M-VAVE SMK-37 Elite Wireless MIDI Keyboard User Manual

1. Introduction

Welcome to the M-VAVE SMK-37 Elite Wireless MIDI Keyboard user manual. This document provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your new MIDI controller. The SMK-37 Elite is designed to offer a professional music production experience in a compact, portable form factor, suitable for musicians on the go.

Key features include 37 velocity-sensitive keys, 16 RGB backlit pads with velocity and aftertouch, 8 smart rotary encoders, 4 expandable faders, a built-in FM synthesizer, and wireless Bluetooth MIDI connectivity. It supports deep integration with various Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.

2. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the components of your SMK-37 Elite MIDI Keyboard.

Figure 2.1: SMK-37 Elite MIDI Keyboard with highlighted features.

2.1 Front Panel Controls

Figure 2.2: Detailed Product Panel Overview.

1. Back of Device:
   • Audio Output: 3.5mm audio output jack.
   • MIDI Output: 3.5mm MIDI adapter to connect to an external device that supports MIDI In.
   • Power: Switch to turn on/off the MIDI keyboard.
   • USB: USB-C Connection port.
   • Sustain: 1/4 inch sustain pedal connection port.
2. Pitch Wheel and Modulation Wheel:
   • Pitch Wheel: Scroll the pitch strip up and down to control the pitch bend. The center position is the original pitch of the sound. Lifting the finger up will release the sound to the original pitch.
   • Modulation Wheel: Scroll the modulation wheel to send continuous MIDI CC messages.
   • Note: You can assign the Modulation stripe use the MIDI Learn function of DAW.
3. Display Area: The display area provides visual feedback for various device settings and modes.
4. Button Area:
   • Knob Bank: Press this button to switch control to knobs 9-16.
   • Fader Bank: Press this button to switch control to faders 5-8.
   • Pad Bank: Press both Knob Bank and Fader Bank buttons simultaneously to switch control to pads 9-16.
   • Left Button: Sends custom MIDI messages or accesses specific functions described on the next page.
   • Right Button: Sends custom MIDI messages or accesses specific functions described on the last page.
5. Knobs: Eight assignable 360-degree rotary encoders. These knobs can send Aftertouch, MIDI CC, or pitch information, configurable through the MIDI SUITE software.
6. Pads: Sixteen RGB back-lit pads with velocity-sensitive & aftertouch.
7. Faders: Four assignable faders that can be used to control various parameters in your DAW or device software, such as volume, pan, or MIDI CC values.
8. Button Area 2:
   • ARP: Press the ARP button to enable the arpeggiator function. The Arpeggiator automatically plays a sequence of notes based on the chord you hold. To exit, press the ARP button again. You can press and hold the ARP button while rotating a knob to change arpeggiator settings.
   • Note Repeat: Press the Note Repeat button to enable the note repeat function.

2.2 Keys and Pads

Figure 2.3: 37 Velocity-Sensitive Keys with Spring-Loaded Mechanism.

The SMK-37 Elite features 37 velocity-sensitive keys with a three-octave range, designed with a patented spring-loaded key mechanism for exceptional comfort and responsiveness. The thoughtfully proportioned black and white keys ensure natural playability.

Figure 2.4: 16 RGB Backlit Pads for dynamic performance.

The 16 RGB backlit pads offer velocity and aftertouch support, allowing for dynamic and expressive performances with color-coded feedback.

3. Setup

3.1 Powering On Your Device

The SMK-37 Elite can be powered in two ways:

• Battery Power: The device has a built-in 2000mAh battery, providing up to 10 hours of endurance. Ensure the battery is charged before use.
• USB Bus Power: Connect the included USB-C cable to the USB-C port on the back of the device and to a powered USB port on your computer or a USB power adapter.

To turn on the device, use the power switch located on the back panel.

3.2 Connecting to a Computer or Mobile Device (Wireless MIDI)

Figure 3.1: Wireless MIDI connection to a laptop.

The SMK-37 Elite supports wireless MIDI connection via Bluetooth to Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.

1. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your computer or mobile device.
2. Activate the Bluetooth function on the SMK-37 Elite (refer to the display for Bluetooth status).
3. On your device, search for available Bluetooth MIDI devices and select "SMK-37 Elite" from the list.
4. For Windows users: You will need a device with Bluetooth 5.0 or higher and an extra BLE MIDI Driver for optimal performance.

3.3 Connecting via USB-C

For a wired connection, simply connect the SMK-37 Elite to your computer using the provided USB-C cable. The device will be recognized as a standard MIDI controller.

3.4 Connecting a Sustain Pedal

Connect a 1/4 inch sustain pedal to the dedicated sustain pedal input port on the back of the device.

3.5 Audio Output

Connect headphones or speakers to the 3.5mm audio output jack to monitor the built-in FM synthesizer or audio from your connected device.

3.6 MIDI Out

Use a 3.5mm MIDI adapter (not included) to connect the 3.5mm MIDI Out port to external MIDI hardware that supports MIDI In.

