KORG SP-280 Digital Piano Owner’s Manual
- June 7, 2024
- KORG
Table of Contents
KORG SP-280 Digital Piano Owner’s Manual
**Precautions
**
Location
Using the unit in the following locations can result in a malfunction.
- In direct sunlight
- Locations of extreme temperature or humidity
- Excessively dusty or dirty locations
- Locations of excessive vibration
- Close to magnetic fields
Power supply
Please connect the designated AC adapter to an AC outlet of the correct voltage. Do not connect it to an AC outlet of voltage other than that for which your unit is intended.
Interference with other electrical devices
Radios and televisions placed nearby may experience reception interference. Operate this unit at a suitable distance from radios and televisions.
Handling
To avoid breakage, do not apply excessive force to the switches or controls.
Care
If the exterior becomes dirty, wipe it with a clean, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners such as benzene or thinner, or cleaning compounds or flammable polishes.
Keep this manual
After reading this manual, please keep it for later reference.
Keeping foreign matter out of your equipment
Never set any container with liquid in it near this equipment. If liquid gets into the equipment, it could cause a breakdown, fire, or electrical shock.
Be careful not to let metal objects get into the equipment. If something does slip into the equipment, unplug the AC adapter from the wall outlet. Then contact your nearest Korg dealer or the store where the equipment was purchased.
- All product names and company names are the trade- marks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
THE FCC REGULATION WARNING (for USA)
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reason- able protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in ac- cordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interfer- ence to radio communications. However, there is no guaran- tee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving
- Increase the separation between the equipment and
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for
If items such as cables are included with this equipment, you must use those included items. Unauthorized changes or modification to this system can void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
Notice regarding disposal (EU only)
When this “crossed-out wheeled bin” symbol is displayed on the product, owner’s manual, battery, or battery package, it signifies that when you wish to dispose of this product, manual, package or battery you must do so in an approved manner. Do not discard this product, manual, package or battery along with ordinary household waste. Disposing in the correct manner will prevent harm to human health and potential damage to the environment. Since the correct method of disposal will depend on the applicable laws and regulations in your locality, please contact your local administrative body for details. If the battery contains heavy metals in excess of the regulated amount, a chemical symbol is displayed be- low the “crossed-out wheeled bin” symbol on the battery or battery package.
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO CONSUMERS
This product has been manufactured according to strict specifications and voltage requirements that are applicable in the country in which it is intended that this product should be used. If you have purchased this product via the internet, through mail order, and/or via a telephone sale, you must verify that this product is intended to be used in the country in which you reside.
WARNING: Use of this product in any country other than that for which it is intended could be dangerous and could invalidate the manufacturer’s or distributor’s warranty.
Please also retain your receipt as proof of purchase otherwise your product may be disqualified from the manufacturer’s or distributor’s warranty.
Introduction
Main features
Thirty high-quality sounds
The SP-280 provides 30 built-in expressive high-quality sounds, including a stereo concert grand piano. You can use Layer mode to simultaneously play two sounds at once, or you can use Partner mode, which allows two people to play the same range, one on each half of the keyboard.
Effects
The SP-280 provides 3 built-in digital effects. These effects can adjust the brightness of the tone (Brilliance), simulate the natural ambience of a concert hall (Reverb) and add richness to the sound (Chorus).
Pedal effects
You can obtain the same damper effect as that of an acous- tic piano using the damper pedal that is included with the unit. You can also add the damper resonance to the classic piano and the grand piano tone (bank 1 and 2 of PIANO1). Furthermore, the damper pedal can function as a half damper pedal so that you can change the condition that the damper is applied by the depth to which the pedal is pressed.
Use optional pedal unit (sold separately) for soft and sostenuto effects in addition to the damper effect.
Metronome
The built-in metronome allows you to select the time sig- nature, tempo, and volume, and you can even choose a bell sound as the accent.
Touch control
You can choose from three different settings to adjust how the sound will respond to your keyboard playing dynamics.
Temperaments
For authentic performance of a wide range of music, the SP-280 allows you to select from nine temperaments, including the equal temperament, pure temperaments (major and minor), classical temperaments (Kirnberger and Werckmeister) as well as temperaments used with Middle Eastern and Indian folk music. When an acoustic piano sound is selected, the stretched tuning used on pianos is automatically selected.
Adjustable pitch
The Transpose function lets you change the pitch of the piano, and the Pitch Control function allows you to make finely tuned adjustments.
Two headphone jacks
Two headphone jacks (one each on the front and back of the SP-280) are provided, allowing two people to listen simultaneously.
LINE IN/LINE OUT jacks
When connecting a sound system or other electronic musical instrument to the LINE IN jack, sound from the connected device will be heard through the speakers of the SP-280. In addition, powered monitors or a recording system can be connected by using the LINE OUT jacks.
MIDI capabilities
The SP-280 supports the MIDI protocol, the standard that allows music data to be transferred between musical instruments and computers. MIDI allows two or more devices to control or be controlled by each other, and also allows you to use the SP-280 as a 16-part multitimbral tone generator.
Parts and their function
- Headphone () jack [front of SP-280]: The stereo mini plug of headphones can be inserted into this jack. The same sound from the headphone jack on the back of the SP-280 will be produced. When the headphone plug is inserted, no sound will be produced from the speakers.
- Power button: This button turns the SP-280 on or off.
- VOLUME Knob: Adjusts the volume for the speakers, the Output and the Phones conecters.
- PIANO SONG button/LED: This button is used to en- ter the Piano song mode, after which the LED lights up. Simultaneously pressing this button and the TRANS- POSE button enters the Sound demo song mode.
- TRANSPOSE button/LED: This button is used to ad- just While transposing, the LED lights up. Simultaneously pressing this button and the PIA- NO SONG button enters the Sound demo song mode.
- FUNCTION button/LED: This button is used to enter the Function mode, where pitch, temperament and other settings can be Hold down the button to enter the MIDI function mode, where MIDI settings can be specified. The LED lights up when the SP-280 enters the Function mode and blinks when it enters the MIDI function mode.
- TOUCH button: This button lets you select the key- board sensitivity.
