Roland VS-880EX Owner's Manual
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Roland VS-880EX Owner's Manual

Roland owner's manual digital studio workstation vs-880ex
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®
Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: "IMPOR-
TANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" (p. 2), "USING THE UNIT SAFELY" (p.
3, 4), and "IMPORTANT NOTES" (p. 5). These sections provide important
information concerning the proper operation of the unit. Additionally, in
order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp of every feature
provided by your new unit, Quick Start, Owner's Manual, and Appendices
should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on
hand as a convenient reference.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form
without the written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION.
OWNER'S MANUAL
Copyright © 1998 ROLAND CORPORATION
Roland Homepage http://www.rolandcorp.com/

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  • Page 1 The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference. Copyright © 1998 ROLAND CORPORATION All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION. Roland Homepage http://www.rolandcorp.com/ OWNER'S MANUAL...

  • Page 2: Important Safety Instructions

    CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN ATTENTION : RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS.

  • Page 3: Using The Unit Safely

    • Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as list- ed on the “Information” page. • Always turn the unit off and unplug the power cord before attempting installation of the Hard disk drive unit (HDP88 series: Quick Start p.
  • Page 4 USING THE UNIT SAFELY • Always grasp only the plug on the power-supply cord when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit. • Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entangled. Also, all cords and cables should be placed so they are out of the reach of children.

  • Page 5: Important Notes

    Place the hard disk in its carton and set this in the specified place inside the VS-880EX shipping carton. The unit is now ready to be transported. Moving the VS-880EX with the hard disk installed may result in loss of...

  • Page 6: Handling The Disk Drive

    If you are using a Zip drive, confirm that this indicator is not lit before removing disks. While using the VS-880EX, be careful not to subject the unit to vibration or shock, and avoid moving the unit while the power is turned on.

  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    Recorder Section ... 16 Display section ... 18 Rear Panel ... 19 Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology) ... 21 Saving and Managing Data ... 21 Managing Disk Contents (Partitioning) ... 21 The Location Where a Performance is Recorded (Song) ... 22 Sources, Tracks, and Channels ...
  • Page 8 CONTENTS General Course of the Recording Process ... 41 Connecting Instruments ... 41 Recording to the Tracks ... 42 Saving a Recorded Performance (Song Store) ... 43 Recording Over a Portion of a Performance (Punch-In/Punch-Out) ... 44 Using the RECORD Button (Manual Punch-In 1) ... 44 Using the Foot switch (Manual Punch-In 2) ...
  • Page 9 Items Necessary for Synchronization ... 116 Master and Slave ... 116 Using MTC ... 116 Synchronization with the VS-880EX as the Reference (Master) ... 117 Synchronization with the MIDI Sequencer as the Reference (Slave) ... 118 Synchronizing with an External MIDI Device ... 119 Using the Sync Track (Master) ...
  • Page 10 Song Data Compatibility ... 137 Loading VS-880 Performance Data into the VS-880EX (Song Import) ... 137 Converting VS-880EX Song Data for Use with the VS-880 (Song Export) ... 138 Chapter 12 Other Convenient Functions ... 140 Previewing Techniques (Preview) ... 140 Using [TO] [FROM] ...
  • Page 11 If Noise Between Segments is Obtrusive ... 169 Resetting Mixer and System Settings to Their Original State ... 169 Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) 170 Synchronizing the Operations of Two VS-880EX Units ... 170 Settings for the Master VS-880EX ... 170 Settings for the Slave VS-880EX ...

  • Page 12: Preparations

    Main Features The Latest in Compact Home Studio Environments The VS-880EX retains all of the features of Roland’s VS-880 workstation; a revolution in the world of the home studio, with the disk recorder, digital mixer, and multi effects systematically and more organically inte- grated.
  • Page 13 VS-880EX, we recommend using the 2.1 GB or larger Hard Disk. CD-R Drive (designated by Roland): A CD-R drive connected with a SCSI connector.

  • Page 14: Front And Rear Panels

    Front and Rear Panels Mixer Section PEAK Indicators These indicators allow you to confirm the sound level input at the input jacks (1–6). They help you to deter- mine the correct input level when adjusting the INPUT knobs. You will need to specify the level at which the indicators light beforehand (p.

  • Page 15: Master Fader

    STATUS Buttons These buttons switch the status of each track. The cur- rent status is shown by the button indicator. SOURCE (orange): The input source or track assigned to the channel is being output. REC (blinking red): Recording is selected for the track assigned to the channel.

  • Page 16: Recorder Section

    Preparations Recorder Section EDIT CONDITION Buttons The functions and parameters of the VS-880EX are organized within these buttons. To use a desired oper- ation, press the appropriate button. LOCATOR Button Pressing this button allows you to store or recall Locators and Markers or to store or recall Scenes (the mixer settings).

  • Page 17: Preview Button

    PLAY (DISPLAY) Button Press this button to return to the screen that appears when the VS-880EX is turned on (normal playback sta- tus). In conjunction with [SHIFT], this switches the item shown in the bar display.

  • Page 18: Display Section

    Preparations Display section CONDITION This indicates the current condition. PLY: Normal status (Play condition). INn: Change the input mixer settings (n=1–8, a–d). TRn: Change the track mixer settings (n=1–8 to a–d). RTN: Change the return mixer settings. MST: Change the master block settings. SNG: Song edit LOC: Locator edit TRK: Track edit...

  • Page 19: Rear Panel

    Rear Panel POWER Switch This switch turns power of the VS-880EX on and off. AC IN (AC Inlet) Connect the included power cable here. SCSI Connector This is a DB-25 type SCSI connector for connecting disk drives such as a Zip disk drive or a CD-R drive.

  • Page 20: Phones Jack

    Preparations FOOT SWITCH Jack An optional foot switch (such as the DP-2 or the BOSS FS-5U) can be connected here when you want to con- trol recorder operations, mark point settings, and punch in/out operations, and so on with a foot switch. With the factory settings, a foot switch is set to start and stop the recorder.

  • Page 21: Chapter 1 Before You Start (Vs-880Ex Terminology)

    VS-880EX. Saving and Managing Data Managing Disk Contents (Partitioning) The VS-880EX saves all of the data such as — perfor- mance data, mixing data, system data, etc. — on the disk drive. Thus, it cannot operate without either hav- ing an internal disk or being connected to a Zip drive with a SCSI connector.

  • Page 22: The Location Where A Performance Is Recorded (Song)

    For more detailed information, please see “Compatibility” (p. 136). * The VS-880EX accepts installation of Internal hard disks (desinated by Roland). For simultaneous recording or playback of a number of tracks, for getting more out of the...

  • Page 23: About Events

    About Events The smallest unit of memory used by the VS-880EX to store recorded results on disk is called an event. A newly created song is provided approximately 12,800 events. For each track, one recording pass uses two events. Operations such as punch-in/out or track copy also use up events.

  • Page 24: Mixer Section

    Water Heater If we think of the VS-880EX as the house, the water being supplied from the water company corresponds to inputs such as mic or guitar. Some of these inputs are sent to recording tracks and are recorded. Other portions are sent to the effects, and reverb or chorus are applied before they are output.
  • Page 25 Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology) The VS-880EX has the following buses. RECORDING Bus: Signals assigned to the RECORDING bus are routed to the recorder section to be recorded. There are eight channels which can be assigned to the output of the input mixer, track mixer, and effects (Return).

