Korg MICROKEY261 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller User Manual

1. Introduction

The Korg MICROKEY261 is a compact, bus-powered 61-key USB MIDI keyboard controller designed for music production and performance. It features a velocity-sensitive keyboard, pitch bend and modulation wheels, octave shift buttons, and an assignable switch input for a damper pedal. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your MICROKEY261.

Image 1.1: Korg MICROKEY261 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller.

2. Safety Information

Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, or extreme temperatures.
Avoid placing the unit near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
Do not open the casing or attempt to modify the unit. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
Use only the specified USB cable for connection.
Keep out of reach of children.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

Korg MICROKEY261 61-Key USB Keyboard Controller
USB Cable
Software Bundle Code (if applicable, check packaging for details)

4. Product Overview

The MICROKEY261 features a streamlined design with essential controls for intuitive music creation.

4.1. Key Components

61 Velocity-Sensitive Keys: Standard piano-style keys, responsive to playing dynamics.
Pitch Bend Wheel: Used to smoothly vary the pitch of notes.
Modulation Wheel: Used to apply various effects or parameters, such as vibrato.
Octave Shift Buttons (UP/DOWN): Adjust the keyboard's octave range.
Assignable Switch Input: A 1/4-inch jack for connecting a damper pedal or other assignable switch.
USB Port: For connecting to a computer or iOS device and for power.

Close-up of Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels, and Octave buttons on Korg MICROKEY261

Image 4.1: Pitch Bend, Modulation wheels, and Octave buttons.

Side view of Korg MICROKEY261 showing USB port and assignable switch input

Image 4.2: USB port and Assignable Switch input.

5. Setup

5.1. Connecting to a Computer (PC/Mac)

Connect one end of the supplied USB cable to the USB port on the MICROKEY261.
Connect the other end of the USB cable to an available USB port on your computer.
The MICROKEY261 is class-compliant, meaning it typically does not require special drivers for basic functionality on most modern operating systems (Windows, macOS). However, for advanced features and optimal performance, Korg recommends installing the latest Korg MIDI driver from the official Korg website.
Once connected, your computer should recognize the device. Open your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) or music software and select the MICROKEY261 as your MIDI input device.

5.2. Connecting to an iOS Device (iPad/iPhone)

You will need an Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter (or equivalent) to connect the MICROKEY261 to your iOS device.
Connect the USB cable from the MICROKEY261 to the USB port on the Camera Adapter.
Connect the Lightning connector of the adapter to your iOS device.
The MICROKEY261 will be powered by your iOS device. Ensure your iOS device has sufficient battery charge.
Open your music application on the iOS device. The MICROKEY261 should be automatically recognized as a MIDI input.

Korg MICROKEY261 connected to an iPad via USB adapter

Image 5.1: Connecting the MICROKEY261 to an iPad.

5.3. Korg Kontrol Editor Software

The Korg Kontrol Editor software (available for free download from the Korg website) allows you to customize various settings of your MICROKEY261, including:

Velocity curve adjustment (how the keyboard responds to your playing dynamics).
MIDI channel assignment.
Customizing the function of the assignable switch input.
Transposition settings.

It is recommended to install and use this software to tailor the controller to your specific needs.

Screenshot of Korg Kontrol Editor software interface

Image 5.2: Korg Kontrol Editor software interface.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1. Basic Playback

Once connected to your computer or iOS device and configured in your music software, simply play the keys to generate MIDI notes. The velocity-sensitive keys will transmit different MIDI velocity values based on how hard you strike them, allowing for expressive performances.

6.2. Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheels

Pitch Bend Wheel: Move this wheel up or down to smoothly change the pitch of the notes you are playing. It typically returns to the center position when released.
Modulation Wheel: Move this wheel to apply modulation effects, such as vibrato, to your sound. The specific effect depends on the instrument or synthesizer sound selected in your software.

6.3. Octave Shift Buttons

Use the OCTAVE DOWN and OCTAVE UP buttons to shift the entire keyboard's range up or down in octaves. This allows you to access a wider range of notes than the physical 61 keys provide. LEDs next to the buttons indicate the current octave shift.

6.4. Assignable Switch Input

Connect a standard sustain/damper pedal (sold separately) to the assignable switch input. By default, this input functions as a sustain pedal, holding notes even after you release the keys. The function of this input can be customized using the Korg Kontrol Editor software.

7. Maintenance

7.1. Cleaning

Wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth.
Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.

7.2. Storage

Store the unit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Avoid placing heavy objects on the unit.

8. Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No power/Unit not recognized	USB cable not connected properly or faulty. Computer USB port issue.	Ensure USB cable is securely connected. Try a different USB port or cable. Restart your computer.
No sound from software	MIDI input not selected in software. Software instrument not loaded or armed. Volume too low.	Check your DAW/software settings to ensure MICROKEY261 is selected as MIDI input. Load an instrument and ensure its track is armed for recording/playback. Increase volume.
Keys not responding consistently	Velocity curve settings. Dust/debris under keys.	Adjust velocity curve in Korg Kontrol Editor. Gently clean around keys. If problem persists, contact support.
Pitch/Mod wheels not working	Software instrument does not respond to pitch bend/modulation.	Verify that the software instrument or effect you are using is configured to respond to pitch bend and modulation messages.

9. Specifications

Number of Keys: 61
Key Type: Natural Touch Mini Keyboard (velocity-sensitive)
Controllers: Pitch Bend Wheel, Modulation Wheel, Octave Shift Buttons
Assignable Switch Input: 1/4" jack (for sustain pedal, etc.)
Connectivity: USB Type B
Power: USB Bus Powered
Compatible Devices: PC, Mac, iOS (via Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter)
Dimensions (W x D x H): 37.2 x 7.28 x 3.22 inches (94.5 x 18.5 x 8.2 cm)
Weight: 3.76 pounds (1.71 kg)
Color: Black
Material: Plastic

10. Warranty Information

Korg products are covered by a limited manufacturer's warranty. The specific terms and duration of the warranty may vary by region and product. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Korg website for detailed warranty information and registration procedures.

11. Support

For further assistance, technical support, driver downloads, or software updates, please visit the official Korg website:

www.korg.com

You may also consult the online FAQs or contact Korg customer service directly through their website.

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