- BRILLIANCE button: This button is used to adjust the brightness of the tone.
- REVERB button/LED: This button is used to turn on/ off the reverb, which adds ambience to the When turned on, the LED lights up.
- CHORUS button/LED: This button is used to turn on/ off the chorus, which adds richness to the When turned on, the LED lights up mode and the metronome.
- BANK button/LEDs: This button is used to select the desired sound bank. The LED for the bank that’s cur- rently selected will light up.
- Sound buttons: This button is used to select from 30 sounds (10 × 3 banks). Two buttons can be pressed to play two sounds simultaneously (Layer mode).
- Display: Shows settings, for example, for the Function mode and the metronome.
- UP/DOWN buttons: These buttons are used to select a value for the various settings.
- METRONOME button/LED: This button is used to start/stop the metronome. While the metronome is being used, the LED lights up. In addition, hold down the button to enter the Metronome settings mode, where various metronome settings can be specified.
- Music stand holes: Holes for installing the included music stand.
- MIDI (IN, OUT)connectors: Connectors that are used to connect other MIDI devices (sequencer, keyboards, etc).
- PEDAL jack: This jack is used to connect the included damper pedal.
- LINE OUT (L/MONO, R) jacks: These are the main audio output jacks. These jacks are where an external amplifying system would be connected to amplify the sound from the SP 280. (With a hi-fi system use the AUX or LINE IN connectors). To amplify the SP-280 in mono, connect the single L/MONO jack. Use the VOL- UME knob to set the output volume.
- LINE IN jack: This is a stereo mini jack for audio in- This jack is used to connect the audio output (AUX Out) of a sound system or other electronic musical in- strument. Adjust the input volume with the connected device.
- Headphone (PHONES) jack: The stereo mini plug of headphones can be inserted. The same sound from the headphone jack on the front of the SP-280 will be pro- When the headphone plug is inserted, no sound will be produced from the speakers.
- DC 19V jack: Connect the included AC adapter here.
Preparation and demo performances
Before you begin playing
About the included stand
If the stand is to be used, see the “Installing the stand” section on page 16 before connecting the AC adapter and attaching the music stand.
Connecting the Power
Connect the supplied AC adapter to the power cord. Insert the DC plug end into the DC19V jack on the rear panel of the unit. Next, plug the power cord into an AC outlet.
Pass the AC adapter cord through the cord hook so that the plug won’t be re-
moved from the jack accidentally. When you unhook the cord, don’t pull the
cord with force.
Be sure to use the AC adapter that came with your unit. Using other AC
adapters may cause the unit to malfunction.
Be sure to plug the unit into an AC outlet of the appropriate voltage.
Using the headphones
Use stereo headphones with a stereo mini plug.
Since there is one headphone jack on the back (Fig. 1) and one on the front
(Fig. 2), two people can listen simultaneously.
When the headphone plug is inserted into the headphone jack on the front or
back of the SP-280, no sound will be produced from the speakers. Use
headphones at night or when you don’t want disturb others.
If your headphones feature a standard-to-mini adapter plug, be sure to hold the adapter plug when you connect or disconnect the headphones.
To protect your hearing, do not listen to loud, high-volume sounds for a long period of time through headphones.
Using the music stand
Insert the pins on the included music stand into the music stand holes in
the rear panel. (Fig. 2).
Do not press down on the music stand with force, otherwise it may fall off the
SP-280.
Turning the instrument on
Press the power button to turn on the SP-280. (Fig. 3)
When the instrument is turned on, the button LEDs on the control panel will
light up. To turn the instrument off, press the power button again.
When the instrument is turned off, all functions and parameters, except the auto power off function, return to their factory default settings.
Auto power off function
When 30 minutes have passed without user input or an demo performance, the
instrument will be automatically turned off. To disable this function, turn
off the auto power off function (see page 12).
Adjust the volume
Rotate the VOLUME knob that’s located next to the power switch toward “MAX” to
raise the volume level.
Rotate it left toward “MIN” to lower the level. (Fig. 3)
The VOLUME knob controls the output level of the built-in speakers, the
headphones jacks and the LINE OUT jacks.
It is always better to start with a low volume and then increase gradually.
Using the LINE IN/LINE OUT jacks
Use the LINE IN jack to listen to the sound from another musical instrument
or sound system through the speakers of the SP-280. Connect this jack to the
output jack of the other musical instrument or sound system.
Use an audio cable with a stereo mini plug inserted into the SP-280 and a plug on the other end appropriate for the connected device.
Use the LINE OUT jacks, if you want to connect your SP- 280 to a mixer, stereo hi-fi, or a couple of active monitors. When using a stereo hi-fi, connect the LINE OUTs to the AUX or LINE inputs. For mono amplification, connect only the L/MONO jack.
You must only connect devices with the power turned off. Careless operation may damage the SP-280 or the device where it’s connected, or malfunctions may be caused.
Connection cables are sold separately. You will need to obtain the appropriate commercially-available cables for your equipment.
Listening to a demo song
The SP-280 contains a total of 30 demo performances (10 demo songs using 10
high-quality sounds and 20 familiar piano songs using the piano sounds).
During playback of a sound demo song, you can play using the keyboard;
however, the sound cannot be changed by using the sound buttons.
During playback of a sound demo song, the settings for effects (reverb and
chorus) cannot be changed.
Listening to a demo song
-
Simultaneously press the PIANO SONG button and the TRANSPOSE button.
The PIANO SONG LED blinks, and the LEDs for the sound buttons blink sequentially. In addition, the number for the sound demo song (d01) appears in the display. -
-
After about 3 seconds, the PIANO1 LED blinks, and playback of the demo song corresponding to that but- ton begins. When playback of the PIANO1 demo song is finished, playback continues sequentially with PIANO2, E.PIANO1, etc. When playback of the CHOIR demo song is finished, playback begins again with the PIA- NO1 demo song.
Listening to a specific sound demo song
When the LEDs for the sound buttons are blinking sequentially, press the
sound button for the demo song that you want to hear. If a different sound
button is pressed, even while a song is being played, playback of the
corresponding demo song begins after a few seconds. In addition, a song can be
selected by pressing the UP or DOWN button beside the display.
