RIG KONTROL 2

Operation Manual
The information in this document is subject to change without notice and does
not represent a commitment on the part of NATIVE INSTRUMENTS Software
Synthesis GmbH. The software described by this document is subject to a
License Agreement and may not be copied to other media. No part of this
publication may be copied, reproduced or otherwise transmitted or recorded,
for any purpose, without prior written permission by NATIVE INSTRUMENTS
Software Synthesis GmbH. All product and company names are ™ or ®
trademarks of their respective owners.

User’s Guide written by: Cliff Douse and Craig Anderton

© 2004-2005 NATIVE INSTRUMENTS Software Synthesis GmbH.

All rights reserved.

Germany USA
NATIVE INSTRUMENTS GmbH NATIVE INSTRUMENTS USA, Inc.
Schlesische Str. 29/30 5631 A Hollywood Boulevard
D-10997 Berlin Los Angeles, CA 90028
Germany USA
info@native-instruments.de info@native-instruments.com
www.native-instruments.de www.native-instruments.com
Table Of Contents
1 Using the unit safely........................................................................ 5
1.1 Warning..................................................................................... 5
1.2 Caution..................................................................................... 6
2 Important Notes ............................................................................ 7
3 Introduction.................................................................................... 8
3.1 Block Diagram........................................................................... 9
4 Parts of the Rig Kontrol 2 and their function......................................10
4.1 Top Panel.................................................................................10
4.2 Rear Panel...............................................................................11
5 Preparations...................................................................................13
5.1 Making the USB connection........................................................13
5.2 Setting the Rig Kontrol Panel Interface parameters.......................14
5.3 Connecting the guitar.................................................................14
5.4 Connecting a second guitar or stereo source.................................14
5.5 Connecting to a mixer, recorder or amplifier..................................14
5.6 Connecting headphones.............................................................14
5.7 Connecting to an external MIDI device.........................................15
5.8 Connecting to an external pedal or footswitch...............................15
6 Using the Rig Kontrol 2 with NI GUITAR RIG 2..................................16
6.1 Setting the Guitar Channel Level ................................................16
6.2 Activating the Rig Kontrol as a Control Device...............................16
6.3 The Virtual Rig Kontrol...............................................................17
6.4 Pedal Calibration.......................................................................17
6.5 Assigning the Foot Switches and Pedal........................................17
6.6 Using the Rig Kontrol with a Sequencer Software from Other
Manufacturers ...............................................................................17
6.7 Choosing the Rig Kontrol 2 Focus in Sequencers...........................18
7 Technical Specs..............................................................................19
8 Troubleshooting............................................................................. 20
8.1 No sound: .............................................................................. 20
8.2 Low volume of the guitar .......................................................... 20
8.3 Audible distortion: . ................................................................ 20
8.4 Audible noise: . ........................................................................21

RIG KONTROL 2 – III

IV – RIG KONTROL 2
1 Using the unit safely

1.1 Warning
• Before using this unit, please read the instructions below and the
Owner’s Manual.
• This product is USB bus-powered. Guaranteed operation only with
USB2 controller as a single device or with self-powered USB2 hubs.
• Do not open the device or attempt to disassemble or modify the internal
parts. The device contains no user-serviceable parts. If it appears to
be malfunctioning, discontinue use immediately and have it inspected
by qualified service personnel.
• Do not expose the unit to rain, use it near water or in damp or wet
conditions, or place containers on it containing liquids which might
spill into any openings. Do not allow any objects or liquids of any kind
to penetrate the unit.
• This product, in combination with an amplifier and headphones or
speakers, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause
permanent hearing loss. Do not operate it for long periods of time at
high volume levels. If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the
ears, you should consult an audiologist.

RIG KONTROL 2 – 
1.2 Caution
• Before connecting the device to other electronic components, turn off
the power for all components. Before turning the power on or off for
all components, set all volume levels to minimum. Gradually raise the
volume controls while playing the instruments to set the desired listen-
ing level.
• Do not place the Rig Kontrol 2 in an unstable position where it might
accidentally fall over.
• Before moving the Rig Kontrol 2, remove all connected cables.
• Never use or store the unit in places that are subject to temperature
extremes (e.g., direct sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near to a heating
or heat-generating equipment), or high levels of vibration.
• Do not use excessive force on the pedal, buttons, knobs, switches or
connectors.
• When cleaning the Rig Kontrol 2, use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use paint
thinners, solvents, cleaning fluids, or chemical-impregnated wiping
cloths.

