EMU ESI-32 User manual

Contents i
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Use in countries other than the U.S.A. may require the use of a different
line cord or attachment plug, or both. To reduce the risk of fire or
electric shock, refer servicing to qualified service personnel. To reduce
risk of fire or electric shock do not expose this product to rain or mois-
ture.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This product must be grounded. If it should malfunction or break down,
grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current, reduc-
ing the risk of electric shock. This product is equipped with a cord
having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The
plug must be plugged into an appropriate outlet properly installed and
grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
DANGER
Improper connection of equipment grounding conductor can result in
the risk of electric shock. Check with a qualified electrician or service
personnel if you are in doubt as to whether the product is properly
grounded. Do not modify the plug provided with this product. If it will
not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified technician.
CAUTION
If the 6200, ESI-32 is rack mounted, a standard 19 inch open frame rack
must be used.
USER-MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
1. The ESI-32 should be kept clean and dust free. Periodically wipe the
unit with a clean, lint free cloth. Do not use solvents or cleaners.
2. There are no user lubrication or adjustment requirements.
3. Refer all other servicing to qualified service personnel.
INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC
SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS
WARNING; When using electric products, basic precautions should
always be followed, including the following:
1. Read all instructions before using the ESI-32.
2. To reduce the risk of injury, close supervision is necessary when the
ESI-32 is used near children.
3. Do not use the ESI-32 near water — for example near a bathtub,
washbowl, kitchen sink, in a wet basement, on a wet bar, or near or
in a swimming pool.
4. The ESI-32 should be situated so that its location or position does
not interfere with its proper ventilation.
5. The ESI-32 should be located away from heat sources such as
radiators, heat registers, fireplaces, stoves, or ovens.
WARNING:
READ THIS
FIRST
This symbol is intended to alert the user to
the presence of important operating and
maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to
the presence of un-insulated dangerous
voltage within the product's enclosure that
may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons.

ii ESI-32 Operation Manual
6. The ESI-32 should only be connected to a power supply of the type
described in the operating instructions and as marked on the
product.
7. Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not
spilled into the enclosure of the ESI-32 through openings.
8. This ESI-32 may be equipped with a polarized line plug (one blade
wider that the other). This is a safety feature. If you are unable to
insert this plug into the outlet, do not defeat the safety purpose of
the plug. Contact an electrician to replace your obsolete outlet.
9. The power supply cord of the ESI-32 should be unplugged from the
outlet when left unused for a long period of time.
10. This product, in combination with an amplifier and headphones and
speakers, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause
permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for a long period of time at a
high volume level or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experi-
ence any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, consult an audiologist.
11. The product should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:
A. The power supply cord has been damaged; or
B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the product; or
C. The product has been exposed to rain; or
D. The product has been dropped or the enclosure damaged; or
E. The ESI-32 does not operate normally or exhibits a marked
change in performance.
12. All servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT REMOVE COVER.
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN

Contents iii
RADIO and TELEVISION INTERFERENCE
The equipment described in this manual generates and uses radio-
frequency energy. If it is not installed and used properly — that is, in
strict accordance with our instructions - it may cause interference with
radio and television reception.
This equipment has been tested and complies with the limits for a Class
A computing device in accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of
Part 15 of the FCC rules. These rules are designed to provide reasonable
protection against such interference in a residential installation. How-
ever, there is no guarantee that the interference will not occur in a
particular installation, especially if a “rabbit ear” TV antenna is used.
If the ESI-32 does cause interference to radio or television reception, you
can try to correct the interference by using one or more of the following
measures:
• Turn the television or radio antenna until the interference stops.
• Move the ESI-32 to one side or the other of the television or radio.
• Move the ESI-32 farther away from the television or radio.
• Plug the ESI-32 into an outlet on a different circuit than the
television or radio.
• Consider installing a rooftop antenna with a coaxial lead-in between
the antenna and television set.