-
-
- To stop playback of a demo song, press the PIANO SONG button again.
Sound demo song list
- To stop playback of a demo song, press the PIANO SONG button again.
-
Display
|
Sound button
|
Song title
|
Composer
---|---|---|---
d01
|
PIANO1
|
Jardins sous la pluie
|
C.Debussy
d02
|
PIANO2
|
Danny boy
|
Irish Folk Song
d03
|
E.PIANO1
|
Jam Session
|
N. Nishi
d04
|
E.PIANO2
|
In Memory
|
M.Giesel
d05
|
HARPSI/CLAV
|
Invention No.8
|
J.S.Bach
d06
|
VIBES/GUITAR
|
Jazz in Spain
|
KORG original
d07
|
ORGAN1
|
Improvisation
|
M.Geisel
d08
|
ORGAN2
|
Toccata in D moll
|
J.S.Bach
d09| STRINGS|
Scoring Interlude
|
M.Geisel
d10
|
CHOIR
|
Autumn Flares
|
M.Geccisel
Listening to a piano song
-
Press the PIANO SONG
The PIANO SONG and PIANO1 LEDs light up, and the number for the piano song (001) appears in the display.
-
After about 3 seconds, the PIANO1 LED blinks, and playback of the piano song
When playback of the first piano song is finished, play- back continues sequentially with second, third, etc. When playback of the twentieth piano song is finished, playback begins again with the first piano song. Listening to a specific piano song
The number for the song that you want to hear can be selected by pressing the UP or DOWN button beside the display. If a different number is selected by pressing the buttons, even while a song is being played, playback of the corresponding song will begin after a few seconds. -
To stop playback of a piano song, press the PIANO SONG button again.
Piano song list
No.
| display| Song title| Composer
---|---|---|---
1
|
001
|
Etude Op.10-12
|
F.Chopin
2
|
002
|
Claire de lune
|
C.Debussy
3
|
003
|
Fantaisie-Impromptu Op.66
|
F.Chopin
4
|
004
|
Waltz No.6 Db-major Op.64-1
|
F.Chopin
5
| ****
005
|
“Prelude 1” The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1
| ****
J.S.Bach
6
|
006
|
“Turkish March” Sonata K.331
|
W.A.Mozart
7
|
007
|
Arabesque No.1
|
C.Debussy
8
|
008
|
Für Elise
|
L.v.Beethoven
9
|
009
|
Liebesträume Nr.3
|
F.Liszt
10
|
010
|
La Campanella
|
F.Liszt
11
|
011
|
Nocturne Op.9-2
|
F.Chopin
12
|
012
|
Spring Song Op.62-6
|
F.Mendelssohn
13
|
013
|
Reflets dans I’eau
|
C.Debussy
14
|
014
|
Gymnopédie No.1
|
E.Satie
15
|
015
|
Etude Op.10-3
|
F.Chopin
16
| 016| Old Feather Blues| KORG original
17
|
017
|
La fille aux cheveux de lin
|
C.Debussy
18
|
018
|
The Entertainer
|
S.Joplin
19|
019
|
Sunflowers
|
KORG original
20| 020| Amazing Grace|
Hymn
Playing the SP-280
Playing a single sound (Single mode)
You can select a sound from the thirty sounds supplied with the instrument (10
sounds x 3 banks).
Sound button
|
Bank
|
Sound name
|
---|---|---|---
PIANO1
|
1
|
Classic Piano
|
3
2
|
Grand Piano
|
3
3
|
Jazz Piano
|
2
PIANO2
|
1
|
Live Piano
|
2
2
|
Honky-Tonk
|
2
3
|
Elec.Grand
|
1
E.PIANO1
|
1
|
Stage E.piano
|
1
2
|
Bright E.Piano
|
2
3
|
Tremolo EP
|
3
E.PIANO2
|
1
|
Dig.E.Piano1
|
2
2
|
60’s E.Piano
|
1
3
|
Dig.E.Piano2
|
2
HARPSI/CLAV
|
1
|
Harpsichord
|
2
2
|
Clav
|
1
3
|
Synth Clav
|
2
VIBES/GUITAR
|
1
|
Vibraphone
|
1
2
|
Marimba
|
1
3
|
Acoustic Guitar
|
2
ORGAN1
|
1
|
Jazz Organ1
|
2
2
|
Jazz Organ2
|
2
3
|
Jazz Organ3
|
2
ORGAN2
|
1
| Pipe Organ1| 2
2
|
Pipe Organ2
| 2
3
|
Positive Organ
|
2
STRINGS
| 1|
Strings
|
2
2
|
Cinema Strings
|
2
3
|
Analog Strings
|
2
CHOIR| 1|
Aah Choir
|
2
2
|
Ooh Voices
|
2
3| Classical Choir|
3
(#) These columns show the number of oscillators per voice that are used by each sound.
-
Press the sound button for the sound that you want to
The LED for that button will light up. -
Press the BANK button to select one of the three
Each press of the BANK button switches the bank in the order 1, 2, 3, 1, …, and the corresponding LED to the right of the BANK button will light up.
For example, to select the electric grand piano sound, press the PIANO2 button, after which its LED lights up. Then, press the BANK button twice to select bank 3 (electric grand piano); the LED below and to the right of the BANK button will light up.
In addition, the bank selected for a sound button re- mains the same, even if a different sound button is pressed.
Each time the SP-280 is turned on, the sound in bank 1 is selected for all sound buttons.
Playing two sounds at the same time (Layer mode)
You can play two sounds at the same time on the key- board. This is called
the Layer mode. Simultaneously press the two sound buttons for the sounds to
be played at the same time. The LEDs for the two pressed sound buttons will
light up.
The leftmost or uppermost selected sound button is layer 1, and the other (rightmost or lowermost) one is layer 2 (see the diagram at the below).
For example, if E.PIANO1 and ORGAN1 are selected, E.PIANO1 is layer 1 and
ORGAN1 is layer 2.
In order to use sounds in different banks, first select the banks in the
Single mode for the sound buttons to be pressed.