 – RIG KONTROL 2
2 Important Notes
Disposal Notice
Should this product become damaged beyond repair, or for some reason its
useful life is considered to be at an end, please observe all regulations of your
area and country that relate to the disposal of products.

Specifications subject to change

The information contained in this manual is believed to be correct at the time
of printing. However, Native Instruments reserves the right to make changes
to the specifications at any time without notice or obligation to update exist-
ing units.

Copyright
© Native Instruments GmbH 2005. This publication may not be reproduced
in whole or in part, summarized, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval
system, or translated into any language, in any form or by any means without
the prior written permission of Native Instruments GmbH.

Name Plate Location

The name plate is located on the bottom of the product. It lists the product’s
model name and other technical information. The serial number is also located
on the bottom.

Disclaimer
Native Instruments GmbH cannot be held responsible for damage caused
by improper use or modification to the Rig Kontrol 2, or data that is lost or
destroyed.

RIG KONTROL 2 – 
3 Introduction
Welcome to the Rig Kontrol 2. Please read this owner’s manual thoroughly to
make the best use of the product. Please keep this manual in a safe place
for later reference.
The Rig Kontrol 2 is a high quality foot controller designed for use with the NI
GUITAR RIG 2 software. It offers a built-in high quality soundcard and is also
a preamplifier for electric guitar and bass. It boasts a robust metal casing,
capable of withstanding the demands of live performance.
The Rig Kontrol 2 digitizes the analog signals from your guitar, bass, keyboard
or other line devices, and conveys them via a high speed USB2 connection
to your computer, where the GUITAR RIG 2 software processes them in real
time. The processed digital signal is then converted back to analog and sent
to the audio line outputs.
The controller offers 7 freely-assignable foot switches and an expression
pedal, giving you near-to-analog control over sound parameters and volume.
The resolution of the pedal is higher than that of a MIDI pedal.
The GUITAR RIG 2 presets in use are indicated numerically in the Rig Kontrol
2 display.

 – RIG KONTROL 2
3.1 Block Diagram

The above block diagram shows that the Rig Kontrol 2 contains two guitar
input channels. These can also be used to connect other high level output
devices such as a keyboard, mixer or CD player.
The inputs are specially optimized for guitar signals. Each input has an Input
Gain control for adjusting the amplitude of the input signal. An LED linked
to a clipping detector indicates if the input signal is too loud (green=OK,
red=clip) and needs adjusting. Additional LEDs indicate output activity and
MIDI activity.
All of the control and configuration signals run over the USB connection.
You can choose an unbalanced output by connecting a 2-pole cable (+ signal,
ground), or a balanced output by using a 3-pole cable (+ signal, - signal and
ground).

RIG KONTROL 2 – 
4 Parts of the Rig Kontrol 2 and their function

4.1 Top Panel

(1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6): Foot Switches 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6

The function of these switches can be assigned in the software to perform
tasks such as stepping through presets and setting bypass on/off. Each switch
has an LED to show if it is activated.

(7) Expression Pedal

The pedal can be used to control any continuous parameter of the software,
such as the volume or peak frequency of a wah-wah. There is an additional
free assignable switch under the pedal.

(8) Pedal Switch LED

LED to show if the switch under the pedal is activated.

10 – RIG KONTROL 2
(9) Output activity LED
Shows whether or not an audio signal is passed to the Rig Kontrol 2’s audio
output.

(10) Input Activity LED

Displays a green light when an audio signal is fed into Rig Kontrol 2. It turns
red if there is clipping.

(11) MIDI activity LED

Indicates when the Rig Kontrol 2 is receiving MIDI signals from a sequencer
or other controller.

(12) LED Display

Shows the GUITAR RIG 2 preset currently in use.

4.2 Rear Panel

(13) Gain 1 knob

This knob controls the gain of the first channel.

(14) In 1 jack
Here you can plug in the cable from your guitar, bass, keyboard, CD player
or mixer.

