Subject: ROLAND.FAQ - September 94 Edition
From: tdh@manta.dwp.la.ca.us (Tom Honles)
Date: 8 Sep 94 17:25:29 GMT
Summary: This is the latest edition of a collection of information and specs
==========================================================================
ROLAND MUSICAL EQUIPMENT
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS/FEATURES AND SPECS
==========================================================================
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Edition 0.940907 September 7, 1994 ROLAND.FAQ Number 6
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Introduction
============
This is the latest edition of a collection of information and specs on
Roland musical gear. I have seen questions on the Usenet and FTSC nets
over and over again asking what Roland equipment features are. I hope this
effort will help the situation. This is a 'work in progress'. This FAQ
will be posted on the first Wednesday of each month on the following:
(Usenet) comp.sys.ibm.pc.soundcard.music
(Usenet) rec.music.makers.synth
(Fidonet) MIDI-NET
For any who would want to FREQ the ROLAND.FAQ in it's pre-release draft form
including all interim updates:
FReq: ROLAND.FAQ from 1:102/945 (FidoNet)
There is no FTP site available at this time.
Information that you would like to include in this list is welcome. E-Mail
is preferred, but if you do not have netmail access, then a message addressed
in this conference addressed to me is acceptable, as long as traffic does not
become a problem for the moderator and other particpants. Please refer to the
section at the end of this document, "How to Submit Corrections & Additions"
for suggested format.
Tom Honles
Internet: tdh@f945.n102.z1.fidonet.org OR tdh@manta.dwp.la.ca.us
Fidonet : Tom Honles @ 1:102/945
Familynet: Tom Honles @ 8:77/28
OS2Net : Tom Honles @ 81:307/6
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TABLE OF CONTENTS:
==========================================================================
Introduction
Table of Contents
Equipment Specs and Descriptions
1. EFFECT UNITS
2. GUITARS AND STRINGED CONTROLLERS
3. KEYBOARDS, KEYED CONTROLLERS
- Polyphonic Synthesizers
- Monophonic Synthesizers
- Sequencer/Programming Units, MIDI controllers
4. MODULES AND MIDI COMPUTER PERIPHERALS
5. RHYTHM UNITS / DRUM MACHINES
6. QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Q. What is the "Roland GS" standard?
Q. What drum sounds are available in Roland MIDI equipment?
Q. What drum sounds are available in the "Standard" General MIDI kit?
Appendices
- About the ROLAND.FAQ
- How to submit corrections & additions to this document.
- Credits (partial)
- How to Contact Roland Corporation, telephone and other information
- Disclaimer
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EQUIPMENT SPECS AND DESCRIPTIONS
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1. EFFECT UNITS
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Analog and Digital effects processors, BOSS or Roland.
DEP-5 Digital Effects Processor MIDI in/out, Rackmount
-------------------------------
The DEP-5 is a versatile effect unit that features non-linear Reverb
(Gate Reverb) and Delay effects as well as Reverb and Chorus. Using the
Algorithm function, these effects can be combined creating subtle
effects. Up to 99 different effect settings "patches" can be written
into memory and selected by number. Each effect passes through the
built-in parametric 3-band digital equalizer. The MIDI section
responds to the Program Change message to select any one of the 99
programmed settings. Rackmount, full width (19"W x 1-7/8"H x 11-3/8"D).
- 16-bit D/A conversion system,
with 28-bit internal DSP for 90dB dynamic range
- Sampling rate: 32kHz
- Freq. response:
Direct: 10Hz - 100 kHz @ +0 max, -3dB max ; S/N Ratio = 95dB
Effect: 30Hz - 12 kHz @ +0 max, -3dB max ; S/N Ratio = 80dB
- Delay: 0 to 2000 mS
- Reverb: 11 "Room", 7 "Hall", 2 "Plate", and 2 "Special"
0.1 sec. to 99 sec. decay
SDE-2000 Digital Delay Rackmount
----------------------
- Delay times from 0 (?) to 640 mS, selectable in 1mS increments
- 16K RAM, 12-bit A/D converter
- LED display of actual delay time
- modulation section features 2 waveforms:
sine - for doubling and flanging
triangle - chorusing
- adjustable modulation rate and depth, input sensitivity, feedback
- single repeat, mixed, and repeat hold modes
(Data source: Roland Users Group Magazine)
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2. GUITARS AND STRINGED CONTROLLERS
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Guitar synthesizers, controllers, MIDI units, digital effect units.
Note: The guitar synthesizers are listed chronologically.
GR-500/GS-500 Non-MIDI Analog Guitar Synthesizer System
----------------------------------------------------------
The GR-500 was billed as a _paraphonic_ guitar synth, featured
slider-adjustable parameters on the console. The unit was on its own stand,
like a keyboard, and recalling what the Avatar looked like, the 500 looks
pretty similar.
According to the Roland literature: "The GS500/GR500 is the first guitar
synthesizer in the world - a true pioneer. Connected to a mating
synthesizer GR500, GS500 boasts the following features and characteristics:
1. A synthesizer for guitarists, it can be played the same way as an
ordinary guitar.
2. It is a paraphonic system comprising five sections; guitar, polyensemble,
bass, solo melody, and external synthesizer. They can be played
simultaneously thereby producing sounds in unique modes..."
The GS-500 guitar/synth controller was styled like a Les Paul "copy",
except it had only one humbucking pickup somewhat farther from the bridge
than the bridge pickup usually is, and a smaller hexaphonic split pickup
was installed immediately next to the bridge. Lots and lots of knobs!!!
The synthesizer unit could be played mixed in with guitar sound or
separately. A short description on each 'section ' of the synthesizer:
The Guitar Section featured an interesting implementation of an equalizer,
having only one slider on the synth unit ranging from 'low' to 'high' and
together with the switch on the guitar, worked like a variable pickup
selector switch allowing "1 or 2 or 3 notes" to be selected.
The Poly-Ensemble Section was an envelope generator with separate Attack,
Decay, and Sustain controls and a 4-part voicing mixer for 'simulating
string notes such as violin, brass ensembles, harpsichord ...'.
The Bass Section featured suppression of previously picked notes as a new
note was produced for a 'double playing effect'. An ADS envelope generator,
soft-hard voice mixer, percussion control ("attack"?) and decay switch were
included to 'simulate bass bowing, tuba notes, etc." The triggering was
selectable from "all" strings, 3-strings (4th/5th/6th), or 2-string
(5th/6th).
The Solo-Melody Section was the 'real synthesizer' part, and could be used
with the preceding sections, including the previously picked note
suppression. It featured:
- Pulse Width Modulation and Changeover Switch (LFO/Manual/Envelope)
- Mixer for VCO (16' Square, 8' Square, 8' Ramp, Polyensemble)
- VCF with Cutoff Frequency and Resonance Controls
- LFO frequency control
- Envelope Generator with A/D/S controls
- Modulation
- Envelope/LFO/Pitch Follower
- Pitch Follower/Pedal Control Changeover Switch
- VCA (Initial Gain, Envelope)
- Touch Sense Changeover Switch ( 2 / 1 / Off)
The External Synthesizer Section was designed to interface with Roland's
System 700, System 100/101/102 or SH-5. It included a portamento time
control and a transposition control:
(32'F / 16' F,5,3 / 8' F,5,3 / 4' F,5,3 / 2' F /1' F )
( I think the F = fundamental, 5= 5th interval, 3= 3rd interval)
Using this section, the GR-500 would send the corresponding trigger to the
external synthesizer(s).
I don't have any articles on who played/endorsed the unit, but I recall that
at this point, the guitar synthesizer did not take very well with musicians
on account of the slow response and limited tones. I agree that the GR-300
was the first really 'usable' guitar synth, but fellows like McLaughlin,
if indeed he employed the unit on his 1976 album would dispute that!
GR-300 Non-MIDI Analog Synth Unit (requires GR-300 series controller)
------------------------------------
Floormount analog VCO synthesizer, dual 'hexa' VCO's (two voices per
string, harmonically locked, variable harmony), VCF with variable length
sweep up and down, LFO. Enable/Disable switches for each string, string
sensitivity switch (compression), built-in footswitches control VCO
single/dual mode, VCO harmonize pitch (1 of 2), VCF on/bypass/invert.
Output: mix/synth/guitar, pedal VCF, sweep control jacks.
G-202 Guitar Synth Controller
--------------------------------
Solid-body, "Stratocaster-style" bolt-on solid maple neck, dual neck/bridge
humbucking pickups, built-in hex pickup, onboard synth controller
electronics, controls: guitar volume, tone, synthesizer VCF cutoff,
guitar/synth mix, VCF resonance (feedback) and LFO depth (synth vibrato).
Fully adjustable bridge, was available in bright enamel finishes.
