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ESI ESI2000 Operation Manual

Digital sampling system
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WARNING:
READ THIS
FIRST
This symbol is intended to alert the user to
the presence of important operating and
maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to
the presence of un-insulated dangerous
voltage within the product's enclosure that
may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Use in countries other than the U.S.A. may require the use of a different
line cord or attachment plug, or both. To reduce the risk of fire or
electric shock, refer servicing to qualified service personnel. To reduce
risk of fire or electric shock do not expose this product to rain or mois-
ture.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This product must be grounded. If it should malfunction or break down,
grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current, reduc-
ing the risk of electric shock. This product is equipped with a cord
having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The
plug must be plugged into an appropriate outlet properly installed and
grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
DANGER
Improper connection of equipment grounding conductor can result in
the risk of electric shock. Check with a qualified electrician or service
personnel if you are in doubt as to whether the product is properly
grounded. Do not modify the plug provided with this product. If it will
not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified technician.
CAUTION
If the 6200, ESI is rack mounted, a standard 19 inch open frame rack
must be used.
USER-MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
1. The ESI should be kept clean and dust free. Periodically wipe the
unit with a clean, lint free cloth. Do not use solvents or cleaners.
2. There are no user lubrication or adjustment requirements.
3. Refer all other servicing to qualified service personnel.
INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC
SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS
WARNING; When using electric products, basic precautions should
always be followed, including the following:
1. Read all instructions before using the ESI.
2. To reduce the risk of injury, close supervision is necessary when the
ESI is used near children.
3. Do not use the ESI near water — for example near a bathtub,
washbowl, kitchen sink, in a wet basement, on a wet bar, or near or
in a swimming pool.
4. Situate the ESI so that its location or position does not interfere with
its proper ventilation.
5. The ESI should be located away from heat sources such as radiators,
heat registers, fireplaces, stoves, or ovens.
i
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Summary of Contents for ESI ESI2000

  • Page 1 CAUTION If the 6200, ESI is rack mounted, a standard 19 inch open frame rack This symbol is intended to alert the user to must be used.
  • Page 2 6. The ESI should only be connected to a power supply of the type described in the operating instructions and as marked on the product. 7. Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure of the ESI through openings.
  • Page 3 • Turn the television or radio antenna until the interference stops. • Move the ESI to one side or the other of the television or radio. • Move the ESI farther away from the television or radio. • Plug the ESI into an outlet on a different circuit than the television or radio.
  • Page 4 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Contents General Instructions Introduction ..................3 The ESI ....................4 Connection Instructions ............... 6 Connection Diagram ................7 Connecting to an Unformatted Hard Disk ..........9 Sampling Basics .................. 10 Definitions ..................11 Additional Definitions................. 15 Controls Master Volume ..................21 Data Entry Control ................
  • Page 6 3. MIDI Load Bank ..............81 4. MIDI Volume Pedal ............81 5. MIDI Volume/Pan ............... 82 6. Multimode Enable .............. 82 0. Import Options ................83 0. Akai Import................ 83 1. Emax II Import ..............89 ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 7 Sample Management 0. Select Sample .................. 95 1. Load Sample ................... 95 2. Rename Sample ................96 3. Erase Sample .................. 97 4. Copy Sample .................. 98 5. Sample Setup .................. 99 6. Place Sample ................. 101 7. Arm Sampling ................102 8.
  • Page 8 Effects Parameters ................231 Using SCSI ..................237 Disk Drive Compatibility ..............241 Keyboard Character Chart ..............242 ESI Menu Map .................. 243 MIDI Key Number Chart ..............244 MIDI Implementation Chart ............. 245 Specifications ..................246 Error Codes ..................247 Troubleshooting ................

  • Page 9: General Instructions

    General Instructions Introduction ......3 The ESI ........4 Connection Instructions ..6 Connection Diagram ....7 Connecting to a Hard Disk ..9 Sampling Basics ..... 10 Definitions ......11 Additional Definitions ... 15 Intro/Basic Setup...
  • Page 10 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 11: Introduction

    Welcome to the ESI Digital Sampling System. Congratulations are Introduction definitely in order! The many functions of ESI are detailed in this manual by their module. Screen displays and step-by-step instructions are described for all aspects of use and operation. Sidebars are used to highlight important points or to give useful operational tips which might not be readily apparent.

  • Page 12: The Esi

    TRIGGER MODE MIDI ESI is the very latest in the long line of high quality and affordable E-mu sampling products. ESI features 22.05 kHz and 44.1 kHz sampling rates and 16-bit resolution for CD quality sound. Sampling can be performed in either mono or true stereo.
  • Page 13 The Turbo option card adds four additional submix outputs plus an Effects main output. The ESI can access up to 999 samples per bank arranged in up to 256 presets. The integral 3.5" floppy disk drive provides a convenient means of storing and loading banks.

  • Page 14: Connection Instructions

    Submix Outputs/Mix In: In addition to the main stereo outputs, the halfway into either of the sub output jacks ESI has an additional pair of submix outputs which can be used when allows you to sum into the main outputs individual processing on specific instruments is desired.

  • Page 15: Connection Diagram

    Connection Diagram To Digital Mixer, DAT, etc. Digital Effect Device 60 mS Digital Input Device DAT Recorder, etc. SCSI Device Main FX Outputs To Mixer SCSI Turbo Option Card S/PDIF SUB 3 SUB 2 TIP=LEFT RING=RIGHT MIDI In Power Cord Other Submix Out/Mix In Sampler...

  • Page 16: Midi Connection

    110V / 220V Operation your ESI-4000. The ESI may be used in either 110 volt or 220 volt environments at either 50 Hz or 60 Hz. No change of voltage settings is required. ESI automatically switches itself for 110 or 220 volt operation.

  • Page 17: Connecting To An Unformatted Hard Disk

    3. Set the SCSI ID of your external SCSI device to any number other than 5 or 0. (5 is the default ID of the ESI, 0 is used by the floppy drive). Consult the operation manual of your SCSI device for this procedure.

  • Page 18: Sampling Basics

    The ESI is conceptually like a tape recorder. However, the recording process is very different since the ESI digitally records into its computer memory. Sounds for the ESI can be loaded via removable-media hard disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM using the SCSI interface;...

  • Page 19: Definitions

    You can think of the ESI as resembling a collection of sound-organizing modules, all contained within an the ESI bank. Pathways indicate how information flows within the ESI. Let’ s take a closer look at what makes up this information, and how it is transferred from one section of the instrument to another.
  • Page 20 As an example, suppose you wanted to set the velocity response for the entire keyboard. You would first select the zone range by playing the lowest and highest keys when prompted by the ESI. Next you would set the velocity response (in the Dynamic Processing module). Done.
  • Page 21 Loop Points Loop Points Loop Points THE BANK All the data loaded into the ESI is called the Bank. Each individual keyboard setup is called a Preset. Individual Samples can be shared among presets. The Internal Drive A disk drive is a memory storage device that stores banks of data. The standard ESI has a built-in floppy disk drive which can be used to load and store bank data.
  • Page 22 ESI. Here are some of the Emax II or the Akai S1000/S1100. types of mass storage devices that can plug into the ESI’ s SCSI connector. • Hard Disk Drive: A hard disk provides the advantages of much higher memory capacity and far faster access time.

  • Page 23: Additional Definitions

    029. You can always hear the current sample by pressing the audition button or entering the Digital Processing module. Modules A module controls a particular set of functions in the ESI. There are six main modules: Master/Global, Preset Management, Preset Definition, Sample Management, Digital Processing and Dynamic Processing.
  • Page 24 Saving The bank only retains data for as long as the ESI is plugged in and turned on. Of course, we don’t expect you to leave the thing on all the time, which brings us to the subject of saving data.
  • Page 25 By specifying one or more of these samples (or portions thereof) as a zone, the zone may then be processed by the ESI’ s dynamic signal processors. • After arranging a bank, it can be saved to one or more drives.
  • Page 26 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 27: Controls Master Volume

    Controls Master Volume ....... 21 Data Entry Control ....21 INC/DEC Buttons ....21 Ten Key Pad ......21 Escape ........21 Enter ........21 Cursor/Page ......22 Preset Selection ...... 22 Load Bank ......23 Save Bank ....... 23 Drive Select ......
  • Page 28 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 29: Controls

    A flashing Enter LED means that the ESI wants you to do something. Data may need to be entered, or the ESI may be waiting for you to press the Enter button to activate a particular operation. If the Enter LED is lit steadily, pressing Enter is optional.

