MIDIPLUS EasyPiano E2 MIDI Keyboard Controller

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the MIDIPLUS EasyPiano E2 MIDI Keyboard Controller. This 49-key semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keyboard is designed for musicians and producers seeking a portable yet powerful MIDI solution. It features built-in speakers, 128 General MIDI compatible instruments, and essential controls for expressive performance and production. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your EasyPiano E2.

2. What's in the Box

• MIDIPLUS EasyPiano E2 MIDI Keyboard Controller
• USB Cable
• User Manual (this document)

3. Product Overview

3.1. Front Panel Description

Image: Front panel of the EasyPiano E2, highlighting the Pitch and Modulation wheels, Select/Enter button, Demo Play/Stop, Built-in Speaker, Octave & Program buttons, Demo & Volume controls, and Quick Function buttons.

• Pitch Wheel: Used to bend the pitch of notes up or down.
• Modulation Wheel: Used to add vibrato or other modulation effects to the sound.
• Select/Enter Button: Used to confirm selections or enter modes.
• Demo Play/Stop Button: Initiates or stops the built-in demo songs.
• Octave Up/Down Buttons: Shifts the keyboard's octave range.
• Program Change Buttons: Navigates through instrument programs.
• Volume +/- Buttons: Adjusts the master output volume.
• Quick Function Buttons: Dedicated buttons for Bright Grand Piano, Piano, Electric Piano, Harpsichord, Church Organ, and String Music.

3.2. Rear Panel (Port Description)

Image: Rear panel of the EasyPiano E2, showing the AUX OUT, PHONE OUT, SUSTAIN SWITCH input, MIDI IN/OUT ports, USB 2.0 Port, and DC 9V Port.

• AUX OUT: Audio output for connecting to external amplifiers or mixers.
• PHONE OUT: Stereo headphone jack for private practice.
• SUSTAIN SWITCH: Input for an optional sustain pedal.
• MIDI IN/OUT: Standard MIDI ports for connecting to other MIDI devices.
• USB 2.0 Port: For connecting to a computer for MIDI data transfer and power.
• DC 9V Port: Optional power input (adapter not included).
• Power Switch: Turns the unit on or off.

4. Setup

1. Powering On:
   • USB Power: Connect the supplied USB cable from the EasyPiano E2's USB port to a computer's USB port or a USB power adapter (5V, 1A minimum).
   • Battery Power: Insert 6 x AA batteries (not included) into the battery compartment on the underside of the unit.
   • DC 9V Power (Optional): Connect an optional DC 9V / 2A power adapter (not included) to the DC 9V port.
   Once powered, flip the Power Switch to the ON position.
2. Connecting to a Computer: Use the provided USB cable to connect the EasyPiano E2 to your computer. The keyboard is class-compliant and does not require special drivers for Windows XP/7/8/10 or Mac OS X. It will be recognized as a MIDI device.
3. Connecting Peripherals:
   • Sustain Pedal: Connect a standard sustain pedal (not included) to the SUSTAIN SWITCH input.
   • Headphones: Plug stereo headphones into the PHONE OUT jack for monitoring.
   • External Audio System: Connect the AUX OUT to an amplifier, mixer, or powered speakers.
   • MIDI Devices: Use MIDI cables to connect the MIDI IN/OUT ports to other MIDI hardware.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Basic Operation

• Playing: The 49 semi-weighted keys are velocity-sensitive, meaning the volume and timbre of the sound will change based on how hard you press the keys.
• Volume Control: Use the Volume +/- buttons to adjust the overall output level.

5.2. Sound Selection

• Built-in Instruments: The EasyPiano E2 features 128 General MIDI compatible instruments. Use the Program Change buttons to cycle through the available sounds.
• Quick Sound Presets: Utilize the dedicated quick function buttons for instant access to Bright Grand Piano, Piano, Electric Piano, Harpsichord, Church Organ, and String Music.

5.3. Sound Effects and Controls

• Velocity Curves: The keyboard supports 3 speed curves (Light, Normal, Heavy) to adjust velocity response. Refer to the full manual for specific button combinations to change this setting.
• Echo Effect: An echo (reverb) effect can be toggled ON/OFF. Consult the full manual for the specific control.
• Octave Shift: Use the Octave Up/Down buttons to shift the keyboard's pitch range up or down by octaves.
• Transpose: The transpose function allows you to shift the pitch of the entire keyboard in semitone steps. Refer to the full manual for instructions on how to use this feature.
• Pitch Bend Wheel: Use the Pitch wheel to smoothly bend the pitch of notes up or down.
• Modulation Wheel: Use the Modulation wheel to add expressive effects like vibrato to your sound.

5.4. MIDI Functionality

• The EasyPiano E2 supports 16 multi-timbre received channels and is GM Level 1 standard compliant, allowing it to be used with a wide range of MIDI software and hardware.
• When connected via USB, the keyboard acts as a MIDI controller for your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) or other music software.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the keyboard. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, but ensure no liquid enters the unit. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the keyboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity.
• Battery Care: If using batteries, remove them 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.

7. Troubleshooting

• No Sound from Speakers:
  • Ensure the volume is turned up.
  • Check if headphones are plugged in (this will mute the speakers).
  • Verify the unit is powered on correctly.
• No MIDI Signal to Computer:
  • Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and the computer.
  • Check your computer's device manager (Windows) or Audio MIDI Setup (Mac) to confirm the EasyPiano E2 is recognized.
  • Verify that your DAW or music software is configured to receive MIDI input from the EasyPiano E2.
  • Try a different USB port or cable.
• Keys Not Responding:
  • Ensure the unit is powered on.
  • If connected to software, check if the correct MIDI channel is selected.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information for the MIDIPLUS EasyPiano E2 is not provided in this document. For detailed warranty terms, technical support, and service inquiries, please refer to the official Midiplus website or contact your local distributor. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.