8

01 

Overview of the OCTAPAD

What is an Inst?

All the sounds and instruments on board the OCTAPAD are referred to as 

“INST.”

What is does Layer mean?

Two Insts (Inst A, Inst B) can be assigned to each pad.

“Inst Layer Type” (p. 30) lets you choose how the Layer function will 

operate. The layered sounds can be mixed equally, or can be controlled 

by playing dynamics. With a hi-hat for example, by playing softly you can 

have the closed hi-hat sound, and when playing harder, the open hi-hat 

sound (p. 33). Or you can use a snare drum sound, so when play softly you 

hear the head sound, and when playing louder you can have a rim shot.

Volume

Playing 

Dynamics

Volume

Playing 

Dynamics

When the layer type is “FADE”

When the layer type is “SWITCH”

What is a Kit?

All instruments assigned to the eight pads and four external pads (p. 60) 

as well as the effects used, are memorized as a “Kit.” You can select kits by 

pressing the [KIT] buttons (or foot-switches).
In live performance situations, the Kit Chain function allows you to 

determine the switching order of selected kits. See p. 37. Also there is a 

Favorite function, giving you quick access to your favorite kits. See p. 22.