Red Sound DarkStar User manual

INTRODUCTION
DARKSTAR SYNTHESIS
Thank you for purchasing the RED Sound DARKSTAR 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer.
The Analogue Synthesiser, mainstay of Seventies' and Eighties' music, is back, reinvented in a new, more reliable
and flexible form. Physical modelling via powerful DSPs (Digital Signal Processors) allow all the warmth and control
of the synthesizers of yesteryear without the problems of unstable tuning and unrepeatable sounds, and with
modern benefits like realtime control and multitimbral access.
Welcome to DARKSTAR, an 8-voice polyphonic synthesiser with all the highlights of the analogue tradition, Pulse
Width Modulation, Ring Mod, Resonant Filtering and ADSR Enveloping, combined with all the advantages of
modern MIDI instruments like rock-solid tuning, perfect program recall, velocity response and 5 different timbres
simultaneously available.
So whether your aim is to recreate 'classic' timbres like 70's Disco Bassline / Screaming PWM Lead, chart new
sonic territory with realtime joystick manipulation of ring modulation and velocity controlled resonance, or even
combine both approaches in the same MIDI sequence, DARKSTAR is the perfect tool for you.
In the future, DARKSTAR's capabilities will grow thanks to the ability to change its EPROM-based DSP algorithms.
This will allow you to convert DARKSTAR into many different products such as a mega-mono synthesizer or
vocoder.
But DARKSTAR already offers so much with its marriage of proven synthesis techniques and state-of-the-art
control. Now it's time to unlock the potential of analogue-style synthesis with modern control techniques in your
music.
Be creative!
OWNERS MANUAL
1
DarkStar
8 VOICE POLYPHONIC SYNTHESIZER

2
FRONT PANELFRONT PANEL
8
1
3
OUTPUT
2
4
7
DarkStar Synthesizer
PARAMETER
AUDITION
PROGRAM
BANK
MIXER
4321
87
FILTER TYPE RES MOD SOURCE
PULSE ENV1 ENV2
SINE HI
SAMPLE LFO1
RANDOM LFO2
SQUARE BAND
TRI LO
RAMP OFF
UTILITY
DELAY RESONANCE
SPEED FREQUENCY
(RES MOD)(FILTER TYPE)
(LFO 2 MOD)
(MIDI CLOCK)
SHAPE ENV MOD
Envelope 1
LFO1
(SHIFT)
Envelopes
Filter
(SHIFT)
Max Max
Max
Max
LFO’s
LEVEL
EXT.
INPUT
(SHIFT) EDIT
21
MENU
PROG
Envelope 2
LFO2 Filter Off Filter On
DOWN
MENU
VALUE
VALUE
MENU
UP
(SHIFT)
Min Min
Min
Min
OSC 2 SEMITONE OFFSET
1716 19 24
12750
PITCH MODWAVEFORM DETUNEPULSE WIDTH
Oscillators
Oscillator 1 Oscillator2
VELOCITY LEVEL
54 6 7
3210
DECAYATTACK RELEASESUSTAIN
MaxMaxMax Max
MinMinMin Min
PART SELECT
DarkStarDarkStar
8 VOICE POLYPHONIC SYNTHESIZER
OSC 1 OSC 2
MODULATION
Max
Min
RING
OSCILLATORSEDIT MODULATIONMIDI
LFOOUTPUTFILTER
3
65
BANK PROG
54
PORTA/TRIGGERPART
/VALUE
11 10
6 5
12
(PWM)
MaxMin
(OSC 2 PITCH)
0 0
Max+10 +2
Semitones
-2
Semitones
-10
www.redsound.com
RED
LFO SHAPE
0
+10-10
(0)
(+10)(-10)
(VELOCITY)
PART
OUTPUT
9
PANNINGLEVEL PORTAMENTOTREMOLO
OffOff
-- ++

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
OSCILLATORS:
ENVELOPES:
LFO’S:
FILTER:
PART SELECT:
MENU:
AUDITION:
PROGRAM:
PART OUTPUT:
PARAMETER/VALUE DISPLAY:
MIXER:
UTILITY:
This section features [WAVEFORM], [PITCH MOD], [PULSE WIDTH] and [DETUNE] controls
for each oscillator. The large [OSCILLATOR] button switches between oscillators1&2.The[SHIFT] button is used
to access the [OSC 2 PITCH] and [PWM] controls in the oscillator sub-menu.
This section features [ATTACK], [DECAY], [SUSTAIN] and [RELEASE] controls for each
envelope. The large [ENVELOPE] button switches between envelopes1&2.The[SHIFT] button is used to access
the [VELOCITY] control in the envelope sub-menu.
This section features [SPEED], [DELAY] and [SHAPE] controls for each LFO. The large [LFO] button
switches between LFO1&2.The[SHIFT] button is used to access the [MIDI CLOCK] control in the LFO sub-
menu.
This section features [FREQUENCY], [RESONANCE] and [ENV MOD] controls for the filter. The large
[FILTER] button switches the filter on and off. The [SHIFT] button is used to access the [FILTER TYPE], [RES MOD]
and [LFO 2 MOD] controls in the oscillator sub-menu.
These buttons are used to select the 5 Multitimbral ‘PARTS’. You can create and store 5 totally
different sounds in each program.
This section features 8 menu buttons and a 4-way keypad. The MENU buttons are used to select
additional parameters for editing whilst the [EDIT] keypad is used to scroll up and down the menu and change the
values.
This button can be used to trigger the currently selected PART.
This section features the [PROGRAM] and [BANK] buttons which are used to select the 8 banks of
8 programs (total programs = 64).
This button is used to access the [LEVEL], [PANNING], [TREMOLO] and [PORTAMENTO]
parameters for each individual PART.
This 4-digit LED display shows bank/program numbers, parameter
information and edit values.
The joystick mixer adjusts the balance between OSCILLATORS 1 and 2 (or external input) and also
sets the amount of RING MODULATION.
This button is used to access the SYSTEM EXCLUSIVE utility parameters.
FRONT PANEL FEATURESFRONT PANEL FEATURES
3
FRONT PANEL FEATURES
OWNERS MANUAL

