Venom™ User Guide
Legal Notices
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, Pro Tools, Pro Tools M-Powered and M-Audio 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 9329-65009-00 REV A 08/10
Documentation Feedback
We are always looking for ways to improve our documentation. If you have comments, corrections, or suggestions regarding our documentation, email us at techpubs@avid.com.
Contents
Chapter 1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Venom Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Minimum Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
M-Audio Venom Drivers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Chapter 2. Controls and Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Top Panel Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Front Panel Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Back Panel Controls and Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Chapter 3. Using Venom Standalone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Making Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Using the Arpeggiator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Using Global Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Resetting Venom Defaults. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Demo Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Chapter 4. Using Venom with USB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Making Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Configuring Venom on Mac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Configuring Venom on Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Control Panel Pattern Import and About Pages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Using Venom with your DAW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Chapter 5. Advanced Synthesizer and Effects Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Vyzex Venom Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Common Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Single Program Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Multi Program Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Pattern Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Global Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Bank Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Appendix A. MIDI Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
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MIDI Channel Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
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Venom User Guide |
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Contents |
Appendix B. System Exclusive Implementation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
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SysEx Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
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Handshaking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
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Arpeggiator Data Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
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SysEx Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
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Appendix C. Compliance Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
104 |
Environmental Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
104 |
EMC (Electromagnetic Compliance). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
105 |
Safety Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . |
106 |
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
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Contents |
Chapter 1: Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of M-Audio® Venom™. Venom is a 49-key “virtual analog” synthesizer, USB-compatible MIDI controller, and audio interface in one convenient package. You can play Venom as a standalone synthesizer and use it as an audio mixer; or you can use it as a USB MIDI controller and audio interface with your computer. You can also use Venom as an effects processor (the audio inputs on Venom are routed through the multimode filter and on-board effects). Whether performing live or working in the studio, Venom is a powerful and compact music production tool for any musician.
Venom Features
Keyboard Controller
•49-key synth action, velocity sensitive keyboard
•Octave Up / Down buttons
•Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheels
•Sustain and Expression pedal inputs
•4 multi-function encoders (knobs)
•1 multi-function button
Synthesizer
•4-part multi-timbral
•12-voice polyphony
•Poly or Mono mode
•Unison mode for voice stacking (up to 12 voices)
•512 Patch Locations: Banks A–D, each containing 128 Single Programs
•256 Multi Setups: Banks A and B, each containing 128 Multi Programs
•Up to 4 on-board phrase arpeggiators with tap tempo
•3 Oscillators
•Pulse Width Modulation (Oscillator 1 Waveshaper)
•Sync (Oscillators 2 and 3 to Oscillator 1)
•Frequency Modulation (FM) (Oscillator 3 modulates Oscillator 1)
•Ring Modulation (Oscillator 2 modulates Oscillator 1)
Venom User Guide |
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Chapter 1: Introduction |
•Multimode Filter with Resonance:
•2-Pole Low Pass (LP 12)
•4-Pole Low Pass (LP 24)
•2-Pole Band Pass (BP 12)
•4-Pole Band Pass (BP 24)
•2-Pole High Pass (HP 12)
•4-Pole High Pass (HP 24)
•3 Low Frequency Oscillators (LFOs) with selectable Sample and Hold
•3 5-part Envelopes (AHDSR): Amplitude, Filter, and assignable envelopes
•16-slot Modulation Matrix
•Up to 4 insert effects (1 per multi-timbral part)
•2 Global Effects Busses
Audio Mixer and USB Audio Interface
•Left and Right 1/4-inch line level outputs
•Stereo 1/4-inch headphone jack
•24-bit/44.1 kHz sample rate AD and DA converters
•Left and Right RCA line level aux inputs
•Mono 1/4-inch instrument level input
•1/4-inch Mic input
•Master Volume control
•Synth Volume control
•Direct Monitor level control with Mono Monitor button
•Instrument and Mic Input level controls
USB MIDI Interface
• 1x1 USB MIDI interface
Venom User Guide |
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Chapter 1: Introduction |
Minimum Requirements
Standalone Operation
Standalone operation refers to using Venom without a computer. The included power supply is required to power Venom. To hear the synth when playing the keyboard, connect the Venom output jacks to an amplifier, mixer, or powered monitors. You can also connect headphones to the front-panel headphone jack. You can connect a microphone or instrument to the audio input jacks. Along with the line inputs, these can all be mixed on the keyboard and heard with the synth sounds using an amplifier or headphones.
USB Operation
When using Venom with your computer, use the included USB cable to connect Venom to your computer. While the USB connection is necessary to pass audio and MIDI to and from your computer, this connection does not provide power to your keyboard. Use the included power supply to power Venom.
Minimum System Requirements
Minimum system requirements for USB operation can be found on our website: www.m-audio.com.
Before Updating Your Mac or Windows System
Please check the M-Audio driver download page for the availability of an updated driver before you decide to install operating system updates: http://www.m-audio.com/drivers
Before new M-Audio device drivers are released, they are tested for use with the operating system versions that are available at that time. When updates for an operating system are released by Microsoft or Apple, all M-Au- dio device drivers have to be tested and possibly updated to ensure proper operation.
M-Audio recommends refraining from installing operating system updates until a driver has been posted to the M-Audio website.
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Chapter 1: Introduction |
M-Audio Venom Drivers
Windows XP, Vista, and 7
Avid recommends that Windows users download and install the most recent Venom drivers found on our website (www.m-audio.com). If you do not have access to the internet, you can install the drivers using the included Venom installation disk.
