Devine VersaKey Series User manual

VersaKey Series
MIDI Keyboards
VersaKey 25, 49, 61, 88
User Manual
The information included in this user manual is subject to change at any time and without notification:
Version:
1.0
Date and author initials: 02-11-2020 RV Revision date and author initials: -

Introduction
Thank you for purchasing one of the Devine VersaKey MIDI keyboards. This practical yet
compact and focussed MIDI keyboard offers ideal, hands-on control over the parameters of
a D W or other software programmes where using a mouse and computer keyboard can be
restricting. The small size and USB-bus powered design combined with the practical control
features and smooth software integration gives you everything you need to support
streamlined audio production.
This user manual will not only provide set-up instructions, but will also explain how to get the
very best out of the functions this keyboard has to offer and how to solve any problems you
may encounter while setting up or using it. We strongly recommend reading these
instructions in detail before using your MIDI keyboard.
Bo contents:
1x MIDI keyboard (VersaKey 25, 49, 61 or 88)
1x USB connecting cable
1x Bitwig 8-Track D W software voucher
Bitwig 8-Track DAW
Specially for this series, Devine has collaborated with one of the most
accessible and user friendly D W developers: Bitwig.
The Bitwig 8-Track D W (Digital udio Workstation) provides any
beginner or advanced music producer everything they need, and by
purchasing a Devine MIDI controller, you’re granted free access to this
excellent software.
While the 8-Track edition of Bitwig is not limited in terms of functionality,
only a certain number of audio tracks can be used at the same time. s such, this entry-level
version of the programme offers the opportunity to understand and get to grips with all of the
available functions before upgrading to the full version (Bitwig Studio) at a later date. With
the included voucher, you are entitled to a reduced rate when upgrading Bitwig Studio.
To use Bitwig 8-Track, simply register at www.bitwig.com/8-track and follow the steps to
install Bitwig 8-Track on your computer.
special function has been included in Bitwig for the Devine VersaKey Series, ensuring that
your model is included in the list of compatible MIDI devices. This way, when you connect
your device up to a computer running Bitwig, the device will immediately switch to the
correct operating mode for Bitwig.
If you don’t need to use Bitwig 8-Track, then you can give the voucher to someone else
since the software can also be used without a Devine MIDI keyboard.
The information included in this user manual is subject to change at any time and without notification:
Version:
1.0
Date and author initials: 02-11-2020 RV Revision date and author initials: -

Safety Instructions
Every person involved with the installation, operation and maintenance of this device must:
- Be qualified.
- Be skilled.
- Have read the instructions included in this user manual.
- Be sure that neither the device nor any included accessories are damaged. Should the
device or the included accessories be damaged, please contact your retailer for further
advice.
- Ensure that the device is in good working condition and is safe to operate. Please follow
the advice and instructions as they are described in this user manual.
Damage caused by misuse and/or modifications made to the device are not covered by the
warranty.
This device does not contain any parts that can be repaired or replaced by the user. Should
maintenance or repairs be necessary, they must be carried out by a qualified technician.
Important information regarding health and safety:
- Do not remove any labels or stickers from this device.
- Do not leave any cables lying around where they are in danger of causing a tripping
hazard.
- The housing of this device should not be opened and any hardware or software that may
be present should not be modified.
- To achieve optimal performance, any inputs on the device should not be fed with a signal
higher than necessary.
- The device must only be used indoors; contact with water, rain and moisture must always
be avoided. Do not place any objects containing liquid on top of the device.
- Remove the device from any nearby flames or heat sources; do not place it near
flammable fluids, gasses or objects.
- Disconnect this device from a power source if it is not being used for a long period of time,
if maintenance is necessary, or if it needs to be cleaned.
– Do not pull or tug on the cable to remove a plug as this may cause damage.
- Do not use any cables other than those specified in this manual. Do not use defective
cables. Please contact your retailer if the included or necessary cables do not function
properly with this device.
