M-VAVE SMK-25 Mini MIDI Keyboard User Manual

1. Introduction

The M-VAVE SMK-25 Mini MIDI Keyboard is a portable and versatile 25-key MIDI controller designed for musicians, producers, and enthusiasts. It features velocity-sensitive keys, an assignable rotary knob, and various functional buttons to enhance your musical creativity. With multiple connection options including wired USB-C and wireless capabilities, it offers seamless integration with various operating systems and digital audio workstations.

Key Features:

• Battery-supplied portable MIDI controller with wireless function.
• Multiple device connections: wired USB-C, wireless, wireless direct, wireless adapter connection, MIDI OUT.
• USB-C port for connection and charging.
• Two power supply methods: USB power supply, built-in 780mAh battery.
• 25 velocity-sensitive piano keys.
• 1 assignable 360-degree rotary knob.
• Powerful functions including arpeggios, intelligent scales, and chords.
• 3.5mm continuous tone/expression pedal interface.
• Sustain pedal port and MIDI out port combined.
• Dedicated buttons for Sustain, Modulation, and Pitch up/down.
• Smart Chord and Scale features for easy inspiration.
• Compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android systems.
• Compatible with all major Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs).

2. Safety Information

Please read and understand the following safety precautions before using your M-VAVE SMK-25 Mini MIDI Keyboard to ensure safe and optimal performance.

• Power Source: Use only the specified USB-C cable for charging and power. Do not use damaged cables or power adapters.
• Water and Moisture: Keep the device away from water, moisture, and high humidity. Do not operate with wet hands.
• Heat Sources: Avoid placing the device near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing apparatus.
• Cleaning: Clean only with a dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol sprays.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation. Do not block any ventilation openings.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
• Children: Keep out of reach of small children. This device is not a toy.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place when not in use.

3. Package Contents

Carefully unpack your M-VAVE SMK-25 Mini MIDI Keyboard and ensure all items are present and in good condition. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your retailer.

• 1 x M-VAVE SMK-25 Mini MIDI Keyboard
• 1 x USB Type-C Cable
• 1 x User Manual (English)

4. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the various components and controls of your SMK-25 Mini MIDI Keyboard.

Control Descriptions:

• ON/OFF Toggle: Power switch for the device.
• Knob: Assignable 360-degree rotary encoder for various parameters.
• LED Display: Shows current settings and values.
• PITCH Buttons: Adjust pitch bend up/down.
• MOD Button: Activates modulation function.
• SUS Button: Activates sustain function.
• ARP Button: Toggles arpeggiator on/off.
• SC/CH Button: Toggles Smart Chord/Scale feature.
• OC- / OC+ Buttons: Adjust octave down/up.
• BT Button: Bluetooth pairing button for wireless connection.
• 25 Velocity-sensitive Keys: Standard piano-style keys that respond to playing dynamics.
• Type-C Interface: USB-C port for data connection and charging.
• Sustain/MIDI Out: 3.5mm jack for sustain pedal input or MIDI output.

5. Setup

5.1 Powering the Device

The SMK-25 can be powered in two ways:

1. USB Power Supply: Connect the provided USB Type-C cable to the Type-C interface on the keyboard and the other end to a USB power adapter (not included) or a computer's USB port.
2. Battery Power Supply: The keyboard has a built-in 780mAh rechargeable battery. Ensure it is charged before wireless use. The battery charges automatically when connected via USB.

5.2 Connecting to a Computer/Mobile Device

The SMK-25 offers both wired and wireless connection options.

Wired Connection (USB-C):

1. Ensure the keyboard is powered on.
2. Connect the USB Type-C cable from the keyboard's Type-C interface to a USB port on your computer or compatible mobile device.
3. The device should be recognized automatically as a MIDI input device. No special drivers are usually required for most operating systems (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android).
4. Open your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) or music application and select the SMK-25 as your MIDI input device.

Wireless Connection (Bluetooth):

The SMK-25 supports wireless connection to Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices.

1. Ensure the keyboard is powered on and sufficiently charged.
2. Press and hold the BT button on the keyboard to enter pairing mode. The LED display or an indicator light will show it's ready to pair.
3. On your computer or mobile device, go to Bluetooth settings and search for available devices.
4. Select "M-VAVE SMK-25" (or similar) from the list to pair.
5. Once paired, open your DAW or music application and select the SMK-25 as your MIDI input device.