For example, to play by layering the grand piano and jazz organ 2 sounds,
select bank 1 (classic piano) for the PIANO1 button and bank 2 (jazz organ 2)
for the ORGAN1 button, and then press both buttons simultaneously.
When selecting Layer mode, the total number of voices that can play at the same time is reduced, depending on the total number of oscillators used by the selected sounds. (refer to “About maximum polyphony” on page 15.)
Sounds in different banks for the same sound button (grand piano and jazz piano for the PIANO1 button) cannot be selected.
Returning to the Single mode
To return to Single mode, just press a single sound se- lection button.
Layer mode settings
In Layer mode, the volume balance between sounds can be adjusted, the
octave for each sound can be shift- ed, and the damper pedal can be enabled or
disabled for each sound. (refer to “Function mode” on page 10.)
Performing with another person (Partner mode)
Two people can play in the same range with the keyboard di- vided in half between them. This is called the Partner mode.
-
Press the FUNCTION
The FUNCTION and PIANO1 LEDs will light up. -
Press the PIANO1 button. Press the PIANO1 button.
The LED for the E.PIANO1 sound button lights up, and oFF appears in the display.
-
Press the UP button beside the display to select Partner mode is turned on, and the PIANO1 sound is used for both the left and right sides of the keyboard. The right side of the keyboard, from E4 to C8, produces sounds in a range two octaves lower (E2–C6). The left side of the keyboard, from A0 to E 4, produces sounds in a range two octaves higher (A2–E 6).
Pitches A2 to E 6 for the player on the right side.
Pitches E2 to C6 for the player on the left side -
To exit Partner mode, press the DOWN button beside the display to select oFF.
-
Press the FUNCTION
**** The FUNCTION LED turns off.
In Partner mode, the sound for the left and right sides can be changed, and the volume can be adjusted. For details, refer to “Partner mode settings” on page 11.
Using pedals
Using the damper pedal
Pressing this pedal will sustain the sound, producing a richly resonant
decay. You can also use halfpedalling, with a gradual resonance effect
depending on the depth of the pedal pressure (“half-pedaling”).
In Layer mode, you can select the sound(s) to apply the pedal to. (refer to “Specifying layer pedals” on page 12)
Use optional pedal unit (sold separately) to achieve three pedal effects.
Soft pedal (left)
Pressing this pedal will make the tone softer. You can con- trol the
softness of the tone by how far down you press the on pedal (“half-pedaling”).
Sostenuto pedal (center)
Pressing this pedal will apply the damper effect only to the notes that are
already being held down on the keyboard, and will sustain only those notes.
The damper effect will not be applied to any additional notes that you play
while holding down the Sostenuto pedal.
Damper pedal (right)
Pressing this pedal will sustain the sound, producing a richly resonant
decay. You can also add the damper reso- nance to the classic piano and the
grand piano tone (bank 1 and 2 of Piano1). You can also use halfpedalling,
with a gradual resonance effect depending on the depth of the pedal pressure
(“half-pedaling”).
In Layer mode, you can select the sound(s) where you want to apply the pedal. (refer to “Specifying layer pedals” on page 12)
In Partner mode (see page 11), the damper effect can be applied independently by both players.
Effects
Brilliance
This effect changes the brightness of the tone.
The setting can be changed by holding down the BRIL- LIANCE button and
pressing the UP or DOWN button beside the display.
The setting appears in the display with 3 producing a brighter sound and 1
producing a less bright sound.
The same setting is applied to all sounds and remains ap- plied until the
SP-280 is turned off. When the instrument is turned on, the default setting 2
is selected.
Brilliance cannot be turned off.
Reverb
This effect adds ambience and depth to the sound, produc- ing the sense of performing in a concert hall. As a factory default, the on/off setting for this effect as well as this ef- fect’s setting are saved with each sound.
Each press of the REVERB button turns reverb on (LED lights up) or off (LED
turns off).
To change this setting, hold down the REVERB button and press the UP or
DOWN button beside the display.
The setting appears in the display with 3 producing a deep reverb effect and 1 producing a light reverb effect. If a different sound is selected or if the SP-280 is turned off, the on/off setting for this effect as well as this effect’s set- ting return to their factory defaults (default settings).
Chorus
Chorus adds modulation to the sound, producing an ex- pansively rich sound.
As a factory default, the on/off set- ting for this effect as well as this
effect’s setting are saved with each sound.
Each press of the CHORUS button turns reverb on (LED lights up) or off (LED
turns off).
To change this setting, hold down the CHORUS button and press the UP
or DOWN button beside the display.
The setting appears in the display with 3 producing a deep chorus effect and 1
producing a light chorus effect.
If a different sound is selected or if the SP-280 is turned off, the on/off
setting for this effect as well as this effect’s set- ting return to their
factory defaults (default settings).
The metronome
The SP-280 is equipped with a metronome, which can be changed to a bell sound convenient for practicing.
Turning on/off the metronome Press the METRONOME button. The LED lights
up, and the metronome starts.
To stop the metronome, press the METRONOME button again. The LED turns off.
Specifying the tempo
When the tempo appears in the display (default setting of 120), regardless of
whether the metronome is turned on or off, the tempo can be specified with the
UP and DOWN buttons beside the display. The setting range is = 40–240. To
return to the default setting, simultaneously press the UP and DOWN buttons.
Selecting the time signature
-
1. **Hold down the METRONOME button until the Metronome settings mode is entered.** The METRONOME LED blinks, and the LED for the PIANO1 sound button lights up.
In addition, the time signature appears in the display. When the Metronome settings mode is entered, the time signature setting normally appears. -
To select the time signature after changing other settings in the Metronome settings mode, press the PIANO1 button.
-
Select the setting with the UP or DOWN button beside the display.
**** The setting range consists of 02 (2/4), 03 (3/4), 04 (4/4) and 06 (6/4); the default setting is 04.To return to the default setting, simultaneously press the UP and DOWN buttons.
-
Press the METRONOME button to exit the Metro- nome settings mode.
Adjusting the metronome volume
-
Hold down the METRONOME button until the Metronome settings mode is entered.
-
Press the PIANO2 button, and the volume will appear in the display.
-
Specify the setting with the UP or DOWN button be- side the display.