1 2 3 4 5
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
EXTERNAL INPUTS 1&2 - RCA Phono Connectors
STEREO OUTPUT - RCA Phono Connectors
MIDI IN/OUT/THRU - Connectors
POWER - Switch
DC POWER IN - Connector
Use these sockets to connect any external line level sound sources to DARKSTAR for filter/envelope processing.
Use these sockets to connect DARKSTAR to your mixing desk or amplification system.
MIDI data will be transmitted and received by these connectors.
This turns the power on and off.
Only use the 9vDC 800 mA PSU supplied with DARKSTAR to power the unit.
REAR PANELREAR PANEL
4
DarkStar Synthesizer
MIDI
OUT INTHRU
MADE IN ENGLAND
OUTEXT.
INPUT
1 L
2 R
POWER
9v DCOFF
ON
CAUTION: DO NOT OPEN CASE
REFER TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
DarkStarDarkStar
www.redsound.com
RED
8 VOICE POLYPHONIC SYNTHESIZER
+
-
RED Sound Systems Ltd

5
OWNERS MANUAL
CONNECTIONSCONNECTIONS
MIDI
OUT INTHRU
MADE IN ENGLAND
OUTEXT.
INPUT
1 L
2 R
POWER
9v DCOFF
ON
CAUTION: DO NOT OPEN CASE
REFER TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
DarkStarDarkStar
www.redsound.com
RED
8 VOICE POLYPHONIC SYNTHESIZER
+
-
RED Sound Systems Ltd
MIDI IN
MIDI IN
MIDI OUT
MIDI SEQUENCER
MIDI KEYBOARD
OTHER MIDI DEVICE
STUDIO MIXING DESK
EXTERNAL MIDI DRIVEN SOUND SOURCE 1
EXTERNAL MIDI DRIVEN SOUND SOURCE 2
RL
TO
AC WALL
SOCKET
RED PSU

QUICK START
GETTING STARTED
If you want to quickly try out the performance of DARKSTAR, please read the following points carefully:
Before making any connections, make sure that the power on all your equipment is turned OFF.
Connect the power supply (included) to the ‘power in’ socket on the rear panel of DARKSTAR and plug it into a
suitable AC outlet. Connect the audio cables for a basic system setup as shown on page 5.
Make sure all connections have been made correctly and the volume controls on the
mixing desk and amplifier system are turned completely down. Press the rear panel power switch on DARKSTAR.
Turn on the power of the mixing desk and then turn on the power of the amplifier system.
When DARKSTAR is powered up, the main display will show the software version
whilst various parameters are being set internally. When this process is complete, the display will show the BANK
and PROGRAM number. If this does not happen, check the power supply is of the correct type and the unit was
switched on correctly.
To select the correct MIDI receive channel press the [MIDI] MENU
button and use the [EDIT] keypad [VALUE +] and [VALUE -] buttons to set the channel of the active PART (as
DARKSTAR can have up to 5 different sounds/MIDI channels setup in each PROGRAM you may have to change
the MIDI transmit channel on your keyboard a few times to play all the sounds).
To select the factory programs in BANK 1, press and hold the [PROGRAM] button
(LED on) and then press one of the buttons marked 1-8. To select one of the other 7 banks of 8 programs press
and hold the [PROGRAM] button then press the [BANK] button. Now you can select one of the 8 programs in the
new bank using the buttons marked 1-8 (
).
Use the [AUDITION] button or connected MIDI keyboard to trigger the sounds. You can modify the sounds in real-
time by altering the controls in the OSCILLATOR, FILTER, ENVELOPE and LFO sections.
Please read the following “OPERATION” section carefully to fully appreciate the range of features and facilities the
DARKSTAR 8-Voice Synthesizer has to offer.
After connecting DARKSTAR to your system as detailed on page 5, press in the power switch on the rear panel to
turn the power on. As the software is initialising (takes approximately 12 seconds) rows of indicators will light in
sequence and the version number fitted to your unit will be shown on the main display:
Afterwards, the last selected program (before power was switched off at the previous session) will be recalled and
displayed as follows:
CONNECTIONS:
TURNING ON THE POWER:
POWER UP INDICATIONS:
SETTING THE MIDI RECEIVE CHANNEL:
SELECTING A PROGRAM:
keep your finger on the [PROGRAM] button at all times when selecting
programs/banks
NOTE: Banks 1 to 6 (48 programs) feature factory presets that demonstrate the sonic power of DARKSTAR.
Programs in banks 7 and 8 all contain the same basic sound ready for you to overwrite with newly created sounds.
QUICK STARTQUICK START
6
DarkStar Synthesizer
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
Software version = 1.01
Bank 4
Program 6
BANK
BANK
PROG
PROG