iv ESI-32 Operation Manual

Contents v
Contents
1 General Instructions
Introduction ......................................................................................... 3
The ESI-32............................................................................................ 4
Connection Instructions ....................................................................... 6
Connection Diagram ............................................................................. 7
Connecting to an Unformatted Hard Disk ............................................ 9
Sampling Basics .................................................................................. 10
Definitions .......................................................................................... 11
Additional Definitions......................................................................... 15
2 Controls
Master Volume .................................................................................... 21
Data Entry Control ............................................................................. 21
Inc/Dec Buttons .................................................................................. 21
Ten Key Pad ........................................................................................ 21
Escape ................................................................................................ 21
Enter ................................................................................................... 21
Cursor/Page ........................................................................................ 22
Preset Selection ................................................................................... 22
Save Bank ........................................................................................... 23
Load Bank ........................................................................................... 23
Drive Select......................................................................................... 24
Audition ............................................................................................. 24
Trigger Mode ...................................................................................... 24
Multimode .......................................................................................... 25
Transpose............................................................................................ 25
3 Guided Tours
Tour 1: Basics...................................................................................... 29
Tour 2: The Current Sample & Current Zone ..................................... 33
Tour 3: Dynamic Processing................................................................ 35
Tour 4: Realtime Controls ................................................................... 42
Tour 5: Sampling ................................................................................ 45
Tour 6: Digital Processing ................................................................... 47
A Practice Sampling Session ......................................................... 48
Tour 7: Managing the Bank ................................................................. 54
Tour 8: On Your Own ......................................................................... 54

vi ESI-32 Operation Manual
The Modules
4 Master/Global
1. Master Tune .................................................................................... 57
2. Rename Bank .................................................................................. 57
3. Erase Bank ...................................................................................... 58
4. Dynamic Allocation ........................................................................ 58
5. Save as EIII Bank ............................................................................ 59
6. Memory Available ........................................................................... 60
7. Disk Utilities ................................................................................... 60
0. SCSI Setup ......................................................................... 61
1. Mount Drives ..................................................................... 62
2. Rename Disk Bank ............................................................. 62
3. Erase Disk Bank ................................................................. 63
4. Lock Bank & Drive ............................................................ 63
5. Disk Status ......................................................................... 64
6. Format Disk ....................................................................... 65
7. Backup ............................................................................... 67
8. Floppy Save in Version 1.04 ............................................... 69
8. Special ............................................................................................ 70
1. Recalibrate ......................................................................... 71
2. Contrast ............................................................................. 71
3. Headroom .......................................................................... 72
4. Main Output Format .......................................................... 73
5. Software Version ................................................................ 73
6. View Channels ................................................................... 74
7. Trigger Buttons ................................................................... 74
8. RAM Test............................................................................ 75
9. MIDI .............................................................................................. 76
1. MIDI Mix ........................................................................... 77
2. MIDI Globals ..................................................................... 78
Basic Channel ...................................................................... 78
MIDI Mode .......................................................................... 78
Continuous Controller Assignment....................................... 79
3. MIDI Load Bank ................................................................. 81
4. MIDI Volume Pedal ............................................................ 81
5. MIDI Volume/Pan............................................................... 82
6. Multimode Enable .............................................................. 82
0. Import Options............................................................................... 83
0. Akai Import........................................................................ 83
1. Emax II Import .................................................................. 89

