these extra controller numbers are specific to different types of controls on the Axiom, please consult the appendices:

Axiom Control Controller Definition Table

Sliders (Axiom 49/61 only)

Appendix D

Aftertouch strip

Appendix D

Expression pedal

Appendix D

Pitch Bend wheel Appendix D

Modulation wheel Appendix D

Sustain pedal Appendix E

Transport buttons

Appendix E

Assignable buttons (Axiom 49/61 only)

Appendix E

Rotary encoders

Appendix F

Pressure Pads

Appendix G

Each MIDI controller has either two or three extra data parameters associated with it, as shown in the appendices listed above. The
function of these extra data parameters depends on what MIDI controller number is assigned to the selected Axiom control. The
appendices above show the details of what this functionality may be. The extra data parameters for a controller are accessed using
the Data 1, Data 2 and Data 3 buttons on the 49- and 61-note versions, and the Advanced button, followed by the Data 1, Data 2 or
Data 3 keys on the 25-note version.

The useful programming examples given below describe some of the uses for these extra data parameters.

3.1.1 Limiting the Range of Controllers

It is possible to limit the range of the sliders, aftertouch strip, expression pedal or encoders on your Axiom.

This is achieved using

the extra data parameters for the controller as follows:

49- and 61-note versions:

< Set the physical controller to transmit a MIDI controller message as described in section 2.4.2.

< Press Data 2 and enter the minimum value for the controller’s range.

< Press Data 3 and enter the maximum value for the controller’s range.

25-note version:

< Set the physical controller to transmit a MIDI controller message as described in section 2.4.2.

< Press the Advanced button.

< Press the Data 2 key and enter the minimum value for the controller’s range.

< Press Enter to confirm the change for the minimum value.

< Press the Advanced button.

< Press the Data 3 key and enter the maximum value for the controller’s range.

< Press Enter to confirm the change for the maximum value.

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3.1.2 Drawbar Mode

Drawbar mode is a quick method of reversing the direction of the nine sliders on your Axiom 49 or 61. If you are controlling an
instrument that makes use of drawbars rather than faders—the MB-3 electric organ on Key Rig for example—then you should
use drawbar mode.

The Drawbar function is not available on the 25-note version.

Press Data 3 and Chan Assign together to enable Drawbar mode. When Drawbar mode is active, this will be indicated by the
Drawbar symbol in the LCD display.

The status of Drawbar mode can be saved in any of the 20 memory locations. It will also be saved when you power down your
Axiom.

NOTE: It is possible to reverse the direction of any control on your Axiom 25, 49 or 61, by switching the minimum and maximum
limits for the controller (for example: min=127 and max=0; refer to the previous section for details on how to do this).

3.1.3 Turning Controls OFF

Stop a control from transmitting MIDI data by turning that control OFF. This is done as follows:

49- and 61-note versions:

< Select the controller as described in section 2.4.2.

< Press the Ctrl Assign button and enter “000” on the numeric keypad.

< While the LCD is still flashing, press the data minus (–) button.

< The LCD will now display OFF.

25-note version:

< Select the controller using the method described in section 2.4.2.

< Press the Advanced button.

< Press the Ctrl Assign key, and enter ‘000’ using the numeric data entry keys.

< Press Enter to confirm.

< Press the Advanced button, followed by the Ctrl Assign key again.

< Press the data minus (-) button

< The LCD will now display OFF.

< Press Enter to confirm.

3.2 Recollection and Storage of Your Control Setups

Once you have programmed the controls of your Axiom, you can store your setup into one of the 20 memory locations the Axiom
offers.

The 20 locations are accessed using the Store and Recall buttons. Use the Store button to write your control setups to a memory
location. Use the Recall button to get your control setups back.

To store all of the current control settings on your Axiom:

49- and 61-note versions:

< Press the Store button.

< Enter the number of the memory location (1 to 20) using the numeric keypad.

25-note version:

< Press the Advanced button.

< Press the Store key.

< Enter the number of the memory location (1 to 20) using the numeric data entry keys, or the -/+ buttons.

< Press the Enter key to confirm and overwrite this preset location.