These drivers add functionality and let you:
•Use Venom with Pro Tools® M-Powered™ recording software.
•Achieve low latency monitoring with ASIO-compatible applications, such as Ableton Live or Cubase.
•Use the M-Audio Venom control panel to import MIDI files for the phrase arpeggiator.
•Use Venom with more than one application at the same time.
•Use long system exclusive (SysEx) commands—required to use the Vyzex Venom Editor application.
•Simultaneously use other class-compliant USB devices with audio capabilities.
Venom is also a class-compliant device that offers basic functionality on Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7 systems without having to install additional drivers.
IMPORTANT: When using Venom class-compliant (i.e., without installing drivers) in Windows, the computer will search for the M-Audio DFU (device firmware upgrade tool) and display a Found New Hardware Wizard. The M-Audio DFU is a component of Venom that is enabled when the M-Audio Venom drivers are installed, but is not necessary for class-compliant operation. You have the following options:
•Cancel the Found New Hardware Wizard and start using Venom immediately. The Found New Hardware Wizard will appear every time your computer detects that Venom is connected (when restarting your computer or Venom, or disconnecting and reconnecting Venom).
•Follow the Found New Hardware Wizard until it gives the option not to be prompted to install this hardware again.
•Download and install the latest drivers from our website (www.m-audio.com), and follow the onscreen instructions. If you do not have access to the internet, you can install the drivers using the included Venom installation disk. After these drivers have been installed, the Found New Hardware Wizard for the M-Audio DFU will no longer be displayed.
•The installation procedure is described in the printed Quick Setup Guide.
Mac OS X
Driver installation is not required in order to use Venom with your Mac OS X computer. However, you download and install the Venom drivers from our website (www.m-audio.com), and follow the onscreen instructions if you wish to do either of the following:
•Use Venom with Pro Tools M-Powered recording software.
•Use the M-Audio Venom control panel to import MIDI files for the phrase arpeggiator.
If you do not have access to the internet, you can install the drivers using the included Venom disk. Otherwise, the class-compliant drivers built into Mac OS X provide full support for all features of Venom with Core Audio and Core MIDI.
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Chapter 1: Introduction |
Chapter 2: Controls and Connections
Top Panel Overview
Phrase Arpeggiator buttons |
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Value control |
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Gain controls |
Performance controls Mode buttons LCD display |
Multi Control buttons |
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Pitch Bend and Mod wheels |
Bank button |
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49-key keyboard
Octave/Transpose buttons
Figure 1. Venom top panel
Gain Controls
Master Volume Controls the master volume output from Venom.
Synth Volume Controls the volume of the Venom synthesizer sent to the Master Volume (Main Outputs).
Direct Monitor Controls the volume of the audio signal from the Instrument Input and Mic Input sources sent directly to the Master Volume (Main Outputs).
Mic Gain Controls the input gain of the audio signal from the Mic Input. When the incoming signal is greater than –20 dB, the LED lights green to indicate the presence of an incoming audio signal on the Microphone Input. The LED lights red to indicate clipping. Adjust the Mic Gain level to the highest setting possible without clipping to get a good signal level for recording when using Venom with any audio recording software.
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Chapter 2: Controls and Connections |
Inst Gain Controls the input gain of the audio signal from the Instrument Input. When the incoming signal is greater than –20 dB, the LED lights green to indicate the presence of an incoming audio signal on the Instrument Input. The LED lights red to indicate clipping. Adjust the Inst Gain level to the highest setting possible without clipping to get a good signal level for recording when using Venom with any audio recording software.
Mono Monitor Button
Mono Monitor Button This button switches the headphone and main outputs to Mono Monitor mode. Mono Monitor mode pans these audio output signals to the center of the stereo field, allowing you to hear a mono mix of your recorded tracks.
Phrase Arpeggiator
On/Off Button Enables (or disables) the Phrase Arpeggiator.
Tap Tempo Button Lets you tap in the tempo (tap at least twice) for the Phrase Arpeggiator, LFOs and tempobased delay effects. The LED blinks on and off in time with the quarter note pulse. Press and hold the Tap Tempo button to set the tempo using the Value knob.
Arpeggiator Latch Simultaneously pressing the On/Off and Tap Tempo buttons switches the Arpeggiator Latch function on and off. The LCD screen display the status as either “ARP LATCH ON” or “ARP LATCH OFF”.
Octave/Transpose Buttons
Octave/Transpose Buttons Let you transpose the keyboard up or down in octaves (+/–3) and semitones (+/–12). Press the left button to transpose down by an octave and press the right button to transpose up by an octave. Press both buttons simultaneously to enable transposition by semitones. Alternately, while holding both buttons down, adjust the Value knob to set an offset of +/–12 semitones. You can also press a key on the keyboard while holding both buttons down to set the transposition. Pressing any key above or below middle C sets the level of transposition to that key (up or down). Pressing middle C resets the transposition back to 0.
Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheels
Pitch Bend Wheel Sends MIDI pitch bend messages to the synthesizer as well as the USB and MIDI Out ports. This lets you create expressive changes in your performances by raising and lowering pitch. Moving the Pitch Bend wheel upward raises the pitch of the synthesizer, and moving it downward lowers the pitch. When using Venom to control another hardware synthesizer or a software synthesizer, the upper and lower pitch bend limit is determined by settings on your hardware or software synthesizer, not by the Pitch Bend wheel on Venom. This wheel is spring mounted and returns to the center position when released.