OSCILLATOR SECTION
OSCILLATOR SELECT button
WAVEFORM
This section of DARKSTAR produces the musical tones which form the basis of subtractive synthesis. There are
two oscillators per ‘voice’ (musical note), each producing audible vibrations to act as a sound source. The timbre of
each oscillator depends on its harmonic content which is determined by the waveform. There are basically two
waveforms available, SAWTOOTH and RISING, each with its own specific set of harmonics.
Controls for changing the amount of modulation to the pitch timbre of the oscillators are also included in this
section. These timbral and pitch modulations give the oscillator sound more depth and stimulate musical appeal to
the ear.
This large button switches between oscillator 1 and 2. When the indicator is OFF, oscillator 1 will be selected.
When the indicator is ON, oscillator 2 will be selected.
This control has two functions determined by the [SHIFT] button.
When the [SHIFT] function is (SHIFT LED Off) this control sets the selected oscillator’s waveform.
At the fully anti-clockwise position ( ) the waveform will be shaped like a SAWTOOTH. This waveform contains
every harmonic in decreasing volume and produces a very rich sound. As the control is moved in a clockwise
direction the shape progressively changes, becoming more and more ‘squared-off’ until, at the fully clockwise
position ( ) the shape will be a SQUARE or ‘pulse’ waveform. As a pure square wave (max and min values equal)
the harmonic content will be all the odd-numbered harmonics in decreasing volume which gives the sound a hollow
or ‘woody’ timbre. The width of the pulse can also be altered by the [PULSE WIDTH] knob to make the sound
thinner.
When the [SHIFT] function is selected (SHIFT LED Flashing) this control sets the amount of oscillator 2 pitch
offset. This detune setting is calibrated in semitones with the eight indicators labelled [OSC 2 SEMITONE OFFSET]
showing the value, as in the following example:
(OSC 2 PITCH)
NOT selected ,
,
7
OWNERS MANUAL
OPERATIONOPERATION
(SHIFT)
(SHIFT)
OSC 2 SEMITONE OFFSET
OSC 2 SEMITONE OFFSET
17
17
16
16
19
19
24
24
12
12
7
7
5
5
0
00
Oscillators
Oscillators
Oscillator 1 Oscillator2
Example:
Oscillator 2 pitch offset =
12 semitones (1 octave)
WAVEFORM
(OSC 2 PITCH)
PITCH MODWAVEFORM DETUNEPULSE WIDTH
(PWM)
MaxMin
(OSC 2 PITCH)
0 0
+10 +2
Semitones
-2
Semitones
-10
Press once
before changing
the setting

8
OPERATIONOPERATION
PITCH MOD
PULSE WIDTH
DETUNE
OSCILLATOR MENU
(PWM)
This control has two functions determined by the [SHIFT] button.
When the [SHIFT] function is (SHIFT LED Off) this control sets the amount of pitch modulation to
the selected oscillator. At the 12 o’clock position there will be no pitch modulation applied. As the knob is moved in
an anti-clockwise direction the pitch modulation will become negative, first falling then rising. At the fully anti-
clockwise position the modulation will be at its maximum negative depth. As the knob is moved in a clockwise
direction from the centre position, the pitch modulation will become positive, first rising then falling. At the fully
clockwise position the modulation will be at its maximum positive depth. See [OSCILLATOR] menu section below
for further details on the pitch modulation source.
When the [SHIFT] function is selected (SHIFT LED Flashing) this control sets the amount of pulse width
modulation or PWM for the selected oscillator when its [WAVEFORM] is set to SQUARE ( ). The PWM
SOURCE can be set to LFO1, LFO2, ENV1 or ENV2 (see [OSCILLATOR] menu) with negative and positive
modulations available. At the 12 o’clock position there will be no PWM. As the knob is moved in an anti-clockwise
direction the variation in the pulse width will become more and more pronounced in a negative manner.Asthe
knob is moved in a clockwise direction the variation in the pulse width will become more and more pronounced in a
positive manner.
This control sets the actual width of the pulse. At the fully anti-clockwise position the fundamental will be at its
minimum producing an extremely thin sound. As the knob is moved in a clockwise direction the pulse width gets
wider, with progressively less high harmonics being added giving the sound a fuller timbre. At the fully clockwise
position the minimum and maximum values of the pulse width will be equal.
This control sets the fine tuning for each oscillator. At the 12 o’clock position the oscillators tuning will be
unaffected. As the knob is moved in an anti-clockwise direction the oscillators tuning will become more ‘Flat’, with a
total negative detune of - 2 semitones available at the fully anti-clockwise position. As the knob is moved in a
clockwise direction the oscillators tuning will become more ‘Sharp’, with a total positive detune of + 2 semitones
available at the fully clockwise position. Small variations in the oscillators relative tuning will fatten up a sound
giving it a rich texture. Larger amounts of detuning create a more extreme effect.
This section contains the remaining functions for the oscillators. To access these settings, press the MENU button
labelled [OSCILLATORS], as shown in the following example:
The indicator in the [OSCILLATOR] button will light and the main display will now alternate between the first
function and its current value, as shown below:
There are 4 functions in the oscillator menu with multiple settings as detailed in the following paragraphs.
This function allows you to derive the selected oscillator’s PITCH modulation from
one of four different sources. The selections are:
NOT selected ,
,
1. Pitch Modulation Source:
DarkStar Synthesizer
MENU
DOWN
MENU
VALUE
VALUE
MENU
UP
OSCILLATORSEDIT MODULATIONMIDILFOOUTPUTFILTER PORTA/TRIGGERPART
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
First selection =
Envelope 1
Function =
Pitch Modulation
source
BANK BANKPROG PROG
Display alternates
between

