Korg X5DR AI2 SYNTHESIS MODULE User manual

GENERAL
INSTRUMENT
AI
2
SynthesisSystem
1E
Owner’s Manual
AI
2SYNTHESIS MODULE

Introduction
i
Introduction
Features of the X5DR
Superior Sound with Korg's AI
2
Synthesis System
The Korg X5DR employs Korg's AI
2
Synthesis System for all digital processing. From the tone
generator—with its 8MB capacity—to the filters, amplifier, and effect units, all audio is handled
in the digital domain, which ensures the highest quality sound with absolutely no signal loss or
deterioration in audio quality.
Based on state-of-the-art PCM technology, theAI
2
Synthesis System is technology developed by
Korg to capture the true essence of acoustic sound for use in a tone generator. Since its
introduction in Korg's 01/W series, X2/X3/X5, and i2/i3 synthesizers, theAI
2
Synthesis System
has received unqualified praise from musicians and artists throughout the world.With the X5DR,
you will enjoy a richness and variety of sound at a level of excellence that meets or exceeds the
quality of audio CDs.
Multisounds LetYou Create an EndlessVariety of Sounds
The X5DR contains 430 built-in Multisounds, which are multi-sampled PCM waveforms. These
Multisounds allow you to simulate a range of acoustic sounds, from drums and percussion to
piano, guitar, and trumpet. The X5DR also features unique Multisounds—such as Synth and
Special Effects—which provide a wide variety of flexible tools for sound creation. In fact, the
X5DR can generate a virtually endless variety of sounds.
These built-in Multisounds can be played in their unmodified form. They can also be modified to
create the sound of various musical instruments once they pass through a powerful VDF (filter)
and VDA (amplifier). You can also add a rich expressiveness to a performance by altering the
sound using the key touch velocity, or by adjusting the brightness of the sound or the depth of the
vibrato using MIDI modulation messages.
Rich, large-scale ensembles with 64-voice polyphony
The X5DR's 64-voice polyphonic capability allows you to create complex ensemble and
large-scale orchestral sounds. Combinations of multiple Programs and features in Multi mode will
help you achieve such effects. The X5DR can simulate a magnificent piano sound, replete with a
damper pedal, and ensembles of various instrumental parts without any notes cutting off.
236 Programs in Banks A and G
Bank A contains 100 Programs and Bank G contains 136 General MIDI (GM) compatible
Programs.You can store your own Programs in BankA.
Programs comprise the basic sounds of the X5DR.You can play different Programs in a song; you
can even layer them in Combinations.
One Hundred Combination Slots Allow for an EndlessVariety of Programs
Up to 100 Combinations can be stored in the X5DR. Up to eight Programs can be assigned to each
Combination. In Combinations, you can layer or split multiple Programs by setting the Key
Window or Velocity Window parameters.
Combinations are powerful sound tools, especially for live performance. The Combination types
layer , split , and velocity switch provide various sound structures.
Drum Kits Support aVariety of Rhythms
The X5DR provides 215 types of popular drum sounds, including both standard drum and
percussion sounds.You can create two Drum Kits by assigning different drum sounds to each key
on the keyboard. There are also eight ROM Drum Kits available.

