Quick Start
Introduction
SetupProgram
Combination
Sequencer
SamplingGlobalMediaEffectKARMA
Drum Track
Other
Appendices
163
Using KARMA
Overview
What is KARMA?
KARMA stands for Kay Algorithmic Realtime Music
Architecture, named after its inventor, Stephen Kay.
The KARMA function generates MIDI data, using
many different algorithms seamlessly integrated to
provide a powerful “music generation engine.” Based
on the notes and chords you play, KARMA generates
phrases and patterns in real-time, generating not just
notes but MIDI control data as well. The KARMA
architecture allows the various algorithms to be
reconfigured and varied in realtime, as you play them.
For example, you can create the dynamic tempo
changes that occur within a harp glissando, the
synchronized changes in volume and tone that occur
as part of a brass phrase, the randomness within a
drum phrase, the crescendo and diminuendo of a fill-
in, changes in phrase or tone of a techno groove,
complex interweaving phrases that would be
impossible to play on a keyboard, guitar strumming
and finger-picking simulations with natural-sounding
changes, and backing grooves that follow your
keyboard playing in realtime – all under your control.
KARMA lets you produce phrases and patterns at a far
more musical and flexible level than conventional
arpeggiators or pattern playback functions.
On the M3, the KARMA function is designed to work
in close conjunction with the numerous other
functions, giving you unbelievable performance power
on stage or in the studio.
The structure of the KARMA
function
The KARMA function consists of the following major
parts.
KARMA modules
A KARMA module uses a GE to generate phrases or
patterns.
In Program mode, only one KARMA module (A) is
used.
In Combination or Sequencer modes, four KARMA
modules (A, B, C, D) can be used. For example, each
module might be used to generate phrases and
patterns for a separate sound, such as drums, bass,
guitar, and piano.
In Program mode, the KARMA module transmits
and receives all MIDI data on the Global MIDI
channel specified by MIDI Channel.
In Combination and Sequencer modes, the MIDI
data from each KARMA module is transmitted
and received on the In (Input Channel) and Out
(Output Channel) specified for each module.
GE (Generated Effect)
The phrases and patterns produced by a KARMA
module are generated by the GE.
Note data from the keyboard will affect how note data
will be developed; and how rhythm, chord structure,
and velocity etc. will be controlled to generate a phrase
or pattern. MIDI control changes and pitch bend data
can also be generated in synchronization with the
phrase or pattern. As a capability unique to the M3, the
KARMA function can generate MIDI exclusive
messages to control wave sequencing, which switches
between multisamples etc. of a program in realtime.
This lets you create phrases and patterns in which the
tone color and note pitches change independently.
MIDI IN
USB B
GE
(Generated Effect)
MIDI OUT
USB B
Tone
generator
KARMA function
KARMA module
parameters
Phrases or
patterns
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