Modulation Wheel Sends MIDI CC 1 messages to the synthesizer as well as the USB and MIDI Out ports. This can add expression to your performance by changing the intensity of certain effects. Typically, the Modulation Wheel is used to control vibrato (change in intonation) or tremolo (change in volume). The MIDI data range of the Modulation wheel is 0 to 127, with 0 being the note-unchanged position.
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Chapter 2: Controls and Connections |
Performance Control Matrix
The Performance Control Matrix lets you edit certain parameters of the synthesizer in real-time. This provides you with expressive control of the synthesizer during performance beyond simply playing preset synth sounds.
Matrix Row Select Buttons and LEDs
Use the Matrix Row Select buttons to select the next or previous Matrix row (1–6) as printed to the left of the Matrix Controller Knobs and Button. The selected Matrix row determines what synth parameters are controlled by the Matrix Controller knobs (1–4) and the Matrix Control button. The selected row is indicated by which of the 6 LEDs below the Matrix Row is lit.
Matrix Controller Knobs 1–4
Each Matrix Controller knob affects specific synthesizer parameters based on the currently selected Matrix Row. The Matrix Controller knobs also send out continuous controller values (0–127) on different MIDI CC numbers depending on the selected Matrix row. Table 3 below shows which parameters (and MIDI CC numbers) are controlled by each of the four knobs according to the selected Matrix Row (1–6).
Matrix Control Button and LED
The Matrix Control button selects different options for specific synthesizer parameters based on the currently selected Matrix Row. The Matrix Control button also sends out continuous controller values (0 or 127) on different MIDI CC numbers depending on the selected Matrix row. The right column in Table 3 below shows which parameters (and MIDI CC numbers) are affected by the Matrix Control button according to the selected Matrix Row (1–6). For the 5 parameters that can be set to either on or off (such as Sync On/Off), the LED illuminates to indicate that the parameter is set to On.
Table 3. Matrix Controls
Matrix Row |
Knob 1 |
Knob 2 |
Knob 3 |
Knob 4 |
Button |
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1 |
Filter Cutoff |
Filter Resonance |
Filter Envelope |
Filter Keytrack |
Filter Type |
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(CC 03 Coarse, |
(CC 71: 0–127) |
Amount |
(CC 104: 0–127) |
(CC 70: 0–7) |
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CC 35 Fine) |
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(CC 103: 0–127) |
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2 |
FM level of Oscil- |
Ring Modulation |
Oscillator 2 Pitch |
Oscillator 3 Pitch |
Sync On/Off |
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lator 3 to Oscilla- |
Level |
(CC 30 Coarse, |
(CC 31 Coarse, |
(NRPN 017DH, |
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tor 1 |
(CC 51: 0–127) |
CC 62 Fine) |
CC 63 Fine) |
NRPN 017EH) |
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(CC 50: 0–127) |
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3 |
Filter Envelope, |
Filter Envelope, |
Filter Envelope, |
Filter Envelope, |
Unison On/Off |
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Attack |
Decay |
Sustain |
Release |
(NRPN 016AH) |
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(CC 20: 0–127) |
(CC 22: 0–127) |
(CC 23: 0–127) |
(CC 24: 0–127) |
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4 |
Amplitude Enve- |
Amplitude Enve- |
Amplitude Enve- |
Amplitude Enve- |
Poly/Mono mode |
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lope, Attack |
lope, Decay |
lope, Sustain |
lope, Release |
(CC 126 Mono, |
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(CC 73: 0–127) |
(CC 75: 0–127) |
(CC 79: 0–127) |
(CC 72: 0–127) |
CC 127 Poly) |
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5 |
LFO 1 Rate |
LFO 2 Rate |
LFO 2 Shape |
Glide Time |
Glide On/Off |
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(CC 86: 0–127) |
(CC 14: 0–127) |
(CC 15: 0–7) |
(CC 5: 0–127) |
(CC 65: 0/127) |
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Volume |
Pan |
FX Send 1 Level |
FX Send 2 Level |
FX Insert On/Off |
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(CC 7: 0–127) |
(CC 10: 0–127) |
(CC 91: 0–127) |
(CC 93: 0–127) |
(NRPN 0120H) |
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Venom User Guide |
7 |
Chapter 2: Controls and Connections |
Mode Buttons
Multi Button
Press the Multi button to enable Multi mode. The button lights when Multi mode is enabled. In multimode, Venom is multi-timbral and can play up to four Multi Parts (referencing Single Programs) at the same time. However, the 12 available voices are dynamically allocated from one Multi Part to another. Because the last note requested or played has the highest priority, new voices needed for other Multi Parts will be “stolen” from the oldest notes played in the original Multi Part.
Single Button
Press the Single button to enable Single mode. The button lights when Single mode is enabled. In Single mode, Venom is monotimbral and only plays one Single Program at a time.
Pattern Button
When in Single mode (the Single button is lit), pressing the Pattern button enables (or disables) Single Pattern Mode and the Pattern button lights. The pattern bank and number is displayed on the LCD screen.
When in Multi mode (the Multi button is lit), pressing the Pattern button enables (or disables) Multi Pattern Mode and the Pattern button lights. The pattern bank and number for the selected Multi part is displayed on the LCD screen.
