American Audio VMS4.1 User manual
Featuring:
User Guide
and Reference Manual
6122 S. Eastern Ave
Los Angeles Ca. 90040
www.americanaudio.us
9/11
Sampling
Sampling
CONTENTS
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS........................................................................................................................3
ELECTRICAL PRECAUTIONS................................................................................................................4
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.......................................................................................................................5
UNPACKING.........................................................................................................................................6
CUSTOMER SUPPORT..........................................................................................................................6
SET-UP PRECAUTIONS.........................................................................................................................6
FEATURES...........................................................................................................................................7
VIRTUAL DJ SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS................................................................................................7
SET-UP INSTALLATION..........................................................................................................................7
ASIO DRIVER INSTALLATION.................................................................................................................8
FUNCTIONS AND CONTROLS..............................................................................................................9
AUDIO INTERFACE MODE..................................................................................................................17
EQ MODES...........................................................................................................................................19
FIRMWARE UPDATE............................................................................................................................21
COMPUTER CONNECTION.................................................................................................................22
SET UP..................................................................................................................................................24
WARRANTY...................................................................................................................................26
SPECIFICATIONS.............................................................................................................................27
Please Note: All specications and improvements to and in the design of this unit and this manuals
are subject to change at any time without any prior written or published noticed.
For service parts visit http://parts.americandj.com
Please visit one of the following websites to view and download the VMS4.1 MIDI table chart.
www.americanaudio.com
www.americanaudio.eu
www.VMS4dj.com
NOTE:
This unit may cause interference to radio and
television reception.
CAUTION:
USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OTHER
THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT
IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE
THE Media Controller SHOULD NOT BE ADJUSTED
OR REPAIRED BY ANYONE EXCEPT PROPERLY
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
CAUTION
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT USE THIS
(POLARIZED) PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION CORD,
RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES
CAN BE CAREFULLY INSERTED TO PREVENT BLADE
EXPOSURE
WARNING:
TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS Media Controller TO
WATER OR MOISTURE
CAUTION:
1. Handle the power supply cord carefully. Do not
damage or deform; it may cause electric shock
or malfunction when used. Hold plug attach-
ment when removing from wall outlet. Do not
pull on the cord.
2. To avoid electric shock, do not open the top
cover when the unit is plugged in. If problems
occur with the unit, call your local American
Audio®dealer.
3. Do not place metal objects or spill liquid inside
the Media Controller. Electric shock or malfunc-
tion may occur.
IMPORTANT SAFETY ITEMS FOR
U.S.A. & CANADA MODEL ONLY
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER RACK.
THERE ARE NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE REFER SERVICE TO YOUR
AUTHORIZED American Audio DEALER.
The lightning flash with an arrow triangular
symbol is intended to alert the user to the
presence of non insulated “dangerous volt-
age” within the products enclosure, and
may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock.
The exclamation point triangular symbol is
intended to alert the user to the presence
of important operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the user manual
accompanying the Media Controller.
CAUTION
Do not open -
Risk of electric shock
Please carefully read and understand the
instructions in this manual thoroughly before
attempting to operate this unit. These instruc-
tions contain important safety information
regarding the use and maintenance of this unit.
Take special care to follow all warning symbols
and labels both on the unit and printed in this
manual. Also, Please keep this manual with the
unit, for future reference.
CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT USE THIS (POLARIZED) PLUG WITH
AN EXTENSION CORD, RECEPTACLE, OR
OTHER TYPE OF ELECTRICAL OUTLET
UNLESS THE WIDE BLADES CAN BE
CAREFULLY INSERTED INTO A MATCHING
WIDE SLOT.
ATTENTION: POUR PREVENIR LES CHOCS
ELECTRIQUES NE PAS UTILISER CETTE
FICHE POLARISEE AVEC UN PROLON-
GATEUR, UNE PRISE DE COURANT OU
UNE AUTRE SORTIE DE COURANT, SAUF
SI LES LAMES PEUVENT ETRE INSEREES A
FOND SANS EN LAISSER AUCUNE PARTIE A
DECOUVERT.
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 3
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
ELECTRICAL PRECAUTIONS
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying the appliance.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the
product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
READ INSTRUCTIONS —All the safety and operating
instructions should be read before the product is
operated.
RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS — The safety and operating
instructions should be retained for future reference.
HEED WARNINGS— All warnings on the product and
in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS —All operating and use
instructions should be followed.