  • Page 30: Cursor/Page

    Tip: The cursor buttons can be used to placed under the preset number, presets may be incremented or select presets only when the ESI is in Omni decremented by pressing the left and right cursor buttons. This or Poly modes.

  • Page 31: Save Bank

    1. Press Save. 2. If necessary, select the drive to which the bank will be saved. The ESI saves the bank to the current drive by default. If you want to choose a different drive, place the cursor under the drive number in line two, select the appropriate drive and press ENTER.

  • Page 32: Drive Select

    Drive Select Use the Drive Select Button to select which storage device to use when loading or saving. The ESI may have an internal hard disk and/or several external SCSI devices connected. 1. Press Drive Select. The display shows:...

  • Page 33: Multimode

    MIDI channel, Volume or Pan setting. If you also blocks incoming preset changes on that do not want the ESI to respond to certain MIDI channels, set the channel. preset for those channels to “Unassigned” which is located just below preset 000.
  • Page 34 3. While holding Transpose, check the display to confirm the transposition interval. Upward transpositions are indicated with a + symbol, downward transpositions with a - symbol. For example, if the ESI is transposed up a fifth, the display will show: TRANSPOSE Play a Key 4.
  • Page 35 Guided Tours 1. Basics ......... 29 2. Selecting Zones ....33 3. Dynamic Processing ... 35 4. Realtime Controls ....42 5. Sampling ......45 6. Digital Processing ....47 7. Managing the Bank .... 54 8. On Your Own ..... 54 Guided Tours...
  • Page 36 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 37: Guided Tours

    Tour 1: Welcome to the Guided Tours! If you have just met the ESI for the first time, we suggest that you follow these tours until you complete the Guided Tours section. This will get you up and running on the ESI in the fastest possible time.
  • Page 38 Using an External Hard Disk You may connect an external hard disk, to load and save data, to the ESI external SCSI port. Before connecting any SCSI device, always make sure that power to the ESI and the external SCSI device is turned Off.
  • Page 39 To Save a Bank to Disk: 1. Press the Save button. Position the cursor under the drive number in line two. Select the disk drive using the data entry control. Press ENTER. 2. Use the Data entry control to select an Empty Bank. Empty banks are indicated as such, along with their bank number on line three.
  • Page 40 Tuning the ESI to Other Instruments Select the Master/Globals module. Choose sub-module Master Tune (1). This function demonstrates how ESI uses the Data Entry Control to adjust a parameter. Play the keyboard while adjusting the Data Entry Control to change the overall tuning.

  • Page 41: Tour 2: Selecting Zones

    Tour 2: The Current Sample & Current Zone The ESI has two modules dedicated exclusively to processing samples within a preset: Sample Management and Digital Processing. Each Selecting sample stored in a bank can be processed by the Digital Processing module independently.
  • Page 42 3 . S e l e c t a S u b m o d u l e & M o d i f y Z o n e Any range of the keyboard can be a zone. Select the low and high keys which define the zone, then select the Dynamic Processing parameter to be modified. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 43: Tour 3: Dynamic Processing

    A filter is a device which allows you to remove certain components of a sound depending on its frequency. For example, a Low Pass Filter, like the one in ESI, lets the low frequencies pass and removes only the high frequencies.
  • Page 44 Remember, you have to re-trigger the key to hear the results of changing the Q. 3. Set Cutoff to 200 Hz and Q to about 50. The range of notes covered by the current zone should sound muted. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 45 To Change the Filter Cutoff Envelope: Enabling the envelope generator allows the envelope to control the cutoff frequency automatically. 1. Select page two by pressing the right cursor arrow. Tracking: +1.00 Envelope Amt: Investigate the effects of envelope control over the filtered sound by moving the cursor to the Envelope Amount.
  • Page 46 2. Select the VCA function (2). The display shows: Strings Level: 100% Pan: + 0% Percussion 3. Select the next page of the VCA controls with the right cursor. The generalized envelope shapes of a few types of sounds are shown above. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 47 VCA Attack: 0.20s Hold: 0.00s Decay: 0.30s Sus:50% Rel:0.60s Move the cursor under the various envelope parameters and observe how different settings affect the sound. Before moving on, make sure you have a sound that is fairly sustained with little or no envelope attack time.
  • Page 48 Now play the keyboard. Since we are using an inverted envelope, notes will bend up to pitch and then hold there. This is an effect common in many natural sounds. Vary the various envelope parameters, and observe the effect these changes have on the sound. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 49 (Feed floppies as directed.) 2. When the bank is loaded, activate the Dynamic Processing module. You do not need to specify the current zone. ESI sets the entire keyboard as the current zone by default! 4. Select Velocity To (6). The display will look something like this:...

  • Page 50: Tour 4: Realtime Controls

    Pitch Bend Range (7). Modulation Wheel Destinations The ESI offers two modulation options: Pre-programmed, which adds a constant, selectable amount of modulation, and Realtime, where the player adds in modulation by using one of the wheels or other controllers.

  • Page 51: Modulation Destinations

    2: VCF Cutoff 8: Attack then assigned pressure to VCF cutoff, the 3: VCA Level 9: Crossfade ESI would automatically turn off the mod. control to VCF cutoff routing. 4: LFO->Pitch 10: VCF Note-On Q 5: LFO -> Cutoff Footswitch Destinations...
  • Page 52 Keeping this in mind, refer to the Preset Definition module, 0. Realtime Controls, footswitch destinations 0-9. (Destinations 3-7 are EIII func- tions which were not implemented in the ESI. The numbers were retained to maintain compatibility.) Assign various functions to the footswitches.

  • Page 53: Tour 5: Sampling

    Available Check the available sampling time. This will vary depending on how much memory you have in your ESI. 5. Change the source using the data entry control for analog sampling. Set the source to either Analog 22050 Hz or Analog 44100 Hz.
  • Page 54 Speaking into the microphone, you should see the VU meter move, Tip: The optimum gain level setting for indicating that the ESI is receiving signal. Place the cursor on line one of ESI is +00. For high-quality sampling, use the display and use the Data Entry Control to adjust the input gain.

  • Page 55: Tour 6: Digital Processing

    When you are satisfied with your truncating efforts, press ENTER. The ESI will automatically make a backup of the sample on the hard disk, (if you have one connected) in case you decide that you don’t like the truncation after all.

  • Page 56: A Practice Sampling Session

    G1. 8. Truncate the silence off of the beginning and end of the sound. Activate the Digital Processing module. The ESI will default to the only sample in the unit, which is the one you just made.
  • Page 57 To loop, first move the Data Entry Control to make the loop length about half a second long. Next, move the start point into the sustained portion of the ahhh sound so that the ticking sound becomes softer. The idea is to loop the “hhh” portion of the “ahhh” but not the “a “ part. The loop length can be adjusted so that it matches the rhythm or wavering of the sound.
  • Page 58 5. Move the cursor under End on line three. Adjust the Data Entry Control so that only the word “cut” is heard. Press ENTER. The display will inform you that the ESI is backing up the sample, and then will return you to the module identifier.
  • Page 59 6. Select Paste Region (6). Use the Data Entry Control to select the sample to which you want to paste. The display shows: PASTE secs samples Offset: 0.00 00000 Select Location Adjust the offset past that “tt” sound of the word paste. Again use the left and right cursor keys once you get close.
  • Page 60 Linear The Start and End amounts on lines two and three are already at the correct settings. There will be no attenuation at the Start point, tapering to full attenuation at the End point of the sample. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 61 The pitch change Type is not critical, but mid-2 seems to work well for voice. Press Enter to begin the pitch change. If you have a hard disk connected, the ESI will automatically back up your sample before processing it. If you don't like the resulting pitch change, press Digital Processing, Undo.

  • Page 62: Tour 7: Managing The Bank

    The proceeding guided tours cover only the basics. To cover every possibility of how to use the ESI would drown you in words. It’ s better that you just start playing! The best way to learn about the ESI is to Your Own…...
  • Page 63 Master/Global 1. Master Tune ....... 57 2. Rename Bank ..... 57 3. Erase Bank ......58 4. Effects ........ 58 5. Export ........ 59 6. Memory Available ....60 7. Disk Utilities ...... 60 0. SCSI Setup ......... 61 1. Mount Drives ......62 2.
  • Page 64 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 65: Master/Global

    4. Select the Transpose amount. Transpose allows you to transpose the ESI without the use of a keyboard. The transpose range is ± one octave. 5. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 2. Rename This submodule allows you to rename the current bank.