Contents vii
5 Sample Management
0. Select Sample .................................................................................. 95
1. Load Sample ................................................................................... 95
2. Rename Sample .............................................................................. 96
3. Erase Sample .................................................................................. 97
4. Copy Sample .................................................................................. 98
5. Setup .............................................................................................. 99
6. Place Sample ................................................................................. 101
7. Arm Sampling ............................................................................... 102
8. Force Sampling ............................................................................. 102
9. MIDI Sample Dump...................................................................... 103
6 Preset Management
1. Load Preset ................................................................................... 107
2. Rename Preset .............................................................................. 108
3. Erase Preset................................................................................... 109
4. Copy Preset .................................................................................. 109
5. Create Preset ................................................................................. 110
6. Preset Size ..................................................................................... 111
7. Merge Presets ................................................................................ 111
7 Digital Processing
Background ...................................................................................... 115
0. Select Sample ................................................................................ 121
1. Setup ............................................................................................ 121
2. Loop ............................................................................................ 122
3. Truncation .................................................................................... 125
4. Copy Region ................................................................................. 125
5. Cut Region.................................................................................... 127
6. Paste Region ................................................................................. 128
7. Digital Tools I ............................................................................... 131
0. Sample Calculator .............................................................. 131
1. Taper .................................................................................. 132
2. Gain Change ...................................................................... 133
3. Reverse Section .................................................................. 135
4. Stereo <-> Mono ................................................................ 135
5. Left <-> Right ..................................................................... 136
6. DC Filter ............................................................................ 136
7. Sample Integrity ................................................................. 137
8. Digital Tools II .............................................................................. 138
0. Sample Rate Convert .......................................................... 139
1. Digital Tuning .................................................................... 140
2. Compressor ........................................................................ 141
3. Parametric Equalizer .......................................................... 145
4. Time Compression ............................................................. 146

viii ESI-32 Operation Manual
5. Pitch Change ...................................................................... 147
6. Transform Multiplication.................................................... 148
7. Doppler/Pan ....................................................................... 149
9. Undo ............................................................................................ 155
8 Preset Definition
0. Realtime Controls ......................................................................... 159
1. Load Zone..................................................................................... 164
2. Edit Assignment............................................................................ 167
3. Erase Zone .................................................................................... 170
4. Copy Zone .................................................................................... 171
5. Crossfade/Switch .......................................................................... 174
6. Velocity Switch/Preset Link ........................................................... 177
8. Pitch Bend Range .......................................................................... 177
9. Portamento/Attack ........................................................................ 178
9 Dynamic Processing
Background ...................................................................................... 181
0. Select Zone ................................................................................... 183
1. Setup ............................................................................................ 184
2. VCA .............................................................................................. 185
3. VCF .............................................................................................. 187
4. LFO .............................................................................................. 189
5. Auxiliary Envelope ....................................................................... 191
6. Velocity To .................................................................................... 192
7. Keyboard Mode ............................................................................ 195
8. Realtime Control Enable ............................................................... 196
9. Output Channels .......................................................................... 197
10 Appendix
Using SCSI........................................................................................ 201
Disk Drive Compatibility Chart ........................................................ 205
Digital Interface ................................................................................ 206
Keyboard Character Chart ................................................................ 207
ESI-32 Menu Map ............................................................................. 208
MIDI Key Numbers .......................................................................... 209
MIDI Implementation Chart ............................................................. 210
Specifications .................................................................................... 211
Error Codes ...................................................................................... 212
Troubleshooting ................................................................................ 214
Warranty ........................................................................................... 218
Index ................................................................................................ 219

Intro/Basic Setup 1
1 General Instructions
Introduction ............................. 3
The ESI-32 ............................... 4
Connection Instructions .......... 8
Connection Diagram ................ 7
Connecting to a Hard Disk ...... 9
Sampling Basics ..................... 10
Definitions ............................. 11
Additional Definitions ........... 15

2ESI-32 Operation Manual

Intro/Basic Setup 3
Introduction Welcome to the ESI-32 Digital Sampling System. Congratulations are
definitely in order! The many functions of the ESI-32 are detailed in this
manual by their module. Screen displays and step-by-step instructions
are described for all aspects of use and operation. Sidebars are used to
highlight important points or to give useful operational tips which might
not be readily apparent.
If you are totally unfamiliar with samplers and synthesizers in general,
you may need more information than this manual provides. We suggest
that you read some of the many books and magazines on the subject of
music synthesis. This will help you to get the most out of this extremely
powerful instrument.
We encourage you to take a moment now to read the E-mu Systems
warranty and to fill out and send in your warranty registration card. By
doing so, you are assured of receiving news of all updates and manual
revisions.