  • Page 26: Input Mixer

    Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology) Input Mixer Input mixer is placed before the recorder section, and correspond to the external input sources (INPUT 1–6, DIGITAL IN L/R). INPUT 1 INPUT 2 INPUT 3 INPUT 4 INPUT 5 INPUT 6...

  • Page 27: Track Mixer

    Each channel is output from the MASTER jacks. It is also possible to assign them to the recording bus for recording. In this case, the channel faders correspond to the following signals. Channel 6: Channel 7: Channel 8: Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology) Track Mixer (Track 1–8) Fader1 Pan1 Fader2 Pan2...

  • Page 28: Switching The Fader Functions

    Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology) Switching the Fader Functions On the VS-880EX, it is able to adjust Input mixer or Track mixer by switching the function of the channel faders on the top panel. Pressing [FADER] on the top panel toggles between the input mixer and the track mixer.

  • Page 29: Track Minutes And Recording Time

    This unit is referred to as a track minute. Track 1 Track 2 Track 3 Track 4 00h00m00s00 Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology) available recording time 00h30m00s00 Time available recording time 00h30m00s00 In Case of Disk Recording...

  • Page 30: Auxiliary Tracks For Each Track

    00h00m00s00 Auxiliary Tracks for Each Track The VS-880EX provides 8 playback tracks, and allows 8 tracks to be recorded simultaneously. Each track is composed from the features 8 supplementary tracks, each on of which can be used for recording or playback. These auxiliary tracks are called V-tracks.

  • Page 31: Effects Section

    Effects Section About the Effect Expansion Board The VS-880EX contains effect. This allows you to use up to two stereo effects (FX1 and FX2) simultaneously. Connecting Effects On the VS-880EX, there are two ways to connect the effects devices. Please read and understand these differences described below.

  • Page 32: Chapter 2 Basic Operation

    CONDITION MARKER# TIME INPUT TRACK * When you turn on the power of the VS-880EX, the disk drive must be recognized and certain required data must be loaded. Thus, it takes a short while for the unit to start 2. Turn on the power of connected audio equipment.

  • Page 33: Turning Off The Power

    5. Turn down the volume of your audio equipment. 6. Turn off the power of the audio equipment. 7. Turn off the power of the VS-880EX with the POWER switch on the rear panel. * After the power is turned off, the momentum of the hard disk causes it to continue spinning for a short while.

  • Page 34: Basic Operations On The Vs-880Ex

    A list of the different condi- tions described below. Play Condition: Here you can perform normal playback/recording. The VS-880EX is put in Play condition whenever the power is turned on. Channel Condition: This is the condition in which input mixer, track mixer, or effect return mixer-related settings are made.

  • Page 35: Select The Setting You Want To Change

    Plays back each track. You can directly specify what is to be played back by pressing the STATUS button while holding down [STOP]. OFF (darkness): The track is muted (silent). * The VS-880EX can record up to eight tracks simultane- ously. increase Chapter 2 Basic Operation...

  • Page 36: Changing The Current Time

    Hold down [SHIFT] and press [SONG END (FF)]. Song Top Storing a Time Location With the VS-880EX, there are two ways you can mark and easily recall sections of a song that you want to record over or listen to repeatedly. One is called the Locator function, and the other one is referred to as the Marker function.

  • Page 37: Using The Locator

    Using the Locator Time locations are stored with the LOC buttons ([1/5]–[4/8]) on the top panel of the VS-880EX. In con- junction with [SHIFT], you can register up to eight time locations, and move immediately to a registered location simply by pressing a button. There are four banks for each button, providing you with up to 32 (8 x 4) locators.

  • Page 38: Deleting A Stored Time Location

    Chapter 2 Basic Operation Deleting a Stored Time Location 1. While holding down [CLEAR], press the LOC button ([1/5]–[4/8]) for locate point that you wish to delete. For example, if you wish to delete the LOCATOR 1’s located point, then press [CLEAR] and [1/5] simultaneously.
  • Page 39 Moving the Location of Markers 1. Press [PLAY (DISPLAY)]. 2. In the display, the “MARKER” field will indicate the marker number of the current location. Use CURSOR [ ] to move the cursor to the MARKER field, and rotate the TIME/VALUE dial.

  • Page 40: Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording

    Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording This chapter explains the operations necessary for recording with the VS-880EX. Try out each operation as you read these instructions. Recording Items Necessary for Multi-Track Recording • VS-880EX (1) • Internal IDE hard disk • Audio equipment for the Master Out signal, or stereo headphones •...

  • Page 41: General Course Of The Recording Process

    Song Numbers On the VS-880EX, management of song data is accomplished by assigning a song number to every song that is saved. Newly created songs are given the lowest currently available number. For...

  • Page 42: Recording To The Tracks

    Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording Recording to the Tracks 1. Select a recording track. While holding down [REC], press the STATUS button for the track to which you want to record. The STATUS indicator blinks red. 2. Switch to the input mixer. Press [FADER (EDIT)] several times to let the FADER indicator light orange.

  • Page 43: Saving A Recorded Performance (Song Store)

    ] several * When handling important song data, or when using the VS-880EX for extended periods, we recommended that you to perform this procedure frequently. 1. Hold down [SHIFT] and press [STORE (ZERO)]. 2. “STORE OK?” appears in the display. If you are satisfied with the results of your recording, press [YES].

  • Page 44: Recording Over A Portion Of A Performance (Punch-In/Punch-Out)

    8. Press [PLAY] again to playback the song. 9. When you reach the point in the performance you want to re-record, press [REC]. The VS-880EX goes in to record mode; start rerecord- ing the song or performance. 10. When you have finished recording, press [REC] once more (or press [PLAY] to playback the song).

  • Page 45: Specifying Beforehand The Location For Rerecording (Auto Punch-In)

    1. Connect an optional foot switch (such as the DP-2 or the BOSS FS-5U) to the VS-880EX’s FOOT SWITCH jack. 2. Press [SYSTEM] several times until “SYS System PRM?” appears in the display. 3. Press PARAMETER [ ] several times until “SYS FootSw=”...

  • Page 46: Recording Procedure

    Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording Using Markers The space between two adjacent mark points can be used to define the segment for Punch-In Recording. 1. Preset Markers where you want to punch in and then punch out. 2. Move to the mark point located at the desired punch-in time.

  • Page 47: Repeatedly Recording Over The Same Area (Loop Recording)

    9. Press [REC]. 10. Press [PLAY] again. Playback of the song begins. 11. The VS-880EX automatically goes into record mode at the point where the punch-in is set. Start the song or performance now. 12. When you reach the point where the punch-out is set, the VS-880EX automatically returns to play- back mode.
  • Page 48 11. When you reach the point where the punch-in is set, the VS-880EX automatically returns to play- back mode. Playback continues until the end of the loop, and the loop repeats from the start point once again.

  • Page 49: Recording To Other Tracks (Overdubbing)

    Steps of “Recording to the Tracks” (p. 42), to record and then check the content. Recording on V-Track 2 The VS-880EX features 8 tracks, each of which contains 8 auxiliary tracks. These subsidiary tracks are referred to as V-tracks. Each song can have two sets (A and B) of these 64 V- tracks (8 tracks x 8 V-tracks), and each such set is referred to as a V-track bank.

