E-MU Systems 2

Owner’s Manual
© 2006 E-MU Systems
All Rights Reserved

PN:02EM770006004

Revision: A

E-MU World Headquarters Europe

E-MU Systems Creative Labs (Ireland) Ltd
1500 Green Hills Road Ballycoolin Business Park
Scotts Valley, CA 95066 Blanchardstown, Dublin 15
USA IRELAND

Asia Pacific Africa, Middle East Japan

Creative Technology Ltd Creative Media K. K.
31 International Business Park Kanda Eight Bldg., 3F
Creative Resource, Singapore 609921 4-6-7 Soto-Kanda
SINGAPORE Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021
JAPAN

XBoard 3
Important!
The complete Xboard manual is available in PDF format on the included CD-
ROM.

Important
Le manual français de l’ Xboard est disponible au format PDF, sur la CD-ROM
inclus.

Wichtig
Das deutsche Handbuch ist als PDF Dokument auf der mitgelieferten CD-ROM
vorhanden.

E-MU Systems 4
Table of Contents

Introduction .................................................................7
Requirements ...................................................................................... 8
On a PC: ..........................................................................................................8
On a Mac: .......................................................................................................8
Hardware Installation .......................................................................... 8
Connecting the Xboard to your Computer ........................................... 9
USB Connection ...............................................................................................9
MIDI Connection ..............................................................................................9
MIDI Interface ................................................................................................10
Software Installation .......................................................................... 11
Macintosh OS X ..............................................................................................11
Windows 2000 ..............................................................................................11
Windows XP ..................................................................................................11
Uninstalling all Audio Drivers and Applications ................................................12
Note About Windows Logo Testing ................................................................12
Troubleshooting ................................................................................ 13
Lost Communication ......................................................................................13
Wrong Driver in Windows XP or Windows 2000 ............................................13

Main Panel Controls ....................................................17

Controller Knobs ........................................................20

Normal mode ................................................................................................20
16 Channel Controller mode ..........................................................................20
3D MIDI and NRPN mode ..............................................................................20

Xboard 61 Panel Controls ...........................................21

Using the Numeric Keypad .............................................................................22

Back Panel Description ...............................................23

XBoard 5
Powering the Xboard ................................................. 24
Inserting Batteries into the Xboard ..................................................................24

Basic Operations ........................................................ 25

Entering Data .....................................................................................25
Selecting and Storing Patches .............................................................25
Changing the MIDI Channel ...............................................................26
Transposing the Keyboard ..................................................................27
Changing Controller CC Channel Numbers .........................................27
16 Channel Control Mode ..................................................................27
Working With Zones ...........................................................................28
Note Latch Mode ...............................................................................29
Latch Mode, Zones Disabled ..........................................................................29
Latch Mode, Zones Enabled ...........................................................................30
Snap Shot ..........................................................................................30
Bypass Mode ......................................................................................31
Editing Patch and Device Settings .......................................................31
Scrolling Text Display ......................................................................................32
Edit Parameters ..................................................................................33
PGM Send on Recall .......................................................................................33
Send Program Change ...................................................................................33
Bank Sel MSB .................................................................................................34
Bank Sel LSB ...................................................................................................34
Program Change (PGM) Browse Mode ...........................................................35
CC Send On Recall .........................................................................................35
Save CC Value in Patch ..................................................................................36
Aftertouch On/Off ..........................................................................................37
Semitone Transpose .......................................................................................37
Velocity Curve Select ......................................................................................37
16 Channel CC Number .................................................................................38
Latch High/Low Note .....................................................................................38
X1 and X2 Functions ......................................................................................38
Read the Complete Manual ................................................................43

Index ......................................................................... 45

E-MU Systems 6
Introduction

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your purchase of the E-MU Xboard 25, Xboard 49, or Xboard
61 USB/MIDI controller. Xboard professional USB/MIDI controllers offer
unmatched playability, real-time control and programmability in portable 25 key,
49 key, and 61 key packages. All models feature full-size velocity-sensitive keys
with aftertouch, pitch and modulation wheels, and 16 controller knobs. The
Xboard 61 additionally features 16 Patch Select/Program Change buttons, and
four Zone enable/disable buttons.
These keyboards are ideal for either studio or stage use since they can be used as
stand-alone MIDI controllers or with a USB equipped PC or Macintosh computer.
The Xboard MIDI output can even be used as a MIDI interface for your computer
when connected via USB. The Xboard is ultra-portable and can be powered via
USB, battery, or using the optional 6 VDC power supply.
Each of the 16 controller knobs can be programmed to any controller number on
any MIDI channel. The keyboard can be transposed up or down ±4 octaves in
order to play in any key and any pitch.
You can also assign four different Keyboard Zones to four different MIDI
channels, each using a different key range and velocity range. Also, each Zone can
have different settings for Pitch Wheel, Mod Wheel, Latch, Aftertouch, Pedal, and
Transpose.
All Xboard models contain a host of extra features. The “Snap Shot” feature lets
you send multiple controller values with a single button press. The “Xboard Latch
Mode” lets you define a section of the keyboard as On/Off triggers—perfect for
drum loops. Each of the 16 internal patches has a programmable footpedal/
footswitch setting, can select one of eight velocity curves, and can send program
changes for up to 16 MIDI channels.

XBoard 7
Introduction

Requirements
The included Xboard Control software provides an intuitive desktop interface that
makes it easy to create custom templates for all your favorite hardware and
software instruments.

On a PC:
You must be running Windows 2000, XP, or XP x64 Edition, and your computer
must support USB to communicate with the Xboard. The Xboard can operate in
MIDI Output mode without a computer if power is supplied via a 6VDC adapter
or batteries.

On a Mac:
You must be running Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later to connect the Xboard. The Xboard
can operate in MIDI Output mode without a computer if power is supplied via a
6VDC adapter or batteries.

Hardware Installation
The connection diagrams on the following pages show how to connect the Xboard
to your computer or to another MIDI device.
The supplied USB cable provides power and a two-way data link between the
Xboard and your computer. The USB port on your computer is a small (1/8” x 3/
8”) rectangular opening. The connector is keyed so you cannot plug it in wrong.
The other end of the USB cable is square and plugs into the back of the Xboard.
This end is also keyed to prevent incorrect insertion.

Important: Windows 2000 users must install the software BEFORE the hardware
is connected for the first time.
If the Xboard is not connected to the computer via USB it requires a source of
power in the form of a 6VDC adapter (tip positive) or (3) AA batteries.

E-MU Systems 8
Introduction

Connecting the Xboard to your Computer

USB Connection
USB provides a two-way data link
between the Xboard and your
computer and also supplies
power to the Xboard. Always
connect to the USB port on the
computer itself—the USB port on
your computer keyboard will not
supply sufficient power.

