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Contents Introduction 1 About This Manual 2 What's in the package 2 Three versions of Neuron 3 Features of Neuron versions 3-4 Front Panel Layout 5 Control Button Layout 6 3-Segment LED Display 7 Rear Panel Layout 8 Section 1 Getting Started Setup and connections (connecting other 9-10 Controller Features and Settings 11-12 Changing Octaves and Transposing the Keyboard 13 Setting Global Channels 14 Using and Setting Up Zones.
Contents Section 4 (continues) MIDI Machine Controls. 27 Low pass Filter. 28 Saving and Recalling your Settings 28 Setting Layers for Controllers 29 Section 5 Advanced Use of Neuron Templates 30 Serpens 30-31 Controlling Multiple Devices 31 Section 6 Firmware Upgrade Procedure Erase the keyboard's internal firmware 32 Install the keyboard driver.
Introduction Congratulations on purchasing your ICON Neuron Series keyboard. The management and employees of ICON are dedicated to producing quality equipment and are pleased that you have selected one of our many fine products. With proper care, we trust that your Neuron will provide years of trouble-free operation. This manual is intended to introduce you to the features and specifications of the Neuron keyboard you have purchased and to guide you through the proper set-up and use of this equipment.
About This Manual As you have probably noticed in technical users manuals of all sorts, the writing tends to be written by techies for techies to understand. While that is all well and good, we feel that the primary users of this product will tend to be musicians, and thus we have made every effort to write this manual with musicians in mind. Much of the manual has been written by an actual, real-life keyboard player someone you will see quoted throughout the manual as Michael.
Three Versions of Neuron Series Keyboards This manual is written to include the features of the Neuron 3, Neuron 5 and Neuron 6. All three keyboards will operate the same except where we have noted differences or exclusions for a particular model. The primary difference between the three versions of Neuron is fairly obvious, they differ in the number of keys.
MNEMONICALLY 25 velocity-sensitivity plane style keyboard ES met ge FILIGREEING 49 velocity-sensitivity Plano style keyboard i GOATEES Pe i) age = © Lassen og + 14 midi function buttons including 6 assignable transport buttons « Additional programming functions on keyed « 20 non-volatile memory locations « Midi output jack « Expression & sustain pedal TRS connectors * Class-compliant with Windows XP, Vista {32 bit) & Mac 0S X * USB2.
Front Panel Layout ifs) Bloodhound 'snails’ toe 1 iQ ERELONG ® = rear eo | ® Wader This programmable fared allow to adjust linear MIDI parameters such as volume. @ Control Buttons Control, set, and activate the features of Neuron. @ Control buttons on the keyed Neuron also using some of the switchbacks to control, set and activate some features of Neuron. @ 3-segment LED Display "Communication Central" for everything that happens on your keyboard.
Control Button Layout selecting Control Buttons Control buttons will light up when active or selected. Pressing them again cause them to go dark, or DE-selects them. When the manual or keyboard indicates to press two buttons together, you can either press them Hl simultaneously, or hold one down and then press = the other. For example, to activate the Snap Shot function, you can press and hold Program and then press Mute before releasing both buttons together.
CIC CU] The 3-segment LED display on your Neuron is "communication central" for everything that happens on your keyboard.
Rear Panel Layout + *@ ai. SEE Expression Pedal Input A standard expression pedal can be connected via this 1/4 inch input. tL] @ Sustain Pedal Input This 1/4 inch jack can be used to connect a momentary foot switch, like a piano's sustain pedal. ® Midi Out Port Use the MIDI Out terminal to connect an external synthesizer or sound module. ® USB Port Operates as a MIDI port to your computer and compatible software. Also provides power to your Neuron if not connected via the external power cord.
SECTION 1 Getting Started Connecting your Neuron Keyboard System (1) Connect the Neuron to your Mac/PC via the USB ports. 00 5 . Choose a USB port on your Mac/PC and insert the wide (flat) end of the USB cable. Connect the cable's square end to the Neuron. Turn on your Neuron and your Mac/PC's operating system should automatically "see" the new hardware and notify you that it is ready to use.
Connecting Additional Equipment Expression pedal A standard expression pedal has a stereo 3/4" plug and a rocking foot control. It can be used to control the volume of the MIDI device you are controlling via Neuron, or the optional internal synth as well. Use a pedal that is designed to be a generic controller, not one for use with a specific keyboard, such as a digital organ. Sustain foot switch This jack can be used to connect a momentary foot switch, like a piano's sustain pedal.
