Owner???s Manual

Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the Roland VB-99.

201a

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: ???USING THE UNIT SAFELY??? (p. 2???3), and ???IMPORTANT NOTES??? (p. 4???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, Owner???s manual should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a conve- nient reference.

202

Copyright ?? 2008 ROLAND CORPORATION

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION.

Roland Website http://www.roland.com/

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of death or severe injury should the unit be used improperly.

Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of injury or material damage should the unit be used improperly.

* Material damage refers to damage or other adverse effects caused with respect to the home and all its furnishings, as well to domestic animals or pets.

The symbol alerts the user to important instructions or warnings.The specific meaning of the symbol is determined by the design contained within the triangle. In the case of the symbol at left, it is used for general cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.

The symbol alerts the user to items that must never be carried out (are forbidden). The specific thing that must not be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the unit must never be disassembled.

The ??? symbol alerts the user to things that must be carried out. The specific thing that must be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the power- cord plug must be unplugged from the outlet.

002c

??? Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its AC adaptor.

...........................................................................................................

003

???Do not attempt to repair the unit, or replace parts within it (except when this manual provides specific instructions directing you to do so). Refer all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland

distributor, as listed on the ???Information??? page.

...........................................................................................................

004

??? Never install the unit in any of the following locations.

??? Subject to temperature extremes (e.g., direct sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating duct, on top of heat-generating equipment); or are

???Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors); or are

???Exposed to steam or smoke; or are

???Subject to salt exposure; or are

???Humid; or are

???Exposed to rain; or are

???Dusty or sandy; or are

???Subject to high levels of vibration and shakiness.

...........................................................................................................

005

???This unit should be used only with a rack-mount adaptor (RAD-99) or stand (PDS-10) that is

recommended by Roland. (p. 93)

...........................................................................................................

006

???When using the unit with a stand (PDS-10) recom- mended by Roland, the stand must be carefully placed so it is level and sure to remain stable. If

not using a stand, you still need to make sure that any location you choose for placing the unit provides a level surface that will properly support the unit, and keep it from wobbling.

...........................................................................................................

008c

???Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with the unit. Also, make sure the line voltage at the installation matches the input voltage specified on the AC adaptor???s body. Other AC adaptors may use a different polarity, or be designed for a

different voltage, so their use could result in damage, malfunction, or electric shock.

..........................................................................................................

008d

???Connect only the specified device (FC-300) to the RRC2 IN connector (which provide a supply of

power).

..........................................................................................................

008e

???Use only the attached power-supply cord. Also, the supplied power cord must not be used with

any other device.

..........................................................................................................

009

???Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord, nor place heavy objects on it. Doing so can damage the cord, producing severed elements

and short circuits. Damaged cords are fire and shock hazards!

..........................................................................................................

010

???This unit, either alone or in combination with an amplifier and headphones or speakers, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for a long period of time at a high volume level, or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should

immediately stop using the unit, and consult an audiologist.

..........................................................................................................

011

???Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable material, coins, pins); or liquids of any kind (water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate the unit.

..........................................................................................................

2

012b

???Immediately turn the power off, remove the AC adaptor from the outlet, and request servicing by your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the ???Information??? page when:

???The AC adaptor, the power-supply cord, or the plug has been damaged; or

???If smoke or unusual odor occurs

???Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been spilled onto the unit; or

???The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise has become wet); or

???The unit does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance.

..........................................................................................................

013

???In households with small children, an adult should provide supervision until the child is

capable of following all the rules essential for the safe operation of the unit.

..........................................................................................................

014

???Protect the unit from strong impact. (Do not drop it!)

..........................................................................................................

015

???Do not force the unit???s power-supply cord to share an outlet with an unreasonable number of other devices. Be especially careful when using extension cords???the total power used by all devices you have connected to the extension

cord???s outlet must never exceed the power rating (watts/amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive loads can cause the insulation on the cord to heat up and eventually melt through.

..........................................................................................................

016

??? Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the ???Information??? page.

..........................................................................................................

023

???DO NOT play a CD-ROM disc on a conventional audio CD player. The resulting sound may be of a

level that could cause permanent hearing loss. Damage to speakers or other system components may result.

..........................................................................................................

101b

???The unit and the AC adaptor should be located so their location or position does not interfere with their proper ventilation.

..........................................................................................................

101c

???This VB-99 for use only with Roland rack-mount adaptor RAD-99 or Stand PDS-10. Use with other rack-mount adaptors or stands are capable of resulting in instability causing possible injury.

..........................................................................................................

102c

???Always grasp only the plug on the AC adaptor cord when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.

..........................................................................................................

101f

???Please be sure to read and adhere to the cautionary notices contained in the instructions that came with this product.

Please note that, depending on the manner in

which performances are carried out, you may encounter situations where the unit falls off the stand or the stand topples over, even though you have followed all of the instructions and advice contained within the product???s manual. For this reason, you should always perform a

safety check each time you use the stand.

..........................................................................................................

103b

???At regular intervals, you should unplug the AC adaptor and clean it by using a dry cloth to wipe all dust and other accumulations away from its prongs. Also, disconnect the power plug from the power outlet whenever the unit is to remain unused for an extended period of time. Any accumulation of dust between the power plug

and the power outlet can result in poor insulation and lead to fire.

..........................................................................................................

104

???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.

..........................................................................................................

106

???Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on the unit.

..........................................................................................................

107c

??? Never handle the AC adaptor or its plugs with

wet hands when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.

..........................................................................................................

108d: Selection

???If you need to move the instrument, take note of the precautions listed below. It should be handled carefully, all the while keeping it level. Make sure to have a firm grip, to protect yourself from injury

and the instrument from damage.

1

???Check to make sure the screws or the attached knob bolts securing the unit to the stand have not become loose. Fasten them again securely whenever you notice any loosening.

2

??? Disconnect the power cord.

3

??? Disconnect all cords coming from external devices.

..........................................................................................................

109b

??? Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and unplug the AC adaptor from the outlet (p. 25).

..........................................................................................................

110b

??? Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in your area, disconnect the AC adaptor from the outlet.

..........................................................................................................

118c

???Keep any screws you may remove and the included knob bolts in a safe place out of

children???s reach, so there is no chance of them being swallowed accidentally ( p. 93, p. 94).

..........................................................................................................

3

IMPORTANT NOTES

Power Supply

301

???Do not connect this unit to same electrical outlet that is being used by an electrical appliance that is controlled by an inverter (such as a refrigerator, washing machine, microwave oven, or air conditioner), or that contains a motor. Depending on the way in which the electrical appliance is used, power supply noise may cause this unit to malfunction or may produce audible noise. If it is not practical to use a separate electrical outlet, connect a power supply noise filter between this unit and the

electrical outlet.

302

???The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long hours of consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a

cause for concern.

307

???Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn off the power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions and/or damage to speakers or other devices.

Placement

351

???Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other equipment containing large power transformers) may induce hum. To alleviate the problem, change the orientation of this unit; or move it farther away from the source of inter-

ference.

352a

???This device may interfere with radio and television reception. Do not use this device in the vicinity of such

receivers.

352b

???Noise may be produced if wireless communications devices, such as cell phones, are operated in the vicinity of this unit. Such noise could occur when receiving or initi- ating a call, or while conversing. Should you experience such problems, you should relocate such wireless devices so they are at a greater distance from this unit, or switch

them off.

354a

???Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed vehicle, or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes.

Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.

355b

???When moved from one location to another where the temperature and/or humidity is very different, water droplets (condensation) may form inside the unit. Damage or malfunction may result if you attempt to use the unit in this condition. Therefore, before using the unit, you must allow it to stand for several hours, until the condensation

has completely evaporated.

360

???Depending on the material and temperature of the surface on which you place the unit, its rubber feet may discolor or mar the surface.

You can place a piece of felt or cloth under the rubber feet to prevent this from happening. If you do so, please make sure that the unit will not slip or move accidentally.

Maintenance

401a

???For everyday cleaning wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth or one that has been slightly dampened with water. To remove stubborn dirt, use a cloth impregnated with a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Afterwards, be sure to wipe

the unit thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.

402

???Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or deformation.

Repairs and Data

452

???Please be aware that all data contained in the unit???s memory may be lost when the unit is sent for repairs. Important data should always be backed up in another MIDI device (e.g., a sequencer), or written down on paper (when possible). During repairs, due care is taken to avoid the loss of data. However, in certain cases (such as when circuitry related to memory itself is out of order), we regret that it may not be possible to restore the data, and Roland assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.

Additional Precautions

551

???Please be aware that the contents of memory can be irretrievably lost as a result of a malfunction, or the improper operation of the unit. To protect yourself against the risk of loosing important data, we recommend that you periodically save a backup copy of important data you have stored in the unit???s memory in another MIDI

device (e.g., a sequencer).

552

???Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents of data that was stored in the unit???s memory once it has been lost. Roland Corporation assumes no liability

concerning such loss of data.

553

???Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unit???s buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks

and connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.

554

??? Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.

556

???When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the connector itself???never pull on the cable. This way you will avoid causing shorts, or damage to the cable???s

internal elements.

558a

???To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the unit???s volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about

those around you (especially when it is late at night).

559a

???When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box (including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise, you will need to use equivalent packaging materials.

4

561

???Use only the specified expression pedal (Roland EV-5, BOSS FV-500L/500H with a connection cable (stereo 1/4??? phone ??? stereo 1/4??? phone); sold separately). By connecting any other expression pedals, you risk causing

malfunction and/or damage to the unit.

562

???Some connection cables contain resistors. Do not use cables that incorporate resistors for connecting to this unit. The use of such cables can cause the sound level to be extremely low, or impossible to hear. For information on

cable specifications, contact the manufacturer of the cable.

563

???Use of the included CD-ROM for rental, lease, or the like without the permission of the copyright owner is prohibited. Unauthorized copying is also prohibited by

law.

566b

???The sensitivity of the D Beam controller will change depending on the amount of light in the vicinity of the unit. If it does not function as you expect, adjust the sensi-

tivity as appropriate for the brightness of your location.

801

???Avoid touching or scratching the shiny underside (encoded surface) of the disc. Damaged or dirty CD-ROM discs may not be read properly. Keep your discs clean using a commercially available CD cleaner.

IMPORTANT NOTES

Printing Conventions and icons in This Manual

(p.**)

5

Contents

6

Contents

7

Contents

8

Contents

9

Contents

Checking the Package Contents

The VB-99 comes with the following items. After opening the package, please check all items. If any items are missing, please contact the

retailer from whom this product was purchased.

??? RRC2 cable

??? AC adaptor (PSB-1U)

??? Owner???s Manual (this manual)

10

Main Features

Ultimate bass modeling system provides unlimited possibilities in creating sounds

The VB-99 is the culmination of Roland???s COSM technology-based bass modeling systems. Featuring advanced software supported by the very latest custom DSP chips, the instrument also offers a large- sized high-contrast LCD, top-quality AD/DA converters, balanced XLR output connectors, digital output connectors, USB connector, and other features that all add up to a truly pro-spec system.

About COSM

(Composite Object Sound Modeling)

Composite Object Sound Modeling???or ???COSM??? for short???is BOSS/Roland???s innovative and powerful technology that???s used to digitally recreate the sound of classic musical instruments and effects. COSM analyzes the many factors that make up the original sound???including its electrical and physical characteristics???and creates a digital model that accurately reproduces the original.

Two complete sound creation systems

The VB-99 features two separate bass and COSM amp systems. You can use two different types of modeled basses simultaneously and create different amp sounds to use with each bass. What???s more, the VB-99 comes equipped with two effects systems featuring a huge selection of BOSS effects, including COSM effects. This all enables you to achieve the perfect processing for each individual bass.

Equipped with D Beam, ribbon, and other new realtime controllers

The VB-99 now enables new and heretofore unimaginable forms of musical expression, including new ways of using the bass???s neck and your hands. Of course, you can still connect expression pedals and control switches as well, just as with previous V-Bass systems.

Console style accommodates a variety of usage environments

The VB-99 can be set up in a number of different ways to suit the needs of the user???as a desktop unit for recording or when using computer input, attached to its stand (optional) and set up right by the performer, or placed in a rack with the (optional) rack mount adaptor.

Combine with the FC-300 to create the perfect live system

Connecting a Roland FC-300 MIDI Foot Controller (optional) to the VB-99 allows you to switch tones and carry out other tasks using the FC-300???s multiple foot pedals for easy hands-free operation. These units also feature an RRC2 connector, allowing you to connect the VB-99 and FC-300 with a single cable. This RRC2 function enables two-way communications between the devices, while further acting as a power supply to the FC-300, thus reducing the number of cables used to connect the devices.

Includes pitch/MIDI conversion function

The VB-99 can convert and output bass performance data as MIDI information, allowing you to connect a synthesizer sound module or similar device and use the setup as a bass synthesizer.

Features V-LINK function

This function enables you to use performance data and pedal operations in controlling video.

V-LINK

V-LINK is a function that allows music and images to be performed together. By using MIDI to connect two or more V- LINK compatible devices, you can easily enjoy a wide range of visual effects that are linked to the expressive elements of a music performance.

11

Names of Things and What They Do

Top Panel

fig.00-020

1.D BEAM

Switches the D Beam on and off. You can add a variety of effects to your sounds by moving your hand or the bass neck within the range of the beam. (p. 71)

???PITCH Button

In addition to changing the pitch of the bass, this can be used for the Freeze function, which continuously holds the bass???s tone. (p. 73)

???FILTER Button

This changes the bass???s tone. (p. 75)

???ASSIGNABLE Button

Use this to assign different parameters and functions to the D Beam and change the tone in real time. (p. 77)

2.LCD

Various information regarding the VB-99 is indicated here.

3.PATCH/VALUE Dial

Used to switch patches and change settings values.

4.CATEGORY Button

Used to select and change categories. (p. 85)

5.FUNCTION Knob F1???F6

Changes the value of the setting for the parameter indicated in the LCD.

22

6.FUNCTION Buttons F1???F6

Used to select the parameters indicated in the LCD.

7.BASS DIRECT Button

This outputs only the normal pickup sound. (p. 27)

8.COSM BASS Buttons

These set the COSM bass type and tone. (p. 26)

9.POLY FX (Poly Effects) Buttons

These set the poly effects. (p. 28)

10. FX (Effects) Buttons

These set the effects. (p. 28)

11. COSM AMP Buttons

Used to make settings for the COSM amp. (p. 27)

12. MIXER Buttons

Used to make settings for the mixer. (p. 31)

13. DELAY/REVERB Button

Used to make settings for the mixer section???s delay and reverb. (p. 32)

14. DYNAMIC Button

Used for setting the dynamics. (p. 32)

12

Names of Things and What They Do

15. BALANCE Knob

Sets the mix balance. (p. 32)

16. CHAIN Button

Used to make settings for the effect and COSM bass/COSM amp connection sequence. (p. 31)

17. CONTROL ASSIGN Button

This sets the functions assigned to pedals and switches. (p. 76)

18. NAME/KEY/BPM Button

Used to specify patch names (p. 34) and the tempo and key (p.

29) for songs to be played.

19.V-BASS LEVEL Knob

Adjusts the volume of a patch. (p. 33)

20. V-LINK Button

This switches the V-LINK function on and off. (p. 90)

21. DIRECT PATCH Buttons

Use these to directly call up the patches you have assigned to them. (p. 81)

22. CONTROL Buttons

You can assign and control a variety of different functions with these buttons. (p. 77)

23. EXIT Button

Used to return previous screens and to undo operations.

