Zoom MRS-8 User Manual

0 (0)

Operation Manual

© ZOOM Corporation

Reproduction of this manual, in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited.

USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

In this manual, symbols are used to highlight warnings and cautions for you to read so that accidents can be prevented. The meanings of these symbols are as follows:

This symbol indicates explanations about

extremely dangerous matters. If users Warning ignore this symbol and handle the device

the wrong way, serious injury or death could result.

This symbol indicates explanations about

dangerous matters. If users ignore this Caution symbol and handle the device the wrong

way, bodily injury and damage to the equipment could result.

Please observe the following safety tips and precautions to ensure hazard-free use of the MRS-8.

• Power requirements

Since power consumption of this unit is fairly high,

Warning we recommend the use of an AC adapter whenever possible. When powering the unit from batteries, use only alkaline types.

[AC adapter operation]

Be sure to use only an AC adapter which supplies 9 V DC, 300 mA and is equipped with a "center minus" plug (Zoom AD-0006). The use of an adapter other than the specified type may damage the unit and pose a safety hazard.

Connect the AC adapter only to an AC outlet that supplies the rated voltage required by the adapter.

When disconnecting the AC adapter from the AC outlet, always grasp the adapter itself and do not pull at the cable.

During lightning or when not using the unit for an extended period, disconnect the AC adapter from the AC outlet.

[Battery operation]

Use four conventional IEC R6 (size AA) batteries (alkaline).

The MRS-8 cannot be used for recharging.

Pay close attention to the labelling of the battery to make sure you choose the correct type.

When not using the unit for an extended period, remove the batteries from the unit.

If battery leakage has occurred, wipe the battery compartment and the battery terminals carefully to remove all remnants of battery fluid.

While using the unit, the battery compartment cover should be closed.

Environment

To prevent the risk of fire, electric shock or

Warning malfunction, avoid using your MRS-8 in environments where it will be exposed to:

Extreme temperatures

Heat sources such as radiators or stoves

High humidity or moisture

Excessive dust or sand

Excessive vibration or shock

Handling

Never place objects filled with liquids, such as

Warning vases, on the MRS-8 since this can cause electric shock.

Do not place naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, on the MRS-8 since this can cause fire.

The MRS-8 is a precision instrument. Do not exert

Caution undue pressure on the keys and other controls. Also take care not to drop the unit, and do not subject it to shock or excessive pressure.

• Connecting cables and input and output jacks

You should always turn off the power to the MRS-8 Caution and all other equipment before connecting or

disconnecting any cables. Also make sure to disconnect all connection cables and the power cord before moving the MRS-8.

• Alterations

Never open the case of the MRS-8 or attempt to Warning modify the product in any way since this can result in

damage to the unit.

• Volume

Do not use the MRS-8 at a loud volume for a long

Caution time since this can cause hearing impairment.

2

ZOOM MRS-8

USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Usage Precautions

• Electrical interference

For safety considerations, the MRS-8 has been designed to provide maximum protection against the emission of electromagnetic radiation from inside the device, and protection from external interference. However, equipment that is very susceptible to interference or that emits powerful electromagnetic waves should not be placed near the MRS- 8, as the possibility of interference cannot be ruled out entirely.

With any type of digital control device, the MRS-8 included, electromagnetic interference can cause malfunctioning and can corrupt or destroy data. Care should be taken to minimize the risk of damage.

• Cleaning

Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the MRS-8. If necessary, slightly moisten the cloth. Do not use abrasive cleanser, wax, or solvents (such as paint thinner or cleaning alcohol), since these may dull the finish or damage the surface.

• Backup

The data of MRS-8 can be lost because of malfunction or incorrect operation. Backup your data.

• Copyrights

Except for personal use, unauthorized recording from copyrighted sources(CDs, records, tapes, video clips, broadcast material and so on) is prohibited.

ZOOM Corporation does not bear any liability for injunctions regarding the copyright law infringement.

Please keep this manual in a convenient place for

future reference.

*MIDI is a registered trademark of Association of Musical Electronics Industry(AMEI).

*SD Logo is a trademark.

*All trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned in this manual are for identification purposes only and are not intended to infringe on the copyrighted properties of their respective owners.

ZOOM MRS-8

3

Contents

USAGE AND SAFETY

PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Introducing the MRS-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Rhythm section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Mixer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Names of Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Front panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Rear panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Inserting SD Card and Batteries. . . . . . 13

Inserting an SD card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Inserting the batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Power On/Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Power-on. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Power-off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Let’s Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Quick Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Step 1: Preparations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

1.1 Creating a new project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 1.2 Selecting the rhythm pattern to use. . . . . 18

Step 2: Recording the first track . . . . . . . . . . 20

2.1 Adjusting input sensitivity. . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 2.2 Applying the insert effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 2.3 Selecting a track and recording . . . . . . . . 23

Step 3: Overdubbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

3.1Making settings for input sensitivity and

insert effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 3.2 Selecting a track and recording . . . . . . . . 25

Step 4: Mixing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

4.1 Adjusting volume, panning, and EQ. . . . . . 26 4.2 Applying the send/return effect . . . . . . . . . 27 4.3 Applying the insert effect to a track. . . . . . 28

Step 5: Mixdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

5.1 Using the mastering effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 5.2 Mixdown onto the master track . . . . . . . . . 30

Reference [Recorder] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

V-takes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Switching V-takes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Changing the V-take name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Moving to a desired point in the song

(locate function) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Setting marks in a song (marker function)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Setting a mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Locating a mark. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Deleting a mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Playing back the same passage repeatedly (A-B repeat function). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Re-recording only a specified region (punch-in/out function) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Manual punch-in/out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Auto punch-in/out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Recording several tracks on a master track (mixdown function) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

About the master track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Master track mixdown steps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Playing the master track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Combining multiple tracks on one or two tracks (bounce function) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Making bounce settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Executing bounce recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Recording drum/bass sound on audio tracks (rhythm recording) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Selecting the recording source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Rhythm recording procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Making settings for pre-count operation . . . 43

4

ZOOM MRS-8

Contents

Reference [Track Editing] . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Editing a range of data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Basic steps for range editing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Copying a specified range of data. . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Moving a specified range of data . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Erasing a specified range of data . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Trimming a specified range of data. . . . . . . . . . . 47 Fade-in/fade-out of specified data range . . . . . . 48 Reversing a specified range of audio data . . . . . 49

Editing using V-takes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Basic steps for V-take editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Erasing a V-take . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Copying a V-take . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Moving a V-take. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Exchanging V-takes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Importing a V-take from another project . . . . . . . 52

Track capture and swap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Capturing a track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Swapping track data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Reference [Mixer] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

About the mixer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Assigning input signals to recording

tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Adjusting the signal for each track

(track parameters) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Linking two tracks (stereo link) . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Reference [Rhythm] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

