Introduction - Zoom RhythmTrak RT-223 Operation Manual

Thank you for selecting the ZOOM RhythmTrak RT-223 (hereafter simply called the "RT-223").
The RT-223 is a sophisticated product with the following features.
• Highly compact drum/bass machine
The RT-223 is small enough to fit in the pocket of
a guitar case. But it has enough muscle to play a
full rhythm accompaniment with super realistic
drum and bass sounds. You can use it as a
personal metronome during practice, or as your
rhythm section during a live performance and
when making a demo tape.
• Perfectly simple operation
Even if you have never used a drum machine or
sequencer before, you will feel comfortable with
the RT-223 right away.
• Great selection of preset patterns
The RT-223 can store 511 different patterns
(including patterns that you have created
yourself). Out of the box, it comes with a wide
choice of representative patterns that will you get
started in no time.
• Program the accompaniment to an
entire song
You can line up multiple patterns in the intended
order to create the rhythm accompaniment for a
full song. Besides step input, where you specify
elements such as pattern number, volume, and
tempo one by one, the RT-223 also supports the
innovative FAST input method developed by
ZOOM.
• Groove play mode lets you play patterns
like a DJ
Assigning patterns to the pads on the top panel
lets you change patterns simply by tapping the
pads. Great for live performances and for DJ use.
• Create your original kits
The RT-223 comes with built-in drum kits and
bass programs for a variety of musical genres.
What's more, you can create your own drum kits
by combining drum sounds at will.
• Two types of effects
The drum kit/bass program sound can be
processed by two kinds of effects (COMP EQ and
REVERB). The REVERB effect allows adjusting
4

Introduction

the effect depth for each drum sound individually.
• Jam function for selecting patterns with
a foot switch
Connect a foot switch to have even more control
over play start/stop and switching patterns. While
playing your instrument, you can set fill-ins or
b r e a k s o r r e t u r n t o t h e m a i n t h e m e a f t e r
improvising for any length. This is great for those
lively jam sessions.
• Built-in metronome function
The metronome is convenient for scale practice or
rhythm practice. In addition to the standard beat,
you can also use mixed beat settings such as
5-beat and 7-beat.
• Input jack for connecting an external
sound source
Connect an instrument processed with a multi-
effect such as the ZOOM GFX-1 and mix it with
the RT-223 signal to produce impressive
sounding output.
• Control various functions with a foot
switch
A connected foot switch can be used to start/stop
a pattern or change the tempo while keeping your
hands free. Alternatively, push the foot switch
down to kick a virtual bass drum, or switch
between hi-hat open/close.
• Compatible with MIDI synchronization
The MIDI IN connector allows an external MIDI
keyboard or other device to play the sounds of the
RT-223. It is also possible to synchronize the
R T - 2 2 3 t o t h e M I D I c l o c k f r o m a M I D I
sequencer.
Please take the time to read this manual carefully
so as to get the most out of your RT-223 and to
ensure optimum performance and reliability.
Retain this manual, the warranty card and all
other documentation for future reference.
ZOOM RT-223