24. WRITE Button

Use for storing settings in patches and executing operations. (p. 34) (p. 82)

25. PAGE Buttons

This switches the screens displayed in the LCD.

26. BASS TO MIDI Button

This sets the BASS TO MIDI function (the function that converts what is played on the bass into MIDI signals). (p. 58)

27. SYSTEM Button

Used for making settings related to the VB-99???s operating environment. (p. 35)

28. GLOBAL Button

This sets the GLOBAL function (which affects the tone of all patches). (p. 40)

29. TUNER Button

This turns the tuning function on. (p. 23)

30. RIBBON CONTROLLER

This allows you to change the tone by sliding your finger along the ribbon.

You can switch a variety of effects on and off directly with the three buttons. (p. 73)

???PITCH Button

Changes the bass???s pitch. (p. 74)

???FILTER Button

Alters the brightness of the sound. (p. 75)

???ASSIGNABLE Button

Use this to assign different parameters and functions to the ribbon controller and change the tone in real time. (p. 77)

31.GK IN Connector

Connect the GK cable here.

32. POWER Switch

Switches the power on and off. (p. 19) (p. 25)

33. OUTPUT LEVEL Knob

This adjusts the volume level for the MAIN OUT jacks and headphone jack.

About the Illumination of Buttons

When a button is lit, it indicates that the function for

that button is switched on.

*The corresponding DIRECT PATCH button (1???5) lights when a Direct Patch (1???5) is selected.

13

Names of Things and What They Do

Rear Panel

fig.00-030

1

1.Security Slot ( )

988

Connect a commercially available anti-theft security cable here.

http://www.kensington.com/

2.BASS INPUT Jack

Use this jack when directly inputting a normal bass.

3.BASS OUTPUT Jack

This outputs sounds from normal basses connected to a GK- 3B and unaltered signals from the BASS INPUT jack.

4.SUB OUT Connectors L, R

These balanced output jacks use XLR type connectors.

*The SUB OUT L and R connectors are unaffected by the OUTPUT LEVEL knob settings; output is constant at a fixed output level (+4 dBu).

5.GND LIFT Switch

You can disconnect the SUB OUT connectors??? No. 1 pin from the VB-99???s ground.

Normally, this is set to GND. Switch to LIFT if a ground loop or similar problem is causing the output of hum or noise.

6.MAIN OUT Jacks L/MONO, R

These are unbalanced phone jack outputs. Use these to connect to amps, mixers, and similar equipment.

7.PHONES Jack

Connect headphones here.

8.DIGITAL OUT Connector

Digital audio signals are output here. (p. 33)

9.EXP PEDAL (EXPRESSION PEDAL) Jack

Connect an optional expression pedal (such as a Roland EV-5) here. (p. 17)

*The VB-99 is set at the factory so that the pedal is automatically enabled to function as a foot volume.

10. CTL3,4 (CONTROL 3,4) Jack

An optional footswitch (such as an FS-6) can be connected here. (p. 17)

*The patch up/down function is assigned to this jack at the factory.

11. USB Connector

Use a USB cable to connect a computer to this connector and enable exchange of data between the VB-99 and the computer. (p. 65)

12. RRC2 IN Connector

Accepts connection of an FC-300 (optional).

This connector supplies power to the FC-300 and provides for two-way communications with it. (p. 46)

*The RRC2 IN connector is for use exclusively with the FC-300. It cannot be used with other devices.

13. MIDI OUT, IN Connector

Connect an external MIDI device here to transmit and receive MIDI messages to and from the device. (p. 52)

14. DC IN (AC Adaptor) Jack

Connect the included AC adaptor here.

To prevent damaging the VB-99, please be sure not to use any AC adaptor other than the one included with the VB-99.

15. Cord Hook

Fasten the AC adaptor cord using this hook to prevent the cord from being disconnected accidentally. (p. 18)

*Disconnecting the AC adaptor while the VB-99 is in use may result in corruption of important data.

14

15

Flow Signal

Do They What and Things of Names

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

Installing the Divided Pickup

First install the GK-3B divided pickup (optional) on the bass to be

used. For installation instructions, refer to the GK-3B Owner???s

Manual.

The GK-3B cannot be used with the following basses (the

pickup will not function properly even when installed).

???Basses with an unconventional string configuration, such as multi-stringed basses with seven or more strings, or double basses (acoustic string basses)

???Nylon-stringed or gut-stringed basses and basses using any non-steel strings

???Other basses whose construction does not provide adequate space to properly attach the GK-3B

About the GK-3B???s GK Volume Control

With the VB-99, you can assign various different functions to the GK-3B???s GK volume control. (p. 77)

You may not be able to control the VB-99???s volume level with the GK volume control when another parameter is assigned to the GK volume control.

About the GK-3B???s Select Switches

As the VB-99 allows you to set the balance between the COSM bass and the normal bass volume in each individual patch, we recommend that MIX be the basic function used for the select switch. Also note that if a parameter other than volume is assigned as the GK volume control function, the GK-3B???s select switch will stop functioning normally.

Before Connecting

To perform with the VB-99, first set up the following devices.

???A bass on which the GK-3B has been installed or equipped with internal GK function

???Bass amp/speaker or headphones

Performing can be made even more convenient using the following

devices:

???MIDI foot controller (Roland FC-300; optional)

???Expression pedal (Roland EV-5 or BOSS FV-500L/500H with a connection cable (stereo 1/4??? phone ??? stereo 1/4??? phone); optional)

???Pedal switch (BOSS FS-5U or FS-6; optional)

16

Making the Connections

Top Panel

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

1 Chapter

GK cable

Bass with GK-3B / GK-2B

Rear Panel

Stereo

Headphones

AC Adaptor PSB-1U

To the Power Outlet

RRC2 cable

(for Normal Bass)

Example of Connections When Using Effects Units

Example 1)

Example 2)

17

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

*The GK cable is a locking cable. When disconnecting the cable, do not pull on it with undue force, but instead release the lock and gently disconnect the cable. You can disconnect the cable simply and easily by holding down the locking portion with your finger and gently pulling on the plug.

921

*To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices, always turn down the volume, and turn off the power on all devices before making any connections.

932

*Place the AC adaptor so the side with the indicator (see illustration) faces upwards and the side with textual information faces downwards.

*The indicator will light when you plug the AC adaptor into an AC outlet.

AC Adaptor

Power Cord

AC Outlet

Indicator

924

*To prevent the inadvertent disruption of power to your unit (should the plug be pulled out accidentally), and to avoid applying undue stress to the AC adaptor jack, anchor the power cord using the cord

hook, as shown in the illustration.

fig.CordHook.e.eps

The cord of

the supplied AC Adaptor

To the Power Outlet

Cord Hook

*Wiring diagrams for CTL3, 4 jack is shown below. Make connections after first checking the wiring diagrams of other equipment you

intend to connect.

fig.XLR/TRSJack.eps

=CTL3

=CTL4

*You cannot use COSM BASS or POLY FX with signals input via

922

*This instrument is equipped with balanced type jack (XLR=SUB OUT). Wiring diagrams for this jacks is shown below. Make connections after first checking the wiring diagrams of other

equipment you intend to connect.

fig.XLR/TRSJack.eps

925

*Use only the specified expression pedal (Roland EV-5, BOSS FS- 500L/500H with a connection cable (stereo 1/4??? phone ??? stereo 1/4??? phone); sold separately). By connecting any other expression pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the unit.

927

*Depending on the circumstances of a particular setup, you

may experience a discomforting sensation, or perceive that the surface feels gritty to the touch when you touch this device, microphones connected to it, or the metal portions of other objects, such as basses. This is due to an infinitesimal electrical charge, which is absolutely harmless. However, if you are concerned about this, connect the ground terminal (see figure) with an external ground. When the unit is grounded, a slight hum may occur, depending on the particulars of your installation. If you are unsure of the connection method, contact the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the ???Information??? page.

Unsuitable places for connection

???Water pipes (may result in shock or electrocution)

???Gas pipes (may result in fire or explosion)

???Telephone-line ground or lightning rod (may be dangerous in the event of lightning)

926a

*When connection cables with resistors are used, the volume level of equipment connected to the BASS INPUT may be low. If this happens, use connection cables that do not contain resistors.

*Never connect anything other than the FC-300???s RRC2 OUT connector to the VB-99???s RRC2 IN connector. Connecting to a LAN or other devices that use modular jacks of the same size and shape (RJ45) may result in damage to the VB-99 and/or the connected device.

*If using a commercially available ethernet cable as the RRC2 connecting cable, be sure that the cable meets the following specifications:

???Category 5 (Cat5) or above

???Maximum length of 15 meters

???Cable designed for straight-through connections

*Crossover cables cannot be used.

*Do not subject the RRC2 cable to stress or physical shock.

*Carefully connect the RRC2 cable all the way in???until it is firmly connected to the RRC2 IN connector.

*When outputting in mono, connect a cable only to the MAIN OUT L/MONO jack.

BASS IN. The GT-10B???s internal FX, COSM AMP, MIXER, and

18

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

other settings can be used fully in two channels.

*When connecting an expression pedal to the EXP PEDAL jack, set the pedal???s minimum level knob to the MIN position.

*When connecting an FS-6 footswitch (optional) to the CTL3/4 jack,

set the MODE switch and POLARITY switch as shown below.

fig.01-010

BA

BOSS FS-6

*When connecting an FS-5U footswitch (optional) to the CTL3/4

jack, set the POLARITY switch as shown below.

fig.01-020

BOSS FS-5U

*You can connect two FS-5Us using the special Roland PCS-31 connection cable (optional).

*When an FS-6 is connected to the CTL3,4 jack with an optional connection cable (stereo 1/4??? phone ??? stereo 1/4??? phone), pedal switch B operates according to the CONTROL 3 settings, and pedal

switch A operates according to the CONTROL 4 settings.

???When using the VB-99 with an expression pedal connected to the EXP PEDAL jack, make the settings described on

???EXP PEDAL (Expression Pedal)??? (p. 139).

???When using the VB-99 with a footswitch connected to the CTL3/4 jack, make the settings described on ???CTL3, CTL4 (Control3, Control4)??? (p. 139).

Turning On the Power

941

Once the connections have been completed (p. 17), turn on power to your various devices in the order specified. By turning on devices in the wrong order, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to speakers and other devices.

942

*This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval (a few seconds) after power up is required before the unit will operate normally.

943

*Always make sure to have the volume level turned down before switching on power. Even with the volume all the way down, you may still hear some sound when the power is switched on, but this is normal, and does not indicate a malfunction.

*Turning on devices in the wrong sequence may result in malfunction and/or damage to speakers and other devices.

1.Switch on the POWER switch on the VB-99???s

top panel.

The display changes as described below, and after several seconds the VB-99 is ready for normal performance.

This screen is called the ???Play screen.???

fig.01-060d

Unless special note is made otherwise, the operations described in this manual are carried out with the Play screen displayed.

*When the power to the VB-99 is turned on, the patch selected at the

time the power was last turned off is called up.

985

*The explanations in this manual include illustrations that depict what should typically be shown by the display. Note, however, that your unit may incorporate a newer, enhanced version of the system (e.g., includes newer sounds), so what you actually see in the display may not always match what appears in the manual.

2.Turn on the power to the bass amp or mixer.

*Raise amp volume levels only after turning on the power to all the devices.

1 Chapter

19

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

About the Play Screen

The VB-99 has a variety of Play screen variations, each providing different information about the current state of the VB-99.

You can switch the information shown in the Play screen by pressing

PAGE [ ] [ ].

Screen 1:

The first nine characters of the patch name are displayed in large type; also shown are icons for the basses and amps in both channels.

fig.01-060d

Screen 2:

All sixteen characters of the patch name are displayed.

Screen 3:

The effects used, as well as their connection sequence (CHAIN) in both channels are indicated.

Screen 4:

The screen shows level meters for the GK IN strings Hi C???Low B, normal pickup, MAIN OUT, and SUB OUT levels.

By assigning parameters to the F1???F6 knobs, as

described in ???Changing the Sounds with the Function

Knobs as You Play (DIRECT EDIT)??? (p. 76), you can use them to control values while in the Play screen. Additionally, you can display a popup for the assigned parameters and their values by pressing the [F1]???[F6] buttons.

About the Information in the

Display (Basic Operation)

Some screens may contain parameters spanning multiple pages. The

page number is indicated at the upper right of the screen.

1. Use PAGE [ ] [ ] to switch pages.

2.Use [F1]???[F6] or the F1???F6 knobs to change the values.

Pressing a FUNCTION button while SET** appears in the lower part of the screen sets the corresponding function to the indicated value of **.

Adjusting the Volume

Turn the OUTPUT LEVEL knob to set the volume to a suitable level.

fig.01-070

*The output level from the SUB OUT connector (XLR type) cannot be adjusted with the OUTPUT LEVEL knob.

*You can adjust the volume level by assigning this function to the expression pedal or GK-3B GK volume control. For details, see

???Using the Switches, Pedals, and MIDI to Control the Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)??? (p. 77).

20

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

Setting the Device (Amp) Connected to MAIN OUT (Output Select)

Use this procedure to set the type of device connected to the MAIN

OUT jacks.

fig.01-071

3

4

Inputting the Divided Pickup

Settings (GK Settings)

The VB-99???s sound characteristics vary greatly depending on how the divided pickup is installed. To ensure consistent conditions for optimal sound production, be sure to make the settings affecting the divided pickup (the GK settings). With these settings appropriately made, the VB-99 can then operate under optimal conditions.

*For information on parameters not described in this chapter, refer to

???GK SETTING??? (p. 145).

1 Chapter

3

2

1

When using more than one bass with the VB-99, you can save the settings for each bass separately.

1.Press [GLOBAL].

The Global screen is displayed.

fig.01-072d

2.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

3.Press [F4] (SELECT) or turn the F4 knob to set the type of device to be connected to the MAIN OUT jacks.

AMP WITH TWEETER Use this setting when connecting to a tweet- er-equipped bass amp.

Use this setting when connecting to a bass AMP NO TWEETER amp that has no tweeter. The high-frequen-

cy range is adjusted.

Use this setting when using headphones or LINE/PHONES connecting directly to a PA system or multi-

track recorder.

4.Press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

The GK settings are extremely important to getting good tones from the VB-99. Be sure to input the settings correctly.

fig.01-100

5 6 3

1

1.Press [SYSTEM].

The System screen is displayed

2.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

3.Press [F3] (GK).

The GK Settings screen is displayed.

fig.01-060d

4. Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2.

21

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

5.Select the divided pickup type.

Use the F1 knob to set the type of divided pickup installed in

the bass you are using.

fig.01-060d

*If you???re not sure which piezo type parameter is appropriate, choose the parameter for the piezo type that sounds the most natural as you play.

*Piezo pickups are a type of pickup that are installed at the bass???s bridge and use piezoelectric elements to determine the string vibrations.

*Selecting PIEZO, PIEZO G or PIEZO R for GK PU TYPE lets you further adjust the sound quality of the low and high frequency ranges. For detailed information, refer to ???Selecting the Divided Pickup Type (GK PU TYPE)??? (p. 36).

6.Set the scale length.

Use the F4 knob to set the scale length (the distance from the bridge to the nut) of the bass you are using. Then, specify the value within 710-940 mm, or select one of the 4 presets listed below.