Store Button
When in Single mode (the Single button is lit), pressing the Store button enables Single Store mode to save the current synthesizer settings (the Store button flashes). Use the Bank button and Value knob to select the Bank and Program location where you want to store the current settings for the Single Program. Press the Store button a second time to save the Single Program settings to the selected Bank and Preset location.
When in Multi mode (the Multi button is lit), pressing the Store button enables Multi Store mode to save the current Multi mode settings (the Store button flashes). Use the Bank button and Value knob to select the Bank and Multi Program location where you want to store the current settings for the Multi Program. Press the Store button a second time to save the Multi Program settings to the selected Bank and Preset location.
Editing and saving any Single Program affects all Multi Programs that have Multi Parts that reference the same Single Program Bank and Program Number.
Editing and saving any Multi Program does not save changes to any referenced Single Program (Multi Part). Enter Single Mode to save changes to any Single Programs referenced by Multi Parts.
For more information, refer to “Saving Multi Programs, Parts, and Patterns” on page 19.
LCD Display
The LCD Display shows the selected Bank (A, B, C, or D) and Patch number for Venom presets. If the patch has been edited, the word “Edited” is lit in the LCD. When editing parameters for any patch, the word “Value” lights and the value for the edited parameter is displayed. When pressing the Tap Tempo button and using the Value knob to enter a tempo, only the word “Value” and the number for the current tempo are lit.
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Value Knob and Bank Button
Value Knob
By default, the Value knob lets you select any Venom Single Program, Mutli Program, or Pattern preset. While pressing and holding the Tap Tempo button, use the Value knob to set the tempo (in BPM, where the quarter note gets the beat). While pressing and holding both Octave buttons, the Value knob lets you change the transposition (+/–12 semitones).
Bank Button
The Bank button lets you cycle through the four Single Program preset banks (A, B, C, and D), through the 2 Multi Program preset banks (A and B), or through the Pattern preset banks (A and B). Press the Bank button to select the next preset bank (when Bank D is selected in Single Program mode or when Bank B is selected in Multi Program or Pattern mode, Bank A will be the next bank).
Multi Controls
Mute/Enable/Select Button and LEDs
The Mute/Enable/Select button lets you set the current mode of the Multi Part buttons. Press the Mute/Enable/Select button to cycle through Mute, Enable, and Select modes. The corresponding LED (Mute, Enable, or Select) lights to indicate which mode is selected.
Mute When Mute mode is selected for a Multi Part, the corresponding Multi Part is muted, but it still uses Venom synthesizer voice resources and maintains reduced polyphony. This lets you quickly mute or unmute a part to determine whether or not the Multi Part is audible. This has practical performance uses. For example, if you are playing a long sustained chord and then mute a Multi Part, the sound produced by the referenced Single Program is muted. Then, if you unmute it, it is heard again.
Enable When Enable mode is selected for a Multi Part, the corresponding Multi Part is enabled and will sound when you play Venom. If a Multi Part is disabled it neither sounds nor uses any synthesizer voice resources. However, in contrast to muting a Multi Part during performance, if you hold down a chord and disable the Multi Part, you will no longer hear the referenced Single Program. If you re-enable the Multi Part while still holding the same notes, the referenced Single Program will not be heard until you re-play the chord.
Select When Select mode is selected for a Multi Part, it is selected for editing. When more than one Multi Part is selected, any edits apply to all selected Mutli Parts.
Multi Part Buttons (1–4)
The Multi Part buttons let you mute, enable, or select any of the four parts of a Multi Program depending on the setting of the Mute/Enable/Select button.
In Select mode, the LED lights to indicate that the associated part is selected for editing. You can select multiple parts for editing by pressing the corresponding buttons simultaneously. When multiple parts are selected, editing any parameter affects all selected parts. Use the Bank button and Value knob to select the bank and patch for the corresponding selected part.
In Mute mode, the LED lights to indicate that the associated part is muted. Pressing any Multi Part button mutes (or unmutes) the corresponding part.
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In Enable mode, the LED lights to indicate that the associated part is enabled. Pressing any Multi Part button enables (or disables) the corresponding part.
You can press more than one Multi Part button simultaneously to Select, Enable, or Mute (or deselect, disable, or unmute) those parts.
When MIDI data is received on a part, the associated LED flashes briefly, regardless of the Multi Control mode.
Edit
The Edit button sends an “all notes off” message and a “reset all controllers” message to all 16 MIDI channels. Press the Edit button to enable Global mode, and then press the corresponding key on the keyboard to execute the desired command (such as toggling Local Control On or Off). The LED of the Edit button flashes slowly while in Global mode. For more information about Global mode, see “Using Global Mode” on page 23. Also see “Global Editor” on page 77.
Front Panel Connector
1/4” Stereo
Headphone
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Figure 2. Venom front panel
Headphone Output
Connect your headphones to the 1/4” stereo jack on the front of Venom. Use the Master Volume control to adjust the volume for your headphones.
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Back Panel Controls and Connectors
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Figure 3. Venom back panel
Main Audio Outputs Connect the two 1/4” main audio outputs on the back panel to powered monitors, an amplifier, or a mixer. The main audio outputs include a mix of the synthesizer output and audio signals from the Aux Inputs, the Instrument Input, and the Mic Input. When using Venom with your computer, the main outputs also include the stereo mix from your computer via USB.