  • Page 50: Using Effects

    Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording Using Effects Applying Effects to the Playback When you playback a song, you will frequently want to apply effects such as reverb or delay. Here we will explain how to apply reverb as you playback previ- ously recorded tracks.

  • Page 51: Applying Effects While Recording (Send/Return)

    14. Now reverb will be applied. The signal flow will be as follows. Level (2band, 3band) (Fader) Track 15. Press [PLAY (DISPLAY)]. Return to Play condition. Playback the song and verify that the effect is being applied. Applying Effects While Recording (Send/Return) Now we will see how to add affects to the source at the INPUT 1 jack, and then record the direct sound and the sound with effects to Track 1.

  • Page 52: Applying Effects While Recording (Insert)

    Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording Specify the Input to Which the Effect is to be Applied 5. Press [FADER (EDIT)] several times to let the FADER indicator light orange. 6. Press the channel 1 [CH EDIT (SELECT)]. 7. Hold down [SHIFT] and press the channel 7 [EFFECT-1 (CH EDIT)].
  • Page 53 Specify the Input Channel to Which the Effect is to be Applied 6. Press [FADER (EDIT)] several times to let the FADER indicator light orange. 7. Press the channel 1 [CH EDIT (SELECT)]. 8. Press PARAMETER [ 9. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. FX1 Ins (Effect 1 Insert Switch) This sets how the Insert functions.
  • Page 54 Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording 18. Now the setup is completed. In this case, the signal flow will be as the fol- lows. (2band, 3band) Channel 1 Channel 2 (2band, 3band) 19. Hold down [REC] and press the Track 1 and 2 STATUS buttons. The STATUS indicator blinks red.

  • Page 55: Recording Digital Signals

    Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording In Order to Make a Digital Connection with Your CD Player At the time of purchase, the VS-880EX is not able to record the output of CD players via its DIGITAL IN connectors. Perform the following procedure when you wish to make a digital connection with your CD player.

  • Page 56: Select The Master Clock

    3. Press PARAMETER [ “SYS MasterClk=” appears in the display. 4. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. MasterClk (Master Clock) This sets the VS-880EX’s reference clock. In this case, select “DIGIN1” or “DIGIN2.” DIGIN1: Based on the digital signal received from the DIGITAL IN connector (coaxial).

  • Page 57: Adjusting The Tone (Equalizer)

    Assign *** Specify the source/track/effect return which will assigned to each track for recording. If you press [YES] the display will indicate “On,” showing that it has been assigned for recording. If you press [NO], the display will indicate “Off,” and the signal will not be assigned (it will not be recorded).
  • Page 58 Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording 4. Press PARAMETER [ until “EQ Switch=” appears in the display. 5. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. EQ Switch (Equalizer Switch) If you wish to use the equalizer, set this “On.” If not, set this “Off.” When equalizer settings are being made, the equalization curve will be shown graphically in the bar display.
  • Page 59 EQM (Equalizer Mid) This adjusts the center frequency (200 Hz–8 kHz) and Q (definition: 0.5–16) of the mid-range (peaking) equalizer. Frequency CONDITION MARKER# TIME INPUT TRACK EQM Q (0.5–16) Gain 12. Hold down [SHIFT] and press the channel 5 [EQ Hi (SELECT)].

  • Page 60: Combining The Contents Of Tracks (Track Bouncing)

    Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording Combining the Contents of Tracks (Track Bouncing) You can mix the performances recorded on two or more tracks and rerecord them onto a different empty track. This operation is known as track bouncing. It is a convenient technique to use when you have run out of free tracks.

  • Page 61: Applying Reverb While Track Bouncing

    21. Press [PLAY] to begin playback of the song. 22. Adjust the volume balance with the faders for Channels 1–4. The presently monitored sound (volume levels, pan) will be recorded to Tracks 5 and 6 just as you hear it. You can raise the volume as much as possible without causing distortion.
  • Page 62 Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording EFFECT1 (Effect 1 Send Select Switch) This sets how the signal is sent to the EFFECT 1 bus. Here, select “PstFade” (post-fader) to apply reverb to the sound after the output of the channel fader. Off: The signal is not sent.

  • Page 63: Creating A Master Tape

    4. Put the cassette recorder in record mode. 5. Press [PLAY] on the VS-880EX to begin playback of the song. If you want to fade in or out, use the VS-880EX’s mas- ter fader for this. 6. When you have finished recording, stop the cas- sette recorder.

  • Page 64: Protecting Songs (Song Protect)

    After you have finished all work for the day, turn on Song Protect immediately before shutting off the power to the VS-880EX. Furthermore, right after turning on the power to the VS-880EX at the beginning the day’s operations, you should imme- diately turn off Song Protect.

  • Page 65: Protecting Performances

    An asterisk "*" will be displayed at the beginning of the current song. Different types of songs (for the VS-880 and VS-880EX) are distinguished. 4. Press [YES]. "Select Song, Sure?" (Are you sure that you want to select this song?) will be dis- played.

  • Page 66: Chapter 4 Using The Internal Effects

    This chapter explains how to use these internal effects. Composition of the Effects The VS-880EX has two effect units which allow two types of effect to be applied simultaneously (FX1 and FX2). For each channel of the mixer you can specify the effect which will be used.

  • Page 67: Inserting With Input And Track Channels

    Inserting with Input and Track Channels 1. Press [CH EDIT (SELECT)] for the channel to which you want to apply the effect. The CH EDIT indicator lights. 2. Press PARAMETER [ Ins=” appears in the display. Now you can make settings for effect 1. 3.

  • Page 68: Adding The Sound With The Effect Applied To The Direct Sound (Send/Return)

    Chapter 4 Using the Internal Effects MST FX1 INS Sw (Master Effect 1 Insert Switch) This sets how the effects are connected. Off: There is no Insert. Inserts in both channels of the stereo effect. 4. Press PARAMETER [ “MST FX1 Ins Send=” appears in the display. 5.
  • Page 69 Settings for Each Channel 1. Press [CH EDIT (SELECT)] for the channel to which you want to apply the effect. The CH EDIT indicator lights. 2. Hold down [SHIFT] and press the channel 7 [EFFECT-1 (CH EDIT)]. The upper line of the display will indicate “EFFECT 1,”...

  • Page 70: Selecting Effects (Patch)

    Chapter 4 Using the Internal Effects 3. Press PARAMETER [ FX1 RTNLev=” appears in the display. 4. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. RTN FX1 RTNLev (Master Effect 1 Return Level) Adjust the return level (0–127) of the effect sound. Set the initial value to “100.” 5.

  • Page 71: Creating New Effects Sounds

    Scene. About Algorithms An algorithm determines the composition or structure of an effect. The VS-880EX features 34 different algorithms. The settings for the effects in each patch use at least one of these algorithms. Check the algorithms used in each patch in “Preset Patch List”...

  • Page 72: When Saving To User Patches

    When you save effect settings to a User Patch, the User Patch that had previously been in that location is lost. At the time of purchase, the effects in the VS-880EX’s User Patches are the same as those stored in the Preset Patches.

