Controls, Indicators, and External Connections
Front Panel Controls
The RockJAM 61-key keyboard features a comprehensive set of controls for various functions. These include:
- Stereo Speakers: For audio output.
- Power Switch: To turn the keyboard on or off.
- Sync (Synchronize): Activates synchronized accompaniment.
- Single Finger Chords: Enables simplified chord playing.
- Fingered Chords: Enables playing chords with full finger patterns.
- Chord Tone: Adjusts the tone of the chords.
- Split Keyboard (Split): Divides the keyboard into two sections for different tones.
- Fill In: Adds a musical fill during rhythm playback.
- Main Volume +/-: Adjusts the overall volume of the keyboard.
- Accompaniment Volume +/-: Adjusts the volume of the automatic accompaniment.
- Transpose +/-: Shifts the musical key up or down.
- Tempo [Fast/Slow]: Adjusts the speed of rhythms, metronome, and demo songs.
- Intro/Ending: Activates introduction and ending sections for rhythms.
- Memory (MEM): For saving and recalling keyboard settings.
- Memory Storage 1 (M1) & 2 (M2): Specific memory slots.
- Play/Pause (►II): Controls playback of recorded music or MP3s.
- Previous Track (K◄) & Next Track (►►I): Navigates through music tracks.
- Music Volume - & +: Adjusts the volume of external music playback (e.g., USB MP3).
- Start/Stop: Initiates or halts rhythms and recording.
- Metronome: Activates the metronome function.
- Vibrato: Adds a vibrato effect to notes.
- Sustain: Prolongs the sound of notes.
- Teach 1, Teach 2, Teach 3: Activates different intelligent teaching modes.
- Number Buttons (0-9): For selecting tones, rhythms, and other numerical inputs.
- Demo: Plays demonstration songs.
- Program: Enters rhythm programming mode.
- Rhythm (RHY): Selects and activates rhythm patterns.
- Playback (PLAY): Plays back recorded performances.
- Tones (TONE): Selects instrument tones.
- Record (REC): Activates the recording function.
- Keyboard Playback Area: The main area of the keyboard for playing melodies.
- Chord Keyboard Area: The left-hand section of the keyboard used for chord accompaniment.
- Pitch Bend Wheel: Allows for continuous pitch variation of notes.
- Tone List & Rhythm List: Reference points for available tones and rhythms.
- LED Display: A 3-digit display showing current settings and modes.
External Connections
The rear panel of the keyboard provides various ports for external connectivity:
- USB Input: For playing MP3 music files from a USB memory stick.
- AUX IN: For connecting external audio devices like phones or tablets to play music through the keyboard's speakers.
- MIC Input: For connecting an electret or condenser microphone (not included).
- Headphone Output: A 3.5mm jack for connecting headphones, which automatically mutes the internal speakers.
- DC IN 9V: The power input jack for the supplied 9V DC adapter.
LED Display
The keyboard features a 3-digit LED display that shows various operational parameters, such as volume level, selected tone, rhythm number, and teaching mode indicators.
Preparation Before First Use
Stand Assembly
To assemble the keyboard stand, use the supplied screws and Allen key. The stand consists of a frame, lower feet, and upper bars. Once assembled, the keyboard can be secured to the stand using straps and screws connected to the upper bars. The stand's height can be adjusted.
Power Supply
Using the AC/DC Power Adapter
Use only the specific 9V DC, 500mA, center-positive AC/DC adapter provided with the electronic keyboard. Connect the DC plug of the adapter to the 9V DC power jack on the rear of the keyboard, then connect the other end to a main power outlet and turn it on.
Caution: When the keyboard is not in use, unplug the power adapter from the main power outlet.
The manual illustrates different power plug types for the US/Canada, European Union, and United Kingdom, all connecting to the keyboard's DC IN 9V port.
Battery Operation
Open the battery cover on the bottom of the electronic keyboard and insert six 1.5V AA alkaline batteries. Ensure batteries are inserted with correct polarity. Replace the battery cover.
Caution: Do not mix old and new batteries. Do not leave batteries in the keyboard if it will not be used for an extended period. This will prevent possible damage from battery leakage.
Auto Power Off
The keyboard has an energy-saving feature that automatically turns off the keyboard after approximately 4 to 5 minutes of inactivity. Press the power (on/off) button to turn it back on.