Introduction
ii
A Drum Kit supports the rhythm of a song. Assigning a different drum sound to each key allows
you to create a wide variety of rhythm parts.You can also edit the drum sounds usingVDF,VDA,
and effect units.
Extensive Presets Produce aWide Range of Truly Practical Sounds
The X5DR utilizes various Programs, Combinations, and Drum Kits as Preset data.You can load
the sounds stored in Presets a and b into the Program or Combination memory for immediate use.
The Preset Load operation loads data from all preset sounds to one particular sound slot.
Theversatileediting functionsof the X5DR letyou create original sounds veryeasily. Onthe other
hand, it is quite a bit of work to create a good sound from scratch. Given such circumstances,
Preset data can be very handy.You can use the data immediately after you load a sound, choosing
from a broad selection.You can use Preset data just as it is, without modification.You can also use
Preset data as the raw material for sound editing.You may be able to glean a few ideas for
sound-making from the Preset sounds.
Digital Multi-Effects Processors: To Create and Add Dimension to Sounds
The X5DR contains two independent digital multi-effects processors that can produce various
effects such as reverb, delay, EQ, distortion rotary speaker, etc. These effects are very useful when
you want to create a new sound or add dimension to a sound. Some effects are actually a
combination of two effects. Using the X5DR's two independent digital multi-effects processors,
you can use up to four independent effects simultaneously.
The effects processors allow you to apply effects and edit the sounds directly on the X5DR,
instead of connecting external effect units. Placement settings are useful for processing the sound
and adding width or depth to the sound. Each Program and Combination can have its own effect
settings.
A wide range of scale types accommodates numerous musical genres
In addition to the conventional equal temperament and pure temperament types of tuning, a wide
variety of scales is also available. These scales include theWerkmeister III, Kirnberger III,Arabic,
and Indonesian scales. These scales cover a broad range of musical genres, from classical to
various ethnic music, and prove extremely useful in the creation of realistic simulations of various
instruments.
Western music generally uses a twelve-tone equal temperament that allows you to play in any key
and to transpose the key easily. However, the X5DR provides various scale types that will make
the sound of chords and the flow of phrases more beautiful, and which will allow you to perform
music utilizing temperaments other than the equal temperament, including the very complex and
subtle temperaments used in many ethnic musical pieces.
Multi Mode for GM
Since the X5DR conforms to the GM (General MIDI) standard in Multi mode, it can function as
a tone generator for computer music. It can also play GM songs (performance data designed for a
GM tone generator). Using original Programs in Bank A, or utilizing Key Window andVelocity
Window parameters, you can perform high-quality ensemble pieces.
The X5DR can be used as a GM tone generator with standard specifications.You can also combine
different Programs and play original Programs via computer.
Equipped with a personal computer interface
The built-in computer interface enables a direct connection to the serial port of your personal
computer (Apple Macintosh or IBM-PC compatible).
You can connect the X5DR to a computer through either a MIDI connection using a MIDI
interface, or through a direct connection using a serial cable. Using the Korg MIDI Driver will
allow you to control data transmission from MIDI OUT independently of the X5DR tone
generator, or to simultaneously control an external MIDI device.

Controls
iii
Controls
Front Panel
About Color Codes for Letters and Numbers on the Keys:
White letters and numbers are used to select the Program/Combination numbers in Program Play mode and
Combination Play mode. Blue letters and numbers are used to edit and set up parameters in other modes.
1 VOLUME
This VOLUME knob is used to adjust the entire volume level. (That is, it simultaneously adjusts
the volume at the OUTPUT connector on the rear panel and the volume at the PHONES jack.)
2 [COMBI] button
Press this button to select the Combination Play mode. Pressing this button repeatedly will toggle
the displays for Timbres 1–4 and Timbres 5–8.
3 [PROG] button
Press this button to select the Program Play mode.
4 [BANK]/[PAGE+] button, [PAGE–] button
Repeatedly pressing the [BANK] button in Program Play mode will toggle between BankA and
Bank G.
Pressing this button in Program Edit mode, Combination Edit mode, Multi mode, or Global mode
will change the page shown on the LCD. Press the [PAGE+] button to select the next page; press
the [PAGE–] button to select the previous page.
5 [+10]/[ ® ] button, [–10]/[ √ ] button
The [+10] and [–10] buttons increment and decrement the Program and Combination numbers in
steps of 10 in Program Play mode and Combination Play mode.
In Program Edit mode, Combination Edit mode, Multi mode, and Global mode, the [®] and [ √
]
buttons allow you to move the flashing cursor around the LCD to select parameters. When one
display page includes multiple LCD screens, you can switch screens by moving the cursor.
6[+1]/[ £] button, [–1]/[ ¥] button
VOLUME
100
PHONES MIDI EDIT GLOBAL
MULTI PAGE-
+10 +1
COMBI PROG BANK
PAGE+
-10 -1 POWER
1VOLUME
4[BANK]/[PAGE+] button, [PAGE–] button
2[COMBI] button
3[PROG] button
5[+10]/[¤] button, [–10]/[ˆ] button
8[EDIT] button
7[GLOBAL]/[MULTI] button
9Power switch@MIDI indicator
ALCD display
BPHONES jack

Controls
iv
6 [+1]/[ ▲ ] button, [–1]/[ ▼ ] button
In Program Play mode and Combination Play mode, pressing the [+1] and [–1] buttons increment
and decrement the Program and Combination numbers in steps of 1.
In Program Edit mode, Combination Edit mode, Multi mode, and Global mode, these buttons can
be used to increase and decrease the currently-selected parameter value. In these modes, pressing
one of these buttons while pressing and holding down the [ ▲
] or [ ▼ ] button will change the
parameter value very quickly.
These buttons are also used when the X5DR requires a yes or no answer from you on the LCD
screen. When the message “-- OK?”appears, press the [ ▲
] button to continue, or the [ ▼ ] button
to cancel.
7 [GLOBAL]/[MULTI] button
Press this button to enter Multi mode or Global mode.This button also switches the mode between
Multimode and Global mode. In Multi mode, the indicatorlights up; in Globalmode, the indicator
flashes.
8 [EDIT] button
In Program Play mode, press this button to select the Program Edit mode. In Combination Play
mode, press this button to select the Combination Edit mode.
9 Power switch
This switch is used to power on and power off the X5DR.
0 MIDI indicator
This indicator lights up when the X5DR receives MIDI data via the MIDI IN jack or the TO HOST
jack.
A LCD
This visual interface displays the current Program name and Combination name in Program Play
mode and Combination Play mode, respectively. In other modes, it displays parameters.
B PHONES jack
Connect the headphones to this stereo mini jack.

