midiplus Origin 37 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller User Manual

1. Introduction

The midiplus Origin 37 is a versatile USB MIDI Keyboard Controller designed for musicians and producers. It features 37 full-size sensitive keys, 8 real-time controller knobs, 9 real-time controller sliders, and essential performance controls like pitch bend and modulation wheels. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Origin 37 controller to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

2. Safety Information

• Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, or extreme temperatures.
• Avoid placing the unit near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Use only attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

3. Package Contents

Please check that all items listed below are included in your package:

• midiplus Origin 37 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
• USB Cable
• Owner's Manual (this document)

4. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the various components and controls of your Origin 37 controller.

Figure 4.1: Top-down view of the midiplus Origin 37, showing the 37 keys, pitch and modulation wheels, control knobs, sliders, and display.

4.1 Front Panel Controls

• 37 Full-Size Sensitive Keys: Standard piano-style keys for playing notes.
• Pitch Bend Wheel: Allows for real-time pitch modulation of notes.
• Modulation Wheel: Provides real-time control over various assignable parameters, typically vibrato or other effects.
• Power Button: Turns the unit on or off.
• Sustain Button: Toggles sustain on/off, mimicking a sustain pedal.
• Octave Up/Down Buttons: Shifts the keyboard's octave range up or down.
• Data Entry Slider: Used for adjusting parameter values shown on the display.
• MIDI/Select Button: Used to enter MIDI configuration mode or select options.
• Program Up/Down Buttons: Navigates through different program or preset numbers.
• 8 Real-Time Controller Knobs (1-8): Assignable rotary encoders for controlling various MIDI parameters.
• 9 Real-Time Controller Sliders (9-17): Assignable faders for controlling various MIDI parameters.
• LED Display: Shows current parameter values, program numbers, and other status information.

Figure 4.2: Detail of the left-side controls, including Pitch Bend, Modulation, Power, Sustain, Octave Up/Down, Data Entry slider, and LED display.

Figure 4.3: Detail of the right-side controls, showing the 8 rotary knobs and 9 faders, along with key labels for MIDI configuration.

4.2 Rear Panel Connections

• Sustain Switch Input: 1/4-inch jack for connecting an external sustain pedal (not included).
• KEYBOARD MIDI OUT (5-pin DIN): Standard MIDI output for connecting to other MIDI devices.
• USB Port: For connecting to a computer (PC/Mac) for MIDI communication and power.
• Power Switch: Main power switch for the unit.

Figure 4.4: Rear panel showing the Sustain Switch input, KEYBOARD MIDI OUT, USB port, and Power switch.

5. Setup

5.1 Connecting to a Computer (USB)

1. Ensure your computer is powered on.
2. Connect one end of the supplied USB cable to the USB port on the rear panel of the Origin 37.
3. Connect the other end of the USB cable to an available USB port on your computer.
4. The Origin 37 is USB class-compliant and does not require special drivers for most operating systems (PC/Mac). It will be powered via the USB connection.
5. Turn on the Origin 37 using the Power button on the front panel.
6. Your computer should automatically recognize the device. You can then select it as a MIDI input device in your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) or music software (e.g., Ableton Live).

5.2 Connecting to External MIDI Devices (MIDI OUT)

1. Ensure both the Origin 37 and the external MIDI device are powered off.
2. Connect a standard 5-pin MIDI cable from the "KEYBOARD MIDI OUT" port on the Origin 37 to the MIDI IN port of your external MIDI device (e.g., synthesizer, sound module).
3. Power on the Origin 37, then power on your external MIDI device.
4. Configure your external MIDI device to receive MIDI data on the appropriate MIDI channel.

5.3 Connecting a Sustain Pedal

1. Connect a standard 1/4-inch TS (mono) sustain pedal (not included) to the "Sustain Switch" input on the rear panel.
2. The pedal will function as a sustain control for your MIDI notes.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Basic Operation

• Playing Keys: Simply press the keys to send MIDI note-on/note-off messages to your connected software or hardware. The keys are velocity-sensitive, meaning the harder you press, the higher the velocity value sent.
• Pitch Bend Wheel: Move the wheel up or down to bend the pitch of currently held notes. It automatically returns to the center position.
• Modulation Wheel: Move the wheel to apply modulation effects. This wheel typically stays in the position you leave it. The specific effect controlled depends on your software or hardware instrument's settings.
• Sustain Button: Press to toggle sustain on or off. When active, notes will continue to sound after the key is released, similar to a piano's sustain pedal.
• Octave Up/Down: Use these buttons to transpose the entire keyboard up or down in octave increments. The LED display will indicate the current octave shift.
• Program Up/Down: These buttons are used to send MIDI Program Change messages, allowing you to switch between different sounds or presets on your connected MIDI device or software.

6.2 Assigning Knobs and Sliders

The 8 knobs and 9 sliders are assignable MIDI controllers. They send MIDI Control Change (CC) messages. The specific CC number each knob/slider sends can be configured. Refer to your software's or hardware's manual for how to map these CC messages to parameters.

To assign a knob or slider:

1. Press the MIDI/Select button to enter configuration mode.
2. Use the Data Entry slider or Octave Up/Down buttons to navigate through parameters on the LED display.
3. Select the desired knob or slider to assign.
4. Adjust the value (e.g., MIDI CC number) using the Data Entry slider.
5. Press MIDI/Select again to exit configuration mode and save changes.

Note: Specific assignment procedures may vary. Consult the detailed MIDI implementation chart (if available) or your DAW's manual for advanced mapping.

6.3 Data Entry and Display

The LED display provides visual feedback for various settings and parameters. The Data Entry slider is primarily used to adjust numerical values shown on this display, such as MIDI channel, CC numbers, or program numbers during configuration.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the unit. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the controller in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Handling: Avoid dropping the unit or subjecting it to strong impacts.
• Power: Always disconnect the USB cable when the unit is not in use or during electrical storms.

8. Troubleshooting

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

10.1 Warranty Information

Midiplus products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Midiplus website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

10.2 Customer Support

If you encounter any issues or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact Midiplus customer support. You can typically find contact information on the official Midiplus website or through your retailer.

For further assistance, you may visit the Midiplus Store on Amazon.