USB Cable
(included)

MIDI Connection
MIDI Sound Module The Xboard sends MIDI
CO1 A V1 27 P01 R A : P V I N TG
performance data to another
0223 t r n : Me l l o t r on S t r

MIDI device, such as a MIDI

In sound module. The Xboard
always transmits MIDI data
MIDI except when “Thru” mode is
Cable enabled. (See page 39.)
(not included)
6 VDC
Adapter
(optional)
Out

XBoard 9
Introduction

MIDI Interface

MIDI Sound Module

CO1 A V1 27 P01 R A : P V I N TG
0223 t r n : Me l l o t r on S t r

In
MIDI
Cable

USB Cable
(included) Out

The Xboard can function as a MIDI interface when connected to your computer via
USB. Set the Xboard MIDI port to “Thru” (page 39) to transmit MIDI from your
sequencing application to an external MIDI device.

E-MU Systems 10
Introduction

Software Installation

Macintosh OS X
Follow these instructions to install the Xboard Control software on a Macintosh
computer.
1. Insert the Xboard installation CD.
2. Double-click the E-MU icon on your desktop.
3. In the E-MU folder that opens, double-click the E-MU Xboard Apps & Docs
installer.
4. Follow the prompts to install the software.

Windows 2000
Follow these instructions to install the Xboard USB drivers and Xboard Control
software on a Windows 2000 computer.
1. Make sure the X-Board is NOT CONNECTED to your computer.
2. Insert the E-MU software Installation CD into your CD-ROM drive. If
Windows AutoPlay mode is enabled for your CD-ROM drive, the CD starts
running automatically. If not, from your Windows desktop, click Start->Run
and type d:\setup.exe (replace d:\ with the drive letter of your CD-ROM
drive). You can also simply open the CD and double-click Setup.exe.
3. The installation splash screen appears. Follow the instructions on the screen
to complete the installation. You will have the option to install E-Mu Xboard,
and the other software included on the CD.
4. Choose “Continue Anyway” when you encounter the “Windows Logo
Testing” warning screen. See the note on the following page.
5. When prompted, restart your computer.
6. Connect the Xboard to your computer using the supplied USB cable.

Windows XP
Follow these instructions to install the Xboard USB drivers and Xboard Control
software on a Windows XP computer.
1. First connect the Xboard to your computer using the supplied USB cable, and
turn it on.
2. If Windows prompts you with an Add New Hardware Wizard, click Cancel.

XBoard 11
Introduction

3. Insert the E-MU software Installation CD into your CD-ROM drive. If

Windows AutoPlay mode is enabled for your CD-ROM drive, the CD starts
running automatically. If not, from your Windows desktop, click Start->Run
and type d:\setup.exe (replace d:\ with the drive letter of your CD-ROM
drive). You can also simply open the CD and double-click Setup.exe.
4. The installation splash screen appears. Follow the instructions on the screen
to complete the installation. You will have the option to install E-Mu Xboard,
and the other software included on the CD.
5. Choose “Continue Anyway” when you encounter the “Windows Logo
Testing” warning screen. See the note on the following page.
6. When prompted, restart your computer.

Uninstalling all Audio Drivers and Applications

At times you may need to uninstall or reinstall some or all of the Xboard's applica-
tions and device drivers to correct problems, change configurations, or upgrade
outdated drivers or applications. Before you begin, close all Xboard-related
applications. Applications running during the uninstallation will not be removed.
1. Click Start -> Settings -> Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.
3. Click the Install/Uninstall tab (or Change or Remove Programs button).
4. Select the E-MU Xboard entry and then click the Change/Remove button.
5. In the InstallShield Wizard dialog box, select the Remove ALL option.
6. Click the Yes button.
7. Restart your computer when prompted.
8. You may now re-install existing or updated E-MU device drivers or applications.

Note About Windows Logo Testing

When you install the Xboard USB drivers, you will see a dialog box that informs
you that the driver has not passed Windows Logo testing.
However, the Xboard USB drivers have been rigorously tested using the same test
procedures that a signed driver requires, and it passes in all important categories,
including those that measure the relative stability of the driver. So, it is perfectly
safe to install these drivers on your computer.

E-MU Systems 12
Introduction

Troubleshooting

Lost Communication
Should you lose MIDI communication between your Xboard and an audio appli-
cation (Cubase, Sonar, etc.) or the Xboard Control software, the Xboard drivers
may need to be re-selected in your application.
1. Go to your application's MIDI I/O settings, de-select the Xboard for both
MIDI input and output (or select a different MIDI device).
2. Apply these changes and exit the dialog.
3. Re-enter the application's MIDI settings and re-select the Xboard drivers. If
this does not work, the application may need to be restarted.

Wrong Driver in Windows XP or Windows 2000

You may encounter a situation where the Xboard Control or Proteus X software is
not running properly, even though the MIDI device itself seems to be working fine.
If this is the case, you may be in a situation where the Microsoft USB Audio Device
driver is running, rather than the E-MU USB Xboard Driver. This may happen if
you add a USB Hub, or if you plug the Xboard keyboard into a different USB port
than the one it was plugged into when you installed the Xboard software.

 To confirm the problem, do the following:

1. Temporarily disconnect any USB audio devices you may have connected (USB
audio/USB MIDI interfaces, etc.).
2. Connect the Xboard to a USB port and switch the power to the on position.
3. Windows may prompt the user with an Add New Hardware Wizard--Cancel
this wizard.
4. Start menu -> Settings -> Control Panel -> System -> Hardware -> Device
Manager.
5. Under Sound, Video and Game Controllers, find the device called either USB
Audio Device or E-MU Xboardxx.
6. Double-click on this device and then click on Driver.
7. • If the vendor shown here is E-MU Systems, you have run into a different
problem, and you should contact Technical Support.
• If the vendor shown here is Microsoft, instead of E-MU Systems, you have
indeed run into this situation. Continue on to the next section.

XBoard 13
Introduction

 Windows XP -> You may recover by doing the following:

1. Click on Update Driver.
2. If you are running Windows Service Pack 2, you will receive this dialog box.
Click on “No, not this time”, then Next.

3. In the next panel, click on (Advanced) and then Next.

E-MU Systems 14
Introduction

4. In the next panel. click on Don't Search, and then Next.

5. In the next panel, select the E-MU USB-MIDI Device, then Next.

6. After a few moments, you will see the Microsoft Digital Signature warning.
Click Continue Anyway.
7. At this point, you should now be using the correct driver. It may be necessary
to reboot your computer at this point.
XBoard 15
Introduction

 Windows 2000 -> You may recover by doing the following:

1. Double-click the incorrect listing in the Device Manager and choose Update
Driver... from the Driver tab.
2. Choose Next, then Display a list of known drivers for this device...
3. Choose Next.
4. Choose Have Disk...
5. Insert your Xboard install CD. If the disk autoruns, Exit the disk's installer.
6. Click Browse.
7. Browse to the following file, double-click the file, and press OK: ---->
X:\Audio\Drivers\Driver\emuumidi.inf (where X = your CD drive letter).
8. Choose Next.
9. Choose Next again. The Windows logo testing dialog should appear.
10. Choose Yes.
11. Click Finish. It may be necessary to reboot your computer at this point.