9
OWNERS MANUAL
OPERATIONOPERATION
Envelope1 -
Envelope 2 -
LFO1 -
LFO2 -
2. Pulse Width Modulation source:
Envelope1 -
Envelope 2 -
LFO1 -
LFO2 -
3. Oscillator 2 source:
Type 1(normal oscillator) -
Type 2(Formant style oscillator) -
Noise1(Pink) -
Noise 2(White) -
Noise 3(Blue) -
External Input1&2 -
4. Oscillator Sync:
The settings of envelope 1 controls will affect the oscillators pitch.
The settings of envelope 2 controls will affect the oscillators pitch.
The settings of the LFO1 controls will affect the oscillators pitch.
The settings of the LFO2 controls will affect the oscillators pitch.
This function allows you to link the selected oscillator’s PULSE WIDTH
modulation to one of four different sources. The selections are:
The settings of envelope 1 controls will affect the oscillators pulse width modulation.
The settings of envelope 2 controls will affect the oscillators pulse width modulation.
The settings of the LFO1 controls will affect the oscillators pulse width modulation.
The settings of the LFO2 controls will affect the oscillators pulse width modulation.
This function allows you to select the sound source for OSCILLATOR 2. The selections are:
This oscillator contains the full range of frequencies.
This oscillator is formed from a limited band of frequencies.
PINK noise has the higher frequencies reduced.
WHITE noise and has all frequencies at an equal level.
BLUE noise has the lower frequencies reduced.
You can switch off all the internal sound generators for oscillator 2 and instead use the rear
panel connectors marked [EXTERNAL INPUTS1-2]toprocess any MIDI driven external sound source through the
filter and envelope sections. See page 29 for further details.
This function synchronises oscillator 2 with oscillator 1. The oscillator 2 waveform will now
restart its cycle each time oscillator 1 starts its own cycle. The result of this keeps the pitch of both oscillators
identical making a distinct change to the timbre. For the best results use envelope 2 to try and move the pitch of
oscillator 2. The pitch cannot change but you will hear timbral changes to the sound with vocal characteristics.
The selections are: ON and OFF.
To change the current oscillator menu setting, use the [EDIT] keypad [VALUE +] and [VALUE - ] buttons as shown in
the following example:
To select a different menu function, use the [MENU DOWN and [MENU UP] buttons. To EXIT oscillator menu mode,
simply press the [OSCILLATOR] MENU button and check that the indicator goes out.
DOWN
DOWN
MENU
MENU
VALUE
VALUE
VALUE
VALUE
MENU
MENU
UP
UP
OSCILLATORS
OSCILLATORS
EDIT
EDIT
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
New Pitch Mod Source =
LFO2
Press 3 times
to change value
Press once to exit
oscillator menu mode
Function =
Pitch Modulation
source
BANK BANKPROG PROG
Display alternates
between
DOWN
MENU
VALUE
VALUE
MENU
UP
OSCILLATORSEDIT
Press the UP and
DOWN buttons to
select MENU functions

10
OPERATIONOPERATION
DarkStar Synthesizer
ENVELOPE SECTION
ENVELOPE SELECT button
ATTACK
DECAY
SUSTAIN
RELEASE
This section of DARKSTAR is used to shape the sound over a period of time with two envelopes available. The first
envelope is fixed to amplitude (or volume) and decides how quickly the sound starts, sustains and then fades away.
The second envelope can be used to control the filter frequency, pulse width or pitch modulations to alter the
character of the sound.
This large button switches between envelope 1 and 2. When the indicator is OFF, envelope 1 will be selected.
When the indicator is ON, envelope 2 will be selected.
This control sets the time period for the envelope to reach its maximum after a note is played. At the fully anti-
clockwise position the response is virtually instantaneous giving a percussive edge to the sound. As the knob is
moved in a clockwise direction the time to reach maximum gradually increases giving a softer start to the sound. At
the fully clockwise position the attack time will be at its maximum.
This control sets the rate at which the envelope falls to the [SUSTAIN] level after the maximum [ATTACK] level has
been reached. At the fully anti-clockwise position the response is virtually instantaneous. As the knob is moved in a
clockwise direction the decay duration gradually increases until, at the fully clockwise position the decay time will
be at its maximum.
This control sets the level of the envelope after the decay element is completed and until the note is released. At
the fully anti-clockwise position the envelope will continue to decay to zero without interruption. As the knob is
moved in a clockwise direction the level at which the decay ends gradually increases until, at the fully clockwise
position the sustain level will be at its maximum.
This control has two functions determined by the [SHIFT] button.
When the [SHIFT] function is (SHIFT LED Off) this control sets the time taken for the sustain level to
reach zero once the note has been released. At the fully anti-clockwise position the response is virtually
instantaneous giving an abrupt end to the sound. As the knob is moved in a clockwise direction the release time
gradually increases resulting in a softer, more natural end to the sound. At the fully clockwise position the release
time will be at its maximum.
(VELOCITY)
NOT selected ,
Envelope 1
(SHIFT)
Envelopes
Envelope 2
VELOCITY LEVEL
54 6 73210
DECAYATTACK RELEASESUSTAIN
MaxMaxMax MaxMinMinMin Min
(VELOCITY)
PANNINGLEVEL PORTAMENTOTREMOLO
OffOff
-- ++

