Quick Start Guide
=================

Welcome to **JDXI-Editor**! This comprehensive quick start guide will get you up and running with your Roland JD-Xi synthesizer in minutes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, this guide will help you unlock the full potential of your JD-Xi through powerful computer-based editing.

What You'll Learn
=================

This quick start guide covers:
- **Hardware Setup**: Connecting your JD-Xi to your computer
- **Software Launch**: Starting JDXI-Editor and initial configuration
- **Basic Navigation**: Understanding the main interface components
- **First Sound Creation**: Creating your first custom sound
- **Essential Workflows**: Key techniques for effective sound design
- **Troubleshooting**: Quick solutions for common issues

Prerequisites
=============

Before you begin, ensure you have:
- **Roland JD-Xi Synthesizer**: Any firmware version supported
- **Computer**: macOS 10.14+, Windows 10+, or Linux (Ubuntu 18.04+)
- **USB Cable**: USB-B to USB-A or USB-C cable
- **JDXI-Editor Installed**: Follow the installation guide if not already installed

Hardware Setup
==============

**Step 1: Connect Your JD-Xi**
   Connect your Roland JD-Xi to your computer using a USB cable:

   .. code-block:: console

      # Use a USB-B ('host') to USB-A or USB-C cable
      # Connect USB-B end to the JD-Xi's USB host port
      # Connect USB-A/USB-C end to your computer

   **Important Notes:**
   - Use the USB host port on the JD-Xi (not the USB device port)
   - Ensure the cable is properly seated in both devices
   - Try different USB ports if connection issues occur

**Step 2: Power Up Your JD-Xi**
   Turn on your JD-Xi synthesizer:

   .. code-block:: console

      # Power on the JD-Xi
      # Wait for the instrument to fully boot up
      # Verify the display shows normal operation

   **Troubleshooting:**
   - If the JD-Xi doesn't power on, check the power adapter
   - Ensure the instrument is in the correct mode for MIDI communication
   - Check that no other MIDI applications are using the JD-Xi

**Step 3: Verify MIDI Connection**
   Check that your computer recognizes the JD-Xi:

   .. code-block:: console

      # macOS: Open Audio MIDI Setup
      # Windows: Check Device Manager for MIDI devices
      # Linux: Use aconnect -l to list MIDI devices

Software Launch
===============

**Step 1: Start JDXI-Editor**
   Launch the JDXI-Editor application:

   .. code-block:: console

      # macOS: Applications folder > JD-Xi Editor.app
      # Windows: Start Menu > JD-Xi Editor
      # Linux: Run the AppImage or use command line

   **Alternative Launch Methods:**
   - **Command Line**: ``jdxi_manager`` (if installed via pip)
   - **Python Module**: ``python -m jdxi_editor.main`` (source installation)

**Step 2: Initial Configuration**
   The software will attempt to auto-connect to your JD-Xi:

   .. code-block:: console

      # Auto-connection should detect your JD-Xi
      # If successful, you'll see MIDI indicators active
      # If not, a MIDI configuration window will open

   **Manual MIDI Configuration:**
   If auto-connection fails, manually configure MIDI ports:

   .. figure:: images/midi_config_200.png
      :alt: MIDI Configuration Window
      :width: 60%

      MIDI Configuration Window

   1. **Open MIDI Settings**: Go to Settings > MIDI Configuration
   2. **Select Input Port**: Choose the JD-Xi MIDI input port
   3. **Select Output Port**: Choose the JD-Xi MIDI output port
   4. **Test Connection**: Verify MIDI communication is working
   5. **Save Settings**: Your preferences will be remembered

**Step 3: Verify Connection**
   Confirm that MIDI communication is working:

   .. code-block:: console

      # Check MIDI indicators in the interface
      # Play notes on the JD-Xi keyboard
      # Verify the software responds to MIDI input
      # Test parameter changes from the software

Interface Overview
==================

**Main Components**
   JDXI-Editor consists of two main windows:

   **1. JDXi Instrument Window**
      - **Virtual Keyboard**: Play notes using your computer keyboard
      - **MIDI Indicators**: Show active MIDI communication
      - **Quick Access**: Fast access to common functions
      - **Status Display**: Current settings and connection status

   **2. Editor Windows**
      - **Digital Synth Editors**: Parts 1 & 2 with multi-partial control
      - **Analog Synth Editor**: Classic analog synthesis
      - **Drum Kit Editor**: 36 individual drum voices
      - **Effects Editor**: Master effects processing
      - **Vocal Effects Editor**: Voice transformation and vocoder
      - **Arpeggiator Editor**: Pattern generation and sequencing
      - **Pattern Sequencer**: Multi-part step sequencing
      - **MIDI File Player**: File playback and recording

**Navigation Basics**
   - **Tabbed Interface**: Switch between different editors
   - **Parameter Controls**: Sliders, knobs, and buttons for real-time control
   - **Preset Management**: Load, save, and organize your sounds
   - **Real-time Updates**: Changes are instantly sent to your JD-Xi

Your First Sound Creation
=========================

**Step 1: Choose an Editor**
   Start with the Digital Synth Editor for your first sound:

   .. code-block:: console

      # Open the Digital Synth Editor
      # Select Part 1 or Part 2
      # Load a factory preset to start

   **Recommended Starting Points:**
   - **Digital Synth Part 1**: Good for lead sounds and melodies
   - **Analog Synth**: Great for bass sounds and warm tones
   - **Drum Kit**: Perfect for rhythm and percussion

**Step 2: Explore Basic Parameters**
   Familiarize yourself with the main controls:

   .. code-block:: console

      # Oscillator: Choose waveform and adjust pitch
      # Filter: Set cutoff frequency and resonance
      # Envelope: Adjust attack, decay, sustain, release
      # Effects: Add reverb, delay, or other effects