E-MU Systems 16
Main Panel Controls

MAIN PANEL CONTROLS

1. Data Entry / Master Volume Slider

This control is used to enter data values when editing. When not being used
for editing, the Data Slider functions as a master volume control transmitting
a “Universal Real Time System Exclusive” message for Master Volume.

2. Edit
Press this button to edit the current patch and certain device settings.
To Edit: Press the Edit button, choose the parameter to be edited using the
keyboard keys, enter the value with the slider, then press Enter.

3. MIDI Indicators
The decimal points in the LED flash to indicate USB and MIDI activity.
a. USB In
b. USB Out
c. MIDI Out
The activity indicators can be enabled or disabled from the X1 menu.
See “X1 and X2 Functions” on page 38.

4. Home
The Home button takes you out of edit mode and back into play mode
without saving your edit. You can also think of this button as an Escape
button which returns you to Play mode, the normal operating mode of the
keyboard. The Home LED is lit whenever the Xboard is in Play mode.

XBoard 17
Main Panel Controls

5. Store Patch
This button stores your keyboard setup in one of the 16 memory locations.
To Store a Patch: After pressing Store, select the desired patch number using
the data slider, the Octave Transpose + and - buttons, or the Direct Patch
Select buttons (Xboard 61 only), then press Enter to store the current setup.

6. Enter
Press Enter to confirm your settings when editing. In most cases, the Home
LED illuminates after Enter is pressed, indicating a return to Play mode.

7. Octave Down
This button transposes the keyboard down one octave each time it is pressed.
The new octave transpose value (-1, -2, -3, -4) momentarily appears in the
display and the LED on the button remains lit unless transpose is set to zero.

8. Octave Up
This button transposes the keyboard up one octave each time it is pressed.
The new octave transpose value (+1, +2, +3, +4) momentarily appears in the
display and the LED on the button remains lit unless transpose is set to zero.

MIDI Panic Button (6 + 7)

Pressing both of the Octave Transpose buttons simultaneously causes the
following MIDI messages to be sent on all 16 channels: “All Notes Off”, “All
Sounds Off”, “Sustain Pedal Off”. This will turn off any “stuck notes” which
occur when a synthesizer receives a note-on message without receiving a
corresponding note-off message.

Increment / Decrement Buttons

The Octave Transpose buttons can be used as increment/decrement buttons
whenever the Data Slider is active for modifying an edit value (either numeric
or non-numeric settings). The increment/decrement buttons allow you to
increase or decrease the value one unit at a time.

9. Patch Select
This button is used to select one of the 16 user patches in memory.
To Select a Patch: Press the Patch Select button, then choose a patch using the
data slider, the Octave Transpose + and - buttons, or the Direct Patch Select
buttons (Xboard 61 only), and press Enter.

E-MU Systems 18
Main Panel Controls

10. MIDI Channel Select

This button selects the Basic MIDI channel for the keyboard and all controls.
To Select a MIDI Channel: Press the MIDI Channel button, then select the
channel using the data slider, the Octave Transpose + and - buttons, or the
Direct Patch Select buttons (Xboard 61 only), and press Enter.

11. 16 Channel Control Mode

In this mode, one MIDI Continuous Controller number is assigned to all 16
knobs and each numbered knob transmits on the same-numbered MIDI
channel. This gives you control of one parameter (such as volume or pan) for
all 16 MIDI channels. See page 27 for detailed information.

12. Latch Mode

In this mode, pressed keys continue to play until they are pressed again to
turn them off. This allows notes to be sustained for any length of time
without having to hold down the keys. A range of latch keys can be defined
using the “Latch High Note” and “Latch Low Note” edit parameters. See
page 29.

13. Knob Bypass

Knob Bypass disables the transmission of MIDI messages from the knobs or
control pedal/footswitch to avoid abrupt parameter jumps in performance.
When Bypass is On, you can pre-set the knobs anywhere you like without
sending MIDI controller messages. When you turn Bypass Off again, nothing
is transmitted, but the knobs are now in the desired position for your perfor-
mance. When you turn a knob, the value of the new knob position will be
sent.
This feature can also be used to set up any of the knobs the way you want,
then send the values later using the Snapshot feature. See page 31.

14. Snapshot
When this button is pressed, the stored current settings of all performance
controls (knobs, wheels, footswitch/pedal) are transmitted. This feature can
also be used in conjunction with the Knob Bypass control to setup, and then
send a group of MIDI continuous controllers messages at once.
The Snapshot function is accessible only while in Play mode (i.e., whenever
the Home LED is lit).

XBoard 19
Controller Knobs

CONTROLLER KNOBS

The 16 Controller Knobs are designed to modify the sound during performance.
MIDI Continuous Controller messages are transmitted whenever the knobs are
turned (except when “Knob Bypass” is enabled).
Whenever a controller knob is turned, the current value of the knob is displayed
on the LED. Next, the letters “CC” flash on the display, followed by the MIDI
Continuous Controller assigned to the knob, then the letters “CH”, and finally the
MIDI channel on which the knob currently sends. To set the CC channel numbers
of the knobs see page 27.

Normal mode
Any MIDI Continuous Controller number can be assigned to any knob. For
instructions on setting this from the Xboard, see page 27. For help setting this using
the Xboard Control Software, see the Xboard Owner’s Manual PDF.

16 Channel Controller mode

In this mode, one MIDI Continuous Controller number is assigned to all 16 knobs
and each numbered knob transmits on the same-numbered MIDI channel. This
gives you control of one parameter (such as volume or pan) for all 16 MIDI
channels. See page 27.

3D MIDI and NRPN mode

Using the Xboard Control software, any of the 16 Controller Knobs can be
configured to run in 3D MIDI mode, or NRPN mode. For more information, see the
Xboard Owner’s Manual PDF.

E-MU Systems 20
Xboard 61 Panel Controls

XBOARD 61 PANEL CONTROLS

1. Patch Select / Numeric Keypad

These buttons serve a number of functions:
• With Program Change mode turned off, you can select a patch from 1 to
16 at any time. The LED for the current patch stays illuminated.
• When changing MIDI channel, or Storing and Loading Patches with the
main panel controls, use buttons 1 through 16 to make a selection.
• For Program change mode, use buttons 1 through 10 to enter numerical
values for Program Changes.
• Use the numerical keypad buttons when entering numerical values, such
as Edit functions.

2. Zones Enable
Enables or disables keyboard Zone functions in the active patch. When Zones
are enabled, the LED illuminates.
For the Xboard 25 or Xboard 49, you can enable or disable Zones using the
X2 menu item “ZoE”(page 42) or the Xboard Control software.

3. Keyboard Zones Buttons

These buttons enable or disable individual Zones. When a Zone is enabled,
the LED illuminates.
For the Xboard 25 or Xboard 49, you can enable or disable individual Zones
using the Xboard Control software.

XBoard 21
Xboard 61 Panel Controls

4. Program Change Mode

When you press this button, you switch between Program Change mode and
Patch Select mode. The LED illuminates when in Program Change mode.
• Program Change mode: allows you to send MIDI program changes to
other equipment using the numerical buttons. (0-9)
• Patch Select mode: allows you to select from 16 internal patches (1-16).
The Program Change Mode button also doubles as the Enter button when it,
along with the Enter button, flashes.