CLEANING —The product should be cleaned only with
a polishing cloth or a soft dry cloth. Never clean with
furniture wax, benzine, insecticides or other volatile
liquids since they may corrode the cabinet.
ATTACHMENTS —Do not use attachments not
recommended by the product manufacturer as they
may cause hazards.
WATER AND MOISTURE —Do not use this product
near water — for example, near a bathtub, wash
bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet basement;
or near a swimming pool; and the like.
ACCESSORIES —Do not place this product on an
unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The
product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or
adult, and serious damage to the product. Use only
with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table
recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with
the product. Any mounting of the product should
follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and should
use a mounting accessory recommended by the
manufacturer.
CART —A product and cart combination should be
moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and
uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart
combination to overturn.
VENTILATION —Slots and openings in the cabinet are
provided for ventilation and to ensure reliable
operation of the product and to protect it from
overheating, and these openings must not be
blocked or covered. The openings should never be
blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug,
or other similar surface. This product should not be
placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or
rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the
manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to.
POWER SOURCES —This product should be operated
only from the type of power source indicated on the
marking label. If you are not sure of the type of
power supply to your home, consult your product
dealer or local power company.
LOCATION– The appliance should be installed in a
stable location.
NONUSE PERIODS– The power cord of the appliance
should be unplugged from the outlet when left un-
used for a long period of time.
GROUNDING OR POLARIZATION
•If this product is equipped with a polarized alternating
current line plug (a plug having one blade wider than
the other), it will fit into the outlet only one way. This
is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug
fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug
should still fail to fit, contact your electrician to
replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the
safety purpose of the polarized plug.
•If this product is equipped with a three-wire
grounding type plug, a plug having a third (grounding)
pin, it will only fit into a grounding type power outlet.
This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the
plug into the outlet, contact your electrician to
replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the
safety purpose of the grounding type plug.
POWER-CORD PROTECTION -Power-supply cords
should be routed so that they are not likely to be
walked on or pinched by items placed upon or
against them, paying particular attention to cords at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where
they exit from the product.
OUTDOOR ANTENNA GROUNDING —If an outside
antenna or cable system is connected to the product,
be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so
as to provide some protection against voltage surges
and built-up static charges. Article 810 of the National
Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, provides information
with regard to proper grounding of the mast and
supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire
to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding
conductors, location of antenna-discharge unit,
connection to grounding electrodes, and
requirements for the grounding electrode. See Figure
A.
LIGHTNING —For added protection for this product
during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended
and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from
the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable
system. This will prevent damage to the product
due to lightning and power-line surges.
POWER LINES —An outside antenna system should
not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines
or other electric light or power circuits, or where it
can fall into such power lines or circuits. When
installing an outside antenna system, extreme care
should be taken to keep from touching such power
lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal.
OVERLOADING —Do not overload wall outlets,
extension cords, or
integral convenience receptacles
as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock.
OBJECT AND LIQUID ENTRY -Never push objects of
any kind into this product through openings as they
may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out
parts that could result in a fire or electric shock.
Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.
SERVICING — Do not attempt to service this product
yourself as opening or removing covers may expose
you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all
servicing to qualified service personnel.
DAMAGE REQUIRING SERVICE - Unplug this product
from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified
service personnel under the following conditions:
•When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
•If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into
the product.
•If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
•If the product does not operate normally by following
the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls
that are covered by the operating instructions as an
improper adjustment of other controls may result in
damage and will often require extensive work by a
qualified technician to restore the product to its
normal operation.
•If the product has been dropped or damaged in any
way.
•When the product exhibits a distinct change in
performance — this indicates a need for service.
REPLACEMENT PARTS -- W hen replacement parts
are required, be sure the service technician has used
replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or
have the same characteristics as the original part.
Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric
shock, or other hazards.
SAFETY CHECK -Upon completion of any service or
repairs to this product, ask the service technician to
perform safety checks to determine that the product
is in proper operating condition.
WALL OR CEILING MOUNTING —The product should
not be mounted to a wall or ceiling.
HEAT — The product should be situated away from heat
sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or
other products (including amplifiers) that produce
heat.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
ANTENNA
LEAD IN
WIRE
GROUND
CLAMP
ANTENNA
DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)
GROUND CLAMPS
POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250, PART H)
ELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENT
Fig. A
NEC — NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER (OR BACK).
THERE ARE N O USER SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE REFER SERVICE TO YOUR AUTHORIZED
AMERICAN AUDIO®SERVICE TECHNICIAN.
