User manual ZOOM MRS-8

Operation Manual © ZOOM Corporation Reproduction of this manual, in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited. USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS · Pay close attention to the labelling of the battery to make sure you choose the correct type. · When not using the unit for an extended period, remove the batteries from the unit. · If battery leakage has occurred, wipe the battery compartment and the battery terminals carefully to remove all remnants of battery fluid. · While using the unit, the battery compartment cover should be closed. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS In this manual, symbols are used to highlight warnings and cautions for you to read so that accidents can be prevented. The meanings of these symbols are as follows: This symbol indicates explanations about extremely dangerous matters. If users Warning ignore this symbol and handle the device the wrong way, serious injury or death could result. This symbol indicates explanations about · Environment To prevent the risk of fire, electric shock or Warning malfunction, avoid using your MRS-8 in environments where it will be exposed to: · Extreme temperatures · Heat sources such as radiators or stoves · High humidity or moisture · Excessive dust or sand · Excessive vibration or shock Caution symbol and handle the device the wrong way, bodily injury and damage to the equipment could result. Please observe the following safety tips and precautions to ensure hazard-free use of the MRS-8. dangerous matters. If users ignore this · Power requirements Since power consumption of this unit is fairly high, Warning we recommend the use of an AC adapter whenever possible. When powering the unit from batteries, use only alkaline types. [AC adapter operation] · Be sure to use only an AC adapter which supplies 9 V DC, 300 mA and is equipped with a "center minus" plug (Zoom AD-0006). The use of an adapter other than the specified type may damage the unit and pose a safety hazard. · Connect the AC adapter only to an AC outlet that supplies the rated voltage required by the adapter. · When disconnecting the AC adapter from the AC outlet, always grasp the adapter itself and do not pull at the cable. · During lightning or when not using the unit for an extended period, disconnect the AC adapter from the AC outlet. [Battery operation] · Use four conventional IEC R6 (size AA) batteries (alkaline). · The MRS-8 cannot be used for recharging. · Handling · Never place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the MRS-8 since this can cause electric Warning shock. · Do not place naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, on the MRS-8 since this can cause fire. The MRS-8 is a precision instrument. Do not exert Caution undue pressure on the keys and other controls. Also take care not to drop the unit, and do not subject it to shock or excessive pressure. · Connecting cables and input and output jacks You should always turn off the power to the MRS-8 Caution and all other equipment before connecting or disconnecting any cables. Also make sure to disconnect all connection cables and the power cord before moving the MRS-8. · Alterations Never open the case of the MRS-8 or attempt to Warning modify the product in any way since this can result in damage to the unit. · Volume Do not use the MRS-8 at a loud volume for a long Caution time since this can cause hearing impairment. ZOOM MRS-8 2 USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Usage Precautions · Electrical interference For safety considerations, the MRS-8 has been designed to provide maximum protection against the emission of electromagnetic radiation from inside the device, and protection from external interference. However, equipment that is very susceptible to interference or that emits powerful electromagnetic waves should not be placed near the MRS8, as the possibility of interference cannot be ruled out entirely. With any type of digital control device, the MRS-8 included, electromagnetic interference can cause malfunctioning and can corrupt or destroy data. Care should be taken to minimize the risk of damage. * MIDI is a registered trademark of Association of Musical Electronics Industry(AMEI). * SD Logo is a trademark. * All trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned in this manual are for identification purposes only and are not intended to infringe on the copyrighted properties of their respective owners. · Cleaning Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the MRS-8. If necessary, slightly moisten the cloth. Do not use abrasive cleanser, wax, or solvents (such as paint thinner or cleaning alcohol), since these may dull the finish or damage the surface. · Backup The data of MRS-8 can be lost because of malfunction or incorrect operation. Backup your data. · Copyrights Except for personal use, unauthorized recording from copyrighted sources(CDs, records, tapes, video clips, broadcast material and so on) is prohibited. ZOOM Corporation does not bear any liability for injunctions regarding the copyright law infringement. Please keep this manual in a convenient place for future reference. ZOOM MRS-8 3 Contents USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Introducing the MRS-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Rhythm section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Mixer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Step 4: Mixing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 4.1 4.2 4.3 Adjusting volume, panning, and EQ. . . . . . 26 Applying the send/return effect . . . . . . . . . 