4ESI-32 Operation Manual
The ESI-32
The ESI-32 is the latest in the long line of high quality and affordable
E-mu sampling products. The ESI-32 features 22.05 kHz and 44.1 kHz
sampling rates and 16-bit resolution for CD quality sound. Sampling can
be performed in either mono or true stereo. A unique feature of the
ESI-32 is that full 16 channel polyphony is maintained when stereo
samples are utilized. The user-upgradable memory can be expanded to a
maximum of 32 Mbytes using standard SIMM modules (Details and
installation are available at your E-mu dealer).
The ESI-32 has full access to the huge library of sounds available from
E-mu and other sources. It is fully compatible with the legendary EIII
and EIIIX libraries, and can import Emax II and Akai S1000/S1100
banks. In many cases, the ESI-32 can import and convert programs
faster than the source unit!
The advanced features of the ESI-32 make sampling easy. Samples can
be automatically truncated, normalized and placed on the keyboard as
the sample is taken. The ESI-32 contains advanced tools such as Auto
Correlation, Loop Compression and Crossfade Looping which allow
even the most difficult sounds to be easily looped.
Samples can be digitally spliced and mixed with other samples, and
dynamically controlled from the keyboard using velocity and positional
crossfading and switching functions. Advanced digital processing
features such as Sample Rate Conversion, Compressor, Digital Paramet-
ric Equalizer and Digital Tuning allow you to shape raw samples more
quickly and with greater precision than computer based systems.
Additional digital processing functions include: Time Compression and
Expansion, which shorten or lengthen the time of samples without
changing the pitch; and Doppler/Pan, which allows you to move
samples forward and backwards in space as well as from side to side.
The ESI-32 contains 32 “analog-sounding” 24 dB/octave lowpass filters
with resonance. Modulation sources include three AHDSR envelope
generators and a multi-wave LFO per channel, as well as full MIDI
modulation control over virtually every parameter.
The ESI-32's unique Trigger Mode allows up to ten different samples to
be triggered from the front panel without connecting a keyboard,
making it an ideal tool for “house” or “hip-hop” music.
I
VOLUME
O
TRANSPOSE DIGITAL PROCESSINGSAMPLE MANAGEMENT
SAMPLE
PRESET
MASTER/GLOBAL
MULTIMODE PRESET MANAGEMENT DYNAMIC PROCESINGPRESET DEFINITION
DRIVE SELECT LOAD SAVE AUDITION TRIGGER MODE ESCAPE
MIDI
ENTER
DEC/NO
INC/YES ABC
JKL
TUV
DEF
MNO
WXY
QZ
GHI
PRS
MIDI Channel: 01
Volume: | 115
Pan : +01
000 Synth Flute
TRIGGERS
123
456
789
0

Intro/Basic Setup 5
The ESI-32 is 16 part multi-timbral allowing complex sequencing and
sound effects creation.
Four polyphonic audio outputs with integral submix returns allow you
to separately process certain sounds and return them to the main
outputs without using up precious mixer channels.
The ESI-32 can access up to 999 samples per bank arranged in up to
256 presets. The integral 3.5" floppy disk drive provides a convenient
means of storing and loading banks. A built-in SCSI interface provides
access to high density media such as hard disks, magneto-optical disks
or CD ROM.
A digital interface (S/PDIF) is an available option which facilitates the
transfer of stereo digital audio between digital recorders, mixers, etc.
In developing the ESI-32, we have retained the logical and easy-to-use
interface of the industry-proven EIIIX and enhanced it with our state-of-
the-art G-chip and H-chip hardware. The G-chip allows smooth sample
transposition over a ten octave range while the H-chips retain the warm
character of analog filters.
The ESI-32 is an extremely powerful and reliable, sixth generation
instrument. We at E-mu Systems sincerely hope it will help you realize
and further your musical dreams.

