Operation Manual © ZOOM Corporation Reproduction of this manual, in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited.
USAGE AND 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 ignore this symbol and Caution handle the device incorrectly, serious injury or death could result. This symbol indicates explanations about dangerous matters.
Contents USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS....... 2 4-2 Adjusting level/panning/EQ ................. 26 4-3 Applying the send/return effect ............ 28 Introduction ................................................ 5 Step 5: Mixdown ................................. 30 Getting to Know the PS-04........................ 6 5-1 Applying the mastering effect ............... 5-2 Mixdown (bounce) preparations ........... 5-3 Carrying out mixdown (bounce) ........... 5-4 Playing the bounced tracks ..............
Contents Assigning input signals to tracks ......... 53 Selecting the input source ........................... 53 Selecting the recording track(s) .................. 55 Mixing the playback sound from tracks ................................................... 56 Making adjustments for each track signal (track parameters) ..................... 56 Linking tracks (stereo link) ................... 58 Editing a send/return effect patch ............... 90 Storing a send/return effect patch ...............
Introduction Thank you for selecting the ZOOM PS-04 Palmtop Studio (simply called the "PS-04" in this manual). The PS-04 is a fascinating product with the following features. • Four great functions in one compact unit Weighing in at a mere 160 grams, the PS-04 combines a SmartMedia recorder, mixer, multi-effect device, and drum/bass machine in a single pocket-size body. Whenever and wherever inspiration strikes, the PS-04 is ready to help you create and record your very own sound.
Getting to Know the PS-04 PS-04 configuration The PS-04 can be thought of as having four main sections, namely recorder, effects, mixer, and rhythm. These are explained below. ■ Recorder section The recorder in the PS-04 has 4 separate audio tracks (a track is a separate portion for recording audio data). Up to 2 tracks can be recorded simultaneously, and up to 4 tracks can be played back simultaneously. The tracks are numbered 1 – 4, and each of these tracks has 10 virtual tracks (so-called V-takes).
Operation modes of the PS-04 [INPUT] jack [LINE IN] jack Input Built-in mic Recorder Track 1 Insert effect ■ Mixer section Using the mixer functions built into the PS-04, you can adjust the level, panning, EQ, and other parameters for audio tracks 1- 4 and the drum / bass track to produce the final stereo mix.
Names and Functions of Parts Top view Status keys 1 - 4 Faders 1 - 4 Display [SYSTEM] key [BOUNCE] key [RHYTHM] key [AUTO PUNCH IN/ OUT] key [EFFECT] key [TRACK PARAMETER] key [EDIT/ UTILITY] key [TUNER/BYPASS] key [EXIT] key [INSERT/DELETE (COPY)] key [ENTER] key Dial Cursor [E]/[R]/[Q]/[W] keys Built-in mic [MIC] key [U] key, [R/P]]key, [REC] key, [MARK] key 8 ZOOM PS-04
Front view Front view Card slot Rear view [INPUT LEVEL] knob [OUTPUT] jack [INPUT] jack [PHONES] jack [LINE IN] jack Side view [ON/OFF switch] ZOOM PS-04 [DC9V] jack 9
Getting Connected Synthesizer Bass Monitoring system Connect a guitar, bass guitar or other instrument to the [INPUT] jack. To monitor with headphones, connect them to the [PHONES] jack. This jack carries the same signal as the [OUTPUT] jack. Guitar PS-04 rear panel Connect a stereo device with line level output such as a synthesizer or CD player to the [LINE IN] jack.
Operating the Unit on Batteries The PS-04 can be operated on battery power. Purchase the Bottom of PS-04 correct batteries and insert them as described below. Battery 1. 2. 3. Turn the PS-04 over and open the cover of the battery compartment. Insert four IEC R6 (size AA) batteries into the compartment. (Use alkaline batteries.) Close the cover of the battery compartment.
Listening to the Demo Song This section shows how to play the demo song stored on the supplied SmartMedia card. NOTE The demo song is write-protected. During playback you can change the level, panning, and other parameters, but you cannot store the changed settings. 1. Connect the monitoring system and the PS-04, and insert the supplied SmartMedia card into the PS-04. Before switching the power on, turn the volume control of the monitoring system down. 2.
Let's Record This section shows how to record a guitar connected to the [INPUT] jack. 1. Connect the guitar to the [INPUT] jack. 2. Press the [SYSTEM] key and then the [ENTER] key. The indication "SELECT" appears on the display. 3. Use the cursor left/right keys to bring up the indication "NEW" on the display, and press the [ENTER] key twice. The following indication appears on the display, and the PS-04 is ready for recording. OOOOOO000 4. Press the [TRACK PARAMETER] key.
Let's Record 6. To adjust the track recording level, operate fader 2. While this screen is shown, you can use fader 2 to adjust the recording level for the signal from the [INPUT] jack. When the adjustment is complete, press the [EXIT] key. RECLVL100 HINT If the topmost segment (rectangular block) of the level meter comes on when you play your guitar loud, reduce the recording level setting. 7. Use the status keys to select the recording destination track.
Quick Guide This section explains some of the basic operation steps of the PS-04. You will learn how to make preparations for recording, how to record tracks, do overdubs, use the mixer, and create the final stereo mix. The explanation is divided into five major steps. ● Step 1: Preparations before recording Establish connections, create a project, and make other preparations for recording. ● Step 2: Recording the first track Record the first track while using the insert effect on the input signal.
Quick Guide 4. Verify that "PROJECT" is shown on the display, and then press the [ENTER] key. 5. Use the cursor left/right keys to bring up the indication "NEW", and press the [ENTER] key. You can now select the audio data quality level (recording grade). Cursor left/right keys 6. GRADE HF Use the dial to select one of the following two grade settings. •HF (Hi-Fi) Best sound quality setting (default) •LG (Long) Longer recording time setting. (Recording time is doubled compared to HF.) 7.
Step 1: Preparations before recording 1-2 Selecting a rhythm pattern to use The PS-04 incorporates a rhythm function that always operates in sync with the recorder. This function can automatically repeat patterns that are several measures in length and contain drum sounds (drum kit) and bass sounds (bass program). It is also possible to use a combination of patterns to form a longer rhythm accompaniment (song). In this example, we will choose a simple pattern to use as guide rhythm during recording. 1.
