The GSi GEMINI is a high-quality musical instrument, entirely designed and built in Italy, resulting from years of research and development in DSP audio software and hardware design. It is a sound module dedicated to keyboard players, offering a comprehensive range of keyboard sounds. The device features two independent DSP processors, effectively providing two identical sound modules within a single unit.
Function Description:
The GSi GEMINI is a versatile sound module that goes beyond simple sample playback. It incorporates 15 different synthesis engines, including physical modeling, virtual analog subtractive synthesis, and virtual tonewheel organ. This dual-DSP architecture allows for complex sound layering and processing. The module is equipped with 11 effect generators per DSP, offering a wide array of sound shaping possibilities. It comes with 128 presets, and users can create custom MIDI maps. An internal Wi-Fi antenna enables client connection for an editor web-app, allowing for intuitive control and editing from any computer or mobile device. The device provides balanced outputs, output level selection, and a headphone output. Wi-Fi password settings can be customized and reset.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Rating: 9V – 1.6 A
- Output Level: Selectable -10 dBu, +4 dBu, High Gain (~ +10 dBu)
- Headphone Output Max Load: 32 ohm
- Dimensions (Desktop): 26x7x19 cm
- Weight (Desktop): 1.5 Kg
- Dimensions (Rack): 48.5x4.5x19 cm
- Weight (Rack): 2 Kg
- Synthesis Engines: 15 types, including VB3-II virtual tonewheel organ, Combo Organ Type F, Combo Organ Type V, String Machine, Pipe Organ, Orchestra, Tines electric piano, Reed electric piano, Electric baby grand piano, Clavi electric piano, PM electric piano, MKS electric piano, Physical modeling trumpet, GVA-1 Virtual Analog synth, and GSP-01 Adaptive Sample Player.
- Effect Processors (per DSP): 11 types, including Wha-wha, Stereo Phaser, Stereo Chorus, Tremolo / Auto-panner / Ring modulator, Spring Reverb, Amp Simulator, Rotary effect simulator, Stereo Delay / Echo, Stereo Limiter, Digital reverb, and Equalizer.
- MIDI Channels: Each DSP responds to one MIDI Channel (default: DSP 1 on ch. 1, DSP 2 on ch. 4). VB3-II uses 3 MIDI channels (Upper, Lower, Pedalboard).
- USB Ports: Type-A "host" USB 2.0 port for preset bank import/export, software updates, and connecting class-compliant USB-MIDI devices (up to 500 mA current). Type-B USB 2.0 port for class-compliant USB-MIDI IN/OUT connection to a computer.
- Digital Audio Output: Coaxial S/PDIF (Fs = 44100 Hz – 16 bit, no dithering).
Usage Features:
The GSi GEMINI offers a user-friendly experience, both as a standalone unit and through its web-app editor.
Front Panel Controls (Standalone Unit):
The standalone unit features a basic control panel for recalling presets. It includes a 2x16 backlit LCD screen, two buttons with LEDs, and a rotary encoder.
- Preset Recall: To recall a preset on DSP 1, ensure its LED is illuminated, then turn the encoder to browse the preset list. The LED will flash, indicating browsing. Press the DSP 1 button to confirm the selection. To abort, press the other DSP button. The same process applies to DSP 2.
- MIDI Activity LED: Located near the encoder, it indicates the arrival of a note event matching the selected channels for DSP 1 or DSP 2.
- Volume Knob: A potentiometer on the front panel controls the left and right analog output levels and the headphone output. It does not affect the S/PDIF digital output.
Web-App Editor:
The Gemini Editor is an interactive web-app accessible via Wi-Fi from any modern device (tablets, smartphones, computers).
- Connection Methods:
- Method 1 (Direct Connection): Default method. The Gemini casts an SSID ("Gemini-xxxxxxxx"). Connect using the default password "00000000" (can be changed later). Access the editor by typing "Gemini/" or "192.168.1.1" in a browser.
