Korg M1R User manual

Mustc Workstation
MIR
OWNER^S MANUAL
^^^3^ AI Synthesis System

Congratulations and thank youfor purchasing the Korg Music Work Station MIR. Please read this manual
carefully to obtain optimum performance and help assure long term reliability.
PRECAUTIONS
ENVIRONMENT
Avoid using this unit in environments where it will be exposed to the following conditions:
*Direct sunlight
*High temperature or humidity
*Dust or sand
*Excessive vibration
POWER SUPPLY
Use this unit only with the rated AC voltage. If you intend to use this unit in areas where the voltage is different
from the rated AC voltage, consult your KORG dealer about asuitable voltage transformer unit.
INTERFERENCE WITH OTHER APPLIANCES
This unit uses microprocessor circuitry that may cause interference with nearby radio or TV receivers. If
problems occur, use at agreater distance from the radio or TV.
HANDLE GENTLY
Although this unit is designed and constructed to KORG's high standards, the use of excessive force may cause
damage to its keys and knobs.
CLEANING
Use only asoft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of this unit. Never use benzene, volatile cleaners or solvents,
polish or cleaning compounds.
WARRANTY PROCEDURE
The product warranty ensures that all repairs conducted within one year from the day of purchase are free of
charge, but if the necessary steps were not taken in filling out the warranty card at the time of purchase, portions
or all of the warranty may be invalid. Make certain to fill out the warranty card completely at the store where
the instrument was purchased and keep the card in asafe place.
OWNER'S MANUAL
TheMlR is asophisticated digital music device with many "functions. Therefore, we suggest that you keep this
manual handy at all times, for reference.
1

CONTENTS
Precautions 1
Front/Rear Panels -4
BASIC OPERATION ^
Structure of the MIR -6
AI Synthesis <•-6
Keys &controls 5
Setting Up 1
1
How to Play Combinations 1
1
How to Play Programs 12
How to Operate the Sequencer -14
How to Record with the Sequencer ^4
Sound Making Process 15
Internal Memory Allocation 16
Memory Card Format 16
MODES &FUNCTIONS 17
How to Read the Display Page Chart i7
1-PROGRAM MODE 18
Editing in the Program Mode -18
2-EDIT PROGRAM MODE 20
Structure of the MlR's Program Parameters -20
Functions in the Edit Program Mode 21
Editing in the Edit Program Mode 22
3-EFFECT PARAMETERS 36
Effect Placement -36
Names of the Effect Types and an Outline of their Parameters 40
Reverb 40
Early Reflection 41
Delay 42
Chorus 43
Flanger 44
Phase Shift 45
Tremolo 46
Equalizer 47
Overdrive 48
Exciter... 49
Ensemble 49
Rotary Speaker 50
Combination Type Effects 50
Effect Parameters Default Values Chart 56
4-COMBINATION MODE 58
Editing in the Combination Mode 58
5-EDIT COMBINATION MODE 61
Combination Types 61
Common Functions of Each Combination Type 62
Single Type Functions 65
Layer Type Functions 66
2

Split Type Functions 68
Velocity Switch Type Functions 70
Multi Type Functions 72
6-SEQUENCER MODE 79
Structure of Songs 79
Structure of Patterns 80
Editing Sequencer Data 80
Functions of Sequencer Mode 81
Play ,:82
Starting Play from Midway Point of Song 52
Real Time Recording 83
Punch In Recording 83
Multi Channel Recording 85
Step Recording 88
Song Initialize 91
Track Copy 93
Track Bounce 93
Track Erase 94
Put/Copy Pattern 94
Measure Copy 95
Measure Insert 96
Measure Delete 96
Measure Erase 97
Quantize 98
Pattern Real Time Recording 99
Pattern Step Recording 100
Get Pattern 101
Pattern Copy 102
Pattern Bounce 102
Editing Event 103
7-GLOBAL MODE 110
Functions in the Global Mode 110
MIDI SYSTEM EXCLUSIVE .122
ERROR MESSAGES _...132
SPECIFICATIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION 134
Specifications 134
MIDI Implementation 135
3