Quick Guide 4. Operate faders 1 and 2 to adjust the playback volume of the pattern. In RHYTHM mode, fader 1 controls the drum volume and fader 2 the bass volume. To monitor only the drum track of the pattern, slide fader 2 fully down. Fader 1 5. Fader 2 To change the tempo, operate faders 3 and 4. The current tempo value (BPM) appears on the display. Fader 3 changes the setting in units of 10 BPM, and fader 4 in units of 0.1 BPM.
Step 2: Recording the first track Step 2: Recording the first track Specify the input source and the track on which to record, and start the recording process. 2-1 Selecting the input source The PS-04 lets you select the [INPUT] jack, [LINE IN] jack, or built-in mic as input source for recording on the audio tracks. First select the source and then adjust the recording level. 1. From the AUDIO mode top screen, press the [TRACK PARAMETER] key. The track parameter screen appears.
Quick Guide When built-in mic (status key 1) is selected When [INPUT] jack (status key 2) is selected MIC INPUT When [LINE IN] jack (status key 3 or 4) is selected LINE HINT • When the built-in mic is selected as recording source, the [MIC] key lights up. You can also select the built-in mic by pressing the [MIC] key from the AUDIO mode top screen. (In this case, there is no need to call up the above track parameter screen.) • If desired, you can also combine multiple input sources (→ p. 53).
Step 2: Recording the first track When signal distortion occurs within the PS-04, the top segment of the level meter stays on for a while. Reduce the fader setting in such a case. 5. RECLVL100 When the setting is complete, press the [EXIT] key. The AUDIO mode top screen returns. 2-2 Applying the insert effect The insert effect is applied to a specific point in the signal path. It consists of a number of single effects connected in series, such as compressor, amp simulator, chorus, etc.
Quick Guide Shortly after selecting an algorithm, the name of the patch (effect program) active in that algorithm will be shown. Patch name VO-STD 3. 0 Turn the dial to select the patch. For information on the various patches that are available, see the list in the last section (→ p.116) of this documentation. HINT • You can also edit a patch to change its sound or intensity (→ p. 87). • The recording level may change, depending on the selected patch.
Step 2: Recording the first track 3. To start recording, first press the [U] key to return the recorder to the beginning, and then press the [R/P] key while holding down the [REC] key. The [REC] key and [R/P] key light up. A precount of 4 clicks (1 measure) is heard. When the precount is finished, recording starts. Play and record your instrument while listening to the guide rhythm. Move to start of recorder HINT • The number of precount beats can be adjusted as desired (→ p. 44).
Quick Guide Step 3: Overdubbing While listening to track 1 recorded in step 2, now play and record another instrument on track 2. Recording additional parts in this way is called "overdubbing". 3-1 Adjusting input sensitivity and setting the insert effect As in step 2, select the input source and make the required insert effect settings. 1. From the AUDIO mode top screen, press the [TRACK PARAMETER] key and select the input source.
Step 3: Overdubbing 5. To check the recorded content, press the [U] key to return the recorder to the start, and then press the [R/P] key. The recorded content of tracks 1 and 2 is played back, together with the guide rhythm. Adjust faders 1 and 2 as necessary to control the level balance. HINT To redo the recording, repeat steps 3 – 5. It is also possible to move to a point within the recording and rerecord from there (→ p. 37).
Quick Guide Step 4: Mixing When recording of tracks 1 – 4 is finished, create the final stereo mix by adjusting the level, EQ (equalizer), panning (stereo left/right position), send/return effect intensity and other track parameters. 4-1 Muting the input signal/rhythm sound Mute the input signal and guide rhythm so that no unwanted content will be included in the final recording. 1. To mute the guide rhythm, press the [RHYTHM] key to switch to RHYTHM mode and then slide faders 1 and 2 fully down.
Step 4: Mixing Currently selected track TRACK1 3. Use the cursor up/down keys to select the track parameter. The respective track parameter is shown on the display. The available track parameters and their setting range are shown in the table below. Parameter Display indication Setting range Description HI EQ ON/OFF EQ HI ON / OFF Switches Hi EQ on and off. HI EQ GAIN HI G -12 – 12 Adjusts the Hi EQ boost/cut amount in the range from -12 dB to +12 dB.
Quick Guide 4. Turn the dial to adjust the setting value. 4-3 Applying the send/return effect The send/return effect is an effect that works on all tracks of the integrated mixer. Either reverb, delay, or chorus can be selected for this effect. The illustration below shows the signal flow for the send/return effect.
Step 4: Mixing NOTE In the default condition, the send level for each track is set to zero. Therefore simply selecting a patch does not enable the send/return effect. 4. From the AUDIO mode top screen, press the [TRACK PARAMETER] key and then use the cursor left/right keys or the status keys to select the track. 5. Use the cursor up/down keys to bring up the indication "SEND_Lxxx" (where xxx is the setting value) on the display. Send level setting SEND_L 0 6.
Quick Guide Step 5: Mixdown Normally, mixdown refers to the procedure of sending a completed stereo mix to an external master recorder or similar. Here, we will use an empty pair of V-takes in the PS-04 instead of the external recorder. 5-1 Applying the mastering effect The MASTERING algorithm of the insert effect can be used to increase the sound pressure of the stereo mix or emphasize a certain frequency range. The following shows how to process the stereo mix with the MASTERING algorithm patches.
Step 5: Mixdown 5-2 Mixdown (bounce) preparations The procedure of recording the signal mixed in the PS-04 (the signal as it appears at the [OUTPUT] jack) onto one or two audio tracks is called "bounce". The following steps show how to change the internal setting so that the mixed signal of audio tracks 1 – 4 can be bounced onto an unused pair of V-takes. 1 2 3 4 V-takes 5 6 7 8 9 10 Tracks 1 2 3 4 Bounce 1. From the AUDIO mode top screen, press the [EDIT/UTILITY] key.
Quick Guide TAKE CR In the default condition, the setting is "CR" (Current) which means that the currently selected V-take is the bounce target. When bounce is carried out in this condition, the content of the bounce source V-take will be erased. You must therefore specify a separate V-take as bounce target. 5. Turn the dial to select the number of the V-take to be used as bounce target. When you select a number, bounce will be carried out onto that V-take of the selected track.