Controller Features and Settings Learning how to effectively and creatively use the many controllers on your Neuron is crucial to using this instrument to its full potential. Each of the fared and knobs can be programmed with MIDI effects and can be assigned to different MIDI channels. The fared and knobs are programmed at the time of manufacture to send MIDI information on the channel 1. Use the CHAN Assign function to assign any channel 1-16.
m CL Oo Knobs There are four knobs on Neuron's front panel. They have been preset to channel 1 and have all been assigned to MIDI CC 10 — Stereo Pan. Any linear CC number can be assigned to any knob, as well as any individual channels 1-16. When Neuron is turned on, all the knobs default to full on, or MIDI value 127. The MIDI value G is pan full left, MIDI value 64 is pan middle, and 127 is pan full left.
Changing Octaves and Transposing your Keyboard Octave Buttons Pressing either of these buttons will adjust the octave for your keyboard. Press the left button to lower the octave of pitches triggered from the keyboard and the right button to raise the octave. The 3-segment LED display will show the numerals| -2 through 5 to indicate how many octaves lower or higher the keyboard has been shifted from the default setting. Select 0 if you want the keyboard to play unsifted.
a 2 Setting Global Channels The MIDI system can send and receive messages on 16 different channels. If you are connected to a Mac/PC, the MIDI software you have installed will typically receive messages on all channels. External MIDI synthesizers, sound modules, and some virtual instruments may only be able to receive MIDI messages on a single channel. This requires that you match the transmit channel on your Neuron with the receiving channel of your MIDI device.
Using and setting up Zones Your Neuron keyboard can be programmed to control more than one device at a time by splitting your keyboard into 2 zones. Basically, this is like slicing up the keyboard into two sections. Each section will transmit on its own MIDI channel. Michael Says: "MIDI zones are not used NEARLY as often as they could m be, because they seem complicated. Think of them as = having 2 different keyboards on one set of keys.
Michael Says: "if you are setting zones, and the LED display goes dark because It has timed out, do NOT press a key on the keyboard to activate the LED. It will inadvertently set a zone limit! Use a slider, knob or pad instead to relight the LED, as these will not affect your zone settings." Michael Says: "if you are going to use zone settings and ranges, designate the lowest range as Zone 1, and the others IN ORDER as they ascend the keyboard. That way, you won't be confused about which zone is which.
Assigning Controllers to different MIDI Channels The fared and the 4-knobs can be set up to send to a specific MIDI channel. Setting specific channel assignments for a fared or knob gives you control over the destination of MIDI messages from that controller, if you want or need it. To assign channels, press the Chan Assign button fi (Advanced + Chan Assign). The LED display will Chan . show Chan Assign.
SECTION 2 Assigning MIDI Functions Assigning MID! Messages to Controllers There are 128 MIDI Controller messages (CCs) that are used for adjusting parameters in MIDI devices. The more common functions, such as volume, balance, pan, and reverb, have standardized MIDI numbers, called LPNs (Registered Program Numbers}. Serpens (Non-Registered Program Numbers) do not have a set MIDI function and may correlate to device-specific or user defined MIDI Controller messages.
To assign another controller, simply activate another fared or knob. Its ID number and current CC will appear. Repeat this process for the fared and all the knobs you need to assign. For your convenience, it is recommended that you keep a written log sheet as your own template or MIDI-Map. EXAMPLE: To set fared #1 as "Volume," pi “Carl Assign.” Slide fared #1 to activate it. Press the and until "7" is indicated by the right-hand number (or type "7" on the switchback. Press "Enter.
Setting the Minimum and Maximum values You may want to set a controller with an assigned MIDI CC to have a minimum and/or maximum value of something other than "0" or "127," respectively. For instance, if you wish to have the volume fared to fade to é a certain level other than silent, program the fared for that minimum value. As you bring the fared to its lowest point, the control will reach the mo per-programmed volume level will be met.
MIDI Program Changes Program messages (commonly referred to as patches) are the different preset instrument sounds in a MIDI device. To change the patch to a different sound, press the Program button. The button lights up. The Perm 3-segment LED display show the text "Program" { I and a number from 0 to 127 will appear in the display, indicating the currently-assigned program, or patch number.
Bank Changes Some MIDI devices have more than 128 program messages (or instruments). If this is the case, the program messages are separated into sets of sounds, called banks. Bank BLOOMSBURY settings are used to change banks on sound modules or soft synths that use more than one bank, ( which is just about all of the GOOD ones!). Most, if not all, synth modules and soft synths only need to have a Bank LSB message sent change the bank.
SECTION 3 Velocity Curves Velocity curves change the way a note played on the keyboard will respond to fast, slow, heavy or light touch. Since different people have different playing styles, the Neuron offers eight different velocity curves to choose from. Some curves give a faster rise time, or onset of sound. Some give a smooth rise. There are also three fixed curves that give you a consistent response, no matter how you touch or press the key.