About the rhythm section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Drum kits and bass programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Rhythm patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Rhythm pattern mode and rhythm song

mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Playing rhythm patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Selecting a rhythm pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Changing the tempo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Changing the drum kit / bass program . . . . . . . . 64 Using the pads to play drum/bass sounds . . . . . 64

Creating a rhythm pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Preparations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Drum sequence real-time input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Bass sequence real-time input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Drum sequence step input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Bass sequence step input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Entering rhythm pattern chord information . . . . . 73 Changing the drum/bass sequence volume

level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Assigning a name to a rhythm pattern. . . . . . . . . 75

Editing rhythm patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Copying a rhythm pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Erasing a rhythm pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Creating a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Selecting a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Entering pattern information using step input. . . . 77 Using FAST for pattern information input . . . . . . . 79 Entering chord information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Entering other information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Playing a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Editing a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Copying a specified range of measures . . . . . . . 85 Transposing the entire rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . 85 Copying a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Erasing the rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Assigning a name to a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . 87

Importing rhythm patterns and rhythm songs from another project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Editing various settings of the rhythm

section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Basic procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Changing the length of the pre-count . . . . . . . . . 89 Changing the metronome volume. . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Adjusting the sensitivity of the pads . . . . . . . . . . 90 Checking the remaining amount of memory . . . . 90 Swapping the left/right pan position . . . . . . . . . . 90

Reference [Effects] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

About the effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Using the insert effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

About insert effect patches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Changing the insert location of the insert

effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Selecting the patch for the insert effect . . . . . . . 93 Editing an insert effect patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Storing or swapping insert effect patches . . . . . 98 Assigning a name to an insert effect patch. . . . . 98 Applying the insert effect only to the monitor

signal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Using the send/return effect . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

About the send/return effect patches . . . . . . . . . 100 Selecting a send/return effect patch . . . . . . . . . . 100 Editing a send/return effect patch. . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Storing or swapping send/return effect

patches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Assigning a name to a send/return effect

patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Importing patches from another project. . . . 102

ZOOM MRS-8

5

Contents

Reference [Projects]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

About projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Working with projects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Basic procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Loading a project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Creating a new project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Copying a project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Erasing a project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Changing the project name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Protecting a project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Reference [MIDI]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

About MIDI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 What you can do using MIDI . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Making MIDI-related settings . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Basic procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Setting the drum kit/bass program MIDI

channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Turning Timing Clock messages on or off. . . . . 109 Turning Song Position Pointer messages on or

off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Turning Start/Stop/Continue messages on or

off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Turning MIDI Time Code (MTC) messages on or

off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Reference [Other Functions] . . . . . . . 111

Playing several projects continuously (sequence play) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Creating a playlist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Playing a playlist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Using the tuner function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Using the chromatic tuner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Using other tuning types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Switching the level meter display type . . . . 116 Adjusting the display contrast and

backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Changing the SD card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Formatting an SD card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Checking the available SD card capacity/

project size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Problems during playback. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Problems during recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Problems with effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Problems with the rhythm section . . . . . . . 121 Problems with MIDI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Other problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Effect Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Insert Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Send/return Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Effect Patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Insert Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Send/return Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Rhythm Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 Drum Kits/Bass Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 Instrument/MIDI note number chart . . . . . . 142 Files on SD card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 MIDI implementation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 MIDI implementation chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

6

ZOOM MRS-8

Introduction

Thank you for selecting the ZOOM MRS-8 MultiTrak Recording Studio (simply called the “MRS-8” in this manual). The MRS-8 is a fascinating product with the following features.

Four major functions in a compact unit

The MRS-8 combines an 8-track SD card recorder, effect device, digital mixer, and drum/bass machine in a single unit of amazingly compact dimensions. Everything you need to create music is right there. Use it to pre-produce a song at home or take it into the studio for some serious recording work. The MRS-8 is a great tool that will go anywhere.

Versatile input configuration handles a wide variety of sources

In addition to the standard phone type jack, the MRS-8 features a combo type connector that can handle XLR plug leads (balanced) as well as phone plug leads (balanced and unbalanced). Guitar, bass, synthesizer and various other sources as well as microphones and direct boxes can be connected easily. A high-performance microphone is also built in, which is great for recording acoustic guitar or vocals.

Recorder with 8 tracks x 10 virtual takes

The recorder section provides four mono tracks and two stereo tracks, resulting in a total of eight tracks. Each track has ten virtual tracks (V-takes). A bounce function lets you play all tracks and record the result on an empty V-take.

Dedicated master track for mixdown

The master track is separate from the regular recording tracks and is optimized for mixdown with a minimum of fuss. A sequence play function lets you play the master tracks of multiple songs in succession, which is convenient for moving mixed-down songs onto an external recorder in one go.

Full-function mixer

The built-in digital mixer handles the audio tracks and drum/bass sounds and allows adjusting parameters such as level, panning, EQ, and effect intensity. The result is a full-fledged stereo mix to which the input signal can also be added.

Two versatile effects

The MRS-8 provides an insert effect for processing the input signal and/or any track, and a send/return effect that is used via the mixer send/return loop. The insert effect can be used as mastering effect for the stereo mix, for adjusting the sound pressure and tonal quality during mixdown.

Rhythm section can be used to provide guide rhythm or accompaniment

Realistic PCM sources produce drum and bass sounds that can be played in more than 500 rhythm patterns. By programming a combination of patterns and setting a chord progression, you can build the rhythm accompaniment to an entire song.

Compatible with system-wide synchronization

The MIDI OUT connector can supply synchronization messages such as MIDI time code information and MIDI clock information. In combination with a computer, MIDI sequencer or similar device, this lets you create a system with professional-level synchronization.

Built-in tuner with support for various tuning methods

Besides the standard chromatic type, the tuner function of the MRS-8 also caters for 7-string guitar, 5-string bass, and other special tuning needs.

In order to take full advantage of the MRS-8’s versatile functions and to ensure trouble-free enjoyment, please read this manual carefully. Keep this manual in a safe place together with the warranty card.

ZOOM MRS-8

7

Introducing the MRS-8

The MRS-8 is internally divided into the following four sections.

Recorder

Records and plays back audio signals.

Recorder

Rhythm section

Uses the internal drum/bass sound source to play rhythms.

Mixer

Mixes the signals from the recorder and the drum/bass sound source into a stereo signal, for output via the output jacks and for mixdown on dedicated master tracks.

Effects

Process input signals, recorder playback signals, or drum/ bass sound source signals in various ways, to achieve various sound characteristics.

The following diagram shows the relationship and signal flow between each section.

Recorder

The recorder section of the MRS-8 has eight audio tracks. (A “track” is a separate section for recording audio data.) There are four mono tracks (track 1 – 4) and two stereo tracks (tracks 5/6 and 7/8). Up to 2 tracks can be recorded simultaneously and up to 8 tracks can be played back simultaneously.

