Donner DMK 25 Pro USB-C MIDI Keyboard Controller User Manual

1. Introduction

The Donner DMK 25 Pro is a portable 25-key USB-C MIDI keyboard controller designed for music production on various devices. It features velocity-sensitive keys, 8 drum pads, an OLED display, and a range of creative controls including Smart Dynamic Scale Mode, Arpeggio, Note Repeat, and Chord functions. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your DMK 25 Pro.

Image 1.1: Donner DMK 25 Pro MIDI Keyboard Controller. This image displays the compact and portable design of the DMK 25 Pro, highlighting its 25 keys, 8 drum pads, and various control elements.

2. Safety Information

• Do not expose the device to rain, moisture, or extreme temperatures.
• Avoid placing the device near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
• Do not open the casing or attempt to modify the device. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• Use only the specified power supply and cables to prevent damage or malfunction.
• Keep the device away from children.

3. Package Contents

• Donner DMK 25 Pro MIDI Keyboard Controller
• USB-A to USB-C Cable
• USB-C to USB-C Adapter
• User Manual

4. Product Overview

The DMK 25 Pro features a compact layout with essential controls for music creation. Key components include:

• 25 Velocity-Sensitive Keys: Standard piano-style keys for melodic input.
• 8 Velocity-Sensitive Drum Pads: For rhythmic input and sample triggering.
• OLED Display: Shows real-time information for various functions.
• Pitch/Mod Touch Bar: For expressive control over pitch and modulation.
• 4 Assignable Knobs/Faders: For controlling parameters in your DAW.
• Transport Controls: Play, Stop, Record, and other DAW navigation buttons.

Image 4.1: Close-up of the DMK 25 Pro's OLED display. The display shows real-time feedback for parameters like Air Touch, Program, and Channel settings.

5. Setup

The DMK 25 Pro is a plug-and-play device. It does not produce sound on its own and requires connection to a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software on a computer or mobile device.

Image 5.1: Connection Guide for the DMK 25 Pro. This diagram illustrates how to connect the MIDI keyboard to a sustain pedal, a PC using a USB-A to USB-C cable, and a phone/iPad using a USB-C cable and OTG adapter.

5.1 Connecting to a Computer (PC/Mac)

1. Connect the provided USB-A to USB-C cable to the USB-C port on the DMK 25 Pro.
2. Plug the USB-A end of the cable into an available USB port on your computer.
3. The DMK 25 Pro is class-compliant and typically does not require additional drivers. Your computer should recognize it automatically.

5.2 Connecting to Mobile Devices (Smartphone/Tablet)

1. Connect the provided USB-C to USB-C adapter to the USB-C port on the DMK 25 Pro.
2. Connect the USB-C end of the cable to your mobile device. Ensure your mobile device supports OTG (On-The-Go) functionality.
3. If your mobile device uses a Micro USB or Lightning interface, you will need to purchase a compatible OTG adapter separately.

5.3 Connecting a Sustain Pedal

1. Plug your sustain pedal into the dedicated sustain jack on the DMK 25 Pro.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Basic Operation

Once connected to your computer or mobile device with DAW software running, the DMK 25 Pro will send MIDI data when keys are pressed or pads are hit. The OLED display will show real-time feedback for various parameters.

6.2 Smart Dynamic Scale Mode

The Smart Dynamic Scale Mode allows you to play essential bass lines, melodies, and leads easily. It offers 16-scale tones, enabling quick switching between musical genres. Refer to the user manual for specific instructions on activating and selecting scales.

Image 6.1: DMK 25 Pro highlighting Smart Scales, Arpeggio, and Replay functions. These features enhance musical creativity and performance.

6.3 Real-time Multi-Mode Control (Arpeggio, Note Repeat, Chord)

Unleash creativity with built-in Arpeggio, Note Repeat, and Chord functions. These allow for the creation of complex musical patterns and chords with ease. Consult the detailed user manual for activation and parameter adjustment.

6.4 Personalized Touch Bar (Pitch/Mod)

The Pitch/Mod touch bar provides intuitive control over pitch bending and modulation, adding expression to your performances. The light scale on the touch bar offers visual feedback.

Image 6.2: Close-up of the DMK 25 Pro's personalized touch bar. This touch-sensitive strip allows for expressive control over pitch and modulation, with a light scale providing visual feedback.

6.5 Innovative Wheels (Faders/Knobs)

The 4 innovative wheels (faders/knobs) offer greater visual control and comfort. They can be custom-mapped to allocate information you need to control within your DAW. Additionally, 6 transport controllers improve arrangement efficiency.

Image 6.3: Close-up of the DMK 25 Pro's innovative wheels and transport controls. These assignable faders and buttons provide hands-on control over DAW parameters.

6.6 Velocity-Sensitive Curves

The DMK 25 Pro features 4 exquisite velocity-sensitive curves (Normal, Hard, Light, Fixed) for its keys and drum pads. These curves allow for personalized touch response, providing precise control over dynamics.

Image 6.4: Diagram illustrating the 4 velocity-sensitive curves of the DMK 25 Pro. These curves (Normal, Hard, Light, Fixed) allow users to customize the keyboard's touch response.

6.7 DAW Compatibility & Software

The DMK 25 Pro is compatible with various DAWs such as Cubase LE, Live, Logic Pro, Protools, Studio One, etc. It offers a full music production experience. Contact customer service to obtain your included DAW software.

Image 6.5: DMK 25 Pro with laptop displaying DAW software. This image highlights the inclusion of 40 Melodics courses and Cubase LE, Cubasis LE, and WaveLab LE software.

6.8 Keyboard Teaching Courses

The product includes access to 40 beginner to advanced keyboard teaching courses, perfect for music arrangement novices. These engaging lessons cover essential arrangement techniques.

Video 6.1: Official Donner video demonstrating 'How to download and install MELODICS'. This video provides instructions for accessing the included teaching courses.

Video 6.2: Official Donner video titled 'Donner DMK-25 Pro Features & Tutorials'. This comprehensive video provides an in-depth look at the various features and operational aspects of the DMK 25 Pro.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the device. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
• Storage: Store the DMK 25 Pro in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.

8. Troubleshooting

• No Sound Output: The DMK 25 Pro is a MIDI controller and does not produce sound on its own. Ensure it is connected to a computer or mobile device running DAW software with an instrument loaded.
• Connection Issues: Verify that the USB cable is securely connected to both the controller and your device. For mobile devices, ensure the correct OTG adapter is used and your device supports OTG. Try a different USB port or cable.
• Keys/Pads Unresponsive: Check your DAW's MIDI settings to ensure the DMK 25 Pro is recognized and enabled as an input device. Restart your DAW and/or computer.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

Donner products come with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, please refer to the warranty card included in your package or visit the official Donner website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or any other inquiries, please contact Donner customer service through their official channels.