Rear Panel
v
Rear Panel
1 DC IN
Connect the AC adapter here.
2 MIDI (IN, OUT, THRU)
These connections are used to connect external MIDI instruments. MIDI IN receives MIDI data
from an external MIDI instrument. MIDI OUT outputs MIDI data from the X5DR to a connected
MIDI instrument. MIDI THRU outputs MIDI data received at the MIDI IN connection.
3 OUTPUT (L/MONO, R)
These 1/4 inch phone jack connections should be connected to the inputs of a powered monitor,
stereo amplifier, mixer, or multi-track tape recorder. Use the L/MONO connection for mono
playback.
4 TO HOST
This connection is used to connect a computer to the X5DR via an optional cable
(AG-001/002/003). This enables you to play the X5DR via a connected computer.
Note: Do not use adapters other than the AC adapter that comes with the X5DR! Otherwise, a
malfunction may occur.
DC IN 12V
700mA TO HOST THRU OUT
MIDI IN
R L/MONO
OUTPUT
1DC IN 2MIDI (IN, OUT, THRU)
3OUTPUT (L/MONO, R)4TO HOST

Controls
vi

Table of Contents
vii
Table of Contents
Introduction ...................................................................................................................... i
Features of the X5DR ..................................................................................................... i
Controls ........................................................................................................................iii
Front Panel ...................................................................................................................iii
Rear Panel .....................................................................................................................v
Table of Contents ........................................................................................................vii
About this manual .......................................................................................................xii
Start-up Guide
Using a Keyboard
Connections ................................................................................................................... 1
MIDI Keyboard Settings ............................................................................................... 2
Listening to a Demo performance.................................................................................. 3
Playing Programs .......................................................................................................... 4
If No Sound is Produced: .................................................................................... 5
Program Examples .............................................................................................. 5
Playing Combinations ................................................................................................... 7
Combination Examples ....................................................................................... 8
Using a Computer/Sequencer
Connections ................................................................................................................... 9
Connecting a computer or sequencer ................................................................ 10
Connection via MIDI ........................................................................................ 11
Connecting an IBM PC (Compatible) Computer .............................................. 12
Connecting an Apple Macintosh Computer ...................................................... 13
Settings Required When a Computer is Connected .......................................... 14
Listening to a Demo performance................................................................................ 15
Playing the X5DR in Multi Mode (Playing Back GM Scores).................................... 16
Structure of Multi Mode ................................................................................... 17
Selecting a Track Program From a Computer or Sequencer ............................ 17
Performance settings ......................................................................................... 18
Notes on Playing Back GM Scores ................................................................... 18
If You Cannot Play the X5DR .......................................................................... 19
Loading Preset Data .................................................................................................... 20