FRONT/REAR PANELS
FRONT PANEL
(See the KEYS AND CONTROLS section, p.9 for explanations on each key and control.)
®(D (D
COMB I100 Bases ingle Pro9rap\
101 E.Bass Level =99
I
(D (7)
D C D()()CUD <>()C
DOWN !iUP
(D (D
COMBI EDIT COMBI
!(
1C
•PROG EDIT PROG
1r
'START/STOP IrREC COMPARE ,[BANK HOLD
:i!i r~)
MIR
IMUSIC WORKSTATION II1
1
(Q) dD (9) (0) ®dD
KORG
(1) PROG/SEQ DATA slot
Only cards that are stored or will be stored with Program (sound
color) and sequencer data should be inserted here. Remember that
the PCM (Multisound) data card should be inserted in the PCM
data slot on the front panel.
PCM DATA slot
(2) Only cards that are stored with PCM (Multisound) data should be
inserted here. Do not insert the Program/sequence data cards here.
(3) MASTER VOLUME
(4) PHONES jack
For connection of astereo headphone set. The outputs of
OUTPUT 1/L and 2/R can be monitored.
(5) Display
REAR PANEL
-ACV
(6) MIDI indicator
This lights up when MIDI signals are being received.
(7) CONTRAST dial
This controls the brightness of the display on the front panel.
Turning the dial clockwise darkens the characters on the display
and turning it counterclockwise lightens them.
(8) Cursor keys (A-H)
(9) PAGE +/-keys
(10) UP (A)/DOWN () keys
(11) VALUE Dial
(12) INT key/CARD key
®(D (D
KORG
MODEL MIR
SERIAL NO.
AC 100 y50/60 Hz 13 W
HO cuMttwrtt IS wwjta wHm ma ouisoi j«mn
THRU
(1) MIDI THRU jack
(2) MIDI OUTjack
(3) MIDIINjack
(13) Mode Select keys
COMBI =COMBINATION Mode
EDIT COMBI =EDIT COMBINATION Mode
PROG =PROGRAM Mode
EDIT PROG =EDIT PROGRAM Mode
SEQ =SEQUENCER Mode
GLOBAL =GLOBAL Mode
(14) START/STOP keys
(15) RECkey
(16) Numeric keypad (0-9)
(4) (D
(17) COMPARE key
(18) BANK HOLD key
2/R 1/L
ASS. PEDAUSW OUTPUT
(4) ASS. PEDAL/SW jacks (1,2)
For connection of pedal and footswitches. Assigning parameters
to be controlled by the switches is done in the GLOBAL Mode»
Function F2-1.
(5) OUTPUT jacks (1/L, 2/R, 3, 4)
These are the MlR's voice output jacks. The assignment of
voices to the desired jacks is done in each of the Effect
Parameters sections of the EDIT PROGRAM, EDIT
COMBINATION and SEQUENCER Modes.
45

BASIC OPERATION
STRUCTURE OF THE MIR
4-Channel Digital Audio Signal (internal routing) 4-Channel Audio Output
SYNTHESIZER
SECTION
Maximum of 8Programs
(sound colors), 16 voices
A
B
c
D
EFFECT SECTION 1/L
Dual system stereo effects 2/R
3
4
8-Channel Sequencer Play Data
SEQUENCER SECTION
8tracks
AI SYNTHESIS SYSTEM
The AI (Advanced Integrated) synthesis system of the MlRmakes it possible to combine all various sound types
—from conventional synthesizer sounds to sampled sounds and drum sounds.
For sampled sounds, the large-capacity PCM data memory of 16 bit x2mega-words, far greater than that of
conventional samplers, has been utilized, and acarefully selected group of Multisounds (a sound whose original
wave shape has been multi-sampled^) has been installed.
2
For its synthesizer sounds, not only the D.W.G.S. waveforms ,which are produced by aprocess much the same
as that of an analog synthesizer, but also aperiodic or irregular waveforms created by extraction of harmonically
unrelated frequency components^ are part of the MlR's structure. As aresult, creation of new and unique sounds
beyond the existing limitations of the conventional synthesizer is possible.
Processing any of the programs or individual sounds with the use of VDFs (Variable Digital Filter) and VDAs
(Variable Digital Amplifier) is, of course, possible. Moreover, different effects can be assigned to specific
programs in aconfiguration of 2systems and 2channels through the MlR's MDE (Multi Digital Effect) feature
when playing Multisounds. With the use of these functions, total control over all aspects of sound creation,
including effects, is possible.
^Multi Sampling
The harmonic structure and overtones present in high pitched sounds usually differs from that of low pitched
sounds, even in the same musical instrument. Multi Sampling is amethod to recreate those characteristics by
sampling an instrument repeatedly over arange of many octaves.
^P.W.G.S. (Digital W^vefqrm Generator System) Waveform Data
The instrument sound is reproduced by the following process: Computer analysis determines the frequency
components of the sampled instrument sound and reproduces them by creating aharmonic table for them as is
done in additive synthesis.
^Extraction of Harmonically Unrelated fiequenpy Compoi^entg
Separates the aperiodic and harmonically unrelated components characteristic of such sounds as objects being
hit or scraped from the sampled wave shapes.
6