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 4
ELECTRICAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
I. Read Instructions - All the safety and operat-
ing instructions should be read before the
Player is operated. The safety and operating
instructions should be saved for future
reference.
2. Heed Warnings - All warnings on the
Player and in the operating instructions
should be adhered to.
3. Water and Moisture - The player should not
be used near water - for example, near a
bath tub, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a
wet basement or near a swimming pool, etc.
4. Ventilation - The Player should be situated
so that its location or position does not inter-
fere with its proper ventilation. For example,
the player should not be situated on
a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may
block the ventilation openings; or, placed in
a built-in installation, such as a bookcase
or cabinet that may impede the flow of
air through the ventilation openings.
5. Heat - The player should be situated
away from heat sources such as radiators,
heat registers, stoves, or other appliances
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
6. Power Sources - The player should be
connected to a power supply only of the
type described in the operating instructions
or as marked on the Player.
7. Servicing - The user should not attempt
to service the Player beyond that
described in the operating instructions. All
other servicing should be referred to quali-
fied service personnel. The Player should be
serviced by qualified service personnel when:
A. The power-supply cord or the plug has
been damaged.
B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been
spilled into the Player.
C. The Player has been exposed to rain
or water.
D. The Player does not appear to
operate normally or exhibits a marked
change in performance.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
The serial and model number for this unit is
located on the rear panel. Please write down
the numbers here and retain for future refer-
ence.
Model No.________________________________
Serial No.________________________________
Purchase Notes:
Date of Purchase__________________________
Dealer Name______________________________
Dealer Address____________________________
_________________________________________
________________________________________
Dealer Phone_____________________________
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 5
Introduction:
Congratulations and thank you for purchasing the American Audio®VMS4.1 Media Controller. This
controller is a representation of American Audio’s continuing commitment to produce the best and
highest quality audio products possible at an aordable price. Please read and understand this manual
completely before attempting to operate your new player. This booklet contains important information
concerning the proper and safe operation of your new controller.
Customer Support:
American Audio®provides a toll free customer support line, to provide set up help and answer any
question should you encounter problems during your initial set up or operation. You may also visit us
on the web at www.americanaudio.us for any comments or suggestions. Service Hours are Monday
through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Pacic Standard Time.
Voice: (800) 322-6337
Fax: (323) 582-2610
To purchase parts online visit http://parts.americandj.com
Caution! There are no user serviceable parts inside this Media Controller. Do not attempt any repairs
yourself, without being instructed to do so by an authorized American Audio service technician. Doing
so will void your manufactures warranty. In the unlikely event your Media Controller may require ser-
vice, please contact American Audio®customer support.
Do not discard the packing carton in the trash. Please recycle when ever possible.
INTRODUCTION
UNPACKING
Every VMS4.1 has been thoroughly tested and has been shipped in perfect operating condition. Care-
fully check the shipping carton for damage that may have occurred during shipping. If the carton
appears to be damaged, carefully inspect your player for any damage and be sure all equipment
necessary to operate the player has arrived intact. In the event damage has been found or parts are
missing, please contact our toll free customer support number for further instructions. Please do not
return the player to your dealer without rst contacting customer support.
Please be sure to make any connections before plugging the player in to an electrical outlet. All fader
and volume controls should be set to zero or minimum position, before the player is switched on. If the
player has been exposed to drastic temperature uctuation (e.g. after transportation), do not switch
on the player immediately. The arising condensation of water might damage your device. Leave the
device switched o until it has reached room temperature.
Operating Determinations:
• When installing this player, please make sure that the device is not exposed or will not be ex-
posed to extreme heat, moisture or dust!
• Do not operate the player in extremely hot (more than 40°/104°F) or extremely cold (less than
5°C/40°F) surroundings.
• Keep the unit out of direct sunlight and away from heaters.
• Operate the player only after becoming familiar with its' functions. Do not permit operation by
persons not qualied for operating the unit. Most damages are the result of unprofessional operation.
SET-UP PRECAUTIONS
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 6
• 4 Sample Buttons Per Side • 4-Channel Mixer w/ Volume Faders
• MIDI Control via USB • Master and Booth Outputs w/ L/R Balance
• Built-In 4 In 4 Out/2 In 8 Out Sound Card • X & Y Parameter Adjustments
• Seamless Loop (uninterrupted loop playback) • Master Volume Control
• Full EQ on 4 MIDILOG Channels & 2 Mic Channels • Track & Deck Selectors
• Crossfader Assign, Curve, & Reverse • Durable Touch Sensitive High-Res Jog Wheel
• Pitch Lock • Two Mic Combo Jacks
• Pitch Bend • Innofader Compatiable
• 82 MIDI Controls • High Life Touch Strips & Mouse Pad
• USB/Analog Source Selects on Each MIDILOG Channel
MAIN FEATURES
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 7
1. Checking the Contents
Be sure your VMS4.1 was shipped with the following:
1) VMS4.1 Controller 2) Operating Instructions (This Booklet)
3) USB Cable 4) 5V Power Adapter
5) Virtual DJ Software 6) Warranty card
2. Installing the Units
1) Place your unit on a flat surface or mount it in a secure rack mount case.