Auxiliary Audio Inputs Connect the two RCA auxiliary inputs to any stereo line level source (such as from another synthesizer or a mixer). The left (white) aux input is mixed with the Microphone input, and the right (red) is mixed with the Instrument input. Incoming audio can be routed through the Venom voice path at the Pre Filter Mix section and modified by the filter, amplifier and effects and then mixed to the main outputs.
When using Venom in USB mode, these inputs are also mixed with the Mic and Instrument inputs, which together show up in your DAW as audio inputs 1 and 2.
Instrument Input Connect the 1/4” Instrument input to any mono instrument source (such as an electric guitar or bass). Use the Instrument Gain control on the top panel of Venom to adjust the incoming signal level.
Mic Input Connect the 1/4” TRS Mic input to any dynamic microphone. Use the Mic Gain control on the top panel of Venom to adjust the incoming signal level.
Expression Pedal Connect an optional expression pedal to this jack. This pedal can be used as a volume pedal as well as for other MIDI continuous controller mappings. The Expression pedal always sends MIDI data on MIDI CC 11.
Sustain Pedal Connect an optional sustain pedal to this jack. This pedal is normally used for sustaining the sound you are playing without having to keep your hands on the keyboard. The Sustain pedal always sends MIDI data on MIDI CC 64.
MIDI In Port This standard 5-pin MIDI connector accepts signals from any MIDI compatible device such as a synthesizer, drum machine, or even another MIDI controller.
MIDI Out Port This standard 5-pin MIDI connector transmits signals to any MIDI compatible device such as a synthesizer, sound module, or drum machine.
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USB Port Connect this jack to any available USB port on your computer. The USB port handles all communication between Venom and your computer.
DC Power Connect the included power supply to power Venom.
Power Switch This switch powers Venom on and off.
Kensington Lock Port Connect a standard laptop-style locking security cable here to protect Venom from theft.
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Chapter 3: Using Venom Standalone
Making Connections
This chapter covers the various hardware connections when setting up Venom.
1Connect Venom to an AC outlet using the 9V power supply (included).
2Connect the Main Outputs to either powered monitors, a mixer, or amplifier. You can also connect headphones to the front panel headphone jack.
3Turn the Master Volume all the way down.
4Set the back panel power switch to the “on” position.
5Set the Master Volume knob to a reasonable level and turn up the Synth Volume knob.
For additional performance control, you can also connect a sustain pedal and an expression pedal.
Figure 4. Essential connections for using Venom as a standalone synthesizer
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Venom Audio Input Connections
Venom provides audio input for external instruments and other audio sources. Use the Gain and Volume controls on the top panel of Venom to mix any incoming audio signals along with the synthesizer output.
Figure 5 below shows one possible configuration for connecting the audio inputs and outputs for Venom:
•Connect a dynamic Mic to the Microphone Input jack (TRS). Use the Mic Gain knob on the top panel to adjust the level.
•Connect a guitar (or any other instrument-level signal) to the Instrument Input jack (TR). Use the Inst Gain knob on the top panel to adjust the level.
•Connect the stereo output of an CD player, iPod, or mixer (or any other stereo line level signal) to the left and right Aux Input jacks (RCA).
Figure 5. Connecting sources to Venom audio inputs
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Venom MIDI Connections
Venom provides MIDI Input and Output ports to which you can connect a MIDI sound module or another MIDI controller.
If you want to use another MIDI controller to play Venom, connect the MIDI Out port of your other MIDI controller to the MIDI In port on Venom. When you play your other MIDI controller, it will send MIDI to Venom and play the synthesizer. You can also use a programmable MIDI controller (such as the Evolution UC-33e) for real-time control various parameters of the synthesizer using the corresponding MIDI CC numbers (for a complete list of synthesizer parameters with MIDI CC numbers and NRPNS, see Appendix A, “MIDI Specifications”).
If you want to use Venom to play another MIDI sound module, connect the MIDI Out port of Venom to the MIDI In port on your sound module (see Figure 6 below). Then you can connect the audio outputs of your sound module to the Aux Inputs on Venom, or to another mixer or keyboard amp. When you play Venom, the MIDI from Venom will also control the connected MIDI sound module.
Connect the audio outputs of the sound module to the Aux Input jacks on Venom
Connect the MIDI Out port of Venom
to the MIDI In port of the sound module
Connect the MIDI output of
a programmable MIDI controller to the MIDI In port of Venom
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Figure 6. Connecting Venom, a MIDI sound module, and an external programmable MIDI controller
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Programs
Venom provides 4 Banks of 128 Single Programs each and 2 Banks of 128 Multi Programs each. Banks A and B of the Single Programs are “Preset Programs,” and Banks C and D can be used for storing your own “User Programs.”
Selecting Single Program Presets
A Single Program stores and recalls all of the synthesizer parameter settings for a single sound, including the settings for its Insert Effect, 2 Global Bus Effects, the Main EQ, and one Arpeggiator Pattern.
To select a Venom Single Program preset:
1Press the Single button to switch Venom to Single Mode.
2Press the Bank button to toggle through and select Bank A, B, C, or D.
3Turn the Value knob to locate and select the Single Program preset you want.
Selecting Multi Program Presets
A Multi Program stores and recalls references to up to 4 Single Programs, including the respective Insert Effect for each referenced Single Program and 2 Effects Busses for all referenced Single Programs, as well as the Main EQ, 4 Arpeggiator Patterns, and MIDI controller and keyboard assignments.