5.3 Connecting a Sustain Pedal or MIDI Out Device

The 3.5mm jack on the keyboard serves a dual purpose:

• Sustain Pedal: Connect a standard 3.5mm sustain pedal (not included) to this port for sustain functionality.
• MIDI Out: Use a 3.5mm TRS to MIDI 5-pin DIN adapter (not included) to connect the keyboard's MIDI output to other MIDI hardware devices.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Basic Playback

The 25 velocity-sensitive keys respond to how hard you press them, allowing for expressive playing. Simply connect the keyboard to your DAW or music software and start playing.

6.2 Using the Assignable Encoder Knob

The 360-degree rotary knob can be assigned to control various parameters within your DAW or software instruments. Refer to your software's MIDI mapping instructions to assign this knob to functions like volume, pan, filter cutoff, or effect send.

6.3 Functional Buttons

• PITCH (Up/Down): Use these buttons to momentarily bend the pitch of the notes up or down.
• MOD (Modulation): Press this button to apply modulation effects to your sound. The specific effect depends on your software instrument's settings.
• SUS (Sustain): This button acts as a digital sustain pedal, holding notes after you release the keys.
• ARP (Arpeggiator): Activate the arpeggiator to automatically play arpeggiated patterns based on the notes you hold down. Further settings for arpeggio mode, tempo, and gate may be available via combinations with the knob or other buttons (refer to the full manual for advanced settings).
• SC/CH (Smart Chord/Scale): This feature helps you play chords and scales easily. When activated, playing single notes can trigger full chords or stay within a selected scale, simplifying composition and performance.
• OC- / OC+ (Octave Down/Up): Shift the keyboard's octave range down or up to access a wider range of notes.
• BT (Bluetooth): Used for initiating wireless pairing (see Section 5.2).

7. Maintenance

7.1 Cleaning

To clean your SMK-25 Mini MIDI Keyboard, use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents as they may damage the finish. Avoid spraying liquids directly onto the device.

7.2 Storage

When not in use for extended periods, store the keyboard in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. It is recommended to store it in its original packaging or a protective case to prevent dust accumulation and physical damage.

8. Troubleshooting

• No Power:
  • Ensure the ON/OFF toggle is in the 'ON' position.
  • If using USB power, check the USB-C cable connection and try a different USB port or power adapter.
  • If using battery power, ensure the battery is charged. Connect via USB-C to charge.
• No Sound/MIDI Output:
  • Verify the keyboard is properly connected (wired or wireless) to your computer/device.
  • In your DAW or music software, ensure the SMK-25 is selected as the MIDI input device.
  • Check that the track in your DAW is armed for recording or monitoring MIDI input.
  • Ensure the software instrument you are using is loaded and active.
• Keys Not Responding / Incorrect Notes:
  • Check the octave (OC-/OC+) settings. You might be playing in an extreme octave range.
  • If using Smart Chord/Scale (SC/CH) feature, ensure it's configured as desired or temporarily disable it to check basic key functionality.
  • Restart the keyboard and your computer/software.
• Wireless Connection Issues:
  • Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your receiving device.
  • Re-enter pairing mode on the keyboard by pressing the BT button.
  • Try removing the SMK-25 from your device's Bluetooth list and re-pairing.
  • Ensure there are no strong interferences (e.g., Wi-Fi routers, other Bluetooth devices) nearby.
• Assignable Knob Not Working:
  • Ensure the knob is properly MIDI-mapped within your DAW or software instrument.
  • Try re-assigning the knob to a different parameter to confirm functionality.

9. Specifications

10. User Tips

• Portability: The compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for on-the-go music creation. Consider a small padded case for protection when traveling.
• Battery Life: To maximize battery life, turn off the keyboard when not in use. For long sessions, consider keeping it connected via USB-C.
• DAW Integration: Experiment with MIDI mapping in your preferred DAW to customize the assignable knob and buttons for quick access to frequently used parameters.
• Smart Chord/Scale: Utilize the Smart Chord and Scale features to quickly generate musical ideas, especially if you're new to music theory or want to explore new harmonies.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the M-VAVE official website for any firmware updates that might improve performance or add new features.

11. Warranty and Support

M-VAVE products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official M-VAVE website. Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.