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36 parts
36 parts
2
ROM
MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB
16-step sequencer
200 different effects
12 bit, 42 kHz, Loop, One Shot (Phrase) Multi-sample. 4 x 9 seconds (Long Mode), 32 x 0-3 seconds (Short Mode)
Sat, 03/28/2020 - 12:58
Casio released the XW-PD1 in 2015 and while it looks like a toy version of the Millenium Falcon from Star Wars, it is actually an all-in-one machine aimed at synth fans. Packed into its surprisingly compact body you'll find a synthesizer, sequencer, sampler, effects, as well as speaker and batteries for music creation on the go. The idea with the XW-PD1 was that users could build rhythms with ease and also quickly compose melodies with it.
The circular design of the XW-PD1 feels a little odd at first, but the layout actually makes sense. The left side of the device is dedicated to the selector panel where you will find things like the Power button, Step button, as well as Bank and Pattern button. Here you'll also find a small LCD. Above these are the Mix Fader, while below the selector panel there is an assignable fader. Finally, the Value knob, Volume knob, as well as FX1 and FX2 knobs can be found on the left side of the device. The entire rounded right-hand side of the XW-PD1 is dedicated to the sequence step keys and pads. The sequence step keys are laid out in a circular ring with the velocity-sensitive pads arranged in a four by four grid in the middle. The rear of the XW-PD1 is dedicated to a USB port, Line In terminal, Mic In terminal, Mic Volume knob, Line out L/R terminals, Phones terminals, and DC 9.5V terminal. The battery compartment, as well as the speaker, can be found at the bottom of the XW-PD1.
The XW-PD1 can be used to program your rhythms using its sequencer before adding things like basslines and melodies via the pads. Alternatively, you can use an external source to input audio and then use samples or effects on top. To get you started with programming your beats, Casio has included four banks of samples with the XW-PD1. Of course, you can also use your own samples, which can be imported using the data editor. For more expressive performances the XW-PD1 comes with 200 different effects.
The XW-PD1 can be used as a MIDI controller and has a very eye-catching design, but the real fun comes from using your own samples to create unique jams. It's very easy to use and actually a lot more compact than it looks. The inclusion of a lot of synth options also makes it very versatile.
http://www.vintagesynth.com/casio/XW-PD1...ove-center
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