7.Select the position of the divided pickup.

Use the F5 knob to set the position of divided pickup installed

in the bass you are using.

For a 4-string bass:

For a 5-string bass:

For a 6-string bass:

6STR

string Hi C string 1 string 2 string 3 string 4

string Low B

8.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 4.

9.Input the gap between the pickup and the

bridge.

Set the clearance from the divided pickup to the bridge???s saddle.

*This setting is not required when the GK PU TYPE is set to piezo type parameter.

string Hi C string 1 string 2 string 3 string 4

string Low B

String

Pickup Bridge

22

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

10. Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 5.

fig.01-060d

11. Rotate the F1???F6 knobs to adjust the divided pickup sensitivity for each string.

First play the Low B string with the maximum force to be used during actual performance, and as you play the string, set the sensitivity with the F1 knob until the meter registers at a point just before it crosses beyond the maximum level.

Set the sensitivity for the fifth through Hi C strings in the same manner.

*If the level meter registers in excess of the maximum level, it means the level is set too high. Lower the sensitivity setting.

*Depending on the bass you are using, the level meter may move to the maximum level even when the sensitivity is set to the minimum setting. If this occurs, adjust the clearance separating the divided pickup and the strings so the distance is slightly greater than specified.

Tuning the Bass (TUNER)

Tune the bass using the VB-99???s tuner function.

*To get the best tone quality from the VB-99, make sure the tuning is

accurate.

fig.01-190

7

32

1

7

1.Press [TUNER].

The tuner function is switched on.

2.Set the following with the PAGE [ ] [ ] buttons.

TUNERExplanation

1 Chapter

12. Check the volume balance of the six strings.

Play the Low B through Hi C strings with the normal amount

MULTI MODE

You can play and tune six strings simulta- neously.

of force; if any string sounds particularly loud, lower the sensitivity setting for that string, and keep adjusting until the

SINGLE MODE

You can play one individual string to tune that string.

differences in the strings??? volume levels are minimal.

13. Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

*Making these settings is necessary whenever you install the divided pickup on a new or different bass and when the divided pickup height is changed. Once the settings are completed properly, they are saved when the power is turned off. Afterwards, you need not make the settings each time you play the instrument.

For more information on other parameters in the GK

Settings, refer to ???GK SETTING??? (p. 145).

3.Press the function button ([F5], [F6]) corresponding to the function you want to set, then rotate the knobs to select the value for

the setting.

If you do not want to change these settings, proceed to Step 4.

???[F5] (PITCH: 435 Hz???445 Hz)

This sets the reference pitch.

*With the factory settings, this is set to 440 Hz.

*The COSM bass PITCH SHIFT, HARMO, and BEND settings controlled by the KEY parameter and the HARMONIST effect refer to this reference pitch.

What is the Reference Pitch?

This is the frequency at A4 (the note played with the A key at the middle of the piano keyboard) played by the instrument (e.g., piano) used as the reference for tuning for performances.

23

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

???[F6] (MUTE OFF, MUTE ON)

This setting determines whether sounds from the output jacks are output or not while tuning is in progress.

4.Play a single note, open, on the string being tuned.

5.Tune the string until the name of the string is shown in the display.

When you choose the MULTI MODE

fig.01-060d

When you choose the SINGLE MODE

fig.01-060d

6.Keep checking the screen, tuning until the

center indicator lights up.

Repeat Steps 3-5 to tune all the strings.

7.When you have finished tuning, press [TUNER] or [EXIT].

This completes the preparations for playing the instrument. Now try playing some sounds.

Switching Tones (Patch)

What is a patch?

The VB-99 provides 400 memory locations where settings determining the sound, including those for COSM basses, COSM amps, and effects, as well as settings for a variety of other parameters are stored.

Each one of these is called a patch.

Each time you switch a patch, you can instantly change to a different tone.

About the Patch Numbers

Patch numbers and patch names are indicated in the Play screen as shown below.

fig.01-060d

Patch Number

Patch Name

Patches are categorized into User patches and Preset patches.

User Patches

These include 200 preprogrammed patches. You can freely change the tones and save the your changes.

Preset Patches

Included here are 200 preprogrammed patches. Although you can make changes to these tones, you cannot save these changes in a Preset Patch. If you want to save a changed tone, save it as a User patch.

24

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

Switching with the PATCH/ VALUE Dial

You can switch patches consecutively with the PATCH/VALUE

Dial.

1.Confirm that the Play screen is displayed.

If a screen other than the Play screen is shown, press [EXIT]

several times until the Play screen appears.

2.Rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to switch the

patches.

fig.01-190

2

Turn the dial to the right (clockwise) to switch to the next patch number, or to the left (counterclockwise) to switch to the previous patch number.

Turning Off the Power

1.Confirm the following before turning off the power.

???Are the volume levels for the VB-99 and connected amp and other devices turned down completely?

2.Turn off the power to the bass amp (power amp).

3.Press [POWER] to turn off the VB-99???s power.

fig.01-190

3

The message ???NOW SHUTDOWN...??? appears when the power is switched off. The VB-99???s current settings are saved to memory at this time. Do not disconnect the AC adaptor until this message is no longer displayed.

1 Chapter

25

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

First, let???s take a look at how the VB-99 is organized internally.

??? COSM Basses

You can use COSM modeling to create the tones of a variety of different bass guitars. Available sounds include not just electric bass and acoustic bass tones, but extend beyond to include the sounds of synthesizers and electric guitars and even non-existent, imaginary bass guitars. Since the created sounds are based on the signals sent by the GK-3B for each individual string, the system allows you to play these sounds while still retaining all the flavor created by the unique playing techniques and picking nuances that the bass guitar offers.

The VB-99 allows you to make settings for two different COSM bass types at the same time, enabling you to instantly switch what amounts to two actual bass guitars and create sounds in which two bass guitars seem to be playing at the same time.

??? COSM Amps

Since this technology models the bass amp circuitry and speaker characteristics, the modeled amps simulate exactly the behavior of the actual amps, even in the way distortion is added and the way the tone controls work.

You can configure preamps and speaker cabinets as you like???you can even model the amp???s studio miking. The VB-99 produces two independent COSM amp systems at the same time, which allows you to process each of the two COSM basses through a different amp.

??? Poly Effects

These are original VB effects that can be applied independently to each string. You can choose which of the two COSM basses the effects are applied to.

??? Effects

The VB-99 is equipped with two BOSS GT-10B class multi-effects systems. You can apply effects separately to each of the two COSM basses.

??? Mixer

In addition to having full freedom in mixing the sounds from the two COSM basses, you can also output the two bass guitars separately to MAIN OUT and SUB OUT. The Dynamic function further allows you to use the force of your playing attack to switch between the two bass sounds or many other functions. Furthermore, the mixer section also includes delay/reverb and an equalizer, enabling you to adjust the overall tone of the patches.

Setting the COSM BASS Tone

1.Press [COSM BASS].

2.Press PAGE [ ] several times to display Page 1.

3.Use [F1] (ON/OFF) or the F1 knob to switch the COSM BASS ON/OFF setting.

4.Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob to select the Modeling type.

5.Use [F3] (SELECT) or the F3 knob to select the COSM BASS type.

6.Press PAGE [ ].

*Each press of PAGE [ ] takes you to the next screen in which parameter settings are made.

7.Adjust the desired parameter with [F1]???[F6] or the F1???F6 knobs.

8.Adjust the parameters until you achieve the sound you want.

For detailed information about each of the parameters,

refer to ???COSM BASS??? (p. 96).

9.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

26

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

One-touch Output of the

Bass Direct Sound

(BASS DIRECT)

Setting BASS DIRECT to ???on??? enables you to output the direct bass sound at a single touch.

It's possible to create sounds like bass direct sound plus synthesizer bass sound by combining the direct bass sound with COSM bass, effect, or COSM amp sound.

Press [BASS DIRECT] to switch this off (unlit) or on (lit). You can store the BASS DIRECT setting in memory for each individual patch.

Applying the COSM Amps and Effects to Normal Pickup Sound

Setting the COSM BASS switch to ???NORMAL PU??? lets you apply COSM amps or effects using the normal pickup sound for the bass instead of the COSM bass.

Setting the COSM AMP Tone

1.Press [COSM AMP].

2.Press PAGE [ ] several times to display Page 1.

3.Use [F1] (ON/OFF) or the F1 knob to switch the

COSM AMP ON/OFF setting.

fig.01-060d

4.Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob to select the COSM AMP type.

5.Press PAGE [ ].

fig.01-060d

*Each press of PAGE [ ] takes you to the next screen in which parameter settings are made.

6.Adjust the desired parameter with [F1]???[F6] or the F1???F6 knobs.

7.Adjust the parameters until you achieve the sound you want.

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

???COSM AMP??? (p. 128).

8.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not need to save the settings, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

2 Chapter

27

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Setting the Effects

POLY FX (Poly Effect)

*You can use POLY FX in only one channel at a time (A or B).

1.Press [POLY FX] for the channel, either A or B, in which you want to use it.

2.Press PAGE [ ] several times to display Page

1.

fig.01-060d

3.Switch the function on or off with the [F1] (ON/ OFF) or the F1 knob.

4.Select the POLYFX TYPE with [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob.

5.Using [F3] (A/B) or the F3 knob, switch the channel to the one in which POLY FX is to be used.

6.Press PAGE [ ].

fig.01-060d

*Each press of PAGE [ ] takes you to the settings screen for the next parameter.

7.Set the desired parameter with [F1]???[F6] or with the F1???F6 knobs.

8.Adjust the parameters until you achieve the desired sound.

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

???POLY FX (Poly Effect)??? (p. 108).

9.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If not saving the values, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

FX (Effects)

Here???s how to make settings for the effects.

1.Press [FX].

fig.01-060d

2.Switch the individual effects on or off with the [F1]???[F6] (ON/OFF).

*Each press of PAGE [ ] [ ] takes you to another effect screen in which parameter settings are made.

All effects that are on can be alternately switched off

(indicator unlit) and on (indicator lit) together by

pressing [FX].

3.Press [F1]???[F6] to select the effect you want to edit.

4.Adjust the desired parameter with [F1]???[F6] or the F1???F6 knobs.

*Each press of PAGE [ ] takes you to the settings screen for the next parameter.

5.Adjust the parameters until you achieve the sound you want.

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

???FX (Effects)??? (p. 111).

6.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not need to save the settings, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

28

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Rearranging the Effect and Amp Connection Sequence (CHAIN)

You can freely set the order in which the effects and COSM amps are connected.

1.Press [CHAIN].

The Chain screen is displayed.

*If the effects and COSM amps are off, OFF is indicated.

2.Select the channel for which you want to change the connection sequence with [F1] (A/B).

3.Press [F2] ( SEL) [F3] (SEL ) to select the effect, COSM bass, or COSM amp to be shifted

in the sequence.

The output level for the selected effect is indicated in the

upper right of the screen.

4.Press [F4] (???MOVE) [F5] (MOVE???) to move to the position in the sequence you want the shifted item inserted.

5.To make any additional changes in the connection sequence, repeat Steps 2???4.

*You can also switch effects, COSM basses, and COSM amps on and off while setting the connection sequence. Pressing [F6] while the effect, COSM bass, or COSM amp is selected switches the function???s ON/OFF setting.

6.Press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

7.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

Specifying the tempo and key of the song to be played

1.Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

2.Press [F3] (BPM).

3.Tap [F1] (TAP) in time with the song tempo (quarter notes), or adjust the tempo with the F1 knob.

*If you want to control a patch parameter with the adjusted tempo, set

the corresponding effect parameter to BPM ???BPM .

BPM stands for ???beats per minute,??? and represents the number of quarter notes played in one minute.

If you want to use the MIDI SYNC function, the SYNC CLOCK parameter must be set to AUTO (USB), AUTO (MIDI), or AUTO (RRC2). For detailed information, refer to ???Syncing to the MIDI Clock from an External

Device??? (p. 58).

To use Tap Input

Press [F5] (TAP) at least two times, at quarter note intervals of the desired tempo. The tempo will be calculated automatically, and set to the interval at which you pressed the button.

4.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

29

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Setting the Key

1.Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

2.Press [F2] (KEY).

3.Set the song???s key with [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob.

*The COSM bass PITCH SHIFT, HARMO, and BEND settings and the HARMONIST effect operate according to the key you set here.

4.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Mixing the Normal Pickup Sound with the GK Input

It is possible to combine the sound of the COSM basses and the

normal bass pickups at the same time.

Setting the Volume Balance

1.Press [COSM BASS].

2.Set the COSM BASS SW to ON with [F1] or with the F1 knob.

The sounds from the normal pickup and COSM bass are not played when COSM BASS SW is set to OFF.

3.Press PAGE [ ] several times to move to the screen for setting the volume balance.

4.Use the F1 and F2 knobs to set the balance between the COSM bass sound and the normal pickup sound.

F1 Knob

Adjusts the COSM bass???s volume level. When POLY FX is set to ON, it adjusts the volume level of the signal after it has passed through POLY FX.

F2 Knob

This adjusts the volume of the normal pickup.

When the COSM bass is connected in CHAIN at a point other than the beginning of the effects chain, you can adjust the volume of the sounds that have passed though effects from the beginning of the chain up to the point where the bass is connected.

5.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

30

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Setting the Connection Locations for COSM Bass/Normal Pickup Sound

1.Press [CHAIN].

2.Use [F2] ( SEL) and [F3] (SEL ) to select the arrow that indicates the connection

location for the COSM bass or normal pickup sound.

3.Use [F4] ( MOVE) and [F5] (MOVE ) to move the connection location for the COSM

bass or normal pickup sound.

4.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not need to save the settings, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Mixing Channels A and B

Together (MIXER)

For a detailed block diagram of the signal path, refer to Chapter

???Signal Flow??? (p. 15).

2

Setting the Volume and Panning for Each Channel

1.Press [MIXER].

2. Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Make the settings for each channel on this page.

*Page 2 and later pages contain the mixer section???s common settings.

3.Set the volume and panning with [F1]???[F6] or with the F1???F6 knobs.

4.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If not saving the settings, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

When mixing two channels, you can produce a more realistic twin bass tone by setting a channel delay in one of the channels, thus causing the two bass sounds to be output at different times.

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

???MIXER??? (p. 131).

31

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Setting the Mix Balance

You can set the mix balance of Channel A and Channel B with the BALANCE knob. Soon after the knob is turned, the balance value pops up in the screen.

*You can also adjust this parameter in Page 2 of the Mixer screen.

*This knob is disabled when the Dynamic function is switched on.

Setting the Delay and Reverb (DELAY/REVERB)

This sets the mixer section???s delay and reverb.

1.Press [DELAY/REVERB].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Switch the delay on or off with [F1] (OFF/ON); switch the reverb on or off with [F4] (OFF/ON).

4.Set the parameters with [F1]???[F6] or with the F1???F6 knobs.

*Each press of PAGE [ ] takes you to the settings screen for the next parameter.

5.Adjust the parameters until you achieve the desired sound.

6.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If not saving the values, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

???DELAY/REVERB??? (p. 133).

Using Playing Dynamics to Control the Mix Between the Two Channels (DYNAMIC)

You can control the mix between the two channels according to how

strongly the strings are picked.

1.Press [DYNAMIC].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Switch the Dynamic function on or off with [F1] (OFF/ON).

