cfs@sfmag.UUCP (C.Schimmel) (11/14/85)
I have some upgrade information for Matrix-12 owners. I called Oberheim again to check on the status of the long awaited pressure sensor retrofit for the keyboard (for those not familiar with the Matrix-12, the keyboard currently responds to both velocity when you press a key and release velocity when you release it. Velocity can be used to modulate almost any voice parameter. The pressure sensor would also let you modulate voice parameters with pressure while the key is held down). The retrofit is now supposed to be available in January '86 free of charge to Matrix-12 owners. Hopefully it will really be available this time (it was supposed to be available in the spring and then in September of this year). At the same time, an optional upgrade that will provide individual voice outputs will also be available (currently only left, right, and mono outputs are available on the back. The Matrix-12 contains a mixer to mix down the 12 voices internally). You'll have to pay for this one but they say the cost will be "reasonable". To get these upgrades installed you'll have to bring your Matrix-12 to a service center. Also the new Matrix-12 owners manual will be available in January. Those who sent in the card in front of the current manual should receive it in the mail automatically without charge. Finally the Midi-spec for the Matrix-12 is available now at no charge to current owners. To get one, call Oberheim at 213-479-4948 and ask for Sally (remember that they're on Pacific time). I haven't gotten mine my yet so I don't how good it is but I assume it would describe the system exclusive codes. If you have questions about your Matrix-12 you can call Burt at the above number between 1 and 4 pm (Pacific time). He's always been very willing to answer my questions whenever I've called him. Curt Schimmel