(15) In 2 jack
Here you can plug in the cable of a second guitar, bass, keyboard or the right
channel of a stereo device.

(16) Gain 2 knob

This knob controls the gain of the second channel.

RIG KONTROL 2 – 11
(17), (18) Outputs (L/R)
These jacks output the balanced/unbalanced treated guitar signal.

(19) High/Low output switch

The output can be set to full scale (High) or –14dB (Low). The “Low” mode
is just recommended for guitar / bass amps or HiFi systems. For active studio
monitors, mixers and other studio gear please use the “High” mode.

(20) Headphones level control

Adjusts the sound level sent to the headphones.

(21) Headphones output jack (stereo)

For connecting stereo headphones.

(22) USB2 interface

For connection to your computer’s USB2.0 port.

(23), (24) MIDI In/Out sockets

The MIDI In socket is for receiving data from a MIDI controller, while the
MIDI Out socket is for sending data from the Rig Kontrol 2 to a sequencer
or other MIDI device.

(25), (26) Controller inputs

For use with external expression pedals, footswitches, volume pedals or switch-
boxes.

12 – RIG KONTROL 2
5 Preparations

5.1 Making the USB connection

Before using Rig Kontrol 2, the Rig Kontrol 2 USB2 driver must be installed.
When you installed GUITAR RIG 2, the driver should have been installed
automatically as part of the GUITAR RIG 2 installation. However, with some
systems, the driver may be associated with a particular USB port. If you plug
the USB cable into a different port, your computer may not recognize the
driver.
If this occurs, after booting your computer, wait until it shows the desktop.
Then use a USB lead to connect the Rig Kontrol 2’s USB2 interface to a
USB2 port on your computer. This will supply power to the Rig Kontrol 2 and
allow transfer of audio and other data. The computer should recognize the
GUITAR RIG USB interface automatically. (Note: It is necessary that Windows
XP users have Service Pack 2, installed.)
If the computer does not recognize the interface, insert the GUITAR RIG 2
distribution CD-ROM into your disc drive, then locate the installer file. Double-
click on this to start the installation procedure.
Note that if at any time after installation the computer does not seem to rec-
ognize the USB interface, with both the computer and Rig Kontrol 2 powered
on, disconnect the USB connection, wait a few seconds, then re-connect it.
If this still doesn’t work, re-start your computer with the Rig Kontrol 2 turned
on and connected to your computer via USB.

RIG KONTROL 2 – 13
5.2 Setting the Rig Kontrol Panel Interface parameters
The soundcard parameters are found in the Rig Kontrol Control Panel.
The following options are available:
Sample Rate: 44100Hz, 48000Hz, 96000Hz. Choose the rate that matches
your host program. In stand-alone mode, NI recommends using the highest
possible sample rate to insure the best possible sound.
Data Format: 16 Bit, 24 Bit. Again, choose the rate that matches your host
program. In stand-alone mode, choose 24 Bit.
Buffer Size (Latency): [in msec] Use the lowest setting possible that still
maintains audio quality without pops or crackles.
Interface Version: Indicates the hardware interface version.
Driver Version: Indicates the driver version. Check the NI web site periodically
to see if updated drivers are available.

5.3 Connecting the guitar

With the volume down on your monitoring system, plug your guitar cable or
left stereo channel into the In 1 jack.

5.4 Connecting a second guitar or stereo source

The second input can be used for a second guitar or the right stereo channel
or plug in your bass or other high level output devices such as a keyboard,
mixer or CD player.

5.5 Connecting to a mixer, recorder or amplifier

Use 6,3 mm jack cables to connect your L/R outputs to a mixer, recorder,
hi-fi unit or active speakers. For more information on hooking up Rig Kontrol’s
audio connections, see the corresponding Chapter in the main GUITAR RIG
2 manual.

5.6 Connecting headphones

Connect your headphones to the stereo headphone jack socket and adjust
the volume with the Headphones Level Control knob.

14 – RIG KONTROL 2
5.7 Connecting to an external MIDI device
To enable the Rig Kontrol 2 to receive data from a MIDI controller such as a
keyboard or a MIDI pedal board, connect the MIDI Out socket of your con-
troller to the MIDI In socket on Rig Kontrol 2 via a MIDI cable. To send data
from Rig Kontrol 2, connect its MIDI Out socket to the MIDI In on the device
you wish to control. Make sure both connected MIDI devices are set to the
same MIDI channel.