  • Page 66: Erase Bank

    3. Erase Erasing a bank erases ALL the memory in the ESI, which includes all samples and presets. Bank 1. Activate Master/Global module. 2. Select Erase Bank (submodule 3). 3. Decide if you really want to erase the bank. The display will inform you that you are about to erase all samples and presets in the current bank.

  • Page 67: Export

    5. Export Export Functions This function allows you to save an ESI bank so that it can be read by a predecessor of the ESI. If the bank you are trying to save exceeds 8 MB, or has more then 100 presets or 100 samples, you will not be allowed to save as an EIII bank.

  • Page 68: Memory Available

    This may limit Sample your sample size even though you have plenty of memory left. 4. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 7. Disk Disk Utilities include several additional numbered subsections.

  • Page 69: Scsi Setup

    If you have a computer connected to the ESI SCSI bus, the “Ignore Host on ID” function should be set to the ID number of the computer so the ESI will not try to access the computer itself as one of its disk drives. 1. Activate Master/Global module.

  • Page 70: Mount Drives

    This utility instructs the ESI to check the SCSI bus for the presence of SCSI devices. If a SCSI device has been powered up after the ESI, it will not appear in Tip: Use the “Mount Drives” utility the list of available devices. The Mount Drives utility tells the ESI to...

  • Page 71: Erase Disk Bank

    7. Press Yes to erase the bank or No to cancel the operation. In either case, the ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 4. Lock Bank and Drive If you don’t want to risk curious hands unintentionally erasing a bank or drive, here’...

  • Page 72: Disk Status

    D1 Selected Drive B00 Current Bank Select a Bank 7. Select whether lock is on or off, then press ENTER. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 5. Disk Status This function displays the amount of space that is available on a hard disk drive and if the drive is locked or not.

  • Page 73: Disk Status

    (such as home com- puters), since these will not be formatted correctly for the ESI. Format- ting a disk will not erase the bank currently in memory.

  • Page 74: Formatting Hard Disks

    The Appendix contains a listing of disk drives that have been tested with the ESI. Other types will probably also work. If in doubt, the best idea is to try out the drive with the ESI before you buy it. HD Interleave Options There is a hidden menu when the display asks: “Are You Sure?”...

  • Page 75: Backup

    Option #8 allows you to install the ESI file system on a pre-formatted hard disk. This option is quite handy since it saves the time of format- ting. Many hard disk drive brands of now come pre-formatted. Option #9 allows you to perform a low level format on a “virgin” optical platter (of the Sony type only).
  • Page 76 BACKUP High Range: D0 Main Drive D1 Removable Media 22 Dog Barks 8. Select the high bank of the range. 9. Press ENTER when the highest bank in the range has been selected. The following screen will appear: ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 77 BACKUP D0 Main Drive D1 Removable Media Bank Dest: SameBank • Same Bank: Copies the banks into the same numbered bank locations on the destination disk. • Empty Bank: Copies the banks into the lowest consecutive empty bank locations on the destination disk. 10.

  • Page 78: Special

    7. Trigger Buttons: Programs the ten-key pad to trigger keyboard notes without a MIDI keyboard when the ESI is in Trigger Mode. 8. RAM Test: Tests the CPU and the sample memory and displays any errors.

  • Page 79: Recalibrate

    Negative values make the display easier to read from below. 1. Activate Master/Global module. 2. Select Special (8), Contrast (2). 3. Select the desired contrast setting. CONTRAST Contrast: Select Contrast 4. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. Master/Global...

  • Page 80: Headroom/Boost

    If you hear clipping from the ESI, raise the amount of headroom. The headroom setting is retained when power is switched off.

  • Page 81: Main Output Format

    Output Boost: 0 dB 3. Set the Output Boost to +12 dB. 4. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 4. Main Output Format The optional Turbo card adds a digital audio output for interfacing with other digital audio gear.

  • Page 82: Software Version

    4. Press the right cursor key to view the credits. The names of the ESI design team are listed, thank-you very much. 5. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 6. View Channel Levels This is a channel monitor screen which enables you to see the volume envelope status of all 64 voice channels.

  • Page 83: Ram Test

    A RAM test should always be performed after you have updated the Caution: Dangerous voltages are present amount of sample memory in your ESI. The test will verify if the new inside the ESI enclosure. Consult your local RAM is working and has been correctly installed.

  • Page 84: Midi

    This section contains several additional numbered functions. These 9. MIDI MIDI global functions act on all presets in the ESI. Here are short descriptions of each submodule. More extensive descriptions follow. 1. MIDI Mix: Allows you to monitor and change the volume and pan settings of all 16 MIDI channels at once.

  • Page 85: Midi Mix

    1. MIDI Mix The MIDI Mix screen is extremely useful in that it allows you to easily fine tune the volume and pan of each preset. In addition, it allows you to override the output channel setting programmed in the Dynamic Pro- cessing module and route each MIDI channel to the output of your choice.

  • Page 86: Midi Globals

    MIX C=01 Submix=main Mzzz 111z zzzz zzzz 6. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI returns to the Module Identifier. 2. MIDI Globals MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is a universal interface which allows the exchange of musical information between various electronic instruments.

  • Page 87: Continuous Controller Assignment

    MIDI control number 01, and that received by ESI over MIDI. Your MIDI MIDI Control Source A on the ESI controls the filter cutoff frequency. keyboard will probably have inputs for a Selecting 01 for MIDI Control Source A would route the sequencer’ s pedal and footswitch.
  • Page 88 (also assigned in the Preset Definition, Realtime Control submodule) such as Sustain, Sample Cross-switch, etc.. This screen allows you to match the ESI to your MIDI controller's A few of the standardized MIDI switch footswitch numbers.

  • Page 89: Midi Load Bank

    3. MIDI Load Bank This feature allows a MIDI command to load banks from the hard disk. The “Magic Preset” is a preset number which tells the ESI that the next preset change command that it receives over MIDI is the bank number to be loaded.

  • Page 90: Midi Volume/Pan

    5. MIDI Volume/Pan When this function is turned On, the MIDI continuous controllers 7 and 10 will automatically be routed to volume and pan whenever the ESI is in multimode (Volume and Pan are the standard functions of controller number 7 & 10.) and their assignments in the Preset Definition submodule will be ignored.

  • Page 91: Import Options

    • 0. Akai Import: Allows the ESI to read and convert programs and samples from the Akai S1000 and S1100 samplers. • 1. Emax II Import: Allows the ESI to read and convert presets and samples from the Emax II sampler.
  • Page 92 An Akai SCSI device is NOT mounted and accessed like a normal ESI drive (the load and drive buttons will not access the Akai drive). Instead, it is accessed and operated using the Akai menus. Only one Akai SCSI device can be known to the ESI at any given time.
  • Page 93 “Preserve Order” is On, the ESI will place the first program at preset 0 (if it not already filled), and the next two at locations 126 and 127. All three presets will be linked together so that all will sound when preset 0 is selected.
  • Page 94 Akai Mini-Glossary Partition = Akai hard disks are divided into partitions of 30, 40, 50, or 60 megabytes, unlike the ESI which sees the hard disk as one continuous area. Volume = An Akai partition can contain up to 128 Volumes. A volume is a collection of programs, equivalent to an ESI bank.
  • Page 95 10. Use the INC/DEC buttons or the Data Entry Control to select the Program. Press ENTER to load and convert a single program. “All” allows you to load and convert all programs in the volume. Selecting “None” allows you to load samples only. AKAI LOAD from Vol:PIANOS Program:FullGrand...
  • Page 96 B. Answer “Y” to “Load Another?”. C. Load the preset volume. The above warning only applies to Akai banks with Samples and Programs stored in different Volumes. 13. Press No to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 97: Emax Ii Import

    (the load and drive buttons will not access the Emax II drive). Instead, it is accessed and operated using the Emax II import menus. Only one Emax or Akai SCSI device can be known to the ESI at any given time.
  • Page 98 5. Press 1 to select the Import Options screen. The following screen will appear. When this function is set to YES, the ESI will issue an extra prompt whenever a load operation is about to destroy the current bank. Press ENTER after selecting your choice.
  • Page 99 Sample Size • Since samples do not have names in the Emax II, they are imported into the ESI with Sxx appended to the bank name, where xx is the number of the sample. Example: Bosendorf8M_002 Piano. • Bank and preset names retain their names from Emax II.
  • Page 100 ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 101 Sample Management 0. Select Sample ..... 95 1. Load Sample ...... 95 2. Rename Sample ....96 3. Erase Sample...... 97 4. Copy Sample ...... 98 5. Sample Setup ..... 99 6. Place Sample ....101 7. Arm Sampling ....102 8.
  • Page 102 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 103: Sample Management

    0. Select This submodule selects a sample for placing on the keyboard, or the sample into which a sound will be recorded. Sample 1. Activate Sample Management module. 2. Select the Select Sample submodule (0). 3. Select the desired sample and press ENTER. As you scroll through non-empty samples, the display will show the sample number, name, sampling rate, sampling length, how many presets use the sample, and whether the sample is stereo, left, or right.