27 Applying the insert effect to a track. . . . . . 28 Step 5: Mixdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 5.1 5.2 Using the mastering effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Mixdown onto the master track . . . . . . . . . 30 Reference [Recorder] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 V-takes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Switching V-takes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Changing the V-take name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Names of Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Front panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Rear panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Moving to a desired point in the song (locate function) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Setting marks in a song (marker function) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Setting a mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Locating a mark. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Deleting a mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Inserting SD Card and Batteries. . . . . . 13 Inserting an SD card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Inserting the batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Playing back the same passage repeatedly (A-B repeat function). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Re-recording only a specified region (punch-in/out function) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Manual punch-in/out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Auto punch-in/out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Power On/Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Power-on. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Power-off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Let's Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Quick Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Step 1: Preparations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 1.1 1.2 Creating a new project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Selecting the rhythm pattern to use. . . . . 18 Recording several tracks on a master track (mixdown function) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 About the master track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Master track mixdown steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Playing the master track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Combining multiple tracks on one or two tracks (bounce function) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Making bounce settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Executing bounce recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Step 2: Recording the first track . . . . . . . . . . 20 2.1 2.2 2.3 Adjusting input sensitivity. . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Applying the insert effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Selecting a track and recording . . . . . . . . 23 Recording drum/bass sound on audio tracks (rhythm recording) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Selecting the recording source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Rhythm recording procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Making settings for pre-count operation . . . 43 Step 3: Overdubbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 3.1 3.2 Making settings for input sensitivity and insert effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Selecting a track and recording . . . . . . . . 25 4 ZOOM MRS-8 Contents Reference [Track Editing] . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Editing a range of data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Basic steps for range editing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Copying a specified range of data. . . . . . . . . . . . Moving a specified range of data . . . . . . . . . . . . Erasing a specified range of data . . . . . . . . . . . . Trimming a specified range of data. . . . . . . . . . . Fade-in/fade-out of specified data range . . . . . . Reversing a specified range of audio data . . . . . Basic steps for V-take editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erasing a V-take . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Copying a V-take . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Moving a V-take. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Exchanging V-takes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Importing a V-take from another project . . . . . . . 44 45 46 47 47 48 49 50 51 51 51 52 52 Editing rhythm patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Copying a rhythm pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Erasing a rhythm pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Creating a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Selecting a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Entering pattern information using step input. . . . 77 Using FAST for pattern information input . . . . . . . 79 Entering chord information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Entering other information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Editing using V-takes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Playing a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Editing a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Copying a specified range of measures . . . . . . . Transposing the entire rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . Copying a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erasing the rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assigning a name to a rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . 85 85 86 87 87 Track capture and swap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Capturing a track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Swapping track data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Importing rhythm patterns and rhythm songs from another project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Editing various settings of the rhythm section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Basic procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Changing the length of the pre-count . . . . . . . . . Changing the metronome volume. . . . . . . . . . . . Adjusting the sensitivity of the pads . . . . . . . . . . Checking the remaining amount of memory . . . . Swapping the left/right pan position . . . . . . . . . . 89 89 90 90 90 90 Reference [Mixer] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 About the mixer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Assigning input signals to recording tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Adjusting the signal for each track (track parameters) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Linking two tracks (stereo link) . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Reference [Effects] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 About the effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Using the insert effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 About insert effect patches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Changing the insert location of the insert effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Selecting the patch for the insert effect . . . . . . . Editing an insert effect patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Storing or swapping insert effect patches . . . . . Assigning a name to an insert effect patch. . . . . Applying the insert effect only to the monitor signal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 93 93 95 98 98 99 Reference [Rhythm] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 About the rhythm section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Drum kits and bass programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rhythm patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rhythm song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rhythm pattern mode and rhythm song mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Selecting a rhythm pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Changing the tempo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Changing the drum kit / bass program . . . . . . . . Using the pads to play drum/bass sounds . . . . . Preparations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Drum sequence real-time input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bass sequence real-time input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Drum sequence step input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bass sequence step input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Entering rhythm pattern chord information . . . . . Changing the drum/bass sequence volume level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assigning a name to a rhythm pattern. . . . . . . . . 61 62 62 62 63 63 64 64 66 67 69 70 71 73 74 75 Playing rhythm patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Using the send/return effect . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 About the send/return effect patches . . . . . . . . . 100 Selecting a send/return effect patch . . . . . . . . . . 100 Editing a send/return effect patch. . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Storing or swapping send/return effect patches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Assigning a name to a send/return effect patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Creating a rhythm pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Importing patches from another project . . . . 102 ZOOM MRS-8 5 Contents Reference [Projects]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 About projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Working with projects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Basic procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Loading a project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Creating a new project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Copying a project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erasing a project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Changing the project name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Protecting a project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 105 105 106 106 107 107 Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Problems during playback. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Problems during recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Problems with effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Problems with the rhythm section . . . . . . . 121 Problems with MIDI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Other problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Effect Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125 Insert Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125 Send/return Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133 Reference [MIDI] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 About MIDI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 What you can do using MIDI . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Making MIDI-related settings . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Basic procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Setting the drum kit/bass program MIDI channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Turning Timing Clock messages on or off. . . . . Turning Song Position Pointer messages on or off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Turning Start/Stop/Continue messages on or off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Turning MIDI Time Code (MTC) messages on or off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 109 109 110 110 110 Effect Patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134 Insert Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134 Send/return Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139 Rhythm Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 Drum Kits/Bass Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 Instrument/MIDI note number chart . . . . . . 142 Files on SD card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 MIDI implementation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 MIDI implementation chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144 Reference [Other Functions] . . . . . . . 111 Playing several projects continuously (sequence play) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Creating a playlist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Playing a playlist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145 Using the tuner function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Using the chromatic tuner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Using other tuning types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Switching the level meter display type . . . . 116 Adjusting the display contrast and backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Changing the SD card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Formatting an SD card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Checking the available SD card capacity/ project size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 6 ZOOM MRS-8 Introduction Thank you for selecting the ZOOM MRS-8 MultiTrak Recording Studio (simply called the "MRS-8" in this manual). The MRS-8 is a fascinating product with the following features. · Four major functions in a compact unit The MRS-8 combines an 8-track SD card recorder, effect device, digital mixer, and drum/bass machine in a single unit of amazingly compact dimensions. Everything you need to create music is right there. Use it to pre-produce a song at home or take it into the studio for some serious recording work. The MRS-8 is a great tool that will go anywhere. · Versatile input configuration handles a wide variety of sources In addition to the standard phone type jack, the MRS-8 features a combo type connector that can handle XLR plug leads (balanced) as well as phone plug leads (balanced and unbalanced). Guitar, bass, synthesizer and various other sources as well as microphones and direct boxes can be connected easily. A high-performance microphone is also built in, which is great for recording acoustic guitar or vocals. · Recorder with 8 tracks x 10 virtual takes The recorder section provides four mono tracks and two stereo tracks, resulting in a total of eight tracks. Each track has ten virtual tracks (V-takes). A bounce function lets you play all tracks and record the result on an empty V-take. · Dedicated master track for mixdown The master track is separate from the regular recording tracks and is optimized for mixdown with a minimum of fuss. A sequence play function lets you play the master tracks of multiple songs in succession, which is convenient for moving mixed-down songs onto an external recorder in one go. · Full-function mixer The built-in digital mixer handles the audio tracks and drum/bass sounds and allows adjusting parameters such as level, panning, EQ, and effect intensity. The result is a full-fledged stereo mix to which the input signal can also be added. · Two versatile effects The MRS-8 provides an insert effect for processing the input signal and/or any track, and a send/return effect that is used via the mixer send/return loop. The insert effect can be used as mastering effect for the stereo mix, for adjusting the sound pressure and tonal quality during mixdown. · Rhythm section can be used to provide guide rhythm or accompaniment Realistic PCM sources produce drum and bass sounds that can be played in more than 500 rhythm patterns. By programming a combination of patterns and setting a chord progression, you can build the rhythm accompaniment to an entire song. · Compatible with system-wide synchronization The MIDI OUT connector can supply synchronization messages such as MIDI time code information and MIDI clock information. In combination with a computer, MIDI sequencer or similar device, this lets you create a system with professional-level synchronization. · Built-in tuner with support for various tuning methods Besides the standard chromatic type, the tuner function of the MRS-8 also caters for 7-string guitar, 5-string bass, and other special tuning needs. In order to take full advantage of the MRS-8's versatile functions and to ensure trouble-free enjoyment, please read this manual carefully. Keep this manual in a safe place together with the warranty card. ZOOM MRS-8 7 Introducing the MRS-8 The MRS-8 is internally divided into the