The information included in this user manual is subject to change at any time and without notification:
Version:
1.0
Date and author initials: 02-11-2020 RV Revision date and author initials: -
WARNING!
Keep this device away from moisture, water and rain
to prevent risk of electric shocks!

- In the event that the device is exposed to extreme temperature changes (e.g. transported
from a cold outdoor environment into a warm indoor environment), it should not be turned on
until it has reached room temperature. This is necessary to prevent moisture (condensation)
from forming inside the device, which could lead to electric shocks.
Use & Operation Guidelines:
- This device is intended for indoor use and must only be operated by an adult.
- This device is not suitable for use by children and must always be operated by an adult.
- This device can only be used in appropriate environments where no damage to the device
can occur. Do not use the device in moist or dusty environments such as:
- indoor swimming pools where chlorine is used
- beaches or any location where sand and/or salt is present
- outdoors
- indoors in spaces where intense heat sources are present, or where it can reach
temperature levels that would be considered uncomfortable for a person.
- void impact and collisions during use and transport. Do not move or transport the device
while it is in use. - void using excessive force when installing and operating the device.
- ny user must become familiar with the functions of this device before using it.
- Should the device not be used in the manner described in this user manual, damages or
even injuries could occur. Devine cannot be held responsible for any injuries or damages
that occur as a result of improper use of this product.
Storage & Transport:
- This device is not designed for mobile use. This device must always be transported in its
original packaging, or in an appropriate padded bag/cover that is able to provide adequate
protection.
– This device has not been designed for continuous (24/7) use. Regularly switching off the
device will not affect its lifespan. lways switch off and disconnect the device whenever it is
not in active use.
- When the device is not in use for long periods of time, always disconnect the device and
store it in a dust free environment.
– Do not expose the device to extreme temperature shifts.
Housing:
- Frequently inspect the housing of the device and always just before use. void operating
the device if any large dents or cracks are found in the housing, or if screws are missing. Do
not use the device if the housing is not in good condition. Contact your dealer or a qualified
technician if you are unsure about the state of the device.
- Check the device and screws for any corrosion. If any corrosion is found, do not use the
device. Contact your dealer or a qualified technician if the screws or housing show any signs
of corrosion.
- Ensure that every power and signal socket is securely fitted. Do not use the device if any
of the sockets are not secure.
- void the build up of any dust and dirt. Clean the device once a month by disconnecting it
from the power supply and wiping it down with a dry or slightly moist cloth. If the device is
used frequently, the device should also be cleaned more frequently.
The information included in this user manual is subject to change at any time and without notification:
Version:
1.0
Date and author initials: 02-11-2020 RV Revision date and author initials: -

Symbol E planation:
Ensure that this device is disposed of properly. This product falls under the
WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive. The
requirements of this directive apply to all manufacturers and producers of
electronic devices in the EU. Do not throw this product away with regular
rubbish. Please contact your local authority for more information about how
to recycle and dispose of these products in your region. By recycling this
product in the proper manner, we can work together to ensure that we can
continue to enjoy these kinds of products and still protect the environment
as much as possible.
CE: The CE logo indicates that this product meets the European norms and
requirements to which it must legally conform.
Suitable for indoor use only: This product was designed for indoor use
only. The maximum environmental temperature must not exceed 40
degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
Contact:
Devine Pro udio Products
Verrijn Stuartweg 18
4462 GE Goes
The Netherlands
Please do not send any physical products to this correspondence address.
Should you wish to send a product for repairs or for a refund, please contact your retailer for
an RMA re uest (Return Merchandise Authorisation)
The information included in this user manual is subject to change at any time and without notification:
Version:
1.0
Date and author initials: 02-11-2020 RV Revision date and author initials: -

Using the VersaKey with Bitwig 8-Track
Every Devine VersaKey model has been scripted into the Bitwig 8-Track software, adding
them to a list of compatible hardware controllers. Simply select your EZ-Creator model
within the software and the device will immediately switch to the correct Bitwig operating
mode. This is so that you can control functions within the software using the controller, so
that you don’t need to map the controls manually, or learn anything about the more complex
features of MIDI.