Table of Contents
viii
Basic Guide
1. X5DR Modes
Program Play mode ..................................................................................................... 21
Playing Programs ..............................................................................................21
Basic operation in Program Play mode .............................................................21
Program Edit Mode ..................................................................................................... 23
Basic operation in Program Edit mode ............................................................. 23
Combination Play Mode ..............................................................................................24
Playing Combinations .......................................................................................24
Basic operation in Combination Play mode. .....................................................24
Combination Types ........................................................................................... 25
Combination Edit mode ...............................................................................................26
Basic operation in Combination Edit mode ......................................................26
Multi Mode .................................................................................................................. 27
Playing the X5DR in Multi mode ..................................................................... 27
Basic operation in Multi mode ..........................................................................27
Global Mode ................................................................................................................ 29
Basic operation in Global mode ........................................................................29
2. Performance Techniques
Structure of the X5DR .................................................................................................30
Control via MIDI/Sequencer .............................................................................30
Signal flow in various modes ............................................................................31
Received MIDI data .......................................................................................... 32
Performance Functions ................................................................................................34
Keyboard Velocity ............................................................................................34
Pitch Bend/Modulation Wheel ..........................................................................34
Effect Dynamic Modulation .............................................................................. 35
After Touch ....................................................................................................... 35
3. Editing
Basic Concepts ............................................................................................................ 36
Sound Structure .................................................................................................36
EG and MG .......................................................................................................37
Editing Programs......................................................................................................... 38
Before Editing ................................................................................................... 38
Checking the Sound While Editing ...................................................................39
Adjusting the Attack of Programs .....................................................................40
Adjusting the Decay ..........................................................................................41
Adjusting the Release ........................................................................................ 42
Adjusting the Tonal Brightness ......................................................................... 42
Editing a Multisound (Basic Waveform) .......................................................... 44
Adjusting Modulation ....................................................................................... 44
Adjusting the Panpot .........................................................................................45
About Double Mode .......................................................................................... 45
Some Hints for Editing Programs .....................................................................46
Editing Effects .............................................................................................................47
Effect Types ......................................................................................................47
Effects and Sound Level ................................................................................... 50
Editing Combinations.................................................................................................. 51
Layering Multiple Programs .............................................................................51
Adjusting the Volume .......................................................................................52
Adjusting the Key Window ............................................................................... 52
Adjusting the Velocity Window ....................................................................... 52
More About Combination Edit ......................................................................... 52
Editing a Drum Kit ......................................................................................................53

Table of Contents
ix
Preparing to Play a Drum Kit ............................................................................ 53
Editing a Drum Kit ............................................................................................ 53
Creating a Drum Program Using a ROM Drum Kit ......................................... 56
4. Application Guide
General Troubleshooting ............................................................................................. 57
Nothing is displayed on the LCD when the power switch is turned on. ..... 57
The X5DR does not produce any sound. ..................................................... 57
The sound does not stop. ............................................................................. 57
The X5DR does not respond to incoming MIDI data. ................................. 57
You cannot change Programs or Combinations. ......................................... 58
The wrong sounds are produced. ................................................................. 58
You cannot write a Program or Combination. ............................................. 58
You cannot select the parameter pages for OSC2 (e.g., VDF2 and VDA 2). 58
The X5DR does not play the specified drum sounds. ................................. 58
The X5DR does not play GM-compatible song data correctly. .................. 58
The X5DR doesn’t transmit MIDI Exclusive messages. ............................. 59
Performance Applications ........................................................................................... 60
Tuning the X5DR to Other Musical Instruments ........................................ 60
Changing the Key Velocity Sensitivity ....................................................... 60
Changing the Note Range ............................................................................ 60
Adjusting Effects while Playing .................................................................. 60
Changing the Sequence of Programs or Combinations ............................... 60
Combining Multiple Programs .................................................................... 60
Changing the Controller Functions in Combinations .................................. 61
Playing the Keyboard in Split Mode ........................................................... 61
Selecting a Particular Sound Quickly .......................................................... 61
Using a Different Scale ................................................................................ 61
Editing Applications .................................................................................................... 62
Editing the Sounds ....................................................................................... 62
Copying Effect Settings ............................................................................... 62
Editing the Sound from a Computer ............................................................ 62
Restoring the Parameter Values to the Factory Settings ............................. 62
Saving Sound Data ...................................................................................... 62
MIDI Applications ...................................................................................................... 63
Playing Multiple parts from a Sequencer .................................................... 63
Creating a GM Song .................................................................................... 63
Using Two X5DR’s (Using 128 Voices) ..................................................... 63
Convenient Functions .................................................................................................. 64
Page Memory ............................................................................................... 64
[ ▲
]/[ ▼ ] buttons ........................................................................................... 64
5. About MIDI
What is MIDI? ............................................................................................................. 65
MIDI Connectors .............................................................................................. 65
MIDI Channel ................................................................................................... 65
MIDI Information ........................................................................................................ 66
Channel Message .............................................................................................. 66
Note On/Off ................................................................................................. 66
Program Change .......................................................................................... 66
Pitch Bend .................................................................................................... 67
After Touch .................................................................................................. 67
Control Change ............................................................................................ 68
System Messages .............................................................................................. 73
System Exclusive messages ......................................................................... 73
About the MIDI Filter ................................................................................................. 75