  • Page 104: Rename Sample

    Data Entry Control and keyboard. You can also use the up cursor to insert spaces and the down cursor to delete spaces. (See Sample Management, Rename Sample (2).) 9. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 2. Rename This submodule allows you to rename any sample.

  • Page 105: Erase Sample

    RENAME SAMPLE 001 Untitled Sample [0-9]/Encoder/Kybd 5. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 3. Erase Individual samples can be erased from the bank, and newly created samples in memory can be erased using this function.

  • Page 106: Copy Sample

    Data Entry Control and keyboard. You can also use the up cursor to insert spaces and the down cursor to delete spaces. 6. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier.

  • Page 107: Sample Setup

    5. Sample Use this module to prepare the ESI for sampling. Either the analog inputs or the optional digital input can be sampled. Setup 1. Activate Sample module. If you want to sample into the sample number shown on the display, you need do nothing except proceed to the next step.
  • Page 108 Monitor through while sampling: on • Monitor Through While Sampling: Allows you to monitor through the main outputs while sampling is occurring. 7. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 109: Place Sample

    6. Place Samples in the bank can be placed to cover a particular range of the keyboard. Sample 1. Activate Sample Management module. The display will show the current sample number and name. If this is not the sample you want to place, refer to Sample Management, Select Sample (0).

  • Page 110: Arm Sampling

    4. Terminate sampling. This will occur automatically after reaching the end of the sample length set in Sample Setup (5), or if the ESI runs out of memory. To stop sampling manually, press ESCAPE. In either case, the display will return to the Module Identifier.

  • Page 111: Midi Sample Dump

    Integrity (7)) may be able to automatically repair them. Otherwise adjust the loop points. The ESI can transmit sample data with a word size of either 14 or 16 bits (Certain instruments such as the SP-1200 require the use of the 14 bit word size).
  • Page 112 Word Size: 16 Bits Select 14/16 Bits 5. Select a sample to be transmitted and press ENTER. If the selected sample is stereo, the ESI will ask you to select which side is to be transmitted. MIDI SAMPLE DUMP Direction: Transmit...

  • Page 113: Preset Management 1. Load Preset

    Preset Management 1. Load Preset ...... 107 2. Rename Preset ....108 3. Erase Preset ..... 109 4. Copy Preset ...... 109 5. Create Preset ....110 6. Preset Size ......111 7. Merge All Presets ..... 111 Preset Management...
  • Page 114 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 115: Preset Management

    1. Load A preset, with its samples, can be loaded from the floppy disk, the internal Zip disk or an external storage device. Preset 1. Activate Preset Management module. 2. Select Submodule Load Preset (1). 3. If you wish to select a different drive, move the cursor to the drive number.

  • Page 116: Rename Preset

    You can also use the up cursor to insert spaces and the down cursor to delete spaces. (See 2. Rename Preset.) 9. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI returns to the Module Identifier. 2. Rename This submodule allows you to rename any preset in the ESI-32's current bank.

  • Page 117: Erase Preset

    3. Erase Individual presets, with or without their samples, can be erased from the bank loaded into the ESI to free up memory space. Preset 1. Activate Preset Management module. 2. Select Submodule Erase Preset (3). 3. Select the preset to be erased, then press ENTER.

  • Page 118: Create Preset

    You can also use the up cursor to insert spaces and the down cursor to delete spaces. 6. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 5. Create An empty preset must be initialized by the ESI before it can hold samples.

  • Page 119: Preset Size

    2. Select Merge All Presets (9). 3. If necessary, select the drive from which you wish to load the bank. The ESI will default to the current drive. If you want to choose a different drive, place the cursor under the drive number in line two of the display, select the appropriate drive and press ENTER.
  • Page 120 6. Press ENTER to merge the presets. The display shows the new locations of the presets in the bank, then returns you to the Module Identifier. MERGE PRESETS into 025 Empty Preset Select Dest Preset ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 121: Digital Processing

    Digital Processing Background ......114 0. Select Sample ....121 1. Setup ........ 121 2. Loop ......... 123 3. Truncation ......125 4. Copy Region ....125 5. Cut Region ....... 127 6. Paste Region ..... 128 7. Digital Tools 1 ....131 0.

  • Page 122: Background

    Instead, you can mark off a loop of the repetitive section, and instruct the ESI to play that looped section for as long as the key is held down. After playing to the end of the loop, ESI jumps back to the beginning of the loop and plays through the loop again.
  • Page 123 Creating Attack & Decay Characteristics for the Looped Portion One potential problem is that the loop repeats at the same level. This is usually acceptable for sustaining instruments (flute, organ, brass, etc.), but is unacceptable for plucked or struck sounds, which decay over time.
  • Page 124 Crossfade Looping The ESI fades between the beginning and end of the loop so that as the end fades out, the beginning fades in. This virtually eliminates the clicks and pops that can occur with other types of looping. Source Data faded in &...
  • Page 125 Clipboard Data: The clipboard will retain data until replaced by other data to be copied, cut, or backed up. This occurs with several ESI operations where you want to be able to undo an action that doesn’t work out as anticipated. Since clipboard data stays intact when you call up another sample, data can be cut or copied from one sample and pasted to another.
  • Page 126 The small x marks the initial position. To move forward through the sound to the next zero crossing, press the right cursor button, as shown in the upper diagram. The ESI will find the first zero crossing on the positive slope after the signal has crossed the designated threshold.
  • Page 127 Zero X Threshold (Set at -30 dB) Slope of Wave Ignored -30dB -96dB Selected Slope of Wave Ignored -30dB -96dB Selected Adjust the zero crossing threshold according to the type of wave you are processing. A setting of -96 dB is most sensitive and can be used for finding the start point of a sound. Settings closer to -30 dB are less sensitive and suited for finding zero-crossings in complex waves.

  • Page 128: Scrub Wheel

    ESI SCRUB WHEEL. Move the wheel slightly to advance slowly through the sound. Move the wheel more to advance quickly through the sound. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 129: Select Sample

    Stereo 44100 Hz 5 Presets 1.6 secs 4. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 1. Setup This submodule lets you turn looping on and off, loop in release on and off and sets various parameters concerning other Digital Processing functions.

  • Page 130: Loop

    If auto truncate does not seem to be working well, try adjusting the zero crossing threshold. 6. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 131: Loop

    Tip: If a sample ends in a loop, playing it backwards will repeat the loop. The sample sionally it will be impossible for either you or the ESI to locate a perfect will not play back prior to the loop start.
  • Page 132 Caution: If there is not enough disk fades in. Instead of butt-splicing the end of the loop back to the memory to back up a sample, the ESI will beginning when forward looping, (or butt-splicing the loop end and not let you Crossfade unless you disable the...

  • Page 133: Truncation

    3. Truncate The Truncate operation shortens a sample's length by trimming off individual samples from the beginning and/or end. Truncation is most often used to remove unneeded portions of a sample to conserve memory, but it can also be used to change instrument characteristics such as removing the attack from a plucked string note or isolating a particular section of a sample.
  • Page 134 Copying does not affect the original sample. The clipboard will retain this data until replaced by something else to be copied, cut, or backed up. COPY secs samples Start: 0.00 00001 End: 1.61 57881 Size: 1.61 57881 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 135: Cut Region

    5. Cut Portions of a sample can be cut, copied, and pasted to other samples, or the samples from which they came. The Cut function removes a section of a sample, and stores the cut portion in a special part of memory called Region the clipboard.