4.Select the Dynamic function type.

5.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 2.

6.Set the parameters with the F1???F5 knobs.

7.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If not saving the values, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

???DYNAMIC??? (p. 134).

32

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Setting the Overall Patch

Volume Level (V-BASS LEVEL)

You can set the overall patch volume level with the V-BASS LEVEL knob. Soon after the knob is turned, the V-Bass settings value pops up in the screen.

*You can also adjust this parameter in Page 2 of the Mixer screen.

fig.01-060d

Adjusting the Overall Patch Tone

(TOTAL EQ)

You can make separate settings in each individual patch for the

overall tone after sounds have passed through the mixer.

1.Press [MIXER].

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 3 or 4.

3.Switch the EQ on or off with [F1] (ON/OFF) on Page 3.

4.Set the tonal quality with [F1]???[F6] or with the F1???F6 knobs.

5.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If not saving the settings, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

???TOTAL EQ (Total Equalizer)??? (p. 131).

Setting the Output Signal and

Level (OUTPUT)

This sets the signals and levels output for each of the VB-99???s output

jacks and connectors.

1.Press [MIXER].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 5.

3.Set the signal and level output to MAIN OUT and SUB OUT with [F2]???[F5] or with the F2???F5 knobs.

For detailed information on the parameters that can be

set, refer to ???OUTPUT??? (p. 132).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 6.

5.Set the signal and level output to DIGITAL OUT with [F2], [F3] or with the F2, F3 knobs.

6.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If not saving the settings, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

You can also set the output signal and level for the entire system.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 2.

3.Press [F1] (OUTPUT).

4.Set the OUTPUT MODE parameter to SYSTEM with [F1] (SELECT) or the F1

knob.

The value in the MIXER screen is disregarded, and

instead the SYSTEM value < > is applied.

2 Chapter

33

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Naming a Patch (PATCH NAME)

You can give names to the patches you create.

1.Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

2.Press [F1] (NAME).

3.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to the position at which you want to change a character.

4.Select the character with the PATCH/VALUE

dial.

As you continue to rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial, the character guide automatically switches from uppercase letters to lowercase letters, numerals, and symbols.

You can use the following convenient operations by pressing [F1]???[F6].

5.Repeat Steps 3 and 4 to complete the patch name.

6.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If not saving the settings, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Saving a Patch (WRITE)

The settings made to change a sound are temporary; when you switch to a different patch, the settings revert to the values in effect before the changes were made.

If you want to save the changes in the settings, carry out the Write procedure.

To make a copy of an existing patch, you can simply

save it to a different patch number.

1.Press [WRITE].

The Write screen appears.

2.Rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the save-destination patch number.

3.To save the patch, press [WRITE].

???NOW WRITING...??? is displayed while the patch is being saved, and then the Play screen returns to the display.

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

34

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

*The parameters described in this section are saved without the Write procedure being performed.

Inputting the Divided Pickup

Settings

To ensure optimal conditions for producing sounds with the VB-99, making the correct settings affecting the divided pickup (the GK settings) is required.

After you have finished inputting the various settings, press [EXIT] one or more times to return to the Play screen.

Selecting the Settings

The VB-99 can store ten separate sets of GK settings. If you are playing more than one bass using the VB-99, you can store separate settings for each one, allowing you to be ready in moments with the necessary settings when the basses are switched.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Press [F3] (GK) to display the GK SETTING screen.

4.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

5.Press [F4] (SELECT) or turn the F4 knob to

select the GK setting (1???10).

This specifies the setting to be stored as the GK setting.

*Pressing [EXIT] at this point and returning to the Play screen enables the selected GK setting.

*When PATCH is selected for the SET MODE parameter, the GK settings specified in each patch take priority. For detailed information, refer to ???Using Different Bass Settings in Each Patch (SET MODE)??? (p. 39).

Naming GK Settings (GK NAME)

You can give names to each of the GK settings.

1.Follow Steps 1???5 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 35) to select the GK SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Press [F6] (NAME).

4.Set the name using PAGE [ ] [ ], [F1]???[F5], and the PATCH/VALUE dial.

*Press [EXIT] one or more times to return to the previous screen.

3 Chapter

35

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Selecting the Divided Pickup Type

(GK PU TYPE)

1.Follow Steps 1???5 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 35) to select the GK SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 2.

3.Use F1 (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select the pickup type.

*If you???re not sure which piezo type parameter is appropriate, choose the parameter for the piezo type that sounds the most natural as you play.

*Piezo pickups are a type of pickup that are installed at the bass???s bridge and use piezo electric elements to determine the string vibrations.

Selecting PIEZO, PIEZO G or PIEZO R for GK PU TYPE lets you further adjust the sound quality of the low and high frequency ranges. Adjust them as required.

4.Use the F2 (LOW) and F3 (HIGH) knobs to adjust the sound quality of the low and high frequency ranges.

Inputting the Bass???s Scale

(BASS SCALE)

Set the scale length (the distance from the bridge to the nut).

1.Follow Steps 1???5 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 35) to select the GK SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [] to display Page 2.

3.Use the F4 knob to set the scale length of the bass you are using.

710???940mm, SHORT (760mm)

MEDIUM (812mm) Specifies the scale of your bass. LONG JB/PB (864mm)

EXTRA LONG (914mm)

Selecting the Position of the

Divided Pickup (GK PU POS)

1.Follow Steps 1???5 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 35) to select the GK SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [] to display Page 2.

3.Use the F5 knob to select the position of divided pickup installed in the bass you are using.

For a 4-string bass:

For a 5-string bass:

For a 6-string bass:

6STR

string Hi C string 1 string 2 string 3 string 4

string Low B

36

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Matching the Divided Pickup

and Normal Pickup Phase

(GK PU PHASE)

Certain peculiarities in the sound may appear when the COSM bass and normal pickup sounds are mixed. If this occurs, adjust this parameter and switch the COSM bass???s phase.

1.Follow Steps 1???5 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 35) to select the GK SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 3.

3.Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select the phase.

Setting the DOWN/S1, UP/S2

Switch Arrangement (S1, S2 POS)

On some basses with the divided pickup built in, the positions of the DOWN/S1 and UP/S2 switches are reversed. Set this so that the functions match.

1.Follow Steps 1???5 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 35) to select the GK SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 3.

3.Use [F3] (SELECT) or the F3 knob to select the arrangement.

Settings Explanation

3 Chapter

Setting the Direction for the Installed Divided Pickup

(GK PU DIRECTION)

*Make this setting if the divided pickup has been installed with the Hi C string end and Low B string end reversed.

1.Follow Steps 1???5 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 35) to select the GK SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 3.

3.Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob to select the pickup direction.

Settings Explanation

REVRSE

The DOWN/S1 switch and UP/S2 switch will be reversed.

NORMAL

The cable exits the pickup in the direction of the bass???s bridge.

REVRSE

The cable exits the pickup in the direction of the bass???s neck.

37

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Setting the Gap Between the

Pickup and the Bridge

(PICKUP???BRIDGE)

Set the clearance from the divided pickup to the bridge???s saddle for

each string.

*This setting is not required when the GK PU TYPE is set to piezo- type parameter.

1.Follow Steps 1???5 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 35) to select the GK SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 4.

3.Rotate the F1???F6 knobs to set the clearance for strings Hi C???Low B.

string Hi C string 1 string 2 string 3 string 4

string Low B

Adjusting the Sensitivity for Each String (SENS)

Adjust the divided pickup sensitivity for each string.

1.Follow Steps 1???5 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 35) to select the GK SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 5.

3.Rotate the F1???F6 knobs to adjust the

sensitivity.

Play each open string with the maximum force you???d use in an actual performance, and set the sensitivity such that the meter registers a level just before reaching the maximum level.

*If the large segments at the right end of the level meter appear, it means the level is set too high. Lower the sensitivity setting.

*Pressing [F1]???[F6] initializes each string???s value to 65.

*Depending on the bass you use, the level meter may move to the maximum level even when the sensitivity is set to the minimum setting. If this occurs, adjust the clearance separating the divided pickup and the strings so the distance is slightly greater than specified.

4.Play the Low B through Hi C strings with the normal amount of force; if any string sounds particularly loud, lower the sensitivity setting for that string, and keep adjusting until the differences in the strings??? volume levels are minimal.

String

Pickup Bridge

0???100

Adjusts the divided pickup input sen- sitivity for each string.

38

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Setting Whether or Not the Divided Pickup Is Used (GK CONNCT)

The VB-99 comes equipped with a function that automatically detects whether or not a GK connection exists and switches the internal settings accordingly. This makes it possible for you to use all functions other than a COSM bass (COSM amp, effects, tuner, etc.) when you???ve connected only to the BASS INPUT.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 35) to display the GK SETTING screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select the setting.

Settings Explanation

The presence of a GK connection is detected au- AUTO tomatically and the internal settings are

Determining the Function of the

GK Volume Control and DOWN/

S1, UP/S2 Switches (GK FUNC)

This sets the function for the GK-3B???s GK Volume and DOWN/S1,

UP/S2 switches.

4.Set the parameter you want to assign with [F1] (SELECT), [F6] (SELECT) or the F1, F6 knob.

For detailed information on the parameters that can be

ON

switched accordingly.

Settings appropriate for a GK connection are al- ways used.

OFF

Settings appropriate for a BASS INPUT connec- tion are always used.

*You should ordinarily use AUTO (the default setting). In cases where the auto-detect function does not operate correctly, (for example, when you are using a divided pickup other than the GK- 3B), pickup, use [F1] or the F1 dial to change the setting.

Using Different Bass Settings in

Each Patch (SET MODE)

This setting determines whether the VB-99 uses a single global GK

setting or if the GK settings can be specified individually for each

patch.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 35) to display the GK SETTING screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Use [F3] (SELECT) or the F3 knob to select the setting.

Settings Explanation

The GK SETTING set here is used globally for SYSTEM the entire VB-99.

PATCH

This is the default factory setting.

The GK Settings can be specified individually for each patch.

Use this setting when switching among multi- ple basses as you perform.

39

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Adjusting the Overall Tone According to the Environment

(GLOBAL/OUTPUT SELECT)

The VB-99 includes a function for adjusting the overall tone produced by the device. This is referred to as the Global function. You can use the Global function to adjust the overall sound of the VB-99 to suit the equipment being used or environment you are in without altering the individual patches.

Selecting the Settings

The VB-99 can store ten separate Global function settings (1???10).

After you have finished inputting the various settings, press [EXIT] one or more times to return to the Play screen.

1.Press [GLOBAL].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

The Global screen appears.

3.Select any setting 1???10 with [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob.

Naming the Settings

You can assign up to ten user names, each containing up to eight characters. For example, you could create names that suggest the gear used in a certain setting or a place where you perform.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 40) to select the SETTING.

2.Press [F3] (NAME).

3.Set the name using PAGE [ ] [ ] and [F1]??? [F5].

Setting the Types of Connected

Devices (OUTPUT SELECT)

You can match the VB-99???s output response to that of the connected device. Making this setting helps keep differences in sound qualities respective to the connected device to a minimum.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 40) to select the SETTING.

2.Use [F4] (OUTPUT SELECT) or the F4 knob to set the type of device to be connected to the MAIN OUT jacks.

Use this setting when connecting to a AMP NO TWEETER bass amp that has no tweeter. The high-

frequency range is adjusted.

Use this setting when using head- LINE/PHONES phones or connecting directly to a PA

system or multi-track recorder.

40

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Adjusting the Overall Tone

(GLOBAL EQ)

Both MAIN OUT and SUB OUT feature four-band EQs.

EQ (MAIN) is applied to the output from MAIN OUT;

EQ (SUB) is applied to the output from SUB OUT.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 40) to select the SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 2???5.

3.Use [F1] ??? [F6] or the F1 ??? F6 knobs to adjust the tone.

Parameter/

Controlling the Overall Effect of

the Noise Suppressor (Total NS)

This controls the overall threshold value for the noise suppressor settings in the individual patches. This is an effective tool when basses are changed during performances and for making adjustments in response to noise levels at the performance venue. This is an overall setting and does not alter the individual patch settings.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 40) to select the SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 6.

3.Adjust the level with the F1 knob.

3 Chapter

Range

Explanation

This adjusts the noise suppressor threshold levels set in each

MAIN EQ (Main Equalizer),

SUB EQ (Sub Equalizer)

A four-band equalizer with high and low ranges is provided.

MAIN EQ SW (Main Equalizer Switch),

SUB EQ SW (Sub Equalizer Switch)

TOTAL GAIN

-12???+12dB Adjusts the volume before the equalizer.

LOW GAIN

-12???+12dB Adjusts the low frequency range tone.

HIGH GAIN

-12???+12dB Adjusts the high frequency range tone.

LOW MID FREQ (Low Middle Frequency)

patch.

-20 dB ??? +20 dB

*This adjustment has no effect on patches in which the noise suppressor is off.

*To use the levels set in the individual patches, set this to 0 dB.

41

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Controlling the Overall Reverb

Level (Total REVERB)

This controls the overall reverb level settings in the individual patches. This is effective for adjusting to the acoustics of the performance venue. This setting does not affect the individual patch settings.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 40) to select the SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 6.

3.Adjust the level with the F2 knob.

This adjusts the reverb level set in each patch.

0???200%

*This adjustment has no effect on patches in which reverb is switched off.

*To use the levels set in the individual patches, set this to 100%.

Setting the Sounds Output from

SUB OUT (SUB OUT LEVEL)

This setting selects which signals are output from the SUB OUT

jacks.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Selecting the Settings??? (p. 40) to select the SETTING.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 6.

3.Adjust the setting with the F3 knob.

This adjusts the sub output level set in each patch.

0???200%

*To use the levels set in the individual patches, set this to 100%.

Setting the GK VOLUME

Control and Switch and the

Pedal Function (SYSTEM

CONTROL ASSIGN)

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Press [F4] (CTL).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

5.Select any setting from GK VOL to FC-300 CTL8 with [F2] (SEL) or [F3] (SEL) or the F2 or F3 knobs, then use [F5] (SELECT) or the F5 knob to select the function you want to assign.

If you want to be able to assign the functions for the controllers on an individual patch basis, set Control Assign to ASSIGNABLE (PATCH). With Control Assign set to ASSIGNABLE (PATCH), the unit operates in accordance with the assignments set in each patch, as described in ???Using the Switches, Pedals, and MIDI to

Control the Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)??? (p. 77).

*With other settings, the assignment settings in the patches are disregarded.

For information on assigned controllers, refer to

???Controller??? (p. 146) ; for more on assignable

parameters, refer to ???Parameters That Can Be

Assigned to Controllers??? (p. 147).

42

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Having Values from an External Pedal, GK VOLUME Control, or Other Controller Carried Over When Patches are Called Up (ASSIGN HOLD)

This setting determines whether or not the current settings for each controller (the expression pedals, the FC-300???s expression pedals, control pedals or other controllers) are applied to the patch when patches are switched.

*Assign Hold is not performed when the SW MODE parameter in Control Assign Source is set to LATCH. (LATCH toggles between the minimum and maximum value each time the switch is pressed.)

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Press [F4] (CTL).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 2.

The Control screen appears.

5.Select ON or OFF for the Assign Hold function with [F1] (OFF/ON) or the F1 knob.

Settings Explanation

Making System-wide Settings for the Features Controlled by the Function Knobs (SYSTEM DIRECT EDIT)

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3 Chapter

3.Press [F4] (CTL).

4. Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 2.

The Control screen appears.

5.Set the DIRECT EDIT parameter to SYSTEM with [F2] (SELECT) or with the F2 knob.

If you want to be able to assign the functions for the knobs on an individual patch basis, set DIRECT EDIT to PATCH. With DIRECT EDIT set to PATCH, the unit operates in accordance with the assignments set in each patch, as described in ???Changing the Sounds with the

Function Knobs as You Play (DIRECT EDIT)??? (p. 76).

6. Press Page [ ] to go to the page for the knob you want to set.

ON

Current values of controllers are applied when patches are called up.

Stored values (at the time of Patch Write) of OFFcontrollers are used when patches are called

up. (Current controller values ignored.)

You can quickly locate and select the desired parameter by first narrowing down the parameter type with F1 (F4), then using F2 (F5) and then F3 (F6) to reach the right parameter.

43

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Limiting the Patches That

Can Be Switched (PATCH

EXTENT)

Setting upper and lower limits for the patches that can be switched

allows you to select only the patches you need.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 3.

3.Press [F1] (MISC).

4.Press [F3] (FROM).

5.Set the lower limit of the patch selection with the PATCH/VALUE dial and [F3] (FROM) or the F3 knob.

6.Press [F4] (TO).

7.Set the upper limit of the patch selection with the PATCH/VALUE dial and [F4] (TO) or the F4 knob.

*These settings are enabled in the following situations.

???When the PATCH/VALUE dial is turned

???When patches are switched with the control switches or other controls

???When SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN (p. 42) is used to assign PATCH SELECT INC or PATCH SELECT DEC to the FC-300???s control switches or expression pedal switches

These settings have no effect on other FC-300 operations or operations using an external MIDI device.

Adjusting the Screen???s

Contrast

The text and icons in the LCD screen may be difficult to make out sometimes, such as immediately after the VB-99 is turned on or after extended use. The conditions at the place where you are using the VB-99 can also affect visibility. Should you run into this problem, try adjusting the contrast.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Press [F1] (LCD).

4.Turn the F1 knob to adjust the contrast.

44

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Setting the Output Signal

and Level (SYSTEM OUTPUT)

This sets the signals and levels output for each of the VB-99???s output jacks and connectors (MAIN OUT, SUB OUT, and DIGITAL OUT).

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 2.

3 Chapter

3.Press [F1] (OUTPUT).

4.Set the OUTPUT MODE parameter to SYSTEM with [F1] (SELECT) or with the F1 knob.

*If set to PATCH, the values set under???Setting the Output Signal and Level (OUTPUT)??? (p. 33) are enabled. The value in the MIXER screen is disregarded, and instead the value < > is applied.

5.Set the signal and level output to each output

with PAGE [ ] [ ] or with the F1???F6 knobs.

For detailed information on the parameters that can be

set, refer to ???OUTPUT??? (p. 151).

45

Chapter 4 Using the VB-99 in Combination with an FC-300

With an FC-300 (optional) connected to the VB-99, you can perform

the following operations:

???Switch patches

???Have patch names be shown in the FC-300???s display

???Control tones with the FC-300???s pedals (Control Assign)

???Show the VB-99???s tuner in the FC-300???s display when the TUNER function is used

???Switch the FC-300???s Amp Control on and off

Connecting with the RRC2 IN Connector

Connect the VB-99 and FC-300 using the RRC2 cable included with

the unit.

What is RRC2?

RRC2 is a Roland protocol that provides for the supply of

power and two-way data communications over a single cable.

Devices can also be connected using a commercially available

ethernet cable instead of the included RRC2 cable.

???Be sure to connect the RRC2 OUT connector to a device with an RRC2 IN connector. Use of the connection with LAN or other devices may cause generation of heat and damage to the equipment.

???Carefully connect the RRC2 cable the way in???until it is firmly to the RRC2 IN connector.

???Do not subject the RRC2 cable to stress or physical shock.

???If using commercially available ethernet cable as the RRC2 connecting cable, be sure that the cable meets the following specifications:

???Category 5 (Cat5) or above

???Maximum length of 15 meters

???Cable designed for straight-through connection.

*Ethernet cables designed for crossover connections cannot be used.

Settings Related to the FC- 300

If connecting the VB-99 with an FC-300 using an RRC2 cable, make

the settings below as needed.

Settings for Control of the FC- 300

This sets the method for controlling the FC-300.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Press [F5] (FC-300).

4.Set the SYS EX MODE with [F1] (OFF/ON) or with the F1 knob.

*The FC-300 will not respond unless you return to the Play screen.

46

Chapter 4 Using the VB-99 in Combination with an FC-300

Setting the Operation When

Patches Are Switched

This sets the timing at which patches are switched when you press

[ ] [ ] pedals on the FC-300.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Press [F5] (FC-300).

4.Set BANK CHANGE with [F2] (SELECT) or with the F2 knob.

Available Description

Settings

The patch changes immediately when the FC-300???s

IMMEDIATE

[ ] [ ] pedals are pressed.

Even after the FC-300???s [ ] [ ] pedals are WAIT NUM pressed, the patch does not change until the NUM-

BER is set.

*The FC-300 will not respond unless you return to the Play screen.

Activating the VB-99???s Tuner from the FC-300

(QUICK TUNER)

You can use the FC-300???s number pedals to switch the Tuner function on and off.

*The Quick Tuner function is enabled only in the Play screen.

*The Quick Tuner function is enabled only when the FC-300???s MODE is set to SYS EX.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Press [F5] (FC-300).

4.Set QUICK TUNER with [F3] (SELECT) or with the F3 knob.

4 Chapter

47

Chapter 4 Using the VB-99 in Combination with an FC-300

Setting the FC-300 Amp

Control

This switches the FC-300???s AMP CTL 1 and AMP CTL 2 parameters on and off.

When the bass amp???s channel switch jack is connected to the FC- 300???s AMP CONTROL 1 jack (or AMP CONTROL 2 jack), you can then switch the bass amp channels with the VB-99???s AMP CTL1 (or AMP CTL2) parameter.

1.Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the patch you want to set.

2.Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

3.Press [F4] (AMP CTL).

4.Use [F1] and [F2] or the F1 and F2 knobs to set AMP CTL1 and AMP CTL2 to ON or OFF.

Available Settings Description

OFF

The FC-300???s AMP CTL1 and AMP CTL2 parameters are set to OFF.

ON

The FC-300???s AMP CTL1 and AMP CTL2 parameters are set to ON.

With Amp Control, not only can you switch amp channels, you can also use it to switch the amp???s effects on and off, like a foot switch controller.

48

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

About MIDI

MIDI, an abbreviation for Musical Instrument Digital Interface, is a universal standard that enables musical instruments to exchange musical performance data, messages concerning changes in the sounds, and other information. Any device that conforms to the MIDI specifications can communicate (to the extent that is relevant to both devices) with any other MIDI device, even those that were made by a different manufacturer or that belong to a different category of instrument.

Under the MIDI specifications, performance data produced by such actions as playing a keyboard or pressing a pedal is handled as MIDI messages.

What You Can Do Using MIDI

Using MIDI, you can carry out the following operations with the VB- 99.

If using the VB-99 with an FC-300 connected, also refer to???Chapter 4 Using the VB-99 in Combination with an FC-300??? (p. 46).

*Use of MIDI requires that the MIDI channels of connected devices be matched.

Data cannot be transmitted to or received from other MIDI devices unless the MIDI channels are set correctly.

Operating from the VB-99

Outputting Program Change Messages

When a patch is selected with the VB-99, the VB-99 simultaneously transmits a Program Change message corresponding to the selected number. The external MIDI device switches its settings in response to the received Program Change message.

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

Outputting Control Change Messages

Data describing the action of an external device (expression pedal or footswitch) connected to the VB-99 is output as Control Change messages. These messages can be used for such tasks as adjusting external MIDI devices??? parameters.

Outputting Performance Data

The bass???s performance data can be output as Note messages and Bend messages, allowing you to perform through synthesizer sound modules and other devices connected to the VB-99. For more detailed information, refer to ???Playing an External Synthesizer

Sound Module (BASS TO MIDI)??? (p. 58).

Transmitting Data

You can use Exclusive messages to transmit settings for effect sounds and other data stored in the VB-99 to other MIDI devices. This allows you to give another VB-99 the identical settings and to save effect sound settings to MIDI sequencers and other such devices.

Controlling the VB-99 from an External MIDI Device

Switching Patch Numbers

The VB-99???s patches switch immediately in response to Program Change messages received from external MIDI devices.

You can set the correspondence between MIDI Program

Change messages and the VB-99???s patches with the ???RX

PC MAP (RECEIVE PROGRAM CHANGE MAP)??? (p.

55). Set this to ensure correspondence of the VB-99???s

effect sounds with those of other MIDI devices.

The connections shown in the diagram below are used when playing your bass backed by an automatic sequencer performance. The VB- 99???s patches change automatically when a Program number is entered with the performance data at the point where you want the VB-99???s patches to change.

MIDI OUT

MIDI IN

5 Chapter

49

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Receiving Control Change Messages

The VB-99 can receive Control Change messages to control specified parameters while a performance is in progress. Set the parameters to be controlled with

???Using the Switches, Pedals, and MIDI to Control the

Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)??? (p. 77).

Receiving Data

The VB-99 can receive data transmitted from other VB-99???s and data

saved to MIDI sequencers.

Main Types of MIDI Messages Handled by the VB-99

In order to be able to convey the full range of expression that is possible during performance, MIDI provides for different types of MIDI messages. MIDI messages can be categorized broadly into two groups; messages handled on an individual MIDI channel basis (Channel messages), and those handled independently of MIDI channels (System messages).

Channel Messages

These are messages used for conveying the events that take place during performance. Normally, you can control most performances using only these messages. The action controlled with each MIDI message is determined by the receiving device???s settings.

Program Change Messages

These message are generally used for switching sounds; sounds are switched with Program Change numbers 1???128. Furthermore, with the VB-99, you can also use Control Change Bank Select messages together with the Program Change messages, allowing you to switch 400 different patch numbers.

Control Change Messages

Control Change messages are used for enhancing performance expression. Functions are distinguished from one another with Control numbers; the particular functions that can be controlled varies with the MIDI device. With the VB-99, you can control specified parameters.

Note On Messages

These messages convey to the device the pitches and volumes at which sounds are played.

Note Off Messages

These messages instruct the device to stop sounds currently being played.

Bend Messages

These messages are sent to produce continuous changes in the pitch.

System Messages

System messages include Exclusive messages, messages required for synchronized performances, and messages designed to prevent problems with operation.

Exclusive Messages

Exclusive messages are used for handling sounds unique to a particular device and other such messages. Basically, you can exchange messages between devices of the same type from the same manufacturer. Using Exclusive messages, you can store parameter settings to sequencers and transmit parameter settings to other VB- 99s.

To exchange Exclusive messages, the Device ID numbers for each of the instruments must match.

50

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

About the MIDI Implementation

While the use of MIDI allows various devices to communicate with each other, this does not mean that it enables exchanges of all information. The data that can be exchanged between any two connected devices is limited to the messages common to both devices.

Therefore, MIDI device owner???s manuals always contain a MIDI Implementation chart, which allows the user to determine quickly what MIDI messages the particular device supports. Comparing the MIDI Implementation charts for each device allows you to confirm what information can be exchanged and how to accomplish this. Since these charts are uniform in size, you can overlay the charts for the transmitting and receiving devices when checking the information.

Function Transmit Recognized Remarks

A separate publication titled ???MIDI Implementation??? is also available. It provides complete details concerning the way MIDI has been implemented on this unit. If you should require this publication (such as when you intend to carry out byte-level programming), please access the Roland web site. http://www.roland.com/

Exchanging MIDI Messages

This section provides a simple description of how MIDI messages are exchanged.

About MIDI Connectors

MIDI messages are exchanged via the connectors described below. Connect MIDI cables to these connectors according to the use.

About MIDI Channels

MIDI allows various different messages to be sent separately to multiple MIDI devices over a single MIDI cable. This is possible thanks to the concept of MIDI channels.

MIDI channels use an approach similar to that of television channels. Switching channels on the TV allows the viewer to watch programs from a variety of broadcasters. This is because information is transferred over the channel to which both the transmitter and receiver are tuned.

TV information from many different broadcasting

Broadcasting station is sent through an antenna.

Station A

Broadcasting

Station B

Broadcasting

Station C

Select the channel of the broadcasting station you wish to watch.

MIDI includes channels numbered 1???16; MIDI messages are

transmitted to (receiving) instruments set to the same channel as the

transmitting device???s.

5 Chapter

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Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Bank Select and Program Change

Bank Select and Program Change are MIDI messages generally used for switching patches.

Normally, patches are switched using Program Change messages. However, if Program Changes alone are used, you???ll only be able to select up to a maximum of 128 different patches. Because of this, some devices also employ the Bank Select, expanding the number of selectable patches.

Patches for these devices are assigned numbers combining Bank Select MSB, LSB numbers 0???127 and Program numbers 1???128.

*The VB-99 disregards the Bank Select LSB.

Setting the MIDI-Related

Functions

This section describes the VB-99???s MIDI-related functions. Set these

according to how they are to be used.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

The System screen appears.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Press [F6] (MIDI).

The MIDI settings screen appears.

The following section describes the settings used with MIDI.

MIDI Channel

This sets the channel used for transmitting and receiving MIDI

messages corresponding to the VB-99???s patches and operations.

Also refer to ???Playing an External Synthesizer Sound Module

(BASS TO MIDI)??? (p. 58) if you are using the BASS TO MIDI

function, and refer to ???Controlling Video Images with Your Bass

(V-LINK)??? (p. 90) if you are using the V-LINK function.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Setting the MIDI-Related Functions??? (p. 52) to display the MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Rotate the F1 knob to set the MIDI channel (1??? 16).

Be sure not to set the same MIDI channel as the channel

used for the BASS TO MIDI or V-LINK functions.

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Chapter 5 Using MIDI

MIDI Omni Mode

When set to MIDI Omni mode, the VB-99 receives messages on all MIDI channels, regardless of the MIDI channel settings. You can use Omni mode whenever you do not need to use specific MIDI channels in controlling the VB-99.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Setting the MIDI-Related Functions??? (p. 52) to display the MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Set Omni mode on or off with [F2] or the F2 knob.

Even with Omni mode set to ON, the only Exclusive messages received will be those carrying the Device ID set for Device ID.

Omni mode is set to ON at the factory.

MIDI Device ID

This sets the Device ID to be used for the transmission and reception

of Exclusive messages.

Device ID is set to 1 at the factory.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Setting the MIDI-Related Functions??? (p. 52) to display the MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Rotate the F3 knob to set the Device ID (1???32).

SYNC CLOCK

You can synchronize the VB-99 to the MIDI Clock (tempo) transmitted from a MIDI sequencer or other external MIDI device.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Setting the MIDI-Related Functions??? (p. 52) to display the MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Use [F6] (SELECT) or the F6 knob to select the MIDI Clock to use as the tempo reference.

For detailed information on the parameters that can be

set, refer to ???Syncing to the MIDI Clock from an

External Device??? (p. 58).

MIDI ROUTING

Set the VB-99???s control signal path.

