Korg Volca Drum Digital Percussion Synthesizer VOLCADRUM User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the Korg Volca Drum Digital Percussion Synthesizer (Model VOLCADRUM). The Volca Drum is a compact and portable digital percussion synthesizer featuring a 16-step sequencer and a six-part DSP synth engine, designed for creating a wide range of drum sounds and rhythmic patterns. Please read this manual thoroughly to understand the functions and ensure proper use of your device.

Figure 1: Top-down view of the Korg Volca Drum, showing all controls and the 16-step sequencer.

2. Setup

2.1 Powering the Unit

The Volca Drum can be powered using either AAA batteries or an optional AC adapter (DC 9V). Six AAA batteries are included with the unit.

• Battery Installation: Open the battery compartment on the bottom of the unit and insert six AAA batteries, ensuring correct polarity.
• AC Adapter: Connect a compatible DC 9V AC adapter to the DC 9V input jack on the rear panel. Using an AC adapter is recommended for extended use.

2.2 Connecting to Other Devices

The Volca Drum offers various connectivity options for integration into your setup.

• Audio Output: Connect headphones or an amplifier to the 3.5mm stereo mini-jack audio output.
• MIDI IN: Use the MIDI IN port to control the Volca Drum from an external MIDI device, such as a keyboard or DAW.
• Sync IN/OUT: Connect to other Volca series units or compatible devices using the Sync IN and Sync OUT jacks for synchronized playback.

Figure 2: Rear view of the Korg Volca Drum, showing power input, MIDI IN, Sync IN/OUT, and audio output jacks.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Overview of Controls

The Volca Drum features a clear layout of controls for sound design and sequencing. The left side focuses on the DSP synth engine parameters, while the right side includes global controls and sequencer functions.

Figure 3: Angled front view of the Korg Volca Drum, highlighting the control panel and sequencer buttons.

3.2 DSP Synth Engine

The Volca Drum utilizes a six-part DSP synth engine to generate a wide array of percussion sounds. Each part can be individually sculpted using the following parameters:

• Pitch: Adjusts the fundamental frequency of the sound.
• Decay: Controls the length of the sound's decay.
• Body: Shapes the resonant characteristics of the sound.
• Tune: Fine-tunes the pitch.
• Level Value: Sets the overall volume for the selected part.
• Amount/Mod/Rate/Attack/Release/EG/Send: These controls allow for detailed modulation, envelope shaping, and effects send for each part.
• Waveguide Resonator: Adds rich, natural-sounding resonances to your drum sounds.

Figure 4: Close-up view of the DSP synth engine controls, including Pitch, Decay, Body, Tune, and modulation parameters.

3.3 16-Step Sequencer

The integrated 16-step sequencer allows for intuitive and flexible programming of rhythmic patterns.

• Step Recording: Press the 'EDIT/STEP' button to enter step recording mode. Select a part and then press the step buttons (1-16) to add or remove notes.
• Real-time Recording: While playing, press the 'REC' button to record your performance in real-time.
• Tempo: Adjust the overall playback speed using the 'TEMPO' knob.

3.4 Active Step Function

The Active Step function allows you to dynamically change the length and feel of your patterns by enabling or disabling individual steps during playback. This adds variety and complexity to your sequences.

• Usage: Press the 'ACT. STEP' button and then press the step buttons (1-16) to toggle their active status.

3.5 Slice Function

The Slice function finely divides a single step into multiple smaller segments, enabling the creation of intricate drum rolls and rapid rhythmic patterns.

• Usage: Press the 'SLICE' button and then select a step to apply the slicing effect.

3.6 Randomize Functions

The Volca Drum includes two randomize functions to inspire new sound ideas and patterns by randomly changing parameters.

• Sound Randomize: Randomizes the sound parameters of a selected part.
• Step Randomize: Randomizes the step pattern of a selected part.

3.7 Accent Function

The Accent function allows you to specify 16 levels of accent for each step, adding dynamic emphasis to your performances.

• Usage: Press the 'ACCENT' button and then adjust the accent level for the desired step.

3.8 Choke Function

The Choke function enables you to group parts, so that when one part in the group plays, it silences any other currently playing part within the same group. This is useful for creating realistic hi-hat open/closed effects or other mutually exclusive sounds.

• Usage: Use the 'CHOKE' button in conjunction with part selection to define choke groups.

3.9 Saving and Loading

The Volca Drum allows you to save and load your custom kits and patterns.

• Save Kit: Press 'FUNC' + 'SAVE KIT' to store your current sound kit.
• Load Kit: Press 'FUNC' + 'LOAD KIT' to recall a saved sound kit.
• Save Program: Press 'FUNC' + 'SAVE PRG.' to store your current pattern program.
• Load Program: Press 'FUNC' + 'LOAD PRG.' to recall a saved pattern program.

Figure 5: Close-up view of the 16-step sequencer buttons and the save/load controls for kits and programs.

4. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Korg Volca Drum, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the surface of the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the unit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity.
• Battery Care: Remove batteries if the unit will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
• Handling: Avoid dropping the unit or subjecting it to strong impacts.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Volca Drum, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Power: Ensure batteries are correctly installed and charged, or that the AC adapter is properly connected and functioning.
• No Sound: Check the volume knob, ensure headphones or speakers are connected correctly, and verify that the individual part levels are not set to zero.
• Sequencer Not Playing: Ensure the sequencer is in play mode and that there are steps programmed for the active parts. Check the tempo setting.
• MIDI Issues: Verify MIDI cable connections and ensure the Volca Drum's MIDI channel matches that of your external controller.

For more complex issues, consult the official Korg support website or contact customer service.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For information regarding warranty coverage, product registration, and technical support, please refer to the official Korg website or contact your local Korg distributor. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Official Korg Website: www.korg.com