following four sections. Recorder Records and plays back audio signals. Rhythm section Recorder The recorder section of the MRS-8 has eight audio tracks. (A "track" is a separate section for recording audio data.) There are four mono tracks (track 1 ­ 4) and two stereo tracks (tracks 5/6 and 7/8). Up to 2 tracks can be recorded simultaneously and up to 8 tracks can be played back simultaneously. Each of the tracks has ten switchable virtual tracks (called "V-takes"). For each track, one V-take can be selected for recording/playback. Uses the internal drum/bass sound source to play rhythms. Mixer Mixes the signals from the recorder and the drum/bass sound source into a stereo signal, for output via the output jacks and for mixdown on dedicated master tracks. Effects Process input signals, recorder playback signals, or drum/ bass sound source signals in various ways, to achieve various sound characteristics. The following diagram shows the relationship and signal flow between each section. Recorder INPUT 1 or Built-in mic INPUT 2 Track 1 Track 2 Track 3 Track 4 Tracks 5/6 Tracks 7/8 From immediately after [MASTER] fader To immediately before [MASTER] fader To master track MASTER OUTPUT Insert effect Master Track Rhythm section Drum sound source Bass sound source DRUM BASS 1 2 3 4 5/6 7/8 MASTER Send/return effect Mixer From master track 8 ZOOM MRS-8 Introducing the MRS-8 Currently selected V-take on tracks 1 ­ 8 and master track Mixer The playback signals from the audio tracks and the drum/ bass sounds are sent to the built-in digital mixer to create a stereo mix. For each track/sound, parameters such as volume, panning, and 2-band EQ (Hi and Lo) can be controlled independently. The resulting stereo mix is sent to the output jacks and can be sent to an empty V-take of the master track or any other tracks, for mixdown and bounce operation. V-take 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 2 3 4 5/6 7/8 Master track Tracks The recorder section also provides a set of stereo tracks which are separate from the normal audio tracks. This is called the master track. The master track is reserved for use in mixdown. Effects The MRS-8 provides two types of effects: insert effect and send/return effect. These effects have the characteristics described below. Rhythm section The MRS-8 contains a rhythm section that operates in sync with the recorder. It offers 511 accompaniment patterns (called "rhythm patterns") that use the internal d r u m / b a s s s o u n d g e n e r a t o r. Yo u c a n u s e t h e preprogrammed patterns, modify them in part, or create entirely new patterns from scratch. Recorder Track 1 Track 2 Track 3 Insert effect This effect can be inserted at one of the following three points in the signal path. (1) (2) (3) Immediately after the input In the output of any audio track or drum track/bass sound Immediately before the [MASTER] fader Rhythm section Rhythm Rhythm pattern pattern Rhythm pattern Drum sound Bass sound To mixer To mixer In the default condition, position (1) (immediately after input) is selected. When the setting is changed to (2), only a selected track or drum/bass sound is processed by the effect. When the setting is changed to (3), the final stereo mix can be processed. Send/return effect This effect is internally connected to the send/return loop of the mixer section. The effect includes reverb, chorus and other processing types. The level of the signal supplied to the send/return effect (send level) for each track/sound adjusts the depth of the effect. Raising the send level will produce a deeper effect for that track or sound. HINT The drum/bass sound sources can be also played with the pads on the top panel. You can arrange rhythm patterns in the desired order of playback, and program chords and tempo to create the rhythm accompaniment for an entire song. (This is called a "rhythm song".) Up to 10 rhythm songs can be created, among which one is selected for editing/playback. ZOOM MRS-8 9 Names of Parts Front panel Input section Display section Control section Effect section Rhythm section Built-in mic Fader section Transport section Input section [INPUT] controls 1/2 [PEAK] indicators Rhythm section [SONG/PATTERN] key [DRUM/BASS] key [TEMPO] key [MIC] key INPUT [ON/OFF] keys 1/2 Pads 1 ­ 9 Effect section [INSERT EFFECT] key [INPUT SRC] key [SEND/RETURN] key 10 ZOOM MRS-8 Names of Parts Display section [SD CARD ACCESS] indicator Display Control section MARKER [U] / [I] keys [AUTO PUNCH I/O] key [BOUNCE] key [A-B REPEAT] key [MARK/CLEAR] key [FUNCTION] key [EXIT] key [SYSTEM/UTILITY] key [TRACK PARAMETER] key [EDIT] key [NEW PROJECT] key Fader section Status keys ([RHYTHM], 1 ­ 4, 5/6, 7/8, [MASTER]) Cursor keys [ENTER] key Dial Transport section REW [T] key ZERO [U] key FF [Y] key Faders ([RHYTHM], 1 ­ 4, 5/6, 7/8, [MASTER]) STOP [P] key REC [O] key PLAY [R] key Rear panel MASTER OUTPUT jacks PHONES jack INPUT 1/2 connectors DC 9V jack MIDI OUT connector [POWER ON/OFF] switch Card slot [PHONES] volume control [INPUT 1 SELECT] switch ZOOM MRS-8 11 Connections The INPUT 1 connector accepts a standard phone plug cable (unbalanced). The INPUT 2 connector accepts an XLR plug cable (balanced) or a phone plug cable (balanced or unbalanced). MIDI sequencer (computer etc.) Guitar When a passive electric guitar/bass or other instrument with high output impedance is connected to INPUT 1, set the [INPUT 1 SELECT] switch to GUITAR/BASS. When an active electric guitar/bass, a dynamic microphone, synthesizer or other device with low output impedance is connected to INPUT 1, set the [INPUT 1 SELECT] switch to MIC/LINE. MIDI