  • Page 73: Chapter 5 Storing Mixer Settings

    Chapter 5 Storing Mixer Settings With the VS-880EX, there are two functions to recall mixer settings easily. One is refered to as the Scene, and the other one is referred to as the EZ Routing. According to the circumstances, please use each func- tion.

  • Page 74: Deleting A Scene

    VS-880EX. This is referred to as EZ Routing. For example, when setting tracks to be played back or...

  • Page 75: Recalling Recording Settings (Recording/Template)

    Select this when recording the performance data from multiple tracks onto a number of other tracks. Recall a preset routing (bouncing) which has been pre-regis- tered when the VS-880EX was shipped. 1. Press [EZ ROUTING] several times until “EZR Bouncing ?” appears in the display.

  • Page 76: Recalling Mixdown Settings (Mixdown/Template)

    Select this when you want adjust the balance of each track or to record a MD recorder or similar input in two-channel stereo. Recall a preset routing (mixdown) (TR7=L63, which has been pre-registered when the VS-880EX TR8=R63, TRd Ofs Bal=0) was shipped.

  • Page 77: Storing Recording Settings (Recording/Step Edit)

    Display (parameter name) Input Mixer Channel Link EFFECT1 PstFade EFFECT1 Send EFFECT1 Pan EFFECT2 PstFade EFFECT2 Send EFFECT2 Pan Display (parameter name) Return Mixer StereoIn FX1 RTN Lev FX1 RTN Bal FX2 RTN Lev FX2 RTN Bal Display (parameter name) Master Block Master Sel EQ Mode...
  • Page 78 Chapter 5 Storing Mixer Settings 8. “IN* Link=” (“*” is the displayed input) appears in the display. Specify the inputs for which you will turn Channel Link ON. Press the SELECT (CH EDIT) button of the inputs for which you wish to turn Channel Link ON, and rotate the TIME/VALUE dial.
  • Page 79 19. “IN* FX1 Ins=” appears in the display. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. If you wish to insert effect 1, select either “Ins,” “InsL,” “InsR,” or “InsS,” and proceed to step 20. If you wish to use effect 1 in a send/return configuration, select “Off”...
  • Page 80 Chapter 5 Storing Mixer Settings 36. Press PARAMETER [ ]. You can return to the previous screen by pressing PARAMETER [ 37. “IN* SndPan” appears in the display. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to adjust the send pan. 38. Press PARAMETER [ ].

  • Page 81: Storing Track Bouncing Settings (Bouncing/Step Edit)

    Storing Track Bouncing Settings (Bouncing/Step Edit) Select this when recording the performance data from multiple tracks onto a number of other tracks. 1. Press [EZ ROUTING] several times until “EZR Bouncing ?” appears in the display. 2. Press [YES]. “EZR Use Template” (do you wish to apply the tem- plate?) appears in the display.
  • Page 82 Chapter 5 Storing Mixer Settings 12. “TR* Level =” appears in the display. Adjust the level of the playback track. Press the SELECT (CH EDIT) button for the playback track whose level you wish to adjust, and use the TIME/VALUE dial.
  • Page 83 29. Press PARAMETER [ ]. You can return to the previous screen by pressing PARAMETER [ 30. “Use EFFECT2 ?” appears in the display. If you wish to use effect 2 press [YES], and make settings for effect 2 as described in steps 15–28. If you do not wish to use effect 2, press [NO] and proceed to step 31.

  • Page 84: Storing Mixdown Settings (Mixdown/Step Edit)

    MD recorder or similar input in two-channel stereo. Additionally, when playing back all 16 tracks, by mixing the output of the VS-880EX along with the output of a synchronized MIDI sequencer or other such device, you can also record to MD recorders or similar devices.
  • Page 85 8. Press PARAMETER [ ]. You can return to the previous screen by pressing PARAMETER [ 9. “Level =” appears in the display. Adjust the level of the track/source. Press the SELECT (CH EDIT) button for the track/source whose level you wish to adjust, and use the TIME/VALUE dial.
  • Page 86 Chapter 5 Storing Mixer Settings 26. “AUX Snd=” appears in the display. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. If you wish to send the track/source to the AUX bus, select either “Pre” or “Pst,” and proceed to step 27. If you do not wish to send the track/source to the AUX bus, select “Off,”...

  • Page 87: Saving The Current Routing (User Routing)

    40. “FX2 MstIns=” appears in the display. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. If you wish to insert effect 2 into the master out, select “On.” If not, select “Off.” If effect 2 has been inserted in another channel, the display will indicate “—” and this item cannot be set.

  • Page 88: Chapter 6 Editing A Recorded Performance (Track Editing)

    Chapter 6 Editing a Recorded Performance (Track Editing) This chapter explains the content and procedures for editing sound that has been recorded. Please read this chapter to gain an understanding of the concepts of “editing” described in this section. About Editing Operations On a tape recorder, in order to modify a performance that has been recorded you have to erase the perfor- mance which you recorded previously.

  • Page 89: Repeating Performance Data (Track Copy)

    If you have selected an item which specifies a time, a play list will appear in the bar display. In this case if you wish to view an amplitude profile or the track selection status in the bar display, hold down [SHIFT] and press [PLAY (DISPLAY)].
  • Page 90 Chapter 6 Editing a Recorded Performance (Track Editing) 11. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. St (Start point) Specifies the starting time of the copy range. 12. Press PARAMETER [ “TRK Frm=” appears in the display. 13. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. Frm (From point) Specifies the time of the copy source playback data in relation to the “To”...

  • Page 91: Moving Performance Data (Track Move)

    Moving Performance Data (Track Move) This operation moves the playback data in a specified range to another location. This is convenient for cor- recting timing mistakes that can occur during record- ing. If playback data exists at the move destination, that data will be overwritten.

  • Page 92: Exchanging Performance Data Between Tracks (Track Exchange)

    Chapter 6 Editing a Recorded Performance (Track Editing) Using “Frm” Effectively Normally, the data is copied starting at the speci- fied move destination time. However, if you want to have the move made with reference to a point within the designated range where a specific sound occurs, set this with “Frm.”...

  • Page 93: Inserting A Blank Space Into Performance Data (Track Insert)

    Track Exchange with a different V-track bank You can use Track Exchange to swap tracks or V- tracks of different V-track banks. For example if you wish to copy track 1 / V-track 1 of V-track bank A (hereafter referred to as A-1-1) to track 1 / V-track 1 of V-track bank B (referred to as B-1-1), you can use the following procedure.

  • Page 94: Deleting Performance Data (Track Cut)

    Chapter 6 Editing a Recorded Performance (Track Editing) 5. Rotating the TIME/VALUE dial allows you to specify the insert destination V-track. For exam- ple, “1-1” means “V-track 1 of track 1,” “1-*” means “all V-tracks of track 1,” and “*-*” means “all V-tracks of all tracks.”...

  • Page 95: Erasing Performance Data (Track Erase)

    5. You can use the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the V-track that you wish to delete. For example, “1- 1” means “V-track 1 of track 1,” “1-*” means “all V-tracks of track 1,” and “*-*” means “all V-tracks of all tracks.” Displayed blinking CONDITION MARKER# TIME...