(Data source: Roland Users Group Magazine)
G-303 Guitar Synth Controller
--------------------------------
"Gibson SG style" solid-body, thru-body neck, dual neck/bridge humbucking
pickups with 3-position pickup selector, built-in hexaphonic pickup,
onboard synth controller electronics, controls: guitar volume, tone,
synthesizer VCF cutoff, guitar/synth mix, VCF resonance (feedback) and LFO
depth (synth vibrato). Fully adjustable bridge.
Manufactured for Roland Corporation by BC Rich, this is the one you saw
Andy Summers of the Police play on "Don't Stand So Close to Me" and David
Byrne of the Talking Heads on "Stop Making Sense".
(Data source: Roland Users Group Magazine, owner-submitted information)
G-505 Guitar Synth Controller
--------------------------------
"Stratocaster-style": Solid-body, bolt-on solid maple neck, three low-hum
single coil pickups, 5-position pickup selector, built-in hex pickup,
onboard synth controller electronics, controls: guitar volume, tone,
synthesizer VCF cutoff, guitar/synth mix, VCF resonance (feedback) and
LFO depth (synth vibrato). Fully adjustable bridge with tremolo arm and
brass sustain block, was available in metallic finishes.
G-707 Guitar Synth Controller
--------------------------------
This is the futuristic-looking controller that Roland made with the neck
"stabilizer bar", overall style reminiscent of a Gibson "Flying Vee".
Dual humbucking pickups, onboard synth electronics to control a GR-700.
GK-1 Hexaphonic Pickup
--------------------------
Hex Pickup for GR-700, GM-70, and possibly others. The unit is NOT compatible
with the GK-2 (But I've been told that there IS a conversion unit!)
GK-2 Hexaphonic Pickup
--------------------------
Hex Pickup for GR-50, and possibly others.
GK-1 Hexaphonic Pickup
--------------------------
Hex Pickup for GR-1, GR-09, and possibly others.
Owner comment:
"... The GK-1 won't plug directly into a GR series guitar synth module
(GR-50, GR-1 and GR-09). You can get an adaptor unit that will let you use
a GK-1 with a GR module. The GK-1 was released with the GM-70 pitch-to-MIDI
module, but was superceded by the GK-2 when the GR-50 was released."
(From: Gareth.Bull@cc.monash.edu.au)
GR-700 MIDI (out only) Digital Synth Unit
--------------------------------------------
-Guitar synth version of (same engine as) the JX3P synthesizer.
-64 internal patches and an addition 64 available with MC-16 Cartridge.
-Can be used either with the GK-1 pickup unit or seperate guitar
controller (707 something or other)(req. GR-300/700 series controller)
-Uses PG-200 programmer, but all parameters accessible and modifiable
via some pots on the GK-1. Don't know about other controllers.
-Onboard pedals are numbered 1 through 8 for patch selection and
parameter modification, and three other pedals, for selecting bank,
edit mode, and a hold pedal.
-Built in Chorus
-MIDI: OUT only, and only transmits note off and on, and patch change.
A couple of other companies DO make MIDI IN mods, as well as a mod
that allows it to be controlled from a GK-2.
-Audio outputs: (no data)
GR-50 Guitar Synth (uses GK-2 Hex Pickup Unit)
------------------
GK-2 pickup, rackmount synthesizer, 128 sounds, MIDI in/out, tuner,
many features for blending synth and guitar sounds.
-L/A Synthesis. Same engine as found in the Roland D-10.
-Patches can be arranges in a patch chain, with 5 or 6 (I forget)
patch chains available... this allows the player to organize patches
that are stored randomly in the patch banks in order, and the player
can quickly go up and down the patches while playing, all controllable
from the GK-2.
-Accepts memory cards, but I have been told that "strange things"
might happen if I try to load a D-10 card into my GR-50. Nothing
damaging, but things might be laid out differently between the two
even though they share the same engine.
GM-70 GR-MIDI Converter (uses GK-1 Hex Pickup Unit)
------------------------
GR-MIDI Converter. 1u Rack Mount Interface box for guitar/MIDI control
via the GK-1 pickup, one of the Roland GR series guitars, or the Steinberger
Controller. EXTENSIVE MIDI control. Each string can have six simultaneous
outputs with different characteristics (pitch/channel/etc.). NO INTERNAL
SOUNDS -- REQUIRES AN ADDITIONAL BOX (Sound Module).
User comment:
"Very versatile. Has the inherent MIDI delay in triggering. (All the new ones
only get around it by using direct control of their internal sounds instead
of MIDI.... the use of their MIDI outs will shortly confirm that! )"
"The GM-70 is a guitar-to-MIDI converter. It takes the signal from the GK-1
pickup (mountable on just about any steel-string guitar) and converts it to
MIDI output. The GM-70 does NOT have any sound generation capability; you
must route the MIDI output to your own sound module. It has two operating
modes--poly (all six strings go to one MIDI channel) and mono (each string
has its own channel). Since it uses pitch-to-MIDI technology it has a short
tracking delay, more noticeable on the lower strings. MIDI Guitarist magazine
(Summer 1991) gave it a B+ in timing, the best grade of the 11 pitch-to-MIDI
devices they compared. My only complaint is that it has the worst manual I've
ever seen, which is really amazing considering how bad Roland manuals are in
general." (From: SteveG1119@aol.com)
GR-09 MIDI Digital Synth Unit (uses GK-2/GK-2a Hex Pickup Unit)
---------------------------------
GK-2a pickup, floormount synthesizer, 180 sounds, 128 programmable patches,
expandable to 360 sounds, MIDI in/out, tuner, external effects loop, stereo
headphone and line output, sweep, hold, bank and program change pedals,
many features for blending synth and guitar sounds.
GR-1 MIDI Digital Synth Unit plus 4-Track Sequencer (expanded GR-09)
--------------------------------------------------------
GK-2a pickup, floormount synthesizer, 180 sounds, 128 programmable patches,
expandable to 360 sounds, MIDI in/out, tuner, external effects loop, stereo
headphone and line output, sweep, hold, bank and program change pedals,
many features for blending synth and guitar sounds.
ROLAND JC-120 Guitar Amplifier
------------------------------
120 watts, 2 12" speakers, reverb, famous Roland stereo chorus,
distortion, great clean sounding amp, dust cover.
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3. KEYBOARDS, KEYED CONTROLLERS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keyboard and Rack-mount Synthesizers, MIDI keyboard controllers,
modular synth units, and programming modules.
- Polyphonic Synthesizers
- Monophonic Synthesizers
- Sequencer/Programming Units, MIDI controllers
Polyphonic Synthesizers
=======================
D-5 Multi Timbral Linear Synthesizer
-------------------------------------------
The D-5 is a member of the D-10/20/110 family. It can share ROM cards,
patches, and tones with these other models (although it's missing a few tone
parameters). It lacks the built-in effects of the other units, but has four
performance mode features that the others don't have: Chord Play, Harmony,
Chase, and Arpeggio.
-Keyboard: 61 keys, velocity sensitive, pitch bend/modulation controller
-Sound Source: LA Synthesis, 32 maximum voices
-Internal Memory: Synthesizer Section (128 Patches, 128 Timbres,
128 Preset Tones, 64 Programmable Tones), Rhythm Section
(63 Preset Rhythm Tones)
-Ports: 1/4" Left and Right Outs, Headphone jack, sustain pedal,
Midi IN/OUT/THRU, Memory card
-Display: 2 lines, 16 letter (backlit)
-Weight: 15 pounds
Owner comments:
"-can be made compatible with MT32 patch numbers, but has newer samples
-works well as a MIDI controller for other modules, soundcards, etc."
"We own one and it is NOT compatible with MT-32 sysex messages. We
have a converter that can convert the timbre banks to D series format
though. Also, the D-5 timbre map is different from the MT-32, although
the sounds can be rearranged to look like an MT-32. I wrote such a timbre
bank, it is on the CI$ midiforum. This is no decendant of the MT-32, it
was the last and cheapest of the D series aynths. For instance the MT-32
only has 128 PCM sounds, the D-5 has 256. The MT-32 has a reverb
processor, the D-5 has no effects at all. The MT-32 is very noisy (we
own one as well), the D-5 is very quiet. You could call them first
cousins though ." (From: Gary Fisher)
D-10 Multi Timbral Linear Synthesizer
-------------------------------------------
-Keyboard: 61 keys, velocity sensitive, pitch bend/modulation controller
-Multi-timbral: 8 parts plus a drum part.
-Sound Source: 16 bit samples and PCM, 32 note polyphony.
-Synthesis engine: L/A synthesis (linear arithmetic)
-Internal Memory: Synthesizer Section (128 Patches, 128 Timbres,
128 Preset Tones, 64 Programmable Tones)
-Ports: 1/4" Left and Right Outs, Headphone jack, sustain pedal,
Midi IN/OUT/THRU, Start/Stop pedeal for drum machine, Memory card
-Display: 2 lines, 16 letter (backlit)
-Drum Sounds: 16 bit sampled drums sounds (excellent), pattern programming
available, 64 drum pattern, 32 presets and 32 programmable. 1/4 thru
8/4 time.