11
OWNERS MANUAL
OPERATIONOPERATION
LFO SECTION
LFO SELECT button
SPEED
This section of DARKSTAR features 2 LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillators) which make regular electronic variations,
too low to be heard when converted into audio vibrations. They can be used independently to alter elements of the
sound by adding vibrato or changes to the harmonic content.
This large button switches between LFO1 and 2. When the indicator is OFF, LFO1 will be selected. When the
indicator is ON, LFO2 will be selected.
This control has two functions determined by the [SHIFT] button.
When the [SHIFT] function is (SHIFT LED Off) this control sets the rate of the selected LFO.NOT selected ,
PULSESINE SAMPLE RANDOMSQUARETRIRAMP
DELAYSPEED
(MIDI CLOCK)
SHAPE
LFO1
(SHIFT)
MaxMax
LFO’s
LFO2
MinMin
LFO SHAPE
When the [SHIFT] function is selected (SHIFT LED Flashing) this control sets how much the selected envelope is
affected by the velocity level. Firmly struck notes will open the envelope to its maximum level whilst softer strokes
will produce a lesser result, dependent on the velocity setting. The eight VELOCITY LEVEL indicators show the
velocity setting for the selected envelope. To change the setting, first press the [SHIFT] button and then move the
[VELOCITY] knob. The indicators will show the value, as shown in the following example:
At the fully anti-clockwise position [indicator 0] there will be no velocity effect, with soft and hard notes each
producing the same, maximum result. As the knob is moved in a clockwise direction [indicators 1 to6]the
envelope will open less and less when softer notes are played until, at the fully clockwise position [indicator 7] the
softest notes will not open the envelope at all. On envelope 1 this maximum setting will make soft notes sound very
quiet whilst on envelope 2 this will result in much less pitch, pulse width or filter modulation.
,
(SHIFT)
VELOCITY LEVEL
54 6 73210
RELEASE
MaxMin
(VELOCITY)
Press once
before changing
the setting
Example: Envelope 1 velocity setting = 5
Envelope 1
Envelopes
Envelope 2

12
OPERATIONOPERATION
DarkStar Synthesizer
At the fully anti-clockwise position the speed will be at its slowest. As the knob is moved in a clockwise direction the
speed gradually increases until, at the fully clockwise position the LFO rate will be at its maximum.
When the [SHIFT] function is selected (SHIFT LED Flashing) this control is used to synchronise the LFO with an
external MIDI clock. The trigger rate can be set to a range of values from 1/8th beat to 4 bars in duration. At the
fully anti-clockwise position the LFO to MIDI synchronisation feature will be OFF. As the knob is moved in a
clockwise direction the trigger rate becomes less frequent until, at the fully clockwise position the LFO will cycle
once every 4 bars.
To view the setting, press the [SHIFT] button. The main display will now show the current value, as shown in the
following example:
To change the setting move the [MIDI CLOCK] knob. The main display will show the new value.
Range = OFF, 1/8bt,1/6bt, 1/4bt, 1/3bt, 1/2bt, 2/3bt, 3/4bt, 1bt, 2bt, 3bt, 1bar, 1.5 bars, 2 bars, 3 bars, 4 bars.
This control sets the time taken for the LFO to be introduced after a note is struck. At the fully anti-clockwise
position the LFO will start immediately. As the knob is moved in a clockwise direction the delay period before the
LFO starts will gradually increase until, at the fully clockwise position the delay time will be at its maximum.
This control selects the waveform which determines the contour of the LFO modulation. There are 8 waveforms to
choose from as follows:
[]
[]
[]
[]
[]
[]
[]
This section contains the remaining functions for the LFOs. To access the LFO settings, press the MENU button
labelled [LFO], as shown in the following example:
The indicator in the [LFO] button will light and the main display will now alternate between the first function and its
current value, as shown below:
,
DELAY
SHAPE
LFO MENU
RAMP
TRI
SQUARE
SINE
PULSE
SAMPLE&HOLD
RANDOM
BANK PROG
LFO to MIDI clock
trigger rate = every ½ beat
LFO 1 waveshape = Sine
PARAMETER
VALUE
PULSESINE SAMPLE RANDOMSQUARETRIRAMP
SHAPE
LFO SHAPE
LFO1
LFO’s
LFO2
MENU
DOWN
MENU
VALUE
VALUE
MENU
UP
OSCILLATORSEDIT MODULATIONMIDILFOOUTPUTFILTER PORTA/TRIGGERPART
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
Setting = ON
Function =
Key Synchronisation
BANK BANKPROG PROG
Display alternates
between