Step 5: Mixdown OOOOOO000 BOUNCE indication 4. To carry out mixdown, press the [R/P] key at the start of the recorder while holding down the [REC] key. When signal distortion occurs during bounce recording, press the [TUNER/BYPASS] key to bypass the insert effect and check whether this removes the distortion. ● No distortion when insert effect is bypassed Lower the patch level parameter for the insert effect (→ p. 87).
Quick Guide 3. Use the cursor up/down keys to bring up the following screen. This screen lets you select the V-take for the track. Track number V-take number TR 1 - 1 4. Turn the dial to select the number of the V-take that was selected as bounce target (V-take 10 in the above example). 5. Use the same procedure to select the V-take for the other track. 6. Set the track parameters as follows, so that the sound of the bounce target V-takes can be monitored without coloration.
Step 5: Mixdown 9. Press the [U] key to return the recorder to the start, and press the [R/P] key. The bounced content is played back. To stop playback, press the [R/P] key once more. 10. When you are satisfied with the results, return to the PS-04 to the condition before the bounce operation.
Reference [Recorder] This section explains the functions for audio recording and playback. AUDIO mode screens V-takes Immediately after turning the PS-04 on, the AUDIO mode is automatically selected and the counter showing the current position appears. This screen is called the AUDIO mode top screen. It also appears when you exit the EFFECT, RHYTHM, or SYSTEM modes and return to AUDIO mode.
Moving to a desired location in the song (Locate/Marker function) TRACK2 3. EQ HI 0FF Repeatedly press the cursor [W] key to bring up the indication “TR x-y” on the display (where x is the track number and y the V-take number). While this screen is shown, you can change the V-take for the currently selected track.
Reference [Recorder] ■ Setting a mark in a song By setting a mark anywhere in a project, you can easily return to that point later. Up to 100 markers can be set per project. 1. From the AUDIO mode top screen, move to the point where you want to set a mark. At this screen, you can specify a mark to locate. When the displayed marker number and the current position match, the indication “MARK” is shown to the left of the mark number.
Playing back the same passage repeatedly (A-B Repeat function) start point in measures/beats or using a mark. Delete mark Mark 00 number 01 02 03 04 02 03 OOO115120 Song Mark 00 number 01 4. Song NOTE • Once a mark has been deleted, it cannot be restored. • The mark at the beginning of a song (mark number 00) cannot be deleted. Playing back the same passage repeatedly (A-B Repeat function) A-B Repeat is a function that repeatedly plays back a specified passage within a project.
Reference [Recorder] 7. To stop repeat playback, press the [R/P] key once more. If necessary, adjust the input sensitivity and recording level for the instrument again. Also after the recorder was stopped, you can play the specified passage again for as long as the A-B repeat function is not canceled. 8. To cancel the A-B repeat function, perform steps 1 and 2 once more and set A-B repeat to OFF. OOOO15120 2.
Re-recording only a specified part (Punch-in/out function) ■ Using auto punch-in/out To actually perform auto punch-in/ out, hold down the [REC] key and press the [R/P] key. This is a function that lets you specify beforehand the region to be re-recorded, for automatic punchin/out. ● If [R/P] key only was pressed (rehearsal) 1. From the AUDIO mode top screen, repeatedly press the status key of the track on which you want to perform punch-in/out, until the “REC” indication is visible.
Reference [Recorder] 9. If you are satisfied with the result, press the status key for that track to turn off the “REC” indication. Combining multiple tracks on another track (Bounce function) “Bounce” is a function that mixes the contents of audio track 1 – 4 and the drum/bass track, and records them on one or two tracks. (This is sometimes also called “ping-pong recording”.
Combining multiple tracks on another track (Bounce function) ■ Selecting the bounce target V-take In the default condition of the PS-04, the result of the bounce operation will be recorded on the V-take that is currently selected for the recording track(s). To play back a track while bouncing onto another V-take of that track, you can use the following procedure to change the recording destination Vtake. 1.
Reference [Recorder] 4. Press the [BOUNCE] key. The bounce function is enabled, and the indication “BOUNCE” appears on the center right side of the display. 5. Play tracks 1 – 4 and adjust the level balance between the tracks. The settings for level balance, panning, and send/ return effect intensity all affect how the track is recorded on the bounce target. During recording, watch the level meter to make sure that there is no signal clipping. 6.
Checking the grade setting of a project 5. To change the volume of the precount, use the cursor left/right keys. COUNT The following indication appears on the display. VOLUME 10 6. Turn the dial to adjust the precount volume. • HI-FI Recording grade set to Hi-Fi • LONG Recording grade set to Long 4. When the check is finished, press the [EXIT] key two times to return to the AUDIO mode top screen. The setting range is 0 – 15. 7.
Reference [Track Editing] This section explains how to edit audio data contained on tracks 1 – 4. There are two major types of editing functions: specifying a range for editing, and editing an entire V-take. Editing a range of data The procedure for specifying a range of a V-take and then performing an action such as copying or moving is explained below. ■ Basic steps for range editing • Trim Retain only a specified range of audio data and erase the rest. 4.
Editing a range of data sections for the respective commands. 7. OOOOOO000 Press the [EXIT] key repeatedly to return to the AUDIO mode top screen. NOTE After performing an edit function and rewriting the audio data on a track, the original data cannot be restored. Use these functions with care, to prevent inadvertently losing data. ■ Copying a specified range of data You can copy the audio data of a specified range to a specified position on a specified track/V-take.
Reference [Track Editing] 8. To carry out the copy operation, press the [ENTER] key once more. When the copy process is finished, the track edit menu appears again. By pressing the [EXIT] key instead of the [ENTER] key, you can cancel the operation and return to the previous screen. 4. Specify the move end point using the same procedure as in step 2. 5. Press the [ENTER] key. The display indication changes to “DST x-y” (where x is the track number and y the V-take number).
Editing a range of data ■ Erasing a specified range of data You can erase the audio data of a specified range and return the range to the mute (non-recorded) condition. Erase 1. Refer to “Basic steps for range editing” to select the track/V-take from which you want to erase data, and press the [ENTER] key. menu appears again. By pressing the [EXIT] key instead of the [ENTER] key, you can cancel the operation and return to the previous screen.