-Metronome: Built in metronome, tempo adjustable, as well as loudness in
comparison to the synth output.
-Effects: Adjustable Pan, Volumne, and Reverbs (which include halls, plates,
and Delays.
User comment:
"You have 13 structures (sorta like the algorithms in DX synths)
you can use samples or a synth wave (square,triangle only (?)) or both
in any combination with/without a ring modulator (sorta like modulation
carriers in DX synths) 128 x 2 internal PCM samples. believe it or
not, some(most) of the samples are the same samples in the D50. There
is a company called Real World (?) based in australia that upgrades the
D5/D10/D20/D110/MT32 with more reverb programs, extra outputs,
better S/N ratio. They have a representative in the US. Call Keyboard
magazine for their number."
D-50 Keyboard Digital
----
(no data)
D-70 Keyboard Multi Timbral Linear-Arithmetic Synthesizer
----
The D-70 is a 76 key, 4 slider, MIDI-controller keyboard with 128 tones that
map into 128 patches.
User comment:
"In addition to L/A synthesis,it also has an unusual synthesis method called
DLM (direct linear modulation, I believe) that generates a range of sounds by
using a series of chopped wave forms. The frequency of the series can be set
so that the frequency itself interacting with (the wave I think) generates a
pitch. The DLM process seems fairly unpredictable and not terribly control-
lable, but has found industrial applications. The sound is somewhat raspy
when used in this mode.
Otherwise, the D-70 tones provide PCM sourced filter and amplitude
ADSR enveloping. The time variant amplitude (TVA) and time variant
filter (TVF) curves are displayed simultaneously as either is edited
within a tone. The D-70 comes with a reasonably good piano sound, some
unusual Vox patches ("ghost vox").
The sliders and LCD back-lit display provide a highly readable
way of controlling MIDI channels, even in low light. The D-70 transmits
all 16 midi channels and can receive (play) 5 voices plus the drum kit
at the same time. The 5 voices can be played on any midi channel - 5
separate channels, all on the same channel, etc. The drum kit receives
only on channel 10.
All 76 keys of the drum kit can be programmed individually with
pan, cut-off, resonance and TVF/TVA. D-110 compatible cards can be
used as PCM sources." (From: RICKATZ@delphi.com)
D-110 Digital Rackmount
-----
The D110 is a 19'' digital synthesizer module with 32 voices.
It works with the same technology as the D50 having only 4 partials per tone.
It has MIDI Multi mode and can generate 8 different sounds at the same time.
One drum set is featured, too.
There are 8 single outputs.
A small effect section is included, some types of reverb and echo.
The sounds are very similar to the MT-32.
User comment:
"I'm using it mainly for sequencing purposes in a multitracking environment
and it works well."
"... I'm not really familiar with the D10 but I do have a D110. There's no
drum sequencing or any sequencing - it's just a sound module. There are 8
"parts" (instruments) plus the rhythm section, which allows you to spread
the 64 built-in rhythm sounds plus the 64 sounds in the "internal" (user
storable) bank across the keyboard...It's still quite useful. A bit noisy,
though." (From: mgm@xmission.com (michael moncur))
HP-1000s Digital Piano
----------------------
Keyboard 88 Keys
Max. No. Voices 32 voice polyphonic
Preset Voices Pianos 1, 2, Harpsichord, Vibraphone, Electric Piano
Effects Chorus 1 ON/OFF, Chorus 2 ON/OFF
Connectors Input & Output jacks (mono/stereo), MIDI IN/OUT/THRU
Switches Power, Local ON/OFF
Speakers 16cm * 2
Output 20w * 2
Finish Roland Original Oak
Dimensions (W*D*H) 55-13/16" * 18-11/16" * 6-1/16"
Weight 81lb 11oz
Consumption 117vac: 60w 220/240vac: 100w
Accessories Power cord, music rest
Options Stand, Kbd cover
The HP-1000sl is identical save for an additional 5lb weight, and comes
standard with a kbd cover. I took all that directly from the spec. section
in the back of the owners guide. Here follows some more tidbits.....
Controls Volume, Brilliance, Tuning adj., Damper,
Soft/Sostenuto Pedals
Key Transpose Range can be transposed up a perfect 4th, and down
a diminished 5th.
Midi Modes
i) Note On/Off, Pedal and Program Change messages are transmitted and
received.
ii) Note On/Off, Pedal and Program Change messages are transmitted.
Program Change messages are not received.
iii) Note On/Off, Pedal and Program Change messages are transmitted and
received. The moment a new voice is selected on the piano, the
corresponding Program Change number is transmitted. The Chorus
On/Off is also transmitted. (Ideal for recording to a sequencer)
iv) Performance information (messages) sent from an external Midi
device (e.g. sequencer) can play more than one voice of the piano
(Multi-Timbral). Up to five voices may be played at the same time.
Receives on channels 1, 11, 12, 13, and 14.
Juno-6 Digital/Analog hybrid, Non-MIDI
------
- 6 voice polyphonic, digital controlled oscillators (DCO)
- DCO's feature simultaneous variable pulse, sawtooth, square waveforms
- selectable Manual, Envelope or Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
- variable LFO modulation, rate and delay and PWM modulation
- noise generator, trigger mode selector
- VCF section: hipass , lowpass filters w/ cutoff freq & resonance control
- Envelope modulation slider/inversion switch
- VCA can be modulated by the Envelope or can follow square envelope.
- 4-part ADSR envelope generator
- two-mode chorus section: chorus, vibrato, or stereo panning effects
- Bend range sliders for DCO and VCF, return-to-center pitch bend control
- Back panel: Main out (stereo/mono), level switch, headphone, VCF pedal,
sustain pedal, arpeggio clock control, master tuning
Juno-60 Analog/Digital hybrid synth., non-MIDI
-------
* great 5 octave keyboard. thick warm analog sounds. great for techno
* Roland Juno 60 (with MD-8 MIDI interface.)(?)
6 voice analog/digital hybrid synth. A real classic. The best
sounding Juno ever made.
Juno-106 MIDI
--------
(no data)
Alpha-Juno-1 Analog/Digital hybrid synth.
------------
6-note polyphonic, w/MIDI
Alpha-Juno-2 Analog/Digital hybrid synth.
------------
w/MIDI, 6-note polyphonic, velocity sensitive w/ aftertouch.
Jupiter-6 Analog
---------
Analog synthesizer very much like its great brother, the Jupiter 8.
The differences are: only 6 voices instead of 8 and MIDI (only IN
and OUT, only OMNI Mode).
It has very GREAT analog synthesizer sounds!
The keyboard can be split in two parts, playing different sounds.
An optional upgrade MIDI chip, can give it the ability to send the
upper keyboard sound on channel 1, the other on channel 2.
Unfortunately there is small storage space:
64 different sounds can be saved in memory, 32 patches are available.
Jupiter-8 Analog
---------
The Jupiter-8's impressive sounds are created by its eight two oscillator
synthesizer systems. These synthesizers are controlled by single bank of
controls that feature a logical left to right flow and mix sliders with
rotary controls to provide the most readily available information and
control. Highlights of each JP-8 synthesizers voice include:
Two separate VCO's providing four waveform options, each including precise
sine, triangle, sawtooth, square, variable pulse, and noise waveforms.
All sixteen oscillators are easily tuned in approximately three seconds
and feature high stability to remain in tune even during long sessions under
difficult conditions. A wide variety of modulation options include syncing
and cross modulation between VCOs for control over an exceptionally wide
variety of sound and tone color.
Output of the VCOs passes through an infinitely variable source mixer and
then on the the Filter sections. A separate Hi Pass Filter can be combined
with a voltage controlled Low Pass Filter that is selectable between a rich
-24dB/octave or a more acoustic -12 dB/octabe cutoff slope. These choices
combine with a wide variety of control options that give musicians maximum
creative control over the tone color of their sound.
Two complete four stage ADSR Envelope Generators feature slider controls
for accurate visual information and control during programming and editing.
Each envelope includes and exclusive Key Follow option allowing the Attack,
Decay, and Release length to be shortened in proportion to the height of
any pitch as they naturally do on many acoustic instruments including the
piano. Envelope-1 also includes a switch for inverting its effect before
being sent to the sections. The VCA may be both Envelope and LFO controlled
and terminates on the JP-8 back panel in a stereo Headphone output, two
balanced outputs. and three unbalanced outputs suitable for a wide variety
of situations.
The Jupiter-8's powerful programmer has the capacity to store and recall
the exact synthesizer settings for up to sixty-four different patch programs.
Patches may be stored virtually permanently using the JP-8's lithium battery
back-up system. Writing into any patch position from the Manual control or
another patch position requires only pressing two switches and the patch
number desired. Patch selection simply requires punching in the actual two
digit number needed which is then displayed in a large LED display window.
JX-3P Analog/Digital hybrid
------
Digital Oscillators & Analog filtering. Simple, but well thought out.
Analog style programmer (PG-200) also available.
