Suzuki OMNICHORD OM-108 Owner's Manual
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Suzuki OMNICHORD OM-108 Owner's Manual

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OM-108
Owner's Manual
Thank you for purchasing this unit.
The Omnichord is an electronic musical instrument with an automatic accompaniment function and is equipped with a strumplate.
The Omnichord was created in 1981 with the aim of being an electronic instrument similar to an autoharp.
To take full advantage of your Omnichord and use it safely, be sure to read this manual carefully.
• For safety purposes, please make sure you read "SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" (p.54) and "PRECAUTIONS FOR USE" (p.58) before
using this unit.

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  • Page 1 OM-108 Owner's Manual Thank you for purchasing this unit. The Omnichord is an electronic musical instrument with an automatic accompaniment function and is equipped with a strumplate. The Omnichord was created in 1981 with the aim of being an electronic instrument similar to an autoharp. To take full advantage of your Omnichord and use it safely, be sure to read this manual carefully.

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Table of contents INTRODUCTION Battery level indicator setting ......46 Restoring the factory settings ......48 Features .

  • Page 3: Introduction

    The Omnichord was created in 1981 with the aim of being an electronic instrument similar to an autoharp. Even when the last model bearing the Omnichord name was discontinued, its popularity remained undiminished, and in response to customer demand, Suzuki decided to release the OM-108.

  • Page 4: Names And Functions

    Names and functions Names and functions Top panel a [Master Volume] knob Use this knob to control the volume of entire instrument (p.10). b [Power] button Use this button to turn on/off this unit (p.10). Tips • When using batteries, the Power LED works as a battery level indicator (p.8). c [PATTERN] buttons Use these buttons to select a rhythm pattern (p.19).
  • Page 5 Names and functions g [STRUMPLATE] knobs Use these knobs to adjust the sustain and volume of the strumplate voice (p.17). [Sustain] knob: Use this knob to adjust the sustain level of the strumplate. [Main Volume] knob: Use this knob to adjust the volume of the strumplate (main voice). [Sub Volume] knob: Use this knob to adjust the volume of the strumplate (sub voice).

  • Page 6: Side Panel

    Names and functions Side panel a DC12V/1A jack Use this jack to connect the AC adaptor (sold separately) (p.9). b LINE OUT (MONO) jack Use this jack to output audio to a connected audio device (such as a powered speaker or a mixer) (p.7). c [SPEAKER(ON/OFF)] switch Use this switch to enable/disable the speaker output of this unit when an external audio equipment is connected to the LINE OUT (MONO) jack (p.7).

  • Page 7: Bottom Panel

    Names and functions Bottom panel UPDATE PLAY a Battery box Insert eight AA batteries (sold separately) into the box (p.8). Note • Use of alkaline batteries is recommended. Rechargeable batteries (Ni-MH) can be used. b [UPDATE/PLAY] switch This switch is for factory maintenance. Keep the switch at the “PLAY” position. c USB port This port is for factory maintenance.

  • Page 8: Making The Connections

    MAKING THE CONNECTIONS Connections Note • Be sure to turn off all devices before making a connection. Connecting an audio or MIDI device MIDI IN Audio device Stereo headphones MIDI device (such as a powered speaker) (such as an arranger keyboard) LINE OUT (MONO) jack Connect an audio device (such as a powered speaker or a mixer) to output audio of this unit to the audio device.

  • Page 9: Connecting To Power Source

    Connections Connecting to power source ■ Using batteries UPDATE PLAY Battery cover Remove the battery cover and insert eight AA batteries (sold separately) into the battery box in the right way. Use of alkaline batteries is recommended. Rechargeable batteries (Ni-MH) can be used. Attach the battery cover.
  • Page 10 Connections ■ Using the AC adaptor To AC power outlet AC adaptor (sold separately) Connect an authorized AC adaptor to the DC12V/1A jack on this unit, then connect it to an AC power outlet. Note • Power source via the AC adaptor has priority over the batteries.