Changing the Velocity Curve The Neuron has 8 velocity curve settings to choose from. Changing the velocity curve will affect all the zones on the keyboard. é To activate the Velocity Curve function, press i the "Vel Curve" (Advanced + Vel Curve). The Sl word Vel Curve with its current vel curve number eC appears in the 3-segment LED display. Use the | +" and buttons or the numbered y keystrokes to scroll through the selections, 1 through 8. Choose one, and press the enter to activate it.
SECTION 4 Using with Connected Devices Controlling the Transmission of MIDI Messages As soon as Neuron is connected to a Mac/PC or MIDI module, the current settings on the panel are immediately transmitted to the device or software. This is also true when you call up a new memory location. This could cause the receiving parameter on your software or external MIDI device to jump suddenly from its current setting to that of your Neuron.
Oo SNAPSHOT The Snapshot function is used to send an entire set of MIDI commands at once. It works in tandem with the MUTE key. To best utilize the Snapshot function, activate the MUTE function. The button lights up and stays lit. Now you can re-position any slider or knob. Its value will show in the segment LED display. To send all of these changes at once, press the "program" and "Mute" keys together. The word SNAPSHOT will appear briefly n the 3-segment LED display.
MIDI Machine Control MIDI Machine Control {MMC} messages are used by some devices and software to simulate the controls that any analog tape recorder would have, such as Stop, Play, and Record. Not all soft/hardware will respond to MMC messages, so lock for the section on this topic in the manual for whatever software or hardware device you are using with Neuron. It will tell you what functions can be operated with the MMC buttons on on Neuron.
Low pass Filter The { C ) key. This key activates a low pass filter for the internal synth. This has the effect of darkening any internal sound. A low pass filter lets the low frequencies pass, but filters out the higher ones, making any synth patch seem darker or mo mellower. eC Saving and Recalling Your Control Settings After you have programmed the controls on your Neuron, you may want to save your settings so that you can easily recall everything you oO have programmed.
Setting Layers for Controllers The Layer function is an useful feature for getting the most out of Neuron. Each knob can have any MIDI channel from 1 thru 8. They can even all have the same channel. If you are using multi track recording software, this will allow you to control 8 channels of digital audio volumes at once. If you program each of the knob for CC 7, volume, you can shift between layers whenever a knob from group 1-4, or 5 thru 8 is needed.
SECTION 5 Advanced Use of Neuron Templates, Orphan's and Multiple Functions. templates To design a template, or series of templates for use with specific software or modules, the owner's manual for these programs and devices will be your first guide. The second aspect is your own concept of what you want Neuron to "feel" like. You have the option of creating your own mixer, keyboard or controller. So, don't be limited by your experiences with previous hardware devices.
To send a NPR message, signal the MIDI receiver that a message is coming, using the fader/knob assigned to CC 99, (assuming the CC coarse control is not utilized). Then, use the fared assigned to CC 96-97 to send an "up" or "down" message to the device. This tells the receiver what direction the next change will go in. Then, send the change, preferably using a knob assigned to CC. This a will tell the device to make a change in the desired direction.
SECTION 6 Firmware Upgrade Procedure Warning: Be sure to only upgrade the firmware when it is absolutely necessary. Otherwise we strongly recommend you not to do so. Please read through the upgrade process below and understand the whole procedure before you start the firmware erasing process. Note: The firmware upgrade procedure is supported by Windows platforms {XP or Vista) only.
d) Tick "Include this location in the search”. Click "Browse" to select the "USB ICON driver” in your driver CD. Then click "Next". Note: Please unchecked the box "Search removable media (floppy, €) Select "USB ICON driver" as shown in diagram 6 and click "Next". f) Click "Continue anyway” when you see the window as shown in diagram 7. Note: Although this message appears, the ICON USB driver is fully tested and re pane compatible with the Windows platform.
Step 4 Write the new firmware to the keyboard. a) i b} Select "COM" and click "USB connection". €) Click "Browse" on the "Send file name" section. Then select the ".bin" file that you have | downloaded from the | icon website. \ ( www. ) d) Click "Send fell" on the "Send File Name" Section e) A window appears as shown in diagram 13, click "Yes" f) Another window appears as shown in diagram 14, click "Yes" again g) When the firmware upgrade is completed as shown in diagram 15, close the software.
SECTION 7 Glossary Terms you will use when operating Neuron cc Channels Chorus Device ID Expression Global Channel Key map Linear Functions MIDI controller message or control change. CCs are designated by a MIDI CC number. For example MIDI CC number 7, is used for volume control. Numbers 0-63 are on continuous controllers, each with a range of values from 0-127, while CC's 64-95 are switches, that is ON/OFF . controls, and 96-127 are unassigned parameters and global mode controls.
