Midiplus Origin 62 61 Keys USB MIDI Keyboard Controller User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Midiplus Origin 62 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure proper operation and to maximize the performance of your Origin 62.

The Midiplus Origin 62 is a versatile 61-key velocity-sensitive MIDI keyboard controller designed for music production and performance.

2. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the various components and controls of your Midiplus Origin 62.

Figure 2.1: Front view of the Midiplus Origin 62 MIDI Keyboard Controller, showing the 61 keys, pitch bend and modulation wheels, eight sliders, eight rotary encoders, four trigger pads, and transport controls.

2.1 Front Panel Controls

• 61 Velocity-Sensitive Keys: Standard piano-style keys for musical input.
• Pitch Bend Wheel: For bending the pitch of notes.
• Modulation Wheel: For adding modulation effects.
• 8 Assignable Sliders (40mm): For controlling various parameters in your software.
• 8 Assignable Rotary Encoders: For continuous control of parameters.
• 4 Trigger Pads: For drumming, triggering samples, or other functions.
• 6 Transport Controls: Play, Stop, Record, Fast Forward, Rewind, Loop for DAW control.
• Data Entry Display: Digital display for parameter values and settings.

Figure 2.2: Close-up view of the data entry display, trigger pads (P1-P4), and transport controls on the Midiplus Origin 62.

2.2 Rear Panel Connections

• USB Port: For connecting to a computer (USB bus powered) and MIDI data transfer.
• MIDI Out Port: Standard 5-pin DIN MIDI output for connecting to external MIDI hardware.
• Sustain Pedal Input: 1/4-inch jack for connecting an optional sustain pedal.
• Power Switch: On/Off switch for the unit.

Figure 2.3: Rear view of the Midiplus Origin 62, showing the Sustain Switch input, MIDI Out port, USB port, and power switch.

3. Key Features

• 61 full-size velocity-sensitive keys for expressive playability.
• Eight fully assignable 40mm sliders for precise control.
• Eight fully programmable rotary knobs for continuous parameter adjustment.
• Four trigger pads for dynamic beat making and sample triggering.
• Six dedicated transport controls for seamless DAW integration (Play, Stop, Record, etc.).
• Dedicated Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels.
• Multiple velocity curves selectable to match your playing style.
• USB bus powered, eliminating the need for an external power adapter.
• MIDI Out port for connecting to external MIDI devices.
• Compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10 and Mac OSX operating systems.
• Sustain pedal interface (sustain pedal not included).

4. Setup Guide

4.1 System Requirements

• Operating System: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10 or Mac OSX.
• USB Port: Available USB 2.0 or 3.0 port.
• Software: A Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) or MIDI-compatible software (e.g., Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio).

4.2 Connecting Your Origin 62

1. Connect USB Cable: Connect one end of the supplied USB cable to the USB port on the rear panel of the Origin 62 and the other end to an available USB port on your computer. The Origin 62 is USB bus powered and does not require an external power supply.
2. Power On: Flip the power switch on the rear panel to the "ON" position.
3. Driver Installation (Plug & Play): The Midiplus Origin 62 is a class-compliant MIDI device. This means that for most modern operating systems (Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10 and Mac OSX), no special drivers are required. Your computer should automatically detect and install the necessary drivers upon connection.
4. Software Setup:
   • Open your preferred DAW or MIDI software.
   • Navigate to the software's preferences or settings menu (often labeled "MIDI," "Devices," or "External Devices").
   • Locate the Midiplus Origin 62 in the list of available MIDI input devices.
   • Enable the Origin 62 as a MIDI input device. You may also need to enable it as a control surface if you wish to use the sliders, knobs, and transport controls for DAW functions. Refer to your software's manual for specific instructions on setting up MIDI controllers.
5. Optional: Sustain Pedal: If you have a sustain pedal, connect it to the "Sustain Switch" input on the rear panel.
6. Optional: External MIDI Devices: If you wish to control external MIDI hardware, connect a standard 5-pin DIN MIDI cable from the "MIDI Out" port on the Origin 62 to the MIDI In port of your external device.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Basic Operation

• Playing Keys: Simply play the 61 velocity-sensitive keys to send MIDI note data to your connected software or hardware. The velocity sensitivity means the volume or intensity of the note will vary based on how hard you strike the key.
• Pitch Bend Wheel: Move the pitch bend wheel up or down to momentarily raise or lower the pitch of played notes. It typically springs back to the center.
• Modulation Wheel: Move the modulation wheel to apply modulation effects, such as vibrato or tremolo, to your sounds. This wheel usually stays in the position you leave it.

5.2 Assignable Controls (Sliders, Knobs, Pads)

The 8 sliders, 8 rotary encoders, and 4 trigger pads are fully assignable. This means you can map them to control various parameters within your DAW or virtual instruments, such as volume, pan, filter cutoff, effects send, etc.

Generally, you will use your software's MIDI Learn function or manual MIDI mapping settings to assign these controls.

Figure 5.1: Close-up view of the eight assignable sliders and eight rotary encoders on the Midiplus Origin 62.

5.3 Transport Controls

The six transport control buttons (Play, Stop, Record, Fast Forward, Rewind, Loop) are designed to control the corresponding functions in your DAW. Ensure your DAW is configured to recognize these MIDI Machine Control (MMC) messages from the Origin 62.

5.4 Adjusting Velocity Curves

The Origin 62 offers several velocity curves to customize the keyboard's response to your playing dynamics. This allows you to fine-tune how the volume or intensity of a note changes based on how hard you press the keys. Refer to the included owner's manual for specific instructions on how to select and apply different velocity curves using the data entry display and control buttons. Experiment with different curves to find the one that best suits your playing style and the sounds you are using.

6. Maintenance and Care

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the Origin 62. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, but ensure no liquid enters the device. Avoid abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
• Storage: When not in use, store the keyboard in a clean, dry environment away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity.
• Handling: Avoid dropping the unit or subjecting it to strong impacts. Do not place heavy objects on top of the keyboard.
• Power: Always disconnect the USB cable when the device is not in use for extended periods.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Midiplus Origin 62, please refer to the following common problems and solutions:

Problem: The keyboard is not recognized by my computer/DAW.

• Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the Origin 62 and your computer.
• Verify the power switch on the rear panel of the Origin 62 is in the "ON" position.
• Try connecting to a different USB port on your computer.
• Restart your computer and/or DAW software.
• Check your DAW's MIDI settings to ensure the Origin 62 is enabled as an input device.
• For Windows users, check Device Manager to see if the device is listed correctly without any error symbols.

Problem: Keys are not responding or velocity is inconsistent.

• Ensure the Origin 62 is properly connected and recognized by your software.
• Check the velocity curve settings on the Origin 62. Experiment with different curves as some may be more suitable for your playing style. Refer to the owner's manual for instructions on adjusting velocity curves.
• Ensure the instrument or track in your DAW is armed for recording and receiving MIDI input from the Origin 62.
• If specific keys are not responding, gently clean around the key with a soft, dry cloth.

Problem: Sliders, knobs, or pads are not controlling parameters in my DAW.

• Ensure the Origin 62 is enabled as a control surface or MIDI input for control messages in your DAW's settings.
• Use your DAW's MIDI Learn function to assign the physical controls on the Origin 62 to the desired parameters in your software.
• Verify that the MIDI channel settings on the Origin 62 match the receiving channel in your software, if applicable.

8. Technical Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or service, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Midiplus website.

You can also visit the Midiplus Store on Amazon for additional product information and support resources.