P lease note that Bitwig does not support 32-bit systems.
The minimum system requirements are specified on the following web page:
www.bitwig.com/en/support/faq.html
Bitwig 8-Track and Bitwig Studio are products developed by Bitwig GmbH.
Bitwig 8-Track does not come with a physical installation CD or USB stick and can only be
installed via the Bitwig website. This guarantees that you only get the most recent version of
the software and that any subsequent updates can be freely downloaded following initial
installation.
The included Bitwig voucher can only be used to install Bitwig 8-Track and is registered by
name in the account that you will need to create when you register via the Bitwig website.
If you would prefer to use the VersaKey controller without Bitwig 8-Track, then the voucher
can be passed on to someone else. The Bitwig 8-Track voucher cannot be exchanged for
money, other Bitwig products, or other forms of credit.
If you do use the Bitwig 8-Track software and want to upgrade to the full version (Bitwig
Studio) at a later date, your copy of Bitwig 8-Track entitles you to a reduced upgrade tariff.
Bitwig Studio will offer all of the same functionality when used in combination with any of the
Devine VersaKey MIDI controllers.
Using the VersaKey Without Bitwig 8-Track
ny of the Devine VersaKey USB MIDI controllers can be used with software other than
Bitwig. Since MIDI devices are universal, it is possible to use almost any software that
supports MIDI over USB in combination with any of the VersaKey controller models.
Some software examples include:
- lighting software / DMX software
- laser software
- general production software from other developers
- podcasting and broadcasting software
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Version:
1.0
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- tablature software
- and more
Please note that, when using third-party software, settings may need to be changed to
ensure compatibility. lways read the applicable software instructions to be certain of this.
Compatibility with third-party software cannot be guaranteed.
lways check the system requirements of the software to be certain that your computer
meets the minimum recommended system requirements.
Using the VersaKey Series With and Without Bitwig
It is also possible to use the VersaKey Series controllers with Bitwig 8-Track before
changing to a different D W programme, other software, or another computer.
The information included in this user manual is subject to change at any time and without notification:
Version:
1.0
Date and author initials: 02-11-2020 RV Revision date and author initials: -

Product Features & Specifications
ll Devine VersaKey MIDI keyboards have a similar construction and functionality. The
difference between each model lies in the number of keys and the number of fitted
parameter buttons.
Below, an overview of the 61-key model has been included. Each of the other models
included in the VersaKey Series all offer similar features.
1. The Keyboard Section
The keyboard section of every VersaKey model is the same, whether fitted with 25, 49, 61,
or 88 keys. Simple or complex chords and melodies can be played on this MIDI keyboard,
just as you would with any normal piano or keyboard. These keys are velocity sensitive and
have an after-touch function that registers the pressure with which the key is held after it has
been initially struck.
2. Pitch Bend & Modulation
Every VersaKey model comes fitted with two touch strips on the left of the keyboard that can
be used to control Pitch Bend and Modulation.
By sliding a fingertip up or down the Pitch Bend touch strip, the pitch of a note or chord can
be smoothly ‘bent’ up or down to create a distinct effect.
The Modulation touch strip can be used to increase or reduce the intensity of an effect.
Unlike the Pitch Bend touch strip, there is no need to hold your fingertip against the strip.
The effect will stay at the same set intensity until the strip is touched again.
3. Transport Buttons
The transport button section provides all of the functions needed to quickly control a channel
or trigger recording controls within software, including ‘record start’ and ‘stop’, ‘playback’ and
‘stop’, ‘track rewind’, and so on.
Beneath the initial transport section is a separate set of buttons that offer quick access to
functions like MIDI channel selection, pitch per octave adjustment, and key touch sensitivity
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Version:
1.0
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1
2
3
4
56

adjustment depending on the selected preset.