6ESI-32 Operation Manual
Connecting to a Mixer
Main Outputs: The ESI-32 has provisions for a variety of output con-
nection schemes. The most common hookup will probably be using the
main stereo outputs. Output level is -10 dBm (approximately 1-2 volts
RMS). Output impedance is 1K ohm.
Submix Outputs/Mix In: In addition to the main stereo outputs, the
ESI-32 has an additional pair of submix outputs which can be used
when individual processing on specific instruments is desired. Any
combination of channels can be programmed to appear at the submix
output pair. Any keyboard zone (key range) can also be assigned to the
submix pair using the Output Channel function in the Dynamic Process-
ing module. MIDI channels can be assigned to the submix pair using the
Multimode Mix function in the Master/Global module.
✱
Tip: Inserting a standard mono plug
halfway into either of the sub output jacks
allows you to sum into the main outputs
without a special cable. This is a handy
feature for those times when you run out of
mixer channels.
Sub Output
Return
(To Main Output)
Tip Ring
To Effect From Effect
SEND/RETURN CABLES
The Submix Outputs are stereo jacks with -10 dBm outputs on the tip of
the jack. Output impedance is 1K ohm. The ring of each submix jack is
a return input to the main outputs. By using a special cable shown
above, specific presets or MIDI channels can be externally processed and
then returned to the main mix.
Stereo Headphone Output: The headphone output is located on the left
side of the front panel and is capable of driving all types of stereo
headphones. The output level is controlled by the master volume
control.
Sample Inputs
The two sample input jacks accept any low to high level input (micro-
phone to line level). Input impedance is 10K. The gain of the sample
input preamplifier is controlled from the setup screen in the Sample
Management module. When in the Sample Management module the
sample inputs can be monitored from the main outputs or the head-
phone jack.
✱
Tip: The submix outputs use a “plug
sensing” scheme which re-routes the signal
to the main outputs if a plug is not inserted.

Intro/Basic Setup 7
Connection Diagram
MIDI In
SCSI
MIDI Controller
(MIDI Keyboard, Sequencer, etc.)
MIDI Out
Additional
MIDI
Devices
Mic or Line Inputs
MIDI In
Mains
Submix Out/Mix In
Power
Cord
Power Amp
Mixer
DAT Recorder, etc.
Digital Input Device
SCSI
SCSI Device
60 mS
Digital Effect Device
Digital I/O
To Digital Mixer, DAT, etc.
Other
Sampler
Computer
IN OUT
MIDI In

8ESI-32 Operation Manual
MIDI Connection
ESI-32 provides a MIDI IN, a MIDI OUT and a MIDI THRU port.
• The MIDI IN port connects to the MIDI OUT port of an external
MIDI controller which could be a keyboard, a sequencer, MIDI
drum kit or whatever. Note that the ESI-32 can only respond to
information that your controller transmits. If your MIDI keyboard
does not have velocity and pressure sensitivity, the ESI-32 will not
respond to velocity and pressure.
• MIDI OUT can be connected to another MIDI instrument or
computer. The MIDI OUT jack is used to transmit MIDI sample
dump information (transfers sample data).
• MIDI THRU simply re-transmits any information received at the
MIDI IN port. Use cords that have been designed specifically for
MIDI. While regular 5 pin DIN cords may work, they are not
shielded correctly for MIDI use and may cause ground loops
between equipment.
110V / 220V Operation
The ESI-32 may be used in either 110 volt or 220 volt environments at
either 50 Hz or 60 Hz. No change of voltage settings is required. The
ESI-32 automatically switches itself for 110 or 220 volt operation.
Digital I/O
The optional digital interface allows the ESI-32 to transfer digital audio
back and forth with other digital devices equipped with S/PDIF digital
I/O. Keeping the signal in the digital domain is desirable to keep the
signal to noise level as high as possible.
The digital input allows you to sample directly from a DAT recorder or
other digital device. The digital output reflects the data at the stereo
outputs of the ESI-32. See the Sample Management module and Main
Output Format (located under Special in the Master/Global menu) for
more information.
SCSI
The SCSI connector is a high-speed parallel interface which is used to
interface the ESI-32 with internal or external mass storage devices such
as hard disks or magneto-optical discs. The SCSI port can also be used
to link the ESI-32 with an external computer for extremely fast file
transfers. The ESI-32 also supports SMDI (SCSI Musical Data Inter-
change protocol) which allows transfer of samples over SCSI.
• If you plan on expanding the memory beyond 2 MB, a mass storage
device is almost a necessity. When dealing with large banks of up to
32 MB, a floppy disk drive simply doesn't cut it even for back-up. A
hard disk is an absolute must! Furthermore, the extremely useful
“Undo” function will not work without a hard drive attached.
For more information on SCSI installation, see, “Using SCSI” in the
Appendix of this manual. Also refer to the manual that accompanies
your external SCSI device.