Each of the tracks has ten switchable virtual tracks (called “V-takes”). For each track, one V-take can be selected for recording/playback.

INPUT 1

 

Track 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

MASTER OUTPUT

or

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Track 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

Built-in

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insert

Track 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

mic

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Track 4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

effect

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tracks 5/6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INPUT 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tracks 7/8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

From immediately

 

To immediately

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Master Track

before

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

after [MASTER] fader

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[MASTER] fader

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rhythm section

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

master

 

 

Drum sound source

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

track

 

 

Bass sound source

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DRUM BASS

1

2

3

4

5/6

7/8

MASTER

Send/return effect

Mixer

From master track

8

ZOOM MRS-8

Introducing the MRS-8

Currently selected V-take on tracks 1 – 8 and master track

V-take

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

1 2 3 4 5/6 7/8 Master track

Tracks

The recorder section also provides a set of stereo tracks which are separate from the normal audio tracks. This is called the master track. The master track is reserved for use in mixdown.

Rhythm section

The MRS-8 contains a rhythm section that operates in sync with the recorder. It offers 511 accompaniment patterns (called “rhythm patterns”) that use the internal d r u m / b a s s s o u n d g e n e r a t o r. Yo u c a n u s e t h e preprogrammed patterns, modify them in part, or create entirely new patterns from scratch.

Recorder

Track 1

Track 2

Track 3

Rhythm section

Rhythm

Rhythm

Rhythm

Drum sound

To mixer

 

 

pattern

pattern

pattern

Bass sound

To mixer

HINT

The drum/bass sound sources can be also played with the

pads on the top panel.

You can arrange rhythm patterns in the desired order of playback, and program chords and tempo to create the rhythm accompaniment for an entire song. (This is called a “rhythm song”.) Up to 10 rhythm songs can be created, among which one is selected for editing/playback.

Mixer

The playback signals from the audio tracks and the drum/ bass sounds are sent to the built-in digital mixer to create a stereo mix. For each track/sound, parameters such as volume, panning, and 2-band EQ (Hi and Lo) can be controlled independently.

The resulting stereo mix is sent to the output jacks and can be sent to an empty V-take of the master track or any other tracks, for mixdown and bounce operation.

Effects

The MRS-8 provides two types of effects: insert effect and send/return effect. These effects have the characteristics described below.

Insert effect

This effect can be inserted at one of the following three points in the signal path.

(1)Immediately after the input

(2)In the output of any audio track or drum track/bass sound

(3)Immediately before the [MASTER] fader

In the default condition, position (1) (immediately after input) is selected. When the setting is changed to (2), only a selected track or drum/bass sound is processed by the effect. When the setting is changed to (3), the final stereo mix can be processed.

Send/return effect

This effect is internally connected to the send/return loop of the mixer section. The effect includes reverb, chorus and other processing types.

The level of the signal supplied to the send/return effect (send level) for each track/sound adjusts the depth of the effect. Raising the send level will produce a deeper effect for that track or sound.

ZOOM MRS-8

9

Zoom MRS-8 User Manual

Names of Parts

Front panel

Input section

Display section

 

Control section

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect section

Rhythm

section

Built-in mic Fader section Transport section

Input section

Rhythm section

[INPUT] controls 1/2

[SONG/PATTERN] key

 

[DRUM/BASS] key

[PEAK] indicators

 

 

[TEMPO] key

[MIC] key

Pads 1 – 9

INPUT [ON/OFF] keys 1/2

Effect section

[INSERT EFFECT] key [INPUT SRC] key

[SEND/RETURN] key

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Names of Parts

Display section

Control section

 

[SD CARD ACCESS] indicator

MARKER [U] / [I] keys

 

Display

[AUTO PUNCH I/O] key

 

 

[BOUNCE] key

 

 

[A-B REPEAT] key

 

 

[MARK/CLEAR] key

[SYSTEM/UTILITY] key [TRACK PARAMETER] key

 

[FUNCTION] key

 

[EXIT] key

[NEW PROJECT] key

[EDIT] key

 

 

Fader section

 

Dial

 

 

Status keys

Cursor keys

 

([RHYTHM], 1 – 4, 5/6, 7/8, [MASTER])

 

 

[ENTER] key

 

Transport section

REW [T] key

ZERO [U] key FF [Y] key

 

 

STOP [P] key

REC [O] key

Faders ([RHYTHM], 1 – 4, 5/6, 7/8, [MASTER])

 

 

PLAY [R] key

Rear panel

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MASTER

INPUT 1/2

 

 

 

 

 

 

MIDI OUT

OUTPUT jacks

connectors

DC 9V jack connector

 

 

 

 

PHONES jack

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[POWER ON/OFF] Card slot

[PHONES]

[INPUT 1 SELECT]

switch

volume control

switch

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11

Connections

MIDI sequencer (computer etc.)

MIDI interface

MIDI IN

Rear panel

The INPUT 1 connector accepts a standard phone plug cable (unbalanced). The INPUT 2 connector accepts an XLR plug cable (balanced) or a phone plug cable (balanced or unbalanced).

When a passive electric guitar/bass or other instrument with high output impedance is connected to INPUT 1, set the [INPUT 1 SELECT] switch to GUITAR/BASS.

When an active electric guitar/bass, a dynamic microphone, synthesizer or other device with low output impedance is connected to INPUT 1, set the [INPUT 1 SELECT] switch to MIC/LINE.

Dynamic or condenser microphone

Guitar

Bass

 

To power the MRS-8 from

 

an AC outlet, be sure to use

 

only the ZOOM AD-0006

 

(available separately). Using

 

another

AC adapter

can

AC adapter

lead to

malfunction

and

damage.

 

 

 

 

 

Loop the cable of the AC adapter around the hook as shown in the diagram before connecting it to the [DC 12V] jack. This will prevent the plug from being pulled out if the AC adaptor cable is accidentally pulled.

R L

Synthesizer or sampler etc.

When connecting stereo output devices such as a synthesizer or CD player, connect the L output of the external device to INPUT 1 and the R output to INPUT 2.

To monitor the sound with headphones, connect a pair of headphones to the PHONES jack. The listening volume can

Headphones be adjusted with the PHONES control.

To prevent damage to the speakers of your monitor system, turn off the power of the system connected to the output jacks (or turn the volume all the way down) before you make connections.

Monitor system (audio components or amplified speakers etc.)

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ZOOM MRS-8

Inserting SD Card and Batteries

Inserting an SD card

For operating the MRS-8, an SD card or a miniSD card with adapter (capacity 16 MB or more) must be inserted as storage media. Before inserting a card, verify that the write protect feature is turned off. Make sure that power to the MRS-8 is turned off, and then insert the card as shown below.