  • Page 136: Paste Region

    Paste Offset point so that it falls on positive zero-crossing point in the waveform. Select Dest Sample 4. Specify the paste point on line two as an offset (in samples) relative to the beginning of the sample, then press ENTER. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 137 PASTE secs samples Offset 0.00 000001 Select Location 5. Select the Paste Mode. Choose whether to insert or mix the clip- board contents at the point selected in step three, then press ENTER. PASTE secs samples Tip: Use the Copy Sample function Offset 1.06 33943 (Sample Management, 5) to paste the...
  • Page 138 Source Amount: 100% Crossfade Size XFADE MIX Source Amount: 50% 8. Press ENTER to perform the paste. 9. If you are not satisfied with the paste, or want to compare before and after, proceed to Digital Processing, Undo (9). ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 139: Digital Tools I

    7. Digital This submodule contains several additional numbered functions. These are extremely useful utilities for manipulating samples. The following is a short description of each function. Tools I 0. Sample Calculator: Calculates and displays the optimum pitch to sample rate ratios for single cycle loops at the desired pitch. 1.

  • Page 140: Taper

    Tip: The left and right cursor buttons Start: 0.00 000000 will change the start and end points so that they fall on positive zero-crossing points in End: 3.13 137873 the waveform. Size: 3.13 137873 TAPER Start Amount: 0.00dB End Amount: -96dB Type: Linear ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 141: Gain Change

    Caution: When using Taper Gain, avoid 5. Move the cursor to the parameter to be selected, select the clipping the signal with too much gain. The desired value(s) with the Data Entry Control and press ENTER. Normalize display in the Gain Change The sample will be tapered between the selected start and end points submodule can be used as a sample with the type of curve selected.
  • Page 142 3.13 137873 The display will show the current gain change points, which are the end points of the current sample. After pressing ENTER, the ESI computes the amount of gain change necessary to achieve normalization or 0 dB headroom. 5. Select the desired boost or cut with the Data Entry Control and press ENTER.

  • Page 143: Reverse Section

    3. Reverse Section Reverses all or part of a sample. 1. Activate Digital Processing module. 2. Select Digital Tools I (7), Reverse Section (3). 3. If the current sample is stereo, the following screen appears. Select the left side, right side, or both sides (stereo), then press ENTER.

  • Page 144: Left <-> Right

    Removes the DC component from a sample, centering the waveform around the zero axis. 1. Activate Digital Processing module. 2. Select Digital Tools I (7), DC Filter (6). The ESI immediately begins scanning the current sample for DC offset. DC FILTER Scanning...

  • Page 145: Sample Integrity

    2. Select Digital Tools I (7), Sample Integrity (7). The display shows: FIX SAMPLES Fix all samples? Y/N 3. Press ENTER to fix samples in the bank. The ESI will only modify loops which are in need of repair. Digital Processing...

  • Page 146: Digital Tools Ii

    2-D space. Several pre-computed paths as well as 10 user-definable paths are available. 8. Sonic Enhancer: The Sonic Enhancer adds brilliance and "cut" to a sample making it stand out in a mix. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 147: Sample Rate Convert

    0. Sample Rate Convert Sample Rate Conversion can be used for saving memory, increasing the upward transposition range of a sound, or exactly matching the sample rate to a multiple of the sounds frequency for perfect single cycle loop (use the sample calculator). Sampling at a high sample rate provides better frequency response than sampling at a slower rate, but uses up more memory.

  • Page 148: Digital Tuning

    DIGITAL TUNING Tuning: +1200 cents Size: 209882 Loop Size: 69930.00 4. If you are not satisfied with the resulting re-tuning, or want to compare before and after, proceed to Digital Processing, Undo (9). ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 149: Compressor

    2. Compressor The Digital Compressor is a digital (non-realtime) equivalent of an analog dynamic range compressor with attack and release times, adjust- able threshold, adjustable ratio, and three modes of operation. 1. Activate Digital Processing module. 2. Select Digital Tools II (8), Digital Compressor (2). 3.
  • Page 150 Determines how quickly the gain will be turned down. The attack time is variable from 0 to 999 milliseconds. Rel (Release Time) Determines how quickly the gain will be turned up. The release time is variable from 0 to 999 milliseconds. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 151 100% Only signal levels ABOVE the Threshold % will be affected 10:1 Threshold by the compressor. Above 100% Signal levels ABOVE as well as BELOW the Threshold % 10:1 Threshold will be affected by the compressor. Center 100% Only signal levels BELOW the Threshold Threshold % will be affected 10:1...
  • Page 152 Noise reduction will reduce low levels even further in the assumption that low levels are noise. Set the controls as follows: Threshold: Below, approx. 30% Ratio: approximately 0.7:1 Attack Time: approximately 100 mS Release Time: approximately 100 mS ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 153: Parametric Equalizer

    3. Parametric Equalizer Parametric EQ allows you adjust the individual parameters of the filter. Boost and Cut controls “how much” of the signal will be boosted or cut. Center Frequency sets the center frequency to be boosted or cut, and the Bandwidth control sets the width of the band to be boosted or cut.

  • Page 154: Time Compression

    5. If you are not satisfied with the resulting Time Compression or want to compare before and after, proceed to Digital Processing, Undo (9). Tip: If you are not happy with the results of Time Compression, simply Undo, then choose another algorithm. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 155: Pitch Change

    5. Pitch Change This function is the exact opposite of Time Compression in that it changes the pitch of a sample without changing the time. The maximum amount of pitch change is ±1200 cents (± one octave). 1. Activate Digital Processing module. 2.

  • Page 156: Transform Multiply

    Digital memory to perform its thousands of Processing, Undo (9). calculations. If you get a memory error, load just the two samples into the ESI and try again. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 157: Doppler/Pan

    7. Doppler/Pan This function allows you to apply either a pre-programmed or user- definable sound path to a mono sample or the left side of a stereo sample. The result is a stereo sample with pitch shifted and left-right gains adjusted according to the path. The sound can move dramatically forward-back and left-right in a 2-D space in front of the listener.
  • Page 158 Off. 9. Press ENTER to begin processing the sample. The display shows: DOPPLER/PAN Processing path... 10. If you are not satisfied with the resulting Doppler/Pan or want to compare before and after, use Digital Processing, Undo (9). ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 159 Path Management Screen Sound paths may optionally be edited and processed in a number of ways. If the right cursor is pressed in the initial Doppler/Pan screen, the Path Manager screen appears: PATH MANAGER Path: user path 1 Function: reverse The path may be selected in this screen as well.
  • Page 160 OFFSET PATH Tip: The “X” offset varies the L-R X offset: +265 position. The “Y” offset varies the front-back position. Y offset: Enter X offset Press ENTER to add the offsets to the path. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 161 Clear Path This function clears all x,y and time values to zero. If this “zero” path were used to process a sample, the sound would not move. When Clear Path is selected, the following screen will appear: CLEAR PATH Clearing path: user path 2 Are You Sure? Y/N Press YES to clear the path.
  • Page 162 Management screen. When the path is ready to apply to the sample, press the left cursor button while in the Path Management screen to return to the main Doppler/Pan screen. Press ENTER again to move ahead to the Path Parameters screen and once more to process the sample. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 163: Sonic Enhancer

    8. Sonic The Sonic Enhancer adds brilliance and “cut” to a sample, making it stand out in a mix. This effect is especially effective on vocal samples to which it adds sheen, clarity and presence. The Sonic Enhancer works by Enhancer generating new harmonics related to the source material.

  • Page 164: Undo

    Other- wise, press ENTER. The original sample will be restored, the processed sample will be stored in the clipboard, and the ESI will return to the Module Identifier.
  • Page 165 SCSI bus. If you have only removable hard disks installed and remove the one containing the backup data, the ESI may become confused. The ESI will select a fixed hard disk as the backup drive, if available. If you have only removable disks and still want to use Undo, insert one removable disk in the drive.
  • Page 166 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 167: Preset Definition 0. Realtime Controls

    Preset Definition 0. Realtime Controls ....161 1. Load Zone ........ 166 2. Edit Assignment ....... 169 3. Erase Zone ....... 172 4. Copy Zone ........ 173 5. Crossfade/Switch ..... 176 6. Velocity Switch/Preset Link ..183 7. Pitch Bend Range ..... 184 8.
  • Page 168 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 169: Preset Definition

    For example, in order to have the pitch wheel of your keyboard control the pitch of the ESI, it must be assigned to pitch. Set the Pitch Control to be the source and the pitch as the destination. To make the right wheel control the amount of vibrato (LFO to pitch), set Mod Control as the source and LFO->...
  • Page 170 Mod. Control to VCF cutoff 2. Mod Control and then assigned Pressure Control to VCF 3. Pressure Control cutoff, the ESI would automatically turn off 4. Pedal Control the mod. control to VCF cutoff routing. 5. MIDI A Control 6.
  • Page 171 (such as during fadeouts). Assign VCA level to a MIDI controller for pseudo-automated mixdown effects when driving the ESI from a sequencer. The realtime control source adds to the initial amount as programmed in Dynamic Processing, VCA (2). For this destination to have any effect, the initial level of the zone must be set to a value less than 100%.
  • Page 172 10. VCF Note On Q: This destination allows you to control Q with a continuous controller. Since this is a “Note-On” destination, the position of the controller is accessed only at the time the note is first turned on (key pressed). ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 173 01). The ESI will stop decrementing at the lowest numbered preset. 5. Move the cursor to line two and repeat steps 3 and 4 to map additional controllers. 6. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. Preset Definition...