- Method 2 (Connect to Wi-Fi Access Point): Allows the Gemini to connect to an existing Wi-Fi network, making it accessible from within your Local Area Network. Requires scanning for Wi-Fi networks, providing the access password, and a fixed LAN IP number (outside DHCP range).
- Home Page: Allows switching between DSP units and provides global options and functions.
- MIDI Channels: Configurable for each DSP. Default settings ensure compatibility with VB3-II's multi-channel requirements.
- Preset Volume: Option to recall or ignore the "Volume" parameter when switching presets.
- Global Tuning: Adjusts tuning for all synthesis engines (A=430 Hz to A=450 Hz, default 440 Hz). Requires a reboot to take effect.
- MIDI CC Map: Opens a page to assign any of the 127 CC numbers to any parameter.
- Files (Export and Import Presets): Presets are stored in a binary file. Users can export/import preset banks or single presets using a USB memory stick connected to the Type-A USB port.
- Preset List: Displays the 128 presets. Presets can be recalled independently on DSP 1 or DSP 2. Users can save presets by selecting one from the list, naming it, adding a description, and clicking "STORE."
- Sound List: Allows selection of one of the 15 synthesis engines. For GVA-1 and GSP-01, drop-down lists offer factory sub-presets or sample-sets as starting points.
- Edit Engine: Displays all parameters for the selected synth engine, with horizontal sliders for adjustment.
- Edit Effects: Effects are organized in colored boxes. Users can turn effects on/off and set their parameters. Each DSP has its own group of 11 effects, arranged in a serial sound path.
- USB Ports:
- Type-A "host" USB 2.0: Used for preset management, software updates, and connecting class-compliant USB-MIDI devices (e.g., keyboards, control surfaces).
- Type-B USB 2.0: Provides class-compliant USB-MIDI IN/OUT connection to a computer without requiring special drivers for Windows, OS X, or Linux.
Analog Line Outputs:
The Gemini features balanced TRS jack outputs, also supporting unbalanced connections. A 3-way switch allows selection of the preferred sound level:
- L = Low (-10 dB): For consumer-level equipment (home hi-fi, guitar/bass amps with "HI" input) using unbalanced cables.
- M = Middle (+4 dB): For professional-level equipment (mixers, powered amps, speakers) using balanced cables for cleaner signal and 6 dB gain.
- H = High (~ +10 dB): For very old amplification systems with low input impedance or weak preamplification. Use with caution as it may increase noise or distortion with normal equipment.
Maintenance Features:
- Safety Information: Do not open the instrument; repairs by qualified personnel only. Avoid rain, moisture, direct sunlight, and infiltration of liquids/powders. If liquids enter, remove power and contact a service center. Ensure ventilation holes are not obstructed. Do not use abrasive cleaners. Keep original packaging for transport. Use only the original power adapter (100-240 Vac compatible). Do not touch the AC adapter with wet hands.
- Warranty: 12 months manufacturer's warranty. Damages from misuse, improper maintenance, or transportation are not covered. Defective parts will be repaired or replaced at no charge. Product replacement is at the manufacturer's discretion.
- Wi-Fi Reset Button: Located at the back of the unit, this button restores the Wi-Fi configuration to default (Method 1 password "00000000"). Pushing it restarts the system (allow 10 seconds).
- Software Updates: The Type-A USB port can be used to update the software when new releases are available.
- Sample Library Expansion: The GSP-01 Sample Player can load custom GSi samplesets, and the library is expandable with future GSi releases.
The GSi GEMINI is also available as a plug-in expander version for the DMC-122, which has no control panel and connects directly to the DMC-122 expansion slot. Installation involves unscrewing the expansion panel, removing the connection cable, connecting the cable to the Gemini expansion, sliding the cable and inserting the expansion into the DMC-122, and tightening four screws. An instructional video is available on the GSi Gemini product page.
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