nMULTISOUND-
(Original Sound Waveforms)
The oscillator (OSC) is selected from
the Multisound (00 to 99).
•Multisounds can be selected from
the PCM card.
•See EDIT PROGRAM mode, R)-2
for more details.
An original program can be created
by performing various processes to the
Multisound.
•The VDF (Variable Digital Filter)
controls the sound color.
•The VDA (Variable Digital
Amplifier) controls the sound
volume.
•These processes are done in the
EDIT PROGRAM Mode.
rINSTRUMENT SETTINGS-
DRUM KIT
Assigns drum sounds to the keys.
Example:
©@©
1BASS DRUM 1
2SNARE 1
3HXTOM
4CLOSED HI HAT
5OPEN HI HAT
6CRASH CYMBAL 1
7RIDE CYMBAL 1
8HANDCLAPS
9HI CONGA (MUTED)
10 LO BONGO
11 BASS DRUM 2
12 SNARE 2
13 MID TOM
14 LOTOM
15 CLOSED HI HAT
16 PICCOLO SNARE 1
17 PICCOLO SNARE 2
18 CRASil CYMBAL 2
19 RIDE CYMBAL 2
20 HI CONGA (OPEN)
21 LO CONGA (MUTED)
22 mBONGO
Instrument settings, including pan,
are edited in the GLOBAL Mode.
nPROGRAM MODE
Single
The work "Program" as referred to in this manual is synonymous with "sound
color" or "preset voice" in other synthesizers.
Program numbers available for selection are from 00 to 99. (Selection from
only 00 to 49 is possible when large sequence allocation is selected.)
The EDIT PROGRAM Mode
can be used for making
settings up to this point.
OUTPUT
©El'
Double
OSC1 VDF VDA
0SC2 VDF VDA )
©
®
Drum Kit
Choose from 4different
instrument settings.
The pan setting of the
Drum Kit, which is set
in the GLOBAL Mode,
has priority.
DRMS
VDF VDA r- COMBINATION MODE-
Combination numbers available for
from only 00 to 49 is possible when
Program changes received via MIDI
Combination.
Layer SElit
•The word "Combination" as referred to
in this manual means two or more
programs that have been grouped
together for simultaneous play,
selection are from 00 to 99. (Selection
large sequence allocation is selected.)
in the COMBINATION Mode change the
When Layer or Split are used:
OUTPUT
Timbre
Combination
/ff/ m\\/ffl T!^\\ When Multi is used: OUTPUT
Settings for Layer or Split can be made in
the EDIT COMBINATION Mode.
Separate MIDI channels can be assigned
to each Program (or timbre) when Multi
is chosen. In this way, one MIR Music
Work station can, with the aid of an
external sequencer, output eight different
sound colors at the same time.
When using theMlR's built-in sequencer,
Programs can be assigned to each track of
the sequencer without having to create a
Combination.
©[|7]Q
®®
7

-SEQUENCER MODE (Song 0to 9)-
When using external sound sources:
OUTPUT
Programs are assigned to each song.
The pan setting can be made for each track.
The effect setting can be made for each song.
1song can be made up of 8tracks
Tracks c^ be created by combining pattems(00 to 99).
PAN
(D The volume difference between the two outputs can be
changed over arange of ratios from 1:9-9:1.
®Sends signals to Cand Dat the same volume.
EFFECT El, E2
When set to parallel operation:
A
B
EFFECT
1
cPAN 3
1^PAN 4
EFFECT
2
1/L
2/R
-3
—4
When set to serial operation:
A
B
C
D
EFFECT
1
EFFECT
2
PAN 3
PAN 4
-1/L
—2/R
—3
—4
Effect 1and Effect2 are set in the effects pages of
each mode.
8