   **Parameter Categories:**
   - **Oscillator**: Waveform selection, pitch control
   - **Filter**: Cutoff, resonance, filter type
   - **Envelope**: ADSR controls for shaping sound
   - **Effects**: Reverb, delay, distortion, compression

**Step 3: Make Your First Changes**
   Start with simple parameter adjustments:

   .. code-block:: console

      # Adjust filter cutoff to change brightness
      # Modify envelope attack for different attack characteristics
      # Change oscillator waveform for different timbres
      # Add effects for spatial and harmonic enhancement

   **Safe Starting Points:**
   - **Filter Cutoff**: Start at 50% and adjust to taste
   - **Envelope Attack**: Begin with medium attack (50-70%)
   - **Effects Mix**: Start with subtle effects (20-30% mix)

**Step 4: Test Your Changes**
   Play notes to hear your modifications:

   .. code-block:: console

      # Use the virtual keyboard in the Instrument Window
      # Play notes on your MIDI controller (if connected)
      # Use the JD-Xi's built-in keyboard
      # Test different octaves and playing styles

**Step 5: Save Your Creation**
   Save your first custom sound:

   .. code-block:: console

      # Go to Preset Management
      # Choose "Save As" or "Save New"
      # Give your preset a descriptive name
      # Choose a category for organization

Essential Workflows
===================

**Basic Sound Design Workflow**
   Follow this process for effective sound creation:

   1. **Start with a Preset**: Load a factory preset as a starting point
   2. **Identify the Character**: Understand what makes the sound unique
   3. **Make Targeted Changes**: Focus on specific parameters
   4. **Test and Refine**: Play and adjust until satisfied
   5. **Save Your Work**: Preserve your creation

**Multi-Editor Workflow**
   Use multiple editors for complex sound design:

   1. **Create Base Sound**: Start with one synthesizer part
   2. **Add Layers**: Use other parts for additional elements
   3. **Apply Effects**: Add master effects for polish
   4. **Create Patterns**: Use arpeggiator or sequencer for movement
   5. **Record and Playback**: Use MIDI file player for production

**Performance Workflow**
   Optimize for live performance:

   1. **Prepare Presets**: Create and organize your performance sounds
   2. **Set Up Controllers**: Configure MIDI controllers for real-time control
   3. **Test Everything**: Verify all sounds and controls work properly
   4. **Create Setlists**: Organize presets for your performance
   5. **Practice Transitions**: Smoothly switch between sounds

**Production Workflow**
   Integrate with your DAW and recording setup:

   1. **Export MIDI**: Send patterns and sequences to your DAW
   2. **Record Audio**: Capture your JD-Xi's output
   3. **Sync Timing**: Ensure proper synchronization
   4. **Mix and Master**: Process your recordings
   5. **Archive Projects**: Save your work for future use

Quick Tips for Success
======================

**Sound Design Tips**
   - **Start Simple**: Begin with basic parameters before complex modulation
   - **Use Your Ears**: Trust your musical instincts
   - **Save Frequently**: Don't lose your work
   - **Experiment**: Try unexpected parameter combinations
   - **Learn from Presets**: Study how factory presets are constructed

**Performance Tips**
   - **Practice Transitions**: Smooth preset changes during performance
   - **Use Controllers**: MIDI controllers enhance live performance
   - **Monitor Levels**: Keep an eye on audio levels
   - **Have Backups**: Always have backup sounds ready
   - **Test Everything**: Verify your setup before important performances

**Troubleshooting Tips**
   - **Check Connections**: Verify USB and MIDI connections
   - **Restart if Needed**: Sometimes a restart solves issues
   - **Check Logs**: Review log files for error information
   - **Update Software**: Keep JDXI-Editor updated
   - **Ask for Help**: Use community resources when stuck

Common Issues and Solutions
===========================

**Connection Problems**
   - **No MIDI Detected**: Check USB cable and port connections
   - **Software Won't Start**: Verify installation and system requirements
   - **MIDI Not Working**: Check MIDI port configuration
   - **Latency Issues**: Close other MIDI applications

**Sound Issues**
   - **No Sound**: Check audio connections and levels
   - **Distorted Sound**: Reduce input levels or effects
   - **Parameter Changes Not Working**: Verify MIDI communication
   - **Presets Not Loading**: Check file permissions and locations

**Performance Issues**
   - **Slow Response**: Close unnecessary applications
   - **High CPU Usage**: Reduce real-time processing
   - **Memory Issues**: Restart the application
   - **Interface Lag**: Check system resources

Next Steps
==========

**Explore Advanced Features**
   Once you're comfortable with the basics:

   - **Read the Full Documentation**: Detailed guides for each editor
   - **Try Advanced Techniques**: Cross-modulation, complex effects chains
   - **Create Your Own Presets**: Build a personal sound library
   - **Integrate with DAW**: Use JDXI-Editor in your production workflow
   - **Join the Community**: Connect with other users and share knowledge

**Recommended Learning Path**
   1. **Master the Basics**: Get comfortable with basic sound design
   2. **Explore Each Editor**: Learn the capabilities of each editor type
   3. **Advanced Techniques**: Try complex modulation and effects
   4. **Performance Integration**: Optimize for live performance
   5. **Production Workflow**: Integrate with your recording setup

**Resources for Further Learning**
   - **User Guide**: Complete documentation for all features
   - **Video Tutorials**: Visual guides for complex techniques
   - **Community Forums**: Ask questions and share knowledge
   - **Preset Libraries**: Download and study other users' creations
   - **Regular Updates**: Stay current with new features and improvements

Congratulations! You're now ready to start creating amazing sounds with JDXI-Editor. Remember, the best way to learn is by experimenting and having fun with your Roland JD-Xi synthesizer!