4. LED Display
The LED display provides continuous information regarding the status of the last selected
function. For example, when adjusting a rotary encoder, the MIDI value will be displayed;
when selecting the MIDI channel, the channel number is displayed. Whenever a parameter
is being adjusted, the LED display will show any relevant information.
5. Endless Rotary Encoders
The endless rotary encoders are control knobs that adjust specific functions. Since these
encoders can be endlessly rotated, these controls are excellent for adjusting and fine-tuning
the most extensive functions. By rotating an encoder left or right, the signal is adjusted by +1
or -1, and the minimum or maximum possible values are determined by the specific
parameter being adjusted.
6. Drum & Performance Pads
The drum and performance pads are used to trigger and control drum machine samples or
effects, but since they are velocity sensitive, they can also be used for other functions. The
performance pads are LED backlit and the colour of the backlight can be customised.
7. E ternal Power Input
When any VersaKey MIDI keyboard is not
connected to a computer and USB powered
(for example, when using it as a secondary
‘analogue’ keyboard for gear like a
workstation, synth, or keyboard), an external
power supply can be connected.
The VersaKey can be powered by a universal
5V DC power supply with a centre-positive
pin connection.
8. USB-B Port
Using the USB-B port (and included USB
cable), the VersaKey can be connected to a
computer or laptop. It’s also possible
(providing that this is supported by the host) to connect the VersaKey to a smartphone or
tablet. If using the VersaKey as analogue hardware using the 5-pin MIDI port to send MIDI
signals to other MIDI-supporting hardware, then the USB-B port can also be used to power
the VersaKey by connecting the included USB cable to a USB charger or powerbank.
9. Pedal A & B Sockets
sustain or switch pedal can be connected to the VersaKey using the Pedal and B
sockets, so that something like a virtual acoustic piano in a D W plug-in can be played
much like a real piano. lmost any pedal fitted with a standard 6.35mm TS (mono) jack plug
can be connected.
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Version:
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7 8 9 9 10

The default setting for the Pedal socket is set up for a sustain pedal. The default setting for
the Pedal B socket is set up for an expression pedal.
10. 5-pin DIN MIDI Output
This output can be used to connect and control older, more standard MIDI hardware fitted
with a 5-pin DIN port. Synthesizers are often fitted with this kind of MIDI port. When setting
up the VersaKey in this way, make sure that it is USB powered (either with a USB charger or
USB powerbank) or powered by a 5V DC power supply.
System Requirements
So that your VersaKey model functions properly when connected to your computer or
laptop, the computer or laptop must meet the minimum system requirements. If your laptop
or computer does not meet the minimum system requirements, this may cause the
VersaKey to function incorrectly.
Windows Mac OS
Pentium 3 800 MHz or better
(laptop CPUs may require higher)
256 MB R M
DirectX 9.0b or better
Windows XP (Service Pack 2) or better
Windows 98, ME, NT and 2000 not
supported
Macintosh G3* 800/G4 733 MHz or better
(laptop CPUs may require higher)
OS X 10.3.9 with 256 MB R M,
OS X 10.4.2 or better with 512 MB R M
G3/G4 accelerator cards are not supported
lways check if any software and/or external equipment that you intend to use in
combination with the VersaKey specifies any minimum system requirements.
When powering the VersaKey via USB, it is recommended to connect it directly to the USB
port of your computer or laptop and avoid using any external USB hubs.
Basic Functionality
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Version:
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Connecting the VersaKey to a computer or laptop
The VersaKey should be automatically recognised as a generic MIDI input and output
device as soon as it is connected to a computer or laptop. If you’re using an application that
supports MIDI input, go to the settings and select the VersaKey as the MIDI INPUT device.
Connecting the VersaKey via analogue 5-pin DIN
Every VersaKey keyboard comes fitted with a 5-pin DIN port that supports a MIDI OUT
signal so that the VersaKey can also be used as a secondary keyboard for other keyboards
and workstations that support this, or to control a synthesizer module.