Table of Contents
x
Reference Guide
Parameter Guide
About this chapter ....................................................................................................... 77
1. Program Parameters
Functions in Program Mode ........................................................................................78
2. COMBINATION Parameters
Functions in COMBINATION mode ........................................................................ 100
3. Multi Setup Parameters
Multi Setup Functions ............................................................................................... 107
4. Effect Parameters
Effect Parameter ........................................................................................................115
5. Global Parameters
Functions in Global Mode .........................................................................................146
Appendix
General Error Messages ............................................................................................ 161
Program Edit Mode & Combination Edit Mode Error Messages ............................. 161
Specifications ............................................................................................................161
Options ......................................................................................................................161
MIDI Data Format .....................................................................................................163
Program Change and Bank Select Reception in Combination Play Mode ............... 172
PC Interface Technical Information Chart ................................................................172
MIDI Panpot, Send Data ........................................................................................... 173
Wiring Diagram of Dedicated Connecting Cables ....................................................173
Installing and Setting Up the KORG MIDI Driver ...................................................174
Installing the KORG MIDI Driver in MS Windows .................................................174
Setting Up the KORG MIDI Driver (Windows) .......................................................176
Installing the KORG MIDI Driver on a Macintosh Computer ................................. 177
Setting Up the KORG MIDI Driver for the Macintosh .............................................178
MIDI File Translator ................................................................................................. 179
MIDI Implementation Chart ......................................................................................180
INDEX........................................................................................................................182
Voice Name List ........................................................................................................185

About this manual
xi
About this manual
This manual consists of the following chapters to enable you to extract information relevant to
your environment and applications.
Start-up Guide
This chapter explains the set-up procedure and basic operation of the X5DR. This chapter is
divided into two sections: “Using a Keyboard”and “Using a Computer/Sequencer.”Read the
“Using a Keyboard”section if you use the X5DR as an extended tone generator for your MIDI
keyboard. Read the “Using a Computer/Sequencer" section if you use a computer music system
or MIDI sequencer.
Basic Guide
This chapter explains the X5DR's configuration and modes. Read this chapter after you have
mastered the basic operations described in the Start-up Guide. This chapter also explains how to
edit Programs to create new sounds. Refer to this chapter to make the best use of the versatile
functions and various sounds of the X5DR.
Reference Guide
This chapter explains the function of each mode and the parameters of the X5DR in detail.
<<About MIDI>>
This manual assumes that you have a basic knowledge of MIDI. If you are using a synthesizer or
a MIDI device for the first time, read the section entitled “5. About MIDI”in the Basic Guide.
Note: The Program, Combination, and Multi Track Program names shown on the LCD screen in
this manual are assumed names, and do not necessarily match the names found on the X5DR.
Start-up Guide
Using a Keyboard
Using a Computer/Sequencer
Basic Guide
Reference Guide
1
1
22
33
Using the X5DR as
an extended tone
generator for a MIDI
keyboard:
Using the X5DR
with a computer
music system or
sequencer:

About this manual
xii

Start-up Guide
1
Using a
Keyboard
Start-up Guide
Start-up Guide
Using a Keyboard
Connections
DC IN 12V
700mA TO HOST THRU OUT
MIDI IN
R L/MONO
OUTPUT
To the power outlet
DC IN
AC Adapter
Powered monitor
(such as the PM-15)
RL/MONO
MIDI OUT
MIDI cable
MIDI keyboard
Volume pedal Damper pedal
Connecting to a power source
1
Connect the AC adapter plug
to the DC IN connector on the
rear panel. Then, plug the AC
adapter into an AC outlet.
VOLUME
100
PHONES MIDI EDI
COM
Headphones
PHONES
Connecting a monitor
2
Connect the OUTPUT jacks to
a powered monitor or stereo
amplifier.
* Use the L/MONO jack for
monaural connection.
Connecting a MIDI keyboard
3
Connect the MIDI OUT jack of the MIDI
keyboard to the MIDI IN jack of the X5DR
using a MIDI cable.
* Refer to “MIDI keyboard settings” (page 2).
Powered monitor/stereo amplifier
In order to playback the X5DR's high-fidelity sound, we recommend that you connect the X5DR to
powered monitors (i.e., speakers with built-in amplifiers, such as the optional PM-15). If you are going
to connect a stereo amplifier or other device (such as a stereo radio or a cassette tape recorder), use
the connector labeled “LINE IN” or “AUX IN” on those devices.
!
Secure the AC adapter
cable by hooking it as
shown in the illustration to
prevent the adapter plug
from being accidentally
removed.
To use the headphones, plug the
headphone cable into the PHONES jack
on the front panel.
If you connect the X5DR to a domestic hi-fi system, be careful not to raise the volume level too
high, or you may damage the speakers.
Using a
Keyboard
Start-up Guide