The setting range is 1–13; the default setting is 10.
To return to the default setting, simultaneously press the UP and DOWN buttons.
-
Press the METRONOME button to exit the Metronome settings mode.
Selecting a bell for the accent
- Hold down the METRONOME button until the Metronome settings mode is
- Press the E.PIANO1 button, and the accent sound set- ting will appear in the
- Select the setting with the UP or DOWN button be- side the display.
The setting range consists of oFF (no accent sound), on1 (emphasized sound for the accent beat) and on2 (bell sound for the accent beat); the default setting is oFF..
- Press the METRONOME button to exit the Metronome settings mode.
Specifying the tempo (Metronome settings mode)
-
1. **Hold down the METRONOME button until the Metronome settings mode is** -
Press the E.PIANO2 button, and the tempo will appear in the display.
-
Specify the setting with the UP or DOWN button beside the display.
-
**Specifying the tempo (Metronome settings mode)
** The setting range is = 40–240; the default setting is 120. To return to the default setting, simultaneously press the UP and DOWN buttons.
Selecting the Metronome Sound
-
Hold down the METRONOME button until the Met- ronome settings mode is
-
Press the HARPSI/CLAV button, and the metronome sound setting will appear in the
-
Specify the setting with the UP or DOWN button be- side the display.
The setting range consists of 1 (acoustic) and 2 (electronic sound); the default setting is 1.
-
Press the METRONOME button to exit the Metronome settings mode.
Other functions
Touch settings
The keyboard sensitivity, or touch, can be programmed. The “Light” setting produces a louder sound than usual when you play softly on the keyboard; and the “Heavy” setting produces a softer sound than usual, until you play harder.
To change the setting, hold down the TOUCH button and press the UP or DOWN button beside the display.
| Display | Touch sensitivity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Light. Loud notes can be produced even by playing lightly. |
| 2 | Normal. Normal piano touch. |
| 3 | Heavy. Loud notes can be produced only by playing very hard. |
The diagram below shows the relationship between how hard you play the keyboard and how loud or soft the notes will sound.
When the instrument is turned on, the touch setting is reset to Normal.
The settings are applied to all sounds.
Transpose
In some cases, a song may be written in a difficult key (e.g., many black
keys), or you may wish to shift the pitch to match another instrument or
vocalist. In such cases, you can transpose (shift the pitch) so that you can
use an easier fingering, or use the same familiar fingering to play at a
different pitch. This is called the Transpose function.
When the instrument is turned on, the transposing is reset.
While holding down the TRANSPOSE button, press the keyboard key (F 6–F7) for
the desired transposition.
If a keyboard key other than C7 is pressed, the TRANS- POSE LED lights up to
indicate that the keyboard is trans- posed.
The pitch of the entire keyboard is transposed according to the pitch of the pressed keyboard key in relation to C7. To return to the original pitches, hold down the TRANS- POSE button and press the C7 key. The TRANSPOSE LED turns off, and transposition is canceled.
key
|
Effect
---|---
F♯6–B6
|
6–1 semitones below
C7
|
Standard pitch
C♯7–F7
|
1–5 semitones higher
Function mode
The temperament as well as other pitch settings can be specified from the
Function mode.
Setting procedure for functions in the Function mode.
-
Press the FUNCTION
The FUNCTION and PIANO1 LEDs light up. -
Press the sound button corresponding to the desired
The current setting appears in the display. -
Specify the desired setting.
-
After specifying the desired settings, press the FUNCTION button to return to the mode for playing. The FUNCTION LED turns off.
When the SP-280 is turned off, all functions, except the auto power off
function, return to their default set- tings.
The settings are applied to all sounds.
Fine tuning
In order to adapt the SP-280 pitch to that of another instrument, you can
adjust the pitch in steps of 0.5 Hz over a range of A4 = 427.5–452.5 Hz.
27.5–52.5 appears in the display.
The standard pitch is A = 440 Hz, and the default setting is 40.0.
-
After entering the Function mode, the LED for the PIANO1 sound button lights up.
When the Function mode is entered, the pitch setting normally appears. -
To specify the pitch after changing other settings in the Function mode, press the PIANO1
-
Specify the setting with the UP or DOWN button be- side the display.
Simultaneously press the UP and DOWN buttons to return to 440 Hz.
Selecting a temperament
You can select from nine temperaments, including the equal temperament, pure temperaments (major and mi- nor), classical temperaments (Kirnberger and Werckmeis- ter) as well as temperaments used with Middle Eastern and Indian folk music.
| Display | Temperament |
|---|---|
| 00 | Equal temperament (default setting): Spacing all semitones at equal |
pitch intervals, this temperament is the most widely used.
01| Pure temperament [major]: Major chords in the key (C) are perfectly
tuned.
02| Pure temperament [minor]: Minor chords in the key (C) are perfectly
tuned.
03| Arabic: This scale includes the quarter-tone in- tervals used in
Arabic music.
04| Pythagorean: This ancient Greek scale is espe- cially effective for
playing melodies. It consists of perfect fifths; however, other intervals –
the major third in particular – is out of tune.
05| Werckmeister: The Werckmeister III scale was created in the later
Baroque period to allow relatively free transposition.
06| Kirnberger: The Kirnberger III scale is used mainly for tuning
harpsichords.
07| Slendro scale: This is an Indonesian gamelan scale with five notes
per octave.
08| Pelog scale: This is an Indonesian gamelan scale with seven notes per
octave.
-
Enter the Function mode, and then press the PIANO2
The LED for the PIANO2 sound button lights up, and the temperament setting (00) appears in the display. -
Select the setting with the UP or DOWN button be- side the display.
About stretched tuning
In order to produce the most natural resonance, PIANO1 and PIANO2 sounds use a “stretched tuning” that makes the notes of the lower range slightly flatter than equal temperament, and the upper range slightly sharper. This is how an acoustic piano is normally tuned by professional tuners.
Partner mode settings
-
Enter the Function mode, and then press the PIANO1 button.
The LED for the E.PIANO1 sound button lights up, and the on/off setting appears in the display. -
Each press of the UP or DOWN button beside the dis- play turns the mode on (on) or off (oFF).