SD card

When inserting the card, push it all the way into the slot. To remove the card, turn power off and then pull the card out.

To remove or insert a card with the power turned on, be sure to follow the procedure described on page 117. Otherwise data may be permanently destroyed.

NOTE

If the card is inserted with wrong orientation, it will not go all the way in. Never try to force the card, as this may damage it.

Inserting the batteries

The MRS-8 can be powered from batteries. Purchase the correct batteries and insert them as described below.

1. Turn the unit over and open the battery compartment cover.

IEC R6 (size AA) battery x 4

MRS-8 bottom view

Battery compartment

2. Insert four IEC R6 (size AA) batteries into the compartment. (Use alkaline batteries.)

3. Close the battery compartment cover.

NOTE

If you are operating the unit on battery power and the indication [ ] appears in the bottom right of the display, the batteries are almost exhausted. Replace all four batteries with fresh ones as soon as possible.

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13

Power On/Off

To turn the MRS-8 on and off, follow the steps described below.

Power-on

1. Make sure that the MRS-8 and peripheral equipment is turned off.

Turn down the volume controls of connected equipment, the MRS-8, and the monitor system.

2. Insert an SD card into the card slot.

3. Set the [POWER ON/OFF] switch of the MRS-8 to ON.

complete, the main screen appears.

HINT

You can also format an SD card after the MRS-8 has started up, as described on page 118.

Changing the SD card while the MRS-8 is operating is possible by following the procedure described on page 117.

4. Turn on the connected instrument and the monitor system in that order.

Data loading for the inserted SD card starts. During this interval, the [SD CARD ACCESS] indicator lights up.

After a while, the following screen appears.

PRJ 000

MRS-8 SD

0 0 0 1- 1- 0

This is called the main screen. From this screen, you can access various recording and playback functions.

HINT

To return to the main screen from other screens, press the

[EXIT] key repeatedly.

If an SD card that is not ready for use in the MRS-8 is inserted, the indication “FORMAT?” appears when you turn the MRS-8 on. If you press the [ENTER] key at this point, the SD card will be formatted. When formatting is

Power-off

1. Turn down the volume at the monitor system.

2. Turn off the monitor system and the connected instrument in that order.

3. Set the [POWER ON/OFF] switch of the MRS-8 to OFF.

The indication “GoodBye See You!” appears on the display and the unit is turned off. Any settings and other information are stored automatically on the SD card.

Never turn power on or off by connecting or disconnecting the AC adapter. Otherwise data may be destroyed.

In particular, if you disconnect the AC adapter while the [SD CARD ACCESS] indicator is lit, all data may be permanently destroyed.

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ZOOM MRS-8

Let’s Record

This section demonstrates the basics of recording and playback with the MRS-8. As an example, we explain how to record an electric guitar connected to the INPUT 1 connector.

1. Connect the guitar to the INPUT 1 connector and set the [INPUT 1 SELECT] switch to GUITAR/BASS (for a passive guitar) or MIC/LINE (for an active guitar).

2. Press the [NEW PROJECT] key in the display section. Verify that the indication “PRJNOxxx (where xxx is the project number) is shown on the first line of the display. Then press the [ENTER] key.

A new project is created, and the unit goes into recording standby mode. If necessary, you can edit the project name in this condition (p. 105).

3. Verify that the [MIC] key is flashing or out. Then press the INPUT [ON/OFF] key 1 so that the key is lit.

In this condition, the INPUT 1 connector is active.

Flickers occasionally

5. Press the [TRACK PARAMETER] key in the display section, and use the cursor left/ right keys to bring up the indication “INPUT” on the first line of the display.

NOTE

If “INPUT” is not shown on the first line of the display, check

whether the INPUT [ON/OFF] key is lit.

6. Use the cursor up/down keys to bring up the following indication on the display.

From this screen, you can adjust the input signal recording level (the signal level sent to the track).

HINT

If the [MIC] key is lit, the built-in microphone is active instead of the INPUT 1 connector. In such a case, press the [MIC] key once to switch the key to flashing status.

4. While playing your guitar, use the [INPUT] control 1 to adjust the input sensitivity.

Make the adjustment so that the [PEAK] indicator flickers slightly when you play your instrument at its loudest volume.

INPUT

 

REC LVL

100

Recording level setting

7. Turn the dial to adjust the recording level.

The current signal level can be checked using the meter

ZOOM MRS-8

15

Let’s Record

in the lower part of the display. Adjust the recording level so that the 0 (dB) segment for IN 1 flashes slightly when the guitar is at maximum volume.

0 (dB) segment

your instrument along with the rhythm pattern.

Lit in green

Lit in red

Input 1 recording level

8. Press the [EXIT] key repeatedly to return to the main screen.

9. Press status key 1 repeatedly until the key is lit in red.

When a status key is lit in red, the respective audio track (track 1 in this example) is selected as recording destination.

Lit in red

10. Operate fader 1 and the [MASTER] fader to adjust the input signal monitor level.

Faders 1 – 4, 5/6, and 7/8 adjust the volume for the respective track. When the input signal is sent to a track, the monitor level can be adjusted. The [MASTER] fader can be used to adjust the final output level.

11. To start recording, press the PLAY [R] key while holding down the REC [O] key.

A four-beat pre-count is heard, and recording starts. In the default condition of a project, an 8-beat rhythm pattern is played during recording and playback. Play

HINT

If you do not want a rhythm pattern, select an empty rhythm pattern (→ p. 18) or mute the drum/bass sound (→ p. 19).

In the default condition of a project, the insert effect processes the input signal. You can bypass the effect (→ p. 22) or select another effect patch (→ p. 21).

12. When recording is complete, press the STOP [P] key.

The REC [O] key and PLAY [R] key go out, and recording stops.

13. To check the recorded contents, press the ZERO [U] key and then press the PLAY [R] key.

By operating the [MASTER] fader you can adjust the volume of the entire song (stereo mix signal level).

14. To cancel the recording condition, press the status key 1 so that the key is lit in green.

Lit in green

16

ZOOM MRS-8

Quick Tour

Now let’s use your MRS-8 to do some actual recording. This Quick Tour describes the five steps that cover the entire process from preparation until the completion of a song.

• Step 1: Preparations

Shows how to create a new project, select a guide rhythm, and perform other steps necessary for recording.

• Step 2: Recording the first track

Shows how to record the first track while using the insert effect on the input signal.

• Step 3: Overdubbing

Shows how to record further tracks while listening to a track already recorded (overdubbing).

• Step 4: Mixing

Shows how to adjust the level, panning, and EQ of each track, apply the send/return effect, and mix the recorded material to a pair of stereo tracks.

• Step 5: Mixdown

Finally the completed stereo mix is recorded on the master track to create the finished song.