Six voice/Two Oscillator/1 Envelope generator/VCA-VCF/Chorus
128 step non-MIDI programmer/non-velocity kybd (there is also an upgrade
that makes the system velocity sensitive from an external controller. The
internal kydb is inactive when this is switched on).
JX-8P Analog/Digital hybrid
------
Digital oscillators with analog filtering
This was a basic upgrade of the above described JX-3P...
Same basic design with velocity kybd/2nd envelope generator...
I don't have more details...
JX-10 Hybrid Digital/Analog
------
76 Key Analog Synthesizer, bi-timbral, programmable, good MIDI
controller. Very diverse analog sounding unit. The JX is a hybrid
synth: digital waveforms with analog filters.
Roland JD & JV Series
---------------------
JD-800: Digital synthesizer with tons of front panel sliders (like the
old analog ones). Very clean, clear, and sparkly (sounds like
intro to the new Star Trek series, although I don't know whether
they used a JD-800 or not). I wasn't very impressed with its
acoustic instrument simulations, but that's not really what
it's for.
JV-30: Digital sample-playback keyboard (a Sound Canvas with a keyboard,
pretty much) with some programmable parameters (including filters,
which is what the U-20 lacked). Non-expandable (no RAM or ROM
cards). Nice acoustic instrument simulations.
JV-80: Digital synthesizer and sample-playback synth. Better programming
interface than the U-20's (wish they'd thought of it before
they made the U-20). Very crisp, clean, sparkly, lots of high-
end (some would say, too much). I wasn't impressed with the
onboard acoustic piano samples (too metallic), but there are
8 megabyte expansion boards with lots of sounds (categories: pop,
orchestral, piano, and I forget the other one. The orchestral
expansion board is wonderful). The keyboard is very responsive
and very nice to play (velocity- and aftertouch-sensitive -- I forget
whether it's channel aftertouch or polyphonic aftertouch).
The JV-30 is velocity-sensitive, but not aftertouch-sensitive,
by the way. The JV-30 and JV-80 are really different animals;
I don't know why they are both called JV-keyboards.
JD-990: A rack-mount super-upgrade of the JD-800, and I hear that it
sounds even cleaner, crisper, and sparklier than the JD-800
according to a review in Electronic Musician (I think). Here's
where the distinction between the JD's and the JV's starts to get
fuzzy. The JD-990 can also recognize the JV's 8 meg expansion
boards, although I'm not sure whether their patch parameters are
identical (I tend to think not).
JV-90: A 76-key version of the JV-80. I don't know whether there are
other differences, though.
JV-35: An upgrade of the JV-30, which is expandable via ROM or RAM cards
I think. Maybe a few other features as well.
JV-1000: The super JV flagship keyboard. I think this one has 76 notes,
plus a sequencer onboard (the equivalent of an MC-50, I
think), and the capability to add on a Sound Canvas expansion
board for more sounds and polyphony. But here's the catch:
The extra polyphony applies only to the Sound Canvas sounds, not
to the other internal sounds. I hear that it's a
good-sounding keyboard, but that it's control section, sound
section, and sequencing section aren't seamlessly integrated,
so there's a bit of a learning curve involved.
A more accurate description of the JV-90 is that it's a JV-1000 minus
the sequencer. The big difference between the JV-80 and the JV-90 is
that the JV-90 is expandable, like the JV-1000 (you can plug in a GS
expansion board to give you more polyphony and parts). Both the JV-90 and
JV-1000 support General MIDI as manufactured.
The default patches on the JV-90 are different than the JV-80, but the
JV-90 waveforms are a superset of the JV-80. There are also 128 JV-80
compatible patches on the JV-90, this is in addition to the 256 preset
patches available (this is not mentioned in the brochure), even though
there are some overlap of patch names. The JV-90 also have 4 preset
drum sets, versus the 1(?) on the JV-80.
The prices for JV-80 and JV-90 are about the same, so the JV-90 is
clearly the better buy, unless you need a JV-80 for compatibility
reasons.
Expansion boards
----------------
Roland SR-JV80-02 Orchestral Expansion Board
Will slot very neatly into JV80, JV1000, JV880.
JV-80/JV-90/JV-1000/JD-990 is a vintage keyboards expansion board (so,
they are pop, orchestral, piano, and vintage).
JV-880 analog synth expansion board.
------------------------------------
internal expansion board that has analog samples,
classic analog synth sounds.
MKS-50 Rackmount
------
Alpha Juno series synthesizer in rackmount unit
Roland Rhodes Model 760
------------------------
76-key synth. 30 note polyphony, 6 part multi-timbral.
Many internal sounds and combinations.
Accepts U220 cards.
S-10 Digital Sampling Keyboard (MIDI)
------------------------------
The Roland S-10 is a 12-bit sampler with a 30 KHz sampling rate (max).
It's got 128 Kb's of RAM (I think). You can sample up to 4.4 seconds at this
rate. You can also choose a 15 KHz sampling rate (up to 8.8 sec's). It can
only hold 4 different samples at a time (1.1 secs each at 30 KHz).
These samples are organized in banks A, B, C and D. When you sample you
choose either one of these banks or one of the following combinations:
AB, CD (max. 2.2 sec's) or ABCD (max. 4.4 sec's).
Splits: A/B, C/D, AB/CD or A/B/C/D.
Layers: Banks at the same "stage". For example: B+D or AB+CD. Not A+AB.
These bank combinations can also be mixed or switched via adjustable
velocity.
The keyboard has only got 4 octaves, but is VERY playable compared to the
keyboards on most modern synths. You see, under each key there is a piece of
metal (is this what is called semi-weighted?).
The S-10 has got 8 voice polyphony which is cut down to 4 voices when
layering or velo-switching and velo-mixing. You can detune two banks to get
a "flanger-like" effect (4-voice polyphony). There is also a simple but
useful delay option (4-voice...).
Arpeggiator: (up,down, up&down or random, rate, # of note repeat).
Trigger function: Audio in triggers a specified note, chord or notes via
arpeggiator. The trigger sensitivity is adjusted with the record
level fader.
Autobend: Depth, speed. A kind of portamento (?) but bends only upwards (both
chords
and single notes).
It's got both manual and automatic looping functions. (Not crossfade-looping,
I think). The manual looping function is very user-friendly as you can let the
sample be sustained while you are editing it to find the best/most glitchless
looping point. There are some high-pass and low-pass filters that can change
the sounds quite dramatically but they are not so flexible - sort of static.
When performing I use my S-10 for effects and special "fill-in" sounds and
as a master for my Roland D-110 and E-mu Proformance.
The dummest thing about the S-10 is that it uses 2,8"(!!!) disks
("quickdisks"). These are hard to get, expensive and even though you can save
sounds on both sides you can ONLY save one bank per side. So, to save a 4.4
sec 30 KHz sample you will need two of these disks.
(From: mo@kreftreg.no (Mads Olsen))
Monophonic Synthesizers
=======================
MC-202 Analog, Non-MIDI, monophonic
------
Can sync up to drum machines such as TR-707,-727, and -909.
Owner comments:
"The MC stands for microcomposer and that is just what this little angel does.
Except, I never use it that way (too much of a hassle.) I call it my little
angel because this thing produces the deepest, roundest bass that i have ever
seen. I love it to death.. can't wait to MIDI it! anyway, this machine has
basically the same circuitry again as the sh-101 and sh-01 synth, minus the
ability to go to different waveforms. I think it is stuck with a square wave,
maybe, maybe a sawtooth. it doesn't do as much as the 101 does but I think it
makes up for its bass sounds. I think of it as my bass machine."
"...the PG-series do not have ANY features that allow DIN-sync to MIDI
clock! The PG-series consisted of the PG-200 (JX3p, MKS30 Planet S), PG-300
(Alpha Juno 1 &2, MKS50), PG800 (JX8p, JX10, MKS-70 Super JX) and PG1000
(D50, D550). You could also consider the MPG-80 (MKS-80 Super Jupiter) as
part of the PG-series if you wish. But, they don't provide DIN-sync to MIDI
clock..." (From: George Kotsopoulos)
"...available waveforms on the MC202 and SH101 (since they share the exact
same sound circuitry).
The MC202 can produce Pulse Width Modulated waveforms (when Modulation is set
to 50%, you get a square wave), Sawtooth and a sub-oscillator which is a
Square wave with adjustable octave switch. The progammability differences
between the SH101 and MC202 is that the MC202 only has a TRIANGLE wave for
its LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator) modulation. The SH101 has TRIANGLE,
SQUARE, RANDOM and WHITE NOISE." (From: George Kotsopoulos)
SH-0x Series
------------
The SH-0x series were the line of keyboards that Roland first sold. They came
out in the late 70's and they were basic synths. They were usually half size
(two octaves) and they had knobs and some switches, monophonic, and of course
not multitimbral. This is the closest thing to the Moogs that were coming out
at the time (except more condensed and not made of wood.) What I hear is that
the circuitry for a SH-09 is similar to that of the 808. These synths usually
have a control voltage/gate input from any external synth or sequencer of
sorts. The "SH" stands for synth, if you were wondering.