Powering the VersaKey
The VersaKey is powered via USB when connected to a laptop or computer. If you’re setting
the VersaKey for use without a laptop or computer, then a USB power supply can be used,
or a 5V DC power supply can be connected to the power input. This power supply must be
fitted with a centre-positive, 5.5mm x2.1mm DC plug and provide a minimum power of
500m at 5V DC.
Making Sound/Music with the VersaKey
MIDI keyboard like the VersaKey cannot produce sound on its own, but sends a specific
signal to another device or software to control the sounds that that device or software is able
to generate. This can be a software package or an external synthesizer.
Adjusting the Velocity
Whenever any key is struck, a specific ‘curve’ including information about the intensity of the
key-strike is sent to the software or external hardware being used. Since everyone’s playing
style is different, and you may already be used to a different key response, there are 6
different curves that can be selected. The 1st curve is the default setting.
To adjust the curve, simply follow these steps:
– Press the EDIT key
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Version:
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– Then press the VEL.CURVE key to approximate the velocity setting
– Turn the central transport knob to select a value between 01 and 06
– Press Enter to confirm the setting. The LED screen will now display the current curve
setting
Octave Function (pitch up/down)
Using the Octave function, the range of the keyboard can be shifted up or down by an entire
octave. This is so that, even when playing a keyboard with few keys, chords and melodies
can be played in a higher or lower octave.
Press the Octave button and then turn the transport section rotary knob to adjust the octave
value. The Octave value indicates an entire octave shift from min. -4 to max. +5. Press the
transport section rotary knob (the Enter button) to confirm the selection.
Transpose / X-Pose Function
It’s also possible to change the pitch of the keyboard by a semitone rather than a whole
octave. This works in much the same way as the Octave function. By pressing the
Transpose button, the transport section rotary knob can be used to set the value between
min. -12 semitones and max. +12 semitones.
Channel Function
With the Channel function, it’s possible to set up the VersaKey to send and/or receive via a
different MIDI channel. If you are using multiple MIDI devices, each with their own function,
then it’s necessary to set each of them up to send a MIDI signal via a different channel, so
that they cannot interfere with one another.
There are 16 channels to choose from. Channel 1 is the default channel. Changing the
channel is done in much the same way as the previously explained functions. Press the
Channel button and then use the transport section rotary knob to set the value between 1
and 16. Press Enter (press the rotary knob) to confirm the channel selection.
Program (MIDI Voice per Channel)
It’s possible to link a specific MIDI voice to the selected MIDI channel. Press the Program
button and the display screen will show the current voice-number. By turning the transport
section rotary knob, a voice-number between 00 and 127 can be selected. Confirm the
selection by pressing the Enter button (by pressing the rotary knob).
Program Bank (L/M)
Press the Edit key to activate multifunctional mode. Press the Bank L/M button to adjust the
voice bank of the current channel. This can be adjusted between values 00 and 127. The
default selection is 00. When reset, the current voice number is saved and shown on the
display.
MIDI Control Message
There are up to 135 different MIDI control messages used for the MIDI adjustable
parameters of software or hardware that supports MIDI. 0 to 127 are the standard MIDI
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Version:
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parameters, and 128 to 134 are special values. For example, these parameters can control
volume, pan, expression, reverb, chorus, and portamento, as long as the software and/or
hardware supports these kinds of functions.
ny of the VersaKey control elements is able to send each of the 128 MIDI messages as
needed, as long as the connected device is able to receive them. full list of these MIDI
messages can be found at the end of this user manual.
For example, if you want to use the Modulation touch-strip to control the reverb amount,
then you need to assign control 91 to the Modulation touch-strip.
Other common examples include:
Effect Control
Modulation 1
Volume 7
Pan 10
Expression 11
Reverb depth 91
Chorus depth 93
Programming the Controls
It’s possible to separately program the independent controls such as the rotary encoders,
buttons, and sliders. Normally, the most previously used control is selected for programming.