Jacks and Accessories
Headphone Use
Connect a 3.5mm headphone jack to the [PHONES] jack on the rear of the keyboard. The internal speaker will automatically cut off once headphones are connected.
Connecting an Amplifier or Hi-Fi System
The electronic keyboard has a built-in speaker system, but it can also be connected to an external amplifier or other hi-fi equipment. First, turn off the power to both the keyboard and any external equipment you wish to connect. Then, insert one end of a stereo audio cable (not included) into the LINE IN or AUX IN jack of the external equipment and connect the other end to the [PHONES] jack on the rear of the electronic keyboard.
Connecting a Phone or Audio Device to the AUX Input
This keyboard has a built-in speaker system that can be used to play music from your phone or mobile device. Insert one end of a stereo audio cable into the AUX IN jack on the rear of the keyboard and connect the other end to your phone or audio device. Ensure the keyboard is powered on. Use the phone's volume control to manage the music volume. The AUX IN cable is not included.
Connecting a Microphone
Connect a 3.5mm microphone plug to the [MIC] jack on the rear of the keyboard. Note that the keyboard requires an electret or condenser microphone, which is not included.
Playing MP3 Music Files from a USB Memory Stick
Insert a USB memory stick into the USB input on the rear of the keyboard. Press the PLAY/PAUSE button to start and stop music playback. Once music begins playing, you can skip forward and backward through MP3 tracks by pressing the control buttons. Adjust the music playback volume with the VOL - and + keys. Use the keyboard keys to play along.
Keyboard Operation
Power and Volume
Power Control
Press the [POWER] button to turn the power ON, and again to turn the power OFF. The LED light will indicate that the power is on.
Main Volume Adjustment
The keyboard has 16 volume levels, from V00 (off) to V15. To change the volume, press the [VOLUME ▲ /▼] buttons. The volume level is indicated on the LED Display. Pressing both [VOLUME ▲ /▼] buttons simultaneously will reset the Main Volume to the default level (V10). The volume level will reset to V10 once the power is turned off and on again.
Tone
Tone Selection
When the keyboard is powered on, the default [TONE] is Grand Piano "t00". To change the tone, first press the [TONE] button, then directly enter the number code using the 0-9 number buttons on the keyboard. Tones can also be changed using the + / - keys. Refer to Appendix III for a list of available tones.
Effect and Control
Split Keyboard (Split)
To activate Split Keyboard mode, press the [SPLIT] button. The LED will display [DIV] ([SPL]). The keyboard will be divided into two sections from key 24 on the left. You can adjust the tone of the right-hand section by pressing the corresponding 0-9 digits on the number pad. The tone of the left-hand section will remain set to the tone chosen before entering Split mode. In Split Keyboard mode, the tone of the left-hand keys increases by one octave, and the right-hand keys decrease by one octave. Press the [SPLIT] button again to exit Split mode.
The manual illustrates the split point, showing "TONE 1" for the left section and "TONE 2" for the right section.
Sustain
Press the [SUSTAIN] button to enter Sustain mode. The LED display will briefly show [SUS] to indicate that sustain is active. Once this mode is selected, the sound of each note played is prolonged. Pressing the [SUSTAIN] button again will deactivate the default sustain and exit this mode.
Vibrato
Press the [VIBRATO] button to enter Vibrato mode. The LED display will briefly show [Vib] to indicate that vibrato is active. Once this mode is selected, a vibrato effect is added to the end of the note each time a note is played. Pressing the [VIBRATO] button again will deactivate the Vibrato function and exit this mode.
Transpose
Pressing the [TRANSPOSE +/-] buttons alters the musical scale of the note being played. You can adjust the scale by 6 levels up or down. Pressing both [TRANSPOSE +/-] buttons simultaneously will reset the musical scale to 00. The transposition level will reset to 00 after powering off and on.
Metronome
Press the [METRONOME] button to start the metronome tick-tock beat. There are four beat times to choose from. Depending on the performance needed, you can press the [TEMPO ▲ /▼] buttons to increase or decrease the speed. Press the [METRONOME] button repeatedly to cycle through the desired beat pattern. The LED display will indicate the beat time you have chosen. The metronome effect is added to the music once it is playing. To exit this mode, press the [START/STOP] button or [METRONOME] again.
Percussion Instrument Panel
To access percussion sounds, first press the [TONE] button and then select tone number 128 on the keyboard. Once the tone is selected, the keyboard keys become percussion instruments and play percussion sounds accordingly. Refer to Appendix I for a table showing the available percussion sounds.