interface MIDI IN Bass Rear panel Dynamic or condenser microphone AC adapter To power the MRS-8 from an AC outlet, be sure to use only the ZOOM AD-0006 (available separately). Using another AC adapter can lead to malfunction and damage. R L Loop the cable of the AC adapter around the hook as shown in the diagram before connecting it to the [DC 12V] jack. This will prevent the plug from being pulled out if the AC adaptor cable is accidentally pulled. Synthesizer or sampler etc. When connecting stereo output devices such as a synthesizer or CD player, connect the L output of the external device to INPUT 1 and the R output to INPUT 2. To monitor the sound with headphones, connect a pair of headphones to the PHONES jack. The listening volume can Headphones be adjusted with the PHONES control. To prevent damage to the speakers of your monitor system, turn off the power of the system connected to the output jacks (or turn the volume all the way down) before you make connections. Monitor system (audio components or amplified speakers etc.) 12 ZOOM MRS-8 Inserting SD Card and Batteries Inserting an SD card For operating the MRS-8, an SD card or a miniSD card with adapter (capacity 16 MB or more) must be inserted as storage media. Before inserting a card, verify that the write protect feature is turned off. Make sure that power to the MRS-8 is turned off, and then insert the card as shown below. Inserting the batteries The MRS-8 can be powered from batteries. Purchase the correct batteries and insert them as described below. 1. Turn the unit over and open the battery compartment cover. IEC R6 (size AA) battery x 4 MRS-8 bottom view Battery compartment 2. 3. SD card Insert four IEC R6 (size AA) batteries into the compartment. (Use alkaline batteries.) Close the battery compartment cover. NOTE If you are operating the unit on battery power and the indication [ ] appears in the bottom right of the display, the batteries are almost exhausted. Replace all four batteries with fresh ones as soon as possible. When inserting the card, push it all the way into the slot. To remove the card, turn power off and then pull the card out. To remove or insert a card with the power turned on, be sure to follow the procedure described on page 117. Otherwise data may be permanently destroyed. NOTE · If the card is inserted with wrong orientation, it will not go all the way in. Never try to force the card, as this may damage it. ZOOM MRS-8 13 Power On/Off To turn the MRS-8 on and off, follow the steps described below. complete, the main screen appears. Power-on HINT 1. Make sure that the MRS-8 and peripheral equipment is turned off. Turn down the volume controls of connected equipment, the MRS-8, and the monitor system. Insert an SD card into the card slot. Set the [POWER ON/OFF] switch of the MRS-8 to ON. · You can also format an SD card after the MRS-8 has started up, as described on page 118. · Changing the SD card while the MRS-8 is operating is possible by following the procedure described on page 117. 2. 3. 4. Turn on the connected instrument and the monitor system in that order. Power-off 1. 2. Data loading for the inserted SD card starts. During this interval, the [SD CARD ACCESS] indicator lights up. Turn down the volume at the monitor system. Turn off the monitor system and the connected instrument in that order. 3. Set the [POWER ON/OFF] switch of the MRS-8 to OFF. The indication "GoodBye See You!" appears on the display and the unit is turned off. Any settings and other information are stored automatically on the SD card. After a while, the following screen appears. PRJ 000 MRS-8 SD 0 0 0 1- 1- 0 · Never turn power on or off by connecting or disconnecting the AC adapter. Otherwise data may be destroyed. · In particular, if you disconnect the AC adapter while the [SD CARD ACCESS] indicator is lit, all data may be permanently destroyed. This is called the main screen. From this screen, you can access various recording and playback functions. HINT To return to the main screen from other screens, press the [EXIT] key repeatedly. If an SD card that is not ready for use in the MRS-8 is inserted, the indication "FORMAT?" appears when you turn the MRS-8 on. If you press the [ENTER] key at this point, the SD card will be formatted. When formatting is 14 ZOOM MRS-8 Let's Record This section demonstrates the basics of recording and playback with the MRS-8. As an example, we explain how to record an electric guitar connected to the INPUT 1 connector. 1. Connect the guitar to the INPUT 1 connector and set the [INPUT 1 SELECT] switch to GUITAR/BASS (for a passive guitar) or MIC/LINE (for an active guitar). Press the [NEW PROJECT] key in the display section. Verify that the indication "PRJNOxxx (where xxx is the project number) is shown on the first line of the display. Then press the [ENTER] key. Flickers occasionally 2. 5. Press the [TRACK PARAMETER] key in the display section, and use the cursor left/ right keys to bring up the indication "INPUT" on the first line of the display. A new project is created, and the unit goes into recording standby mode. If necessary, you can edit the project name in this condition ( p. 105). 3. Verify that the [MIC] key is flashing or out. Then press the INPUT [ON/OFF] key 1 so that the key is lit. In this condition, the INPUT 1 connector is active. NOTE If "INPUT" is not shown on the first line of the display, check whether the INPUT [ON/OFF] key is lit. 6. Use the cursor up/down keys to bring up the following indication on the display. From this screen, you can adjust the input signal recording level (the signal level sent to the track). INPUT REC LVL HINT If the [MIC] key is lit, the built-in microphone is active instead of the INPUT 1 connector. In such a case, press the [MIC] key once to switch the key to flashing status. 