Using the Numeric Keypad

The numeric keypad allows you to enter numeric values for Program Changes, and
other settings.

To use the numeric keypad to enter data, use the buttons labeled 1 through 10 to
enter a value. The current value is reflected in the display. The “10” button acts as
the value of 0, so if you want to enter a value of 109, you would press:

If you enter a value you don’t like, you can clear the value by entering “0” three
times.

E-MU Systems 22
Back Panel Description

BACK PANEL DESCRIPTION

1. Footswitch / Footpedal Input

This jack accepts either a footswitch or continuously variable footpedal. The
default setting is for a footswitch. To use a footpedal, see page 39.
Footswitch - Accepts either a normally-open or normally-closed momentary
footswitch. The Xboard auto-senses the polarity on power-up.
Footpedal - Accepts most standard footpedal types with a stereo plug. See the
wiring diagram shown in the Xboard Owner’s Manual PDF for pedal wiring
specifications.

2. MIDI Output
Outputs note and controller MIDI data from the Xboard. This jack can also be
used as a MIDI interface from a computer software application. See page 39.
Use a standard MIDI cable to connect the Xboard to the MIDI input jack of
other MIDI devices.

3. USB
Connects Xboard to your computer via the supplied USB cable. The USB
connection provides two-way communication when connected to the
computer and also supplies power to the Xboard. Always connect to the USB
jack on the computer itself and NOT to a low-power USB connection that
may be present on your computer keyboard or other USB peripheral.

4. 6 Volt DC Power
This jack allows the Xboard to be powered from a standard 6VDC Adapter
(positive tip) when not connected to the computer via USB.

5. On/Off Switch
This switch turns the Xboard on or off whether powered via USB, AC Adapter,
or batteries.

XBoard 23
Powering the Xboard

POWERING THE XBOARD

The Xboard can be powered using any of the following power sources:
• USB from the host computer
• 6 VDC Adapter (Optional - Part Number: 70EM779006000)
• (3) AA batteries
The priority of power sources is as follows:
1. 6VDC power - will be used over all other power sources if available.
2. USB power - will be used if connected and 6VDC is not available.
3. Battery power - will be used only if no other power source is available.

Inserting Batteries into the Xboard

Sometimes it’s nice not to have to hassle with power at all. Thankfully the Xboard
can be operated using (3) AA batteries. Battery life generally exceeds 5 hours using
standard alkaline batteries. Lithium batteries typically last 16+ hours.

 To Insert Batteries
The battery compartment is located on the bottom of the unit.
1. Press the two tabs toward the middle of the battery door while lifting up. The
compartment door lifts up and out.
2. Insert (3) AA batteries. Make sure you install them as indicated at the bottom
of the battery compartment with + aligned with the + side of the battery.

The battery compartment on the Xboard 25 and Xboard 49

Insert Batteries
here

This Side Not

Used

3. Insert the tabs of the battery compartment door into the hinge slots, then
press down to snap the door closed.

E-MU Systems 24
Basic Operations

BASIC OPERATIONS

Entering Data
There are several ways to enter data from the Xboard.
• Data Slider - Move the slider to select the data value.
• Octave Transpose buttons - Increment and decrement a value by pressing
the “+” and “-” buttons.
• Keyboard Data Entry - The black and white keyboard keys marked with
numbers can be used to directly enter data values (except when changing the
MIDI channel number or storing and selecting patches, since the keyboard remains
“live” at these times).
• Numeric Keypad (Xboard 61 only) - Type in the value using keys 1-10.
See page 22.

Selecting and Storing Patches

The Xboard can hold 16 patches in its internal memory. A patch contains the
settings for all user programmable controls of the Xboard.
In addition, depending on the patch settings, the Xboard can send MIDI program
changes message(s) and initial controller settings for the knobs, wheels and
footswitch/pedal when a particular patch is selected.

 To Select a Patch Using the Main Panel

1. Press the Patch Select button, illuminating the LED. The Enter button and
Program Change Mode button (Xboard 61) begin flashing.
2. Select the desired patch number using the data slider or the Octave
Transpose + and - buttons. On the Xboard 61, you can also use the Direct
Patch Select buttons 1 through 16.
On the Xboard 61, the new patch you selected begins flashing.
3. Press Enter to confirm the operation. Press Home to cancel the operation.

XBoard 25
Basic Operations

 To Select a Patch Using Direct Patch Select Buttons (Xboard 61)

1. Make sure Program Change mode is off. The Program Change Mode button’s
LED should not be lit.
2. Press one of Direct Patch Select buttons 1 through 16.

 To Store a Patch:
1. Press the Store button. The Enter and Direct Patch Select (Xboard 61) LEDs
begin flashing.
2. Select the desired patch number using the data slider or the Octave
Transpose + and - buttons. On the Xboard 61, you can also use the Direct
Patch Select buttons 1 through 16.
On the Xboard 61, the new patch you selected begins flashing.
3. Press Enter to store the patch. Press Home to cancel the operation.

Changing the MIDI Channel

The MIDI specification allows for up to 16 channels to be used. This control allows
you to set the Basic MIDI channel for data transmitted by the Xboard keyboard
and controllers. Note that this setting is stored in and recalled from patches.

 To Change the MIDI Channel:

1. Press the MIDI Channel button. The MIDI Channel LED illuminates. On the
Xboard 61, the Direct Patch Select button representing the Current MIDI
channel also illuminates.
2. Select the desired MIDI channel using the data slider or the Octave
Transpose + and - buttons. On the Xboard 61, you can also use the Direct
Patch Select buttons 1 through 16.
The Enter and Direct Patch Select (Xboard 61) buttons will be flashing. On
the Xboard 61, the Direct Patch Select button representing the new MIDI
channel begins flashing as well.
3. Press Enter to confirm the operation, or press Home to cancel the operation.

E-MU Systems 26
Basic Operations

Transposing the Keyboard

The keyboard can be transposed up and down ±4 octaves
by pressing the Octave Transpose buttons. The octave
number appears momentarily in the display. The LED on
the transpose button remains lit to remind you that the
keyboard is transposed. The transposition value is stored
with the patch.
Octave Transpose works differently depending on your zones settings:
• With Zones disabled, the keyboard is simply transposed by octaves.
• With Zones enabled and Octave Transpose Mode set to Pre Zone, the
keyboard is transposed, but each Zone’s tuning stays the same.
• With Zones enabled and Octave Transpose Mode set to Post Zone, any Zone
that has Post Zone Octave Transpose enabled is transposed, while the
keyboard’s tuning stays the same.

Changing Controller CC Channel Numbers

You can change MIDI continuous controller numbers (0-127) for each knob,
pedal, or the Mod Wheel on the Xboard. The Xboard CC numbers must match the
CC numbers on your synthesizer in order to operate.