  • Page 174: Load Zone

    6. Select the preset that contains the zone to be loaded, then press ENTER. LOAD ZONE from P00 Current Preset Select Source Preset Sample 1 Sample 2 Sample 3 Sample 4 ZONE The zone contains samples as well as dynamic processing parameters. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 175 7. Select whether you will load the primary, secondary, or both samples from the zone, then press ENTER. Caution: If the source zone contains no secondary samples and you select both, LOAD ZONE from loading the zone will overwrite both primary P00 both and secondary samples in the destination preset.
  • Page 176 Select Dest Preset If you select an empty preset, you will be given a chance to rename the preset that the ESI just created. Choose the characters you want to change with the left and right cursor buttons. Select the desired charac- ters by using the ten key pad, Data Entry Control, and/or keyboard.

  • Page 177: Edit Assignment

    3. If there are both primary and secondary samples, select which one you want to edit, then press ENTER. If there are only primary or secondary samples, the ESI will automatically go to step four. EDIT ASSIGNMENT Tip: To find out which samples are...
  • Page 178 After pressing ENTER the ESI will edit the zone range and the original key, and then return to the Module Identifier.
  • Page 179 3. If there are both primary and secondary samples, select Both, then press ENTER. If there are only primary or secondary samples, the ESI will automatically go to step four. 4. Select the lowest note of the desired zone using the Data Entry Control, then press ENTER.

  • Page 180: Erase Zone

    2. Select Erase Zone (3). 3. If there are both primary and secondary samples, select the one you want to edit, then press ENTER. If there are only primary or only secondary samples, the ESI automatically proceeds to step 4. ERASE ZONE P00 pri Select pri/sec/both 4.

  • Page 181: Copy Zone

    The second line shows the note being played on the keyboard (or scrolled with the Data Entry Control). After selecting a note, the third line displays the primary sample number, and the fourth line displays the secondary sample number associated with the note on line two. 6.
  • Page 182 Select Dest Preset If you select an empty preset, upon pressing ENTER you will be given a chance to rename the preset that the ESI just created. Choose the characters you want to change with the left and right cursor buttons.
  • Page 183 This step allows you to copy primary sample(s) into secondary locations and visa versa. If in step four you selected both samples, the ESI will skip this step, as these samples are always copied into both primary and secondary sample slots of the destina- tion preset.

  • Page 184: Crossfade/Switch

    Data Entry Control). After selecting a note, the first line displays the zone’ s crossfade status, the third line displays the primary sample number, and the fourth line displays the secondary sample number associated with the note on line two. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 185 4. Select the highest key of the zone to be crossfaded or switched, then press ENTER. The ESI defaults to the highest note of the sample that contains the previously specified low note. You can select a different high key in two ways. The Data Entry Control scrolls through the highest key of each sample on the keyboard.
  • Page 186 • Fade in according to the realtime control wheel (Realtime Crossfade) • Switch in according to the realtime footswitch (Realtime Switch) After pressing ENTER the ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 7. For Positional Crossfade, select whether the primary or secon- dary sample will increase in level as you play higher on the keyboard, then press ENTER.
  • Page 187 4. Select the highest key of the zone to be crossfaded or switched, then press ENTER. The ESI defaults to the highest note of the sample that contains the previously specified low note. You can select a different high key in two ways.
  • Page 188 Sec: 96 to 127 8. Set the Primary and Secondary Velocity Ranges and press ENTER. After pressing ENTER, the ESI returns to the Module Identifier. • Crosswitch between Four Layers in Two Presets The following example shows how to make a four way velocity crosswitch using a linked preset.
  • Page 189 PRESET #1 Velocity PRESET Linked to Preset #1 Velocity 1. Press the Preset Definition key. 2. Select Submodule Crossfade/Switch (5). 3. Define the zone as described in the previous example. 4. Select Velocity Ranges crossfade from the seven choices, then press ENTER.
  • Page 190 0 to Sec: 33 to 8. Set the Primary and Secondary Velocity Ranges and press ENTER. After pressing ENTER, the ESI returns to the Module Identifier. 9. Press Preset Definition to deactivate the module and return to the Preset Selection screen.

  • Page 191: Velocity Switch/Preset Link

    002 and 008 will play as well. When preset 002 is played, preset 008 will also play. The polyphony of the ESI will vary according to the voice architecture of each preset in the stack. If two presets are linked to themselves, forming a loop, those two presets will play in unison up to the channel limit of the ESI.

  • Page 192: Pitch Bend Range

    ±12 Semitones Select a Pitch Range 4. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI returns to the Module Identifier. This submodule contains two completely unrelated functions: • Portamento is a smooth gliding of pitch from note to note rather 8.

  • Page 193: Effects

    ATTACK TRAJECTORY Pri: logarithmic Sec: linear 5. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 9. Effects Effects Programmed in the Preset This function is available only when the Turbo Option Kit is installed in the ESI.
  • Page 194 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 195: Dynamic Processing Background

    Dynamic Processing Background ......189 0. Select Zone....... 196 1. Setup ........ 197 2. VCA ......... 198 3. VCF ........200 4. LFO ........202 5. Auxiliary Envelope ..204 6. Velocity To ....... 205 7. Keyboard Mode ....207 8.
  • Page 196 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 197: Dynamic Processing

    MIDI B Pressure This block diagram illustrates the general architecture of the ESI. The dotted lines show how realtime controllers, envelopes and LFOs can be routed to modulate the sound. Each key on the keyboard can contain two zones (primary and second- ary, just like samples), and each of these can have completely different sets of analog parameters applied to it.
  • Page 198 Select a Submodule Use the left and right cursor buttons to select: Off, Pri, Sec or Both. Quick Zone remains on until you turn it off or until the ESI is rebooted. Filter Background The ESI has 19 different filter types. These ultra powerful filters were originally developed for the Morpheus Z-plane synthesizer.
  • Page 199 One way to represent complex waveforms is to use a chart with fre- quency on one axis and amplitude on the other. Each vertical line of the chart represents one sine wave at a specific amplitude. 160 360 720 1440 2880 Frequency Each vertical line of the chart represents one sine wave at a specific amplitude.
  • Page 200 The more poles the steeper the slope, which in turn affects the sound. In general, the 2-pole filter will have a buzzier sound and the 4-pole filter has the classic low pass resonant filter sound. ESI's 6-pole low pass filters create a tight, modern sound.

  • Page 201: Parametric Filters

    (Bandwidth and Frequency are combined into the Cutoff parameter in ESI's EQ filters.) The Boost/Cut parameter (Q on the ESI filters) either boosts or cuts the frequencies within the selected band by a specified amount. Frequencies not included in the selected band are left unaltered.
  • Page 202 Cutoff parameter controls morphing on certain filters. The Q parameter can control various parameters such as boost/cut and mouth cavity size and of course, resonance or Q. ESI Filter Types 2-pole Lowpass Lowpass filter with 12dB/octave rolloff and Q control.
  • Page 203 Cutoff frequency low (less than 100) for best effect. Q has no effect on this filter. ESI/E3X Lowpass This is the original ESI-32 lowpass filter. It has been included to maintain backward compatibility. Banks created on the ESI-32 will use this filter by default.

  • Page 204: Select Zone

    Press ENTER. If the preset contains only primary or secondary samples, the ESI will bypass this screen and proceed immediately to step 4. SELECT ZONE...

  • Page 205: Setup

    After pressing ENTER, the zone selection process is complete and the ESI returns to the Module Identifier. 1. Setup This module establishes the controls for several functions, including tuning, delay before onset of a note, and chorus on/off.