Start-up Guide
2
MIDI Keyboard Settings
Use the following MIDI keyboard transmit settings before you play the X5DR from a connected
keyboard. Refer to the MIDI keyboard manual for detailed settings.
• The X5DR is a MIDI tone module that receives MIDI data sent from external MIDI devices
(such as a MIDI keyboard, computer, or sequencer) to playback data. Refer to the section
“Using a Computer/Sequencer”on page 9 for details when you wish to play the X5DR from a
connected computer or sequencer.
MIDI transmit channel
Set the MIDI keyboard transmit channel to “1.”If you wish to use a different MIDI transmit
channel on the MIDI keyboard, you must change the MIDI receive channel on the X5DR
accordingly.
• If you cannot change the MIDI keyboard transmit channel (in other words, if its MIDI channel
is fixed), set the Global MIDI Channel on the X5DR to the same number as the MIDI transmit
channel on the MIDI keyboard.
MIDI transmit filter
MIDI keyboards allow you to transmit various MIDI data.
The X5DR can receive the following MIDI messages:
● Note On/Off (Note message) --- Very basic message for keyboard performance.
● Program Change message --- Changes Programs.
● Control Change --- Controller and performance mode message.
● Pitch Bend --- Bender (joystick, wheel, lever) pitch variation message.
● After Touch (Channel Pressure) --- Information about pressing the keys after a note has been
struck.
• Not all MIDI keyboards can transmit the MIDI messages listed above. When you are playing
the X5DR, it will receive only MIDI data that can be sent from a connected MIDI keyboard.
For example, if you are using a MIDI keyboard that does not transmit Pitch Bend messages
(such as a digital piano), you cannot achieve a pitch bend effect.

Start-up Guide
3
Using a
Keyboard
Start-up Guide
Listening to a Demo performance
VOLUME
100
PHONES MIDI EDIT GLOBAL
MULTI PAGE-
+10 +1
COMBI PROG BANK
PAGE+
-10 -1 POWER
VOLUME
Adjusting the volume level
2
Turning the power on/off
1
Press the power switch to turn the X5DR
power on. Pressing the power
switch again will turn the power off.
!Make sure that the connected powered
speaker or stereo amplifier is turned off
before you power-on the X5DR.
X5DR 00:SolarFlare
A30 A99 A19 A39
Demo performance
3
EDIT GLOBAL
MULTI PAGE-
+10 +1
COMBI PROG BANK
PAGE+
-10 -1
Press the [COMBI] button and [EDIT] button
simultaneously.
Demo Play
Press any key
■To enter Demo mode:
■Combination Play mode
The X5DR automatically enters Combination Play mode
when you turn the power on.
EDIT GLOBAL
MULTI PAGE-
+10 +1
COMBI PROG BANK
PAGE+
-10 -1
00:SolarFlare
A30 A99 A19 A39
■To quit Demo mode:
Press one of the following buttons when playback is stopped.
■Operation in Demo mode
EDIT GLOBAL
MULTI PAGE-
+10 +1
COMBI PROG BANK
PAGE+
-10 -1
Demo Song 1: AROUND THE WORLD
Demo Song 2: WE’VE GOT DREAMS
The X5DR will play back Demo song 1, then Demo song 2.
Press the [COMBI] button to playback Demo
song 1.
Press the [PROG] button to playback Demo
song 2.
To listen to playback:
*
If you wish to stop the demo song, press any
button.
To stop playback:
The X5DR will repeat playback of
Demo songs 1 and 2.
Press the [EDIT] button to play demo songs 1
and 2 consecutively. Press the
[GLOBAL]/[MULTI] button to repeat the demo
songs in an endless loop.
When you turn the X5DR power on, the
screen will show the opening message
for a few seconds, then show the
Combination Play mode indication.
* The X5DR will quit Demo
mode, and enter
Combination Play mode.
Pressing one of
these buttons will
stop playback.
Use the VOLUME knob to set the optimum volume
level.
* The headphone volume level will be adjusted at
the same time.
* Four indicators will
flash in Demo mode.
Listen to and enjoy the wonderful sound, the
versatile tone, and the rich expressiveness of the
Korg X5DR.
The X5DR has two internal songs that
demonstrate the X5DR's features. You can
play back these songs on the X5DR.
Demo Song 1: AROUND THE WORLD By Stephen Kay
Demo Song 2: WE’VE GOT DREAMS By KORG Inc.