Reference [Track Editing] the end point for the range to be preserved after trimming. OOOOOO000 V-take that you want to edit. The name of the selected track is briefly shown on the display, and then the track parameters and settings values are shown. TRACK2 4. Specify the trimming end point using the same procedure as in step 2. All data after the point specified here will be erased. 5. 3. Press the [ENTER] key. The indication “ENT/EXIT” appears on the display. 6.
Editing using V-takes ■ Copying a V-take COP You can copy the audio data of a specified V-take to any other V-take. This action will overwrite any existing data on the destination V-take. The data on the copy source V-take will be unchanged. • EXCHANGE Exchange the audio data of a specified V-take with the data of another V-take. 6. Copy source track Press the [ENTER] key. Copy The subsequent steps will differ, depending on which command was selected. See the sections for the respective commands.
Reference [Track Editing] parameter menu returns. By pressing the [EXIT] key instead of the [ENTER] key, you can cancel the operation and return to the previous screen. ■ Exchanging V-takes 5. To carry out the exchange operation, press the [ENTER] key once more. The exchange process is carried out, and the track parameter menu returns. By pressing the [EXIT] key instead of the [ENTER] key, you can cancel the operation and return to the previous screen.
Reference [Mixer] This section explains the functions and operation of the mixer built into the PS-04. About the PS-04 mixer • The signal produced by the mixer can be bounced to any track if desired (→ p. 42). The mixer in the PS-04 can be used to create a final stereo output mix by adjusting parameters (level, panning, EQ, send/return effect intensity etc.) for the recorded tracks and mixing these with the drum and bass track signals.
Reference [Mixer] HINT The track parameter menu for making input and track 1 – 4 settings appears. 2. • The [LINE IN] signal can be selected by pressing only one of the status keys 3 or 4. • When combining the [LINE IN] signal with another input source, the L and R components of the signal at the [LINE IN] jack are mixed to produce a mono signal. Use the cursor left/right keys to bring up the indication “INPUT SEL” on the display.
Assigning input signals to tracks HINT The recording level of the signal from the [LINE IN] jack can be adjusted with fader 3 or fader 4. (The recording level is always linked for the L and R channel.) 6. Input Next, select the track(s) on which the input source signal is to be recorded. Signal processing will be different, depending on whether the input source is mono (one signal) or stereo (2 signals), and whether 1 or 2 tracks are selected. Bring up the AUDIO mode top screen.
Reference [Mixer] Mixing the playback sound from tracks The level of the sound from audio tracks 1 – 4 and the drum and bass track can be adjusted as follows. 1. To adjust the level of audio tracks 1 – 4, bring up the AUDIO mode top screen and use faders 1 – 4 while performing playback with the recorder. When the PS-04 is in AUDIO mode, faders 1 – 4 are assigned to audio tracks 1 – 4. The level of each track is shown by the respective level meter.
Making adjustments for each track signal (track parameters) Parameter HI EQ ON/OFF Display indication EQ HI Setting range Description Audio Drum/bass Input track track ON / OFF Switches Hi EQ on and off. O O O O HI EQ GAIN HI G -12 – 12 Adjusts the Hi EQ boost/cut amount in the range from -12 dB to +12 dB. This parameter is shown only when Hi EQ is set to ON. HI EQ FREQUENCY HI F 500 – 8000 (Hz) Selects the Hi EQ frequency for boost/ cut.
Reference [Mixer] 4. 5. Turn the dial to change the setting value of the parameter selected in step 3. Repeat steps 3 and 4 to make all desired settings. By using the cursor left/right keys or the status keys to switch tracks, you can set the parameters for other tracks. 6. Linking tracks (stereo link) Two adjacent tracks can be linked so that their parameters (except V-take switching) are controlled together. This is referred to as “stereo link”.
Reference [Rhythm] This section explains the rhythm functions of the PS-04. About the rhythm section The rhythm section of the PS-04 uses built-in drum and bass sounds to produce rhythm accompaniment which can be played during recording and playback of the audio tracks. For example, during recording you might play a simple pattern that serves as a metronome. Or you can add drum and bass accompaniment to the recorded content of the audio tracks and bounce the result onto a pair of V-takes.
Reference [Rhythm] ■ Drum track/bass track ● Locate screen The part that records drum sound patterns in the PS-04 is called the drum track and the part that records bass sound patterns the bass track. When you create original patterns, you store playing information on these two tracks. This shows the current position in the pattern in measures and beats. While the rhythm is stopped, you can use the cursor left/right keys and the dial to move within the pattern in units of measures or beats.
PATTERN mode operation 3. Operate faders 1/2 to adjust the volume of the drum/bass track. In RHYTHM mode, fader 1 controls the drum track and fader 2 controls the bass track signal level. To stop the pattern, press the [R/P] key once more. The key goes out and playback stops. ■ Changing the tempo NOTE Immediately after creating a new project, the drum/bass signal level will be set to zero. To hear the rhythm play, you must raise the drum/ bass track signal level. 4. 7.
Reference [Rhythm] ■ Playing drum/bass sounds manually The rhythm pad screen of the PATTERN mode allows you to use the status keys 1 – 4 to manually play drum or bass sounds. After selecting a drum kit on the rhythm pad screen, the 16 drum/percussion sounds are divided into groups of 4 (these are called banks) and each sound of a bank is assigned to status keys 1 – 4. You therefore first select the bank which has the sound you want, and then press the respective status key.
PATTERN mode operation The currently selected type is shown on the left side of the display. Currently selected sound type DR PAD 4. P Press one of the status keys 1 – 4. If a drum kit is selected, the drum sound assigned to the key in the current bank is heard. If a bass program is selected, the bass note assigned to the key in the current bank is heard. While the status key is being pressed, the corresponding segment of the display lights up. 6. To adjust play intensity, operate fader 3.
Reference [Rhythm] display, and press the [ENTER] key. EMPTY 347 3. The current bar length setting appears on the display. 2 Press the [EDIT/UTILITY] key. The pattern utility menu for making PATTERN mode settings appears. NOTE QUANTI2E 4. To set the time signature, use the cursor left/right keys to bring up the indication “TIMSIG” on the display, and press the [ENTER] key. The current time signature setting appears on the display.