5.8 Connecting to an external pedal or footswitch

Additional pedals (expression, volume, etc.) can also be used with GUITAR
RIG 2 by connecting them up to the extra pedal inputs on the far right of
the Rig Kontrol 2’s back panel. Calibration via software is needed. Use the
‘Resets Pedal Calibration’ function in the global preference section of GUITAR
RIG 2 for this.

RIG KONTROL 2 – 15
6 Using the Rig Kontrol 2 with NI GUITAR RIG 2

6.1 Setting the Guitar Channel Level

When the Rig Kontrol is connected via USB and a guitar is plugged into
channel 1, the input meter in GUITAR RIG 2’s title bar should indicate that
there’s level in one of the channels. Adjust the Rig Kontrol Gain 1 knob so
that for loud playing the level reaches the yellow area, but make sure the red
overload indicator does not light up. Alternately, you could plug your guitar
into channel 2, and use the Gain 2 knob to adjust gain.
With a stereo source, such Chapman Stick, some guitars and basses, electronic
keyboards, etc., you would plug into channels 1 and 2, then adjust gain with
the Gain 1 and Gain 2 knobs.
Note that if you are plugged into only one channel, the other channel’s knob
should be set to minimum.
If you experience a delay between playing your instrument and hearing it
through your speakers or headphones, please note that latency is not due to
the Rig Kontrol interface, which is optimized for the lowest possible latency.
Rather, make sure that your host program is set to the minimum possible
amount of latency. Consult your host’s manual for details on how to adjust
latency (usually found in an “audio preferences” section).
If your host does not seem to accept the audio signal coming from the Rig
Control, a different interface may be selected. For example, with a laptop, the
computer may have automatically selected an internal audio interface. Make
sure the Rig Kontrol USB audio interface is selected as the main interface
in your host program.

6.2 Activating the Rig Kontrol as a Control Device

Unlike the original Rig Kontrol, which conveyed pedal and switch positions
via audio signals, Rig Kontrol 2 sends this data transparently over USB. All
assignment of GUITAR RIG 2 parameters to the Rig Kontrol 2 switches and
pedal is done within the GUITAR RIG 2 software, as described in the main
GUITAR RIG 2 manual.

16 – RIG KONTROL 2
6.3 The Virtual Rig Kontrol
If you click in the Control Center on the button with the Rig Kontrol icon,
you’ll see a representation of the Rig Kontrol 2 hardware toward the lower
left of the GUITAR RIG 2 screen. Here you can see the state of the various
switches, pedals, and indicators, as well as assign software parameters. You
can also simulate actions on the hardware by clicking on hardware elements
represented on the Rig Kontrol graphic.

6.4 Pedal Calibration

If you plug in your Rig Kontrol 2 for the first time a calibration dialog will open
up. This calibration is permanent. However, if you experience any problems with
pedal calibration, click on “Reset Pedal Calibration” in the Global menu.
External pedals need to be calibrated via software routines. To calibrate external
pedals use the ‘Resets Pedal Calibration’ function in the global preference
section of GUITAR RIG 2 for this.

6.5 Assigning the Foot Switches and Pedal

GUITAR RIG allows assigning the foot switches and expression pedal
to various software parameters by either the simple “Learn” function, or the
more detailed Controller list.
To access the Learn function, right-click on any controllable parameter to bring
up a context menu. To use the Learn function, click on Learn and move the
hardware element to be assigned.
To access the controller list, click on the Edit button to open the Controller
list and the related assignment to Preset changes. For a detailed description,
please refer to the GUITAR RIG manual.

6.6 Using the Rig Kontrol with a Sequencer Software from Other
Manufacturers
Because Rig Kontrol is a USB audio interface, it provides a simple, high-quality
way to send mono or stereo audio into your desktop or laptop computer, as well
as provide a stereo audio output. This can be used not only for guitar, but for
synthesizers and other low- or line-level signals (however, most microphones
will need to use a mic preamp prior to feeding the Rig Kontrol).