To select a Venom Multi Program preset:
1Press the Multi button to switch Venom to Multi Mode.
2Press the Bank button to select either Bank A or Bank B.
3Turn the Value knob to locate and select the Multi Program preset you want.
Editing Single Programs
Once you have selected a Single Program, you can edit it to your liking. Using the Performance Control Matrix, you can change the settings of several synthesizer parameters (see “Performance Control Matrix” on page 7). Using MIDI software with Venom connected to your computer via USB, or using a remote programmable MIDI controller (such as the Axiom Pro) you can edit most of the other synthesizer and effects parameters using the corresponding MIDI CC number or NRPN (see“Advanced Synthesizer and Effects Editing” on page 36).
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Editing Multi Programs
Each Multi Program references up to four different Single Programs. Each referenced Single Program in a Multi Program is referred to as a Multi Part. You can edit each Multi Part individually as well as in tandem.
To select a new Single Program preset for a Multi Part:
1Switch Venom to Select Mode by repeatedly pressing the Mute/Enable/Select button until the Select LED is lit
2Press the desired Multi Part button so that its LED is lit.
3Press the Bank button to select the desired Single Program Bank (A, B, C, or D).
4Adjust the Value knob to select the Single Program preset that you want the Multi Part to reference.
To edit parameters of the Single Program Preset referenced by a Multi Part:
1Press the Mute/Enable/Select button repeatedly until the Select LED is lit.
2Press the desired Multi Part button so that its LED is lit.
3Edit the parameters of the referenced Single Program using the performance controls.
To edit parameters of two or more Multi Part referenced Single Programs in tandem:
1Press the Mute/Enable/Select button repeatedly until the Select LED is lit.
2Press the desired Multi Part buttons simultaneously so that their LEDs are lit.
3Edit the parameters of the referenced Single Programs using the performance controls. Any edited parameter settings will be set to the same value for each referenced Single Program.
Saving Custom Programs and Patterns
Once you have edited a Single or Multi Program, Multi Part, or Single or Multi Part Pattern, you may want to save your changes. Certain Single, Multi Part, and Multi parameters can only be edited via MIDI or using software (rather than using the top panel controls). Single, Multi, and Multi Part Pattern parameters can only be edited via MIDI or software (and not from the top panel controls).
Saving Single Programs and Patterns
To save the current settings of a Single Program:
1Ensure that the Single button LED is lit and that you have been editing a Single Program.
2Press the Store button. Both the Single button and the Store button LEDs start flashing.
3If desired, select a new storage location for the Single:
•Press the Bank button to select the Bank where you want to save the current settings for the Single Program.
•Adjust the Value knob to select the preset location where you want to save the current settings for the Single Program.
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4If desired, rename the Single Program:
•Press the OCTAVE + button. In the Venom LCD, the first character of the program name starts flashing.
•Use the Value knob to change the character.
•Press OCTAVE + button to move to the next character to the right for editing.
•Use the OCTAVE – button to move back to the next character to the left for editing.
5Press the Store button a second time to save the Single Program settings to the selected Bank and preset location.
Editing and saving any Single Program affects all Multi Programs that have Multi Parts that reference the same Single Program Bank and Program Number.
To save the current settings of a Single Pattern (can only be edited via MIDI or software):
1Ensure that your keyboard is in single mode.
2Press the Store button. The Pattern button and the Store button LEDs start flashing.
3If desired, select a new storage location for the Single Pattern.
4If desired, rename the Single Pattern:
•Press the OCTAVE + button. In the Venom LCD, the first character of the pattern name starts flashing.
•Use the Value knob to change the character.
•Press OCTAVE + button to move to the next character to the right for editing.
•Use the OCTAVE – button to move back to the next character to the left for editing.
5Press the Store button a second time to save the Single Pattern settings to the selected Bank and preset location.
Editing and saving any Single Pattern may affect other Single and Multi Programs that reference the Pattern.
If both the Single and Pattern (can only be edited via MIDI or software) have been edited and you want to save them both:
1Press the Store button. Both the Single and Pattern button LEDs start flashing. The LCD screen will ask “StoreWhat?” prompting you to select either Single or Pattern.
2Press either the Single or Pattern button. The selected button LED starts flashing.
3If desired, select a new storage location.
4If desired, rename the Single or Pattern.
5Press the Store button.
6Press the Store button again. Either the Single or Pattern button LED starts flashing (whichever button was not previously selected.
7If desired, select a new storage location.
8If desired, rename the Single or Pattern.
9Press the Store button.
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Saving Multi Programs, Parts, and Patterns
To save the current settings of a Multi Program:
1Ensure that the Multi button LED is lit and that you have been editing a Multi Program.
2Press the Store button. The Multi button and the Store button LEDs start flashing.
3If desired, select a new storage location for the Multi Program:
•Press the Bank button to select the Bank where you want to save the current settings for the Multi Program.
•Adjust the Value knob to select the preset location where you want to save the current settings for the Multi Program.
4If desired, rename the Multi Program:
•Press the OCTAVE + button. In the Venom LCD, the first character of the program name starts flashing.
•Use the Value knob to change the character.
•Press OCTAVE + button to move to the next character to the right for editing.
•Use the OCTAVE – button to move back to the next character to the left for editing.
5Press the Store button to save the Multi Program settings to the selected Bank and preset location.