  • Page 96: Modifying The Playback Time Of The Performance Data

    Chapter 6 Editing a Recorded Performance (Track Editing) 4. Press [STATUS] for the track on which you want to carry out Track Erase. The STATUS indicator will light red. 5. You can use the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the V-track that you wish to erase. For example, “1-1” means “V-track 1 of track 1,”...
  • Page 97 For example, if the playback time is shortened, the pitch of the sound played back then rises. On the VS-880EX, you can select whether the playback pitch changes in accor- dance with the ratio of compression or expansion, or whether the original playback pitch is preserved.
  • Page 98 Chapter 6 Editing a Recorded Performance (Track Editing) Amplitude This specifies the volume level ratio (50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100%) that will result from the conversion. Normally, the default value of 60% is recommended. If the vol- ume level after conversion is too low, use the Undo function to return to the original data, increase the amplitude settings, and try the operation again.

  • Page 99: Chapter 7 Use With A Zip Drive

    Chapter 7 Use with a Zip Drive A Zip drive can be connected to the SCSI connector of the VS-880EX. Be sure to read the owner’s manual for your Zip drive as well. This chapter will explain the procedures for saving songs to Zip disks and for returning songs saved to Zip disks back to the internal hard disk.

  • Page 100: Initializing The Disk (Drive Initialize)

    VS-880EX as is. You must initialize the disk so that it can be used by the VS-880EX. When a disk is initialized, the entire contents are irretrievably lost. Check any such disk you plan to initialize to make sure that it does not contain anything that you don’t...

  • Page 101: Checking Disk Reliability

    “File System Err”: A read or write failure has occurred in a location which stores basic data used by the VS-880EX for recording and playback. This disk drive cannot be used by the VS-880EX.

  • Page 102: Saving Performance Data To A Zip Drive (Song Copy)

    Saving Performance Data to a Zip Drive (Song Copy) You can save song data created on the VS-880EX to an external disk. This is a convenient way to have song data backed up in the event of possible disk drive problems or to save data when there is little free disk space.

  • Page 103: Saving A Song To A Single Disk (Playable)

    Disk (Playable) Here, the procedure for saving a playable copy of a song on the VS-880EX’s internal hard disk to a Zip disk which is set to SCSI ID Number 5 is explained. The approximate times which can be copied to one Zip disk (100 Mbyte) are as follows (calculated as one track).

  • Page 104: To Load Data From Disks (Drive Select)

    Internal Hard Disk Internal Hard Disk Zip Disk 1. Confirm that power of both the Zip drive and the VS-880EX is turned on. Song 1 2. Insert a disk into the Zip drive. 3. Press [SYSTEM] several times until “SYS Drive Select”...

  • Page 105: When You Cannot Save A Song To A Single Disk (Archives)

    10. Following the procedure described in “Saving a Song to a Single Disk” (p. 103), make a playable copy of the song on the Zip disk to the internal hard disk. 11. After you have made the copy, repeat Steps 3–9 to reselect the internal hard disk as the current drive.

  • Page 106: Loading Data From Disks (Extract)

    Chapter 7 Use with a Zip Drive 17. When copying over multiple Zip disks, “Insert Disk #” (# indicates the number in the order of insertion) appears in the display. Insert each of the disks once more in the proper order and press [YES].

  • Page 107: Chapter 8 Use With A Cd-Rw Drive

    Chapter 8 Use with a CD-RW Drive You can connect a CD-RW drive which is designated by Roland, to the VS-880EX’s SCSI connector. This chapter explains the procedures involved in creating your own original audio CDs and in backing up song data to CD-RW discs.

  • Page 108: Creating An Audio Cd

    “About SCSI” (appendices p.5). Creating an Audio CD You can create your own audio CD by writing sound data that from two specified tracks on the VS-880EX to a CD-R disc. The VS-880EX first creates a CD-R image data file on its internal IDE hard disk, then writes that image data to the CD-R disc.

  • Page 109: Writing Songs To Cd-R Discs

    Range The two tracks designated by the VS-880EX for writ- ing to the CD-R disc are written from the beginning of the tracks (normally “00h00m00s00”) to the end (song end). Thus, any blank space on the tracks before or after the actual performance results in wasted space on the CD-R disc.

  • Page 110: Auditioning (Test Listening) Songs Written To Cds (Cd Player Function)

    [YES.] Writing to the CD-R disc begins. If you do not agree to the terms, press [NO]. The VS-880EX just returns to the condition at Step 2. If “Not 44.1k Song!” Appears in the Display The sample rate is not 44.1 kHz, so the song can-...

  • Page 111: Writing Additional Songs To The Disc

    [PLAY] or [NEXT] before you hear sound. * Transport control buttons are used in controlling the CD control. They are not controls for the VS-880EX’s songs. Furthermore, the content of the CD currently listened to cannot be recorded by the VS-880EX.

  • Page 112: Writing The Song Data (Finalize)

    MASTER 2. Hold down [CLEAR] and press [TAP]. Writing the Song Data (Finalize) To make CD-R discs prepared with the VS-880EX playable on ordinary CD players, write a TOC (Table of Contents). This is referred to as Finalize. CD-R discs that have undergone the finalize procedure can no longer have additional material written to them.

  • Page 113: Arranging And Writing Songs And Song Data

    INPUT TRACK 7. After “--- Complete ---” appears in the display, the VS-880EX returns to conditions at Step 1. If you do not agree to the terms of the license, press [NO]. The VS-880EX returns to conditions at Step 1...

  • Page 114: Items Necessary For Cd-R Backup

    Chapter 8 Use with a CD-RW Drive Items Necessary for CD-R Backup • VS-880EX (1) • CD-RW drive (1) • Internal IDE hard disk (HDP88 series) • CD-RW (Compact Disc-ReWritable) disc Saving Songs to CD-RW Discs 1. Select the disk (internal IDE hard disk) containing the source song you want to back up as the cur- rent drive.

  • Page 115: Loading Songs From Cd-Rw Discs

    Loading Songs From CD-RW Discs 1. Select the disk (internal IDE hard disk) containing the song you want to load as the current drive. 2. Place the CD-R disc to which the song data has been backed up in the CD-RW drive. 3.

  • Page 116: Chapter 9 Use With Midi Devices

    When using MTC, you can choose whether to have the MIDI sequencer be the master that controls the VS- 880EX, or to have the VS-880EX be the master that con- trols the MIDI sequencer. In contrast, when you use MIDI Clock, whereas you can synchronize a MIDI...

  • Page 117: Synchronization With The Vs-880Ex As The Reference (Master)

    Chapter 9 Use with MIDI Devices Synchronization with the VS-880EX as the Reference (Master) When you are having the VS-880EX act to control the MIDI sequencer, use the following procedure. 1. Connect the VS-880EX and the MIDI sequencer as shown below.

  • Page 118: Synchronization With The Midi Sequencer As The Reference (Slave)

    When using MIDI sequencer software for person- al computers, then depending on the hardware specifications and the playing conditions, the MTC signal sent to the VS-880EX may be unstable. As much as possible, try to synchronize using the VS-880EX as the master.

  • Page 119: Synchronizing With An External Midi Device

    MTC received from a MIDI sequencer. 11. Press [PLAY]. The PLAY indicator blinks green, indicating that the VS-880EX is in MTC receive standby mode. When the MIDI sequencer begins playback, then playback also begins on the VS-880EX. During synchronization, the PLAY indicator are lit.