RIG KONTROL 2 – 17
In a host program like a DAW, the Rig Kontrol will show up as an available USB
interface. You will need to select this or enable it within the host program;
refer to its manual for details on enabling and disabling audio devices.
The MIDI Input can receive MIDI data and send it to your host program, which
can transmit MIDI data over the MIDI Out port. As with audio ins and outs,
the MIDI in and out will show up as MIDI devices within your host software.
Refer to its manual for details on enabling and disabling MIDI devices.

6.7 Choosing the Rig Kontrol 2 Focus in Sequencers

The Active button in the upper section of the Rig Kontrol 2 graphic in GUITAR
RIG 2 ties the Rig Kontrol 2 to a particular instance of GUITAR RIG 2. For
example, if you have multiple instances of GUITAR RIG 2 running under your
host, you may not necessarily want Rig Kontrol 2 to control the top-most
instance. The Active button insures which instance will receive control.

18 – RIG KONTROL 2
7 Technical Specs
Jacks and sockets:
Input: 2 x 6.3mm jacks (In 1, In 2)
Output: 2 x 6.3mm jacks (Out 1, Out 2) balanced TRS (tip/ring/sleeve) or
unbalanced
Headphones: 1 x 6.3mm stereo jack
Pedal inputs: 2 x stereo 6.3mm jacks for external pedals / footswitches /
switchboxes
(Pedal 1, Pedal 2)
MIDI: 2 MIDI (In/Out) 5-pin DIN circular connector
Computer connection: 1 x USB 2.0 Type B

Input
Sampling rate AD: 44,1; 48; 96kHz
Input impedance: 1 MOhms
Maximum input level: 5 Vpp, +10dBu
Signal noise ratio: < -96 dB
Dynamic range: 100dB (ADC) Max. range of Input Gain 1 and 2: +14 dB

Output
Sampling Rate DA: 44,1 ; 48; 96kHz
Output impedance: <100 Ohms
Maximum output level: 5 Vpp, +10dBu
Signal noise ratio: < -97 dB
High/low level switch: full scale 5Vpp / -14dB

Headphone
Output impedance: >16 Ohm
Maximum output power: 150mW/ channel
Control range headphones level: -72 dB (in 32 steps)
Power supply:
Via USB 2.0 interface, 5V 500mA bus power
No additional power supply or battery is needed, only power from the USB
bus. However, proper operation is guaranteed only when Rig Kontrol is used
as a single device with a USB2 controller, or with self-powered USB2 hubs.
Dimensions: 360 x 237 x 102 mm (14.1 x 9.3 x 4 inches)
Weight: 2.6 kg (5.7 lbs)

RIG KONTROL 2 – 19
Environmental specifications:
Operating temperature: 0 to 40˚C (85% non-condensing humidity)
Storage temperature: -20 to 50˚C (85% non-condensing humidity)

8 Troubleshooting
If you encounter problems, the following are common solutions.

8.1 No sound:
• Disconnected or broken cables.
• In the Audio+MIDI settings the wrong soundcard or input is selected.
• Wrong channel selected in the input module of the GUITAR RIG 2.
• Wrong ASIO/USB driver is selected.

8.2 Low volume of the guitar

• The Rig Kontrol Gain control is set too low.
• Your guitar‘s volume knob is turned down.

8.3 Audible distortion:

• The Rig Kontrol 2’s Gain is adjusted too high so that the preamp is
clipping. Please reduce the Gain at the Rig Kontrol 2. If your guitar
delivers such a high signal that the preamp is always overdriven, please
reduce the volume at the guitar. This happens only with special very
high power pickups.

20 – RIG KONTROL 2
8.4 Audible noise:
Hum
• You are using single-coil pickups. Humbucking pickups produce much
less hum.
• The pickups are close to electrical equipment. Please try moving the
guitar to a different position to see if this reduces hum.
• The volume at the guitar is low. Please turn up the volume knob(s).
• You are using a non-shielded or broken guitar cable.

Hiss
• The Rig Kontrol 2 preamp is not getting enough level. Please turn up
the guitar volume or Rig Kontrol 2 Gain.

Radio interference
• You are using a non-shielded or broken guitar cable, or your guitar’s
shielding is inadequate.

RIG KONTROL 2 – 21