 To Change Controller CC Channel Numbers:

1. Press the Edit button.
2. Move the controller you want to change. This can be any of the 16 controller
knobs, a pedal, or the Mod Wheel. The Enter button blinks and the display
shows you the controller’s current CC Channel number.
3. Select the desired CC Channel number using the data slider or the Octave
Transpose + and - buttons. On the Xboard 61, you can also use the Direct
Patch Select buttons 1 through 16.
4. Press Enter to confirm the operation. Or, press Home to cancel the operation.

16 Channel Control Mode

16 Channel Control mode is a special performance mode in which all 16 knobs
send one CC number on MIDI channels 1 through 16. This allows you to control a
single parameter on all 16 MIDI channels. For example, if the controller number
were set to #7 (Channel Volume), the knobs could be used to mix the volumes of
all 16 MIDI channels.

XBoard 27
Basic Operations

In 16 Channel Control Mode, each knob transmits on its same-numbered MIDI Channel.
All knobs transmit the same MIDI Controller number.

 To Select 16 Channel Control Mode:

1. Press the 16 Channel button. The 16 Channel LED illuminates.
2. Press the button again to exit 16 Channel Control Mode. The LED goes off.

 To Set the 16 Channel Control Number:

1. Press the Edit button. The Edit LED illuminates.
2. Press the keyboard key marked 16-Ch. CC Number.
3. Select a CC number from 0-127 using the Data Slider, the Octave Transpose
buttons, or the numeric keyboard keys. The Enter button flashes.
4. Press Enter to confirm the operation. Press Home to cancel the operation.

Working With Zones

 To Enable or Disable the Zones Function
• Use the ZoE function in the X2 menu. See page 42.
• For the Xboard 25, 49, or 61, use the Enable All button in the Xboard
Control software. See the Xboard Owner’s Manual PDF.
• On the Xboard 61, press the Zones Enable button. When enabled, the LED
illuminates.

 To Enable or Disable a Specific Zone

• On the Xboard 61, press the corresponding button for Zone 1, 2, 3, or 4.
When enabled, the LED illuminates.
• For the Xboard 25, 49, or 61, Enable Zones in the Xboard Control software.
See the Xboard Owner’s Manual PDF.

E-MU Systems 28
Basic Operations

Note Latch Mode

This is a performance mode in which a selected range of keys can be set to Latch. A
latched key remains on when pressed once. Pressing the key again turns the note
off. Latched notes can be useful to trigger loops or repeating rhythmic patterns
without having to hold the key.
Latched notes work differently depending on whether Zones are enabled or
disabled.

Latch Mode, Zones Disabled

Any range of keys (0-127) can be specified as latch notes. Therefore, you could set
a range of latch keys that are only accessible with the keyboard transposed down,
so as to be out the way in normal operation. Note that you cannot set a low key
number higher that the high key, or a high key number lower than the low key.
Note latching is independent per MIDI channel. Notes can remain latched on a
given channel while you switch to a different channel, either via direct channel
setting change or via patch load. Additional notes can be latched on the new
channel.
Turning Latch Mode off manually with the Latch button switches off all latched
notes, regardless of their channel or the sequence in which they were latched.
Latched notes are NOT switched off upon loading a new patch in which Latch
Mode is OFF. To turn these notes off, either return to the original MIDI channel
and play the same notes again, or manually switch Latch Mode ON and then OFF.
Latching Notes

These notes play normally

Latch Latch
Low Note High Note

 To Select Latch Mode:

1. Press the Latch button. The Latch LED illuminates.
2. Press the button again to exit Latch Mode. The LED goes off.

XBoard 29
Basic Operations

 To Set the Keyboard Range of Latched Notes:

1. Low Key -> Press the Edit button, illuminating the LED.
2. Press the keyboard key marked Latch Low Note.
3. Press the keyboard key of the lowest note you want to be in Latch Mode.
4. Press Enter to confirm the operation. Press Home to cancel the operation.
5. High Key -> Press the Edit button, illuminating the LED.
6. Press the keyboard key marked Latch High Note.
7. Press the keyboard key of the Highest note you want to be in Latch Mode.
8. Press Enter to confirm the operation. Press Home to cancel the operation.

Latch Mode, Zones Enabled

If you have Zones enabled, the Latch Low Note and High Note settings are
ignored. Instead, Latch Mode is handled on a per-zone basis. Use the Xboard
Control software to turn latch mode on or off for each Zone. See the Xboard
Owner’s Manual PDF for more information.
For zones with Latch Mode enabled, turning on Latch mode using the Latch
button on your Xboard turns on latch for those zones.
Turning Latch Mode off manually with the Latch button switches off all latched
notes, regardless of their channel or the sequence in which they were latched.
Latched notes are NOT switched off upon loading a new patch in which Latch
Mode is OFF. To turn these notes off, either return to the original MIDI channel
and play the same notes again, or manually switch Latch Mode ON and then OFF.

Snap Shot
The Xboard can store the settings of the 16 knobs and footpedal/footswitch with
the Patch. When the Snap Shot button is pressed, the currently stored settings of all
performance controls (knobs, wheels, footpedal) are transmitted. The initial
setting of the footswitch is not transmitted.
Note: Snap Shot cannot transmit values for controls that are set to NRPN mode.
Here’s an example of how you might use this feature. The knob settings can be
stored with the Patch, and can either be transmitted when the Patch is selected or
not. For the purpose of this example, suppose the knob settings are NOT transmitted
when the Patch is selected. At a certain point in your song, you could press Snap
Shot and completely change the sound by sending the stored controller messages.
This feature can also be used in conjunction with the Knob Bypass control to set
up, and then send a group of MIDI continuous controllers messages at once. See
the description of “Bypass Mode” below.

E-MU Systems 30
Basic Operations

Bypass Mode
When you move a controller knob on the Xboard, the position value is immedi-
ately transmitted via MIDI. Knob Bypass disables the transmission of MIDI
messages from the knobs or control pedal/footswitch.
Bypass mode allows you to pre-set the knobs to a known position in order to
avoid abrupt parameter jumps in performance when you turn the knob.
When Bypass is On, you can set the knobs anywhere you like without sending
MIDI controller messages. When you turn Bypass Off again, nothing is trans-
mitted, but the knobs are now in the desired position for your performance. When
you turn a knob, the value of the new position will be sent.
This feature can also be used in conjunction with the Snap Shot feature. In Bypass
mode, moving the controller knobs temporarily changes the stored settings.
Pressing Snap Shot in Bypass mode transmits the stored settings with any changes
you made while in Bypass mode.
Note: Snap Shot cannot transmit values for controls that are set to NRPN mode.

Editing Patch and Device Settings

Many editable settings are accessed using the labelled keyboard keys or other
controls.

 To Edit a Setting:
1. Press the Edit button. The Edit LED illuminates.
2. Select the desired setting by pressing one of the marked keyboard keys. (The
Velocity Curve is being edited in the example below.)
3. Adjust the value of the parameter using the data slider, the numeric
keyboard keys, the Octave Transpose buttons, or the Numeric Keypad
(Xboard 61 only). The Enter button will be flashing.
4. Press Enter to confirm the operation. Press Home to cancel the operation.
5. Remember to Store the Patch or your changes will be lost the next time you
recall a stored patch, or when the Xboard is turned off. See page 26.

