Introduction - Korg WAVEDRUM Owner's Manual

Introduction

Main features
Revolutionary synthesis technology
The WAVEDRUM generates sound by detecting the
sound of your strike via the head and rim sensors, and
processing this audio source by DSP (Digital Signal Pro-
cessing) sound synthesis technology to create unique
sounds. At the same time, a PCM sound source is also
played using your strike as the trigger.
Using this combination of methods, the WAVEDRUM
produces a rich variety of percussion sounds that give
you an extremely wide range of freedom for perfor-
mance expression. By using subtle motions of your fin-
gers or hand to strike, rub, or scratch the WAVEDRUM,
or by playing it using sticks, mallets, or brushes, you can
obtain a high degree of expressive and dynamic range
that rivals that of acoustic drums or percussion instru-
ments.
Unique sounds generated by 36 different algorithms
The WAVEDRUM uses DSP technology to carry out a
variety of software synthesis methods including analog,
additive, non-linear, and physical modeling, and com-
bines these sounds to create the final output sound. Such
combinations are called "algorithms," and the WAVE-
DRUM contains 36 different single-size and double-size
algorithms. By specifying different algorithms you can
create completely new sounds that can be produced only
by the WAVEDRUM, as well as a variety of instrumental
sounds or sounds of nature.
200 different PCM instruments for head and rim
The PCM instruments (PCM sound sources produce a
rich variety of sounds in addition to the algorithms. Pro-
grams that use a single-size algorithm allow you to
freely assign a different algorithm and PCM instrument
to the head and the rim, giving you a very broad array of
sounds. Programs that use a double-size algorithm are
optimized for simulating acoustic instruments such as a
snare, djembe, or cajon; within the algorithm, these pro-
grams analyze your performance in realtime, and based
on this analysis control the PCM instrument to create
natural response that cannot be obtained from a conven-
tional PCM sound generator.
4
100 preset programs, 100 user programs
There are 100 built-in preset programs that combine per-
cussion, drums, and sound effects in complex ways that
can produce completely different sounds according to
your playing technique. Programs that you edit can be
saved in the 100 user programs.
Live mode
You can register twelve frequently-used programs (four
programs x three banks) in buttons 1–4 for immediate
recall. This is convenient for live performances.
100 loop phrases
The built-in 100 loop phrases cover a broad range of
genres and tempos, allowing you to play along for a one-
person jam session.
AUX IN connector
The AUX IN connector lets you connect another WAVE-
DRUM unit, an audio device, or an external sound module,
and play along with that audio source.
Lightweight and compact design
The WAVEDRUM features a lightweight and compact
design for comfortable playing on your lap as well as
easy portability. You can also perform with it attached to
a stand (sold separately) for stand-up performance (Per-
cussion Stand ST-WD) or a commercially-available
snare stand.