If you want to program a different control element, simply press the corresponding button or
turn the rotary knob to indicate that you want to program it.
Assignable Controls
Each VersaKey model includes a number of rotary encoders (knobs) and drum pads that
can be independently assigned a specific function.
Press the ssign button, then rotate the encoder you want to assign. The LED screen will
display the ‘control number’. Changing this number to the desired value will change the
function of the encoder. To confirm the selection, press the Enter button.
Pitch Bend & Modulation
By sliding a fingertip backwards or forwards along the Pitch Bend touch strip, the pitch of the
played note or chord will be adjusted. The range of the Pitch Bend touch-strip depends on
the selected preset.
This also applies to the Modulation touch-strip. The difference is that the Modulation touch-
strip controls the intensity of the modulation effect. The range of the Modulation touch-strip
is also dependent on the selected preset.
Assignable Pedals
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External pedals can be connected to any of the Versakey models. The default settings of the
fitted inputs are Sustain and Expression but this can be changed.
Press the ssign button, then press the connected pedal down once. The LED screen will
display the current selection and can be adjusted using the transport section rotary knob.
Press the Enter button to confirm and save the selection.
E tra Functions
ll of the Devine VersaKey models offer further functionality that is not necessarily required
to get the best out of the device, but can be useful if you want to use more advanced
functions.
Dual Mode
In Dual mode, the MIDI output can be used to send MIDI data via 2 channels. These
channels will both carry the same notes and values, but with different voices.
To activate Dual mode, press the Edit button, and then the Dual button. When Dual mode
has been activated, ‘ON will be displayed on the LED screen. The second voice and channel
can now be selected.
Dual and Split mode cannot be used at the same time. If Dual mode is ON, Split mode must
be OFF, and vice versa.
Split Mode
In Split mode, the keyboard is split into a left-side and right-side so that both sides can be
played as if there were more octaves (and the corresponding amount of keys) between the
two sides. Here, the voice and channel of each side can also be selected independently.
To activate Split mode, press the Edit button, then press the Split button. When Split mode
has been activated, ‘ON will be displayed on the LED screen. The right-side of the keyboard
can now be adjusted.
Dual and Split mode cannot be used at the same time. If Dual mode is ON, Split mode must
be OFF, and vice versa.
Split Point
While it’s useful to use Split mode to split the keyboard down the middle, it may be that only
a small part of the keyboard needs to be in a different octave or pitch. To do this, the Split
Point can be set.
The default Split Point is set to C/MIDI no.60. To change the Split Point, press the Edit
button, then press the Split button twice. The LED screen will then display the current Split
point. To change the Split Point, simply press the key at the point where you want the
keyboard to be split.
Mute
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While it doesn’t literally produce any sound itself, the MIDI data output of the VersaKey can
be interrupted, essentially muting the keyboard.
Press the Edit button and then press the Mute button. The LED screen will display ‘ON’ to
indicate that the Mute function has been activated. Repeat the process once more to disable
the Mute function.
GM ON
VersaKey keyboard models are able to send a General MIDI signal. This can be useful when
controlling older synthesizers. General MIDI signals are a kind of universal MIDI language
that calls up specific instruments that are always assigned the same numerical indicator, so
that the instrument sound always corresponds, no matter what hardware is being used.
Press the Edit button to activate multifunctional mode, then press the GM ON button. The
GM ON signal shall now be sent (F0 7E 7F 09 01 F7), and the LED screen will display
‘Done’
GS ON
Besides GM ON, there is the GS ON function. The Roland developed GS method is similar
to General MIDI (GM) but differs since it can call up a maximum of 255 variations per MIDI
instrument type. This makes specific instrument types more defined when generating notes.
lso, this method supports a high polyphony. The variations are only limited by the device
that is generating the sound.
To activate GS ON, press the Edit button to activate multifunctional mode, then press the
GS ON button. The GS ON signal shall now be sent (F0 41 10 42 12 40 00 7F 00 41 F7),
and the LED screen will display ‘Done’
XG ON
XG is a method developed by Yamaha and is similar to GS, but is even more refined. For
example, this method supports the addition of effects and increased polyphony.