  • Page 11: Turning On Or Off This Unit

    Turning on or off this unit Turning on or off this unit Master Volume Power STRUMPLATE Main Volume Chord buttons Strumplate ■ Turning on this unit Rotate the [Master Volume] knob counterclockwise to set the volume at minimum. Press the [Power] button. This unit turns on and the power LED lights up.
  • Page 12 Turning on or off this unit Note • When adjusting the volume, also adjust the [STRUMPLATE Main Volume] knob to enable sound. Adjust the volume of the external device (such as a powered speaker). ■ Turning off this unit Set the volume of the external device (such as a powered speaker) at minimum. Turn off any external devices.

  • Page 13: Playing The Omnichord

    PLAYING THE OMNICHORD Creating sounds Power Instant OFF plate Chord buttons Strumplate Let's begin making sounds. Tips • The following procedure is also described in the supplied “Start Up Guide”. Press the [Power] button. This unit turns on and the power LED lights up. Set the controls as shown.
  • Page 14 Creating sounds Slide your finger on the strumplate to create sounds. Slide To stop playing sounds, tap the Instant OFF plate.

  • Page 15: Playing Chords

    Playing chords Playing chords Master Volume RHYTHM STRUMPLATE CHORD Chord buttons REAL TIME CONTROL You can play 108 chords (in combination of roots and suffixes). Root: Df, Af, Ef, Bf, F, C, G, D, A, E, B, Fs Suffix: Major, minor, 7th, Major 7th, minor 7th, Augmented, diminished, suspended 4th, add 9th Note •...
  • Page 16 Playing chords Knobs and buttons Setting [REAL TIME CONTROL] [Chord Manual/Auto] Manual [Chord Hold] Disabled (LED turned off) [Rhythm Start/Sync Start] Sync Start Tips • To play chord sounds continuously, enable the chord hold function. Press any of the chord buttons (one to three buttons). ■...
  • Page 17 Playing chords ■ minor 7th (m7) chord (Example: Cm7) Press the “C-MINOR” and “C-7th” chord buttons at the same time. ■ Augmented (aug) chord (Example: Caug) Press the “C-MAJOR”, “C-MINOR” and “C-7th” chord buttons at the same time. ■ diminished (dim) chord (Example: Cdim) Press the “C-MAJOR”...

  • Page 18: Playing Using The Strumplate

    Playing using the strumplate Playing using the strumplate Master Volume VOICE RHYTHM STRUMPLATE CHORD REAL TIME CONTROL Strumplate Fundamental notes of the selected chord (four octaves) will be arranged in the strumplate (p.49). To play using the strumplate, simply slide or tap your finger on it. Each note composes of two types of voices (main voice and sub voice).
  • Page 19 Playing using the strumplate Use the [VOICE] buttons to select a voice. Press the left button (yellow) to switch between the upper and lower sets, and the five right-hand buttons to select a voice. (Example: “omni1” is selected) (Example: “organ” is selected) Press any of the chord buttons, then slide or tap the strumplate to play sounds.

  • Page 20: Making Rhythm Sounds

    Making rhythm sounds Making rhythm sounds Master Volume PATTERN Master Volume STRUMPLATE CHORD Instant OFF plate Chord buttons REAL TIME CONTROL This unit is equipped with 10 rhythm patterns that correspond to a variety of music styles. Select a rhythm pattern and adjust the tempo. Tips •...
  • Page 21 Making rhythm sounds Use the [PATTERN] buttons to select a rhythm. Press the left button (yellow) to switch between upper and lower sets, and the five right-hand buttons to select a rhythm. (Example: “rock1” is selected) (Example: “bossanova” is selected) Press any of the chord buttons.

  • Page 22: Playing By Using Various Functions

    Playing by using various functions Playing by using various functions Master Volume PATTERN VOICE Master Volume STRUMPLATE CHORD Instant OFF plate Chord buttons REAL TIME CONTROL Strumplate By combining chord, strumplate, rhythm and REAL TIME CONTROL functions, you can achieve a musical performance with rich expression. This chapter introduces some typical examples.