Intro/Basic Setup 9
This initial setup section contains step-by-step instructions on how to
connect the ESI-32 to a SCSI device.
Connecting the ESI-32 to an External, Unformatted Hard Disk
1. Position the SCSI device and the ESI-32 in a stable location. Hard
disk drives are particularly susceptible to shock and vibration. Make
sure that you position your hard disk where it won't be bumped or
moved while in use.
2. Important: Make sure that all power to the ESI-32 and the SCSI
device is turned OFF.
3. Connect the SCSI device to your ESI-32 using a quality SCSI cable.
Make sure that the connectors are firmly mated and that the wire
“keepers” are locked in place. There are two type of SCSI cables in
common use: the 50-pin Centronics type and the 25-pin DB connec-
tor type. The ESI-32 uses the Centronics type connector. If your
external SCSI device uses the DB connector you can use an adaptor
cable to eliminate the mismatch.
4. Set the SCSI ID of your external SCSI device to any number other
than 5. (5 is the default ID of the ESI-32). Consult the operation
manual of your SCSI device for this procedure.
5. Turn on the external SCSI device.
6. Apply power to the ESI-32. The ESI-32 should power up normally.
7. Make sure your hard disk really is unformatted. Formatting a hard
disk erases all the data on it. Press the Load button. If the display
reads, “No Valid Drives” the drive isn't formatted. Continue on to
step eight.
8. Format the hard disk. Press the Master/Global button, then 7, 6 on
the numeric keypad. The display should read, “FORMAT DISK”. Use
the data entry control to select your hard disk, then press ENTER.
The display asks, “Are You Sure?” Press the Inc/Yes button to con-
firm. Formatting takes a few minutes. Time to take a break.
!Caution: NEVER connect or disconnect
the SCSI cable while power is applied to
either the ESI-32 or the SCSI device. Doing
so may cause serious damage.
✱
Tip: Use the “Mount Drives” utility
(Master/Global, Disk Utilities, 1) whenever
an external SCSI device does not appear in
the list of available devices.

10 ESI-32 Operation Manual
Sampling
Basics
Percussive Voice
1 second
Each vertical line
represents a sample.
Each sample takes
a "snapshot" of the
instantaneous signal level.
Throughout this manual we will use the terms and concepts described
and defined below. Read through this section carefully, even if you don’t
retain it all. You can refer back periodically as you read through the
manual until you understand the basics and definitions.
The ESI-32 is conceptually like a tape recorder. However, the recording
process is very different since the ESI-32 digitally records into its com-
puter memory. Sounds for the ESI-32 can be loaded via removable-
media hard disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM using the SCSI
interface; or through the S/PDIF Digital interface; or even through the
MIDI interface using MIDI Sample Dump.
Computers can accept information only in the form of numbers, so the
ESI-32 accepts audio signals coded into binary numbers. Samplers work
by examining (sampling) the incoming signal level at a very high rate
(44,100 times a second for compact discs), and sequentially recording
these different levels in memory. Once stored, these samples may be
played back (in the proper sequence, of course) to reconstruct the
original signal. For instance, if a two-second sound was being sampled at
44.1 kHz, it would require (2 X 44,100) or 88,200 samples to be
recorded. As you might imagine, shorter sounds require fewer samples.
A sound can be manipulated once it has been recorded. Playing back the
samples in reverse order from which they were stored plays the sound
backwards. Playing back the samples at a faster rate than the rate at
which they were stored raises the pitch. Playing back at a slower rate
lowers the pitch, much like a tape recorder’s variable speed control.
DIGITAL SAMPLING The signal is repeatedly measured at a high rate and the measurements are
stored in digital memory. Upon playback, the measurements are converted back into voltages to
reconstruct the original waveform.