  • Page 120: Recording Midi Clock Messages

    Chapter 9 Use with MIDI Devices What is the Sync Track? In addition to the tracks for recording audio signals, the VS-880EX has a separate track for recording MIDI Clock signals. This is called the sync track. Unlike conventional multi-track recorders, it is not necessary to reserve one of the audio tracks for recording the sync signal.

  • Page 121: Using The Tempo Map (Master)

    This selects the function of the MIDI OUT/THRU con- nector. For now, select “Out.” Out: The connector transmits MIDI messages from the VS-880EX. Select this when you want to transmit metronome Note messages or mixer parameter settings (control change messages or exclusive messages).

  • Page 122: Measure (Measure)

    “9–15.” 15. When you are finished making tempo map set- tings, press [PLAY (DISPLAY)]. Return to Play condition. Synchronized Operation 1. Connect the VS-880EX and the MIDI sequencer as shown below. MIDI IN MIDI Sequencer...

  • Page 123: Various Operations Related To Synchronized Operation

    This selects the function of the MIDI OUT/THRU con- nector. For now, select “Out.” Out: The connector transmits MIDI messages from the VS-880EX. Select this when you want to transmit metronome Note messages or mixer parameter settings (control change messages or exclusive messages).
  • Page 124 Creating a Tempo Map from a Sync Track You can create a tempo map from sync track stored in the VS-880EX. This is convenient when you want to change a sync track’s MIDI Clock with the VS-880EX. 1. Press [SYSTEM] several times until “SYS ] several times until 2.

  • Page 125: Creating A Sync Track Automatically

    CV (Convert) Here you can select how the sync track / tempo map will be created. For this example, select “CV3.” CV1=Tap S.Tr: Create the sync track from mark points. CV2=Tap T.Map: Create the tempo map from mark points. CV3=S.Tr T.Map: Create the tempo map from the sync track.

  • Page 126: Use With A Midi Controller

    5. Press [PLAY (DISPLAY)]. Return to Play condition. Use with a MIDI Controller The VS-880EX can transmit its mixer settings and functions as MIDI messages. Conversely, MIDI mes- sages from an external MIDI controller can be used to control the VS-880EX’s track status and mixer settings.

  • Page 127: Switching Scenes

    5. Press [PLAY (DISPLAY)]. Return to Play condition. Use MIDI channel 15 for switching scenes. The rela- tionship between the program change number received by the VS-880EX and the Scene Number it switches to is shown below. Program Number Scene Number 1–8...

  • Page 128: Chapter 10 Use With A Dat Recorder (Dat Backup)

    DAT tapes are easily transported, this is conve- nient when you wish to exchange song data with a friend who also has a VS-880EX, or when you have a VS-880EX both at home and in the studio. We recom- mend that important data be backed up onto multiple tapes.

  • Page 129: Saving Song Data To A Dat Recorder (Backup)

    Saving Song Data to a DAT Recorder (Backup) Use the following procedure to back up the song data on the current drive. 1. Connect the VS-880EX and the DAT recorder as shown below. Optical Digtal In DAT Recorder Coaxial Digital In...
  • Page 130 (NO)]. This cancels the process, even if done during the backup itself. However, the song data recorded up to that point cannot be loaded into the VS-880EX. 19. If you cannot back up everything on one tape, the The backup procedure continues in this fashion. At this time, we recommend that you write the tape num- bers on the labels in the order they are backed up.

  • Page 131: Loading Performance Data From A Dat Recorder (Recover)

    * You can recover VS-880 song data backed up using DAT backup. For more detailed information, please see “Compatibility” (p. 136). 1. Connect the DAT recorder to the VS-880EX as fol- lowing. Optical Digtal Out...

  • Page 132: When Canceling The Recover Operation

    * Loud noises may damage your audio equipment such as amplifier and speakers. Please make sure to turn down the headphones level and master volume of the VS-880EX when you check errors in the song data. Canceling a DAT Recovery Operation in Progress 1.

  • Page 133: Checking Names Of Saved Performance Data (Name)

    In contrast, with the Name procedure, only the song data that you spec- ify is loaded. 1. Connect the DAT recorder to the VS-880EX as fol- lowing. Optical Digtal Out...

  • Page 134: Checking The Recording Condition Of Saved Performance Data (Verify)

    * When performing DAT backups, in order to confirm that the data indeed has been properly backed up, we recom- mend that you carry out the Verify procedure as well. 1. Connect the DAT recorder to the VS-880EX as fol- MASTER lowing.
  • Page 135 7. “D.IN Sel =” appears in the display. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. D.IN Sel (Digital In Select) Select either “DIGIN1” (coaxial) or “DIGIN2” (optical) if you are going to recover data using the VS-880EX’s DIGITAL IN connector. 8. Press PARAMETER [ ] thrice.

  • Page 136: Vs-1680 Vs-880Ex

    When internal hard disks that have been used by a VS- 880EX are installed in the VS-880, or when Zip disks that have been used by a VS-880EX are inserted into a Zip drive connected to the VS-880, they are recognized as the initialization disk.

  • Page 137: Vs-840 Vs-880Ex

    VS-840 is inserted in a Zip drive connected to the VS- 880EX, it is recognized as an uninitialized disk. When a Zip disk used by a VS-880EX is inserted in a Zip drive connected to the VS-840, it is recognized as an uninitialized disk.

  • Page 138: Converting Vs-880Ex Song Data For Use With The Vs-880 (Song Export)

    Song Export cannot be carried out. MASTER Here we will explain the procedure of converting a VS-880EX song for use by the VS-880, and saving it in playable format to a Zip disk. 1. Make settings as shown below. MASTER 2.
  • Page 139 4. Press [SONG] several times until “Song Export ?” appears in the display. 5. Press [YES]. 6. “Dest. Drv=” (the save destination drive) appears in the display. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to select the drive on which you wish to save the converted song data.

  • Page 140: Chapter 12 Other Convenient Functions

    Chapter 12 Other Convenient Functions Previewing Techniques (Preview) When editing a song, you will likely want to find pre- cise points in the song, for example the point where sound begins or where the climax begins, when using Auto Punch-In Recording, and in other editing situa- tions.

  • Page 141: Using [Scrub]

    Using [SCRUB] This function is used to repeat playback of the song before and after a designated point on a selected track for a more precisely specified length of time (25–100 msec). Press [SCRUB] while the song is stopped. The button indicator lights, and the specified section is played back repeatedly.

  • Page 142: Recalling A Specific Location (Jump)

    Play condition. Recording Mixer Settings (Auto Mix) With the VS-880EX, you can record the present status or condition of the mixer as a Scene. Unlike with Scenes, you can alternatively store information at spe- cific times during playback to markers. Referred to as Auto Mix, this includes the mixer settings, time-based channel fader movements, and other settings.

  • Page 143: Preparations For Auto Mix

    Preparations for Auto Mix Press [AUTOMIX]. The button indicator lights, indi- cating that Mix mode is on. At this time, while holding down the [AUTOMIX] but- ton once more, each time the each channel SELECT button or [EZ ROUTING] (Master Block) is pressed, the status Indicator off: Auto Mix is disabled.