  • Page 23: Chords, Strumplate And Rhythm

    Playing by using various functions Knobs and buttons Setting [REAL TIME CONTROL] [Chord Manual/Auto] Manual [Chord Hold] Enabled (LED turned on) [Rhythm Start/Sync Start] Sync Start Use the [VOICE] buttons to select a voice (p.17). Press any of the chord buttons, then play the strumplate. The chord and strumplate sounds begin to play.

  • Page 24: Automatic Accompaniment (Chords And Bass)

    Playing by using various functions Automatic accompaniment (chords and bass) You can add strumplate play to automatic accompaniment of chords and bass in response to a selected rhythm. This is the most gorgeous play style of this unit. Set the controls as shown. Knobs and buttons Setting [Master Volume]...

  • Page 25: Drum Intro

    Playing by using various functions Drum intro You can perform a song with drum intro. Here. we will introduce two typical methods. ■ Fade-in (chord and bass) Set the controls as shown. Knobs and buttons Setting [Master Volume] Center [STRUMPLATE] [Sustain] Maximum [Main Volume]...
  • Page 26 Playing by using various functions ■ Adding chord and bass together Set the controls as shown. Knobs and buttons Setting [Master Volume] Center [STRUMPLATE] [Sustain] Maximum [Main Volume] 3 o'clock [Sub Volume] 3 o'clock [RHYTHM] [Tempo] Center [Volume] Center [CHORD] [Volume] Center [REAL TIME CONTROL]...

  • Page 27: Playing The Practice Song

    Playing by using various functions Playing the practice song Set the controls as shown. Knobs and buttons Setting [MASTER VOLUME] Center [STRUMPLATE] [Sustain] Maximum [Main Volume] 3 o'clock [Sub Volume] 3 o'clock [RHYTHM] [Tempo] 9 o'clock [Volume] Center [CHORD] [Volume] Center [REAL TIME CONTROL] [Chord Manual/Auto]...
  • Page 28 Playing by using various functions...

  • Page 29: Playing The Keyboard And Drum Set

    Playing the keyboard and drum set Playing the keyboard and drum set KEYBOARD(ON) Master Volume PATTERN VOICE RHYTHM STRUMPLATE CHORD Instant OFF plate Chord buttons REAL TIME CONTROL Strumplate This unit is equipped with a keyboard mode. In keyboard mode, the chord buttons and plates work as a keyboard/drum set. Keyboard and drum set controllers ■...
  • Page 30 Playing the keyboard and drum set ■ Strumplate and Instant OFF plate Crash cymbal Hand claps Hi-hat open Hi-hat closed Low tom High tom Snare drum Bass drum...

  • Page 31: Playing Melodies

    Playing the keyboard and drum set Playing melodies Use the chord buttons (keyboard) to play melodies. Tips • Position the supplied keyboard overlay on the chord buttons so that you can easily recognize the keyboard layout. Set the controls as shown. Knobs and buttons Setting [Master Volume]...

  • Page 32: Additional Information On The Keyboard Mode

    Playing the keyboard and drum set Additional information on the keyboard mode In keyboard mode, some voices and functions work differently from normal. ■ omni 1 and omni 2 For details about voices, refer to “Explanation of voices” (p.50). omni 1 omni 2 Keyboard mode Main...

  • Page 33: Other Features

    OTHER FEATURES Master tune ↓ / ↑(ON) KEYBOARD(ON) PATTERN You can adjust the master tuning frequency (in increments of 1Hz). Adjust this setting when playing with other musicians, instruments or backing tracks. Affected to Parameter -6 (434Hz) to 0 (440Hz) to +6 (446Hz) Factory setting 0 (440Hz) Press the [KEYBOARD (ON)] button to turn on its LED.
  • Page 34 Master tune Plus (+) 1 Parameter “+1” Tips • To check the current setting, press only the [P] button. • To restore the factory setting, press and hold the [P] button and press the [↑] and [↓] buttons together. To finish the setting, press the [KEYBOARD (ON)] button to turn off its LED.

