Korg MS-20 Inputs

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Anaki_Muon
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Korg MS-20 Inputs

Post by Anaki_Muon » Thu Sep 07, 2006 4:48 am

I'm having some problems with running external audio through the MS-20. I'm getting some pretty awesome results when running drum loops through it, but have found that it is far too easy to encounter clipping.

I've followed the directions given by the manual, as quoted below:
Korg MS-20 Manual wrote:8) Using the External Signal Processor (E.S.P.)

To use the ESP module, follow the steps listed below:

(1) Connect the external signal source (e.g., electric guitar, microphone, electric piano, etc.) to the ESP's SIGNAL IN jack.
(2) Adjust the Signal Level so that the Peak Level indicator only flickers slightly when the external signal input reaches maximum volume.
(3) Turn the Threshold Level control clockwise while watching the TRIG OUT light, until it lights when playing at medium to high voltage levels.
(4) Connect F (inf.) V CV OUT to VCO 1+2 CV IN (or VCO 2 CV IN); connect TRIG OUT (ESP) to the TRIGGER IN jack, and the ENV OUT jack to the VCA's INITIAL GAIN jack.
(5) To adjust the Bandpass Filtering section for proper operation first set the LOW CUT FREQ to "10" and HIGH CUT FREQ to "0". Play the highest note the ESP is to pick up, and slowly turn the HIGH CUT control clockwise until the desired pitch is picked up.
Next play the lowest note and turn the LOW CUT control counter clockwise until it is registered on the MS-20. This completes the Bandpass Filter adjustments.
(6) Adjust the CV ADJUST control until the MS-20's pitch matches that of the input instrument.
(7) If desired, the original sound of the instrument may be mixed with the synthesized sounds by the ESP's PRE-AMP OUT to the EXTERNAL SIGNAL IN jack.

Once the above steps have been completed, the MS-20 may be programmed for different sounds in the same manner as when the keyboard is utilized.
When I turn up the Signal Level enough to hear any audio coming out of my speakers it seems to just reach the point where it will begin to clip. I realize the audio input must be ridiculously sensitive, but this is a little annoying. I'm thinking maybe I gotta spend more time tweaking things (perhaps turning up or turning down some other knobs would help?) or maybe I should run my drum loop throuhg a compressor before running it through the MS-20.

Can anyone give me any advice specifically concerning the use of the external audio input on the MS-20? Any suggestions, methods, hints or tips would be greatly appreciated!
Korg MS20 & Wavestation A/D, Roland Juno 60 & Juno 106 & MKS50 & D110 & MC202, Ensoniq EPS, Yamaha FB01, SP07b, Casio CZ5000 & SK1, Alesis Micron, Cakewalk Z3ta+, Propellerhead Reason, Garriton Personal Orchestra

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Tonebone
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Post by Tonebone » Wed Oct 11, 2006 1:05 am

If you only want to filter the drumloops, you just need the "External signal in" jack at the top of the ms20. If you want to use the esp, you have to connect the ESP's PRE-AMP OUT to the EXTERNAL SIGNAL IN jack like described.
Then you can play whith the sensitivity and filter/env-knobs.
9RY30, 3MS20, SQ-01, CS30, 101 G R B, 7JX-3P/PG, 4KMS-30, 19"CX3/2CLS222, SP-12...

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