  • Page 206: Vca

    • Disable Side: turns off playback of either the left or right side of a stereo sample within the selected zone. 6. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. The Voltage Controlled Amplifier (VCA) submodule contains two pages.
  • Page 207 • Rel: (Release) varies the release time from 0 to 163.69 seconds. Percussion 5. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the The amplitude envelope shape gives Module Identifier. important clues to the ear about what type of sound is being produced.

  • Page 208: Vcf

    With negative tracking, a sample becomes progressively less bright as you play higher up in the zone. This is useful with some bass sounds, and to even out frequency response variations between samples when multi- sampling. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 209 Initial Cutoff Freq. ZONE Keyboard Tracking varies the filter cutoff frequency as you play up and down the keyboard. With 0.00 tracking, a sample’s timbre remains constant over the selected zone. This generally gives the most realistic synthesizer and instrument sounds. With positive tracking, the sample’ s timbre becomes brighter as you play higher up in the zone.

  • Page 210: Lfo

    • Rel: (Release) varies the release time from 0 to 163.69 seconds. 6. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI returns to the Module Identifier. A Low Frequency Oscillator (LFO) is a wave which repeats at a slow 4.
  • Page 211 • LFO -> Pan: cyclically varies the placement of the audio output of a zone within the stereo field. 6. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI returns to the Module Identifier. Dynamic Processing...

  • Page 212: Auxiliary Envelope

    Aux Attack: 0.00s Hold: 0.00s Decay: 0.00s Sus:100% Rel: 1.04s The envelope parameters are identical to the VCF and VCA envelopes. 5. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI returns to the Module Identifier. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 213: Velocity To

    6. Velocity Velocity data from your MIDI keyboard, sequencer or other controller can control any or all of nine different parameters, as selected on three pages in this submodule. 1. Activate Dynamic Processing module. 2. Select Velocity To (6). 3. Move the cursor to the parameter(s) to be adjusted, and select the desired value(s) with the Data Entry Control.
  • Page 214 Progressively higher negative values move the start point backward, beginning at the end of the sample. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 215: Keyboard Mode

    Progressively higher negative values decrease the envelope depth as you play more forcefully. 6. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. This submodule alters the way the keyboard processes the notes (not the 7.

  • Page 216: Realtime Control Enable

    Assigning a drum sound to a range consisting of several keys provides an easier target than being forced to hit a single key. 4. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 8. Realtime This function lets you to exempt specific realtime control destinations within a zone from being affected by the realtime controls.

  • Page 217: Channel Assignment

    CONTROLLERS ENABLE VCA Level: Attack: Pan: 6. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI will return to the Module Identifier. 9. Channel This function lets you to restrict the number of output channels assigned to a zone. The “Assign Group” system allows you to assign a certain number of output channels and designate a submix to each zone.
  • Page 218 A. Select the zone for the open high hat and assign it to one of the Mono groups (Mono A). Assign the closed hi hat to the same group (Mono A). B. Select the zone for the rest of the drums and assign it to the Poly 4 Assignment. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 219 3. Move the cursor down to the third line and select an Assignment Group. 4. Move the cursor down to the last line and select a submix. 5. Press ENTER to exit the submodule. The ESI returns to the Module Identifier. Dynamic Processing...
  • Page 220 ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 221 Effects ........215 Effects Parameters ....230 Using SCSI ......236 Disk Drive Compatibility..240 Keyboard Character Chart ... 241 ESI Menu Map ..... 242 MIDI Key Number Chart ..243 MIDI Implementation Chart 244 Specifications ....... 245 Error Codes ......246 Troubleshooting ....
  • Page 222 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 223: Appendix

    ESI TURBO Effects The ESI Turbo option adds exciting new capabilities to your ESI includ- ing: two 24-bit stereo digital effects processors with over 70 effect algorithms; S/PDIF digital I/O for interfacing with other digital equip- ment; and two additional pairs of submix outputs which allow external processing of specific sounds.

  • Page 224: The Effects Sends

    This allows a mix of 100% effect. slightly different “sonic space” which can create an airy, open sound. ESI uses this basic concept, but works in a slightly different manner. There are 4 effects busses: Main, Sub 1, Sub 2, and Sub 3. Zones or MIDI channels (you determine which), can be directed to one of the four busses.
  • Page 225 The submix bus selection can be programmed by Zone in the Dynamic Processing, Channel Assignment screen. These settings can be overwrit- ten in the Master by changing the submix setting from “Z” (Zone) to “Main, Sub 1, 2 or 3” which routes the preset on that MIDI channel to the selected submix bus.
  • Page 226 Note: Effect parameters are described later in the appendix beginning on page 231 HF Damping: FxB==>FxA: 6. Press the Right Cursor key again to go to the Effect Sends screen. 7. Set the effect sends amounts to your preference. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 227: Master Effects

    PRESET EFFECT A Sends: Main: 15% Sub2: Sub1: Sub3: 8. Press the Escape key to go back to the main Effects screen. If you want to adjust the Effect B settings, select Preset Effect B (1) and adjust just as you did for the “A” effect. 9.
  • Page 228 Master effects settings to be used. 5. Press Enter to lock in the change. 6. Select Effects (4) again to adjust the Master Effects. The main Effect screen will appear. 7. Select Master Effect A (0). The following screen will appear. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 229 MASTER EFFECT A Effect: Warm Hall 8. Press the Right Cursor key. The Effect Parameters screen will appear. Set the effects parameters to your preference. MASTER EFFECT A Decay Time: HF Damping: FxB==>FxA: 9. Press the Right Cursor key again to go to the Effect Sends screen. Set the Effect Send amounts to your preference.
  • Page 230 Data Entry Control or INC/DEC keys. 7. To assign another zone, press Escape and go back to the “Select Zone” screen to select a new zone. Then change the submix assignment for the new zone. 8. Save the Bank! ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 231 Assign FX Sends to Effects MASTER-4, Effects FX Sends Hall 1 Select Zone Routing Main 15% Effect Sub 1 0% MIX C=01 Volume=127 Sub 2 0% MASTER Sub 3 0% MIDI Mix Screen zMMM M123 MMMM MMMM Submix Defined FX Sends Echo1 in the Zone Main 0%...

  • Page 232: Using The Effects Channel Settings In Multi Mode

    5. Set the channel to the MIDI channel you want to be the effects control channel. The Effects settings programmed in the Preset on this selected channel will be used for ALL the other MIDI channels. 6. Press Enter to save the Master Settings. ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 233: Effects Bypass

    Effects Bypass This control bypasses the effects, turning them off. This feature is useful if you are using external effects at the mixing console and want to turn the effects Off for all presets. To Bypass the Effects: 1.Press the Master key. The LED illuminates and the Memory Statistics screen appears.
  • Page 234 Distorted Chorus Bright Plate Distorted Double BBall Court Gymnasium Cavern Concert 9 Concert 10 Pan Reverse Gate Gate 2 Gate Pan Concert 11 Medium Concert Large Concert Large Concert Pan Canyon DelayVerb 1-3 DelayVerb 4-5 Pan DelayVerb 6-9 ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 235: General Descriptions

    Reverb Reverberation is a simulation of a natural space such as a room or hall. The reverb effects simulate various halls, rooms and reverberation plates. In addition, there are several other reverb effects such as Gated Reverbs, Multi Tap (early reflections), Delay and Panning effects. There are two adjustable parameters on the reverb effects, Decay Time and High Frequency Damping.

  • Page 236: Stereo Flanger

    Mixing the delayed and original signals results in multiple frequency cancellations called a comb filter. Since the flanger is a type of filter, it works best with harmonically rich sounds. FREQUENCY (log) ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 237: Stereo Delay

    Flanging was originally created using two tape recorders playing identi- cal recordings. By exactly synchronizing the two decks and then slowing the speed of one by grasping the tape reel flanges, the flanging effect was born. The flanger is a stereo device consisting of two separate delay lines controlled by a single set of controls.