When the Partner mode is turned on, the PIANO1 sound is used for both the left
and right sides of the keyboard, and the PIANO1 LED lights up.
The division for the left and right sides of the key- board as well as the
range (pitches) cannot be changed.The right side of the keyboard, from E4 to
C8, produces sounds in a range two octaves lower (E2–C6). The left side of the
keyboard, from A0 to E 4, produces sounds in a range two octaves higher (A2–E
6).
The division for the left and right sides of the key- board as well as the range (pitches) cannot be changed.
In the Partner mode, the transposition settings are ignored. In addition, keyboard information (Note On and Note Off) is not sent with MIDI.
Selecting the sound for the left side
Exit the Function mode, and then press the sound but- ton for the sound to
be used with the left side of the keyboard. The right side of the keyboard
remains set to the PIANO1 sound.
Selecting sounds for the left and right sides
Exit the Function mode, and then simultaneously press the two sound buttons
for the sounds to be used. The LEDs for the two pressed sound buttons light
up.
The leftmost or uppermost selected sound button is for the left side of the keyboard, and the other (rightmost or lowermost) one is for the right side of the keyboard. For example, if E.PIANO1 and ORGAN1 are selected, E.PIANO1 is for the left side of the keyboard and OR- GAN1 for the right side of the keyboard.
In order to use sounds in different banks, first select the banks in the Single mode for the sound buttons to be pressed.
If the Partner mode is turned off and the Function mode is exited with the left and right sides of the key- board set to different sounds, the Layer mode will be entered.
In the Partner mode, the tone performed will change to Piano 1 when entering the performance of a piano song. However, the tone of the keyboard on the right that was selected in the Partner mode will be emitted when the keyboard on the right (E4–C8) is played.
Using the same sound (other than PIANO1) for both the left and right sides
Exit the Function mode, and then simultaneously press two sound buttons, making sure that the rightmost one is for the sound to be used. Then, press the right- most selected sound button again. For example, after pressing the PIANO2 and ORGAN1 buttons, press the ORGAN1 button again to use the ORGAN1 sound with both the left and right sides of the keyboard.
Changing the volume for the left and right sides
If the sounds for the left and right sides of the key- board have been changed, the volume can be specified for each sound. refer to “Specifying the volume balance for layers” on page 12
Using dampers
The included damper pedal can be used to apply a damping effect for only the player on the right side of the keyboard.
Optional pedal unit (sold separately) can be used as separate damper pedals for the left and right sides of the keyboard.
Damper: Used as a damper pedal for the player on the right side of the keyboard.
Sostenuto: Not used.
Soft: Used as a damper pedal for the player on the left side of the keyboard.
Specifying the volume balance for layers
The volume balance for sounds in the Layer mode (or the Partner mode) can be adjusted. The setting range is 1 – 9… 9 – 9…9 – 1, with the number on the left for layer 1 (or the left side of the keyboard) and the number on the right for layer 2 (or the right side of the keyboard).
The default setting is 9 – 9.
-
Enter the Function mode, and then press the PIANO2 button.
The LED for the E.PIANO2 sound button lights up, and the balance setting (9 – 9) appears in the display. -
Specify the volume balance setting with the UP or DOWN button beside the display.
To return to the default setting, simultaneously press the UP and DOWN buttons.
If the sound is in the Single mode, – – – appears in the display, and a setting cannot be specified.
Specifying layer octaves
In the Layer mode, the octave for each sound can be speci- fied. The setting range is ±1 octave for each sound, and –01, 00 and 01 appear in the display. The default setting is 00.
-
Enter the Function mode, and then press the HARP- SI/CLAV
The LED for the HARPSI/CLAV sound button lights up, and the layer (L1) whose octave is to be specified ap- pears in the display. -
Select the layer with the UP or DOWN button beside the
L1 appears for layer 1, and L2 appears for layer 2. -
Press the BANK
The octave setting (00) appears in the display. -
Select the octave setting with the UP or DOWN but- ton beside the display.
To return to the default setting, simultaneously press the UP and DOWN buttons.
To select the octave for the other layer, press the HARPSI/
CLAV button to select the layer.
If the sound is in the Single mode, – – – appears in the display, and a setting cannot be specified.
Specifying layer pedals
In the Layer mode, a damper setting can be specified for each sound.
The settings are only for the layer 1 sound (o – –), only for the layer 2
sound (– – o) and for both sounds (o – o). The default setting is o – o.
-
Enter the Function mode, and then press the VIBES/ GUITAR button.
The LED for the VIBES/GUITAR sound button lights up, and the damper setting (o – o) appears in the dis- play. -
Select the damper setting with the UP or DOWN but- ton beside the display.
If the sound is in the Single mode, – – – appears in the display, and a setting cannot be specified.
Specifying the auto power off function
When 30 minutes have passed without a key pressed in the keyboard or without an automatic performance played, the instrument is automatically turned off. To disable this function, turn off (oFF) this function. The default setting is this function turned on. If this setting is changed, the new setting is saved and remains selected, even if the SP-280 is turned off.
-
Enter the Function mode, and then press the OR- GAN1 button.
The LED for the ORGAN1 sound button lights up, and the setting (on) appears in the display. -
Select the on/off setting with the UP or DOWN but- ton beside the display.
**MIDI
**
What is MIDI?
MIDI, is the abbreviation of Musical Instrument Digital Interface. It is an international standard that was created to connect and transfer data between electronic musical instruments, computers and other devices.
What can you do with MIDI?
Thanks to MIDI, you can use the SP-280 to control other instruments, use
other instruments to control the SP-280, and use a sequencer to create complex
musical pieces. When you use the SP-280 keyboard or pedal, or select a sound,
the notes, pedal activation and change in sound are transmitted to another
instrument, or are recorded by a sequencer.
Connections
Commercially available MIDI cables are used to transfer MIDI data. Connect
these cables from the MIDI connectors of the SP-280 to the MIDI connectors of
the external MIDI device that you want to exchange data with. There are two
types of MIDI connector.
MIDI IN connector
This connector receives MIDI messages.
