FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a forum?
Yes. Please follow this link to our forums, click here. You will need a valid email address to sign-up for an account. It can take up to 24 hours before your account is approved.

What is a NeKo?
The OpenSynth™ NeKo™ is the ultimate performance and studio keyboard workstation. A beautifully designed, self-contained recording, editing, and mastering system, NeKo represents the new standard in keyboard workstations. NeKo can accommodate the fastest processors available, and more RAM and storage than any other keyboard workstation. Utilizing the Windows XP operating system environment, NeKo's versatility is second to none. NeKo can run virtually any application or plug-in designed for Windows XP including VST, VSTi, VST2, DXi, DX, and RTAS formats and applications such as Nuendo, Cubase, V-Stack, Reason, Orion Pro, Sonar, and many others. With PCI slots that can accept full-size PCI cards, and with interchangeable control modules, the NeKo is designed to support both existing and future control options. The NeKo's all-in-one design and user-friendly interface enable the less technical musician to focus on what really matters -- the music -- while providing unsurpassed power and features that the most technically savvy studio engineers require. The videos in the playlist above discribe the NeKo in more detail.

What is a MiKo?
The OpenSynth™ MiKo™ is a more portable version of the NeKo. The videos in the playlist above describe the MiKo in more detail.

Can I register my product with Open Labs?
Yes, please take a moment to Register your product with us.

How can I place an order if I reside outside of the US?
You can place an order directly through our online store or if there is a dealer in your country, you can order from them if you prefer. Please reference the dealer page in our site for a list of our authorized dealers.

What the difference between V4 and Gen4?
Gen4 is a hardware upgrade from the Gen3. V4 is a software library. Gen4 and V4 were designed to work together as a package.

Can I get online tech support?
Yes, you can. Open Labs' instruments are equipped with an Ethernet port allowing access to the internet via a broadband connection for downloading the latest sounds and plug-ins, sharing your music and video, or for on-line tech support from Open Labs. If you run into an issue that requires support, our online technicians can remotely view and control your instrument, no matter where you are on the planet – even move your cursor to navigate to the issue while you watch and learn – and help you get back to making music, without ever having to leave your studio. You must first register your product to schedule an on-line session.

Why is there not a Controller Panel on the Timbaland Special Edition (TSE) NeKo?
The design of the TSE NeKo is based on the design of the TSE MiKo. By keeping the design the same, it makes it extremely easy for users who own both models to have a unified workflow as well as 100% compatibility for projects and other aspects right out of the box. It also simplifies support for installation that may have a great number of units in house.

Can I run GigaStudio on my Open Labs product?
GigaStudio is an amazing application that is perfectly suited for Open Labs™ hardware. It operates at the kernel level of the operating system which gives the end user amazing performance at extremely low latency. However, due to the nature of its performance, GigaStudio can cause system instability when installed with other audio applications. If you wish to install GigaStudio we recommend uninstalling all unrelated audio applications and use your NeKo as a "Giga DAW."

Can I install any of my own audio applications and plug-ins on a NeKo/MiKo?
Yes, The Neko/Miko will accept any application or plug-in that is compatible with Windows XP.

I read that using MimiK, I will be able to clone my current keyboards, and use the sounds on a NeKo/MiKo. How is that possible?
1. Install MimiK into an Open Labs NeKo keyboard production station or MiKo portable work center.
2. Connect via MIDI, the source keyboard or hardware sound module to the NeKo or MiKo.
3. Connect the output of the source keyboard or hardware sound module to the inputs of the NeKo or MiKo.
4. Set up some basic parameters within MimiK.
5. Select the "Clone" button in MimiK.
6. MimiK will automatically sample all presets complete with after touch and other nuances.
7. Play or sequence cloned sounds using the NeKo or MiKo.

I really want to demo a NeKo/MiKo. Is the NeKo/MiKo available in music stores?
Yes, call one of our dealers in your area or contact us directly at 512-444-6222.

I have a 24 inch widescreen monitor; will I be able to use it with NeKo/MiKo?
Yes, NeKo/MiKo has an external monitor output with a maximum resolution of 2048x1536. You can use this connection to hook up and extend your desktop to your widescreen monitor.

Will I be able to produce my CD with a NeKo/MiKo?
Yes, Neko/Miko is configured so you can immediately start creating your music. It is not necessary to purchase or install any other software or plug-ins. All you need are some blank CDs.

I really want to be able to send friends and colleagues my new mixes, how can this be done with a NeKo/MiKo?
NeKo/MiKo has a built in Ethernet port. You will be able to plug this directly into your cable/DSL modem, enabling you to email, collaborate and share your work over the net.

I have an older NeKo/MiKo; can my machine be upgraded to the current specifications?
Yes, however there may be nominal fees involved. Give us a call at 512-444-6222 to discuss the various options.

I am new to recording and computer based recording stations. How will I be able to use NeKo/MiKo? And, if I my unit is not working properly how can I get it repaired?
Via the internet, an Open Labs Technical Support Guru can remotely log-in to your NeKo/MiKo, and give you basic tutorials on using the unit. The Tech will also be able to repair most software related issues on the remote session. This service is free to all owners of NeKo/MiKo. Also, there are various video tutorials and user guides pre loaded on the unit.

Are the sounds on a MiKo/NeKo comparable to other keyboards on the market?
Yes, the sounds installed on a NeKo/MiKo rival the best keyboards on the market. With purchasing Mimik and installing it on a NeKo/MiKo you will even be able to clone the banks of your favorite keyboards.

What type of Audio/Midi Interface does a MiKo/NeKo ship with?
Our current models have a 4 in/6 out recording interface, two (2) phantom powered microphone preamp inputs, as well as MIDI in/out ports. For more detailed technical specifications please browse the product section of our website.

Will I be able to install my DSP audio card into my MiKo/NeKo?
Yes, to ensure proper configuration, we advise contacting an Open Labs Technical Support Guru for a detailed installation procedure.

Will I be able to use Pro Tools on a MiKo/NeKo?
Yes. However, we advise you to first contact Open Labs for information regarding the installation of Pro Tools.

Is it possible to connect a wireless Network Adapter if yes which brand to go and has a good driver that will not conflict with NeKo/MiKo?
Yes, We have tested 802.11g wifi devices from Gigabyte and Netgear. Warning, do not leave them connected while you are working with your audio app as it can cause dropouts. We recommend a USB wireless network adapter so that it can be connected and disconnected easily.

Will you help me with third-party software and hardware?
Please consult customer-support for that company, or check online forums specific to that product. For your convinence we have linked some of the more frequently requested company websites below:
www.cakewalk.com
www.digidesign.com
www.lividinstruments.com
www.motu.com
www.native-instruments.com
www.propellerheads.se
www.steinberg.net
www.sonycreativesoftware.com

Do you have any customer testimonials?
Yes, we have a list here.

 

 

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