PATTERN mode operation 4. HINT The step length changes according to the currently selected smallest note unit (quantize setting). The default setting is a sixteenth note, but this can be changed if desired (→ p. 71). 1. From the PATTERN mode top screen, press the [REC] key. The [REC] key lights up and step input becomes possible. During step input, the current position is shown in measures/beats/ticks (1/48 of a quarter note). Track type Measure Beat Press the [R/P] key.
Reference [Rhythm] 2. Bass track step input When performing step input for the bass track, “sound duration” must be entered as an additional item. Otherwise, the input procedure is similar, in so far as the status keys and faders 3 and 4 are used to enter notes and rests. For example, also when the step length is constant, the duration setting can be varied, resulting in sounds of a different length (see illustration below). “B” stands for bass track. BO1-O1-00 3.
PATTERN mode operation 1/8 . . . . . Thirty-second note 1/12 . . . . Thirty-second triplet note 1/16 . . . . Sixty-fourth note 1/24 . . . . Sixty-fourth triplet note 5. Use fader 4 to select the bank which contains the desired pitch, and then press the respective status key. HINT Drum/bass track real-time input You can also enter drum kit and bass program information with the status keys in real time, while the pattern is running. 1. Bring up the PATTERN mode rhythm pad screen. 2.
Reference [Rhythm] ■ Copying a pattern HINT 6. The smallest note unit (quantize setting) can be changed (→ p. 71). You can copy any pattern in a project to another location. To pause the recording, press the [REC] key. 1. Press the [RHYTHM] key several times to bring up the PATTERN mode top screen. 2. Turn the dial to select the copy source pattern. Then press the [INSERT/DELETE (COPY)] key. The key flashes and the PS-04 switches to the pattern playback mode.
PATTERN mode operation ■ Deleting a pattern 2. You can return any pattern in a project to the empty condition. 1. Press the [RHYTHM] key several times to bring up the PATTERN mode top screen. 2. Turn the dial to select the pattern that you want to delete. Then press the [INSERT/DELETE (COPY)] key twice. The following indication appears. The PATTERN mode utility menu appears.
Reference [Rhythm] Select drum kit/bass program Selecting the drum kit or bass program to be used by the pattern. Refer to “Basic procedure for pattern editing” and bring up “DRUM KIT” or “BASS PRG” on the display. When you press the [ENTER] key, the display changes as follows. ● When “DRUM KIT” was selected Kit name Kit number LIVE 0 ● When “ORG CHORD” was selected Current chord type MAJOR The root can be set from E to D# in semitone steps. For the chord type, MAJOR or MINOR can be selected.
PATTERN mode operation characters long.) You can also use the faders 1 – 3 to select a character. The faders are assigned to the following character ranges. Fader 1 . . . . . . Letters (A – Z) Fader 2 . . . . . . Numerals (0 – 9) Fader 3 . . . . . . Symbols (+, -, @, space) ■ Setting PATTERN mode operation (pattern utility) This section explains how to set the smallest unit for pattern note input, control the precount function for real-time input, and make other PATTERN mode related settings.
Reference [Rhythm] 12 . . . . . . . . . 16 (default) . . 24 . . . . . . . . . 32 . . . . . . . . . Hi . . . . . . . . . . Eighth triplet note Sixteenth note Sixteenth triplet note Thirty-second note 1 tick (1/48 of quarter note) HINT The quantize setting applies to the entire rhythm section. Displaying/changing the number of measures in a pattern To display or change the number of measures in the currently selected pattern, proceed as follows.
SONG mode operation SONG mode operation screen (→ p. 62). DR PAD This section explains how to use SONG mode to play, create, and edit a song. S ■ SONG mode screens ■ Creating a song SONG mode has several screens. When you press the [RHYTHM] key to switch from PATTERN mode to SONG mode, the currently playing pattern number is always shown. This is called the SONG mode top screen.
Reference [Rhythm] 2. Press the [REC] key. INOO2X As shown below, the display indication changes to the current position. Step input for the song is now possible. 6. Current measure Current beat OO1-O1E0S End-of-song indication The indication “EOS” (End of Song) shows the position where the song ends. For an empty song, EOS will be located at the beginning. Therefore nothing happens if you play the song. As you enter information, the EOS position gets pushed further and further out.
SONG mode operation interval is shorter than the pattern itself, the song will switch to the next pattern before the current pattern has finished playing. 8. Repeat steps 3 – 7 to enter all required pattern information. 9. When all required pattern information has been entered, press the [REC] key. The [REC] key goes out and the PS-04 returns to the SONG mode top screen. If you press the [R/P] key, the created song will be played.
Reference [Rhythm] FAST input The FAST (Formula Assisted Song Translator) method uses simple formulas to specify rhythm pattern playback from start to end. The basic rules for combining patterns are described below. ● Lining up patterns Use the “+” (plus) symbol to line up patterns. For example, entering 0 + 1 + 2 will result in the following play sequence. 0 1 Cursor left/right keys or dial Move input position For example, to enter the formula 0 + (1 + 2) x 2, proceed as follows.
+C1+2 SONG mode operation 4. Cursor [R] key Move to right C1+2 _ Use the cursor left/right keys and faders 1 – 3 to enter the formula. If you have made a mistake, correct it as follows. ● Inserting a number/formula Fader 2 Input "X" C1+2 X Fader 1 Input "2" 1+2 X2 HINT For FAST input, leading zeros are omitted. For example, pattern 001 is shown as “1”, and pattern 050 as “50”. NOTE • The FAST method can only be used to write a song in one go, from beginning to end.
Reference [Rhythm] Entering chord progression data HINT • When “--” (no transformation) is selected as chord type, the bass phrase of the pattern is played as is. (However, the entire phrase will still be transposed according to the song root.) • When no information is input at the current point, the indication "←ROOT" (for root) or "←CHORD" (for chord type) is shown. This section explains how to add chord information (root and chord type) to the song.
SONG mode operation ● Erasing chord information If required, you can change the chord information in the middle of in a pattern and measure, as shown below. To do this, return to the current position screen, turn the dial to specify the current position in measure/beat units, and then call up the chord information input screen again. Measure Em 1 Am 2 B7 PATTERN A Em 3 Move the current position to the point from where you want to delete chord information.