  • Page 144: Recording The Mixer Settings, Method 2 (Gradation)

    Chapter 12 Other Convenient Functions Recording the Mixer Settings, Method 2 (Gradation) This creates an auto mix that smoothly connects Snapshots recorded in two adjacent markers. This method is called Gradation. For example, this is convenient when you wish to specify the length of a fade-in or fade-out.

  • Page 145: If You Don't Want To Record Fader Settings (Mask Fader)

    7. Press [PLAY] to begin playback. 8. Operate the channel faders, master fader, and PAN knobs on the top panel. Auto mix data will be recorded only for those chan- nels that are modified. 9. When the mix is finished, press [STOP]. markers will be automatically created in the area which was played back.

  • Page 146: Disabling Auto Mix On All Channels

    Return to Play condition. Undoing Recordings and Edits (Undo) When using the VS-880EX, recordings may not sound as you intend, settings for editing may be made incor- rectly, or there may be other situations where you ] several times until want to go back and try something again.

  • Page 147: Recording And Editing Operations Which Can Be Undone (Undo)

    However if you once again record (step 3’) after returning to the condition of recording number 2, the recordings 3–5 that were canceled by the Undo opera- tion will be lost. This means that if after step 3’ you use the Undo operation to return to the previous step, you will return to the condition of step 2.

  • Page 148: Listening Only To A Specific Channel (Solo/Mute)

    Chapter 12 Other Convenient Functions 4. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. For now select “Off.” UNDO MSG (UNDO message) This selects whether or not the Undo confirmation message is displayed. The message is displayed, asking how many levels you want to undo. Off: The message is not displayed, and only the immediately preceding operation is undone.

  • Page 149: Simultaneously Adjusting A Stereo Source (Channel Link)

    Simultaneously Adjusting a Stereo Source (Channel Link) When recording or playing back a stereo source, nor- mal mixer operations require you to control the left and right channels separately, which can make it inconvenient to adjust equalizer, effects, and other set- tings.

  • Page 150: Adjusting The Pan

    Chapter 12 Other Convenient Functions 6. Press [CH EDIT (SELECT)] for the other channel. 7. Repeat steps 2–5 to make the same settings for the other channel. 8. Press PARAMETER [ “Ofs Level =” appears in the display. 9. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. Ofs Level (Offset Level) Adjust the overall volume level (0–127) while main- taining the volume balance of the two channels.

  • Page 151: Linking Only The Faders (Fader Link)

    8. Press PARAMETER [ “Ofs Bal =” appears in the display. 9. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. Ofs Bal (Offset Balance) Adjust the overall left/right level (L63–0–R63) while maintaining the panning of both channels. This will operate linked with the pan knob of the odd-num- bered channel.

  • Page 152: Mixing In A Stereo Source (Stereo In)

    Chapter 12 Other Convenient Functions Mixing In a Stereo Source (Stereo In) You can assign input signals from the INPUT jacks or DIGITAL IN connector to the MIX bus or RECORD- ING bus, without having them pass through the input mixer.

  • Page 153: Record/Playback Tracks When Using Vari-Pitch

    Record/Playback Tracks When Using Vari-Pitch When vari-pitch is on, the number of tracks which can be simultaneously recorded/played back may be lim- ited, depending on the range of pitch change. Directly Inputting Numeric Characters When modifying the time locations of a locator or punch-in point, you can use the LOCATOR buttons as numeric keys to input numbers directly.

  • Page 154: Sounding The Metronome

    No matter how accurately one tries to play, listening to the recording play back sometimes reveals inaccura- cies in rhythm or tempo. The VS-880EX provides a metronome (click track) that can be sounded at a spec- ified tempo. By listening to the metronome as you play your instrument, you will be able to record your per- formance with more accurate timing.

  • Page 155: Using An External Midi Sound Source To Play The Metronome

    A MIDI sound source can be used to play the metronome with a sound of your choosing. To do this, use the following procedure. 1. Connect the VS-880EX and the MIDI sound gener- ator as shown below. VOLUME MIDI IN B...

  • Page 156: When The Disk Has Little Remaining Space

    Chapter 12 Other Convenient Functions 16. Press PARAMETER [ “Acc.Note” appears in the display. 17. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. Acc.Note (Accent Note) This sets note numbers (C0–G9) for the downbeat. When the Drum set is playing, this selects specific per- cussion sounds.

  • Page 157: Deleting One Song Of Performance Data (Song Erase)

    Deleting One Song of Performance Data (Song Erase) When you are making a master tape or backing up songs to a Zip disk, this operation deletes song data that has become unnecessary. This operation cannot be undone with the Undo function. 1.

  • Page 158: When Using Balanced Inputs

    Return to Play condition. Determining Output MASTER The VS-880EX features four analog output jacks (MAS- TER jacks L/R, AUX jacksL/R) and two digital con- nectors (DIGITAL OUT1, DIGITAL OUT2), each of which can have various signals assigned to it. Set the output for each output jacks or connectors using the following procedure.

  • Page 159: Aux Jacks

    5. “MasterLevel=” appears in the display. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to adjust the volume of the sound that is output from the MASTER jacks. This value is linked with master fader on the top panel. 6. Press PARAMETER [ 7. “Master Bal=” appears in the display. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to adjust the left/right balance of the sound that is output from the MASTER jacks.

  • Page 160: Direct Out

    Chapter 12 Other Convenient Functions DIRECT OUT The sounds from each of the Tracks 1–4 or Tracks 5–8 are output from separate analog jacks. 1. Hold down [SHIFT] and press [EDIT (FADER)]. 2. Press PARAMETER [ OUT=” appears in the display. 3.
  • Page 161 For example, the VS-880EX is designed to use disks with 512 bytes/sector. When the VS-880EX manages song data, it handles 64 sectors as a sin- gle unit (cluster).
  • Page 162 An error in which clusters not included in any song are detected as containing valid data. In this case, the VS-880EX will not store data in those clusters. A situation which causes this error to occur is called a loose area.

  • Page 163: Chapter 13 Making Global Settings And Checking Conditions

    Chapter 13 Making Global Settings and Checking Conditions This section describes the settings that affect the over- all functioning of the VS-880EX. Switching the Display Content In Play condition, you can hold down [SHIFT] and press [DISPLAY (PLAY)] to switch the contents of the bar display.

  • Page 164: Checking The Size Of A Recorded Performance

    Chapter 13 Making Global Settings and Checking Conditions Checking the Size of a Recorded Performance You can see the Song Name, Song Number, Sample Rate, Recording Mode, and the actual used capacity of the current song by the following operation. 1.

  • Page 165: Checking The Remaining Disk Space

    Chapter 13 Making Global Settings and Checking Conditions When Using the Foot Switch With an optional foot switch (such as the Roland DP-2 or BOSS FU-5U) connected to the FOOT SWITCH jack, you can choose how the foot switch functions.

  • Page 166: Overall Settings For The Vs-880Ex

    VS-880EX just as though you were operating a MIDI sequencer. Set the metronome to sound as described in “Sounding the Metronome” (p. 154).

  • Page 167: Adjusting The Button Sensitivity

    SCSI connector. In such instances, it takes approximately 30 seconds after the power is turned on of the VS-880EX to check its internal hard disk connection status. To avoid this wait, you can preset the VS-880EX not to attempt to use the internal hard disk.