13
The first function in the LFO menu is:
This function sets the LFOs to start from the beginning of the selected waveform each
time a note is played. The selections are:
The waveforms of all LFOs are synchronised but will be free running.
The waveforms of all LFOs are synchronised but will re-start from the beginning of the selected waveshape
each time a note is played.
To EXIT LFO menu mode, simply press the [LFO] MENU button and check that the indicator goes out.
This section of DARKSTAR features a classic 12dB per octave filter which, in subtractive synthesis, is used to
remove unwanted frequencies. There are three different types of filter to choose from, LOW PASS, BAND PASS
and HIGH PASS or the filter can be totally switched off.
This large button switches the filter on and off. When the indicator is OFF the filter will be bypassed. When the
indicator is ON the filter will be active.
This control has two functions determined by the [SHIFT] button.
When the [SHIFT] function is (SHIFT LED Off) this control sets the basic cut-off frequency of the
filter. The affect this control has on the sound depends on the type of filter selected (low, band or high-pass), as
detailed in the following paragraph.
When the [SHIFT] function is selected (SHIFT LED Flashing) this control selects the FILTER TYPE. The four
indicators labelled FILTER TYPE show the current setting at all times. To change the filter type, first press the
[SHIFT] button and then move the [FILTER TYPE] knob. The indicators will show the value, as shown in the
following example:
1. Key Synchronisation:
Off -
On -
FILTER SECTION
FILTER SELECT button
FREQUENCY (FILTER TYPE)
NOT selected ,
,
OWNERS MANUAL
OPERATIONOPERATION
FILTER TYPE RES MOD SOURCE
ENV1 ENV2HI LFO1 LFO2BANDLOOFF
RESONANCEFREQUENCY
(RES MOD)(FILTER TYPE) (LFO 2 MOD)
ENV MOD
Filter
Max
Filter Off Filter On
(SHIFT)
Min
0
+10-10
(0)
(+10)(-10)
LFO
Press once to exit
LFO menu mode
OUTPUT PART

14
OPERATIONOPERATION
At or near the fully anti-clockwise position the LOW PASS filter type will be selected:
This type of filter allows the low frequency elements to pass whilst reducing the higher frequencies as
the FREQUENCY control is moved .
About the 12 o’clock position the BAND PASS filter type will be selected:
This type of filter allows a limited band of frequencies to pass whilst reducing the remaining high and
low frequencies, the filtered frequency band being set by the position of the FREQUENCY control.
At or near the fully clockwise position the HIGH PASS filter type will be selected:
This type of filter allows the high frequency elements to pass whilst reducing the lower frequencies as
the FREQUENCY control is moved
This control has two functions determined by the [SHIFT] button.
When the [SHIFT] function is (SHIFT LED Off) this control sets the boost level of the frequencies
around the cut-off point as set by the FREQUENCY control. At the fully anti-clockwise position there is no boost. As
the control is moved in a clockwise direction the frequencies will be gradually increased until, at the fully clockwise
position, the resonance will reach self-oscillation producing a new pitched element similar to acoustic feedback.
When the [SHIFT] function is selected (SHIFT LED Flashing) this control sets the level of resonance modulation.
At the 12 o’clock position there will be no resonance modulation. As the knob is moved in an anti-clockwise
direction the amount of resonance modulation will become more and more pronounced in a negative manner.As
the knob is moved in a clockwise direction the amount of resonance modulation will become more and more
pronounced in a positive manner - see [FILTER] MENU below for details on selecting the resonance modulation
source.
This control has two functions determined by the [SHIFT] button.
When the [SHIFT] function is (SHIFT LED Off) this control sets the amount of change (depth) of the
cut-off frequency as set by the FREQUENCY control. At the 12 o’clock position there will be no change to the filter
cut-off frequency. As the control is moved in an anti-clockwise direction the filter will be increasingly opened by the
audio modulation in a negative manner. As the knob is moved in a clockwise direction from the centre position the
filter will be increasingly opened by the audio modulation in a positive manner.
When the [SHIFT] function is selected (SHIFT LED Flashing) this control sets the level of LFO 2 modulation. At the
12 o’clock position there will be no LFO 2 modulation applied. As the knob is moved in an anti-clockwise direction
LFO 2 modulation will be applied more and more in a negative manner. As the knob is moved in a clockwise
direction from the centre position LFO 2 modulation will be applied more and more in a positive manner.
LOW-PASS:
BAND-PASS:
HIGH-PASS:
anti-clockwise
clockwise.
NOT selected ,
,
NOT selected ,
,
RESONANCE
ENV MOD
(RES MOD)
(LFO 2 MOD)
DarkStar Synthesizer
FILTER TYPE RES MOD SOURCE
ENV1 ENV2HI LFO1 LFO2BANDLOOFF
FREQUENCY
(FILTER TYPE)
Filter
Max
Filter Off Filter On
(SHIFT)
Min
Press once
before changing
the setting
Example: Filter type = High Pass