Start-up Guide
4
Playing Programs
The X5DR has two types of sounds: Programs and Combinations. First we will listen to some
Programs.
VOLUME
100
PHONES MIDI EDIT GLOBAL
MULTI PAGE-
+10 +1
COMBI PROG BANK
PAGE+
-10 -1 POWER
Program Play mode
1
Program Play mode enables you to play Programs.
Press the [PROG] button to enter Program Play mode.
A00:PipeDreams
Program name
Program number
Program Bank
The display shows the Program
Bank number, Program number,
and Program name.
Changing Programs (1)
2
Use the [BANK], [+10]/[–10], and [+1]/[–1]
buttons to change Programs.
MIDI OUT
MIDI keyboard
MIDI IN
EDIT GLOBAL
MULTI PAGE-
+10 +1
COMBI PROG BANK
PAGE+
-10 -1
Pressing the [BANK] button repeatedly
toggles between Program Bank A and Bank G.
Pressing the [+10] or [–10]
button repeatedly increments
or decrements a Program
number by 10.
Pressing the [+1] or [–1] button
repeatedly increments or
decrements a Program
number by 1.
The X5DR has 100 Programs in Bank A (A00–99),
and 136 Programs in Bank G (G01–136), for a total
of 236 Programs.
Bank A
A00–99 Bank G G01–136
Changing Programs (2)
3
When you wish to change Programs from a connected
MIDI keyboard (or external MIDI device), you must
send Program Change messages (and also Bank
Select messages if you wish to change the Bank).
While Bank A is selected:
Sending Program Change messages 0–99 will select
Programs A00–99.
While Bank G is selected:
Sending Program Change messages 0–127 will select
Programs G01–128.
* To select Programs G129–136, send Bank Select
messages to change the Bank.
* Send the Bank Select messages to change the
Banks between A and G. (See page 22, 68.)
Listen to various Programs by changing Program
numbers.
* When the X5DR is shipped from the factory,
Bank A contains Preset a Programs. (See page
20, 156.)

Start-up Guide
5
Using a
Keyboard
Start-up Guide
If No Sound is Produced:
If no sound is produced from the X5DR when you play the MIDI keyboard, or if you cannot
change Programs, check the following items:
No sound is produced:
●
Check to see if the Demo songs can be played. If not, check to see if the volume level of the X5DR
and the connected powered monitor or stereo amplifier is sufficient. Ensure that the audio cable is
connected correctly.
●
If the Demo songs can be played back, confirm that the unit is in Program Play mode. In Demo
mode, you cannot play Programs.
●
Check the MIDI cable connections and MIDI transmit channel on the MIDI keyboard. Set the
MIDI transmit channel of the MIDI keyboard to 1. If you cannot change the MIDI transmit
channel of the MIDI keyboard (if it is fixed), change the X5DR’s MIDI receive channel on page
2A MIDI GLOBAL in Global mode. (See page 151).
If you cannot change Programs:
●
If you cannot change Programs from the connected MIDI keyboard, check the transmit functions
on the MIDI keyboard. Some MIDI keyboards can be set so that they will not transmit any
Program Change messages. Some MIDI keyboards cannot transmit Bank Select messages, and
some interpret Bank Select messages differently from the X5DR. Check the transmit function of
your MIDI keyboard.
●
You can set the X5DR so that it will not receive Program Change or Bank Select messages. (The
default setting is to receive both messages.) If Programs are not changed when the MIDI keyboard
transmits Program Change or Bank Select messages, check the MIDI FILTER setting on page 2C
Global mode. (See page 152.)
Program Examples
The X5DR has 100 Programs (A00–99) in BankA and 136 Programs (G01–136) in Bank G. Play
and listen to a variety of Programs. The following Programs exemplify the unique sound of the
X5DR. Take a listen to the following Programs.
A01:X Piano
This acoustic piano sound simulates a real piano—even the sound produced when the
hammer hits the string. Notice how dynamically the volume level and tonal color of the
sound varies, depending on key velocity (how strongly you strike the keys on the MIDI
keyboard). Playing the keyboard hard will make a bright sparkling sound, and playing it
softly will make a calmer sound. The simulation ranges from metallic lows to a short, hard
attack in the high range. The polyphony of 64 voices on the X5DR allows you to play
glissando and damper pedal effects.
A02:BigStrings
This Program recreates the dignified sound of a string section (including violin, viola, and
cello). The attack of the sound changes depending on the key velocity. Playing the keyboard
softly slows the attack, and playing the keyboard hard will make the attack very fast. With
a fast key velocity, it simulates an immediate attack and a bright sound with a subtle touch
of bow attack, allowing for a variety of performance expressions through key touch.
A08:Xanalog
This is a brass sound (such as trumpet or trombone) created on an analog synthesizer,
generallyknownas Synth Brass.You will alsonotice howdynamicallythe volumelevel and
tonal color of the sound varies depending on the key velocity and key range. This Program
is suitable for playing chords. Although the X5DR is an all-digital synthesizer, it is also
good at old classic analog sounds.

