In short, you probably want to download my blank virtual disk file for the Nalbantov or other emulators. These work on your Disklavier—specifically the Marks I and II—and on your computer.
If you have an early Disklavier model like the DKC5R or DKC100R, you might have decided to install a Nalbantov floppy emulator in place of the original disk drive. This is a fantastic way to keep your instrument running smoothly. And it’s much easier to transfer music files to and from your computer with a USB stick.
However, there’s a common issue I’ve run into when folks try recording using the “blank” virtual disk (HFE) on Nalbantov’s USB stick.
Here’s the scenario:
- You start your Disklavier and select one of the blank virtual disks.
- The Disklavier displays a message indicating the disk needs to be formatted or converted.
- After formatting, you plug the USB back into your computer… and the file won’t open in HxC Disk Browser. You can’t access your recorded files!
The Disklavier does not recognize the blank files on the Nalbantov USB. And after you format them with the Disklavier, the computer doesn’t recognize them!
This is not a concern on later Disklaviers starting with the Mark II XGs. They’ll readily recognize blank virtual disks. If you format the disk with the Disklavier as a MIDI disk, the computer it’ll be readable on the computer as well.
I’ve addressed the issue for older Disklaviers by creating special blank HFE files that the Disklavier will accept immediately—no formatting required. And they also remain readable in HxC Disk Browser. This means you can pop your USB into the Disklavier, record or store data, and then bring it back to your PC to manage or back up files without any hassle.
This file is available for download here: https://www.alexanderpeppe.com/transfer/s/Gg6X5ydTzLWssSy
Add my blank HFE files onto your Nalbantov USB stick, and you’ll be all set! It’s a quick fix that saves you from reformatting loops and potential data loss.
If you have the Nalbantov eXtreme or a Gotek with an OLED and FlashFloppy, you can name this file whatever you’d like. If you’re using a Nalbantov Slim or other device with a numerical display, make sure to use the naming conventions on the disk. Use names such as DSKA0001.hfe, DSKA0010.hfe, or whatever number is appropriate in your case. If you’re doing a lot of recording, add a bunch of copies!
For more information about Nalbantovs, see their website at https://floppyusbemulator.com/. Use AlexPiano for 5% off.