15
OPOP
FILTER MENU
This section contains the remaining functions for the filter.To access these settings
labelled [FILTER], as shown in the following example:
The indicator in the [FILTER] button will light and the main display will now alternate
its current value, as shown below:
The functions in the filter menu are:
This function lets you choose whether the filter has the sam
range or has a different effect on the lower and higher notes. This function is applie
change. The selections are:
The keyboard tracking is off and so the filter’seffect will be the same across a
The keyboard tracking is now on. The filter will now open incr
and more for the high notes until the effect is at its maximum when the level is set t
settings included, where the filter will open less for the notes and
This function allows you to derive the filter RE
of four different sources. The selections are:
The settings of envelope 1 controls will affect the resonance modulat
The settings of envelope 2 controls will affect the resonance modula
The settings of the LFO1 controls will affect the resonance modulation.
The settings of the LFO2 controls will affect the resonance modulation.
To select a different menu function, use the [MENU UP and [MENU DOWN] button
To EXIT filter menu mode, simply press the [FILTER] MENU button and check that
1. Keyboard tracking:
0ff -
25, 50, 100, 150% -
- 25 and -50
2. Resonance Modulation Source:
Envelope1 -
Envelope 2 -
LFO1 -
LFO2 -
high
MENU
DOWN
MENU
VALUE
VALUE
MENU
UP
OSCILLATORSEDIT LFOOUTPUTFILTER PORTA/TRIGGERPART
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
Function =
Keyboard tracking
BANK BANKPROG PRO
Display alternates
between
FILTER
Press o
FILTER
OSCILLATORS OUTPUT
DOWN
MENU
VALUE
VALUE
MENU
UP
OSCILLATORSEDIT
Press the UP and
DOWN buttons to
select MENU functions
PARAMETER
VALUE
BANK PRO

16
OPERATIONOPERATION
DarkStar Synthesizer
MIXER Joystick Control
OSCILLATOR 1-2 MIXING
RING MODULATION
The centrally mounted joystick [MIXER] control is a unique feature of DARKSTAR which allows you to mix between
the oscillators (or external sound sources) and ring modulation ‘on-the-fly’ for extra expression and creative power.
The balance between oscillators1&2canbevaried according to the ‘X’ axis (left-to-right) position. To hear
oscillator 1 by itself position the joystick knob at the South-West (lower left) position, as shown in the following
diagram:
To hear oscillator 2 by itself position the joystick knob at the South-East (lower right) position, as shown in the
following diagram:
To hear oscillator1&2together at equal levels, position the joystick knob at the due-South (lower centre) position,
as shown in the following diagram:
Ring modulation occurs when the two sound sources are multiplied together and this gives the resultant sound a
powerful, metallic edge. To introduce ring modulation on both sound sources simultaneously, move the joystick
away from the due-South position, as shown in the following example:
MIXER
MIXER
MIXER
MIXER
Max
Max
Max
Max
Min
Min
Min
Min
OSC 1
OSC 1
OSC 1
OSC 1
OSC 2
OSC 2
OSC 2
OSC 2
MODULATION
MODULATION
MODULATION
MODULATION
Max
Max
Max
Max
Min
Min
Min
Min
RING
RING
RING
RING
Mix position =
Oscillator 1 only
Mix position =
Oscillator 2 only
Mix position =
Oscillator 1&2 balanced

17
OWNERS MANUAL
OPERATIONOPERATION
To introduce high levels of ring modulation on one sound source more than the other, move the joystick away from
the centre line towards the North-West or North-East positions, as shown in the following example:
Try moving the joystick around its axis whilst making changes to the filter [FREQUENCY] and [RESONANCE]
controls to hear how these controls react with one another.
MIXER
Max
Min
OSC 1 OSC 2
MODULATION
Max
Min
RING
Ring Modulation =
maximum setting on both sound sources
MIXER MIXER
Max Max
Min Min
OSC 1 OSC 1OSC 2 OSC 2
MODULATION MODULATION
Max Max
Min Min
RING RING
Ring Modulation =
mainly oscillator 1
Ring Modulation =
mainly oscillator 2

18
OPERATIONOPERATION
DarkStar Synthesizer
MULTITIMBRAL PARTS
This section of DARKSTAR lets you to set up to five different sounds on each program for multiple sound
generation. You can specify the number of voices, note range, transposition, MIDI channel and other parameters
for each individual sound so that for instance, a fat dirty bass sound can be played right alongside a warm string
sound simultaneously on the same keyboard. When connected to a MIDI sequencer you can really get the
maximum sound generating power out of DARKSTAR by setting each PARTtodifferent MIDI channels for complex
synthesizer layering.
The five [PARTS SELECT] buttons grouped beneath the joystick mixer are used to select the active PART for
editing. When a [PART] button indicator is on, any changes to the front panel controls and/or MENU functions will
be applied to that part only.
To select another PART, press the required [PART] button as shown in the following example:
You can copy all the parameter settings from one PART to another. This allows you to quickly build
up powerful unison sounds on a single MIDI channel - see page 26 for further details.
Before creating the sound for a PART you must first setup the basic ‘structure’ which defines how the PARTis
played and what limitations will apply in relation to the other PARTS. The following functions and associated
parameters can be set for each part, namely:
POLYPHONY, KEY TRANSPOSE, NOTE RANGE - LOW, NOTE RANGE - HIGH
MIDI CHANNEL, SUSTAIN, PITCH BEND RANGE,
OUTPUT LEVEL, PANNING LEVEL / SOURCE, TREMOLO LEVEL / SOURCE
PORTAMENTO LEVEL / TYPE, AUTO-GLIDE ON/OFF
This section contains the first four functions for PART editing. To access these settings, press the MENU button
labelled [PART], as shown in the following example:
The indicator in the [PART] button will light and the main display will show the first function which is:
This function allows you set the maximum note allocation for each PART. The DARKSTAR synthesizer has a total
number of 8 notes or ‘voices’ available and you must carefully allocate these between the different PARTS so as
not to leave unused voices on one PART whilst missing notes played (because of under-allocation) on another.As
an example, a bass sound will probably only require one or two notes to be played at any one time so it would be
extremely wasteful to allocate any higher number of voices to this type of sound. Also, this will leave a greater
number of spare voices for parts where you want to use chords.
PART COPY:
1. [MENU] PART button:
2. [MENU] MIDI button:
3. [PART OUTPUT] button:
1: POLYPHONY
MENU - PART button
2
2
1
1
PART SELECT
PART SELECT
3
3
5
5
4
4
Current PART=PART1
New PART=PART4
MENU
DOWN
MENU
VALUE
VALUE
MENU
UP
OSCILLATORSEDIT MODULATIONMIDILFOOUTPUTFILTER PORTA/TRIGGERPART