The SH-01 is closest to the SH-101 except there is no pitch lever (I think)
and it has the ability to generate pink and white noise, which very few
synths have now. It has a VCO (voltage controlled oscillator), a VCF (voltage
controlled filter), and a VCA (voltage controlled amplifier), as well as I
think an envelope follower.
This is a small synthesizer and it can be used to generate the classic
"LOW BASS" sounds as well as a lot of percolating random noises. some people
like to make pads and simulations of string synths with it by setting the
attack a little slower and turning the frequency cutoff down a bit.
Other synths in this category are the SH-05, SH-07, and SH-09.
SH-101 Analog, Non-MIDI, monophonic
------
This two octave digital/analog hybrid synth is pretty popular. It features
everything that the SH-01 did except it is not switchable from white to pink
noise. it has a pitch/modulation lever that can trigger the LFO to modulate
the sound as well as an external modulation grip. This grip is just a small
wheel on a grip that just does the modulation and nothing else. You can
attach a strap to this and the other side to wear the 101 like a guitar.
It came in several colors of grey, blue, red, and purple.
When I say it is a digital/analog hybrid, I am refering to the fact that the
clock in it is run digitally. The difference between running a digital clock
versus analog is that the analog waveform's oscillation peak points are what
triggers it. This is not the most dependable way of timing as interferences
and all kinds of fun stuff can cause it to fluctuate. The digital clock on
it should make it more dependable.
This has CV/gate in and out 1/8th jacks. Also, there is a modification that
you can add to allow a line input before the VCF and you can shape your line
input with the 101's controls (frequency cutoff, resonance, modulation, etc.)
There is a small battery inside the 101 that stores your 99 note sequence.
There is a hold function which holds the note that was last played, also an
arpeggiator that can can go up or down or both (like Philip Glass type
stuff.) The waveforms can be from a sawtooth, a square, a noise, or a random
wave. Like the SH-01, the wavelength distances can range from 16-2 feet
(very low frequencies to very high frequencies.) There is a noise generator
that just adds noise to whatever you are playing.
TB-303 Analog, monophonic Bass line synthesizer (Non-MIDI)
------
The TB-303 can easily sync to other ProForm products or many other products
to play the composition. Can sync up to drum machines such as TR-707,-727,
and -909.
Specs:
- Programmable in real time or in step mode using input buttons
- ProForm standard includes the TR-606 drum synthesizer/sequencer.
Comment:
"The only available way of entering notes is via step-time entry. It's a
peculiar way too. First, you enter the pitches that you want and then
secondly, you enter the rests and any other accents or slides you want.
Sorry, no real-time entry on this! (Page 9 through 17 deals with programming
bass sequences in to the TB-303.)" - From: George Kotsopoulos
"I assume that the TB stands for something like, "the bassline" or "tone
bass." Whatever the case, this is also called the acid machine...it was used
in the later 80's house music (Phuture, Adonis, Derrick May) and this is what
the drug acid would have sounded like. This, along with the 808, 909, and 106
is probably one of the most famous machines that Roland ever made.
---
The heart of the 303 is the square/sawtooth wave. It has 6 knobs at the top
of the machine to control this wave (tuning, frequency cutoff, attack,
resonance, decay, and accent.) The wave is switchable from square to sawtooth
wave. There are no lfo's or noise filters or anything.
---
I think actually all of these machines are run by DCO's but anyway, this is
the "computer controlled" sequencer of the machine. You can store 64
patterns, which are split into 4 groups and then each group has 8 patterns
each on A and B. You can also tie 4 patterns together to make a song. You
must program the pattern in (again!) step time (ugh!) with rests (no sound),
staccato (moving at the tempo of the click), and legato (extending through
several clicks.)"
Sequencer / Programming Units and MIDI Controllers
==================================================
MKB-300 MIDI Keyboard Controller
--------------------------------
-76 full size velocity sensitive and weighted action keys (firmer than
regular synth. and softer than acoustic piano).
-Slider for key transpose.
-Joystick for pitch bender, modulation.
-Sliders for modulation rise time and depth.
-Connectors for soft pedals (2) and damper pedals (2). Soft
pedals can be use to increase or decrease patch number.
-Connectors for MIDI IN (1), OUT (4) and THROUGH (1).
-Connector for modulation pedal (1).
-Displays and buttons to select MIDI channels (all 16 channels) in
multiple modes (split, dual, whole lower, whole upper,
monophonic and polyphonic).
-Buttons (24) to save and transmit up to 128 program change MIDI
messages. These programmed MIDI messages are saved in battery
backed (non-volatile) memory.
-MIDI channel split point can be disable or set AT ANY of the 72 keys.
Each of the saved 128 programs can have different split points.
-Note that the MKB-300 is a MIDI controller without sound module.
(From: nhan@bnr.ca (Gia Nhan))
MPG-80 (programmer for MKS-80 Super Jupiter)
--------------------------------------------
(see also PG Series)
(no data)
MSQ-100 MIDI sync/sequencer box
-------
(no data)
MSQ-700 MIDI/DCB Multi-track Digital Keyboard Recorder
-------
The MSQ can memorize all MIDI informatino and has 8 memory tracks.
Up to 6,500 notes can be stroed in all tracks. The MSQ-700 has several
convenient functions; a chain function, multitrack function, overdub
function, and merge function. Numerous data, such as remaining memory
capacity, tempo, or measure number, can be digitally diplayed. And the
MIDI allows the MSQ-700 to be connected with the TR-909 and to control
the TR-909 with the MSQ-700's data.
Specs:
- 8 tracks, programmable in real or step time, to 1/32 resolution
- Beat: Free, 1 ~ 6, 8, Tempo: 35 ~ 260
- Max memory capacity 6,5000 notes in all 8 tracks
- Modes: Chain, Normal and Tape.
- Clock: Internal, Tape, Sync, MIDI
- Display: Measure, Chain, Avail., Note, Tempo, Status
- Metronome switch: off, load/play, on
- Rear Panel: EXT Control(Start/Stop, Punch in), Sync In/Out (5p DIN),
Tape Sync(Load/IN, Save/Out), Memory Protect On/Off Switch
- Dimensions: 346mm x 108mm x 328 mm (WxHxD), 5 kG
13.6" x 4.25" x 12.9" , 11 lbs.
PG Series Synthesizer Programmers (see also MPG Series)
-------------------------------------------------------
Comments:
From: George Kotsopoulos
"The only PG-series programmers which do not have MIDI jacks are the PG-200
(which is used with the MKS-30 Planet 'S' module or the JX3p keyboard) and
the MPG-80 (which is used with the MKS-80 Super Jupiter module) which use a
special 6-pin DIN connector. Every other programmer (the PG-300, PG-800, PG-
1000 ect.) have MIDI jacks to interface to the keyboards/modules they are
capable of editing.
The PG-series are programmers. If [deleted] thinks that programming
and triggering are the same thing, then that is incorrect."
PG-100 programmer box
---------------------
(no data)
PG-200 (programmer box for JX-3P, MKS-30 Planet S)
--------------------------------------------------
(no data)
PG-300 (programmer box for Alpha Juno 1 & 2, MKS-50)
--------------------------------------------------
allows tactile programming with about 3 dozen sliders over MIDI
of the parameters in the A-Juno-2 and others in the Alpha Juno line.
PG-800 (programmer for JX-8P, JX-10, MKS-70 Super JX)
--------------------------------------------------
(no data)
PG-1000 (programmer for D-50, D-550)
------------------------------------
(no data)
System 100 Sequencer Module 104
-------------------------------
Description: 12 stage, dual channel analogue voltage sequencer.
Connections/Controls:
Gate Outputs (2)
Series Outputs (2)
Parallel (CV Sequencer) outputs (2 per channel)
Ext CV Input [Clock Rate]
Gate Time, Clock Time controls
Range switch [x1/x10]
Step Number [1-12] [How many steps in sequence]
Channel A/Channel B [Which channel are we talking about]
One Time/Repeat [Play sequence once/continuously]
Ext Trigger Input [Start]
Ext Trigger Input [Continue]
End Pulse Output [Stop]
Ext Trigger Input [Step]
Note - All jacks are 3.5mm mini.
Owner comments:
"Output control voltage ranges are variable across 2.5V, 5V, 10V - I'd be
extremely reluctant to use the 10V range, especially on a low-voltage
device like the MC202, SH101 etc. Maybe they have the precautions necessary
to deal with the trauma, but I wouldn't risk it.
This hefty looking box is just the trick for those analogue jams - loads of
flashing LEDs, 27 dials, switches etc!
Using the beast is a doddle - just dial up the various values for each stage
of the sequence, and connect up one of the "parallel outputs" to a CV-in
on your favourite noise box [ie VCF Cutoff etc] and start creating complex,
syncopated rhythms, especially if you have the thing being clocked
externally.