Intro/Basic Setup 11
How the ESI-32 Organizes Sounds
Sure, you’re anxious to start coaxing wonderful sounds from the instru-
ment—but the following is a necessary part of learning how to play the
ESI-32. It is important to understand how the ESI-32 organizes sounds
in order to make best use of the instrument in the shortest possible time.
Many terms will be introduced now that show up later in the manual.
You can think of the ESI-32 as resembling a collection of sound-organiz-
ing modules, all contained within an the ESI-32 bank. Pathways indicate
how information flows within the ESI-32. Let’s take a closer look at what
makes up this information, and how it is transferred from one section of
the instrument to another. We’ll start with individual samples, then work
our way through the system.
The Sample
Loading in any sound in mono or stereo creates a sample, the raw
material with which the ESI-32 works. The total available sampling time
can be divided up any way you like—one long sample, lots of short
samples, a few medium samples, or any combination thereof.
The term sample commonly means two different things:
1. A digital recording of a complete sound, or
2. Each snapshot of the sound that makes up the complete sample.
Confusing? You bet! In this manual, we’ll assume sample means the
complete recorded sound unless indicated otherwise.
You can modify a raw sample in several ways:
• Transposition: A sample can be transposed up or down in pitch to
cover a particular range of the keyboard. By doing this, it is not
necessary to record a sample for every key.
• Digital Processing: In the ESI-32, Digital Processing might consist of
Looping a sample (allowing even short samples to play indefinitely),
Truncating (cutting off unneeded parts of a sample, thus saving
memory), or any of a number of digital processes that actually
change the raw sample data.
• Dynamic Processing: Just as synthesizers include signal processors
(filter, voltage-controlled amplifier, envelope generators, LFO, and
so on) to modify the sounds produced by the synth’s oscillators, the
ESI-32 includes similar modules for modifying the sound of samples
or combinations of samples.
The Preset
As mentioned above, a sample can be assigned to a single note on the
keyboard, or transposed polyphonically to cover a wider keyboard
range. A preset is one entire keyboard setup. The process of assigning,
and optionally transposing, samples to specific ranges of the keyboard is
called making a preset. Making a preset is a three-step process:
Definitions

12 ESI-32 Operation Manual
1. Create the preset and give it a number and name. The bank can
hold up to 256 Presets (000-255).
2. Place samples to different keyboard ranges. For example, with
five samples you could assign each sample to cover one octave of a
five octave keyboard. A sample can be assigned more than once
within a given preset, and assigned to more than one preset.
3. Choose from a number of available options that further define
the preset. Some examples are: assigning samples to partially or
fully overlap other samples, thus producing doubling effects, or
assigning dynamic control to individual samples in a preset. You can
modify zone parameters, and set up MIDI and dynamic processing
parameters.
The Zone
A particular range of the keyboard is called a zone. This zone can
include one or more samples and the zone’s boundaries need not be the
same as the boundaries of the samples contained in the zone. Zones free
you from having to think about where the actual samples are assigned.
You just select a range of keyboard (a zone) and go!
Entire
Kybd
ZONE
Any
Range
= (Keyboard Range)
As an example, suppose you wanted to set the velocity response for the
entire keyboard. You would first select the zone range by playing the
lowest and highest keys when prompted by the ESI-32. Next you would
set the velocity response (in the Dynamic Processing module). Done.
Now, suppose you wanted just the lower half of the keyboard to have
increased velocity response. You would simply select a zone for the
lower half of the keyboard, then change the velocity settings as desired.
Sample 01
Fc
Secondary Samples
Primary Samples
Vel -> Level
Tuning
Pan
Sample 02 Sample 03 Sample 04
Sample 05 Sample 06 Sample 07 Sample 08
= Copied Zone