KEYS AND CONTROLS
Numeric Keypad
\05'
;C 1)
i16
i( 1)
'27;
(1)i
38i
(11)
49•
(1
1)
COMPARE BANK HOLD
(11)
BANK HOLD Key
05
(1I)
16
(1I)
27
(1I)
38
(1I)
49
(1I)
COMPARE 8ANK, HOLD
COMPARE Key
2
C
4
(
1
COMPARE
These are used to:
*Select the Combination in the COMBINATION Mode.
*Select functions in other modes.
The tens digit of the program or combination number can be "held"
while changing program or combination numbers by using the BANK
HOLD key. For example, pressing the BANK HOLD key once after
number 21 has been selected will allow you to select other numbers in
the 20-29 range simply by pressing the number that corresponds to the
ones digit of the desired number; in our example, pressing 3will change
the number to 23, pressing to 7will change it to 27, and so on. The
BANK HOLD key will be lit when the Bank Hold function is on. To
turn the function off, press the BANK HOLD key once more.
This key temporarily returns the Program or Combination which is
being edited in the EDIT COMBINATION or EDIT PROGRAM Mode
to the setting that existed before editing. Pressing the COMPARE key
again restores the edited parameter values. However, data edited
before pressing the COMPARE key will be lost if editing of other
parameters or switching to other modes is done. The COMPARE key
also functions as aMIDI panic button; in other words, when astuck
note occurs in sequencer play or control through MIDI IN, one press of
the COMPARE key will turn the note off. (This can be used in any of
the modes.) When the COMPARE key is lit, the original sound can be
heard and its parameters are displayed; unlit, the COMPARE key
indicates that the edited sound is displayed.
MODE SELECT Keys
COMBl EDIT COMBl 1
(11)i
PROG EDIT PROG
SEQ GLOBAL
c1 1 ).
The selected mode will be lit.
JSEQ I
START/STOP REC
CZZ] dZD
INT Key and CARD Key
CARD
COMBl EDIT COM81
(1CUD
PROG EDIT PROG
(1[=D
GLOeAL
SEQ
Press the INT key when using the Combination/Program/Song data of
the internal memory of the MIR, Press the CARD key to access the
external (card) data.
9

NOTE: The waveforms of the PCM (Multisound) card are selected in the Oscillator Assign function of the EDIT
PROGRAM Mode and the Drum Kit functions of the GLOBAL Mode. In these exceptions, the INT Key and
CARD Key are not used.
NOTE: Make certain to insert the card straight and firmly into the correct slot.
Cursor Keys and VALUE Dial
IIParameter values can be changed by pressing the cursor key
below the parameter to be edited on the display, then by
A, BCDEFGH©adjusting the VALUE dial. Cursor keys used to access
r
IYp^^"
i
"~""fjfr^^" J\\ ]~
\jVJ different function and parameters will be indicated in
I. Jsquares ( ) throughout the rest of this manual.
UP/DOWN Keys
These are used when finely adjusting the values of parameters that are difficult to set
only by using the VALUE dial or when making fine and detailed alterations in the
sound. Pressing UP increases the value by 1and pressing DOWN decreases the value
by 1.
DOWN TiUP
dZJ [ZZD
*Concerning the UP/DOWN keys:
The cursor will appear under the Combination/Program number at the bottom left of the screen when pressing
the COMBI key or PROG key of the MODE SELECT keys (immediately after selecting the COMBI or PROG
Mode). Pressing the UP key in this condition will advance the Combination or Program number by one and
pressing the DOWN key will decrease it by one.
*The VALUE dial cannot be used here to change the Combination or Program.
*Pressing any of the cursor keys ([a] through [h] )will move the cursor to the performance edit
parameters, and editing can be done by using the UP/DOWN keys and the VALUE dial.
To return the UP/DOWN keys to function as Program up and down after selecting the performance edit mode:
in PROGRAM Mode, press the PROG button; in COMBINATION Mode, press the COMBI button.
In each case, the cursor will return to its position under the Combination or Program number and the UP/DOWN
keys can be used again to increment and decrement the Combination or Program number.
PAGE +/- Keys
PAGE PAGE Each function of the MIR is organized in display pages. These keys allow you to
(I I )access succeeding and preceding display pages by using the PAGE +and PAGE -
keys, respectively.
START/STOP Key
INT CARD
(1
C
COMBI eDIT COMBt
]I—
)
This key is used to start or to stop the sequencer. If you press this key in any
mode other than the SEQUENCER Mode, the MIR will automatically move to
the SEQUENCER Mode and play will start. When the sequencer is playing, the
first beat of the measure is indicated on the key by aflashing red light; other beats
are indicated by aflashing green light.
ISEQ
1
START/STOP REC
REG Key
(1
COMBt EDIT COMBI
This key is used to begin recording when in the SEQ mode. The lamp remains lit
while the sequencer is running.
ISEQ
I
START/STOP REC
10