Step 1: Preparations

1.1 Creating a new project

On the MRS-8, song data are managed in units called “projects”. A project comprises recorded audio data as well as various rhythm and effect settings. By loading a project, the same condition as when the song was last saved can be recreated.

To start recording with the MRS-8, you must first create a project.

1. Connect the instrument to record and the monitor system to the MRS-8 (p. 12).

2. Insert the SD card to use for recording (p. 13).

3. Turn power on in the order MRS-8 monitor system.

When the MRS-8 starts up, the last handled project is automatically loaded.

4. Press the [NEW PROJECT] key in the display section.

When you press the [NEW PROJECT] key from the main screen, the display changes as follows.

PRJNo001

PRJ001

Cursor keys that be used

In this condition, a new project can be created.

The top right of the display shows the cursor keys that can be used on this screen.

ZOOM MRS-8

17

Quick Tour

HINT

When creating a new project, the lowest free project number is automatically selected.

It is also possible to create a new project from the project menu (→ p. 105).

5. Press the [ENTER] key.

A new project is created, and the main screen for audio track recording/playback appears.

PRJ 001

PRJ001

HINT

When selecting a different project or creating a new project, the project you were working on up to that point is automatically saved.

When performing the power-off procedure for the MRS-8

(→ p. 14), the last project is automatically saved.

When creating a new project, you can edit the project name (→ p. 105).

NOTE

While the MRS-8 is operating, do not remove the SD card. Otherwise data may be destroyed and malfunction may occur. If you want to remove the SD card while the MRS-8 is on, be sure to follow the correct procedure (→ p. 117).

1.2Selecting the rhythm pattern to use

The MRS-8 has a built-in rhythm function that operates in sync with the recorder. This lets you use drum sounds (drum kits) and bass sounds (bass programs) to create repeated rhythm patterns of several measures. By combining various patterns, you can create the rhythm accompaniment for an entire song (rhythm song).

This section explains how to select a rhythm pattern for use as guide rhythm during recording.

1. From the main screen, press the [SONG/ PATTERN] key repeatedly, until the key goes out.

The rhythm pattern selection screen appears.

Rhythm pattern number

001#117 MTNs1Vb 1

Rhythm pattern name

HINT

To return to the main screen from other screens, press the [EXIT] key repeatedly. The [EXIT] key always serves to return to the previous screen.

2. Turn the dial to select a pattern to use as guide rhythm.

Up to 511 types of rhythm pattern can be used in a project. (More than 450 of these are preprogrammed.) You select a pattern by turning the dial.

When you turn the dial to select another rhythm pattern while a pattern is playing, the new pattern will start after the current pattern has finished. When you select a new pattern with the cursor up/down keys, the new pattern begins playing immediately.

In this example, we will select a simple rhythm pattern as guide rhythm for use during recording. If you select for example the rhythm pattern number 510, a 4/4-beat metronome sound is heard.

3. Set the [MASTER] fader to 0 (dB) and press the PLAY [R] key in the transport section.

0dB

The selected rhythm pattern is played in sync with the recorder operation. The [TEMPO] key flashes according to the current tempo setting.

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Quick Tour

In the default condition of a project, the sound the bass program (bass track) is muted. Therefore only the drum kit (drum track) is heard when the rhythm pattern plays.

HINT

During rhythm pattern play, the pads corresponding to the currently produced sound of the drum kit (or pitch of the bass program) are flashing. You can also tap the pads to play the drum sounds/bass notes.

• When drum track is selected

Lit

4. To change the tempo, press the [TEMPO] key in the rhythm section and then turn the dial to change the tempo value shown on the display.

TEMPO

BPM= 1200

Tempo value

The tempo value can be set in 0.1 BPM steps. When the setting is complete, press the [EXIT] key to return to the previous screen.

HINT

You can also set the tempo by hitting the [TEMPO] key

repeatedly.

5. To adjust the volume of the drum/bass track, use the [DRUM/BASS] key in the rhythm section to select the sound (drum or bass), and then operate the [RHYTHM] fader.

The [RHYTHM] fader serves for controlling either the drum track or the bass track. When the key is lit, the drum track is selected. When the key is out, the bass track is selected. The [RHYTHM] fader then controls the respective level.

• When bass track is selected

Out

The signal level of the respective channel can be checked with the level meter in the lower part of the display.

Bass track signal level

Drum track signal level

In the same way, the [DRUM/BASS] key can be used to select the sound (drum or bass), and then the [RHYTHM] status key can be used to control muting on/off for the drum track/bass track.

6. To stop playback, press the STOP [P]key in the transport section.

7. To return to the main screen, press the [EXIT] key.

ZOOM MRS-8

19

Quick Tour

Step 2: Recording the first track

In this step, we explain how to select an audio track for recording, how to record while listening to the guide rhythm of the rhythm section, and how to use the insert effect on the input signal.

2.1Adjusting input sensitivity

1.Connect an instrument to the INPUT 1/2 connector.

The MRS-8 can handle up to two input sources at a time, from INPUT 1, INPUT 2, and the built-in mic.

INPUT 1 and the built-in mic are mutually exclusive. A switch selects one of these for use as input source.

2. To use the built-in mic, press the [MIC] key in the input section so that the key is lit.

is selected as input source.

To use two input sources simultaneously, hold down one INPUT [ON/OFF] key while pressing the other one.

The INPUT [ON/OFF] keys 1/2 and [MIC] key lighting status with various input selections is shown below.

• Input source = INPUT 1 connector

Lit

Flashing

Out

 

or out

 

• Input source = INPUT 2 connector

When the unit is in a mode where the built-in mic can be used, the [MIC] key in the input section flashes. If you press the key so that it is lit, the built-in mic will be active instead of INPUT 1.

Depending on the insert effect settings, the built-in mic may not be available. In this case, the [MIC] key is out.

[MIC] key

[MIC] key

[MIC] key

[MIC] key

[MIC] key

[MIC] key

lit

flashing

out

lit

flashing

out

Built-in mic is

Built-in mic is

Built-in mic is

Built-in mic is

Built-in mic is

Built-in mic is

active

available

not available

active

available

not available

(INPUT 1 is

(INPUT 1 is

(INPUT 1 is

(INPUT 1 is

(INPUT 1 is

(INPUT 1 is

inactive)

active)

active)

inactive)

active)

active)

3. Use the INPUT [ON/OFF] keys 1/2 to select the input source.

The INPUT [ON/OFF] keys 1/2 control the INPUT 1 connector (or built-in mic) and INPUT 2 connector respectively. When a key is lit, the signal from that input

Out

Flashing

Lit

 

or out

 

• Input source = Built-in mic

Lit

Lit

Out

Input source = INPUT 1 connector + INPUT 2 connector

Lit

Flashing

Lit

 

or out

 

Input source = Built-in mic + INPUT 2 connector

Lit

Lit

Lit

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ZOOM MRS-8

Quick Tour

4. While playing your instrument, adjust the [INPUT] control for the input(s) selected in step 2, to adjust the input sensitivity.