The MIDI IN connector lets you play the SP-280’s sounds from an external MIDI
device (e.g., MIDI keyboard or sequencer). Use a MIDI cable to connect the
SP-280’s MIDI IN connector to your external MIDI device’s MIDI OUT connector.
MIDI OUT connector
This connector transmits MIDI messages.
The MIDI OUT connector lets you control an external MIDI device using the MIDI
messages transmitted from the SP-280. Use a MIDI cable to connect the SP-280’s
MIDI OUT connector to your external MIDI device’s MIDI IN connector.
MIDI function mode
When the SP-280 is turned on, the MIDI parameters are set to transmission
channel 1, all reception channels (1–16), Local On and Omni Off.
These settings can be changed from the MIDI function mode.
Setting procedure for parameters in the MIDI function mode
- Hold down the FUNCTION
The PIANO 1 LED lights up, and the MIDI channel set- ting (C01) appears in the display. The FUNCTION but- ton is blinking. The FUNCTION LED will blink.
-
Press the sound button corresponding to the desired
The current setting appears in the display. -
Specify the desired
-
After specifying the desired settings, press the FUNCTION button to return to the mode for playing. The FUNCTION LED turns off.
When the SP-280 is turned off, all parameters return to their default settings.
Changing the MIDI channels
Data can be transmitted and received on MIDI channels 1 through 16 (C01–C16).
When the SP-280 is turned on, transmission channel 1 (C01) is automatically
selected.
- After entering the MIDI function mode, the LED for the PIANO1 sound button lights
When the MIDI function mode is entered, the MIDI channel setting normally appears.
To specify the MIDI channel setting after changing other settings in the MIDI function mode, press the PIANO1 button.
In the Layer or Partner modes, selecting the transmission channel specifies the channel for layer 1 or the left side of the keyboard. The transmission channel for layer 2 or the right side of the keyboard will automatically be set to the following channel. For example, if MIDI channel 7 is selected for the sound of layer 1 or the left side of the key- board, MIDI channel 8 will automatically be specified for the sound of layer 2 or the right side of the keyboard. If MIDI channel 16 is selected for the sound of layer 1 or the left side of the keyboard, channel 1 will be specified for the sound of layer 2 or the right side of the keyboard.
Local On/Off
With the Local On setting, playing the SP-280’s keyboard produces the sounds of the performance as well as trans- mits MIDI data. With the Local Off setting, playing the SP-280’s keyboard does not produce the sounds of the performance; MIDI data is only transmitted. Normally this parameter is set to Local On (default setting: on).
The Local Off setting should be selected when using the SP-280 as a master keyboard, for example, to play sounds from a connected MIDI device (a keyboard, sound module, etc.). The SP-280 will not produce sound, but the perfor- mance will be played by the connected MIDI device.
Select the Local Off setting (oFF) when using the SP-280 as a sound module, for example, when the SP-280 is con- nected to a sequencer with its Echo Back setting (function that sends back data that the sequencer received) selected in order to prevent echoing of returned data.
- Enter the MIDI function mode, and then press the PIANO2 button.
The LED for the PIANO2 sound button lights up, and the Local On/Off setting (on) appears in the display.
Enabling/disabling program change transmis sion/reception filtering
The programs on a connected MIDI device can be changed by sending a MIDI
change number from the SP-280. In addition, the programs on the SP-280 can be
changed by receiving a MIDI change number from a connected MIDI device.
For program change numbers and their corresponding sounds, refer to “Table of
sounds and corresponding pro- gram change numbers” below.
To transmit/receive program change messages, disable this function (oFF:
default setting). To not transmit/receive the messages, enable this function
(on).
- Enter the MIDI function mode, and then press the PIANO1 button.
The LED for the E.PIANO1 sound button lights up, and the setting (oFF) appears in the display.
Transmitting program changes
When a sound is selected using the sound buttons and BANK button on the SP-280, the corresponding MIDI pro- gram change number is transmitted.
Receiving program changes
When the SP-280 receives a MIDI program change number, the sound is changed to the corresponding one.
If an incompatible program change number is re- ceived, the SP-280 sound is not changed.
Table of sounds and corresponding program change numbers
Sound Button
|
Bank
|
CC32
|
PC
|
Sound
---|---|---|---|---
PIANO1
|
1
|
1
|
0
|
Classic Piano
2
|
0
|
0
|
Grand Piano
3
|
0
|
1
|
Jazz Piano
PIANO2
|
1
|
2
|
0
|
Live Piano
2
|
0
| 3|
Honky-Tonk
3
|
0
| 2|
Elec.Grand
E.PIANO1
|
1
|
0
|
4
|
Club E.piano
2
|
1
|
4
|
Vintage E.Piano
3
|
3
|
4
|
Tremoro EP
E.PIANO2
|
1
| 0| 5| Dig.E.Piano1
2
|
2
| 4| 60’s E.Piano
3
|
1
|
5
|
Dig.E.Piano2
HARPSI/CLAV
| 1| 0| 6|
Harpsichord
2
| 0|
7
| Clav
3
|
1
|
7
|
Synth Clav
VIBES/ GUITAR
|
1
|
0
|
11
|
Vibraphone
2
|
0
|
12
|
Marimba
3
|
0
|
24
|
Acoustic Guitar
ORGAN1
|
1
|
0
|
16
|
Jazz Organ1
2
|
1
|
16
|
Jazz Organ2
3
|
0
|
17
|
Jazz Organ3
ORGAN2
|
1
|
0
|
19
|
Pipe Organ1
2
|
1
|
19
|
Pipe Organ2
3
|
2
|
19
|
Positive Organ
STRINGS
|
1
|
0
|
48
|
Strings
2
|
0
|
50
|
Cinema Strings
3
|
1
|
50
|
Analog Strings
CHOIR
|
1
|
0
|
52
|
Aah Choir
2
|
1
|
52
|
Ooh Voices
3
|
2
|
52
|
Classical Choir
Enabling/disabling control change transmission/ reception filtering
Messages, such as operation of the SP-280’s damper pedal, can be transmitted to a connected external MIDI device to control it, and these messages can be received from the ex- ternal MIDI device to control the SP-280.
To transmit/receive control change messages, disable this function (oFF: default setting). To not transmit/receive the messages, enable this function (on).