Using the Pitch Bend Wheel
Use the pitch bend wheel to adjust the pitch of a note up or down for continuous pitch variation between notes. This feature can help recreate an authentic playback sound for instruments like strings and trombone, where the original instrument can slide up between notes. It is also a common tool used for synthesizer compositions.
Rhythm Functions
Selecting the Rhythm
You can choose any of the 200 built-in rhythms. Refer to Appendix II for the detailed rhythm table. Press the [RHYTHM] button to activate the selected Rhythm function. The LED display will show the current selected rhythm. You can select the desired rhythm by pressing the corresponding digits on the number pad or by pressing the + / - buttons.
Start / Stop
Press the Start / Stop button to play the rhythm. Press the Start / Stop button again to stop the rhythm.
Sync (Synchronize)
Press the [SYNC] button to activate the synchronize accompaniment function. Press any of the first 19 left-hand keys on the keyboard to activate rhythm playback. Press the Start / Stop button to suspend the rhythm and exit the synchronize function.
Fill In
You can complete a time interval by pressing the [FILL IN] button during rhythm playback. After the fill-in, it will continue playing normally.
Accompaniment Volume Adjustment
The Accompaniment Volume can be adjusted by pressing the [ACCOMP VOLUME ▲ /▼] buttons. The LED display will show the volume as it is adjusted. The adjustment range has 16 levels, shown as 000 - 015, and indicated by bars on the LED display. Pressing both [ACCOMP VOLUME ▲ /▼] buttons simultaneously will reset the accompaniment volume to the default level (010). The Main Volume control will also affect the output level of the accompaniment. At power on, the accompaniment volume will reset to the default level.
Tempo Adjustment
Press the [TEMPO ▲ /▼] buttons to adjust the playback tempo of the rhythm, metronome, and demo songs. The adjustment range is 30-240 bpm. Pressing both [TEMPO ▲ /▼] buttons simultaneously will reset the tempo to the default tempo for the selected rhythm. When powered on, the tempo resets to 120 bpm.
Chord Accompaniment
Single Finger Chords
Press the [SINGLE] button to activate the single finger chord function. The LED monitor will show [C-1] which are reproduced by pressing certain keys in the left-hand chord key area of the keyboard (keys 1-19). The required finger patterns are shown in Appendix VI. Press the [START / STOP] button to activate or suspend the accompaniment chord. Press the [SINGLE] button again to exit single finger chord mode.
Fingered Chords
Press the [FINGERED] button to activate the fingered chord function. The LED monitor will show [C-2] which are reproduced by pressing certain keys in the left-hand chord key area of the keyboard (keys 1-19). The required finger patterns are shown in Appendix VI. Press the [START / STOP] button to activate or suspend the accompaniment chord. Press the [FINGERED] button again to exit fingered chord mode. Note that no sound will be produced unless the finger pattern is correctly formed.
Chord Tone
In fingered or single finger chord mode, press the [CHORD TONE] button repeatedly to select the desired chord tone. There are 7 chord tones to choose from, indicated on the LED display as [00] to [06]. The chord tone will reset to [00] after powering off / on.
Recording and Programming
Intro / Ending
Press the [INTRO / ENDING] button to activate the introduction section. When the introduction playback finishes, the accompaniment shifts to the main section. Press the [INTRO / ENDING] button again to enable the ending section. When the ending is complete, auto accompaniment automatically deactivates.
Recording Function
Press the [REC] button to activate recording mode. The LED indicates that the recording function is active by showing [REC] on the LED display. Press any key to start recording. The maximum recording capacity is 46 notes. When the recording capacity is full, the LED display will show [FUL]. Each time the [REC] button is pressed, the previous memory will be cleared, and the keyboard will activate recording mode again.
Press the [PLAYBACK] button to play the recorded notes.
Rhythm Programming
Press the [PROGRAM] button to activate Rhythm Program mode. The LED will indicate if the rhythm program function is active by showing [Pr9]. You can then play the keyboard and record your percussion track (up to 46 percussion times). To listen to your piece, press the [PLAYBACK] button, and the keyboard will play your edited percussion. You can then play along with your recorded percussion. You can adjust the playback speed using the [TEMPO ▲ /▼] buttons. To suspend Programming mode, press the [PROGRAM] button again.
