Introduction
The Korg D-1200 MK2 is a versatile digital audio multi-track recorder designed to facilitate the entire music production process, from initial idea to a polished final product. This unit integrates recording, editing, mixing, mastering, and CD burning capabilities into a single, intuitive device. It offers high-fidelity audio capture and extensive sound shaping tools, making it suitable for a wide range of audio recording applications.
Setup
1. Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the D-1200 MK2 from its packaging. Verify that all components are present and undamaged. Retain the packaging for future transport or storage.
2. Power Connection
Connect the supplied AC power adapter to the DC IN jack on the rear panel of the D-1200 MK2. Plug the adapter into a suitable power outlet. Ensure the unit is powered off before connecting or disconnecting the power supply.
Figure 1: Rear panel connections of the Korg D-1200 MK2. This image displays the DC IN port for power, S/PDIF digital input/output, USB port for computer connection, MIDI IN/OUT, Monitor Out (L/R), Master Out (L/R), and Input 1/2 with phantom power switches.
3. Audio Input Connections
- XLR Inputs: Connect microphones to the two XLR inputs. These inputs feature high-quality mic pre-amps and +48V phantom power, which can be activated via switches on the rear panel for condenser microphones.
- Dedicated Guitar Input: Use the dedicated guitar input jack for direct connection of a guitar or bass.
- Line Inputs: Connect other audio sources (e.g., keyboards, drum machines) to the available line inputs.
- S/PDIF Digital Input: For digital audio sources, connect to the S/PDIF digital input. The unit automatically converts incoming 48 kHz and 32 kHz data to 44.1 kHz for recording.
4. Audio Output Connections
- Monitor Out: Connect your studio monitors or headphones to the MONITOR OUT jacks for monitoring your recording and mix.
- Master Out: Connect the MASTER OUT jacks to your main mixing console, audio interface, or other playback system for final output.
5. USB Connection
Connect the D-1200 MK2 to a computer using a standard USB cable. This allows for simple computer connection and facilitates uploading and backing up recorded data.
Operating Instructions
1. Powering On/Off
Press the POWER button to turn the unit on. To power off, press and hold the POWER button until the unit shuts down completely.
2. Basic Recording
- Creating a New Song: Navigate through the menu using the adjustable backlit 240 x 64 pixel LCD display to create a new song project.
- Input Level Adjustment: Adjust the input gain for each connected microphone or instrument to achieve optimal recording levels without clipping.
- Arming Tracks: Select the desired tracks for recording and arm them. The D-1200 MK2 supports 4-track simultaneous recording.
- Recording Process: Press the RECORD button, then the PLAY button to begin recording. The unit records and plays back 16 or 24-bit, 44.1 kHz audio data with no data compression for maximum fidelity.
- Virtual Tracks: Each physical track has 8 virtual tracks, allowing for a total of 96 tracks per song for multiple takes and arrangements.
3. Mixing
The D-1200 MK2 features a 16-channel, 4-bus mixer. Each analog input and playback channel includes a 3-band EQ with high and low shelving EQ, and a mid-range peaking EQ with adjustable center frequency. Fader, EQ, pan, and effect settings can be stored in 100 scene memories for quick recall.
Figure 2: Detail of the mixing console section. This image highlights the faders and rotary knobs used for adjusting levels, pan, and EQ settings for individual channels during the mixing process.
4. Effects Processing
The unit includes REMS Modeling technology and three independent effect systems with 44-bit internal processing. Up to 8 insert effects can be assigned to individual channels, and 2 master effects provide polish to your overall mix. Combinations using up to 5 of the 98 available effect algorithms provide 128 insert, 32 master, and 32 final effects. There are 192 preset programs and 192 user programs available. Modeling provides automatic EQing based on instrument type.
5. Track Editing
The D-1200 MK2 offers sophisticated and flexible track editing with powerful, non-destructive editing tools. Commands include Copy, Insert, Swap, and Delete. Pro-level functions such as Normalize and Time Compression/Expansion are also available for refining your audio.
6. CD Burning
An internal 8X CD-R/W burner allows you to create audio CDs directly from your finished projects. Follow the on-screen prompts to finalize and burn your tracks to a CD.
Figure 3: Side view with integrated CD-R/W drive. This image shows the slot-loading CD-R/W drive located on the front edge of the unit, used for burning audio CDs.
Maintenance
1. Cleaning the Unit
Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the D-1200 MK2. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner can be used, ensuring no liquid enters the unit. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents.
2. Hard Drive Management
The unit contains a 40GB hard drive. Regularly back up your important project data to an external storage device or computer via the USB connection to prevent data loss. While the D-1200 MK2 manages its internal storage, periodic backups are crucial.
Troubleshooting
- No Power: Ensure the AC adapter is securely connected to both the unit and a working power outlet. Verify the power button is pressed correctly.
- No Sound Output: Check all audio cable connections (inputs, monitor out, master out). Verify input levels, fader positions, and master volume settings. Ensure no channels are muted or soloed incorrectly.
- Recording Issues: Confirm tracks are armed for recording. Check input source selection and input gain levels. Ensure sufficient hard drive space is available.
- Display Not Working: Check power connection. If the unit powers on but the display is blank, try adjusting the display contrast or brightness settings if available.
- CD Burning Errors: Ensure you are using compatible CD-R/W media. Check for sufficient free space on the hard drive for temporary files. Clean the CD drive lens if necessary (consult service manual or professional).
For persistent issues not covered here, please refer to the official Korg support resources.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | D-1200 MK2 |
| Recording/Playback Format | 16-bit or 24-bit, 44.1 kHz (no data compression) |
| Simultaneous Recording Tracks | 4 tracks |
| Playback Tracks | 12 tracks |
| Virtual Tracks | 8 per track (96 total per song) |
| Hard Drive Capacity | 40GB (approx. 122 hours at 16-bit, 1 track) |
| Mixer | 16-channel, 4-bus with 3-band EQ per channel |
| Effects | REMS Modeling, 3 independent systems, 98 algorithms, 192 preset/user programs |
| Display | Adjustable backlit 240 x 64 pixel LCD |
| Inputs | 2 XLR (with +48V phantom power), Dedicated Guitar Input, Line Inputs, S/PDIF Digital Input |
| Outputs | Monitor Out (L/R), Master Out (L/R) |
| Connectivity | USB |
| CD Burner | Internal 8X CD-R/W |
| Item Weight | 8.38 pounds (3.8 kg) |
| Package Dimensions | 17.75 x 12.75 x 6 inches (45.09 x 32.39 x 15.24 cm) |
Figure 4: Bottom panel with identification label. This image displays the underside of the unit, featuring a label with the model number (D1200mkII), serial number, and power supply specifications.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Korg website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims. Korg provides customer support for product inquiries, service, and parts.