To activate XG ON, press the Edit button to activate multifunctional mode, then press the
XG ON button. The XG ON signal shall now be sent (F0 43 10 4C 00 00 7E 00 F7), and the
LED screen will display ‘Done’
Reset
When many of the settings of the VersaKey have been changed and you would like to return
to all of the default factory settings, simply press the Edit button and then press the Reset
button. This will immediately restore all factory settings.
Snap Shot
Press the Edit button and then press the Snap Shot button to send a message containing all
user settings.
Pedal Polarity
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While the VersaKey Series models support the use of external pedals, many available
pedals send an open-signal by default or a closed-signal by default. Using software, it’s
possible to change the polarity so that the VersaKey provides the option of inverting the
incoming signal.
Press the Edit button then press the C Pedal Pol button to switch the polarity. This LED
screen will display ‘ON’ to confirm that the polarity has been switched. When active, this
function is applied to both pedal inputs at the same time. If one of the two connected pedals
is not having the desired effect, it’s usually also possible to invert the signal of the pedal via
a switch fitted on the pedal itself.
Shift Button Groups (1-8 / 9-16)
The rotary knobs and drum pads are divided into 2 groups in a kind of layer system. The
upper layer is active by default (1 to 8) and the lower layer (9 to 16) can be activated using
the Shift Button Group function.
Press the Edit button then press the Shift button to activate the lower layer.
Pad Options
The VersaKey Series models provide drum pads that can be used to perform functions like
controlling a software sampler. Because of how these pads work, they can also be ‘played’
in a much more expressive way than by simply shifting a fader or turning a knob. The more
pressure that is applied to a pad, the higher the MIDI value that is sent. Each drum pad can
control a specific MIDI function. Most software offers MIDI Learn functionality so that a
specific pad can be linked to a specific function with ease.
Pad Curve
The Pad curve determines how a pad reacts; the MIDI value sent, and the resulting output.
Just like the keys, the Pad curve is set using specific presets. The selected preset is applied
to every pad and cannot be selected per individual pad. The different Pad curves are
included below. Each has their own characteristic assent between the applied pressure and
the output value.
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Version:
1.0
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To change the velocity curve of the drum pads, press the Edit button and then press the Pad
Curve button. The LED screen will display the currently selected curve. The value can then
be adjusted between 01 and 06 using the transport section rotary knob. Confirm the
selection by pressing the Enter button.
Pad Note Setting
To specify the MIDI note sent by a specific pad, press the pad and then press the ssign
button. Then, using the transport section rotary knob, the MIDI note value can be selected.
Confirm the selection by pressing the Enter button. By doing this, a pad is able to control
parameters like the reverb intensity of a synthesizer depending on how hard the pad is
pressed.
Pad Colour Setting
The colour of the LED backlight of each pad can be changed for a custom set-up. The
smooth RGB colour mixing of the backlight LEDs can be used to create almost any colour
imaginable.
Press the Edit button so that the LED of the Edit button is lit. Then press one of the pads.
Use rotary knobs 1(R), 2(G), 3(B), to adjust the colour. While adjusting the colour, the RGB
values will be displayed. R1 = red, R2 = blue, and R3 = green. By adjusting the intensity of
each, you can create your own custom backlight colour.
Once satisfied with the colour, press the Enter button to confirm. The Edit button backlight
will then switch off.
Use the guide included below and the corresponding RGB values to quickly create common
colours.
Colour R G B Values
WIT 127 127 127
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BL CK 0 0 0
RED 127 0 0
GREEN 0 127 0
BLEU 0 0 127
CY N 0 127 127
M GENT 127 0 127
YELLOW 127 127 0
OR NGE 127 82 0
Transport Buttons / MMC / MIDI Machine Control
The transport section of the VersaKey include the following buttons:
[<<],[>>],[O],[stop],[play]
These buttons can be used to trigger specific recording controls via MIDI. The function of
these buttons will depend on whether or not the hardware or software being used is able to
support them. Using the included Bitwig software, every transport button can be used to
trigger the D W recording controls. But it is possible that these buttons will not function as
well when used in combination with other software.