Something interesting to keep in mind with this things is the fact that its
own internal clock is a VCO! So you can have it sequencing away, but slowing
down and speeding up to another external voltage. Great huh?
It's curious that there are 12 stages to the sequencer, as opposed to 8 or
16, but I'm not complaining. It wouldn't be too hard to bodge up something
that does what this box does, but it sure wouldn't look half as cool! :)"
(From: Andrew W Gamlen )
A-30 Master Controller Keyboard (verify?)
-------------------------------
A-50 Master Controller Keyboard (verify?)
-------------------------------
76 keys un-weighted
-64 patches, which can linked 32 patches together,with card slot.
-Can send all kind of midi program change including aftertouch
and velo. , and all programmable.
-Split/stack its up to 4 zone .
-Program can be change via sliders.
-2 Midi in, 1 Midi thru, 4 Midi out, and four foot controller inputs.
-Large LCD screen display.
PC-100 MIDI Keyboard Controller
-------------------------------
3-octave midi controller
PC-200MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller
-----------------------------------
- 49 full-size velocity sensitive keys
- compact, desktop design, standard MIDI connections
- octave shift provides 6 octave range
- bender/modulator lever for expressive control
- data entry slider for full MIDI capability
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. MODULES AND MIDI COMPUTER PERIPHERALS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
MIDI soundcards, peripherals, external synth modules and adapters.
CA-30 Intelligent Arranger
--------------------------
"Note that the CA-30 is a MIDI controller without sound module. Provides 32
music accom. styles (ex: RUMBA, ROCK, BALLAD, SLOW, etc.) in real-time, for
MIDI keyboards or MIDI modules. Each style has 4 variants. More music styles
can be added using Roland ROM cards (external, credit card size). Most home
entertainment synth. and electronic piano can only send and and receive MIDI
on one fixed channel. And they do not send all parts (drum, upper-split,
lower-split, accomp. and bass) of the performance. This unit, as a MIDI
controller, is fully configurable for 16 MIDI channels and sends all
instrument parts to the configured channels." (From: nhan@bnr.ca (Gia Nhan))
CM-32L External Module
----------------------
The CM32L was an MT32 in a plain external box (no LCD's or parameter
controls). Also has 30 F/X sounds. Meant to be used with a computer.
Similar to an SC-55 in quietness.
From: Adam Mirowski
(no specs)
CM-32P PCM Sound Module
-----------------------
-Multi Timbral Sound Module
-This PCM Sound Module similar to the Roland U-110 is built in the CM32P,
creating high quality 64 different sounds.
-Can produce a maximum of 31 voices (Partials)
-Built in digital Reverb creates realistic reverb effect
-Midi Hardwired Channels 11-16
- only half of the samples compared to the U-220
- no MIDI out
- no external controls beyond volume
-THOROUGH MANUAL
THIS UNIT READS THE ENTIRE SERIES OF ROLAND Sound Library SN-U110 Series.
This is the series of cards made for the Roland U110. You can buy the
complete collection of Roland U110 cards at American Musical Supply
(1-800-458-4076) for $19.95 each. <--These usually cost $59-$69.
The 64 internal sounds already on the CM-32P are all from the high quality
ROLAND sound library: 10 Pianos, 5 Guitars , 8 SLAP Bass , 2 Fingered Bass
, 2 Picked Bass, 1 Fretless Bass, 1 Acoustic Bass, 4 Choirs, 4Strings, 10
Organs, 4 Sax , 5 Brass , 8 Trumpet /Trombone (and a few more).
Owner comment:
This is a great little module....that will give you those lush ROLAND
sounds..and best of all...you can get all the cards to build quite a
collection of sounds from American Music Supply...again..it's PCM so you
will have as rich/quality a sound as the U110 and U220!
This is a great way to capture the sound of Roland!
CM-64
-----
The CM64 was an CM-32L plus a CM-32P in a single box.
(no specs)
CM-300
------
The CM300 was an SC55 in a plain (no LCD or buttons) external box.
CM-500
------
The CM500 is 2 synths in one box; equivalent to an SC55 and an CM-32L,
for "perfect games compatibility".
LAPC-1 Soundcard
----------------
Linear Arithmetic sound for the PC.
The LAPC was a CM-32L on a PC card, with enhanced sound effects and
additional user patch RAM. Introduced around 1988. Was sold by Sierra
On-line for use with their games, in additional to traditional Roland
dealers. Needs an external adapter box to turn it into a full MPU401 MIDI
interface (Roland MCB-01). Includes the CM-32L's F/X samples and as quiet.
(no specs)
MT-32 MIDI Sound Module
-----------------------
- Linear Arithmetic (L/A) synthesis, same technology as in the D-10 synth,
12-bit sampling and processing, half the samples of the D-10.
- Multi-timbral, 8 parts arranged in 8 Sound Groups plus a drum part.
- 32 voice polyphony plus 30 percussion samples
- 128 preset patches and 64 user programmable patches
- 128 PCM digital sound samples, plus digitally synth'd partials
- built-in reverb effects
The preset sounds are arranged in Sound Groups including several different
instruments and timbres from each group: Piano, Organ, Keyboard, Bass,
Syn-Bass, Synth 1 & 2, Strings, Wind, Brass, Syn-Brass, Mallet, Special
Instruments, Percussion and Effects. The power of the MT-32 really comes
through when you combine these voices together under sequencer control.
(Source: Roland Product Literature)
Owner comment:
"Lacks half of samples compared to D-10. The absence of
a piano sample is very annoying...!" (From: Adam Mirowski )
RAP-10/AT Roland Audio Producer Soundcard
-----------------------------------------
The RAP-10 provides General MIDI and WAV record and play. The MIDI
is based on the SC-7. MIDI ports are provided by an optional adapter
which connects to an expansion on port on the backplane of the card.
Roland makes an adapter called the MCB for this purpose.
Features:
- 16-channel, 26-voice 'Sound Canvas' General MIDI synthesizer
- 128 MIDI instrument sounds, 6 drum kits
- 16-bit, 44.1 kHz stereo sampling
- studio-quality digital reverb and chorus for both MIDI and digital audio
- Roland Audio Toolworks software for Microsoft Windows 3.1
- fully synchronized record/play of MIDI and WAV data
- 16 MIDI channel + 2 WAV channel mixing console
- waveform editing
- internal ISA bus card for PC, General MIDI interface
Specs:
Synthesizer:
Tones: 128 sounds (General MIDI System Level 1), 6 drum kits
Polyphony/Timbres: 26 voices/16parts, (1 for drums)
Digitized Audio Section:
Record: Linear 8 or 16 bit at 44.1/22.05/11.025 kHz
Playback: Linear 8 or 16 bit at variable rates
(+/- 1.5 ocatves from sample)
Polyphony: One stereo or two mono part(s)
Effects: Reverb/Delay and Chorus common to both sections
independent levels per part.
Inputs: Stereo
Mic/Line: adjustable from -50dBm to -10dBm; stereo mini-phone jack
Aux/CD: -10dBm; stereo mini-phone jack & internal connector
Output: Stereo
Line Level: -10dBm; stereo mini-phone jack
Mixer: Seperate levels for synthesized audio playback,
digitized audio playback,
AD/input (also Aux. in)
Interfaces:
Joystick/MIDI (Enhanced MPU-401 UART) connector;
DB-15F (optional MCB-10 connector box provides MIDI connections)
SCC-1 GS Sound Card
--------------------------
The SCC-1 is the CARD type of the SC-55 Sound Canvas module, it is an
8-bit card with onboard MPU-401 unit for processing MIDIs,
128 GS instruments, General MIDI and GS Compatible.
The SCC-1 is also MT32 compatible, but does not understand
MT32 Sysex messages. It has an MT-32 compatible program change map
(bank 128 issued on every channel/part).
Specs:
- 16-channel, 24 voice 'Sound Canvas' General MIDI synthesizer
- 317 MIDI instrument sounds, 9 drum kits, plus sound effects
- MPU 401 interface for DOS & Windows MIDI software
- studio quality reverb and chorus
Reverb: ROOM 1-3, Hall 1-2, Plate, Delay,Panning Delay
Chorus: Chorus 1-4,Feedback Chorus,Flanger,Short Delay,Short
Delay Feed back.
- General MIDI and Roland GS compatible
- Ports: Headphones, MIDI IN/OUT, RCA Left, RCA Right.
Owner comments:
"128 [instruments], but very sparsely populated. Sounds just have variations,
memorized on a per part basis, changed using the Bank Select MSB controller
(0) and often offering a richer sound through the usage of two partials
instead of one." (From: Adam Mirowski )
"Samples are stored in ROM, using 4MB , Uncompressed. (I wasnt able to verify
the 4MB size, if anyone can verify it with Roland Corp. it will be great.)"
SCC-1B GS Sound Card
---------------------
Basically the SCC-1 bundled with additional software.