  • Page 168: Changing At The Level At Which The Peak Indicator Lights

    3. Press PARAMETER [ 4. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. Record Mon (Record Monitor) This switches between track and source monitoring. AUTO: SOURCE: This sets the VS-880EX to monitor the AUTO SOURCE SOURCE SOURCE 5. Press [PLAY (DISPLAY)]. Return to Play condition.

  • Page 169: If Noise Between Segments Is Obtrusive

    In the seams or breaks that occur when recording is begun or ended or when a phrase is copied, obtrusive noise may occur. The VS-880EX fades-in and fades-out these breaks so that this noise will not be heard. If objectionable noise occurs, you can adjust the length of the fade-in and fade-out.

  • Page 170: Chapter 14 Takein Advantages Of The Vs-880Ex (Idea And Examples)

    Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) Along with the functions or external devices explained in earlier chapters, this chapter explains some actual ways and gives some tips in which the VS-880EX can be used effectively. First press [PLAY (DISPLAY)], and begin each operation from Play condition.
  • Page 171 Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) 4. Press PARAMETER [ “SYS MID:MIDIThr=” appears in the display. 5. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. MIDIThr (MIDI Thru Switch) This switches the function of the MIDI OUT/THRU connector. For now, set this to “Out.”...

  • Page 172: Settings For The Slave Vs-880Ex

    Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) Settings for the Slave VS-880EX 1. Press [SYSTEM] several times until “SYS MIDI PRM ?” appears in the display. 2. Press [YES]. “SYS MID:DeviceID=” appears in the display. 3. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial.

  • Page 173: Synchronizing With Cakewalk Pro Audio (Mmc)

    MMC (Appendices p. 124) * Some MIDI devices are not compatible with the MMC used by the VS-880EX. If you are using such a device, the VS-880EX cannot be operated in the manner described in this Owner’s Manual.

  • Page 174: Settings For The Vs-880Ex

    Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) Settings for the VS-880EX 1. Press [SYSTEM] several times until “SYS MIDI PRM ?” appears in the display. 2. Press [YES]. 3. Press PARAMETER [ “SYS MID:MIDIThr=” appears in the display.

  • Page 175: Settings For Cakewalk Pro Audio

    Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) 16. Press PARAMETER [ ] several times until “SYS Syn:MTC Type=” appears in the display. 17. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. MTC Type (MTC Type) This selects the type of MTC (30, 29N, 29D, 25, or 24).
  • Page 176 Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) Digital Connections Cannot Be Used When Sync Source is set to “EXT,” the VS-880EX operates according to the Clock signal (MTC) transmitted by the connected MIDI device. At such times, if you also set the master Clock to “DIGIN1”...

  • Page 177: Making Digital Connections With Cakewalk

    Cakewalk and your VS-880EX digitally. This is convenient when, for example, you want to record the audio tracks from the VS-880EX to Cakewalk via a digital connection, edit the material in Cakewalk, and then send it back via the digital connection to the VS-880EX for mixdown.
  • Page 178 1. Make the connections as shown below. coaxial or optical 2. Follow the procedure as described in “Settings for the VS-880EX” (p. 195) and “Settings for Cakewalk Pro Audio” (p. 196), set up the system so that the VS-880EX and Cakewalk are synchronized.
  • Page 179 DIGITAL coaxial or optical DIGITAL 2. Follow the procedure as described in “Settings for the VS-880EX” (p. 195) and “Settings for Cakewalk Pro Audio” (p. 196), set up the system so that the VS-880EX and Cakewalk are synchronized. 3. Make the settings to Cakewalk as shown below. For more detailed informa- tion, please refer to your Cakewalk owner’s manual.

  • Page 180: Using An External Midi Device To Adjust The Mixer (Compu Mix)

    Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) Master Clock This is used to select the reference clock for the VS-880EX operations. Here, set this to “DIGIN1” or “DIGIN2.” DIGIN1: Based on the digital signal received at the DIGITAL IN connector...

  • Page 181: The Correspondence Between Midi Channels And Controller Numbers

    Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) The Correspondence Between MIDI Channels and Controller Numbers MIDI channels correspond to the mixer channels as shown below. For channel pairs linked with the Stereo Link function, Control Change messages can be exchanged using the odd-numbered channel’s MIDI...

  • Page 182: Preparations For Compu Mix

    Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) Preparations for Compu Mix 1. Make the connections as shown below. MIDI OUT MIDI Sequencer 2. Press [SYSTEM] several times until “SYS MIDI PRM ?” appears in the display. 3. Press [YES].

  • Page 183: Recording With Compu Mix

    Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) Recording with Compu Mix 1. Prepare the VS-880EX’s mixer settings (faders, pan, etc.) and ready for playback the song. 2. Put the MIDI sequencer in Record mode, and begin playback with the VS-880EX.

  • Page 184: Synchronizing With Video Equipment

    4. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. SysEx.Rx. (System Exclusive Receive Switch) Exclusive messages are received when this is set to “On.” At this time, set this to “On.” The Exclusive messages can be received when the VS-880EX is in Play condition. 5. Press PARAMETER [ “SYS MID:MMC=”...

  • Page 185: Using External Effects Devices

    Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) 8. Press [YES]. 9. Press PARAMETER [ ] several times until “SYS Syn:ErrLevel=” appears in the display. 10. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. ErrLevel (Error Level) This sets the interval (0–10) for checking MTC receiv- ing status when synchronize VS-880EX with MTC from an external MIDI device.
  • Page 186 Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) 6. Hold down [SHIFT] and press the channel 6 [AUX Send (CH EDIT)]. “AUX Sw=” appears in the display. 7. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial. AUX Sw (AUX Switch) This sets how the signal is sent to the AUX bus. Here, select “Off.”...
  • Page 187 Index Index (words) Automix ...142 CD player...55, 110 CD player function...110 CD-R backup ...113 CD-R disc...107 CD-R recover...115 Channel ...22 Channel fader...15, 28 Channel Link...43, 149 Coaxial ...19, 55, 128 Compu-mix ...180 Control change message...127 Current drive...21 Current song ...22 DAT ...63, 128 DAT backup ...129 DAT name ...133...
  • Page 188 Index Random access...28 Realtime ...144 Recording bus ...25 Recording mode...40 S/P DIF ...19, 55 SCMS ...6 SCSI ...99 SMPTE time code ...36 Sample rate ...40, 108 Scene...73, 127 Scrub...141 Send/Return ...31, 68 Sequential access ...28 Shelving type (Equalizer) ...58 Shutdown ...33 Slave ...118, 172 Snapshot...143 Solo function ...148...
  • Page 189 Index MEMO...
  • Page 190 Information When you need repair service, call your nearest Roland Service Center or authorized Roland distributor in your country as shown below. SINGAPORE AFRICA AFRICA Swee Lee Company 150 Sims Drive, EGYPT SINGAPORE 387381 TEL: 748-1669 Al Fanny Trading Office P.O.
  • Page 191 This product complies with the requirements of European Directives EMC 89/336/EEC and LVD 73/23/EEC. FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.

  • Page 192: Concerning Copyright

    Disclaimer of liability Roland will take no responsibility for any “direct damages,” “consequential dam- ages,” or “any other damages” which may result from your use of the VS-880EX. These damages may include but are not limited to the following events which can occur when using the VS-880EX.

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