2) Be sure the player is mounted in a well ventilated area where it will not be exposed to direct
sunlight, high temperatures, or high humidity.
3) Try to place the unit as far as possible from TVs and tuners, as the unit may cause undesir-
able interference.
3. Connections
1) Be sure main power is connected last to prevent any electrical damage.
2) AUDIO CONNECTIONS: Use RCA or XLR cables to connect the VMS4.1 outputs to pow-
ered speakers or an amplifier. Never connect this player's output to a mixers "phono" inputs.
3) CONTROL JACK CONNECTIONS: Use a 1/8” mono (not stereo) mini plug cable to connect
your VMS4.1 to a mini jack connection (A or B) on a compatible American Audio®or Amer-
ican DJ®“Fader Q Start” mixer. (This will enable the Fader “Q” Start function - See “Q” start
control page 15).
CAUTION:
• Be sure to use mono 1/8" control cables. Using other types of cable may result in unit dam-
age.
• To avoid severe damage to the unit, be sure the power is off when making connections to
the unit.
SET-UP
VIRTUAL DJ SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS*
PC Requirements:
• Windows XP Sp2 or Windows Vista (32-bit & 64-bit supported)
• PIV 1.2GHz Computer (SSE2 CPU), AMD 64 or Greater
• 1024_768 SVGA Video
• 2 GIG RAM (Vista)
• 40MB Free on the Hard-Drive (Recommended 2000MB)
• DirectX 9.0
Mac Requirements:
• Mac OS X 10.5 PPC/Intel, 10.5.6 Intel, or 10.6 Intel
• 1.86GHz
• 2GB RAM
* System Requirements may dier due to manufacturer software
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 8
SOFTWARE & ASIO DRIVER INSTALLATION
Insert the disc into your computer cd drive and "click" on the CD icon.
Depending the typ of computer you are operating,
choose the Exe file for PC or the DMG file for MAC.
Choose your desired language and "click"
OK. Read the following information and "click"
Next. Follow the screen prompts to install the
software.
The ASIO Driver installation will open during
the Virtual DJ installation. PC users, follow the
screen prompts for proper installation. Mac
install is automatic after "clicking" on the DMG
file.
GENERAL FUNCTIONS AND CONTROLS
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 9
Figure 1
1 2 3 4 5
78910111213
14
15
16
17
19
20
18
6
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 10
A. PLAYER - FRONT (FIGURE 1)
1. IN, OUT, RELOOP, & LOOP BUTTONS
IN BUTTON - “CUE ON THE FLY” - This function allows you to set a CUE POINT without music inter-
ruption (“on the fly”). This button also sets the starting point of a seamless loop.
OUT BUTTON -This button is used to set the ending point of a loop. A loop is started by pressing
the IN BUTTON, pressing the OUT BUTTON set the loop ending point. The loop will continue to play
until the OUT BUTTON is pressed once again.
RELOOP BUTTON - If a SEAMLESS LOOP has been made, but the player is not actively in
SEAMLESS LOOP mode (a loop is not playing), pressing the RELOOP BUTTON will instantly reacti-
vate the SEAMLESS LOOP mode. To exit loop, press the OUT BUTTON.
2. EFFECT SECTION
SELECT ENCODER KNOB - Use this knob to scroll through the various effects.
CONTROL KNOB - Set the value of the selected effect parameter.
ON/OFF BUTTON - Toggle selected effect on and off. A lit LED will indicate the effect is on.
PARAMETER BUTTON - Press this button to toggle through the available effect parameters.
3. SAMPLE SECTION
SELECT ENCODER KNOB - Use this knob to scroll through samples.
VOLUME KNOB - Use this knob to set the volume of the selected sample.
PLAY BUTTON - Press this button to play the selected sample. Press this button plus the SHIFT
button to loop a sample.
REC. BUTTON - Use this button to start and stop recording a select sample. Press this button plus
the SHIFT button to save a loop to your selected sample.