SETTING UP
1. First, check that the power switch on the front panel of the MIR.is OFF. Check that the power switches of all
connected equipment (amplifiers, mixers, etc.) are also OFF. For protection of all audio equipment (and your ears!)
turn the volume of all equipment completely down.
2. Insert the power cord (which is included as standard equipment) into the power plug on the rear panel, then insert the
other end of the cord into the proper power outlet.
3. Turn the MlR's power switch ON.
4. Turn the power switches of all connected equipment ON.
Then turn the MlR's volume and that of the other equipment up gradually to the desired volume. The MIR
will not sound, however, if the MIDI channels of the MIR and the connected external MIDI devices are not
matched. Please see the section "How to Match MIDI Channels" below.
Headphones Amplifier, mixer, etc
1/L 2/R 3 4 MIR
o
MIDI IN
MIDI OUT
niiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
All note data from C-1 to G9 (note numbers 0-127) are received through MIDI IN. (Some of the
Programs may not sound when played in higher ranges.)
How to Match MIDI Channels
(1) Press GLOBAL of the Mode Select keys,
(2) Press "5" on the numeric keypad.
(3) Make sure that the cursor is at the "CH ="display. If it is not, press cursor key \b\ .
(4) Adjust the VALUE dial until the desired MIDI channel is displayed.
*For situations in which MIDI data is being received over different channels, settings are made using
Multi functions the COMBINATION Mode or SEQUENCER Mode.
HOW TO PLAY COMBINATIONS (SOUND COLOR GROUPS)
-Numeric Keypad
INT CARD ^"6 5'
r11)CM)
COMBI EDIT COMBI 16
(II ^
PPOG EDIT PROG 27
(11)r11^
SEQ GLOBAL 38
(11)CII )
Mode Select Key 49
SEQ (11)
START/STOP REC COMPARE 8ANK HOLD
(1)C1
1^
(1) Press the COMBI key of the mode select keys; this puts the
MIR in the COMBINATION Mode.
(2) Select the number of the Combination (00 to 99) which you
want to play by using the numeric keypad.
(3) Play the keyboard to hear the sound of the combination
selected in step #2.
These are typical displays from the COMBINATION mode:
11

Example #1
c'0p
COMBI 101 Piano+Trp
*I00 R. Piano L70 Layer 1
102 Truripet Program L82
CDE F GH
1Combination number
2Combination name
3Parameter of currently selected cursor position
4Number, name and volume level of the program being
used
—(5) 5Cursor keys
Example #2
6Program name of cursor position
7Number of the Program being used
COHBI 104 HultiCot'ibi
101 102 103 105 106 Tl=E.Bass
109 110 112 -0
Example 1shows adisplay when aLayer Combination is selected. The Program number, Program name and
volume level are indicated when the Combination is aLayer or Split.
When replacing the Program of Layer 1(Program number 100, directly above cursor key [a] )with another
Program, press cursor key [a] then adjust the VALUE dial.
The display pages are often laid out such that one parameter description will occupy the space over several
cursor keys. The cursor keys just under that parameter (and up to the cursor key of the next parameter) can be
used to access the parameter.
The sound volume of Layer 1can be changed by pressing cursor key [d] then adjusting the VALUE dial
(maximum =99, minimum =00).
Press cursor key [e] when you want to replace the Program of layer 2. Press cursor key [h] when changing
the volume of layer 2.
Example 2shows adisplay when amulti Combination is selected. As in the first example, the Program number
shown directly above cursor key [e] (Program number 106) can be changed by pressing cursor key \e\ then
by adjusting the VALUE dial.
HOW TO FLAY PROGRAMS (ONE SOUND COLOR)
(1) Press the PROG key of the mode select keys; this puts the Ml in the PROGRAM Mode,
(2) Select the number of the Program (00 to 99) which you want to play by using the numeric keypad or UP/DOWN
keys.
(3) Play the keyboard to hear the sound of the Program selected in step #2.
Here is atypical display from the PROGRAM mode:
-Mode Select Key EXAMPLE
tNT CARD 5'
c1 1 )C1 1
!COMBI EDIT COMBI i16
•( 11): (1 1 )
IPROG EDIT PROG 127
>imm 1)' (1 1 )
1SEQ GLOBAL i38
ic 1 1 y(1 1 )
Keypad
PR06 100 Uniyerse OSC Balance
0+05 F+03 L-02 K+10 1. .I-0S fl+01 R-01 E+03
ABEF G H
COMPARE BANK HOLD
1Program
2Internal
program
number
3Program
name
4Parameter
The display shown when selecting the PROGRAM Mode is like the one above. While this display is shown,
the pressing of any single cursor key and adjusting of the VALUE dial will change the value of the parameter,
which is indicated above the selected cursor key. In this way Programs may be easily edited without having
to enter the EDIT PROGRAM Mode. This is particularly convenient for making on-the-spot sound changes
during live performance.
12