To save the current settings of a Multi Part:
This process involves a Single Program within a Multi Part. It will be stored in one of the Single Program User Banks, and it may affect references in the current Multi Part or others.
1Ensure that you are in Multi mode.
2Press the Store button.
3If desired, select a new storage location for the Multi Part Single Program:
•Press the Bank button to select the Bank where you want to save the current settings for the Multi Part Single Program.
•Adjust the Value knob to select the preset location where you want to save the current settings for the Multi Part Single Program.
4If desired, rename the Multi Part Single Program:
•Press the OCTAVE + button. In the Venom LCD, the first character of the program name starts flashing.
•Use the Value knob to change the character.
•Press OCTAVE + button to move to the next character to the right for editing.
•Use the OCTAVE – button to move back to the next character to the left for editing.
5Press the Store button to save the Multi Part Single Program settings to the selected Bank and preset location.
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To save the current settings for multiple selected Multi Parts:
1Ensure that your keyboard is in Multi mode.
2Press the Store button. The selected Multi Part buttons and the Store button LEDs start flashing. The LCD screen will ask “StoreWhat?” prompting you to select the Multi Parts you are storing.
You can exit Store mode without saving your changes by pressing one of the other unlit Mode buttons.
3Press the Multi Part button you want to save.
4If desired, select a new storage location for the Multi Part Single Program:
•Press the Bank button to select the Bank where you want to save the current settings for the Multi Part Single Program.
•Adjust the Value knob to select the preset location where you want to save the current settings for the Multi Part Single Program.
5If desired, rename the Multi Part Single Program:
•Press the OCTAVE + button. In the Venom LCD, the first character of the program name starts flashing.
•Use the Value knob to change the character.
•Press OCTAVE + button to move to the next character to the right for editing.
•Use the OCTAVE – button to move back to the next character to the left for editing.
6Press the Store button to save the Multi Part Single Program settings to the selected Bank and preset location.
To store additional Multi Parts, ensure your keyboard is still in Multi mode, and repeat steps 2 through 
6 until the “Edited” flag goes away.
To save the current settings of a Multi Part Pattern (can only be edited via MIDI or software):
1Ensure that your keyboard is in Multi mode.
2Press the Store button.
3If desired, select a new storage location for the Multi Part Pattern.
4If desired, rename the Multi Part Pattern.
5Press the Store button to save the Multi Part Pattern settings to the selected Bank and preset location.
To save the current settings for multiple selected Multi Part Patterns (can only be edited via MIDI or software):
1Ensure that your keyboard is in Multi mode.
2Press the Store button. The Store and Pattern buttons, along with the buttons for the parts you are editing will flash. If you have also edited Multi parts the Pattern button will also flash. The LCD screen will ask “StoreWhat?” prompting you to select what you want to store. For example a Multi, Multi Part or Pattern.
3Press the Pattern button. The buttons for Multi Parts with edited patterns start flashing. The LCD screen will ask “WhichPatt?” prompting you to select a pattern by pressing a flashing Multi Part button.
4Press the Multi Part button for the Multi Part Pattern you want to save. Only the selected Multi Part button LED will be flashing.
5If desired, select a new storage location for the Multi Part Pattern.
6If desired, rename the Multi Part Pattern.
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7 Press the Store button to save the Multi Part Pattern settings to the selected Bank and preset location.
To store additional Multi Part Patterns, ensure your keyboard is still in Multi mode, and repeat steps 2 
through 7 until the “Edited” flag goes away.
To save the only the current settings of a Multi after editing Multi Parts:
1Press the Store button. The Store button LED and the Multi Part button LEDs of any edited Multi Parts start flashing. The LCD screen will ask “StoreWhat?” prompting you to select a Multi Part by pressing one of the Multi Part buttons.
2Press the Multi button. Only the Multi button will be flashing.
3If desired, select a new storage location for the Multi Program:
•Press the Bank button to select the Bank where you want to save the current settings for the Multi Program.
•Adjust the Value knob to select the preset location where you want to save the current settings for the Multi Program.
4If desired, rename the Multi Program:
•Press the OCTAVE + button. In the Venom LCD, the first character of the program name starts flashing.
•Use the Value knob to change the character.
•Press OCTAVE + button to move to the next character to the right for editing.
•Use the OCTAVE – button to move back to the next character to the left for editing.
5Press the Store button to save the Multi Program settings to the selected Bank and preset location without saving any changes to the Multi Parts.
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Chapter 3: Using Venom Standalone |
Using the Arpeggiator
The Venom arpeggiator provides 3 modes: Standard, Phrase, and Drum. While these modes can only be edited via MIDI or software, you can select from the available factory patterns that use all of the various arpeggiator modes. For information on importing your own patterns, see “Pattern Import” on page 31.
Standard Mode
In Standard mode, you can play and hold a single note or a chord and the notes of the chord will be arpeggiated up, down, up and down, down and up, or played as a repeated chord. The rate at which Venom plays each note (or repeats the chord) is determined by the Tempo setting. The rhythm of the arpeggiated notes are determined by the timing of the notes in the selected pattern (the stored MIDI sequence).
Phrase Mode
In Phrase mode, you can play and hold a single note and Venom plays back the selected phrase pattern (a stored MIDI sequence). The phrase pattern is transposed according to the note you play.
Drum Mode
In Drum mode, you can play and hold a single note and Venom plays back the selected drum pattern (a stored MIDI sequence) from the first 51 patterns (0 through 50). The played note does not transpose the drum pattern.