The VB-99 features three types of connectors for data input and output: the MIDI connectors (IN/OUT), a USB connector, and the RRC2 IN connector. When connecting the VB-99 to devices other than the FC-300, you need to consider the routing of the control signals.

Check the display as you set the necessary connections.

You can make the settings for MIDI IN and OUT on Page 2, for the USB connector on Page 3, and for the RRC2 IN connector on Page 4.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Setting the MIDI-Related Functions??? (p. 52) to display the MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Pages 2???4.

5 Chapter

3.Set the connections with [F1]???[F3] or the F1??? F3 knobs.

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Chapter 5 Using MIDI

MIDI PC OUT

This setting determines whether or not Program Change messages

are output when the VB-99???s patches are switched.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Setting the MIDI-Related Functions??? (p. 52) to display the MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 5.

3.Set PC OUT ON/OFF with [F1] or the F1 knob.

When outputting Program Change messages, the VB-99

simultaneously outputs MIDI Bank Select messages.

TX PC MAP (TRANSMIT PROGRAM

CHANGE MAP)

This setting determines the sequence of Program Change messages output when the VB-99???s patches are changed.

You can select whether to output Program Change messages set for the patches in advance or the Program Change messages programmed in each patch.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Setting the MIDI-Related Functions??? (p. 52) to display the MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 5.

3.Use [F2] or the F2 knob to set whether or not the Transmit Program channel is used.

Available Description

Settings

Regardless of the patch settings, Program Change FIXmessages predetermined for each patch number are

PROG

output.

The Program Change messages programmed in each patch are output.

The table below shows the correspondence between the patches and

Program Change messages when TX PC MAP is set to FIX.

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Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Setting the TX PC MAP

To set Program Change messages to be transmitted with individual

patches, make the settings described below.

Patch parameters are settings made individually for each

patch. The Write procedure (p. 34) is required to save changes

in the settings.

1.Select the patch to which you want to assign the predetermined Program Change message to be transmitted.

2.Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

3.Press [F5] (TX PC).

RX PC MAP (RECEIVE PROGRAM

CHANGE MAP)

You can select whether to use a fixed or freely set correspondence between program numbers received and the patches switched to when the VB-99???s patches are switched by Program Change messages transmitted by an external MIDI device.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Setting the MIDI-Related Functions??? (p. 52) to display the MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 5.

3.Use [F3] or the F3 knob to set whether or not the Receive Program Change Map is used.

Available Description

Settings

FIX

The VB-99 switches to the patches predetermined for the corresponding received Program Change messages, regardless of the Receive Program Change Map settings.

Chapter

PROG

The VB-99 switches to the patches set in the Receive Program Change Map.

5

4.To change the patch assigned to a received Program Number, press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to

display Page 6.

The RX PC MAP screen appears.

5.Assign the patch to a received Program Number.

???[F1] (BANK)/F1 Knob

Selects the Bank number.

???[F2] (SEL) or [F3] (SEL)/F2 or F3 Knob Selects the Program number.

???[F5] (SELECT)/F5 Knob

Selects the patch.

When the combination of the Bank number and Program number selected with F1, F2, and F3 is received, the VB-99 switches to the patch selected with F5.

55

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

The table below shows the correspondence between the factory default Program change Map and the Program Change messages received when RX PC MAP is set to FIX.

*When setting ???OMNI MODE??? (p. 149) to OFF, be sure to match

???MIDI CH (MIDI Channel)??? (p. 149) to the external MIDI device???s transmit channel beforehand.

Setting the MIDI Output Control

Change Number

This sets the Control Change numbers output when the VB-99???s pedals and external pedals or the FC-300???s pedals and external pedals are operated.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Setting the MIDI-Related Functions??? (p. 52) to display the MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 7.

The TX CC screen appears.

3.Use [F2] (SEL ) or [F3] (SEL ), the F2 or F3 knobs to select the controller you want to set.

4.Use [F5] or the F5 knob to assign the Control Change number to be transmitted when the

controller is adjusted.

When the controller selected with F2 or F3 is operated, the Control Change message selected with F5 is transmitted.

*Control Changes message cannot be output if OFF is selected.

Bulk Dump

With the VB-99, you can use Exclusive messages to set another VB-99 to the same settings or to save effect sound settings to MIDI sequencers and other such devices.

This transmission of data is referred to as bulk dump. Data that can be transmitted is described below.

How to Transmit the Data

When Saving Data to a MIDI Sequencer

Connect the devices as shown below, then place the MIDI sequencer

in standby mode, so it is ready to receive Exclusive messages.

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

For information on how to operate the sequencer you are

using, refer to the owner???s manual that came with it.

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Chapter 5 Using MIDI

When Transmitting Data to Another VB-99

Connect the devices as shown below, then match the Device IDs for

the transmitting and receiving devices.

MIDI OUT

MIDI IN

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Setting the MIDI-Related Functions??? (p. 52) to display the MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 8.

3.Use [F2] (SEL) or [F3] (SEL) to select the data you want to transmit.

4.Press [F1] (CHECK).

Only the types of data with a check mark are transmitted.

When selecting PATCH FROM/TO, you can use the

PATCH/VALUE dial to specify the range of patch

numbers to be transmitted

5.Repeat Steps 2 and 3 as needed.

6.Press [F6] (DUMP).

Transmission begins. Once the transmission is complete,

you???re returned to the screen you were in prior to

transmission.

You can cancel the procedure in progress by pressing

[EXIT].

Bulk Load

Reception of VB-99 data saved to MIDI sequencers and other devices

is referred to as bulk load.

When Receiving Data Saved to a MIDI Sequencer

1.Connect the devices as shown below. Set the VB-99???s Device ID to the same one used when the data was transmitted to the MIDI sequencer.

MIDI OUT

MIDI IN

2.Transmit the bulk data from the MIDI

sequencer.

The message ???SYSTEM EXCLUSIVE MESSAGE RECEIVING...??? is displayed while the data is being received. Once the reception is complete, you???re returned to the screen you were in prior to reception.

In this state, the VB-99 can then receive further data.

If the message ???MIDI BUFFER FULL??? appears, check the

connections and reduce the tempo of the transmitting

MIDI device.

5 Chapter

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Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Syncing to the MIDI Clock from an External Device

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Setting the MIDI-Related Functions??? (p. 52) to display the MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Use [F6] (SELECT) or the F6 knob to select the

synchronizing signal.

This specifies the setting to be stored as the SYNC CLOCK setting.

??? INTERNAL

The VB-99 operates independently.

??? AUTO (USB)

The VB-99 is synchronized to the MIDI Clock received via USB. However, operations are automatically synchronized to the VB-99???s internal Clock if the VB-99 is unable to receive the external Clock.

??? AUTO (MIDI)

The VB-99 is synchronized to the MIDI Clock received via MIDI. However, operations are automatically synchronized to the VB-99???s internal Clock if the VB-99 is unable to receive the external Clock.

??? AUTO (RRC2)

The VB-99 is synchronized to the MIDI Clock received via RRC2. However, operations are automatically synchronized to the VB-99???s internal Clock if the VB-99 is unable to receive the external Clock.

Playing an External

Synthesizer Sound Module

(BASS TO MIDI)

The VB-99 can convert performance data to MIDI Note and Bend messages and output these messages. Using this function allows you to record performances to sequencers and play sounds through external sequencer sound modules.

The BASS TO MIDI function features system parameters, whose settings affect the overall functionality of the device, and patch parameters, which are set on an individual patch basis.

About MIDI messages Output with Bass to MIDI

The following MIDI messages are output with Bass to MIDI.

Program Change Messages

These messages convey information about a patch change.

Control Change Messages

These messages describe any changes made using the panel knobs or by operating pedals.

Note On Messages

These messages convey to the device the pitches and volumes at which sounds are played.

Note Off Messages

These messages instruct the device to stop sounds currently being played.

Bend Messages

These messages are sent to produce continuous changes in the pitch.

The Channel-A COSM BASS settings (PITCH SHIFT, HARMO, and BEND) and the D Beam and ribbon controller settings (T-ARM) affect the pitch (MIDI note messages) output with Bass to MIDI. Channel B COSM BASS settings are not affected.

*If the pitch (MIDI note messages) output with Bass to MIDI becomes too low (or too high) because of the effects of the Channel A COSM BASS settings, the pitch is automatically shifted one octave higher (or lower).

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Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Setting the BASS TO MIDI

Function (System Parameters)

These procedures are used for making settings for the device as a whole. Changes are saved automatically, and the Write procedure is not required.

After entering these parameters, press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

Switching the BASS TO MIDI Function

On and Off

1.Press [BASS TO MIDI].

The BASS TO MIDI screen appears.

2.Set BASS TO MIDI to ON with [F1] (OFF/ON) or

the F1 knob.

Setting this to OFF prevents the output of all MIDI messages

related to the BASS TO MIDI function.

Selecting the Controller Used to Control the Hold Function (HOLD CTL)

1.Press [BASS TO MIDI].

The BASS TO MIDI screen appears.

2.Press [F5] (SYSTEM).

3.Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select the controller you want to set.

Controllers to which HOLD CTL is assigned are enabled simultaneously with parameters set in the SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN settings (p. 146). Set CONTROL ASSIGN to OFF if you want to use only the Hold function.

You can select the way the Hold function operates. For more details, refer to ???Selecting How the Hold

Functions (HOLD TYPE)??? (p. 63).

5 Chapter

59

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Thinning Out Bend Messages (BEND THIN)

Vibrato, slides, and other such data in bass performances are output as Pitch Bend messages. For this reason, the receiving MIDI device may encounter problems with operation when Pitch Bend messages containing large amounts of data are included.

You can use the BEND THIN function to thin out the Pitch Bend messages and control the volume of MIDI data.

1.Follow Steps 1???2 in ???Selecting the Controller Used to Control the Hold Function (HOLD CTL)??? (p. 59) to display the BASS TO MIDI screen.

2.Set the function to ON with [F2] (OFF/ON) or

the F2 knob.

Select OFF when you do not want to reduce the amount of

data transmitted in the Pitch Bend messages.

Setting the MIDI Transmit Channel

(BASIC CH)

This sets the MIDI channel used for output of string performance data from the VB-99.

Set the MIDI channels according to the POLY/MONO mode as shown below.

??? When set to POLY mode

The performance data for all of the strings is transmitted over the basic channel.

??? When set to MONO mode

Hi C string: Transmitted over the basic channel.

1st string: Transmitted over the channel number one higher than the basic channel.

:

Low B string: Transmitted over the channel number five higher than the basic channel.

For more details about the mode, refer to ???Setting the

Transmission Mode (MODE)??? (p. 61).

1.Follow Steps 1???2 in ???Selecting the Controller Used to Control the Hold Function (HOLD CTL)??? (p. 59) to display the BASS TO MIDI screen.

2.Set the channel with [F3] (SELECT) or the F3 knob.

Preventing Transmission of Program

Change Messages (PC MASK)

You can prevent transmission of Program Change messages that can

be set in ???Outputting Program Change Messages

Simultaneously When Switching Patches (PC)??? (p. 64).

*This does not affect such Program Changes as those set in ???MIDI PC OUT??? (p. 54).

1.Follow Steps 1???2 in ???Selecting the Controller Used to Control the Hold Function (HOLD CTL)??? (p. 59) to display the BASS TO MIDI screen.

2.Set the function to ON with [F4] (OFF/ON) or

the F4 knob.

When PC MASK is set to ON, the Program Change messages

set with the PC parameter (p. 64) in BASS TO MIDI are not

transmitted.

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Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Setting the Transmission Mode (MODE)

1.Press [BASS TO MIDI].

The BASS TO MIDI screen appears.

2.Press [F3] (PATCH).

3.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

5 Chapter

4.Set the mode with [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob.

???MONO (MONO Mode)

In this mode, one channel per string is used, thus using a total of six channels.

Since each string uses a different MIDI channel, you can select a different tone for each string, using string bending or continuously varying the pitch on a specific string; however, this requires use of a multitimbral sound module.

??? POLY (POLY Mode)

In this mode, the messages for all six strings are transmitted over a single channel.

While transmitting the MIDI messages for all of the strings over one channel does simplify the settings needed for the sound module and reduces the number of MIDI channels used, it does impose certain limitations; for example, permitting only one tone to be selected for all of the strings.

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Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Adjusting the Feel Produced in Playing

the Bass (PLAY FEEL)

This selects the response of the synth sound relative to the playing dynamics.

Changing this setting depending on the performance style used with the bass or the tone allows you to express dynamics more naturally.

1.Follow Steps 1???2 in ???Setting the Transmission Mode (MODE)??? (p. 61) to display the BASS TO MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Adjust the setting with [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob.

???FEEL1???FEEL4

FEEL1 is the mode that gives sounds the broadest variation in volume based on the playing dynamics. As the setting number is increased, it becomes easier to produce high volume sounds even with weaker playing.

This allows you to play with consistent volume, whether you tap the strings or use rough playing.

??? NO DYNA

In this mode, sounds are played at a fixed volume regardless of the playing strength.

??? STRUM

This suppresses the output of sounds from weaker playing. This setting allows you to prevent undesired sounds produced when playing rhythm or due to incidental contact with strings from incorrect playing.

Changing the Pitch in Semitone Units

(CHROMATIC)

When using string bending or other such techniques to gradually change the pitch with the bass, you can set the VB-99 so that the pitch of the MIDI messages being output changes in semitone increments.

1.Follow Steps 1???2 in ???Setting the Transmission Mode (MODE)??? (p. 61) to display the BASS TO MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

3.Adjust the setting with [F3] (SELECT) or the F3 knob.

???OFF

Normal Pitch Bend messages are output. The pitch varies continuously in keeping with the string bending or vibrato.

??? TYPE 1

When the pitch changes, this setting applies the results of the pitch change information without stopping the note that is playing.

This produces a unique effect, whereby there is no attack sound when the pitches change, similar to slurring on a recorder.

??? TYPE 2

When the pitch changes, the VB-99 retriggers (replays) the sound at the changed pitch, producing pitch changes only at the semitone increments.

As a result, the attack sound plays each time the pitch changes. The attenuation of the string vibration following the moment the string is played is reflected in the gradual fading of the retriggered sound.

??? TYPE 3

As with TYPE 2, sounds are retriggered at the changed pitch, expressing the pitch changes only in semitones.

However, instead of reflecting the attenuation of the string vibration, the retriggered sound is the same as that when the string was initially played.

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Chapter 5 Using MIDI

3.Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select

4. Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob, or [F5] (SELECT) or the F5 knob, to select the Control Change number you want to output.

Off, CC #1???#31, CC #64???#95

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Chapter 5 Using MIDI

The MIDI channel over which the messages are output in POLY mode is only the basic channel. In MONO mode, the messages are output over the six channels spanning from the basic channel up to the channel numbered five above the basic channel.

Outputting Program Change Messages

Simultaneously When Switching

Patches (PC)

This sets the Program Change messages that are output when the VB-99???s patches are switched.

*Program Change messages are not output while PC MASK (p. 60) is set to ON.

1.Follow Steps 1???2 in ???Setting the Transmission Mode (MODE)??? (p. 61) to display the BASS TO MIDI screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Pages 3???5.

When MODE (p. 61) is set to MONO, you can make settings

individually for each of the six strings of STRING HiC???LowB.

3.Make the settings with [F1]???[F6] or the F1???F6

knobs.

Set the following parameters.

4.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

The MIDI channel over which the messages are output in POLY mode is only the basic channel. In MONO mode, the messages are output over the six channels spanning from the basic channel up to the channel numbered five above the basic channel.