The sensitivity of INPUT 1 and the built-in mic is adjusted with the [INPUT] 1 control. The sensitivity of INPUT 2 is adjusted with the [INPUT] 2 control.

Make adjustments so that the [PEAK] indicator in the input section flickers slightly when you play your instrument at its loudest volume.

Flickers occasionally

another setting is currently displayed, turn the dial to select “IN”.

IN SRC

IN

2. Press the [INSERT EFFECT] key in the effect section.

0 (dB) segment

Input 1 recording level

The input signal level can be checked with the level meter IN 1/IN 2 bars in the display.

2.2 Applying the insert effect

The insert effect can be applied to a point immediately after the input, to the output of any track, or immediately before the [MASTER] fader. The insert effect actually is a multi-effect unit that contains a number of single effects (effect modules) such as compressor, distortion, and delay, connected in series.

When you apply the insert effect to the input signal, you can record the processed signal on a track. The following steps show how to apply an insert effect suitable for guitar/bass.

1. Press the [INPUT SRC] key in the effect section.

The indication “IN” (input) appears on the second line of the display. In this condition, you can select the insert effect position.

In the default condition of a patch, “IN” is selected. If

The display changes as follows. From this screen, you can select the insert effect algorithm (combination of effect modules used simultaneously) and patch (effect program).

Algorithm name

CLEAN

Standard 0

Patch name

Patch number

The MRS-8 has eight algorithms with multiple patch selections for each algorithm. To use the insert effect, select the algorithm first and then call up one of the patches in that algorithm.

3. Use the cursor up/down keys to select the algorithm.

The following algorithms are available.

CLEAN

DIST

ACO/BASS SIM (shown on the display as “Ac/ BsSIM”)

BASS

These algorithms are suitable for recording guitar/bass.

• MIC

An algorithm suitable for vocals and other microphone recordings.

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21

Quick Tour

• LINE

An algorithm suitable mainly for recording line-level output instruments such as synthesizer or electric piano.

• Dual MIC

An algorithm for two entirely separate mono input and mono output channels, for use with two microphones.

MASTERING (shown on the display as “MASTRING”)

An algorithm suitable for processing the final stereo mixdown signal.

HINT

In the default condition of a project, the CLEAN algorithm is selected for the insert effect.

NOTE

When a patch of the CLEAN, DIST, ACO/BASS SIM, or BASS algorithms is selected, the built-in mic cannot be used. But when the insert effect is temporarily bypassed, when “CABINET” is selected on the PRE AMP/DRIVE module, or when the module is turned off, you can use the built-in mic.

4. Set the [MASTER] fader to 0 (dB). While playing your instrument to check the sound, use the dial to select the patch.

0 dB

300 patches can be used with the insert effect. The effect type and intensity for a patch can be adjusted as needed. The patches available with the different algorithms are listed below.

Algorithm

Patch number

CLEAN

0 – 29

 

 

DIST

0 – 49

 

 

ACO/BASS SIM

0 – 19

 

 

BASS

0 – 19

 

 

MIC

0 – 49

 

 

LINE

0 – 49

 

 

DUAL MIC

0 – 49

 

 

MASTERING

0 – 29

 

 

HINT

When “EMPTY” is shown as the patch name, the patch is empty. Selecting such a patch will have no effect.

NOTE

Depending on the selected algorithm, the input/output signal routing will change (→ p. 94).

5. To adjust the signal level recorded on a track, press the [TRACK PARAMETER] key in the control section and then press the INPUT [ON/OFF] key.

The insert effect output level may change according to the selected patch. When recording with the insert effect applied, you will have to adjust the recording level according to the selected patch.

6. Press the cursor down key repeatedly to bring up the indication “REC LVL” on the second line of the display.

The display changes as follows. The REC LVL parameter shown on this screen indicates the signal level after passing the insert effect, which will be recorded on the track.

INPUT

 

REC LVL

100

7. Turn the dial to adjust the recording level.

8. To return to the main screen, press the [EXIT] key.

HINT

To record without using the insert effect, press the [INSERT EFFECT] key in the effect section repeatedly until the key goes out. While the key is out, the insert effect is bypassed.

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Quick Tour

When the insert effect is bypassed for recording, setting the REC LVL parameter to 100 (default) results in unity gain (the recording level same as the input level).

2.3Selecting a track and recording

Now we will select a track and record the input sound (with the insert effect applied) on that track.

1. From the main screen, repeatedly press the status key of the recording track until the key is lit in red.

Lit in red

The audio track status keys are used to select the recording track and to switch muting for each track on and off. Each time you press a status key, the key will cycle through the following states.

Status key

Lit in green

Out

Lit in red

Mute off

Mute on

Selected as

 

 

recording track

When all status keys are green, the input signal will not be sent to the tracks and will go directly to the [MASTER] fader. (Panning and send/return effect depth can be adjusted in this case.)

Recording track not selected

MASTER

One Input source

Track 1

 

Track 2

 

MASTER

Two Input sources

Track 1

 

Track 2

When a status key is red, the track is in the recording standby condition and the input signal is assigned to that track.

If a mono track (1 – 4) has been selected as recording track, the signal routing will be as follows.

Mono track selected

1 MASTER

One Input source Track 1

Track 2

1 MASTER

Two Input sources

Track 1

Track 2

If a stereo track has been selected as recording track, the signal routing will change as shown below. Except for the V-take selection, the parameters for left/right stereo tracks are set to the same values. This is useful for recording from a stereo source such as a synthesizer or CD player.

Stereo track selected

7/8 MASTER

Two Input sources

Track 78

HINT

You can select up to two tracks for recording, either one stereo track or two mono tracks. To select two mono tracks, press the first status key of an odd/even-numbered pair so that it is lit in red, and then hold down that key and press the other key so that it also is lit in red.

If the input signal is mono, selecting a pair of stereo tracks as target will ensure that the left/right spread added by certain insert effect settings is preserved in recording.

2. Set the fader for the recording track and the [MASTER] fader to 0 (dB). Then adjust the volume of the monitor system while playing your instrument.

3. To begin recording, press the ZERO [U] key to return to the beginning of the song. Then hold down the REC [O] key and press the PLAY [R] key.

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Both keys light up, and a pre-count of 4 beats is heard. Then recording will begin. Record the first instrument track while listening to the guide rhythm from the rhythm section.

HINT

The number and the sound of the pre-count clicks can be changed (→ p. 43).

If the input signal is distorted, refer to steps 2.1 and 2.2 to readjust the input sensitivity and recording level.

4. When you have finished recording, press the STOP [P] key.

The REC [O] key and PLAY [R] key go out, and recording will stop. The indication “wait...” is briefly shown on the display, and then the main screen reappears.