Demo Songs
Press the [DEMO] button to play a demonstration song. The LED display will show [dXX] where XX is the demo song number, from 00 to 39. By pressing the + and - buttons on the number pad, you can choose the desired demo song. There are a total of 40 demo songs to choose from. The keyboard will finish the selected song and then play the next song. Press the [DEMO] button again to exit demo mode. Refer to Appendix IV for a list of available demo songs.
Memory M1 and M2 Setup
The keyboard has two built-in memories for saving specific tones, rhythms, and tempos. Before doing so, select the TONE, RHYTHM, and TEMPO you wish to use. When you hold down the [MEMORY] button, press the [M1] or [M2] button, the LED display will show [S1] or [S2], and this will save the keyboard settings to that memory. You can access the saved settings by pressing the [M1] or [M2] buttons; the LED display will show [n1] or [n2]. Note that M1 and M2 memories will be cleared after the keyboard is powered off and on again.
Teaching Modes
Initial Course (TEACH 1)
Press the [TEACH 1] button to enter Initial Course teaching mode. This mode is suitable for beginners to familiarize themselves with the rhythm and tempo of songs. The LED display will show [dXX] where XX is the selected song number, from 00 to 39 (refer to Appendix IV for the song list). Use the keyboard or the + and - keys to select the desired song. The rhythm beat point will flash on the LED display to indicate the tempo. The LED display will indicate which key to press, for example, C 6. Use the adhesive labels provided with the keyboard, sticking them to the keys to know which key to press. The keyboard will play the main melody simultaneously with any key pressed, even incorrect ones.
Intermediate Course (TEACH 2)
Press the [TEACH 2] button to enter Intermediate Course teaching mode. This mode is suitable for intermediate users. The LED display will show [d00] where XX is the selected song number, from 00 to 39 (refer to Appendix IV for the song list). Use the keyboard or the + and - keys to select the desired song. The rhythm beat point will flash on the LED display to indicate the tempo. The LED display will indicate which key to press, for example, C 6. Once the correct key is pressed, it will move to the next section of the song. Use the adhesive labels provided with the keyboard applied to the keys to know which key to press.
Advanced Course (TEACH 3)
Press the [TEACH 3] button to activate Advanced Course teaching mode. This mode is suitable for more advanced users. The LED display will show [d00] where XX is the selected song number, from 00 to 39 (refer to Appendix IV for the song list). Use the keyboard or the + and - keys to select the desired song. The rhythm beat point will flash on the LED display to indicate the tempo. The LED display will indicate which key to press, for example, C 6. Use the adhesive labels provided with the keyboard, sticking them to the keys to know which key to press. The keyboard will play the main melody simultaneously with any key pressed, even incorrect ones. Note that the song will continue playing even if an incorrect key is pressed.
Progressive Teaching
In general, follow the sequence below to master any of the included songs:
- Listen to the song in DEMO mode to get an idea of the note timings and rhythm.
- Once confident, move to the next stage.
- Access the same song in Initial Course mode [TEACH 1] and duplicate the note timings and key presses. When you master this, switch to Intermediate Course (TEACH 2) and then to Advanced Course (TEACH 3).
Appendices
Appendix I. Percussion Instruments
This appendix provides a detailed mapping of 61 percussion sounds to specific keyboard keys. When tone 128 is selected, the keyboard keys transform into percussion instruments, allowing users to play various drum and percussion sounds.
Appendix II. Rhythm Table
This appendix lists all 200 built-in rhythms available on the keyboard, identified by a numerical code (00-199) and their respective names (e.g., Mambo, Waltz, Reggae, Pop, Latin, etc.).
Appendix III. Tone Table
This appendix lists all 200 unique instrument tones available on the keyboard, identified by a numerical code (00-199) and their respective names (e.g., Piano, Vibraphone, Church Organ, Electric Guitar, String, Mandolin, etc.).
Appendix IV. Demo Song Table
This appendix lists all 40 demonstration songs available on the keyboard, identified by a numerical code (00-39) and their respective names (e.g., Lambada, Fur Elise, Happy Birthday to You, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, etc.).
Appendix V. Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to common problems encountered with the keyboard:
- Problem: A slight noise is heard when turning the power on or off.
- Solution: This is normal and nothing to worry about.
- Problem: After turning on the keyboard, no sound is heard when keys are pressed.