100 Recording level setting 7. Turn the dial to adjust the recording level. 4. While playing your guitar, use the [INPUT] control 1 to adjust the input sensitivity. Make the adjustment so that the [PEAK] indicator flickers slightly when you play your instrument at its loudest volume. The current signal level can be checked using the meter ZOOM MRS-8 15 Let's Record in the lower part of the display. Adjust the recording level so that the 0 (dB) segment for IN 1 flashes slightly when the guitar is at maximum volume. 0 (dB) segment your instrument along with the rhythm pattern. Lit in green Lit in red Input 1 recording level HINT · If you do not want a rhythm pattern, select an empty rhythm pattern ( p. 18) or mute the drum/bass sound ( p. 19). · In the default condition of a project, the insert effect processes the input signal. You can bypass the effect ( p. 22) or select another effect patch ( p. 21). 8. Press the [EXIT] key repeatedly to return to the main screen. 12. When recording is complete, press the STOP [P] key. 9. Press status key 1 repeatedly until the key is lit in red. When a status key is lit in red, the respective audio track (track 1 in this example) is selected as recording destination. Lit in red The REC [O] key and PLAY [R] key go out, and recording stops. 13. To check the recorded contents, press the ZERO [U] key and then press the PLAY [R] key. 10. Operate fader 1 and the [MASTER] fader to adjust the input signal monitor level. Faders 1 ­ 4, 5/6, and 7/8 adjust the volume for the respective track. When the input signal is sent to a track, the monitor level can be adjusted. The [MASTER] fader can be used to adjust the final output level. By operating the [MASTER] fader you can adjust the volume of the entire song (stereo mix signal level). 14. To cancel the recording condition, press the status key 1 so that the key is lit in green. Lit in green 11. To start recording, press the PLAY [R] key while holding down the REC [O] key. A four-beat pre-count is heard, and recording starts. In the default condition of a project, an 8-beat rhythm pattern is played during recording and playback. Play 16 ZOOM MRS-8 Quick Tour Now let's use your MRS-8 to do some actual recording. This Quick Tour describes the five steps that cover the entire process from preparation until the completion of a song. · Step 1: Preparations Shows how to create a new project, select a guide rhythm, and perform other steps necessary for recording. · Step 2: Recording the first track Shows how to record the first track while using the insert effect on the input signal. · Step 3: Overdubbing Shows how to record further tracks while listening to a track already recorded (overdubbing). · Step 4: Mixing Shows how to adjust the level, panning, and EQ of each track, apply the send/return effect, and mix the recorded material to a pair of stereo tracks. · Step 5: Mixdown Finally the completed stereo mix is recorded on the master track to create the finished song. Step 1: Preparations 1.1 Creating a new project On the MRS-8, song data are managed in units called "projects". A project comprises recorded audio data as well as various rhythm and effect settings. By loading a project, the same condition as when the song was last saved can be recreated. To start recording with the MRS-8, you must first create a project. 1. 2. 3. Connect the instrument to record and the monitor system to the MRS-8 ( p. 12). Insert the SD card to use for recording ( p. 13). Turn power on in the order MRS-8 monitor system. When the MRS-8 starts up, the last handled project is automatically loaded. Press the [NEW PROJECT] key in the display section. When you press the [NEW PROJECT] key from the main screen, the display changes as follows. 4. PRJNo001 PRJ001 Cursor keys that be used In this condition, a new project can be created. The top right of the display shows the cursor keys that can be used on this screen. ZOOM MRS-8 17 Quick Tour HINT · When creating a new project, the lowest free project number is automatically selected. · It is also possible to create a new project from the project menu ( p. 105). Rhythm pattern number 001#117 MTNs1Vb Rhythm pattern name 1 5. Press the [ENTER] key. A new project is created, and the main screen for audio track recording/playback appears. HINT To return to the main screen from other screens, press the [EXIT] key repeatedly. The [EXIT] key always serves to return to the previous screen. PRJ 001 PRJ001 HINT · When selecting a different project or creating a new project, the project you were working on up to that point is automatically saved. · When performing the power-off procedure for the MRS-8 ( p. 14), the last project is automatically saved. · When creating a new project, you can edit the project name ( p. 105). 2. Turn the dial to select a pattern to use as guide rhythm. Up to 511 types of rhythm pattern can be used in a project. (More than 450 of these are preprogrammed.) You select a pattern by turning the dial. When you turn the dial to select another rhythm pattern while a pattern is playing, the new pattern will start after the current pattern has finished. When you select a new pattern with the cursor up/down keys, the new pattern begins playing immediately. In this example, we will select a simple rhythm pattern as guide rhythm for use during recording. If you select for example the rhythm pattern number 510, a 4/4-beat metronome sound is heard. NOTE While the MRS-8 is operating, do not remove the SD card. Otherwise data may be destroyed and malfunction may occur. If you want to remove the SD card while the MRS-8 is on, be sure to follow the correct procedure ( p. 117). 