4. MIDILOG MIXER SECTION
CHANNEL GAIN CONTROL - This adjustment is used to adjust the audio source signal input gain
for a channel. Never use the gain control to adjust a channels output volume. Setting the gain level
properly will ensure a clean output signal. An improper gain level adjustment will send a distorted
signal throughout the entire audio line which may damage speakers and amplifiers. To properly set a
channels gain level control:
1. Be sure the MASTER VOLUME CONTROL is set to level 4.
2. Set the CHANNEL FADER to level 8.
3. Begin playback on an audio source connected to the channel you are adjusting.
4. Use the Gain Control to adjust an average output volume of +4 dB.
5. Repeat this step for all channels
CHANNEL TREBLE CONTROL -This knob is used to adjust the treble levels of a channel allowing
for a maximum treble gain of +6dB or maximum decrease of -100dB. Turning the knob in a counter-
clockwise direction will decrease the amount of treble applied to a channel signal, turning the knob in
a clockwise direction will increase the amount of treble applied to a channel signal.
CHANNEL MIDRANGE CONTROL - This knob is used to adjust the midrange levels of a channel
allowing for a maximum midrange gain of +6dB or maximum decrease of -100dB. Turning the knob
in a counter-clockwise direction will decrease the amount of midrange applied to a channel signal,
turning the knob in a clockwise direction will increase the amount of midrange applied to a channel
signal.
GENERAL FUNCTIONS AND CONTROLS (Cont.)
CHANNEL BASS CONTROL -This knob is used to adjust the low frequency levels of a channel
allowing for a maximum bass gain of +6dB or maximum signal decrease of -100dB. Turning the knob
in a counter-clockwise direction will decrease the amount of bass applied to a channel signal, turning
the knob in a clockwise direction will increase the amount of bass applied to a channel signal.
CUE BUTTON - These buttons are used to activate a channels “CUE” mode. The CUE LED will glow
when a channels cue mode is activated. The Cue function sends a channels incoming signal to the
headphones. The cue level is adjusted by the CUE LEVEL KNOB.
NOTE: The MIDILOG cue button has a additional function. During power-on, hold this button down to toggle the
post EQ mode on and off. For more on this please refer to the Virtual DJ Setup near the end of this manual.
CHANNEL FADER - These faders are used to control the output signal of any source assigned to its
particular player.
5. MOUSE PAD - This will function as a normal mouse pad on laptop would function. The LOAD but-
tons underneath are the left and right click buttons. When any of the SHIFT buttons are active (LED lit)
the mouse pad is disabled and is able to send MIDI messages. Adjustments to the mouse pad can be
made in the Control Panel (PC) or Utilities (Mac).
6. MASTER VOLUME, BALANCE, & BOOTH CONTROLS
MASTER VOLUME CONTROL - This knob is used to control the master output level. To avoid dis-
torted output try to maintain an average output signal level no greater than +4dB. To avoid speaker
damage that may be caused by excessive volume, be sure this knob is always set to zero (completely
down) before turning the unit on.
MASTER OUTPUT BALANCE CONTROL - This knob is used to control the pan, adjust how much
of the signal is sent to the left and right output level. For true stereo imaging, maintain the knob in the
12 o’ clock position.
BOOTH LEVEL - This knob is used to adjusts the monitor volume output level. Turn the knob in a
clockwise direction to increase the monitor volume.
7. CHANNEL VOLUME LEVEL INDICATORS - The LED indicators that run along each channels
EQ section are used to measure incoming signal levels. Use these indicator to visually maintain an
average signal output of +4dB. A consistent average output level of +4dB will produce a clean output
signal. When no CUE sources are selected, these indicate the volume level on the MASTER OUTPUT.
When one or more CUE sources are selected, these indicate the volume level on all of the CUE
sources combined. At power-on, these indicate the VMS4.1 rmware version. If the left side lights up
1 LED, and the right side lights up 3 LEDs, the rmare version is 1.3.
8. CROSSFADER - This fader is used to blend the output signals of channels A and B together. When
the fader is in the full left position (channel A), the output signal of channel A will be controlled by the
master volume level. The same fundamentals will apply for channel B. Sliding the fader from one posi-
tion to another will vary the output signals of channels A and B respectively. When the crossfader is
set in the center position, the output signals of both the channels A and channels B will be even.
9. TOUCH STRIPS - The touch strips are user assingnable to numerous actions, e.g. eects control,
song scrolling, browser scroll, etc.
10. SEARCH BUTTONS -
This search button allows you to quickly scan backwards through a track.