HINT

The duration of the “wait...” period may differ. Never turn power to the unit off while “wait...” is being shown on the display. Otherwise recorded data may be lost and damage to the unit may occur.

The track will be played back together with the selected guide rhythm from the rhythm section.

HINT

You can specify a position in minutes/seconds/milliseconds or measures/beats/ticks and move directly to that point (→ p. 35).

By setting marks at the desired points, you can quickly jump to these points (→ p. 35).

6. To stop playback, press the STOP [P] key.

To redo the recording, repeat steps 3 – 5.

7. When you are satisfied with the recorded content, press the status key of the recording track until it is lit in green.

The recording standby condition of the track is canceled.

HINT

A recorded track can be copied, deleted, or edited (→ p. 44).

By switching the V-take for the track on which you have recorded, you can record again on the track without erasing the current recording.

5. To listen to the recorded content, press the ZERO [U] key to return to the beginning of the song (counter zero position), and then press the PLAY [R] key.

Basic operation of transport keys

REW [T] key

Moves the current position back in 1-second steps. Movement speed can be increased by holding down the REW [T] key and pressing the FF [Y] key.

ZERO [U] key

Returns the recorder to the start position (counter zero position).

STOP [P] key

Stops the recorder.

PLAY [R] key

Starts recorder playback from the current position.

FF [Y] key

Moves the current position forward in 1-second steps. Movement speed can be increased by holding down the FF [Y] key and pressing the REW [T] key.

REC [O] key

If you press the PLAY [R] key while holding down this key, recording starts. Pressing the key during playback causes punch-in and pressing the key during recording causes punch-out (→p. 37).

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Step 3: Overdubbing

In this step, you will learn how to record another instrument on another track, while listening to the content you recorded in step 2. Adding parts in this way is called “overdubbing”.

3.1Making settings for input sensitivity and insert effect

As in step 2, select the input source, adjust input sensitivity and recording level, and make settings for the insert effect.

1. Connect the next instrument you want to record, and adjust input sensitivity in the same way as in step 2.1.

2. Select the algorithm and patch for the insert effect in the same way as in step 2.2.

3. When the setting is complete, press the [EXIT] key to return to the main screen.

3.2Selecting a track and recording

Now you’re ready to record the second instrument on another track, while listening to the content of the first track and the guide rhythm.

1. Repeatedly press the status key of the track on which to record, until the key is lit in red.

This track is now in the recording standby condition. Verify that the status key of the recorded track and the [RHYTHM] status key are lit in green.

2. Set the [MASTER] fader to 0 (dB) and use the fader of the recording track to adjust the monitoring level.

If necessary, set the recorder to playback and operate the faders to adjust the monitor level balance between the recorded track and the track to record.

3. To begin recording, press the ZERO [U] key to return to the beginning of the song.

Then hold down the REC [O] key and press the PLAY [R] key.

After the pre-count, recording on the new track will begin. Record your instrument while listening to the guide rhythm and the recorded track.

4. When you have finished recording, press the STOP [P] key.

The indication “wait...” is briefly shown on the display, and then the main screen reappears.

5. To check the recorded content, press the ZERO [U] key once more to return to the beginning of the song, and press the PLAY [R] key.

The guide rhythm of the rhythm section and the previously recorded track will be played back along with the newly recorded track. Use the faders as necessary to adjust the level balance.

6. To stop playback, press the STOP [P] key.

HINT

To redo the recording, repeat steps 3 – 5. You can also start rerecording from partly into the track and use the punch-in/ punch-out function (→ p. 37) to redo a limited passage only.

7. When you are satisfied with the recorded content, press the status key of the recording track until it is lit in green.

The recording condition for that track is turned off. You can now record more tracks in the same way.

HINT

The maximum number of tracks that can be recorded is 8. But even when all 8 tracks have been filled, you can still use the bounce function (also called ping-pong recording) to move the contents from multiple tracks onto 1 or 2 tracks. Then you can select another V-take for the bounce source tracks and record more (→ p. 40).

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Step 4: Mixing

When you have finished recording all tracks, you can use the built-in mixer to adjust parameters such as volume level, EQ (equalizer), and panning (stereo left/right positioning) to create the stereo mix.

4.1Adjusting volume, panning, and EQ

Adjust the volume, panning, and equalization for each track by controlling the track parameters of the built-in mixer.

1. To adjust the volume balance between tracks, operate the faders in the fader section.

By operating the faders of a pair of stereo tracks, you can adjust the left/right level together.

To add the drum/bass track to the mix, operate the [RHYTHM] fader after switching the [DRUM/BASS] key between lit (drum track selected) and out (bass track selected). This will adjust the drum/bass track mixing balance.

To control the mute/on status, select the drum or bass track with the [DRUM/BASS] key and then press the [RHYTHM] status key.

The signal level for each track can be checked with the respective bars in the display.

NOTE

In some cases, the current fader position may not match the volume setting value for a track stored in a project (such as when the fader was moved for another project and then the previous project was called again). In such a case, the volume may not change until the fader setting has been changed to a certain extent.

2. If an input signal is not required, press the lit INPUT [ON/OFF] key so that the key goes out.

While the INPUT [ON/OFF] key is lit, the signal from that input will be added to the stereo mix. If the input signal is not required, the key should be turned off.

3. To adjust EQ and panning for each track, press the [TRACK PARAMETER] key in the display section.

You now can adjust various track parameters such as equalization and panning for each track.

4. Use the cursor left/right keys or the status keys to select the track for which you want to make a setting.

The status key for the currently selected track is lit in orange.

Lit in orange

TR2

 

EQ HI G

0

While a track parameter is shown, you can use the status keys and cursor left/right keys to switch tracks. The cursor left/right keys cycle through the following selections: drum track bass track audio track 1 – 8.

5. Use the cursor up/down keys to bring up the parameter that you want to adjust.

Track 1 – 8 signal level

TR2

 

 

PAN

0

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The parameters that can be selected for tracks 1 – 8 and for drum/bass track are listed in the table below.

Track parameter list

Parameter

Display

Setting range

Description

EQ HI GAIN

EQ HI G

-12 – +12dB

Adjusts high frequency EQ boost/cut.

 

 

 

 

EQ HI FREQUENCY

EQ HI F

500 – 18000(Hz)

Selects turnover frequency for high frequency EQ.

 

 

 

 

EQ LOW GAIN

EQ LO G

-12 – +12dB

Adjusts low frequency EQ boost/cut.

 

 

 

 

EQ LOW FREQUENCY

EQ LO F

40 – 1600(Hz)

Selects turnover frequency for low frequency EQ.

 

 

 

 

EFX SEND LEVEL

EFX SEND

0 – 100

Adjusts signal level sent to send/return effect.