Selecting a Pattern
To play Venom with the arpeggiator using a Single Program:
1Ensure that the Single button is lit.
2Press the Arp On/Off button so that its LED is lit.
3Tap in the tempo you want with the Tap Tempo button. (You can also press and hold the Tap Tempo button and use the Value knob to set the tempo.)
4Press the Pattern button so that it is lit.
5Press the Bank button to select the Pattern Bank you want.
6Use the Value knob to select the Pattern you want.
To play Venom with the arpeggiator using a Multi Program:
1Ensure that the Multi button is lit.
2Select one or more Multi Parts to be arpeggiated.
3Press the Arp On/Off button so that its LED is lit.
4Tap in the tempo you want with the Tap Tempo button. (You can also press and hold the Tap Tempo button and use the Value knob to set the tempo.)
5Press the Pattern button so that it is lit.
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6Press the Bank button to select the Pattern Bank you want.
7Use the Value knob to select the Pattern you want.
8If a Standard pattern is selected, play a single note or chord. If a Phrase or Drum pattern is selected, play a single note.
Enabling the Arpeggiator
Every Single Program and Multi Patch is stored with an associated Arpeggiator Pattern, simply enable the Arpeggiator and play.
To enable the Arpeggiator:
1Select a Single or Multi Program.
2Press the Arp On/Off button so that its LED is lit.
3Tap in the tempo you want with the Tap Tempo button. (You can also press and hold the Tap Tempo button and use the Value knob to set the tempo.)
4If the selected Program uses a Standard pattern, play a single note or chord. If the selected Program uses a Phrase or Drum pattern, play a single note.
Using Global Mode
Global mode lets you set Local control, the MIDI output, and the MIDI output channel. Additional Global settings can be configured with the Vyzex Venom Editor (see “Global Editor” on page 77).
Toggling Local Control On and Off
Local control determines whether or not the built-in keyboard controls the onboard synthesizer or simply passes MIDI control data through the MIDI Out port or over USB (depending on the MIDI Output setting) without playing the Venom synthesizer. If you are working with MIDI sequencing software (such as
Pro Tools), you may want to disable Local control so that you can route MIDI through your MIDI software to the Venom synthesizer without double-triggering MIDI notes on the Venom synthesizer.
To toggle Local Control On or Off:
1Press the Edit Button on the top panel of Venom.
2Press the B-flat below middle C on the keyboard (indicated as “Local” by the Global Key Mapping above the keyboard).
The LCD flashes “LOCAL OFF” or “LOCAL ON” to indicate the setting.
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Selecting MIDI Output
In Single mode, Venom sends and receives MIDI data using the Global MIDI Channel. In Multi Mode, any Multi Part set to “Global” will also use the Global MIDI Channel for transmission.
To select the global MIDI Output:
1Press the Edit Button on the top panel of Venom.
2Press the A-flat below middle C on the keyboard (indicated as “MIDI Out” by the Global Key Mapping above the keyboard).
The LCD indicates either “MIDI OUT USB” or “MIDI OUT KEY” to indicate the setting.
Selecting MIDI Channel Output
Venom sends MIDI data over one of sixteen possible MIDI channels.
To set the global MIDI Output channel:
1Press the Edit Button on the top panel of Venom.
2Press the corresponding key on the keyboard as indicated by the Global Key Mappings “Ch 1” through “Ch 16”.
The LCD indicates the corresponding MIDI channel number in the upper-right corner of the display.
Resetting Venom Defaults
Venom lets you do a soft reset or a hard reset.
Soft Reset
A soft reset restores all Global parameters to their default settings. A soft reset will not delete your custom stored Single, Multi, and Pattern presets.
To perform a soft reset:
Press and hold both OCTAVE buttons simultaneously while powering Venom on.
Hard Reset
A hard reset restores all Global parameters and User Banks (presets) to the factory default settings. Note that you will lose any custom stored Single, Multi, and Pattern presets when performing a hard reset.
A hard reset does not restore Pattern bank B. This bank is restored using the Vyzex Venom Editor/Librarian. For further information, refer to Chapter 5, “Advanced Synthesizer and Effects Editing.”
To perform a hard reset:
Press and hold the Multi and Single buttons simultaneously while powering Venom on.
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Demo Mode
Venom provides a factory demo. Press both the Pattern and Multi buttons at the same time to hear what Venom can do. During the demo, the LCD screen flashes “** DEMO **”. The Venom keyboard, and Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels are disabled during the demo.
Press any button to stop the demo and return to the previous mode.
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Chapter 4: Using Venom with USB
Making Connections
In addition to using Venom as a standalone synthesizer, you can use Venom with your computer via USB:
•Connect the Audio Outputs to powered monitors, mixer, or amplifier. You can also monitor Venom using headphones connected to the jack on the front panel.
•Connect Venom to your computer using the included USB cable.
•Connect the power supply and power on Venom.
Venom functions as a class-compliant device, and will be recognized by your computer without installing drivers. However, downloading and installing the latest drivers (from www.m-audio.com) is recommended if you are going to use Venom with Pro Tools M-Powered. The drivers are also recommended when using your keyboard with more than one application at the same time, or simultaneously using other class-compliant USB audio devices.
Figure 7. Connecting Venom to your computer
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Chapter 4: Using Venom with USB |
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