This is a small comparison between the Roland SC-7 module
and the Roland SCC-1 card. You are encourged to use this template
when comparing other wavetabled cards.
Roland SC-7 Roland SCC-1
Parts: 16 16
Polyphony (MAX) 28 24
Tones: 128 317
6 Drum Sets 9 Drum Sets
Standard Standard
Electronic Electronic
Brush Brush
Power Power
TR808-set TR808-SET
Orchestra Orchestra
Jazz
Room
Sfx
CM64/32L
Effects Reverb/Delay Chorus Reverb/Delay
Chours
NOTE: Both SC-7 and SCC-1 are GM. The SCC-1 also conforms to GS.
Roland SC-7B is the upcoming daughterboard for the SB16
at the moment it is available as a external module.
SC-7(PC),SC-7(MAC) Sound Modules
--------------------------------
- connects to PC or MAC serial port or any MIDI interface
- 128 General MIDI instrument patches with 6 drum kits
- 28 voice polyphony, 16 parts
- studio quality reverb and chorus
- two-input mixer for MAC/PC audio, CD-ROM, etc.
- Ballade(r) and Band-in-a-Box(r) software and cables
- Ballade software mixer (MIDI)
- Band-in-a-Box software (PG Music, Inc.)
SC-7B
------
Basically the SC-7 on a PC card.
SC-55
------
The SC-55 is the Original Sound Canvas and is an External Module.
The SC-55 is a 16-part General MIDI/GS sound module with up to 24-note
polyphony. It has 317 sounds plus 9 drum sets plus a sound effects set. It
has a larger display and more front-panel controls than most Sound Canvas
models. It's mostly a sample playback unit, but some aspects of the samples
(such as filtering and the envelope) can be altered to produce new sounds.
There is no capability to add totally different sounds. The SC-55 also has
built-in reverb and chorus. It has a MT-32 compatibility mode (although the
sounds aren't exact and there are some limitations, such as that MT-32 sys ex
is not supported). It has an extra MIDI In jack on the front panel and has a
remote control that can handle some basic functions. It's rack-mountable
(taking half a rack space).
User comment:
"When Keyboard magazine did a blind test with many trained listeners a year
ago, they rated the SC7 and the SC55 (the original Sound Canvas) equal in
quality and better than the half dozen other General Midi boxes they tested,
including Korg, Kawai, and Yamaha TG100." (From: dcole@ua.d.umn.edu)
Super MPU/AT, MPU-IMC, MPU-IPC MIDI Interfaces
----------------------------------------------
- full MPU 401 compatibility
- MPU-IMC for IBM Microchannel, -IPC for PC ISA
- 'Super MPU/AT' adds:
dual ports (32 MIDI channels in and out), SMPTE read/write ports,
high resolution (960 ppqn), 16-bit MPU MIDI data processing
U-20 Expansion Card
----
2 voice cards (orchestral winds and special effects), sustain
pedal, and sysex/librarian.
U-220 Module
-----
Multi-timbral sample playback. 30 voice/6 part +drums/2 simultaneous
digital FX thru the main stereo output (4 other outputs available
+headphones). Accepts two simultaneous PCM cards from the Roland U-110/220
Library.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. RHYTHM UNITS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rhythm sequencers, drum machines, bass line sequencers, electronic drum
kits and accessories.
R-8 Drum Machine (Human Rhythm Composer)
----------------------------------------
- Full MIDI compatibility
(no data)
R-70 Human Rhythm Composer
--------------------------
- of course, it's MIDI, and supports a lot of controllers, etc.
- I use SYSEX all the time to define drum sets and setups from the IBM
(running Cake 2)
- 210 16-bit drum and percussion samples, and they sound really quite nice.
- Positional pad, which can play "across" a drum head or cymbal from the
edge to the center (bell of the cymbal) - this is great for customizing
hits, and it really sounds authentic if you use it right!
- on board effects (these are o.k., and I use them sometimes)
Stereo flange, chorus, delays, reverbs
- 32 spots for User-tweaked samples
- Ram cartridges are available, but I don't use them
(I SYSEX dump to IBM instead)
- It is a "drum machine," and has a hardware sequencer that I sometimes use.
It doesn't mind being the slave, but I usually just use Cake and do all my
work there.
- The unit is capable of creating patterns in various genres, which may be
handy for the person that's temporarily out of ideas. Works fairly well.
I don't use this either, but it's kind of neat. :) Those things it
creates can be converted to user patterns and saved/edited.
- Can memorize some of the MIDI data sent to it
- Recognizes an eight-bit pitch bend resolution, mods, data entry, volume
(of course), panpot, etc. (most used controllers, anyway)
TR-505 MIDI
------
(no data)
TR-606 Drumatix (Non-MIDI)
------
The Drumatix is a totally programmable drum synthesizer/sequencer. The
drum sounds available on the TR-606 include: Bass, Snare, Lo and Hi Toms,
Cymbal, Open and Closed HiHat. Each sound has its own level control for
total mix flexibility.
With the Drumatix, you can program 32 different rhythm patterns which
can be arranged to play up to 8 complete rhythm tracks ("songs"). After
the track has been programmed, the TR-606 can easily sync to other
ProForm products or many other products to play the complete drum track
of the composition.
Specs:
- Programmable in real time or in step mode using input buttons
- ProForm standard includes the TB-303 bass synthesizer/sequencer.
TR-626 MIDI
-----
(no data)
TR-707 Rhythm composer MIDI
----------------------
The TR-707 is a programmable drum machine, similar to the TR727,
but has ordinary drum sounds.
TR-727 Rhythm composer MIDI
----------------------
The TR-727 is a programmable drum machine for latin percussion with MIDI.
Programmable in "step mode" or "tap mode"
4 tracks , 998 bars in total from up to 64 user created rhuthm patterns.
the sequencer supports accents, "flam" (grace-note), and "shuffle" for
rhythmic variants.
15 Sound sources with
Hi Bongo
Low Bongo
Mute Hi Conga
Open Hi Conga
Low Conga
Hi Timbale
Low Timbale
Hi Agogo
Low Agogo
Cabasa
Maracas
Short Whistle
Long Whistle
Quijada
Star Chime
Stereo or Mono Output
Ten independent outputs for each sound source (Bongo, Conga etc.)
stereo headphone jack
built in mixer with individual level control buttons
MIDI Input (1, in), MIDI Outputs (1, out) Cassette Tape Memory/Sync Jacks:
Save/Out, Load/In
DIN Sync IN/OUT Connector
External Trigger Output ("Hi Ag trig out" jack)
DC in 12V, AC adaptor jack
Optional Pedal switch, memory cartridge.
Note numbers used for MIDI are remappable and the unit can thus
be used as a simple sequencer.
TR-808 Non-MIDI
------
Programmable in real time or in step mode using input buttons
(no data)
TR-909 Rhythm Composer MIDI
----------------------
Programmable in real time or in step mode using input buttons
96 patterns (16 patterns x 3 pattern groups) x 2 banks
4 tracks (continuous: max 896 measures) x 2 banks
1-16 step range
Sound sources (controls):
Bass drum (Level, Tune, Decay, Attack)
Snare Drum (Level, Tune, Tone, Snappy)
Low Tom (Level, Tune, Decay)
Mid Tom (Level, Tune, Decay)
High Tom (Level, Tune, Decay)
Rim Shot (Level), Hand Clap (Level), Closed/Open HiHat (Level, Decay)
Crash Cymbal (Level, Tune)
Ride Cymbal (Level, Tune)
Stereo or Mono Output
Independent outputs for each sound source (Bass, Snare, Etc.)
MIDI Input (1), MIDI Outputs (2)
Cassette Tape Memory/Sync Jacks: Save/Out, Load/In
External Trigger Output (Rim Shot jack)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Selected questions and answers on general Roland equipment features.
Specific equipment questions would soon be too numerous to include in
this document, and should be part of another, equipment-specific FAQ.
Q. What is the "Roland GS" standard?
A. The groundbreaking GS standard was created to standardize the Tone
map and MIDI parameters for Roland instruments, providing consistent
rules for defining MIDI Program Change number assignments and sound
modification parameters. Developed in conformity with the General
MIDI format adopted by the MIDI Manufacturer's Association, any GS-
compatible sound source will be able to utilize the same sequencing
data without having to reset MIDI Program Change numbers, Receive
channels, or other parameters. The SB-55 Sound Brush and the SC-55
Sound Canvas were the first instruments to incorporate the GS Standard.
(Source: Roland Users Group)
Q. What drum sounds are available in Roland MIDI equipment?
A. The General MIDI specification designates a 'standard' drum kit ("sounds").
A drum kit is a collection of percussive instruments (snare drum, bass
drum, hi-hats, etc.) laid across the entire MIDI keyboard. Under General
MIDI, MIDI channel 10 is reserved for percussion instruments. General
MIDI defines only one drum kit, which is the Standard Kit. Extensions
to the General MIDI spec allow additional drum sounds, of which the
Roland GS is a well-known extension used in many Roland synthesizers.