Reference [Rhythm] 1. Press the [RHYTHM] key repeatedly to bring up the SONG mode top screen. 2. Press the [REC] key. 4. Use the cursor [W] key to bring up the input screen for the desired type of event. If event information has already been entered for this point, the value is shown. Event input and editing become possible, and the current position screen appears. When the indication “EV” is shown at right, some kind of event information has been input for this point.
SONG mode operation 5. 6. Turn the dial to enter the event setting value. Enter information for other events in the same way. To enter more information for the same type of event, use the cursor left/right keys to move the current position in measure units while on the event input screen, and then enter the information at the new location. (To check the current position, press the cursor [Q] key to return to the current position screen.
Reference [Rhythm] COP 4. 008 Turn the dial to select the copy source end measure, and press the [ENTER] key. The indication “TO” appears, and you can select the copy destination start point. TRANSP0SE 3. Verify that the indication “TRANSPOSE” is shown on the display, and press the [ENTER] key. The mode for transposing a song is enabled. Transpose value COP 002 5. Turn the dial to select the copy destination start measure. 6. To carry out the copy operation, press the [ENTER] key. O 4.
SONG mode operation ■ Clearing a song You can clear the entire contents of the song and return it to the blank condition. 1. 2. Press the [RHYTHM] key repeatedly to bring up the SONG mode top screen. You can import the song and all patterns from another project stored on a SmartMedia card, for use in the current project. NOTE When the import operation is carried out, all the patterns and song information in the current project will be overwritten. Press the [INSERT/DELETE (COPY)] key.
Reference [Effects] This section explains how to use and edit the effects built into the PS-04. ■ Insert effect About the effects The PS-04 has two types of effects, “insert effects” which are inserted at a specific point in the signal path, and the send/return effects which are routed through the built-in mixer and applies to all tracks. The two types can be used simultaneously. Algorithm The insert effect is a multi-effect that combines various single effects such as compressor and amp simulator.
About the effects Algorithm Effect module arrangement Input/output type GUITAR COMP PRE AMP/DRIVE ZNR EQ DELAY/ MODULATION MIC COMP/LIMITER MIC PRE ZNR EQ DELAY/ MODULATION LINE COMP/LIMITER ISOLATOR ZNR EQ DELAY/ MODULATION MASTERING MULTI COMP NORMALIZER ZNR EQ DIMENSION COMP/LIMITER COMP/LIMITER MIC PRE MIC PRE ZNR ZNR EQ EQ DOUBLING Mono → Stereo Stereo → Stereo DUAL The single effects that make up the algorithm are called “effect modules”.
Reference [Effects] HINT The patches for the insert effect and send/ return effect are stored by project. ■ EFFECT mode screens To make insert effect and send/return effect settings, you must switch the PS-04 to EFFECT mode by pressing the [EFFECT] key from the AUDIO, RHYTHM, or SYSTEM mode. When you switch to EFFECT mode, one of the following screens will appear. This section explains the steps for selecting an insert effect patch and editing its contents.
Basic steps for using the insert effect information on the tuner function, see page 92.) When you press the [TUNER/BYPASS] key or the [EXIT] key, the PS-04 returns to the condition of step 2. ● Stereo track recording Effect (M→S) Track 1 or 3 Input 1 If you press the [TUNER/BYPASS] key in a mode other than the EFFECT mode, the indication “BYPASS” is shown for a few seconds, and the insert effect will be bypassed. Pressing the [TUNER/BYPASS] key once more restores the original condition.
Reference [Effects] 3. Press the [EDIT/UTILITY] key. The name of the effect module currently selected for that patch is shown. (For modules that comprise several effect types, the name of the currently selected effect type is shown.) For example, when changing the effect type of the DELAY/MODULATION module to FLANGE, the following indication appears. Effect type name FLANGE Effect module name (or effect type name) COMP Which effect parameters can be adjusted depends on the effect type.
Basic steps for using the insert effect 10. To adjust the ZNR (Zoom Noise Reduction) sensitivity, use the cursor left/right keys to bring up the indication “TOTAL” on the display, and then operate fader 2. Name of parameter being adjusted Parameter setting value DEPTH 4 Set this as high as possible without causing the sound to be abruptly cut off when playing your instrument. 11. When the settings are complete, press the [EXIT] key.
Reference [Effects] ■ Changing an insert effect patch name The name of the currently selected insert effect patch can be changed as follows. 1. 2. From the insert effect top screen, select the patch whose name you want to change, and press the [EDIT/ UTILITY] key. Repeatedly press one of the cursor left/right keys to cause the first character of the patch name to flash.
Basic steps for using the send/return effect 6. Effect type name HALL 3. P1 ROOM 4. The send/return effect top screen returns. NOTE If you switch to another patch without first saving the edited patch, all changes will be lost. See the next section for information on how to store a patch. Use the cursor up/down keys to select the effect type. For details on effect types that can be selected for the send/return effect, see the list in the last section of this documentation.
Reference [Effects] 2. Repeatedly press one of the cursor left/right keys to cause the first character of the patch name to flash. TIGHT 3. 0 Turn the dial to select a character. For information on available characters, see page 71. HINT Using the tuner function The PS-04 incorporates a versatile tuner that can also accommodate 7-string guitar and other unconventional tunings. This section explains how to use the tuner function.
Using the tuner function shows the amount by which the current pitch is different from the correct pitch. The display reverts to the previous indication after a while. 440HZ Detected note name (o stands for #) D C HINT The reference pitch will be reset to A = 440 Hz when the PS-04 is turned off and then on again. Pitch is sharp 7. To quit the tuning function, press the [EXIT] key. The insert effect bypass condition is canceled, and the previous display appears again.
Reference [Effects] For example, When you select the tuning type “GT” (Guitar), the display shows the string number and the target note. String number/note name Tuning type 6E GT 3. Play the indicated string as an open string, and perform tuning. 4. Use the cursor up/down keys to select other string numbers. For example, when “GT” (Guitar) has been selected as tuning type, pressing the cursor [W] key cycles through the following string numbers. 6E → 5A → 4D → 3G → 2B → 1E → 7B → 6E ... 5.
