Main Features - Roland VK-88 Owner's Manual

Main Features

Organ Features
Virtual Tonewheel Sound Generator
The VK-88 features a Virtual Tonewheel sound generator that perfectly simulates the sound-production
mechanism of traditional tone wheel organs. The rapid attack is particularly evident when playing glissandos.
Since all parts — upper, lower, and pedal — are completely polyphonic, notes aren't cut off regardless of your
performance technique.
Rotary Sound
An effect algorithm using Roland's COSM technology creates a faithful rotary speaker simulation that's
essential for a great organ sound. Enjoy the realistic rotary sound simply by connecting headphones, a
keyboard amp (such as the KC-1000) or stereo system.
Overdrive Sound
The VK-88 accurately simulates not only the special characteristics of the rotary speaker's vacuum tube
circuitry and the speaker cabinet's acoustic properties, it provides a variety of simulated amp types as well.
Switch among the various amp types to enjoy performing with a wide range of sounds, from tones that are
just right for jazz to the heavy overdrive sound of rock music.
Waterfall Keyboard
The VK-88 features the same keyboard feel as traditional tone wheel organs. This keyboard is especially
designed for optimal performance of glissando and other organ techniques.
Intuitive Operation
The VK-88 is designed with an emphasis on operability, with harmonic bars, rotary knobs, and large buttons.
The VIBRATO AND CHORUS and PERCUSSION controls feature the same operation and placement as on
traditional tone wheel organs.
Tone wheel Type, Leakage Noise, Amp Simulator, and other elements vital to creating a great organ sound
can be edited directly and intuitively from the front panel just as if you were adjusting the sound on a guitar
amp.
Natural Wood Cabinet
The cabinet is built of wood, echoing the construction of traditional tone wheel organs. The side panels feature
beautifully finished natural wood that will gain luster with years of use.
Built-in Orchestral Tones Complement the Organ Sound Generator
The VK-88 includes an ORCHESTRAL TONES feature that is separate from the organ sound generator,
providing high-quality internal strings, piano sounds, and other tones. Use these in combination with the
organ to further enhance expression in your performances.
The VK-88 also is equipped with ORCHESTRAL TONES harmonic bars, allowing you to control these tones
in the same manner as the organ.
Other Features
• You can use the D BEAM controller to create performance gestures unique to traditional tone wheel
organs, such as turning the tone wheel motor off or producing the "splash" of a quick kick to a spring
reverb unit. You can also confirm the effect by the change in color of the color LEDs. Take advantage of
the D BEAM controller to heighten the excitement of your performances onstage.
• A dedicated rotary speaker connector is provided. Rotary speakers with an eleven-pin connector can be
connected directly to the VK-88.
• The VK-88's MIDI IN and OUT connectors let you enjoy performances using an external sound module or
sequencer.
• You can also enjoy performing with a pedalboard by connecting an external pedalboard to the PEDAL IN
jack.
• User Registration memory lets you store 64 different panel settings.
• In addition to Expression Pedal and Hold Pedal jacks, a Control Pedal jacks are provided that can be
assigned a variety of functions. By connecting an expression pedal or pedal switch, you can enjoy a wide
range of performance possibilities.
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