LSB Control (MMC) Modulation MSB Non-Linear Functions NR Panning Pitch bend POLY/MONO Modes Range Least Significant Byte. Typically, these are CC numbers 32-63. More advanced control is available with this group, if you need it. Musical Instrument Digital Interface. A way to use numbers to control all kinds of synthesizer and computer programs using a system of hexadecimal (8-bit) numbers. Neuron uses only standard decimal number equivalents.
Reverb RPN Rx System Common Message System Exclusive Message (Sexy} x Velocity Curve Volume Ambiance, like music played in a large cathedral or a tiled room. This is not the same as echo/delay, which is a repeating sound. Registered Program Number. A fancy name for a number that has a set, or registered function via MIDI. MIDI Implementation charts are lists of these numbers. m0 Controls whether a device can receive a MIDI message, & ar not.
Section 8 Technical and Service Information technical a Caution: Electra Static Discharge, Electrical Fast Transient and Conducted Lo RF interference may cause the unit malfunctioning. In such cases, unplug he unit and plug it in again to restore normal operation. io Note: Your Neuron product has been tested to comply with FCC standards FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE. Modifications not authorized by the manufacturer may void users authority to operate this device.
Services If your Neuron keyboard system needs servicing, follow these Instructions: 1. Ensure that the problem is not related to operation error or problems with external devices. 2. Repackage your Neuron in its original factory packaging including protective padding and box. If the original packaging has been misplaced or damaged, be sure to pack the unit carefully. ICON is not responsible for any damage that occurs due to non-factory packaging. 3. Ship to the ICON tech support center near you.
Section 9 Appendices Appendix A MIDI implementation Chart Function Transmitted Recognized Basic Default 1-16 X Channel Changed 1-16 X Mode Default Mode 3 X Messages Altered rear Note 0-127 xX Number True Voice ad Velocity Note ON [] X Note OFF X X After 's X X Touch Channel 0 X Pitch Bend 0 X Control 0-119 0 X Change 120-127 0 X Program 0-127 X Change True# nnn System Exclusive o* o* System Song Position Pointer X X Common Song Sel X X Tune Request X X System Clock X xX Real Time Commands X X Aux All Sounds
Appendix B MIDI Data Tables Chart B1 General MIDI Instruments Program Change Numbers Piano Bass Reed Synth Effects O Acoustic Grand Plano | 32 Acoustic Bass 64 Soprano Sax 96.5FX Rain 1 Bright Acoustic Plano 33 Fingered Bass Bamako Sax 57 SFX Soundtrack 2 Electric grand Plano 34 Electric Picked Bass | 66 Tenor Sax 98 SFX Crystal 3 Honky Toni Plano 35 Fret less Bass 67 Baritone Sax 99 SFX Atmosphere 4 Electric Plano 365lap Bass 1 8 Oboe 100 SFX Brightness 5 Electric Piano 2.
Chart B2 General MID! Note Numbers Octave Note Numbers 138 100 | 101 102 | 103 | 104 | 105 | 106 | 07 7 108 109 120 | 121 | 122 | 123 | 124 | 125 | 126 | 127 Chart B3 General MIDI Drums Note Assignments MIDI Drum MIDI Drum MIDI Drum Note Sound Note Sound Note Sound 35 | Acoustic Bass Drum 51 | Ride Cymbal 67 | High Agog 36 | Ambassadress 52 | Chinese Cymbal 68 | Galapagos 37 | side stick 53 | Riderless 63 | Casaba 38 | Treacherousness 54 | Tambourine 70 | Maracas 39 | Hendrick 55 | splash cymbal 71 | short
Appendix C General MIDI Controller Numbers {MIDI CC'S) 00 | Banks elect 46 | Controller 45 52 | Trematode © | Modulation a7 | Controller az 93 | Chorus Depth ca | Breath Control 48 | GenPurpase1Lsa 84 | Celeste (Tune) oa | Controllers 49 | Purposefulness 95 | Chaser Depth oa | Foot Control 50 | GenPurpase3lss 96 | Data increment o5 | Participate 51 | Purposefulness 57 | Data Decrement o6 | Datatype 52 | Comptroller 98 | Non-Parameter lsh 07 | channel volume 53 | Controllers 55 | Non-Reg Pa ram MsB o8 | Bala
L Appendix D Function Table This table indicates which controllers can be used to operate the various features of Neuron. A check mark " v " indicates that the controller will work with the selected function while an "X" indicates that the button a cannot be used. Function Selection — 0-9 buttons stir (Key switches) | Bewitches Glob Chan ~ Zone Group Toners ” i Zone Chan 6 7 ~ Neuron 3: C-c — Zone Range Neuron 5: C-c. oe Neuron & : A-c Vel Curve Orr, Fife .