Reference [System] This section explains how to use the SYSTEM mode for managing projects and making settings that affect the entire PS-04. SYSTEM mode screen When you press the [SYSTEM] key while the recorder is stopped, the PS-04 enters the SYSTEM mode which serves for managing projects and making settings that affect the entire unit. The system menu is shown. ■ Basic steps for handling projects When handling projects, some steps are similar for each action. These are as follows. 1.
Reference [System] • NAME Change the name of the currently loaded project. The subsequent steps will differ, depending on which option was selected. See the respective sections below. ■ Selecting a project You can select and load a project saved on SmartMedia card as follows. Recording grade GRADE HINT The recording grade can only be set for the entire project. 2. HINT When you turn power to the PS-04 on, the most recently used project will be automatically loaded. 1.
About projects Copy destination project number TO 2. 03 Turn the dial to select the copy destination project number, and press the [ENTER] key. The indication “ENT/EXIT” appears on the display. 3. To carry out the copy operation, press the [ENTER] key once more. To cancel the operation, press the [EXIT] key. When you carry out the copy operation, the copy destination project is loaded, and the AUDIO mode top screen appears. It is also possible to delete the currently loaded project.
Reference [System] projects” and bring up the indication “CAPACITY”. Then press the [ENTER] key. The remaining recording time is shown, converted to the duration of a mono track. OOO325636 HINT The time shown here changes depending on the recording grade setting (→ p. 96). 2. To return to the original screen, press the [EXIT] key repeatedly. Each press of the [EXIT] key goes back by one screen. ■ Changing the name of a project You can change the name of the currently loaded project. 1. 4.
Setting the built-in mic gain Setting the built-in mic gain You can adjust the input sensitivity of the built-in mic as follows. 1. With the recorder stopped, press the [SYSTEM] key. Turning the backlight on and off You can set the display backlight of the PS-04 to on or off as follows. If the PS-04 is powered from batteries, setting the backlight to off will help extend the life of the batteries. The system menu appears. 2. 1.
Reference [System] Formatting a SmartMedia card The following procedure will format a SmartMedia card inserted in the PS-04. NOTE If a SmartMedia card that was not formatted in the PS-04 is inserted, audio recording/playback and saving of other data will not be possible. Before using a new SmartMedia card, be sure to format the card in the PS-04. 1. Insert the new SmartMedia card and turn power to the PS-04 on. 2. Press the [SYSTEM] key. The system menu appears. 3.
Specifications Recorder Physical tracks 4 Virtual takes 40 (10 V-takes per track) Simultaneous recording tracks 2 Simultaneous playback tracks 7 (4 audio + stereo drum + bass) Recording media SmartMedia card (3.3 V, 16 – 128 MB) Max. recording time(converted to single monaural track) 16 MB 7 min. (HI-FI), 15 min. (LONG) 32 MB 16 min. (HI-FI), 32 min. (LONG) 64 MB 33 min. (HI-FI), 67 min. (LONG) 128 MB 67 min. (HI-FI), 134 min. (LONG) *Recording times are approximate.
Troubleshooting If there are problems during operation of the PS-04, check the following points first. Problems during playback ■ No sound, or sound is very weak • Check the connections to the monitor system and the volume setting of the monitor system. • Make sure that faders 1 - 4 are not set fully down. • Immediately after creating a new project, the drum track/bass track volume will be set to zero. Make sure that the faders for the drum/bass track are not set fully down.
Problems with effects ■ Recorded sound is distorted • If the insert effect is being applied to the output signal, check whether the effect settings are appropriate. • If the [INPUT] jack is being used, check whether the [INPUT LEVEL] knob setting is appropriate. • Check whether the EQ GAIN parameter has been set to a very high value. If this is the case, the sound may be distorted even when the fader is set to a low position.
Appendix Effect Parameters ■ Insert effect GUITAR/BASS algorithm ● COMP module TYPE COMP Parameter SENS ATTACK LEVEL Parameter Keeps the dynamic range consistent. SENS Setting range 0 - 10 0 - 10 1-8 ATTACK LEVEL Description Adjusts the compression input sensitivity. Adjusts the compression attack speed. Adjusts the module output level.
Effect Parameters Parameter GAIN TONE LEVEL CABI SPEAKR DEPTH TOP BODY COLOR Setting range 1 - 30 0 - 10 1-8 Table 1 Table 2 0 - 10 1 - 30 0 - 10 1-4 Description Adjusts the amount of gain. Adjusts the tone. Adjusts the module output level. Selects the cabinet type. Selects the loudspeaker type. Adjusts the cabinet resonance of the speaker. Adjusts the resonance of the strings. Adjusts the resonance of the body. Adjusts the character of the electroacoustic guitar preamp.
Appendix SLOW-A VIBE STEP RING CRY EXCITE AIR WIDE DELAY F-WAH ARRM P Parameter DEPTH RATE MIX FB Setting range EXCITE: 0 - 30 Other than EXCITE: 0 - 10 1 - 30 0 - 30 FLANGE: -10 - 10 DELAY: 0 - 9 POSI AF, bF COLOR CLIP 1-4 0 - 10 AUTO WAH, F-WAH: bPF, LPF ARRM P: Table 3 -12 - 24 0 - 10 TYPE SHIFT TONE BAL TIME CURVE RESO SENS FREQ LOWBST SIZE WETLVL DRYLVL DIRMIX R MODE 106 Creates a "violin playing" sound with soft attack. POSI TIME CURVE Automatic vibrato effect.
Effect Parameters Table 5 Table 6 R WAVE R SYNC Selects the control waveform type.
Appendix Parameter THRESH Setting range -24 - 0 COMP: 1 - 26 LIMIT: 1 - 54, ∞ 0 - 10 0 - 12 0 - 10 RATIO ATTACK LEVEL RELEAS Description Adjusts the sensitivity. Adjusts the compression degree of the signal. Adjusts the compression attack speed. Adjusts the module output level. Adjusts the time delay between the threshold and compression finish. ● MIC PRE module TYPE Parameter MICPRE Parameter COLOR TONE LEVEL DE-ESS Preamp for external mic.