  • Page 35: Transpose

    Transpose Transpose ↓ / ↑ VOICE KEYBOARD(ON) You can transpose the pitch by half-steps (semitones). When you sing to your own accompaniment without changing chords, transpose the pitch to suit your voice. Affected to Chord, Strumplate Parameter -6 to 0 to +6 Factory setting Note •...
  • Page 36 Transpose Plus (+) 1 Parameter “+1” Tips • To check the current setting, press only the [T] button. • To restore the factory setting, press and hold the [T] button and press the [↑] and [↓] buttons together. To finish the setting, press the [KEYBOARD (ON)] button to turn off its LED.

  • Page 37: Octave Shift

    Octave shift Octave shift ↓ / ↑ KEYBOARD(ON) You can adjust the sounding octave of the keyboard. There are three steps available. Affected to Keyboard (keyboard mode) Parameter Down, Normal, Up Factory setting Normal Press the [KEYBOARD (ON)] button to turn on its LED. To shift the keyboard one octave up, press the [↑] button (chord button).

  • Page 38: Reproducing The Rhythm Notes Of Om-84 (Classic Mode)

    (country/bossanova) (swing/waltz) This unit faithfully reproduces the rhythm tones of the OM-84. Tips • The Suzuki OM-84 is one of the most popular Omnichord models due to its unique 1980s rhythm voicing. Affected to Rhythm notes Parameter Normal mode (OM-108), Classic Mode (OM-84)
  • Page 39 Reproducing the rhythm notes of OM-84 (Classic Mode) When the [PATTERN (country/bossanova)] LED flashes, release the button. This unit is switched to normal mode (rhythm notes of OM-108).

  • Page 40: Midi

    MIDI MIDI MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is an internationally recognized communication standard allowing electronic musical instruments and sequencers to communicate with one another, regardless of manufacturers. The MIDI of this unit transmits control messages such as “Chord button ON (pressed) or Off (released)” and “Strumplate On (touched) or Off (released)”, and parameter values such as volumes, sustain level and tempo.

  • Page 41: Midi Information

    MIDI Example: When selecting “Volume CC: On”. “Preset 2” and “Decay/Release CC: Off” When selecting “Volume CC: Off”, “Preset 3” and “Decay/Release CC: On” Note • Even when you wish to change the Volume CC or Decay/Release setting only, press the [VOICE] button for Preset at the same time. When the [VOICE] LED flashes, release the button.
  • Page 42 MIDI *3: This message will be transmitted in synchronization with operations of the [STRUMPLATE Sustain] knob when “Decay/Release CC” is set to “On” (p.39). Some MIDI devices may not support this function. About Decay/Release CC Decay/Release CC Description The Decay/Release CC value changes in response to [STRTUMPLATE Sustain] knob adjustments. This is effective when you play sound of an instrument whose sound fades-out, such as a piano or guitar.
  • Page 43 MIDI Arranger keyboard Note: OM-108 strumplate (CH1/4), chord, bass Sound source Auto rhythm/ automatic accompaniment Clock Preset 3 (All Out) • Transmit channels: CH1 to CH4, CH10 This preset transmits playing sounds of the strumplate (melody in keyboard mode), chords. bass and drums to a multitimbral MIDI sound source.

  • Page 44: Drum Map

    MIDI Drum map Note number Octave Note Instrument Bass drum Rim shot Snare drum Hand claps Floor tom Hi-hat close Low tom Hi-hat open Hight tom Cymbal Tambourine High conga (muted) Maracas Claves...

  • Page 45: Midi Implementation Chart

    MIDI MIDI implementation chart Model: OM-108 (Omnichord) Date: 12-Feb-2024 (Version: 1.0) Function Transmitted Recognized Remarks Default 1 - 3 Basic Channel Changed 1 - 4, 10 Default Mode Messages Altered ***** 12 - 120 Note Number :True Voice ***** Note ON Velocity Note OFF Key's...

  • Page 46: Configurations

    CONFIGURATIONS Auto power off setting PATTERN PATTERN Power (rock 1/disco) (rock 2/hip hop) You can enable/disable the auto power off function. When this function is enabled, this unit will automatically turn off if no buttons or knobs are used for 30 minutes. (Factory setting: Enabled) Turn off this unit (p.11).