- Solution: Verify that the volume is set correctly. Check if headphones or any other equipment are connected to the keyboard, which would automatically disconnect the built-in speaker system. Ensure that "Fingered Chords" mode is not selected, as incorrect key presses in this mode will not produce sound.
- Problem: The sound is distorted or interrupted, and the keyboard is not functioning correctly.
- Solution: This may be due to using an incorrect power adapter. Use the supplied power adapter or replace the batteries if necessary.
- Problem: There is a slight difference in timbre for some notes.
- Solution: This is normal and caused by the different voice sampling ranges of the keyboard.
- Problem: When using the sustain function, some tones have long sustain and some have short sustain.
- Solution: This is normal. The optimal sustain length for different tones has been pre-configured.
- Problem: The main volume or accompaniment volume is incorrect.
- Solution: Check that the main volume and accompaniment volume are set correctly. Note that the main volume also affects the accompaniment volume.
- Problem: In SYNC mode, automatic accompaniment does not work.
- Solution: Verify that "Chord" mode has been selected and then play a note on one of the 19 keys on the left side of the keyboard.
- Problem: The note tone is incorrect.
- Solution: Check that transposition is set to 00.
- Problem: The keyboard turns off unexpectedly.
- Solution: This is not a fault. The keyboard has an energy-saving function that turns it off after a period of inactivity. Press the power (on/off) button to turn it back on.
- Problem: The left-side keys (first 19 keys) do not emit sound.
- Solution: Verify that "FINGERED CHORD" mode has not been selected. Note that sound will only be produced when a correct chord pattern is played. Refer to Appendix VI, "Fingered Chords".
Appendix VI. Chord Tables
This appendix provides visual diagrams illustrating the correct key patterns for both Single Finger and Fingered Chords. These diagrams are essential for understanding how to form various chords on the keyboard's left-hand chord area (keys 1-19) to activate the automatic accompaniment feature.
Appendix VII. Technical Specification
- Display:
- LED Display, 3-Digits
- Tone:
- 200 unique tones
- Rhythm:
- 200 unique rhythms
- Demo:
- 40 different demonstration songs
- Effect and Control:
- Split Keyboard (Split), Sustain, Vibrato, Transposition, Pitch Bend
- Chords:
- Single finger mode, fingered mode, 7 chord tones
- Recording and Programming:
- 46 note recording memory, Playback, 46 rhythm programming
- Percussion:
- 12 different instruments
- Accompaniment Control:
- Start/Stop, Sync, Fill In, Intro/Ending, Tempo
- Intelligent Teaching:
- Metronome, 3 teaching modes
- External Jacks:
- Power Input, Headphone Output, Microphone Input (Electret), AUX Input, USB MP3 Playback
- Keyboard Range:
- C2-C7 (61 keys)
- Intonation:
- <3cent
- Weight:
- 3.2 kg
- Power Adapter:
- DC9V, 500mA
- Power Output:
- 2 W x 2
- Included Accessories:
- Power Adapter, Music Stand, Keyboard Stand, Stool, Headphones, User Guide, Keychains
Compliance and Disposal
FCC Compliance Declaration
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: This device may not cause harmful interference, and this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Instructions for Disposing of Products (European Union)
The symbol shown on the product indicates that the product is classified as Electrical or Electronic Equipment and should not be disposed of with other household or commercial waste at the end of its useful life. The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive (2002/96/EC) has been implemented to promote the recycling of products using the best available recovery and recycling techniques to minimize impact on the environment, treat any hazardous substances, and avoid landfill increase. When you no longer have use for this product, dispose of it using your local authority's recycling processes. For more information, contact your local authority or the retailer where the product was purchased.
EU and UK Regulatory Compliance
PDT Ltd., as the manufacturer, declares that the radio equipment described herein complies with Directive 2014/53/EU (Radio Equipment) and bears the CE and UKCA marks in accordance with that directive.
The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at: https://pdtuk.com/declaration-of-conformity-library/
European distributor and authorized representative: AVESTA, 33 Avenue du Maréchal - de - Lattre - de - Tassigny, 94120 Fontenay-sous-Bois, France.
This user guide applies to models: RJ5061, RJ6150, RJ6160, RJ6170. Keep for future reference.
Designed and manufactured by: PDT Ltd. Unit 4B, Greengate Industrial Estate, White Moss View, Middleton, Manchester, M24 1UN, United Kingdom - info@pdtuk.com - Copyright PDT Ltd. © 2023