Roland GS Mode "drum kits"
--------------------------
Under the "GS" synth mode there are additional (including the
Standard Drum Kit) drum kits you can use on MIDI Channel 10.
Actually, you can set any channel (part) to drum mode
and you can even use two drum kits at the same time.
A part/channel can be either in melodic mode or in one
of two drum modes.
Some common alternate drum kits are:
Name Description
Standard/Jazz Standard General MIDI drum kit.
Jazz is similar to the Standard drum kit.
Room Similar to that of the Standard
kit except that it has more room
ambiance.
Power Again similar to that of the
Standard kit, but with more power
kick and snare drums.
Electronic Electronic drum kit. Most of the
percussion instruments in this
drum kit are reminiscent of old
analogue and digital rhythm
machines (such as the Roland
TR-707 and TR-909 rhythm machine)
TR-808 Electronic drum kit, reminiscent
of the Roland TR-808 rhythm
machine.
Brush Similar to the Standard kit except
that brushes have been added. This
kit is mostly used for Jazz MIDI
pieces.
Orchestra An immense collection of concert
drums and timpani.
SFX A collection of Sound Effects.
CM-64/32L Same as the CM-32L and CM-64 drum kit
This drum kit contains standard
percussion at the lower range of
the keyboard, and sound effects
at the higher range of the
keyboard.
Drum kits are very easy to access under MIDI. Each drum kit is essentially
an instrument and you select a drum kit by selecting an instrument, just
as if you would select a melodic instrument. For example, if you want to
select the TR-808, all you have to do is to perform a program change to 25
on MIDI channel 10. After the program change, all percussion sounds will
be played back through the TR-808 drum kit.
(Source: Roland Users Group,SBAWE32.FAQ)
Q. What drum sounds are available in the "Standard" General MIDI kit?
A. The General MIDI specification designates a 'standard' drum kit
("sounds") which includes the following percussion tones:
STANDARD GM DRUM SET TABLE (From: ROLAND RAP-10 GM SOUNDCARD MANUAL)
PC# NOTE 8VA STANDARD SET
---- ------ ---- ---------------
C
C#
D
27 D# 1 High Q
28 E 1 Slap
29 F 1 Scratch Push
30 F# 1 Scratch Pull
31 G 1 Sticks
32 G# 1 Square Click
33 A 1 Metronome Click
34 Bb 1 Metronome Bell
35 B 1 Kick Drum 2
36 C 2 Kick Drum 1
37 C# 2 Side Stick
38 D 2 Snare Drum 1
39 D# 2 Hand Clap
40 E 2 Snare Drum 2
41 F 2 Low Tom 2
42 F# 2 Closed HiHat[EXC1]
43 G 2 Low Tom 1
44 G# 2 Pedal HiHat [EXC1]
45 A 2 Mid Tom 2
46 Bb 2 Open HiHat [EXC1]
47 B 2 Mid Tom 1
48 C 3 High Tom 2
49 C# 3 Crash Cymbal 1*
50 D 3 High Tom 1
51 D# 3 Ride Cymbal 1
52 E 3 Chinese Cymbal
53 F 3 Ride Bell*
54 F# 3 Tambourine
55 G 3 Splash Cymbal*
56 G# 3 Cowbell
57 A 3 Crash Cymbal 2*
58 Bb 3 Vibra-Slap
59 B 3 Ride Cymbal 2
60 C 4 High Bongo
61 C# 4 Low Bongo
62 D 4 Mute High Conga
63 D# 4 Open High Conga
64 E 4 Low Conga
65 F 4 High Timbale
66 F# 4 Low Timbale
67 G 4 High Agogo
68 G# 4 Low Agogo
69 A 4 Cabasa
70 Bb 4 Maracas
71 B 4 Short Hi Whistle[EXC2]
72 C 5 Long Low Whistle[EXC2]
73 C# 5 Short Guiro [EXC3]
74 D 5 Long Guiro [EXC3]
75 D# 5 Claves
76 E 5 High Wood Block
77 F 5 Low Wood Block
78 F# 5 Mute Cuica [EXC4]
79 G 5 Open Cuica[EXC4]
80 G# 5 Mute Triangle*[EXC5]
81 A 5 Open Triangle[EXC5]
82 Bb 5 Shaker
83 B 5 Jingle Bell
84 C 6 [empty]
85 C# 6 Castanets
86 D 6 Mute Surdo*[EXC6]
87 D# 6 Open Surdo*[EXC6]
88 E 6 [empty]
Notes:
1 "The blank positions have the same instruments as
the ""Standard Set""."
2 Instruments with the same [EXC#] (Exclusive Group
Number) will mute each other when played in
combination.
3 Instruments marked with (*) can have their TVF's
(Time-Variant Filter) modified by Channel Aftertouch
==========================================================================
APPENDICES
==========================================================================
About the ROLAND.FAQ
====================
I have attempted to gather information from spec sheets wherever possible,
but you will notice that some equipment is described by
quoting persons who have put their equipment up for sale and their
descriptions are sufficiently accurate.
Because the price of equipment changes rapidly, I have made no effort to
track average selling prices, etc. Any submissions to me to correct or
include prices in this list will be politely ignored, there are other
sources out there that attempt to track current prices of new equipment,
and I suggest that you look for them if that is what you need.
How to submit information to the ROLAND FAQ
===========================================
Please submit comments, corrections, and additions to:
Tom Honles Internet: tdh@manta.dwp.la.ca.us
or tdh@f945.n102.z1.fidonet.org
Fidonet : Tom Honles @ 1:102/945
Familynet: Tom Honles @ 8:77/28
OS2Net : Tom Honles @ 81:307/6
Submissions should include specs where possible. Data obtained from Roland
product literature or magazine reviews is preferred, but hands-on owner's
experiences and comments are welcome. Specs are most readable when listed
in a line-by-line, item-by-item style. Comments and reviews are typically
in a running prose. For an example see the entry for the RAP-10/AT soundcard
in the MIDI COMPUTER PERIPHERALS section of the FAQ.
Credits
=======
Equipment data obtained from manufacturer's literature where possible.
Other sources include public postings of descriptions by owners of
equipment via Usenet conferences or e-mail, including but not limited to:
From: talb@zeus.datasrv.co.il (Tal Barenboim)
From: dcole@ua.d.umn.edu (david cole)
From: Kenn Fink (Fidonet MIDINET)
From: Andrew W Gamlen
From: SteveG1119@aol.com (Steve Grace)
From: Don Guy (Fidonet MIDINET)
From: William Hsu: hsu@acuson.com
From: George Kotsopoulos(Fidonet MIDINET)
From: andrew.maclean@rose.com (andrew maclean)
From: Adam Mirowski
From: nhan@bnr.ca (Gia Nhan)
From: JT
From: mo@kreftreg.no (Mads Olsen)
From: Jon Rose (Fidonet MIDINET)
From: (Alf) Thomas Sjoeland
From: urbain@lion.de (Juri Urbainczyk)
From: velhart@epas.utoronto.ca (Nicholas Velharticky)
From: 3JMD2@QUCDN.QueensU.CA (Gooey)
From: Irdial-Discs
From: quest@panix.com (Quest)
From: RICKATZ@delphi.com
From: rjbakker@et.tudelft.nl (ROBERT)
From: analogue@magnus.acs.ohio-state.edu (Analog Heaven mailing list)
- Thanks.
How to Contact Roland
=====================
ROLAND CORPORATION US
---------------------
Warranty Repair Service
7200 Dominion Circle
Los Angeles, California 90040-3696
(213)722-0911 FAX
(213)685-5141 Main Technical Support (extension 770)
(213)726-8865 Main Technical Support FAX
CompuServe Forum
In addition to the above numbers, technical information articles,
technical support messaging and Help files uppdates are provided
online via Compuserve. To access the Roland forum, type
GO ROLAND
at any CompuServe prompt.
CompuServe E-Mail Account
The account number is RolandTech,72662,376
ROLAND CORPORATION OUTSIDE USA:
-------------------------------
Roland Canada Music Company
5480 Parkwood Way
Richmond, B.C. V6V 2M4
Phone (604) 270-6626
FAX (604) 270-6552
(THERE ARE OTHERS, WILL BE LISTED IN FAQ IF REQUESTED)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
I am in no way connected with or compensated by Roland Corporation or
any affiliates in production of this document. This document has been
created solely for the purpose of providing a convenient service to
other owners of Roland equipment. The information contained within
this document is as accurate as has been presented to me, and may contain
significant errors. You are encouraged to verify the details on the
particular equipment you are purchasing or comparing with the seller
or with Roland Corporation.
Tom Honles
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
******************************************************************
EMail: tdh@manta.dwp.la.ca.us OR tdh@f945.n102.z1.fidonet.org
IF mail gets BOUNCED back from manta, TRY tdh@dwp.la.ca.us
(sorry, it's a gateway problem)
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