This search button allows you to quickly scan forwards through a track.
GENERAL FUNCTIONS AND CONTROLS (Cont.)
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 11
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 12
11. PAUSE BUTTON - Press this button to PAUSE what ever music source is playing.
12. PLAY BUTTON - Press this button to PLAY your desired music source.
13. CUE - Pressing the CUE button during playback immediately pauses playback and returns the
track to the last set cue point. The red CUE LED will glow when the unit is in cue mode. The LED will
also flash every time a new CUE POINT is set. The CUE button can be held down to momentarily play
the track. When you release the CUE button it instantly returns to the CUE POINT. You can also tap
the CUE button to create a BOP EFFECT.
14. JOG WHEEL - This wheel has three functions;
Attention: Make sure that NOTHING is touch or resting on the jog wheels when you power on the
VMS4.1.
A. The wheel works as a pitch bend during Playback. Turning the wheel clockwise can increase the
pitch percentage up to 100%, and turning the wheel in the counter-clockwise direction can de-
crease the pitch percentage down to -100%. The pitch bend will be determined on how long
you turn the jog wheel continuously.
B. The jog wheel also controls the scratch effect, when the scratch effect is active.
C. The jog wheel can also serve as frame search.
Note: The inside of the wheel is touch sensitive and the outside edge of the wheel is not. Example:
You can scratch by touching the inside or center of the wheel, and pitch bend when you touch the
outside edge of the wheel.
15. VINYL - Pushing this button activates VINYL mode.
16. SHIFT - Enables secondary MIDI command on buttons, jog wheel, and MIDI functions on mouse
pad. Example: Press SHIFT and VINYL to activate Keylock.
17. (-) PITCH BEND BUTTON -The (-) pitch bend function creates a momentary “Slow Down” in the
BPM’s (Beats per minute) while it is playing. This will allow you to match the beats between two play-
ing audio sources. Remember, this is a momentary function. When you remove your finger from the
pitch button, the BPM’s will automatically return to PITCH SLIDER'S pitch value Holding down this
button will give a maximum of -100% pitch. Use this function to slow to another playing music source.
Be sure to notice that this function is a momentary pitch adjustment, for a more precise adjustment
use the PITCH SLIDER (7) to match the BPM’s with another playing music source.
(+) PITCH BEND BUTTON - The (+) pitch bend function creates a momentary “BUMP” in the
BPM’s (Beats per minute) while it is playing. This will allow you to match the beats between two play-
ing audio sources. Remember, this is a momentary function. When you remove your finger from this
button, the BPM’s will automatically return to the PITCH SLIDER'S selected pitch. Holding down this
button will give a maximum of +100% pitch.
18. BANK BUTTONS - These buttons are used to store either four (4) cue points or four (4) samples.
Each Bank Button can store either a sample or a cue point.
19. PITCH SLIDER - This slider is used to adjust the playback pitch percentage. The slider is a set
adjustment and will remain set until the pitch slider is moved or the pitch function has been turned
off.
20. SYNC BUTTON - Use this button to set this deck to master and auto sync and the other deck's
tempo to master.
GENERAL FUNCTIONS AND CONTROLS (Cont.)
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 13
FRONT PANEL - GENERAL FUNCTIONS AND CONTROLS
FRONT PANEL -
MIC SECTION (21-23) - the VMS4.1 is equipped with 2 microphone inputs, easy to use, no ASIO
routing required. Each microphone channel has an independent on/off switch, gain control, and 3
band EQ.
21. MIC ON/OFF - Turns the corresponding microphone on/off. When you Mic is on the button will
be backlit by a red LED.
22. MIC GAIN CONTROL - Increase or decrease the microphone output.
23. MIC EQ - Adjust the treble, mid, and bass on the corresponding Mic inputs.
MIXER CONTROLS (24-25) - the VMS4.1 can be used as a MIDI control, a stand alone mixer, or
combination giving you maximum control of your music collection whether it be on vinyl, digital CD's
or Computer DJ software (Virtual DJ included).
24. USB/ANALOG SWITCH - These will switch the corresponding Channel from USB audio stream
or analog audio input. USB will route the software assigned ASIO audio channel thru the corre-
sponding MIDILOG channel. Analog will route the analog audio input from the rear panel thru the
corresponding MIDILOG channel.
25. CF ASSIGN A & B - CF Assign A will select the desired channel to the left side of the crossfad-
er.* CF Assign B will select the desired channel to the right side of the crossfader.*
* Normal Mode: This will be the opposite when the crossfader is reversed.
