MIDI Target Manufacturer(s): Korg
The Korg Volca Drum is one of my favourite Volcas. The Volca series can be serious fun for minimalist jamming but the Volca Drum has the ability to create some truly pro sounds. The only problem however, in comparison to the others in the series, is that much of the control is hidden behind a tedious interface. This layout aims to make them easier to use.
The Volca Drum has two main modes of operation.
* One Voice per Midi Channel (Factory Default)
* Six Voices to one Midi Channel (Setting the Volca Drum to a specific Midi Channel)
(See the Midi implementation for more info on Korg’s Website)
I find the Default setting the best and this layout targets that setting.
There are six sounds. One drum sound to each panel. Each sound is assigned to midi Channel 1 – 6.
The parameters for each drum sound are assigned a standard Midi CC. (See Korgs implementation chart for info)
The controls in each panel are contained within a hidden Midi Channel control which is visible in design mode - Midi Channel 1 – 6. (You shouldn’t really ever have to touch it though)
For those familiar with the Volca Drum, the layout is very easy to understand and I won’t delve into too much detail.
The Wave Guide effect is the same for each channel and these controls are just copies of the same control, spread through the six panels.
Notes:
* The Tube/String buttons work, however they do not switch the led on and off on the Volca’s display. This is a bug essentially on the Volca, as it doesn’t track the Midi CC buffer but it makes little difference.
* All Volca Drum parameters are actually 256 steps; however, the Midi CC implementation uses only 128 (14 bit CC). This is hard coded by Korg and cannot be changed, so the panel has half the resolution of the controls on the actual device, although, I found this isn’t much of a limitation to sound design. If you require more fine-tuned tweaks, simply go to the device.
Have fun, and kudos to Dan for the great work on MD2. Keep it up mate.
Cheers from Australia.
Images
Korg Volca Drum
VolcaDrum 1.1