19
OWNERS MANUAL
OPERATIONOPERATION
With this first menu function selected the main display will alternate as follows:
RANGE=0to8notes/voices
Use the menu [EDIT - VALUE + and VALUE -] buttons to change the setting as follows:
With all 8 voices assigned there will be no further allocation allowed.
e.g. if PART1=3voices, PART2=1voice and PART3=4voices you will be unable to set any further voices for
PARTS 4 and 5. If you wish to create an additional PART, go back and lower the voice allocation for the existing
PARTS or setup another PROGRAM.
This function allows you to change the musical key of the selected PART by moving it up or down, in single
semitone steps to a maximum of +/- 24 notes (2 octaves). With the second menu function selected the main display
will alternate as follows:
RANGE=0to+24semitones, 0 to -24 semitones
Use the menu [EDIT - VALUE + and VALUE -] buttons to change the setting as follows:
This function allows you to set the LOW note range for the selected PART. By allocating groups of notes to each
PART you can play up to five different sounds simultaneously on a single keyboard using just one MIDI channel.
With the third menu function selected the main display will alternate as follows:
RANGE=0to100notes (limited by setting of NOTE RANGE - HIGH e.g. the highest LOW NOTE value will be
determined by the note value set in NOTE RANGE - HIGH) - see next section.
2: KEY TRANSPOSE
3: NOTE RANGE - LOW
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
Setting = 6 voices
Setting = 0 (no transposition)
Setting = MIDI note
value 60 (C3)
New setting = 2 voices
New setting=-12
(transposed down 1 octave)
Function =
Polyphony
Function =
Key Transpose
Function =
Note Range LOW
BANK
BANK
BANK
BANK
BANK
BANK
BANK
BANK
PROG
PROG
PROG
PROG
PROG
PROG
PROG
PROG
Display alternates
between
Display alternates
between
Display alternates
between
DOWN
DOWN
MENU
MENU
VALUE
VALUE
VALUE
VALUE
MENU
MENU
UP
UP
OSCILLATORS
OSCILLATORS
EDIT
EDIT
Press the [VALUE+]
and [VALUE -] buttons
to change the setting
Press the [VALUE+]
and [VALUE -] buttons
to change the setting

20
OPERATIONOPERATION
Use the menu [EDIT - VALUE + and VALUE -] buttons to change the setting as follows:
This function allows you to set the HIGH note range for the selected PART. The lowest HIGH NOTE value will be
determined by the note value set in NOTE RANGE - LOW. With the fourth menu function selected the main display
will alternate as follows:
RANGE=0to100notes (limited by setting of NOTE RANGE -LOW).
Use the menu [EDIT - VALUE + and VALUE -] buttons to change the setting as follows:
This section contains three PART functions related to MIDI. To access these settings, press the MENU button
labelled [MIDI], as shown in the following example:
The indicator in the [MIDI] button will light and the main display will show the first function which is:
This function allows you to set the MIDI transmit/receive channel for the selected PART. The front panel controls
will transmit MIDI controller data on the selected channel. With the first menu function selected the main display
will alternate as follows:
RANGE = MIDI channel 1 to 16
4: NOTE RANGE - HIGH
1: MIDI CHANNEL
MENU - MIDI button
DarkStar Synthesizer
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
New setting = MIDI note
value 36 (C1)
New setting = MIDI note
value 96 (C6)
BANK
BANK
PROG
PROG
DOWN
DOWN
MENU
MENU
VALUE
VALUE
VALUE
VALUE
MENU
MENU
UP
UP
OSCILLATORS
OSCILLATORS
EDIT
EDIT
Press the [VALUE+]
and [VALUE -] buttons
to change the setting
Press the [VALUE+]
and [VALUE -] buttons
to change the setting
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
Setting = MIDI note
value 72 (C4)
Function =
Note Range HIGH
BANK BANKPROG PROG
Display alternates
between
MENU
DOWN
MENU
VALUE
VALUE
MENU
UP
OSCILLATORSEDIT MODULATIONMIDILFOOUTPUTFILTER PORTA/TRIGGERPART
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
Setting = MIDI channel 1
Function =
MIDI Channel
BANK BANKPROG PROG
Display alternates
between