Transposition

In some cases it may be useful to reduce or increase the pitch by a number of semitones rather than an entire octave. For example, if you are playing a song with a singer that is having difficulty hitting the top notes, you may want to reduce the pitch by one or two semitones.* This is achieved using a MIDI function called “Transpose.”

Transpose works in the same way as Octave Shift above, except the shift is +/- 12. As with Octave Shift, there are two ways of transposing the keyboard. You can use the Octave “+” and “-” buttons, or the black keys F# 3, G# 3 and Bb3. These black keys represent “TRANSPOSE -,” “TRANSPOSE 0” and “TRANSPOSE +,” respectively.

To assign the Octave “+” and “-” buttons to transpose:

<Press the Advanced Functions button to engage Edit Mode.

<Press the black key above D1 (named D# 1), representing “DATA = TRANSPOSE.” (Edit Mode will disengage as soon as D# 1 has been pressed.)

<Press the “+” key and you will hear the pitch of the note you play go up.

<Press both “+” and “-“ together to cancel transpose.

*A semitone represents the change in pitch from one note to another. Therefore, changing two semitones is the same as playing a note two notes higher.

Channel

MIDI data from the keyboard can be sent on any of 16 MIDI Channels. However, certain MIDI devices and MIDI software applications require the keyboard to send data on a specified channel. If this is the case, you can change the channel the data is sent using the following method:

<Press the Advanced Functions button to engage Edit Mode.

<Press one of the 16 Channel keys from D1 to E3, according to the Channel that you need.

For example, if a device specifies that you need to send data on Channel 10, press the Advanced Functions button, and then key F2 to select Channel 10.

The Channel can also be assigned to the Octave “+” and “-” buttons. Once assigned, pressing “+” or “-” will increase or decrease the channel incrementally. When Channel 16 is reached and “+” is pressed, Channel 1 will be selected. If the Octave “+” and “-” keys are selected to vary the Channel, the lights above the buttons will not change, since it is not possible to have a Channel with a negative value. Pressing both the “+” and “-” buttons together will recall Channel 1.

Program Change

Program Changes are used to change the instrument or voice you are using. For the sake of example, we will change the instrument to a bass sound. To do this we need to send a program change of 32, which will select an acoustic bass sound from the General MIDI Instruments list in the Appendix. There are two ways to send a program change:

1.Incremental/Decremental Program Change:

<Press the Advanced Functions button.

<Press the black key above F1 (named F# 1).

<Now the Octave “+” and “-” keys can be used to change the program.

<Press “+” and continue to play notes until you find the instrument you want.

2. Quick Select Program Change:

<Press the Advanced Functions button.

<Press the black key above F4 (named F# 4), representing “Program.”

<Press keys C4, then E3 then C5. This enters the combination: “3,” “2,” “ENTER.” Alternatively, you can use the “+” and “-” buttons to change

the value, then press ENTER. Now the keyboard will play a bass sound: Number 32 as listed in the General MIDI Instruments list.

The first method is useful if you want to cycle through different instruments to see which sounds best in your song. The second is more useful if you want to select a specific number, as is the case here.

If the Octave “+” and “-” keys are selected to vary the Program number (Method 1), the lights above the buttons will not change, since it is not possible to have a Program with a negative value. Pressing both the “+” and “-” buttons together will recall Program 0, which selects a grand piano sound.

The full list of instruments that can be accessed via Program Changes is listed in the Appendix at the end of this manual.

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M-Audio 49e, 61es, 88es manual Transposition, Channel, Program Change
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61es, 49e, 88es specifications

M-Audio has established itself as a reputable name in the world of MIDI keyboards, and its series of controllers, such as the Keystation 88es, 49e, and 61es, stand out for their combination of simplicity, functionality, and accessibility. Each model caters to different needs, ensuring that musicians, producers, and composers can find an option that fits their playstyle and requirements.

The M-Audio Keystation 88es features 88 full-sized, velocity-sensitive keys that are ideal for pianists looking for an authentic playing experience. This model excels with its semi-weighted keybed, enabling expressive performance across a variety of musical genres. The comprehensive pitch bend and modulation wheels further enhance creativity, allowing for dynamic nuances during play. Besides the keys, the controller is designed with user-friendliness in mind, offering straightforward plug-and-play functionality that is compatible with various music software.

In contrast, the M-Audio Keystation 49e and 61es present a more compact solution without sacrificing functionality. The Keystation 49e features 49 velocity-sensitive keys, while the Keystation 61es includes 61 keys, making both options perfect for musicians with limited workspace or who require portability. These models are equally equipped with pitch bend and modulation controls, allowing for nuanced performances and creative expression.

Technologically, all these controllers boast a range of integrated features that cater to modern musicians. They come equipped with customizable controls such as transport buttons, which interact seamlessly with most DAWs, enhancing workflow and minimizing distractions. Furthermore, their compatibility with popular music production software like Ableton Live Lite makes these keyboards an attractive choice for aspiring creators.

The M-Audio range places a strong emphasis on MIDI functionality, ensuring that users can easily connect to their computer or other MIDI-compatible devices. This opens a world of possibilities for music creation, including composing, arranging, and performing. The lightweight and durable design also make them ideal for live performances and studio sessions.

In summary, M-Audio’s Keystation 88es, 49e, and 61es keyboards offer versatile features and technologies that cater to various musical needs. With their ergonomic design, velocity-sensitive keys, efficient DAW integration, and portable nature, these controllers provide musicians with the tools necessary for exploration and creativity in sound production. Whether in a studio or on the road, M-Audio delivers with these reliable and intuitive MIDI keyboards.
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