XBoard 31
Basic Operations

Scrolling Text Display

In Edit mode, and in some other situations, the 3-digit numeric display serves
double duty as a scrolling text display. When you first press the Edit button, the
word “SELECt” scrolls continuously across the display, prompting you to select an
edit parameter as described above. Once an edit parameter is selected, the current
value of the parameter is displayed. After a short delay, the edit parameter name
begins scrolling periodically across the display as a reminder of which parameter
you’re editing. Once you enter a value, the display stops scrolling.
You’ll notice that the scrolling messages mix upper and lower case characters. This
is a necessary compromise to display alphabetical characters on a numeric display.

E-MU Systems 32
Basic Operations

Edit Parameters
These parameters are accessed via the Edit button. See “Editing Patch and Device
Settings” on page 31 for detailed instructions about how to access the Edit mode.

PGM Send on Recall

Every Xboard patch stores a MIDI program change number (as well as Bank Select
MSB and LSB settings) for each of the 16 MIDI channels. The “PGM Send On
Recall” setting is a master switch which enables or disables transmission of the
stored MIDI program change settings when a patch is recalled.
Select on to transmit the program changes, etc. stored in a patch when that patch is
recalled. This allows you to reconfigure all of your MIDI instruments at once by
simply recalling that patch. Select oFF if you don’t want the stored program
changes transmitted on patch recall.
This feature has a couple of tricky aspects which you need to be aware of in order
to use it as intended:
• In addition to the master on/off switch, there is also an on/off switch per
MIDI channel. When the master switch is set to on, program changes will be
sent upon patch recall only on channels whose per-channel on/off switch is
also set to on in the patch. This allows you to restrict program change sends
to only the desired channels. However, unlike the master switch, these per-
channel switch settings can only be modified using the Xboard Control editor
application. Since all of these switches are set to off by default, full setup of
this feature is possible only using that application.

• The master and per-channel on/off settings, as well as the program change
and bank select numbers, are stored in and recalled from patches. They are
not global settings and can be different from one patch to the next. Since they
are applied immediately following recall of a patch, these settings must
already be stored in a patch in order to have any effect upon what happens
when the patch is recalled, and will apply only to that patch. It follows that
the patch must be stored again anytime these settings get changed –
otherwise, any changed settings will be lost.

Send Program Change

This function sends MIDI program changes to your external gear on the currently
selected Basic MIDI channel. (At the same time, it edits the program change number for
the current MIDI channel in the active patch. See “PGM Send on Recall” on page 33 for
more info.)
Note that the program change send includes a send of Bank Select MSB and Bank
Select LSB according to the settings for those parameters on the same MIDI
channel in the current patch. See page 34.

XBoard 33
Basic Operations

 To Send an External Program Change Via the Main Control Panel

1. Press the Edit button.
2. Press the Send Prog Change keyboard key.
3. Select the desired program change number from 0-127 using the Data Slider,
Octave Transpose buttons, or numeric keyboard keys.
4. Press Enter to send the program change.
5. Press Home to exit without sending the program change. (This also leaves the
program change setting for the current MIDI channel unmodified in the active patch.)
 To Send an External Program Change (Xboard 61)
1. Make sure the Program Change Mode button’s LED is lit. If not press the
button to light it.
2. Use the Direct Patch Select numerical buttons to enter a one- to three-digit
program change number. Use the button labeled “10” to enter a “0.”
3. Do one of the following:
• If Zones are enabled, press the corresponding Zone button for the MIDI
channel you want to send the Program change across. If you want to send
the Program Change over the current MIDI channel, press Enter or the
Program Change Mode button (they will be blinking).
• If Zones are not enabled, press Enter or the Program Change Mode button
(they will both be blinking).

Bank Sel MSB

This parameter allows you to select the MIDI Bank Select MSB (most significant
byte) that will be used when sending program changes via the Prog Change, PGM
Browse Mode or PGM Send On Recall features.
Select a Bank MSB from 0-127. Note that this merely edits the Bank Select MSB
setting for the current MIDI channel in the active patch. It does not cause a MIDI
message to be sent immediately.
For more information on MIDI Bank Select commands, see the Xboard Owner’s Manual
PDF.

Bank Sel LSB

This parameter allows you to select the MIDI Bank Select LSB (least significant
byte) that will be used when sending program changes via the Send Prog Change,
PGM Browse Mode or PGM Send On Recall features.
Select a Bank Select LSB from 0-127. Note that this merely edits the Bank Select
MSB setting for the current MIDI channel in the active patch. It does not cause a
MIDI message to be sent immediately. For more information on MIDI Bank Select
commands, see the Xboard Owner’s Manual PDF.
E-MU Systems 34
Basic Operations

Program Change (PGM) Browse Mode

This function allows you to play the keyboard and use the wheels and rotary
controls while browsing through MIDI programs. Program change messages are
sent on the Basic MIDI channel as described above (See “Send Program Change”
on page 33.). This includes sending Bank Select MSB and Bank Select LSB
according to current settings for that MIDI channel in the active patch.

 To Browse MIDI Program Changes

1. Press the Edit button.
2. Press the PGM Browse Mode keyboard key. The display shows the current
program change setting for the patch’s basic MIDI channel.
3. Select the desired program change number using the Data Slider or the
Octave Transpose buttons. The program change numbers are shown on the
display. (In order to avoid sending continuous barrages of program change
messages which might confuse receiving equipment, program change
messages are transmitted only when the slider stops moving for one second.
The display will briefly show “---” whenever this occurs.) You can play the
keyboard and use other performance controllers to audition the selected
program.
4. Press Enter.
Press Home to leave the program change setting for the current MIDI channel
unmodified in the active patch. The unmodified setting is used in one final
program change message send to restore the previously-loaded program in
any device which is receiving on that channel.

CC Send On Recall
Every Xboard patch stores an initial value (position) setting for each of the 16
Controller Knobs, the Pitch Wheel, the Mod Wheel and the Footpedal. The “CC
Send On Recall” setting enables or disables transmission of these stored values
when a patch is recalled.
Select on to transmit the values stored in a patch when that patch is recalled. In
conjunction with the “Save CC Values In Patch” feature, which lets you control the
settings which get stored in a patch (see below), this allows you to simultaneously
preset many individual parameters of your MIDI instruments exactly as desired, by
simply recalling that patch. (If “PGM Send On Recall” is also switched on in the
same patch, the program changes are sent first, followed by the controller
messages, so that the controller messages will affect the newly-loaded programs.)
When set to oFF, the continuous controller settings will not be transmitted when
the patch is selected.

XBoard 35
Basic Operations

Note: This feature has a tricky aspect which you need to be aware of in order
to use it as intended:
The “CC Send On Recall” setting is stored in and recalled from patches. It is
not a global setting and can be different from one patch to the next. Since it is
applied immediately following recall of a patch, this setting must be stored in
a patch in order to have any effect upon what happens when the patch is
recalled, and will apply only to that patch. It follows that the patch must be
stored again anytime this setting gets changed – otherwise, the changed
setting will be lost.