* The CROSSFADER will only effect a channel's volume when the channel is assigned.
Interface Mode (26-28) - the VMS4.1 can be used as a MIDI control, a stand alone mixer, or com-
bination giving you maximum control of your music collection whether it be on vinyl, digital CD's or
Computer DJ software (Virtual DJ included).
26. 4 OUT: 4 OUT X 4 IN USB - Sets MIDILOG channels 2 & 3 to receive audio from software with
ASIO outputs and sends audio or control tones from the channel 2 & 3 RCA inputs to your software
ASIO inputs.
8 OUT: 8 OUT X 2 IN USB - Sets 4 MIDILOG channels to receive audio from software with
ASIO outputs and sends the audio from the master output via USB for recording.
27. NORMAL/REVERSE - Switches the crossfader from normal to reverse mode. In reverse mode
the CF A assignments will be on the right of the crossfader and the CF B on the left.
28. CURVE KNOB - This knob will adjust the curve of the crossfader from mix curve, dipped curve,
to scratch curve.
21 22 23 24
25
24
26
24 24 27 29
25
30 31
28
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FRONT PANEL - GENERAL FUNCTIONS AND CONTROLS
Headphone Controls (28-30)
29. CUE/MASTER KNOB - Sets the headphone output from Cue or Master. When set to the Cue
position, the headphones will receive the signal from any and all channels with the Cue button acti-
vated. When set to the Master position, the headphones will receive the pre fader master output
signal, allowing you to cue the master at any output level and even if it is fully off. Any knob settings
in between Cue and Master will blend the Cue and Master signals.
30. HEADPHONE GAIN - Will set the output level of the headphones.
31. HEADPHONE JACK - Connect your headphones to this jack. The headphone signal is con-
trolled by the controls described previously.
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REAR PANEL - GENERAL FUNCTIONS AND CONTROLS
32
34 35
33 33 36 37 38
41 41
4039 39 40 39 39 42 43
REAR PANEL -
32. POWER SWITCH - This switch will turn the VMS4.1 on/off.
Attention: Make sure that NOTHING is touch or resting on the jog wheels when you power on the
VMS4.1.
OUTPUTS (33-38)
33. Q-START - These 1/8 jacks remotely start playback in Q-Start equipped or compatiable CD
players. The start and stop correspond to the audio start and stop of the corresponding side of the
crossfader.
34. POWER SUPPLY - The power supply is not required, but the LED indicators on the mixer knobs
will be dim, headphones may be underpowered, and there is an increased chance of audio distor-
tion.
35. USB PORT - Connect to your PC for MIDI interface and USB interface (audio in and outs).
36. XLR BALANCED OUTPUTS - The VMS4.1 has RCA (unbalanced) and XLR (balanced) connec-
tions to connect to amplifiers or connect directly to powered speakers. It is highly recommended
that the XLR outs be used for any connection of more then 20ft. Never connect the XLR outs and
the RCA outs at the same time, this may affect your output. To set your desired volume use the
Master volume knob.
37. BOOTH OUTPUTS - The VMS4.1 offers a secondary output usually used to monitor your mix
or to route to an outboard recording device. This output has independent volume control "Booth"
knob.
38. RCA OUTPUTS - The VMS4.1 has RCA (unbalanced) and XLR (balanced) connections to con-
nect to amplifiers or connect directly to powered speakers. It is highly recommended that the XLR
outs be used for any connection of more then 20ft. Never connect the XLR outs and the RCA outs
at the same time, this may affect your output. To set your desired volume use the Master volume
knob.
INPUTS (39, 42-43)
39. RCA INPUTS - RCA connectors for CD, turntable, and other analog inputs.
MIDILOG 1: Line level RCA input use to control CD players, Mp3 players, or other line level
sources.
MIDILOG 2: Phono/line level RCA input use to connect turntables, CD players, Mp3 play-
ers, or other line level sources. The type of input must directly reect the selected mode of
the LINE/PHONO SELECTOR SWITCH. Turntables equipped with MM pickup cartridge (All
DJ turntable use MM pick-up cartridges) may be connected to these jacks as long as the
LINE/PHONO SELECTOR SWITCH is in the “PHONO” position. CD players, Mp3 players,
and other line level instruments may only be connected to these jacks as long as the
LINE LEVEL SELECTOR SWITCH is in the “LINE” position.