*The functions of the parameters are as follows (see pp. 18 -19 in the PROGRAM Mode for more details):
O=OSC Balance (Oscillator balance)
This parameter controls the relative sound volume of the two oscillators of programs having two
oscillators. The larger the value, the greater the volume of OSC 1becomes.
(Range: -10 to +10.)
F=VDF Cutoff (VDF cutoff frequency)
This parameter controls the frequency point from which all lower frequencies are passed and all higher
ones are cut off by the VDF. The higher this number is the clearer or brighter the timbre of the sound
becomes, and the smaller the number the more muted or soft the timbre becomes.
(Range: -10 to +10.)
L=VDA Level
This parameter adjusts the level of the entire Program by VDA.
(Range: -10 to +10.)
K=KBD Track (Keyboard tracking)
Used in conjunction with VDF Cutoff, this parameter sets the degree to which keyboard pitch affects the
amplitude and the cutoff frequency. The larger the number set with this parameter, the wider the variation
in timbre becomes, corresponding to the note played.
(Range: -10 to +10.)
V=Vel. Sens. (Velocity Sensitivity)
This parameter sets the degree to which key velocity affects the amplitude and the cutoff frequency. The
larger the valuelis, the greater the change in timbre becomes, corresponding to how hard the keys are struck.
.(Range: -10 to +10.)
A=VDF/A EG Attack Time (VDF and VDA EG attack time)
This parameter controls the attack time of the program. The larger the value is, the longer the attack
time becomes.
(Range: -10 to +10.)
R=VDF/A EG Release Time (VDF and VDA EG release time)
This parameter controls the release time of the program. The larger the number is, the longer the release
time becomes.
(Range: -10 to +10.)
E=Effect Balance
This parameter controls the volume balance of the effect and direct sounds. The larger the number is,
the greater the ratio of effect sound to direct sound becomes.
(Range: -10 to +10.)
NOTE: The values of the parameters here will return to their original settings when you select other programs.
When moving to other modes, the parameter value (and, hence, the sound) remains at its stored or edited
setting. When moving back to the PROGRAM Mode, the display value will be reset to zero, but the actual
value remains unchanged.
13

HOW TO OPERATE THE SEQUENCER
Specially prepared sequencer demonstration data has been loaded into the internal memory of the MlRat the
factory. Before recording your own data, let's listen to the demonstration data.
1. Press the SEQ key of the mode select keys; this puts the Ml in the SEQUENCER Mode.
2. Press cursor key[B].
-Mode Select Key
_SEQ 1
>P REC
SONG0 Ml DEMO 31^;•Free
R/P SongQ Trl MQQl J=120 +160 U99 LVil
3. The value above the
cursor can be changed by
adjusting the VALUE dial.
Select song number 0by
turning the VALUE dial
counterclockwise as far as
it will go.
4. The sequence can be played by pressing the
START/STOP key.
5. Play can be stopped by pressing the START/STOP key
again.
HOW TO RECORD WITH THE SEQUENCER
(
1
1COMBI EDIT COMBI ;
iC 1 1 )i
PROG EDIT PROG 1
(1|- ):
SEQ GLOBAL !
-Mode Select Key
_SEQ ,
cD
Now that you've heard the demo sequence, follow these steps
to record some sequenced music of your own.
1. Press the SEQ key of the mode select keys; this puts the
MIR in the SEQUENCER Mode.
SnNi39 Npm qnn-^i 31>:Free I2. Press cursor key [bJ .
R/F 5ong9 Trl MS01 J=129 ^198 U99 EH] |3^ 3^1^^^ ^^^^ ^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^.^^ ^^LUE
^^^^^^^^^^^^^Lb^b dial. Select number 9here.
J
COMBI EDIT COmBI
(
1I
PROG EDIT PROG
c
SEQ GLOBAL
CZZD
4Select the track to be recorded by pressing the cursor key
\C\ ,then adjusting the VALUE dial. Select [1] for now.
5Make certain that the MIDI transmit channel of the
external keyboard matches the MIDI channel of the track.
6Press the cursor key [f] ,then select the program to be
used by adjusting the VALUE dial. Select any Program you
wish.
7 Press the REC key.
8Press the START/STOP key. Begin playing after alead-in
of 2measures. Recording starts at this point.
9After finishing recording, press the START/STOP key
once more to stop recording.
10 Playback can be executed by pressing the START/STOP
key.
14