Save CC Value in Patch

This setting is useful in conjunction with the “CC Send On Recall” feature (see
above). When this parameter is set to On, the current initial value (position)
settings of the 16 Controller Knobs, the Pitch Wheel. the Mod Wheel and the
Footpedal will be stored in a patch when the patch is stored. If this setting is oFF,
the existing controller initial value settings in the patch are retained, even if you
have adjusted one or more controls in the meantime. Therefore, turning this
option oFF effectively “locks” the controller initial value settings into the patch.
Note that this setting is applied when you store a patch, not just after the patch is
recalled, and is thus effective immediately upon being changed – unlike some
settings discussed above, it doesn't need to first be stored in a patch in order to
become effective.
Note: You cannot save values for controllers that are set to NRPN mode.

Tips for Use…

Assuming you wish to use the “CC Send On Recall” feature with a particular patch,
turn this option on while editing the controller initial value settings in that patch.
Once you’ve stored the patch with the desired initial controller settings, switch this
option oFF and store the patch one more time. This will save the oFF setting for
this option in the patch. Since the on/oFF setting will also be recalled whenever
you recall the patch, the oFF setting ensures that the initial controller settings
won’t be accidentally overwritten if you later change some other setting in the
patch and store it again. If you later want to change one or more of these settings,
simply switch the setting back on before storing the patch with the updated
settings (and don’t forget afterwards to switch the option back oFF and store the
patch again as described above, to lock in the updated settings).

E-MU Systems 36
Basic Operations

Aftertouch On/Off
When Aftertouch is On, the keyboard will transmit channel aftertouch messages.
Aftertouch is transmitted when additional pressure is applied to the keyboard after
the keys have been pressed.
Select on to turn Aftertouch on, or oFF to turn it off.
Note: This setting, unlike most of the settings described in this section, is a device
setting, which is not stored in or recalled from patches. It is thus also a global
setting which affects all patches in common – or rather, it affects device behavior
independently of patches.

Semitone Transpose
The keyboard can be transposed up or down in one-semitone steps. Transpose
works by shifting the keyboard position relative to middle C.
The transposition range is -64 to +63 semitones.

Velocity Curve Select

This function selects one of the eight velocity curves to customize the feel of the
keyboard. When playing a velocity-sensitive sound (such as piano), select a curve
that provides the most natural response to your playing style.
Select a curve from 1 to 8.

1 2 3 4

Linear - No change Compressed - Medium - Outputs Compress/Limit -

to velocity. For hard players. medium velocity. Outputs medium
Compressed dynamics values. Limits dynamics.

5 6 7 8

Low Vel 1 - Extreme Low Vel 2 - Extreme Expanded - Expands Full Velocity - Only
compression. Outputs compression. Outputs velocity range. outputs full velocity.
low velocity values. low velocity values. Soft -> Loud.

You can also select the MIDI minimum velocity, which essentially reduces the
vertical scale of the above drawings. See page 41.

XBoard 37
Basic Operations

16 Channel CC Number
16 Channel Control mode is a special performance mode in which all 16 knobs
send one CC number on MIDI channels 1 through 16. This allows you to control a
single parameter on all 16 MIDI channels. See “16 Channel Control Mode” on
page 27 for more information about how to use this function.

Latch High/Low Note

These keys allow you to set the keyboard range for Latch mode. See page 29 for
detailed information about Latch mode.

X1 and X2 Functions
The X1 key accesses the X1 functions. These are global functions that affect all
patches. For example, if Pedal is set to Sus, it will remain so for all patches.
• Mid - Out or Thru - When Out is selected, the MIDI output transmits local
data from the keyboard and knobs. When Thru is selected, the MIDI output
transmits data from the host application.
• PEd - Selects between a footswitch (SuS) or a continuous footpedal (ctL)
• ind - Turns the decimal point USB/MIDI indicators on or off. See page 17.
• Zod - Turns the zones status message on or off.
• PbM - Determines the behavior of the Numeric Keypad after you send a
program change.
• CAL - The Calibration sub-menu. The functions here allow you to make very
specific calibrations. These settings are intended for advanced users.

The X2 key accesses the X2 functions. These are global functions which affect only
the active patch. For example, if you turn Zones off it will remain so for only the
active patch.
• ZoE - Enables and disables Zones functions in the active patch.

 To Select one of the X1 or X2 Functions

1. Press the Edit button. The Edit LED illuminates.
2. Select X1 or X2.
3. Adjust the data slider or use the Octave Transpose buttons to view the
functions.
4. Press Enter to select the desired function.
5. Select the desired value using the data slider or the Octave Transpose buttons
(except with CAL).
6. Press Enter to confirm your selection. Press Home to cancel the operation.

E-MU Systems 38
Basic Operations

X1 Menu Items
The following is a description of the items located in the X1 menu.

MIDI (Mid)
The Xboard can function as a MIDI interface between your computer applications
and external MIDI gear. When set to Thru, MIDI data from your computer appli-
cation is transmitted on the Xboard’s MIDI output jack. When Out is selected, the
MIDI output transmits local data from the keyboard and knobs.
Xboard keyboard and controller data is NOT transmitted from the MIDI output
when this function is set to Thru. (Keyboard/Controller data is always sent via USB.)

Pedal (PEd)
This function sets up the Footswitch / Footpedal input to accept a switch or a
variable pedal control input.
• SuS = Sustain or footswitch input. In this mode, the Xboard automatically
senses the footswitch polarity on power up (either normally-open, or
normally-closed). Because of the automatic sensing feature, you should not
hold down the footswitch during power up or the switch action will be
reversed.
• ctL = Control Pedal. The Xboard accepts control pedals wired as shown in the
Xboard Owner’s Manual PDF.

Indicators (ind)
The decimal points in the LED indicate USB and MIDI activity. Select on or oFF.
1st = USB In; 2nd = USB Out; 3rd = MIDI Out.

Zones On/Off Status Display (Zod)

Select On or Off.
If on, when you select a new patch, the Edit LED display shows a message
indicating whether zones enabled or disabled in the new patch. This is especially
useful for the Xboard 25 and Xboard 49, since they don’t have a Zones Enable
button.

Patch Buttons Program Change Mode Auto-Disable (PbM)

With this setting on, the Program Change Mode button turns off automatically
after you send a program change, returning the numeric keypad to Direct Patch
Select Mode.
With this setting off, the Numeric Keypad remains in Program Change mode after
you send a program change.

XBoard 39
Basic Operations

Calibrate Sub-Menu (CAL)

When you select CAL and press Enter, you are taken to the CAL sub-menu, which
contains calibration functions. To select a function, use the data slider to select a
Calibration function, and press Enter. To cancel, press Home.

CCM
This feature enables you to calibrate any control on your Xboard, one at a time,
optimizing your Xboard’s action for your playing technique.
After you select the CCM function and press Enter, all LEDs on the Xboard turn off
(except the display, which says “adjust a control”). This is Calibration Standby
mode. What you do next depends on which control you want to calibrate.