E tra Information About GM, Bank & Program
Changes
The original GM MIDI specification was initially designed to allow Program Change access
to just 128 different sounds via specific identifying values (0-127). s MIDI equipment
became more advanced and able to produce more sounds, Bank Change messages were
added to the specifications to allow access to much more than 128 sounds. Each bank
has128 possible different sound patches that can be accessed using the standard Program
Change command. Using the more extensive 14-bit Bank Change command, 16,384 banks
are made available, each with 128 sound patches. Technically speaking, the first 7 bits of
the 14-bit Bank Change message is sent in a single bite known as the Bank LSB. The last 7
bits are known as the Bank MSB. The Bank LSB is the most used. This allows for 128 bank
transfers, and usually a Bank MSB is not needed.
You’ll notice that almost all MIDI equipment responds to Program Change commands and
many are organised according to the GM list. ll General MIDI equipment organises all of
the different sounds in the same way, so that, for example, the piano sounds are always
found in the same place, the strings are always found in the same place, the drum sounds
are always found in the same place, and so on. ll GM devices (including hardware as well
as software sound modules) are clearly labelled so that you’re aware that their sounds are
organised in the general GM MIDI structure. When a GM device receives a MIDI program
change command, it will call up the same sound as any other GM device: the expected
sound as specified by the GM list. The difference is that non-GM devices fed with the same
command, will call up an entirely different and unique sound. Since the sounds of non-GM
devices are not arranged in any specific order, you need to check the device itself to find the
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Version:
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location of the sound you’re looking for. Many VST instruments like Native Instruments FM7
or the synth modules included in Reason are non-GM devices, and therefore cannot call up
the correct sound according to the GM list.
Bank Change messages are useful for calling up sounds from the large library of a sound
module or software synth. Equipment that supports the Roland developed GS specification,
or the XG specification from Yamaha, for example, require a bank change before any of the
extra voices and effects they offer can be accessed. ll VersaKey models are able to send
program, bank, LSB, and Bank-MSB data.
The information included in this user manual is subject to change at any time and without notification:
Version:
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Date and author initials: 02-11-2020 RV Revision date and author initials: -

Specifications
General features:
– Functionally versatile MIDI-keyboards
– semi-weighted, velocity sensitive, full-size keys
– fitted with extra rotary encoders and drumpads
– fitted with two inputs for expression and sustain pedals
– compatible with hardware and software that supports MIDI input
– available as 4 different versions: 25, 49, 61 and 88 keys
– countless settings options for e.g. key and pad velocity, as well as MIDI messages per
control element
– supports control over hardware and software instruments that use GM, GS, or XG MIDI
– robust housing
– velocity and aftertouch functionality
– pitch and modulation touch-strips
– LED display for value monitoring
– transport control section with central rotary encoder
Model VersaKey 25 VersaKey 49 VersaKey 61 VersaKey 88
Number of keys 25 49 61 88
Number of rotary
encoders
4 8 8 8
Number of drum
pads
8 8 8 8
Connections:
– USB B 2.0 ports for connecting to a computer or laptop (hot-swappable)
– 5 V DC power supply input
– 2x 6.35mm TS jack socket, default set-up for sustain and expression pedal (switchable
polarity)
– 5-pin DIN MIDI output for controlling traditional synthesizers and sound modules
– can be used as a stand-alone device without a computer, as long as USB power or a 5V
DC power supply is connected
Included:
– Bitwig 8-Track voucher
– USB to USB B connecting cable
The information included in this user manual is subject to change at any time and without notification:
Version:
1.0
Date and author initials: 02-11-2020 RV Revision date and author initials: -