EM-1 EasyStart

Making connections

1.Connect EM-1 power supply Ä connect audio cables from L/MONO1 and RIGHT outputs to powered monitor system, or use headphones (phone jack) Ä power-up monitor system and EM-1.

2.Part 1 key of Drum Part will light on power-up Ä strike any Part key repeatedly Ä set MASTER VOLUME knob / monitor volume.

Playing the demo songs

1.Press SONG key. (Display indicates "S.01" – one of 5 demo songs) Ä press PLAY [> II] to playback demo song Ä adjust volume to suit Ä press STOP [[]] to stop playback Ä to play additional demo songs, rotate DIAL to “S02” or “S03” Ä PLAY.

Pattern mode:

128 patterns in internal memory – all user-programmable

1.Press PATTERN key Ä press CURSOR to set to "Pattern" (1st row, PATTERN column in matrix below display).

2.Rotate DIAL to select any Pattern number (A.01 – d.23) Ä press PLAY. The pattern will loop Ä press STOP to stop playback Ä rotate DIAL to select and PLAY additional patterns.

!Rotate DIAL as current pattern plays to select a new pattern - when the current pattern ends, the new pattern will begin. (When you change patterns in this way, new pattern selected will playback at same tempo as previous pattern. To playback new pattern at its original tempo, STOP pattern playback, then select and PLAY new pattern.

Working with Tempo:

1. Press PATTERN Ä select any pattern Ä press PLAY Ä press CURSOR to Tempo (LED lights) Ä rotate DIAL to set tempo Ä to use TAP tempo function: As pattern plays, strike TAP key 3x to set new tempo. Note: to set fractional tempos (120.1, etc): As pattern plays, hold down Shift and rotate DIAL Ä press CURSOR twice, to return to PATTERN.

Working with the Drum and Synth Parts:

1.Press PATTERN Ä rotate DIAL to select any pattern Ä strike any Drum part key Ätweak the knobs and switches in the PART COMMON area, to edit the part. Note that Original Value LED lights when original knob/switch settings are recalled Ä PLAY pattern, select and tweak parts.

2.Strike any Synth Part key. In addition to the PART COMMON parameters, a synth wave can be edited in the SYNTH FILTER area.

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Korg EM-1 Making connections, Playing the demo songs, Pattern mode, Patterns in internal memory all user-programmable

EM-1 specifications

The Korg EM-1, part of the Electribe series, is a digital music production tool that has gained a reputation for its creativity and versatility since its release. Launched in the early 2000s, the EM-1 combines a sequencer, sampler, and synthesizer into a compact unit, making it an excellent choice for composers, live performers, and studio musicians alike.

At the heart of the Korg EM-1 is its 16-step sequencer, which allows users to create complex rhythms and melodies with ease. The 16-step interface provides a tactile way to input notes and manipulate sequences, making it user-friendly for beginners yet deep enough for advanced users wanting to explore intricate compositions. The sequencer features 64 patterns, which can be combined in various ways to create longer arrangements.

The EM-1 boasts a robust sound engine, which includes PCM sampling and several built-in synthesis types. It comes loaded with a library of samples and sounds suitable for a variety of music genres. Users can create their own custom samples, allowing for personalized sound design, while the integrated effects such as reverb, delay, and distortion further enhance the sonic possibilities.

One standout feature of the Korg EM-1 is its real-time control. The unit is equipped with a plethora of knobs and buttons, offering intuitive access to parameters for live tweaking during performance. This tactile interface makes it easy to adjust effects, filter settings, and parameters on the fly, enhancing the performance experience.

The EM-1 also supports MIDI, enabling it to sync with other devices and integrate into larger setups easily. This makes it an excellent companion for both hardware and software synths, as well as drum machines and other instruments. The straightforward design of the EM-1 encourages experimentation, giving musicians the freedom to explore new musical ideas.

With its portable design, the Korg EM-1 is perfect for musicians on the go. It's lightweight and compact, allowing it to be easily transported for live gigs or studio sessions. In an era where music production increasingly favors software and DAWs, the Korg EM-1 stands out as a paradigm of hands-on music creation, blending classic and modern technologies to inspire endless creativity in any musical endeavor.