Effect Parameters EXCITE AIR DELAY DOUBL F-WAH ARRM P Gives the sound more focus and spatial definition. FREQ DEPTH LOWBST Simulates the air ambience of the room, giving the sound spatial depth. SIZE TONE MIX Delay effect with a delay time of up to 1 second. TIME FB MIX Doubling that allows the delay time to be set in 1-ms steps up to 100 ms. TIME TONE MIX Changes the wah frequency in sync with rhythm tempo. TYPE FREQ DIRMIX R MODE R WAVE Changes the pitch in sync with rhythm tempo.
Appendix LINE algorithm ● COMP module See the MIC algorithm. ● ISOLATOR module TYPE ISOLATOR Parameter Divides the signal into three frequency bands, and specifies the mix amount each. XOVRLo XOVRHi MIXHi MIXMID Parameter XOVRLo XOVRHi MIXHi MIXMID MIXLOW Setting range 50 - 14000 50 - 14000 OFF, -24 - 6 OFF, -24 - 6 OFF, -24 - 6 MIXLOW Description Adjusts the frequency for bass/midrange division. Adjusts the frequency for midrange/treble division. Adjusts the treble mix amount.
Effect Parameters DUAL algorithm ● COMP module TYPE COMP L/r LIMIT L/r Parameter Keeps the dynamic range consistent. THRESH RATIO Controls the signal peeks. THRESH RATIO Parameter THRESH Setting range -24 - 0 COMP: 1 - 26 LIMIT: 1 - 54, ∞ 0 - 10 0 - 12 0 - 10 RATIO ATTACK LEVEL RELEAS ATTACK LEVEL RELEAS LEVEL Description Adjusts the sensitivity. Adjusts the compression degree of the signal. Adjusts the compression attack speed. Adjusts the module output level.
Appendix ● TOTAL module TYPE PATLVL ZNR L/r Parameter Adjusts the patch volume level. PATLVL Cuts noise during performance pauses. ZNR L/r Parameter PATLVL ZNR L/r Setting range 1 - 30 OFF, 1 - 30 Description Adjusts the patch volume level. Adjusts the sensitivity. MASTERING algorithm ● MULTI COMP module TYPE Parameter M-COMP Divides the signal into three frequency bands, and specifies the compression and the mix amount each.
Effect Parameters ■ Send effect TYPE HALL ROOM SPRING PLATE CHORUS DELAY Parameter PREDLY DECAY HI EQ LO EQ LEVEL LFOTYP DEPTH RATE TIME FB DAMP PAN ZOOM PS-04 Parameter Simulates the acoustics of a concert hall. Simulates the acoustics of a room. Simulates a spring type reverb machine. Simulates a plate reverb. PREDLY DECAY HI EQ *Parameters for type HALL to PLATE are the same. Adds pulsation and spaciousness to the sound. LFOTYP DEPTH RATE Delay effect with a delay time of up to 1 second.
Appendix Rhythm patterns Basic No. 000 001 002 003 004 005 006 007 008 009 010 011 012 013 014 015 016 017 018 019 Pattern name 08ST1 08ST2 08ST3 08ST4 08ST5 08ST6 08ST7 08ST8 08ST9 08STA 08STB 08STC 16ST1 16ST2 16ST3 16ST4 16ST5 16ST6 16ST7 16ST8 Rock No.
Rhythm patterns HUS03 HUS04 HUS1V HUS2V HUS1F HUS2F Techno No. Pattern name TCH01 184 TCH02 185 TCH03 186 TCH04 187 TCH05 188 TCH06 189 TCH07 190 TCH08 191 TCH09 192 TCH10 193 TCH1V 194 TCH2V 195 TCH1F 196 TCH2F 197 Drum'n'bass No. Pattern name DNB01 198 DNB02 199 DNB03 200 DNB04 201 DNB05 202 DNB06 203 DNB1V 204 DNB2V 205 DNB1F 206 DNB2F 207 Trip No. Pattern name TRP01 208 TRP02 209 TRP03 210 TRP04 211 Ambient No.
Appendix Effect patches ■ Insert effect GUITAR/BASS algorithm No.
Effect patches 44 45 46 47 48 49 50-59 B-SLAP B-COMP B-EDGE B-SOLO BS-8VA B-WAH EMPTY Crisp slap sound Sound with attack, controlled by picking dynamics Tight sound with an edge Chorus sound for melodies Sound with an upper octave mixed in Funky bass with auto-wah MIC algorithm No.
Appendix 14 15 16 17 18 19 20-29 MN2ST DIRTY SWPPHA 8VA SFXLAB AMRDIO EMPTY Gives spaciousness to a monaural source Low-fi distortion using ring modulator Phaser with powerful resonance SFX adding a one-octave lower sound Forced SFX sound for synthesizer AM radio simulation DUAL algorithm No.
Effect patches MASTERING algorithm No.
Appendix 27 28 29 35-39 SRTDLY SLO LD WRMDLY EMPTY Versatile short delay Keeps fast phrases tight Simulates warm analog delay Drum kits/Bass programs ● Drum kits No. 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Display LIVE POWER JAZZ ANALOG GENE FUNK SCRAT Kit name Live kit Power kit Jazz kit Analog kit General kit Funk kit Scratch kit ● Bass programs No.
Compatibility with PS-02 and MRS-4 Compatibility with PS-02 and MRS-4 ■ PS-02 When the PS-02 SmartMedia card is inserted to the PS-04, the unit operates as follows: • If all audio tracks of a song are recorded in "HF" (Hi-Fi) grade, a project in "HI-FI" grade automatically created. • If all audio tracks of a song are recorded in "LG" (long) grade, a project in "LONG" grade automatically created. • If "HF" and "LG" grade audio tracks is mixed in a song, a project in "HI-FI" grade.
INDEX ■ Symbols ( ) + .................... .................... .................... .................... 76 76 76 76 ■A A-B repeat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Algorithm . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21, 84 AUDIO mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Audio track. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Auto punch-in/out . . . . . . . . . 41 ■B Backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Bass program . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Manual play . . . . . . . . . . 62 Selecting . . . . . . . . . . . .
Files on SmartMedia card INDEX Selecting and playing a pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Pattern editing . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Pattern list1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 PATTERN mode . . . . . . . . . . 59 Locate screen . . . . . . . . 60 Rhythm pad screen . . . 60 Top screen . . . . . . . . . . 60 Pattern utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Power-on/off . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Changing the project name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The FCC regulation warning (for U.S.A.) 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 instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