SOUND MAKING PROCESS
Here is asummary of the MlR's sound making process.
1. Select the sound
to be edited in the
PROGRAM
Mode.
INT CARD
(I1)
'< COMB) EDIT COmB( ;
iC 1)i
iPROG toiT PROG ;
'(mm 1r
1SEO GioaAL ;
Mode Select Key
STAHTSTOP
SEQ
1
c1)
See the MODES AND
FUNCTIONS chapter,
section #1 PROGRAM
MODE (p. 18)
2, Create the sound color in
the EDIT PROGRAM mode
and write it to memory.
INT CARD
(11)
ICOMBI EDIT COMBI
;( 11)
IPROO [OC! PROO
(mm
ISEQ GLOBAL
See the MODES AND
FUNCTIONS chapter,
section #2 EDIT
PROGRAM MODE(p.20)
3^ Create the Combination
by combining the Programs
created in step #2 in the
EDIT COMBINATION
Mode.
INT CARD
(11)
COMBI EDIT COMBI
c
PROG EDIT PROG
CM)
SEQ GLOBAL
c11y.
1SEO
1
START/STOP REC
(zu czz:
See the MODES AND
FUNCTIONS chapter,
section #5 EDIT COMBI-
NATION MODE(p. 61)
3. Record asong using the
Programs created in step #2
in the SEQUENCER Mode.
COMBI EDIT COMBI |
Di
(1
PROG EDIT PROG
(II):
SEQ GLOBAL
I
(II)
See the MODES AND
FUNCTIONS chapter,
section #6 SEQUENCER
MODE(p.79)
15

INTERNAL MEMORY ALLOCATION
Large Combination 10 Banks
Sequence Memory =50 100 Patterns
Allocation Program Memory =50 (a total of less
(memory numbers 150 than 7700 steps)
-199 cannot be selected)
Large Program Combination Memory 10 Banks
Allocation (set =100 100 Patterns
at the factory Program Memory =100 (a total of
prior to to less than
shipment) 4400 steps)
There are two different kinds of internal memory
allocation (the way available memory is used) in the
MIR .
*Changing the memory allocation setting is done
in the GLOBAL Mode, F6 -4(p. 117)
NOTE: Be careful when switching the memory allocation setting, since much of your precious data could be
irretrievably lost.
MEMORY CARD FORMAT
Program Card 100 Combinations
100 Programs
1Global Parameter
Sequencer Card 10 Banks
100 Patterns
(a total of
less than
7700 steps)
Program/Sequence
Card
50 Combinations 10 Banks
100 Patterns
(a total of
less than
4200 steps)
The Ml has three kinds of memory formats.
*PCM cards are not included in this classification.
*Use KORG MCR-03 RAM cards.
*Two RAM cards are neccesary in order to save all
the internal memory data.
*Cards for the MIR and the Ml can be used
interchangably.
Writing in and reading out of data from cards can be done by using the following functions:
Readout Write In
All Programs, Combinations,
.sequence data
All Programs, Combinations Global Mode F8- 1Global Mode F9 -1
All sequence data
1Combination COMBIMode EDITCOMBI ModeF9-l
1Program PROG Mode- EDIT PROG ModeF9-
1
1song SEQ Mode F9 -2
1pattern SEQModeF9-3
16

MODES AND FUNCTIONS
HOW TO READ THE DISPLAY PAGE CHART
FO-2 OSCl (Oscillator 1) ®
sMultisound
Select
Drum Kit
Multisound
Name
Drum Kit 1
'
Drum Kit 4
OSC 1Multisound
(original waveform)
Selection (when the
OSC mode is set to
SINGLE or DOUBLE)
Drum Kit Selection
(when the OSC mode
is set to DRUMS)
mLOscillator
Level
0^99 Volume of
Oscillator I
[U Octave
Iff
8'
4'
Octave setting of
Oscillator 1
1octave down
standard pitch
1octave up
@ @ ®
®F0-2 OSCl (Oscillator 1): Indicates that this is the
second page of function 0and that the function is called
Oscillator 1.
®The cursor key to be used to access the parameter.
(D The abbreviation of the parameter that is shown on the
display.
®Name of the parameter.
(D The range of values and settings of the parameter.
®Brief explanation of die parameter's function.
17