  • Page 238: Effects Parameters

    5. Press the Right Cursor key. The Effect Parameters screen appears. PRESET EFFECT A Decay Time: HF Damping: FxB==>FxA: 6. Adjust the Decay Time as desired. 7. Press the Preset Definition key to return to the main menu. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 239 HF Damping FX A High frequency energy tends to fade away first as a sound is dissipated in a room. This parameter allows you adjust the amount of high fre- Parameters quency damping and thus change the characteristics of the room. Rooms with smooth, hard surfaces are more reflective and have less high frequency damping.
  • Page 240 Effect A down to zero. This sends ALL of Effect B through Effect A. 12. Play the keyboard and you should hear the B Effect running through Effect A. This patch is shown in the illustration above. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 241 Feedback Amount FX B The Chorus and Flange effects have a controllable feedback loop after the delay element. Feeding back a small amount of the signal intensifies Parameters the effect by creating multiple cancellations or images. 1. Press the Preset Definition key. The LED illuminates and the Preset Definition menu appears.
  • Page 242 PRESET EFFECT B Feedback: LFO Rate: Delay Time: 400ms 6. Move the Cursor down to the third line and adjust the Delay Time as desired. 7. Press the Preset Definition key to return to the main menu. ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 243 FX Amounts The Effects Amount controls the percentage of effected (wet) signal to un-effected (dry) signal. This function would be analogous to the effects return on a mixing console. The effects amount for each of the four stereo submix outputs can be individually controlled. 1.

  • Page 244: Using Scsi

    • Compatibility: Since SCSI is an industry standard, equipment from many different manufacturers can be linked to work together. • Expandability: Up to eight SCSI devices can be linked together (the ESI counts as one SCSI device on the chain). The SCSI Bus Tip: Use the “Mount Drives” utility...
  • Page 245 The ESI is shipped with termination power On with the termination In addition, devices left on when the cable is resistors left in place. This assumes that the ESI will be placed at one end unplugged may not respond properly until of the SCSI chain.
  • Page 246 The computer should normally be positioned at one end of the chain and the ESI at the other. The SCSI chain is properly terminated at each end by the computer and the ESI. Devices in the middle of the chain should not have termination resistors installed.
  • Page 247 ESI version 2.0 software adds arbitration to the SCSI protocol so that multiple “Master” devices can share the bus without a system crash. Two ESI's (an EIIIX, an e-64, or an E-IV) can share the same sound library, without having to duplicate the storage media.

  • Page 248: Disk Drive Compatibility

    “Try before you buy!”. Be sure to check the revision number Chart on the drive in question to make sure it will work with the ESI. A listed drive with a lower revision number than the one shown may not work.
  • Page 249 Keyboard Character < > Tip: The shaded area represents a standard five octave keyboard range. ¥ -> <- AVAILABLE CHARACTERS. Banks, drives, samples and presets can be named or renamed using these characters. Select the characters using the ten key pad, data entry knob, and keyboard. You can also use the up cursor to insert spaces and the down cursor to delete spaces.

  • Page 250: Keyboard Character Chart

    MASTER/ SAMPLE PRESET DIGTIAL PRESET DYNAMIC GLOBAL MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT PROCESSING DEFINITION PROCESSING 1. Master Tune 0. Select Sample 1. Load Preset 0. Select Sample 0. Realtime Controls 0. Select Zone 2. Rename Bank 1. Load Sample 2. Rename Preset 1. Setup 1.

  • Page 251: Esi Menu Map

    MIDI Key Numbers MIDI KEY NUMBERS. The shaded area represents a standard five octave keyboard range. Appendix...

  • Page 252: Midi Key Number Chart

    System :Clock Real Time :Commands :Local On/Off Messages :Active Sense :Reset Notes: Pan 0=hard left 127=hard right Bank Select: Bn 00 00 20 bb Cn pp (n= MIDI channel, bb = bank#, pp = program in bank) ESI Operation Manual...

  • Page 253: Specifications

    Memory ......4 MB standard, 128 MB maximum Note: Use only 72-pin, low profile SIMMs in the ESI (4 MB, 16 MB or 64 MB). Outputs ......4 individual 1/4" unbalanced, polyphonic If different size SIMMs are used, the larger...

  • Page 254: Error Codes

    Most of the error codes explanations in the ESI are readily apparent. Drive Not Formatted! Trying to access a hard drive that has not been formatted for the ESI. FD Data Lost Error! Bad disk or floppy drive.
  • Page 255 Not Enough Memory Trying to load in a bank that is too large. Preset Memory Full! Not enough preset memory for the operation. Sample Memory Full! Not enough sample memory for the operation. Sample Overload! A/D converter headroom has been exceeded. SCSI Bank Locked! Trying to write to a locked bank.

  • Page 256: Troubleshooting

    This section explains some of the problems you might possibly encoun- Troubleshooting ter while working with the ESI. Before assuming that your ESI is faulty, check the following list which details the corrective action you can take yourself without having to call a service center. If you have any doubts...
  • Page 257 Disable side function is turned on. Solution: Turn disable side function (Dynamic Processing, 1) off in the zone. Problem: Audible hum in system when ESI is connected. Cause: There is a ground loop present in the audio system. Solution: Find and eliminate the ground loop.

  • Page 258: Midi Problems

    Since MIDI setups can be quite complex, make sure that you have all the MIDI parameters (on the ESI and external MIDI devices) set correctly before you become daunted. On the ESI, MIDI parameters are located in the Master/Global module, (9. MIDI, 2. MIDI Globals).
  • Page 259 Solution: Try using a shorter SCSI cable (maximum cable length is about 12 feet) and check that no two devices have the same ID number. Problem: The ESI display reads “SCSI Error!”. There is an external device connected to SCSI. Cause: Two SCSI devices may have the same ID number or an external SCSI device does not have power.

  • Page 260: Warranty

    Deterioration or damage of the cabinet. • Damages occurring during any shipment of the ESI for any reason. • An ESI that has in any way been modified by anyone other than E-mu Systems, Inc.

  • Page 261: Index

    Symbol erasing 58, 60, 63 Index 110V / 220V Operation 8 exporting 59 2-pole filters 192, 194 loading 23, 29 2nd order filters 194 loading from a hard disk 31 4-pole filters 192, 194 loading MIDI 76, 81 4th order filters 194 locking 60, 63 6-pole filters 192, 194 management 54...
  • Page 262 50, 127 formatting a floppy 29 cutoff frequency 35, 191, 200 formatting read/write optical 66 changing 36 hard 9, 14 status 60, 64 utilities 60 distortion effect 229 distortion specification 245 doppler/pan 149 doubling 228 ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 263 172 dual tap delay 229 error codes 246 dynamic processing 11, 35, 189 escape button 21 dynamic range ESI turbo option 215 adjusting 72 ESI/E3X lowpass filter 195 compression 142 expansion, dynamic range 142 expansion 142 export functions (bank) 59...
  • Page 264 131 Akai 83 looping Emax II 83, 89 a sample 48, 114, 123 functions 83 crossfade 116, 124 increment/decrement buttons 16 low freq. oscillator 39, 202, 233 increment/decrement presets 165 lowpass filters 36, 191, 194 ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 265 78 bank select 244 offset path, doppler 152 channel 78, 221, 222 options connection 8 ESI turbo 215 continuous controller number 79 hard disk interleave 66 global 76, 78 turbo 8 implementation chart 244 original key, changing 198...
  • Page 266 135 primary and secondary layers 15 right channel, sample setup 99 processors, dual effects 216 RMS, compressor mode 142 program See also: Preset room reverb programs 227 change, MIDI 23, 78 routings, submix bus 217 effects 227 ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 267 236 assigning to keyboard keys 33 connecting a drive 9, 236 calculator 131 Emax II connection 89 current 15, 33 ESI SCSI ID 61 data word size 103 ID number 9, 236 definition 11 problems 239 dump, MIDI 103...
  • Page 268 47 tune master 57 warranty 252 sonic enhancer 155 waveform, LFO 202 tuning weight 245 alternate template 197 wet/dry mix effects sends 216 digital 138, 140 dynamic setup 197 ESI to other instruments 32 turbo option 8 ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 269 Z-plane filter 193 zero crossing 22, 118 zero X threshold 118, 122 Zip drives, formatting 66 zone 12, 34, 189 copying 173 definition 12 erasing 172 level 198 loading a 166 quick 190 selecting 12, 196 specifying 34 submix busses by 222 transposing 171 Appendix...
  • Page 270 ESI Operation Manual...
  • Page 271 Warranty card in 3. How did you first hear about this product? If through advertising, what magazine? your ESI box. 4. What are the most important features to you on this product? The least important? 5. Briefly describe your studio or setup. Do you own a computer that you will be using with this piece of gear, if so, what brand? 6.
  • Page 272 Fold Here AFFIX PROPER POSTAGE HERE E-mu Systems, Ltd. 1600 Green Hills Road Suite 6, Adam Ferguson House Eskmills Industrial Park P.O. Box 660015 Musselburgh, East Lothian Scotts Valley, CA 95067 Scotland, United Kingdom EH21 7PQ...

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