  • Page 47: Battery Level Indicator Setting

    Battery level indicator setting Battery level indicator setting Power Chord Hold Chord Manual/Auto When batteries are used, the Power LED indicates the current battery level (p.8). Due to the characteristic of rechargeable batteries (Ni-MH), the battery level may be recognized less than the actual amount. When using rechargeable batteries (Ni-MH) or when replacing them with alkaline batteries, configure the battery level indicator setting.
  • Page 48 Battery level indicator setting This unit is turned on with the new setting.

  • Page 49: Restoring The Factory Settings

    Restoring the factory settings Restoring the factory settings Power PATTERN (Yellow) VOICE (Yellow) Turn off this unit (p.11). Press and hold the left buttons (yellow) of the [VOICE] and [PATTERN] buttons, and press the [Power] button. When the left buttons (yellow) flash, release the buttons. Factory settings are now restored.

  • Page 50: Appendix

    APPENDIX Scale arrangement of the strumplate Starting from Fs, the notes up to F of the next octave are grouped. Higher notes will be rearranged to the octave lower than the root. Example: G Major Example: C Major...

  • Page 51: Explanation Of Voices

    Explanation of voices Explanation of voices Each voice consists of two types of voices (main and sub voices). The main voice is an instrument which can be selected by pressing the [VOICE] button. A sub voice has a role that enhances the selected main voice. It is automatically selected according to a selected main voice. ■...

  • Page 52: Troubleshooting

    In some cases, the Omnichord will function properly if reset to factory settings (p.48). If the problem still persists, consult with your retailer, a SUZUKI dealer in your area or an authorized SUZUKI distributor. When this function is enabled, this unit will automatically turn off If no buttons or knobs are used for 30 minutes.

  • Page 53: Mounting Strap Buttons

    Mounting strap buttons Mounting strap buttons By using the strap buttons “OSB-108” (sold separately), you can attach a commercially available guitar strap to your Omnichord. Things to prepare • OSB-108 (set of two strap buttons and two screws) • PH2 screwdriver ! CAUTION "...

  • Page 54: Specifications

    Specifications Specifications Chords • Buttons: 38 • Types: Major, minor, 7th, Major 7th, minor 7th, Augmented, diminished, suspended 4th, add 9th Voices 10 voices (main, sub), 4 octaves Rhythms 10 patterns Functions • Knobs: Master Volume, STRUMPLATE (Sustain, Main Volume, Sub Volume), RHYTHM (Tempo, Volume), CHORD (Volume) •...

  • Page 55: Safety Instructions

    SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS Before using this unit, please make sure you read the following “SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.” Always follow the instructions listed below to maintain in safety. In this manual, the degrees of dangers are classified as follows: WARNING This sign shows there is a risk of death or severe injury if the corresponding instruction is not properly followed.
  • Page 56 Consult with your retailer, a near SUZUKI dealer or an authorized SUZUKI distributor. Use the same type of batteries. Do not mix batteries from different brands or manufacturers.
  • Page 57 Always remove batteries from the instrument replacement cover is obtained. when it will not be used for an extended period. A replacement fuse cover can be obtained from your local Suzuki Dealer. If the fitted molded plug is unsuitable for the socket outlet in...
  • Page 58 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS Note: 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.

  • Page 59: Precautions For Use

    PRECAUTIONS FOR USE PRECAUTIONS FOR USE POWER • Turn off the power of all devices before connecting external devices to prevent malfunction or damage to the devices. • Do not connect any equipment that generates noise (e.g. refrigerator, washing machine, microwave, air conditioner) on the same power line as this unit to prevent noise generation or malfunction of this unit.
  • Page 60 Although every attempt has been made to insure the accuracy of the descriptive contents of this Manual, total accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Should the owner require further assistance, inquiries should first be made to your Authorized Suzuki Dealer. If you still need further assistance, contact Suzuki at the following addresses: SUZUKI EUROPE Ltd.

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