MIDILOG 3: Phono/line level RCA input use to connect turntables, CD players, Mp3 play-
ers, or other line level sources. The type of input must directly reect the selected mode of
the LINE/PHONO SELECTOR SWITCH. Turntables equipped with MM pickup cartridge (All
DJ turntable use MM pick-up cartridges) may be connected to these jacks as long as the
LINE/PHONO SELECTOR SWITCH is in the “PHONO” position. CD players, Mp3 players,
and other line level instruments may only be connected to these jacks as long as the
LINE LEVEL SELECTOR SWITCH is in the “LINE” position.
MIDILOG 4: Line level RCA input use to control CD players, Mp3 players, or other line level
sources.
40. PHONO GROUND - Be sure to connect turntable ground leads to either or both of the two
available ground terminals. This will reduce the humming and popping noises associated with
magnetic phono cartridges.
41. LINE/PHONO SELECTOR SWITCH - These switches are used to change the voltage line lev-
els of there respected Line/Phono RCA inputs jacks. When connecting turntables with magnetic
cartridges to these jacks be sure the corresponding switch is in the “PHONO” position, and when
using line level input devices be sure this switch is in the “LINE” position.
42. MIC 2 - XLR and 1/4" combo jack for microphone connection. The volume output level for this
microphone will be controlled by its own respective volume knob.
43. MIC 1 - XLR and 1/4" combo jack for microphone connection. The volume output level for this
microphone will be controlled by its own respective volume knob.
REAR PANEL - GENERAL FUNCTIONS AND CONTROLS
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AUDIO INTERFACE MODE
Audio Interface Mode:
4 Out Mode: The VMS4.1 can act like a 4x4 audio interface. Your USB audio is routed through the
VMS4.1's MIDILOG Ch. #2 and #3 inputs. If you wish to route the inputs via USB for software play
through or Time Code Control, set your desired VMS4.1 Channel to the USB setting and the chan -
nels' LINE/PHONO SELECTOR SWITCH (41) to the correct setting.
Note: For the best performance, if no inputs are in use, set the Inputs to Disabled by "clicking" on
the ASIO Driver Interface. Your inputs and outputs can be set to channels 1-16, but your software
may not support the ASIO stream of the channel numbers. Check the software manual to make
sure it does.
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 18
AUDIO INTERFACE MODE
8 Out Mode: This mode supports 4 USB audio inputs. Perfect for using it with software that has 3-4
decks. This will also route your master output via USB for recording USB audio or analog inputs.
MIDI LATENCY MODES
There are two MIDI Latency modes; Normal mode and Turbo mode. Normal mode has MIDI Latency
of 10 milliseconds, this is the default mode. Turbo mode has a MIDI latency of 1 millisecond.
To set the VMS4.1 to "Turbo mode:
Before powering on press and hold the CUE, PLAY, and PAUSE buttons on the LEFT side.
Hold the buttons until CHANNEL VOLUME LEVEL INDICATORS (7) light up with the code version.
See page 11 CHANNEL VOLUME LEVEL INDICATORS for information on the code version.
It is recommended that you use the default mode if your computer does not meet the recommend -
ed system requirements or are using Windows Vista. It is also strongly recommended that you close
all programs running in the background, this will free up RAM and minimize CPU process. If you are
using a laptop, turn off your wireless card if possible since this may cause sound problems. Allow
your computers hard drive to have at least 20% free space.
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 19
EQ MODES
The EQ for the USB audio can work in two different modes, Pre & Post EQ. These EQ modes can
work in both 4 out and 8 out interface modes that are described on pages 19-20.
In Pre EQ the USB audio signal is affected by the VMS4.1 EQ. Pre EQ is the default EQ. In Pre EQ
mode the ASIO Driver will list the VMS4.1 device number, the first number in the sequence will be a
"0". Please see the window below.
***Beware that mapping the MIDI on the EQ knobs in this mode will cause your audio to process the
EQ from the software and VMS4.1 EQ.
EQ MODES
Post EQ is for users who prefer using the EQ from their software. To toggle the post EQ mode
on and off; before powering up the VMS4.1, press and hold the PFL CUE (4) on the 4th chan-
nel MIDILOG and then power "ON" the unit. Release the button, your computer may reinstall the
VMS4.1 as a new device, please allow 10-20 seconds for the change to take place. Confirm the EQ
change by checking the ASIO Driver configuration. The first number in the sequence will be a "1" in
this mode. Please see the window below.
Make sure you are using software where you can map the MIDI from the EQ and that the EQ has
been mapped when using this mode.
©American Audio®- www.americanaudio.us - VMS4.1 Instruction Manual Page 20
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