64

Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected to a Computer Via USB

Before Using the USB

Connection

By using USB with the VB-99, you???ll be able to exchange digital

audio signals and MIDI messages with your computer.

Installing and Setting the USB Driver

Use of the VB-99???s USB functionality requires that the USB driver first be installed on the computer.

The dedicated VB-99 driver is contained on the ???VB-99 Software CD- ROM??? included with the VB-99.

As the program and procedures used in installing the driver vary according to the operating environment, carefully read the following Readme file contained on the ???VB-99 Software CD-ROM??? before use.

Windows XP \Driver\XP\Readme_E.htm

Windows Vista \Driver\Vista\Readme_E.htm

What is a USB Driver?

A USB driver is software that acts as a go-between in transferring data between computer applications (such as recording software and sequencer software) and the USB device when the computer and USB device are connected using a USB cable.

The USB driver transmits data from the applications to the USB device, and conversely, passes messages from the USB device to the applications.

Application

USB Connector

USB

Driver

USB Cable

Driver Mode

The VB-99 features two operational modes, one which uses the special driver contained on the included CD-ROM, and one in which the OS???s (Windows/Mac OS) standard driver is used.

Using the specialized driver, you can record, play back, and edit audio with high-quality sound and stable timing.

It also allows you to control the VB-99 using MIDI messages.

Dedicated Software for the VB-99

Dedicated software that enables you connect and use a computer is available for the VB-99.

The software for the VB-99 will be available on the Roland website (http://www.roland.com).

Separate versions for Windows and for Macintosh are available.

VB-99 Editor

You can use this to make settings for the VB-99 from your computer.

You can also save tone setting (patch) data you have created as files on the computer.

VB-99 Librarian

You can manage the VB-99???s settings and patches all together using your computer.

6 Chapter

Computer

VB-99

65

Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected to a Computer Via USB

Switching the Driver Mode

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2.

3.Press [F2] (USB).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 2.

5.Set the DRIVER MODE with [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob.

Setting the USB Functions

The following section describes the VB-99???s USB-related functions. Make these settings in accordance with how you plan to use the VB- 99.

Setting the Digital Audio Signal

Input and Output

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 2.

3.Press [F2] (USB).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

STNDRD

This mode uses the OS???s standard USB driv- er.

ADVANC

This mode uses the dedicated driver con- tained on the CD-ROM.

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

About MIDI in Standard Driver Mode

You cannot use MIDI when STNDRD is selected as the driver mode. If you want to use MIDI with the USB connection, set the VB-99 to the advanced driver mode.

USB IN

This sets the point at which digital audio signals received via USB (from your computer) are connected within the VB-99.

*Do not connect at a point before the point set with the USB OUT parameter. For more on the connection points, refer to ???Signal Flow??? (p. 15).

*If the USB IN parameter is set to COSM BASS A, COSM BASS B, or NORMAL PU, the setting automatically changes to MAIN & SUB the next time the VB-99 is powered up. If you plan to use COSM BASS A, COSM BASS B, or NORMAL PU, make the setting each time you turn on the power to the VB-99.

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Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected to a Computer Via USB

USB OUT

This sets the point internally within the VB-99 from which signals are output via USB (to the computer).

Setting the Direct Monitor

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2.

3.Press [F2] (USB).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 2.

5.Change the setting???s value with [F2] (SELECT), [F3] (OFF/ON) or the F2, F3 knobs.

For more information on signal paths set by the Direct

Monitor parameter settings, refer to ???Signal Flow??? (p.

15).

6.Press [EXIT] one or more times to return to the Play screen.

6 Chapter

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Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected to a Computer Via USB

Parameter/

Recording the VB-99???s

Range

Explanation

Output with a Computer

MON CMD (Monitor Command)

This setting determines whether or not the command (the Direct Monitor command) controlling the Direct Monitor (described later) setting is enabled.

DIRECT MON (Direct Monitor)

Switches the output of the VB-99 sound to the PHONES jack, MAIN OUT jacks, or SUB OUT jacks.

*This setting cannot be saved. It is set to ON when the power is turned on.

*If you are using the special driver, you can control DIRECT MON On/ Off from ASIO 2.0-compatible application.

In the computer application, set the audio input port to the VB-99. You can freely set the point at which signals are sent to the computer with ???USB OUT??? (p. 67)

For example, by selecting COSM BASS A or COSM BASS B, you can listen to the performance with the effects applied, while recording it without the effects.

*If passing audio data through the software you???re using, switch the direct monitor off.

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Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected to a Computer Via USB

Using the VB-99 to Add Effects to Audio Playback from a Computer

In the computer application, set the audio output port to the VB-99. You can use the VB-99 to apply effects to the audio data played by the computer, then record the data again with the computer.

Use this process when, for example, you want to add effects to existing audio data.

*Set the software so audio is not passed through it.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2.

3.Press [F2] (USB).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

5.Use [F1] or the F1 knob to set the point within the VB at which you want the connection to be

made.

Here, set either COSM BASS A, COSM BASS B, or NORMAL

PU.

For more information about the USB IN parameter

settings, refer to ???Setting the Digital Audio Signal

Input and Output??? (p. 66).

6.Use [F2] or the F2 knob to adjust the level of the digital audio from the USB (computer).

7.Press [EXIT] one or more times to return to the Play screen.

6 Chapter

69

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Changing the Tone in Real Time with the D Beam and Ribbon Controllers

Adjusting the D Beam

(CALIBRATION)

The sensitivity of the D Beam controller can vary depending on the

amount of light in the vicinity of the controller and the object (e.g.,

hand, bass neck) used to operate it. Perform this adjustment so you

can control the tone in the intended range.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2.

3.Press [F6] (CALIB).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

5.Set the beam???s responsive range as you actually operate the D Beam controller.

???First, hold the object you will use to activate the controller (your hand, bass neck, etc.) at the point farthest from the VB-99 in the range you want the controller to respond, and press [F1] (SetMIN).

???Next, hold the object at the closest point in the range you want the controller to respond, and press [F4] (SetMAX).

6.Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

???The D Beam controller???s response may also vary with the stage lighting used. Confirm operation of the controller by testing it onstage under the actual illumination.

???If the set range is too narrow or if the positioning is not suitable, the message ???OUT OF RANGE! SET AGAIN.??? appears. To keep this message from appearing, change the range or position and recalibrate.

???The controller may not function properly with spot lights or other such lighting shining directly on it.

???Be sure to adjust the CALIBRATION directly above the D Beam controller.

OK!

???When the message ???MISSING THE TARGET!??? appears, it indicates that the calibration is not being performed correctly.

???The CALIBRATION setting is a system parameter, so the Write procedure is not required.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Disabling the D Beam (DISABLE)

You can disable the D Beam controller for the entire device.

If you are using the VB-99 rack-mounted or otherwise not using the D Beam controller, we recommend disabling the D Beam controller by setting D BEAM DISAB to OFF.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2.

3.Press [F6] (CALIB).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

The D BEAM CALIB screen appears.

5.Switch the controller on or off with [F6] (OFF/ ON).

6.Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

The DISABLE setting is a system parameter, so the Write

procedure is not required.

Controlling Sounds by Hand Motion or the Bass Neck

(D Beam Controller)

The D Beam controller allows you to change the sounds played by moving your hand or bass neck over it. You can apply various effects to the sound by changing the functions assigned to this controller.

Before using the D Beam controller, you need to adjust

its sensitivity ???Adjusting the D Beam

(CALIBRATION)??? (p. 70).

1.Press the D BEAM [PITCH], [FILTER], or [ASSIGNABLE] button to switch the D Beam controller on.

The D Beam controller ON/OFF setting is a patch

parameter. Carry out the Write procedure as required.

(p. 34)

For instructions on how to set these functions and tones, please

read ???Using the Switches, Pedals, and MIDI to Control the

Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)??? (p. 77).

2.While you play the bass to produce sound, place your hand or bass neck above the D Beam controller and move it slowly up and down.

Use of the D Beam ASSIGNABLE setting also enables

detection horizontally (left to right).

3.The effect is applied to the sound in accordance with the function assigned to the

D Beam controller.

The blue indicator under the D Beam controller lights while the

D Beam effect is being applied.

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4.To turn off the D Beam controller, press the button you pressed in Step 1 again so the indicator goes off.

Effective Range of the D Beam Controller

The D Beam controller???s effective range is shown in the figure

below. Moving your hand outside this effective range produces

no effect.

The effective range of the D Beam controller will be extremely limited when used under strong, direct sunlight. Please be aware of this when using the D Beam controller outdoors.

The sensitivity of the D Beam controller can vary depending on the amount of light in the vicinity of the unit. If it does not function as you expect, adjust the D Beam.(p. 70)

The parameter values set by holding your hand or other object over the D Beam controller change as shown below.

D BEAM horizontal Explanation movements

To the right of the D

Adjusting the Ribbon Controller

(CALIBRATION)

While the ribbon controller has been adjusted at the factory for optimum performance, the responsive range may vary with the width of the finger used to activate the controller.

If this occurs, use the procedure below to readjust the range.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2.

3.Press [F6] (CALIB).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 2.

The RIBBON CALIB screen appears.

5.Set the responsive range as you actually operate the ribbon controller.

???First, while holding your finger against the near end of the ribbon controller, press [F1] (SetMIN).

???Next, hold your finger against the far end and press [F4] (SetMAX).

If the message ???OUT OF RANGE! SET AGAIN.??? is displayed, carry out the calibration process once more. If the message continues to appear even after the calibration is correctly performed, it may indicate damage or malfunction. Consult your Roland dealer or contact Roland Service.

6.Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

Beam

The value approaches the MAX value.

The CALIBRATION setting is a system parameter, so the

To the left of the D

Write procedure is not required.

Beam

The value approaches the MIN value.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Controlling the Sounds with the Movement of Your Fingertip (Ribbon Controller)

The ribbon controller allows you to change sounds by ???scratching??? or tracing your finger along the ribbon. You can apply various effects to the sound by changing the functions assigned to this controller.

1.Press the RIBBON CONTROLLER [PITCH], [FILTER], or [ASSIGNABLE] button to switch on the ribbon controller.

For more on how to set functions and tones, please read ???Using

the Switches, Pedals, and MIDI to Control the Sounds

(CONTROL ASSIGN)??? (p. 77).

2.While you play the bass to produce sound, move your fingertip along the ribbon controller.

3.The effect is applied to the sound in accordance with the function assigned to the ribbon controller.

4.To turn off the ribbon controller, press the button you pressed in Step 1 again so the indicator goes off.

The setting switching the ribbon controller on and off is

a patch parameter. Carry out the Write procedure as

required.

A light touch is sufficient when operating the ribbon controller. Never press the ribbon controller forcefully or with a hard or pointed object.

Holding Sounds for Extended Periods (FREEZE)

You can press the D BEAM [PITCH] button to use the FREEZE

effect, which allows you to hold sounds indefinitely.

1.Press [CONTROL ASSIGN]

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2.

3.Press [F1] (PITCH).

4.Select FREEZE with [F1] (SELECT) or the F1

knob.

The D BEAM FREEZE screen appears.

5.Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob to select the channel with the sounds you want to freeze.

6.Set each of the FREEZE parameters on Page 1 or Page 2

For more detailed information on the parameters that can be set,

refer to (p. 136).

7.Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

8.Press the D BEAM [PITCH] button, causing the indicator to light.

9.Play the bass, and while the sounds are playing, cut across the D Beam with your hand or bass neck.

10.The FREEZE function switches on and the same sound continues to hold, while the D Beam controller???s blue indicator lights up.

11.To switch FREEZE off, swipe your hand or bass neck across the D Beam controller???s beam.

*With D BEAM:FREEZE:SW set as the target in Control Assign, you can control the FREEZE effect ON/OFF using an external

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

pedal, MIDI device, or any of a variety of other controllers.

Changing the Pitch as with a Tremolo Arm (T-ARM)

You can press the D BEAM or RIBBON CONTROLLER [PITCH] button to use T-ARM, which changes the pitch of the COSM bass like a tremolo arm.

1.Press [CONTROL ASSIGN]

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2 for the D Beam, or Page 3 for the ribbon controller.

3.Press [F1] (PITCH).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

5.Select T-ARM with [F1] (SELECT) or the F1

knob.

The D BEAM T-ARM or the RIBBON T-ARM screen appears.

*This step is not necessary if you are using the ribbon controller. In this case, proceed to Step 5.

6.Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob in the D Beam screen or [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob in the Ribbon Controller screen to select the channel to which you want to apply the effect.

7.Set each of the T-ARM parameters on Page 1 or Page 2

For more detailed information on the parameters that can be set,

refer to ???PITCH??? (p. 136), (p. 138).

8.Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

9.Press the D BEAM or RIBBON CONTROLLER [PITCH] button, causing the indicator to light.

10.Use the D Beam or ribbon controller like a tremolo arm to change the pitch.

*With D BEAM:T-ARM:SW or RIBBON:T-ARM:SW and ??? BEAM:T-ARM:CONTROL and RIBBON:T-ARM:CONTROL set as the target in Control Assign, you can control the T-ARM effect using an external pedal, MIDI device, or any of a variety of other controllers.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Adding Nuance to the Sound (FILTER)

You can press the D BEAM or RIBBON CONTROLLER [FILTER] button to apply the FILTER effect and add nuance to the tone in Channel A or B, or both channels.

1.Press [CONTROL ASSIGN]

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2 for the D Beam, or Page 3 for the ribbon controller.

3.Press [F2] (FILTER).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

The D BEAM FILTER or the RIBBON FILTER screen appears.

5.Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select the channel to which you want the effect to be applied.

6.Set each of the FILTER parameters on Page 1.

For more detailed information on the parameters that can be set,

refer to ???FILTER??? (p. 137), (p. 138).

7.Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

8.Press the D BEAM or RIBBON CONTROLLER [FILTER] button, causing the indicator to light.

9.Use the D Beam or ribbon controller to apply the filter and add nuance to the sound.

*With D BEAM:FILTER:SW or RIBBON:FILTER:SW and D BEAM:FILTER:CONTROL and RIBBON:FILTER:CONTROL set as the target in Control Assign, you can control FILTER:CONTROL using an external pedal, MIDI device, or any of a variety of other controllers.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Changing the Sounds with the Function Knobs as You Play (DIRECT EDIT)

You can assign parameters to the F1???F6 knobs to control the

parameters as you play.

Additionally, you can check (display) the assigned parameters by

pressing [F1]???[F6].

*Set the DIRECT EDIT parameter (p. 148) settings to PATCH.

1.Press [CONTROL ASSIGN]

2.Press PAGE [ ] to go to the last page.

3.Press [F6] (F1???F6) to enter the DIRECT EDIT

screen.

The DIRECT EDIT screen appears.

4.Press Page [ ] [ ] to go to the page for the knob you want to set.

5.Use the [F1]???[F6] or F1???F6 knobs to select the parameters you want to assign to the knob.

You can quickly locate and select the desired parameter by first narrowing down the parameter type with F1 (F4), then using F2 (F5) and then F3 (F6) to reach the right parameter.

6.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If not saving the settings, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

When Messages Are Displayed

These appear because the DIRECT EDIT parameter is set to

SYSTEM.

This means that the settings in the DIRECT EDIT screen, which are the patch parameters, have no effect.