- Enter the MIDI function mode, and then press the PIANO2 button.
The LED for the E.PIANO2 sound button lights up, and the setting (oFF) appears in the display.
Using the SP-280 as a multitimbral sound module
The SP-280 can operate as a 16-part multitimbral sound module when an
external MIDI device is used to control its internal sound generator.
-
Connect a MIDI cable to the SP-280’s MIDI IN con- nector and to the MIDI OUT connector of a sequencer or other MIDI
-
Transmit MIDI data from the connected sequencer or other MIDI
For details on transmitting data from the connected sequencer or other MIDI device, refer to its user’s man- ual. -
When the SP-280 receives the program change mes- sage along with the performance data, it will play with the sound corresponding to that program num-
If the SP-280 is not to be used as a multi-timbral sound module, disable this function (oFF).
- Enter the MIDI function mode, and then press the HARPSI/CLAV button.
The LED for the HARPSI/CLAV sound button lights up, and the setting (on: default setting) appears in the display.
Troubleshooting
If during use any of the following problems should occur, carefully examine the instrument to see if you can find out what the problem is, and try resolving it by following the suggestions below. If the instrument will still not function properly refer to your dealer.
The instrument will not turn on
- Check that the AC adapter is correctly connected to the piano and the outlet.
No sound
- Make sure that the volume is not set on MIN. If it is, bring it up to an adequate level.
- Make sure that the MIDI Local function is not set on If it is, set it to ON (or turn the instrument off and then on again).
- Make sure there is not a jack plugged into one of the Headphones jacks. This would turn the internal speak- ers if so, unplug the jack.
Notes are interrupted
- You have exceeded the maximum see “About maximum polyphony.”
The pitch or tone of the piano sounds wrong in some key regions
- The SP-280’s piano sounds replicate the sound of an actual piano as faithfully as possible. This means that in some regions of the keyboard, you may feel that the overtones seem stronger, or that the tone or pitch seems wrong. This is not a malfunction.
The connected MIDI device does not respond to trans- mitted MIDI data
- Make sure that all MIDI cables are correctly
Make sure that the SP-280 is receiving MIDI data on the same channel as the MIDI device.
About maximum polyphony
If the number of notes being played simultaneously ex- ceeds the maximum polyphony, some notes will be lost since the SP-280 is equipped with a mechanism that stops the first note being played to give priority to notes played with keys pressed later. Some SP-280 sounds, although they may be a single sound, are generated by two or more oscillators (one note of a sound- generating circuit). Sounds using just one oscillator, such as those in banks 1 and 2 of VIBES/GUITAR, have a maximum polyphony of 120 notes. Sounds using two oscillators, such as those in banks 1 and 2 of PIANO2 and in banks 1 and 3 of E.PIANO2, have a maximum polyphony of 60 notes.
120 ÷ Number of sound oscillators = Maximum polyphony
Keep the maximum polyphony in mind and carefully choose sounds when using Layer mode to play two sounds simultaneously or when using the damper pedal.
Installing the stand
Warning
- The stand must be installed by at least two
Installation precautions
Be sure to observe the following precautions in order to safely and
correctly perform the installation.
- Make sure that the correct parts are in the correct ori- entation and position, and perform the installation in the order of the steps provided.
Other precautions
Observe the following precautions after the stand has been installed.
-
Loosened screws
Since the screws may become loose as time passes af- ter installation, we recommend periodically checking for loose screws. In addition, if you feel that the stand shakes excessively, it may be due to screws becoming loose. In that case, re-tighten them. -
When transporting the instrument
Transporting the instrument with the stand installed may result in unforeseen damage. Remove the stand from the SP-280, and then transport them separately. After they have been transported, re-install the stand as described in “Installing the stand”. -
Removal
Remove the stand by reversing the installation proce- dure. After removal, store the screws and other parts so they will not be lost.
Installation procedure
Make sure that all of the following parts are available.
In addition, check if enough of the bolts on the front legs extend out (14 mm
or more), and then install the legs after adjusting the bolt lengths.
If the bolts are not long enough (less than 14 mm), turn the adjusters until they reach an appropriate length.
In order to prevent damage to the keyboard or knobs of the SP-280, prepare some magazines, fabric or moderately stiff cushions (see below).
-
Turn over the SP-280.
In order to avoid placing the SP-280 directly on the floor, place magazines or fabric at each end as shown below, and then place the instrument upside- down on top of them.
When turning over the SP-280, be careful that it does not become unbalanced and dropped.
-
Install the front legs (one each on the left and right). Screw the front legs (without braces attached) clock- wise (direction of arrow) into the screw holes on the keyboard side of the stand base.
Make sure that the adjusters are not loose. -
Install the rear legs (one each on the left and right). Screw the rear legs (with braces attached) clockwise (direction of arrow) into the screw holes on the back side of the stand base.
-
Loosen knob bolts B for the braces attached to the rear legs.
-
After adjusting the braces so that the screw hole on their ends contact the installation positions on the SP-280, secure the brace ends with knob bolts A.
-
Tighten knob bolts B for the braces attached to the rear legs.
-
Check the surrounding area, and then turn over the SP-280 without hitting anything.
Adjusting front leg clearances to floor
Follow the procedure below to finely adjust the clearances between the front legs and the floor within 3 mm.
- Turn either the left or right front leg counterclock- wise (direction of arrow 1) a little at a time to adjust the clearance between the front leg and the floor.
- Hold the adjusted leg so it does not turn, and then turn the adjuster at the top of the leg clockwise (di- rection of arrow 2) until it is firmly secured.
Check after installation
-
Are any parts left over?
If any parts are left over, carefully review the assembly procedure to see where those parts should have been used. -
Make sure that all screws are
Installing optional pedal unit (sold separately)
If you purchased pedal unit, continue by installing the pedal unit.
Make sure that the power of the unit is turned off when connecting the pedal
unit to it.
Connect the pedal cord to the connector on the underside of the unit and
fasten it with the cord holder .
Be sure to connect the pedal cord with the connector in the correct
orientation.
Hold the locking tab while inserting or removing the pedal cord.
