Re: Questions about Scala/TX81Z

Joseph,

Here is the procedure for tuning the TX81z. Pat Pagano might also be able
to help if this does not work. It should work perfectly:

In Scala:

1. SET SYNTH 101
2. create or load your scale and optional keyboard map
3. SEND/FILE filename.mid (it should show up in the scala directory)
4. Then use a sequencer to play the above file at a very slow tempo - like
about 16 beats per measure. send the output through soundblaster midi out.
You might be able to push the tempo higher if the 'Z will let you. If not
it will say BUFFER FULL or something like that. Later versions of the mod
could handle faster dump tempos.

Before you send the midi tuning dump set up the 'Z:

1. Hit utility bullon - I think you need to be in play single mode first
2. Edit Micro tune? Press "Yes"
3. Hit right parameter button twice till it says Edit full keyboard? Press
"Yes"
4. Then play your tuning dump as above.

If you did it properly, then you will see the display flash through every
note name with corresponding tuning data.

You will need to remain in utility mode to have the microtuning on. If you
then press play/perform you will go into play single mode and you can then
change the patch, but it will be in 12 TET. To return to microtune press
utility/yes/right parameter twice/Yes for Full keyboard and you will return
to microtuned mode.

If you then turn off the module, its memory will retain the tuning.

>
> Anyway, I've checked to see that the TX81Z is set to "write protect off"

I don't think this matters

> and on midi receive channel 1.

You can also set it to OMNI mode. which will receive on all channels.
Somewhere in there I think there is a parameter for setting microtuning on
other than what I described above (assuming that what I described does not
work). You might just try smashing button until/if it comes up. Thats how
I learned to use the 'Z.

Wait!!!
I smashed a bit and and here it is:

1. Press play/perform to get into performance mode (pF....)
2. Edit/Compare
3. Right Parameter till you get to MICTUN=Full. If cursor is not on FULL
(top line) then left master volume till it is.
4. Use DATA ENTRY buttons until it says MICTUN=FULL
5. Move cursor and set each channel to ON
6. Play/perform to get to play single then follow procedure to set single
microtuning full keyboard on.

It seems from the above that perhaps you can be in performance mode and have
full microtuning. I haven't tried it. And you may not need to do the above
to have microtuning on in single mode.

> I am using a Soundblaster Awe 64 as my midi interface. Perhaps that is
the
> problem (??)

Definitely NOT the problem. Don't get another soundcard unless you think
the SB is really busted.

> I should mention that I have to have a sequencer program "up and running"
> in order to hear sounds from my midi keyboard (midi out only) going THRU
> the Soundblaster (not playing it) to the TX81Z,

This makes sense. You sequencer opens the MIDI OUT port. Make sure that it
is sending on channel 1 or whatever channel the 'Z is set for. You are
using a joystick port to MIDI cable correct? The OUT cable connects to the
MIDI IN on the 'Z. Switch the cables if the above does not work.

>so I was assuming that
> maybe all the different "levels" of hardware and software involved with
> this could create the impass...(??)

I doubt it.

> Is there some way to try to set the Soundblaster to receive data from
> "gsplay" that I am not trying?? I'm not certain how to set it at all,
> although probably I should print out a Soundblaster on-line manual...

There is nothing to do with the SB. Scrap gsplay and use a regular
sequencer where you can set the tempo manually more easily.

Good luck and let me know if it works. The 'Z is a great little box for the
money although I think the FM sounds are seriously not to great.

Darren Burgess
South East Just Intonation Society
Gainesville FL