 To Calibrate a Controller Knob, Mod Wheel, or Data Entry Slider:

1. Sweep through all possible values without pressing harder either direction
than you normally would. As you adjust, the display shows raw control
values, reverting to the name of the control you are adjusting.
2. Press Enter to store the calibration, or press Home to back out of the
process. You are returned to the Calibration Standby mode.
3. Press Enter to calibrate another control, or Home to finish.

 To Calibrate the Pitch Wheel:

1. Sweep through all possible values without pressing harder in either direc-
tion than you normally would. As you adjust, the display shows raw
control values, reverting to the word “Pit” (as in “Pitch Wheel”).
2. Let the Pitch Wheel spring back to its normal position in the center.
3. Press the illuminated Snap Shot button. The Edit LED should say “Ctr”
(as in “Center”). You can repeat this step as many times as you want.
4. Press Enter. You are returned to the Calibration Standby mode.
5. Press Enter to calibrate another control, or Home to finish.

 To Calibrate Aftertouch using One or More Keys:

1. Press and hold the key(s) you want to use for calibration. Use the maximum
amount of force you want for Aftertouch. The Edit LED alternates between
the current key value and the word “Aft” (as in “Aftertouch”).
2. Press and hold the key(s) with the minimum amount of force at which you
want the Xboard to begin sending Aftertouch messages.
3. While holding the key(s), press the Snap Shot button. The Edit LED should
say “tHr” (as in Threshold).You can repeat this step as many times as you
want.

E-MU Systems 40
Basic Operations

4. Press Enter to store the calibration, or press Home to back out of the
process. You are returned to the Calibration Standby mode.
5. Press Enter to calibrate another control, or Home to finish.

MIDI Minimum Velocity (UMi)

This setting allows you to choose the lowest possible velocity for your Xboard.
Raising the lowest possble velocity keeps the shape of the velocity curves, but in
effect “crunches” them. Look at the example below. If you’re using Velocity Curve
1, and you change the low velocity to 28, the curve maintains the same shape, but
has a smaller vertical scale.

1 1

Low Velocity = 1 (default) Low Velocity = 28

Bear in mind that you aren’t changing the actual Velocity Curve— you’re changing
a device setting that affects all velocity curves the same way. So, if you switch to a
different velocity curve, the Low Velocity stays the same.

Velocity Sense Time Limit Low (tLo)

Select a Value between 0 and 998 (default value: 20).
This sets the lower limit for keystroke timing, and thus adjusts the detection of
maximum velocity. The lower you set this setting, the harder you will have to strike
the keys in order to produce a maximum-velocity MIDI Note On message. Below a
setting of 10 or so, you may find it impossible to produce a maximum-velocity
MIDI Note On message.

Velocity Sense Time Limit High (tHi)

Select a Value between 1 and 999 (default value: 255).
This sets the upper limit for keystroke timing, and thus adjusts the detection of
minimum velocity. The higher you set this setting, the softer you will have to strike
the keys in order to produce a minimum-velocity MIDI Note On message.
Note that increasing the Low setting beyond the existing High setting will result in
the High setting being changed automatically so that it remains higher than the
new Low setting, and vice versa. Setting the velocity sense time limit values too
close to one another will result in jumpy, "either/or" playing dynamics (either very
loud or very soft).

XBoard 41
Basic Operations

Aftertouch Sense Level Limit Low (ALo)

Select a Value between 0 and 998 (default value: 80).
This sets the lower limit for the Aftertouch sensing circuit. It is thus the threshold
setting, which determines how much pressure you have to apply in order to make
the Xboard begin sending Aftertouch messages. If this setting is adjusted too low,
you may find it difficult to play the keyboard without sending Aftertouch messages.

Aftertouch Sense Level Limit High (AHi)

Select a Value between 1 and 999 (default value: 600).
This sets the upper limit for the Aftertouch sensing circuit. It thus determines how
much pressure you have to apply in order to make the Xboard send a maximum-
value Aftertouch message. If this setting is adjusted too high, you may find it
impossible to produce a maximum-value Aftertouch message, regardless of how
hard you press.
Note that increasing the Low setting beyond the existing High setting will result in
the High setting being changed automatically so that it remains higher than the
new Low setting, and vice versa. Setting the aftertouch sense level limit values too
close to one another will result in jumpy, "either/or" response (either no aftertouch
or maximum aftertouch).

X2 Menu Items
The following is a description of the items located in the X1 menu.

Zones Enable in Patch (ZoE)

Tuns all zones on or off in the active patch. For the Xboard 61, this serves the exact
same function as the Zones Enable button. It is most useful on the Xboard 25 or
Xboard 49, since they don’t have a Zones Enable button.

E-MU Systems 42
Basic Operations

Read the Complete Manual

The complete Xboard manual, includeing instructions on the Xboard Control
software, is available in PDF format on the included CD-ROM and installs with the
Xboard software.

 To view the manual:

1. Make sure you’ve installed Adobe Acrobat reader.
2. From the Start menu, select Programs, Creative Professional, E-MU Xboard
Documents, Owners Manual.

XBoard 43
Basic Operations

E-MU Systems 44
Index

INDEX D
Data Slider 17, 25
calibration 40
Data, entering 25
Driver Problems 13

E
Edit Button 17
E-MU USB MIDI Driver, not installed 13
Enter Button 18
External Program Change
Numerics sending 34
16 Channel CC Number 38 sending, Xboard 61 34
16 Channel Control Mode 27
button 19 F
3D MIDI 20 Flashing Decimal Points, on/off 39
6 Volt DC Power Jack 23 Footswitch Type 23
Footswitch/Footpedal Input 23
A
Activity Indicators 17 H
Aftertouch Home Button 17
calibration 40, 42 I
Aftertouch On/Off 37 Increment/Decrement Buttons 18, 25
All Notes Off, sending MIDI 18 Indicators, MIDI 17
B Interface, using Xboard as a MIDI 10, 23, 39
Back Panel Jacks 23 J
Bank Send LSB 34 Jumping Knob Values 31
Bank Send MSB 38
Basic MIDI Channel Selection 26 K
Batteries, operating with 24 Keyboard USB, don’t use 9
Battery Type 24 Knob Bypass 31
Browse Program Changes 35 button 19
Bypass Mode 31 Knobs, programming 27, 28
Bypass, knob 19
L
C Latch Mode 29
Calibration Menu 40 button 19
Calibration Standby mode 40 zones disabled 29
CC Number zones enabled 30
16 channel mode 38 Loops, triggering with the Xboard 29
changing 27 Lost Communication, Xboard & audio app 13
CC Send On Recall 35
Channel Select Button 19 M
Connection Diagrams 9 Microsoft USB MIDI driver problem 13
Controller CC Channel MIDI
Changing 27 activity indicator 17
Controller Knobs 20 channel select button 19
transmit as a “snapshot” 30 channel, changing 26
connection diagram 9

XBoard 45