1.2 Selecting the rhythm pattern to use The MRS-8 has a built-in rhythm function that operates in sync with the recorder. This lets you use drum sounds (drum kits) and bass sounds (bass programs) to create repeated rhythm patterns of several measures. By combining various patterns, you can create the rhythm accompaniment for an entire song (rhythm song). This section explains how to select a rhythm pattern for use as guide rhythm during recording. 3. Set the [MASTER] fader to 0 (dB) and press the PLAY [R] key in the transport section. 1. From the main screen, press the [SONG/ PATTERN] key repeatedly, until the key goes out. The rhythm pattern selection screen appears. 0dB The selected rhythm pattern is played in sync with the recorder operation. The [TEMPO] key flashes according to the current tempo setting. 18 ZOOM MRS-8 Quick Tour In the default condition of a project, the sound the bass program (bass track) is muted. Therefore only the drum kit (drum track) is heard when the rhythm pattern plays. · When drum track is selected HINT During rhythm pattern play, the pads corresponding to the currently produced sound of the drum kit (or pitch of the bass program) are flashing. You can also tap the pads to play the drum sounds/bass notes. Lit 4. · When bass track is selected To change the tempo, press the [TEMPO] key in the rhythm section and then turn the dial to change the tempo value shown on the display. Out TEMPO BPM= 1200 Tempo value The signal level of the respective channel can be checked with the level meter in the lower part of the display. The tempo value can be set in 0.1 BPM steps. When the setting is complete, press the [EXIT] key to return to the previous screen. Bass track signal level Drum track signal level HINT You can also set the tempo by hitting the [TEMPO] key repeatedly. 5. To adjust the volume of the drum/bass track, use the [DRUM/BASS] key in the rhythm section to select the sound (drum or bass), and then operate the [RHYTHM] fader. The [RHYTHM] fader serves for controlling either the drum track or the bass track. When the key is lit, the drum track is selected. When the key is out, the bass track is selected. The [RHYTHM] fader then controls the respective level. In the same way, the [DRUM/BASS] key can be used to select the sound (drum or bass), and then the [RHYTHM] status key can be used to control muting on/off for the drum track/bass track. 6. To stop playback, press the STOP [P]key in the transport section. 7. To return to the main screen, press the [EXIT] key. ZOOM MRS-8 19 Quick Tour Step 2: Recording the first track In this step, we explain how to select an audio track for recording, how to record while listening to the guide rhythm of the rhythm section, and how to use the insert effect on the input signal. is selected as input source. To use two input sources simultaneously, hold down one INPUT [ON/OFF] key while pressing the other one. 2.1 Adjusting input sensitivity 1. Connect an instrument to the INPUT 1/2 connector. The MRS-8 can handle up to two input sources at a time, from INPUT 1, INPUT 2, and the built-in mic. INPUT 1 and the built-in mic are mutually exclusive. A switch selects one of these for use as input source. To use the built-in mic, press the [MIC] key in the input section so that the key is lit. The INPUT [ON/OFF] keys 1/2 and [MIC] key lighting status with various input selections is shown below. · Input source = INPUT 1 connector 2. Lit Flashing or out Out · Input source = INPUT 2 connector Out Flashing or out Lit · Input source = Built-in mic When the unit is in a mode where the built-in mic can be used, the [MIC] key in the input section flashes. If you press the key so that it is lit, the built-in mic will be active instead of INPUT 1. Depending on the insert effect settings, the built-in mic may not be available. In this case, the [MIC] key is out. [MIC] key [MIC] key lit lit [MIC] key [MIC] key flashing flashing [MIC] key [MIC] key out out Lit Built-in mic is Built-in mic is active active (INPUT 1 is (INPUT 1 is inactive) inactive) Built-in mic is Built-in mic is available available (INPUT 1 is (INPUT 1 is active) active) Built-in mic is Built-in mic is not available not available (INPUT 1 is (INPUT 1 is active) active) Flashing or out Lit Lit Lit Out · Input source = INPUT 1 connector + INPUT 2 connector · Input source = Built-in mic + INPUT 2 connector 3. Use the INPUT [ON/OFF] keys 1/2 to select the input source. The INPUT [ON/OFF] keys 1/2 control the INPUT 1 connector (or built-in mic) and INPUT 2 connector respectively. When a key is lit, the signal from that input Lit Lit Lit 20 ZOOM MRS-8 Quick Tour 4. While playing your instrument, adjust the [INPUT] control for the input(s) selected in step 2, to adjust the input sensitivity. The sensitivity of INPUT 1 and the built-in mic is adjusted with the [INPUT] 1 control. The sensitivity of INPUT 2 is adjusted with the [INPUT] 2 control. Make adjustments so that the [PEAK] indicator in the input section flickers slightly when you play your instrument at its loudest volume. Flickers occasionally another setting is currently displayed, turn the dial to select "IN". IN SRC IN 2. Press the [INSERT EFFECT] key in the effect section. 0 (dB) segment The display changes as follows. From this screen, you can select the insert effect algorithm (combination of effect modules used simultaneously) and patch (effect program). Algorithm name