4. Operation

4.1 Playing Keys and Pads

• Keys: The 37 velocity-sensitive keys respond to how hard you press them, allowing for dynamic expression.
• Pads: The 16 RGB backlit pads are also velocity-sensitive and support aftertouch. Experiment with different pressure levels and sustained pressure for varied sounds.

4.2 Using Encoders and Faders

Figure 4.1: Rotary Encoders for precise control.

• Encoders: The 8 endless rotary encoders can be assigned to control various parameters in your DAW or the built-in synthesizer. Use the MIDI SUITE software to configure their functions (Aftertouch, MIDI CC, Pitch).
• Faders: The 4 assignable slide potentiometers control parameters like volume, pan, or MIDI CC values. Use the "Fader Bank" button to switch between two banks of faders, effectively expanding them to 8 controls.

4.3 Pitch and Modulation Control

Figure 4.2: Pitch and Modulation Touch Strips.

• Pitch Wheel: The physical touch strip allows you to bend the pitch of notes. Scroll up to raise the pitch, down to lower it. Releasing your finger returns the pitch to its original state.
• Modulation Wheel: This touch strip sends continuous MIDI CC messages, typically used for vibrato, filter sweeps, or other expressive controls.

4.4 Arpeggiator and Note Repeat

Figure 4.3: Arpeggiator and Note Repeat functions.

• Arpeggiator (ARP): Press the ARP button to activate. Hold down a chord, and the arpeggiator will automatically play the notes in a sequence. Press and hold ARP while rotating an encoder to adjust arpeggiator settings (e.g., mode, rate). Press ARP again to deactivate.
• Note Repeat: Press the Note Repeat button to activate. When active, holding down a pad or key will repeatedly trigger the note at a set rhythm.

Note: When Arpeggiator and Note Repeat are enabled, the sequencer cannot be activated simultaneously.

4.5 Built-in Sequencer

The SMK-37 Elite features a built-in sequencer that allows you to create and play back note patterns step-by-step or in real-time. You can save up to 8 patterns. Refer to the full user manual for detailed instructions on recording and editing sequences.

4.6 Built-in FM Synthesizer

Figure 4.4: Utilizing the internal FM synthesizer.

The device includes an internal FM synthesizer, allowing for standalone sound generation without needing an external DAW. Use the audio output jack to monitor the sound. Parameters of the FM synth can be controlled via the encoders and faders.

4.7 DAW Integration and Compatibility

The SMK-37 Elite is compatible with all major Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), including deep integration support for FL Studio. Ensure your DAW's MIDI settings are configured to recognize the SMK-37 Elite as an input device.

Features like Smart Chord Function and Octave Transform are also available to enhance your creative workflow.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the device. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Battery Care: For optimal battery life, avoid fully discharging the battery frequently. If storing for an extended period, charge the battery to about 50% and recharge every few months.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the M-VAVE official website for any available firmware updates to ensure your device has the latest features and bug fixes.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues with your SMK-37 Elite, please refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Device does not power on:
  • Ensure the battery is charged or the USB-C cable is securely connected to a powered USB port.
  • Check the power switch on the back of the device.
• No sound from the built-in synthesizer:
  • Verify that headphones or speakers are properly connected to the 3.5mm audio output jack.
  • Check the volume settings on the device and any connected audio equipment.
• No MIDI signal in DAW:
  • Wired Connection: Ensure the USB-C cable is connected and the device is recognized by your computer's operating system. Check your DAW's MIDI input settings to ensure the SMK-37 Elite is enabled.
  • Wireless Connection: Confirm Bluetooth is active on both the SMK-37 Elite and your computer/mobile device. Ensure the device is paired correctly. For Windows, confirm you have Bluetooth 5.0 and the necessary BLE MIDI driver installed.
  • Check that the correct MIDI channel is selected on both the keyboard and your DAW.
• Pads or keys are unresponsive:
  • Ensure the device is powered on and connected.
  • Check for any active modes (e.g., sequencer, arpeggiator) that might temporarily alter key/pad behavior.
• Encoders or Faders not controlling parameters:
  • Verify that the encoders/faders are assigned to the desired parameters in your DAW or MIDI SUITE software.
  • Ensure the correct Knob Bank or Fader Bank is active if you are trying to access expanded controls.

If the issue persists, please consult the M-VAVE official support resources or contact customer service.

7. Specifications

Figure 7.1: Product Dimensions.

8. User Tips

• Explore the Built-in Synth: Don't forget to experiment with the internal FM synthesizer for quick ideas or standalone jamming without a computer.
• Customize Controls: Use the M-VAVE MIDI SUITE software to customize the assignments of your encoders and faders to match your workflow in your preferred DAW.
• Stay Updated: Regularly check for firmware updates from M-VAVE to unlock new features and improve performance.
• Battery Management: To maximize battery life, turn off the device when not in use and avoid leaving it fully discharged for long periods.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official M-VAVE website or contact the retailer from whom you purchased the product. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Included accessories:

• 1 × SMK-37 Elite MIDI Keyboard
• 1 × USB-C Connection Cable
• 1 × User Manual (this document)