We have a two-octave xylosynth XS6
in laminated birch.  Here's
our problem:  We are trying to use
timpani sounds and cannot seem to
figure out how to transpose down
an octave or more.  Anyone out there
have experience with this issue and
can help?  nflum@music.ua.edu
 

Do you mean you're trying to get the Xylosynth to play notes that are below its 2 primary octaves, or that you'd like to change the transposition in the VDL Timpani instrument itself?

According to the Xylosynth (2-octave birch) users manual:(http://www.wernick.net/docs/Xylosynth%20Manual%20XS6-2%20M2.16%20Birch.pdf)
There's a ";transpose"; pedal that would allow you to set the location of C4. I don't have experience with this, but the way I understand it, you'd hit the pedal and tap your top C, thus transposing the instrument two octaves down.

(Keep in mind when referencing VDL mapping/documentation that middle C in NI software is C3 whereas in the Xylosynth manual, it looks like they're calling it C4.)


If you need to adjust the mapping of the actual VDL Timpani instrument, that wouldn't be possible without tweaking the programming in Kontakt. It's not too hard if you're familiar with the programming aspects of the instruments, but it may not be a convenient solution if you're looking to plug and play. The pitch knob can change the tuning in half-step increments, but I presume that's not what you're looking to do.

Thanks, Jim.  We do not have the pedal.
Need to acquire that and then we
can alter the octaves on the instrument
itself.  Thanks for taking the time to
respond. 

Can you change patches right on the xylosynth? I've contemplated getting one for one of my schools and replacing the MalletKat. I can change octave, chain patches and program fan speed for vibes right on the Kat. Plus, I am going to upgrade the pads to the wood type. Is it worth the change? What's the positives of the Xylosynth?

[quote author=Cobybos link=topic=4115.msg21575#msg21575 date=1315524264]
Can you change patches right on the xylosynth? I've contemplated getting one for one of my schools and replacing the MalletKat. I can change octave, chain patches and program fan speed for vibes right on the Kat. Plus, I am going to upgrade the pads to the wood type. Is it worth the change? What's the positives of the Xylosynth?
[/quote]

No, it is just a VERY simple controller.  I've owned several Malletkats and now a XyloSynth.  Completely different monsters.  Opposite ends of the spectrum.  The Xylo is basically controlled by your sound source (computer) for changes.  So you select a different sound (channel or whatever) on your computer program (say main stage or Logic).  There is only 1 channel on the Xylo.  Other than that you can transpose to anywhere on the instrument (which is confusing without a display at first) and a sustain pedal. 

BUT, it looks like a million bucks.  Feels incredible and is a pleasure to play.

You need advanced editing features (or even fairly basic ones) get a malletkat.  Also, the bars on the Xylo are loud TICKS.  That can be an issue for live performances.

I personally love it in my studio, but at times miss my malletkat for it's quietness and quick control changes.
Ahhhhh aesthetics......