Start-up Guide
6
A09:[KrazyKit]
This is a Program for a rhythm part (Drum Program), with a different sound assigned to
each key on the keyboard.TheA09:[KrazyKit] Program contains not only drum sounds but
human voices and various effect sounds.When you play key C3 on the keyboard, the sound
does not stop—rather, the sound volume increases. Play key B2 to stop this sound.
A17:Velo Flute
This Program is a unique sound that simulates the sound of a flute. Play this Program with
different key velocities to change the tonal expression.You can also add vibrato effects by
sending modulation information.
A37:FreshWaves
This Program has a sparkling attack, unique to digital synthesizers. The X5DR offers
metallic and clear sounds, such as in this Program. Key touch affects the brightness of the
sound. It is very effective when used like an electric piano.
A84:FeedbackGt
This is a powerful distorted guitar sound (amplifier distortion). As the name suggests, the
sound gradually changes to feedback. It sounds a lot like a guitar with a fully-cranked amp.
Try some guitar solos using modulation and pitch bend. The Delay effect can also be used
to great advantage.
A90:Universe X
This fantastic synth sound combines the soft sound of a female chorus with a sparkling
tremolo-like sound. Combine different types of sounds for interesting variations, and
expand your collection of creative sounds.
The Programs described above represent only a few of the Preset a Programs.Try several different
Programs and enjoy the great sounds of the X5DR.
<<About Drum Kits>>
The following Programs use a Drum Kit: A09:[KrazyKit], A19:[ComboKit], and G129:GM Kit
through G136:Orch Kit.
A Drum Kit is a Program that consists of different drum sounds assigned to each key on the
keyboard. Therefore, one Drum Kit can play various drum and percussion sounds, instead of
playing scales. The X5DR has 8 Drum Kits in ROM and 2 Drum Kits in RAM. To play one of
these kits, select one in a Program. (First, set 0A OSC Mode in Program Edit mode to DRUMS,
then select the desirable kit for 1A OSC1 SOUND.) (See page 53, 79, 80).You can edit the sound
key assignments and settings of the Drum Kits in Global mode. (See page 53, 158).
<<About Preset Data>>
The X5DR has high quality preset sound data. There are two types of preset data: PRE-a and
PRE-b, and each contains 100 Programs, 100 Combinations, and 2 Drum Kits. Preset data PRE-a
is pre-loaded as the factory setting. To listen to or use PRE-b sounds, you need to load the preset
data PRE-b. Refer to “Loading Preset Data”on page 20, 156 for details.

Start-up Guide
7
Using a
Keyboard
Start-up Guide
Playing Combinations
Combinations are another type of sound on the X5DR. We will listen to some Combinations now.
A Combination consists of several Programs.You can play different Programs by applying a
different key touch on the keyboard, or you can use Combinations to obtain a more complex
sound.
VOLUME
100
PHONES MIDI EDIT GLOBAL
MULTI PAGE-
+10 +1
COMBI PROG BANK
PAGE+
-10 -1 POWER
Combination Play mode
1
Changing Combinations (1)
2
Use the [+10]/[–10] or the [+1]/[–1] buttons to
change Combinations.
MIDI OUT
MIDI keyboard
MIDI IN
EDIT GLOBAL
MULTI PAGE-
+10 +1
COMBI PROG BANK
PAGE+
-10 -1
Pressing the [+10] or [–10]
button repeatedly increments
or decrements a Combination
number by 10.
Pressing the [+1] or [–1] button
each time increments or
decrements a Combination
number by 1.
The X5DR has 100 Combinations (00–99).
Combinations
00–99
Changing Combinations (2)
3
Combination name
Combination number
Programs used for Timbres 1–4Programs used for
Timbres 5–8
The “*”mark appears for
Timbres 5–8.
00:SolarFlare
A30 A99 A19 A39 00:SolarFlareX* A78 OFF A70 A28
COMBI
■What is Combination?
You can play Combinations in Combination Play mode.
Press the [COMBI] button to enter Combination Play mode.
A Combination is a sound that consists of
up to eight Programs. Combinations allow
you to:
•Produce a thick and complex sound by
layering multiple Programs (Layer)
•Produce the sound of different Programs
depending on the range of the keyboard
(Split)
•Play different Programs by applying a
different key touch to the keyboard
(Velocity Switch).
Try different key ranges and key
velocities.
When you wish to change Combinations from a
connected MIDI keyboard, you need to send
Program Change messages.
Sending Program Change messages 0–99 will
select Combinations 00–99 respectively.
Listen to various Combinations by changing the
Combination numbers.
* When the X5DR is shipped from the factory, it
has Preset a Combinations. (See page 20,
156)