 

 

 

 

PAN

PAN

L100 – 0 – R100

Adjusts panning (left/right positioning) for the track. For tracks 5/6,

7/8, and the drum track, this adjusts the left/right balance.

 

 

 

V-TAKE

TR x-y

x=1 – 8, y=1 – 10

Selects the V-take to use for the track (p. 32). x is the track number

(tracks 1 – 8 only)

and y is the V-take number.

 

 

 

 

 

 

FADER

FADER

0 – 127

Adjusts the fader setting.

 

 

 

 

STEREO LINK

ST LINK

ON/OFF

Links the parameters for tracks 1/2 or 3/4 (p. 60).

(tracks 1 – 4 only)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6. Turn the dial to select the setting value.

HINT

By pressing the [ENTER] key while an EQ parameter or the EFX SEND LEVEL parameter is displayed, you can switch that parameter (EQ HI, EQ LO, effect send) on and off.

7. Repeat steps 4 – 6 to adjust other parameters.

By using the cursor left/right keys or the status keys to select other tracks, you can adjust the parameters for these tracks.

8. To return to the main screen, press the [EXIT] key.

HINT

Some track parameters (EQ, panning etc.) can also be used

for the drum/bass track and input signals.

4.2Applying the send/return effect

The track signals sent to the internal mixer can be individually processed by an effect that is connected internally to the send/return loop of the mixer. (This is called the send/return effect.)

Send/return

Send

SEND LEVEL

 

 

 

 

 

 

effect

Return

DRUM BASS 1

2

7/8 MASTER

 

The intensity of the send/return effect can be adjusted for each track by using the send level parameter (which controls the signal level that is sent to the effect). Increasing this parameter will result in stronger effect action.

This section describes how to adjust the send level for each track.

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Selecting the send/return effect patch

1. From the main screen, press the [SEND/ RETURN] key in the effect section.

The display changes as follows. From this screen, you can select the send/return effect patch.

SEND

VoChorus 0

Patch name

Patch number

2. Turn the dial to select the patch.

The send/return effect has 60 patches (of which 40 are preprogrammed).

HINT

In the default condition of a project, the send level for the send/return effect is set to zero for each track. Therefore you need to raise the setting to verify the sound produced by the effect.

3. To return to the main screen, press the [EXIT] key.

Adjusting the send/return effect intensity

4. From the main screen, press the [TRACK PARAMETER] key in the display section, and then use the cursor left/right keys or the status keys to select the track for which you want to adjust the send level.

5. Use the cursor up/down keys to bring up the indication “EFX SEND” onto the second line of the display.

In this condition, you can adjust the send level for the track.

TR4

 

 

 

 

EFX

SEND

0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Send level value

6. While playing the song, turn the dial to adjust the send level value for the track.

7. Adjust the send level for other tracks in the same way.

8. To return to the main screen, press the [EXIT] key.

HINT

If no recording track is selected, you can apply the insert

effect to the input signal.

4.3Applying the insert effect to a track

You can apply the insert effect to the output of any track (audio track or drum/bass track), so that it post-processes the output signal of the track.

1. From the main screen, press the [INPUT SRC] key in the effect section.

The currently selected insert location appears on the display.

IN SRC

IN

2. Use the status keys or turn the dial to bring up the track to which you want to apply the insert effect on the second line of the display.

The status key of the selected track lights up.

IN SRC

TR1

HINT

If required, you can use the effect on two mono tracks. To do this, press the status keys for an odd-numbered and evennumbered track together, or turn the dial to select a mono track x 2 as insert target (TR 1/2, TR 3/4).

3. Press the [INSERT EFFECT] key in the effect section.

The screen for selecting the insert effect algorithm/patch appears.

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CLEAN

Standard 0

4. Use the cursor up/down keys to select the algorithm, and turn the dial to select the patch.

The currently selected algorithm/patch is shown on the display.

If required, switch the patch while playing the song to check the sound. When you finish checking it, stop the song and press the [EXIT] key to return to the main screen.

HINT

By using the bounce function (→ p. 40), you can record the processed track on an empty V-take. This lets you retain the processed sound and then apply the insert effect at another position.

Step 5: Mixdown

When the mix is ready, you can transfer it onto two tracks to create the finished song. This procedure is called “mixdown”.

For mixdown, you can either use the MASTER OUTPUT connectors and record the song on an external recorder, or you can record the song on the internal master track of the MRS-8.

The master track is a dedicated pair of stereo tracks that is separate from the normal audio tracks. When you select the master track as recording track, the signal immediately after the [MASTER] fader is recorded.

To master track

This section explains the mixdown procedure for recording on the master track.

5.1Using the mastering effect

By applying the insert effect immediately before the [MASTER] fader, you can process the stereo mix signal for mixdown. If you select a patch of the MASTERING algorithm, you can adjust the sound pressure and tonal quality of the final mix during mastering.

NOTE

While the insert effect is inserted immediately before the [MASTER] fader, you cannot use the effect for processing the input signal or for post-processing a recorded track.

1. Press the [INPUT SRC] key.

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The current insert effect position is shown on the display.

2. Turn the dial to bring up the indication “MASTER” on the second line of the display.

IN SRC

MASTER

The insert effect is now inserted immediately before the [MASTER] fader.

3. When the setting is complete, press the [EXIT] key to return to the main screen.

4. Press the [INSERT EFFECT] key and use the cursor up/down keys to bring up the indication “MASTRING” on the first line of the display.

The insert effect algorithm is switched to MASTERING. The second line of the display shows the currently selected patch.

MASTRING

PlusAlfa 0

5. While playing the song, turn the dial to select the patch.

If desired, you can edit the patch to modify the effect further (p. 95).

If the sound is distorted when you apply the mastering effect, verify that the sound of each track is not distorted and then lower the overall fader setting.

6. When you have checked the sound, stop the song and press the [EXIT] key.

The main screen returns.

5.2Mixdown onto the master track

After the mastering effect settings have been made, record the final mix on the master track.

1. From the main screen, press the ZERO [U] key to return to the beginning of the song.

2. Press the PLAY [R] key to play the song, and operate the [MASTER] fader to adjust the volume of the stereo mix.

The signal level after the [MASTER] fader can be checked by observing the rightmost bars of the level meter in the display. If the 0 dB segment lights up during play, fine-tune the signal level by turning down the [MASTER] fader.

After checking the level, press the STOP [P] key.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Left channel signal level

 

 

 

Right channel signal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

level

3. Repeatedly press the [MASTER] status key until the key lights up in red.

Lit in red

Press repeatedly

The master track is now selected for recording.

HINT

While the [MASTER] status key is lit in red, the other tracks can be operated normally. This lets you fine-tune the mixing balance also at this stage.

4. Press the ZERO [U] key to return to the beginning of the song. Then hold down the REC [O] key and press the PLAY [R] key.

Recording on the master track starts.

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