The internal metronome function of the DTX-Multi 12 is an often overlooked component of the unit and, left untouched, leaves the potential for a mid-performance disaster for any marching band or indoor percussion program.
Indeed, I have lived through the DTX metronome blaring full-blast through a marching audio system; in Lucas Oil Stadium, no less! In this quick guide, we will go through the steps of muting the DTX-M12 internal metronome to avoid a mid-performance disaster.
The Process
The process of muting the internal metronome isn't a difficult task once you know where to look inside the various screen menus available.
Step 1
Press the "UTILITY" button to access the Utilities menu in the DTX. The screen will read:
"UTIL1
GENERAL"
Step 2
Use the ">" right arrow button to navigate to the "UTIL2 CLICK" option and press the "ENTER" button. Here we enter the Click (metronome) menu where changes can be make to the various aspects of the internal metronome.
- These options include the sound of the metronome, the volume, subdivisions, output options, and MIDI settings.
Step 3
After opening the Click Menu, use the ">" right arrow button once more to navigate to "UTIL2-2 Volume." This is where the volume of the metronome can be controlled.
Step 4
Hold the "DEC" button (with the minus sign on it) down until the volume level reaches 0.
Step 5
We now save the change to make sure our work stays in effect. Press the "STORE" button, followed by the "ENTER" button.
With the metronome volume adjusted to 0, the DTX will not produce a sound even if the Metronome Button is accidentally pressed. At this point, you can confidently go into a performance situation with confidence that no mishaps will occur...
...However, there is one more precaution that can be taken to ensure nothing goes wrong.
An Additional Precaution
This last measure is certainly redundant, but can provide that much more peace of mind. Here, we will change the output routing of the DTX-M12's internal Click.
Step 1
Navigate back to the Click menu by pressing the "UTILITY" button and using the ">" right arrow button to find UTIL2. Press "ENTER" once more to open the Click utility menu.
Step 2
Use the ">" right arrow button to navigate to "UTIL2-4." The screen should read "ClkOutSel" which translates to Click Output Select. By default, the Click output is set to the main Left/Right outputs and the headphone output.
Step 3
Press the "INC" button (with the "+" sign on it) to change the Click output from the default option to the headphone-only option. When this option is selected, the metronome will only be heard from the headphone jack when triggered (if the metronome volume is up).
Step 4
Lastly, be sure to save the new output routing so that the change stays in effect, even after the DTX is powered off and back on.
This extra precaution may not be completely necessary, but is another method to ensure success on the field or floor when using a DTX-Multi 12 in your front ensemble.
Final Thoughts
By taking a few minutes to make these adjustments, you can have supreme peace-of-mind and confidence in using the DTX-M12 sampler with your group while avoiding potential mishaps.
As always, feel free to reach out to us via our contact page if you run into any questions about using your Yamaha DTX or if you would like to discuss sound design for your group. Also be sure to check out our other services for the Pageantry Arts here!
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