1-- PROGRAM MODE
In this mode Programs (sound colors or preset voices) can be selected and played. Programs are selected by
the numeric keypad (0-9), UP/DOWN keys, footswitch (PROG/COMBI, UP/DOWN) or MIDI program change,
*AProgram within the internal memory is selected when INT is selected and aProgram within the card
is selected when CARD is selected.
*Before selecting aProgram by footswitch or MIDI, the appropriate function has to be set for operation
in the GLOBAL Mode.
NOTE: Panpot settings are given adefault value of A:B =5:5 in all Programs except the Drum Kit. (Signals are
not output to Outputs 3and 4.)
EDITING IN THE PROGRAM MODE
PpriQ 100 Universe OSC Balance
IJ4.05 F4-03 1-02 K+IQ U-t38 fl+01 R-Sl E+@5
AeC0EF6H
a0OSC Balance -10- +10 Controls the volume balance of OSC 1and OSC 2of the Programs when
set to DOUBLE.
[U FVDF Cutoff -10- +10 Controls the cutoff frequency of VDF 1and VDF 2(changes the tonal
quality of the sound).
0LVDALevel -10- +10 Controls the level (volume) of OSC 1and OSC 2.
[D] KKeyboard Track -10- +10 Controls the sensitivity at which changes in sound color and volume are
affected by the part of the keyboard played.
d] VVelocity
Sensitivity
-10- +10 Controls the sensitivity at which changes in sound color and volume are
affected by how hard the keyboard is played.
SAAttack Time -10- +10 Controls the attack time of VDFs 1, 2and VDAs 1, 2.
\G\ RRelease Time -10- +10 Controls the release time of VDFs 1, 2and VDAs 1, 2.
H] EEffect Balance -10- +10 Controls the balance of the direct sound and the sound of Effects 1and 2.
When editing parameters in the PROGRAM Mode, corresponding Program parameters in the same Programs
of the EDIT PROGRAM Mode are assigned the same values,
*Edited Programs should be written to memory in the EDIT PROGRAM Mode.
18

Program parameters change as shown in the chart below when selecting positive parameter values ("+" settings).
The reverse changes occur when negative values ("-" settings) are used.
PROGRAM Mode Parameters Effect of apositive value setting on each parameter
OSC Balance OSC 1Level
OSC 2Level
The level of OSC 1increases, while that of OSC 2decreases.* ^
VDF Cutoff. VDF 1,2 Cutoff Increases (or assumes apositive value).*^
VDALevel OSC 1,2 Level
Keyboard Track VDF 1, 2KBD TRK Cutoff
EG Time
VDA 1, 2KBD TRK Amplitude
EG Time
Increases in proportion to note number of key played.*^
Even when set to anegative value, only the absolute value
becomes smaller, but the sign ("+" or "-") does not change
Parameters with values set to "0" remain as "0" and do not
change.
Velocity
Sensitivity
OSC 1. 2EG Level Vel Sens
EG Time Vel Sens
VDF 1,2 VEL SENS EG Int
EG Time
VDA 1,2 VEL SENS Amplitude
EG Time
Attack Time VDF 1,2 Attack Time
VDA 1,2 Attack Time
Increases (or assumes apositive value). *^
Release Time VDF 1,2 Release Time Increases.*^
Effect Balance EFFECT 1,2 Balance
*1 Assuming that the original value =V, then the changed value is increased or decreased by 5V.
*2 Assuming that the original value =V, then the changed value increases by apower of 1+(V/10).
*3 Assuming that the original value =V, then the increase or decrease of the VDF value is by 3V, while that of the
VDA value is by 5V.
19

2EDIT PROGRAM MODE
In this mode the Program parameters (such as original waveform settings and filter EG values, etc.) are set.
*Only the Programs which have been already selected in the PROGRAM Mode can be edited.
*Editing in real time (for changing parameters in live performance) can be done in the PROGRAM Mode.
*Use the F9-1Write Program function after finishing any edits and the Program will be completed.
(Programs which are not written to memory are irretrievably lost when selecting other programs in the
PROGRAM Mode.)
*Pressing the COMPARE key during editing can recall the original un-edited program for comparison.
Pressing the COMPARE key again and leaving the Program without editing it returns you to the
Program which was being edited before the COMPARE key was pressed.
STRUCTURE OF THE MI'S PROGRAM PARAMETERS
OSC 1PITCH EG
Changes the pitch of the
sound over time.
OSC 1
Sets the waveform type
and the basic pitch.
PITCH MG
Regularly varies
the pitch of the sound
(vibrato)
VDF1EG
Changes the tonal qualities
of the sound over time.
VDA 1EG
Changes the volume
of the sound over time.
VDF1 VDA1
Sets the tonal Sets the volume
qualities of the sound
VDF MG
Regularly varies
the tonal qualities
of the sound
For double modeonly-
OSC 2
Sets the waveform type,
basic pitch and amount
of detuning relative to OSC 1.
VDF 2
Sets the tonal
qualities of the sound
VDA2
Sets the volume
OSC 2PITCH EG
Changes the pitch
of the sound over time.
VDF 2EG
Changes the tonal qualities
of the sound over time.
VDA 2EG
Changes the volume
of the sound over time.
.Basic Sound Generation ~
EFFECT
Effect settings used
in the PROGRAM mode
Velocity Sensitivity
Effect of key velocity
(the strength at which the keys
are struck) on the sound
KBD Tracking
Effect of key position
on the sound
After Touch
Effect of after touch
on the sound
Controller
Effect of controllers
on tfie sound.
Real Time —
20