To enable the settings, the DIRECT EDIT parameter in the CONTROL screen for SYSTEM must be set to PATCH. For detailed information, refer to ???Making System-wide Settings

for the Features Controlled by the Function Knobs

(SYSTEM DIRECT EDIT)??? (p. 43).

To dismiss this message, press [EXIT].

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Using the Switches, Pedals, and MIDI to Control the Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)

These settings are made when parameters are to be controlled with the GK-3B VOLUME knob or DOWN/S1, UP/S2 switches, the VB- 99???s CONTROL buttons, an external pedal or other connected controller, or a connected MIDI device.

In addition to settings already assigned to controllers, the VB-99 also features sixteen prepared general-purpose control assigns that let you freely assign settings to controllers as you like.

*If you intend to control the parameters of effects and the like, be sure to set the effect to ON beforehand.

*For more detailed information on the parameters, refer to

???CONTROL ASSIGN??? (p. 135),

*Enabling the settings requires setting each of the controller assignments to ASSIGNABLE in the SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN screen. For detailed information, refer to ???Setting the GK VOLUME

Control and Switch and the Pedal Function (SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN)??? (p. 42).

1.Press [CONTROL ASSIGN]

2.Select the controller you want to set with

PAGE [ ] [ ] and [F1]???[F6].

The various controllers??? setting screens appear.

*The following section describes the controllers you can set.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

3.Select the function you want to assign with

PAGE [ ] [ ], [F1]???[F6], and the F1???F6 knobs.

You can assign two different functions to one controller. For example, you can assign separate functions to the GK VOL (1) and GK VOL (2) displayed in the screen.

For more on PITCH and FILTER of the D BEAM controller,

refer to ???Controlling Sounds by Hand Motion or the Bass

Neck (D Beam Controller)??? (p. 71). For more on PITCH and

FILTER of the Ribbon controller, refer to ???Controlling the

Sounds with the Movement of Your Fingertip (Ribbon

Controller)??? (p. 73).

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

The following section describes the parameters you can set on each page.

*The screen shown in the example is for ASSIGN1.

Page 1, 3

F1: SOURCE (ASSIGN1???16 only)

This selects the controller assigned to the function.

F3: SW (ON/OFF)

Setting this to ON enables the controller.

F4???F6: TARGET PARAMETER

Use these to select the parameter you want to assign.

You can quickly locate and select the desired parameter by first

narrowing down the parameter type with F4, then using F5 and

then F6 to reach the right parameter.

For more details on the parameters, refer to ???CONTROL

ASSIGN??? (p. 135).

Page 2, 4

F2: MIN

This sets the minimum value for the target???s controllable range.

F3: MAX

This sets the maximum value for the target???s controllable range.

F4: SW MODE (only when a switch type controller is selected for

SOURCE)

This specifies how the switches function.

Available Settings Explanation

F4: MODE (GK S1, S2 only)

This specifies how the switches function.

*Combinations of the actions below are possible. S1: DEC / S2: INC

S1: INC / S2: DEC

S1: MIN / S2: MAX

S1: MAX / S2: MIN

F5: RANGE LOW (only when an expression pedal or other controller that changes values in a continuous, non-discrete way is set as the source)

This sets the minimum for the range in which the value of the setting can be changed.

F6: RANGE HIGH (only when an expression pedal or other controller that changes values in a continuous, non-discrete way is set as the source)

This sets the maximum for the range in which the value of the setting can be changed.

7 Chapter

MOMENT

The parameter switches to the maximum value only while the switch is held down, and switches to the minimum value when the switch is released.

The value alternately switches between LATCHmaximum and minimum each time the

switch is pressed.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

About the Range of Targets??? Change

The target???s value changes between MIN (the minimum value) and MAX (the maximum value).

When a foot switch or other controller that switches settings on and off is used, OFF sets the minimum value and ON sets the maximum value.

Value

Footswitch

When an expression pedal or other controller that changes values in a consecutive manner is used, the value changes within the range between MIN and MAX.

EXP Pedal

When an expression pedal or other controller that changes values in a consecutive manner is used to control a two-value (On/Off) parameter, the controller functions as shown below.

Value

ON

About the Range of Controllers??? Change

This sets the operational range (range in which the value actually changes) for an expression pedal, or similar controller that changes the value of a setting in a continuous fashion, when it has been set as the source.

If the controller adjustment moves beyond the enabled range of operation, the value of the setting remains at the maximum value or minimum value, without changing any further.

4.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Activating the Virtual Expression

Pedal at the Start of Operations

(Internal Pedal System)

The VB-99 features a function called Internal Pedal system. This function assigns specified parameters to a virtual expression pedal (the internal pedal), providing an effect automatically that changes volume and tone in real time just the way an expression pedal functions.

The Internal Pedal system features the following two functions, allowing you to set Source for each assign 1-16 (p. 78) of the Control Assign (p. 77).

???Internal Pedal

???Wave Pedal

*When the Internal Pedal or the Wave Pedal is used, set the ASSIGN SW MODE to MOMENT.

Internal Pedal

With the trigger you have set, the assumed expression pedal starts working. If you have set INTERNAL PEDAL to SOURCE, set the TRIGGR parameter (p. 141).

For more detailed information on the parameters that can be set using INTERNAL PEDAL, refer to ???TRIGGR (Trigger)??? (p. 141), ???TIME??? (p. 141), and ???CURVE??? (p. 141).

Wave Pedal

This changes the parameter selected as a target in a certain cycle with the assumed expression pedal. When you have set WAVE PEDAL for SOURCE, the RATE parameter (p. 141) and FORM parameter (p.

141)should be set.

For more detailed information on the parameters that can be set using WAVE PEDAL, refer to ???RATE??? (p. 141) and ???FORM??? (p. 141).

One Touch Call Up of Favorite

Patches (DIRECT PATCH)

You can assign your favorite patches to the [DIRECT PATCH 1] ??? [DIRECT PATCH 5] buttons, then call up these patches just by pressing the buttons.

Setting DIRECT PATCH

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

3.Press [F2] (DIRECT).

The DIRECT PATCH screen appears.

4.Use the F1???F5 knobs to select the patches to be assigned to [DIRECT PATCH 1]???

[DIRECT PATCH 5].

The numbers correspond, with DIR. PATCH 1 assigned with

the F1 knob, DIR. PATCH 2 assigned with the F2 knob, and so

on.

5. Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play

screen. Chapter7

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Managing the Patches

Saving and Copying Patches

(PATCH WRITE)

To save any changes you???ve made in the settings, you need to perform the write procedure.

To make a copy of an existing patch, you can simply write it to another patch location.

1.Press [WRITE].

The PATCH WRITE screen appears.

???WRITE TO??? is displayed, and the write-destination patch number and name are indicated.

2.Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the copy- destination patch.

3.Press [WRITE] again.

The message ???NOW WRITING...??? is displayed as the patch is copied, and the VB-99 changes to the copy-destination patch number.

*If you are not saving the settings, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Exchanging the Current Patch with a Different Patch (PATCH

EXCHANGE)

This exchanges the user patch with the different patch.

*You cannot exchange tones in preset patches.

1.Confirm that a User patch is selected.

2.Press [WRITE].

3.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 2.

???EXCHANGE??? is displayed.

The exchange-destination patch number and name are

indicated.

4.Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the exchange-destination patch.

5.Press [WRITE] again.

The message ???NOW EXCHANGING...??? is displayed as the current patch and the selected patch are exchanged, and the VB- 99 changes to the exchange-destination patch number.

*If you do not want to exchange the patches, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Initializing User Patches

(PATCH INITIALIZE)

You can set user patches to their initial conditions, with all effects switched off.

This is convenient when you want to create a patch from scratch.

*You cannot initialize preset patches.

1.Confirm that a User patch is selected.

2.Press [WRITE].

3.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 3.

The PATCH INITIALIZE screen appears.

???INITIALIZE??? is displayed, and the number and name of the patch to be initialized are indicated.

4.Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the patch you want to initialize.

5.Press [WRITE] again.

The message ???NOW INITIALIZING...??? is displayed as the VB- 99 switches to the patch to be initialized, then the Play screen returns.

*If you do not want to initialize the patch, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Copying Settings Between Channel

A and Channel B (A/B COPY)

1.Go to the settings screen for the parameters whose settings you want to copy.

2.Press PAGE [ ] several times to go to the last page.

3.Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select A/B COPY.

4.Press [F6] (EXEC) to copy the settings.

5.If you want to save the edited settings,

perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Exchanging the Channel A and

Channel B Settings

(A/B EXCHANGE)

4.Press [F6] (EXEC) to exchange the settings.

5.If you want to save the edited settings,

perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Partially Copying Parameters in

a Different Patch (MODULE COPY)

You can copy and reuse portions of patch parameters (such as

COSM amps, effects, and other modules).

1.Go to the settings screen for the parameters whose settings you want to copy.

2.Press PAGE [ ] several times to go to the last page.

3.Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select

MODULE COPY.

The MODULE COPY screen appears.

4.Use [F2] (PATCH) or the F2 knob and [F3] (SOURCE) or the F3 knob to select the copy source.

5.Press [F6] (EXEC) to copy the settings.

6.If you want to save the edited settings,

perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Partially Initializing Patch

Parameters (MODULE INITIALIZE)

1.Go to the settings screen for the parameter whose settings you want to initialize.

2.Press PAGE [ ] several times to go to the last page.

3.Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select

MODULE INIT.

The MODULE INITIALIZE screen appears.

4.Press [F6] (EXEC) to initialize the settings.

5.If you want to save the edited settings,

perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

The following parameters can be handled as modules.

???COSM BASS

???POLY FX

???Overall FX for Channel A and B

???Each of the effects in FX

???COSM AMP

???MIXER section DELAY and REVERB

???MIXER section DYNAMIC

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Separating Patches into Groups (CATEGORY)

The VB-99 includes a function that allows you to categorize patches into a number of different groups. This is called the CATEGORY function. Specifying the category for each patch makes searching for patches more convenient. The CATEGORY function also features ten user categories you can name however you like.

Using CATEGORY to Call Up Patches

1.Confirm that the Play screen is displayed.

2.Press [CATEGORY].

The Category screen appears.

The categories and the patches in these categories are shown in list format.

3.Use [F1] (SEL ) and [F2] (SEL ) or the F1 and F2 knobs to select the category.

4.Use the PATCH/VALUE dial or [F3] (SEL ), [F4] (SEL ) to select a patch.

5.Press [CATEGORY] again.

The VB-99 switches to the selected patch.

If no operation if performed within a set period of time,

the display returns to the Play screen.

Assigning a Patch to a Category

You can assign categories to patches and separate them into groups.

1.From the PLAY screen, use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the patch you want to include in a category.

2.Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

3.Press [F1] (NAME).

The Name settings screen appears.

4.Press [F6] (CATGRY).

The Category settings popup appears.

5.Use the F6 knob to select the category.

6.Press [EXIT].

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Naming User Categories

(CATEGORY NAME)

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2.

3.Press [F5] (CATGRY).

The Category Name settings screen appears.

4.Use [F6] or the F6 knob to select User Category with the name you want to change.

5.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to the position with the character you want to change.

6.Select the character with the PATCH/VALUE

dial.

As you continue to rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial, the character guide automatically switches from uppercase letters to lowercase letters, numerals, and symbols.

You can carry out the following operations by pressing [F1]??? [F6].

7.Repeat Steps 6 and 7 to complete the category name.

8.Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play

screen.

*Category names are system parameters. They are saved at the time they are entered, even without the Write procedure.

Storing Your Preferred

Settings Individually

(FAVORITE SETTINGS)

What are Favorite Settings?

The VB-99 includes a function that, apart from the patches, stores the settings you like for each effects processor. These are called Favorite Settings.

By storing the settings you like for each of a variety of effects processors, you can then easily create sounds simply by combining these settings.

Furthermore, creating patches using the Favorite Settings vastly simplifies editing when multiple similar tones are used.

For example, if you beforehand select the same Favorite Settings for a multiple number of patches, you???ll later be able to implement changes in all those patches at once simply by editing the Favorite settings.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Calling Up Favorite Settings

Here is an example using the compressor effect.

1.Press [FX].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

3.Press [F1] (COMP).

4.Press PAGE [ ] to display the last page (in this case, Page 3).

5.Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select

FAVORITE.

The FAVORITE screen appears.

6.Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob to select your preferred setting.

7.When you have made your choice, press [F6] (OK); to cancel the procedure, press [F5] (CANCEL) or press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

8.If you want to save the edited settings, perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Changing Tone Settings

This procedure changes the tones in patches using the Favorite Settings. The method below can also be used to edit the Favorite Settings themselves.

Here is an example using the compressor effect.

1.Press [FX].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

3.Press [F1] (COMP).

The number and name of the currently selected Favorite

Settings are displayed.

4.Press [F6] (EDIT).

5. Use [F1]???[F4] or the F1???F4 knobs to adjust the desired parameters on Pages 1 and 2.

the steps described next.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Saving Changed Tones

There are two methods you can use to save changed tones.

Saving to Patches

1.Press [WRITE].

The PATCH WRITE screen appears.

2.Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the save- destination patch.

3.Press [WRITE].

???NOW WRITING...??? is displayed as the patch is being saved, and then the Play screen returns to the display.

Saving tones with this process undoes the link between the patch and the Favorite Settings. Afterwards, any changes to tones with Favorite Settings used earlier will not be reflected in the tone for this patch.

Saving to the Favorite Settings

The following describes an example with the status indicated in the

Compressor edit screen in Step 4 of ???Changing Tone Settings??? (p.

87).

1.Press PAGE [ ] to display the last page (in this case, Page 3).

2.Rotate the F1 (SELECT) knob to select

FAVORITE WRITE.

The FAV WRITE screen appears.

3.Rotate the F2 (SELECT) knob to select the write destination.

At this point, you can press [F3] (SEARCH) to display a list of patches using the write-destination Favorite Settings. For more detailed information, refer to

???Searching for Patches That Use the Same Favorite

Settings??? (p. 89).

4.Press [F6] (WRITE) to save the settings.

???NOW WRITING...??? is displayed as the Favorite Settings are being saved, and the number and name of the currently selected Favorite Settings are displayed.

5.Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

This procedure only saves information to the Favorite Settings. Nothing is saved to the patches. To save parameters to patches, carry out the Write procedure. (p. 34)

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Naming Favorite Settings

(FAVORITE NAME)

When storing Favorite Settings, you can also give the settings names.

Carry out the following procedure in Step 2 of ???Saving to the

Favorite Settings??? (p. 88).

1.Press [F5] (NAME).

The Name edit screen appears.

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to the position with the character you want to enter.

3.Select the character with the PATCH/VALUE

dial.

As you continue to rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial, the character guide automatically switches from uppercase letters to lowercase letters, numerals, and symbols.

You can carry out the following operations by pressing [F1]??? [F5].

4.Repeat Steps 2 and 3 to complete the Favorite Setting name.

5.When you have finished editing the name,

press [EXIT].

The Favorite Settings save screen returns to the display.

6.Press [F6] (WRITE); the settings are saved.

7.Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

Searching for Patches That Use the Same Favorite Settings

Here is an example using the compressor effect.

1.Press [FX].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

3.Press [F1] (COMP).

The number and name of the currently selected Favorite Settings are displayed.

If not using the Favorite Settings, proceed to Step 4.

4.Press [F6] (EDIT).

5.Press PAGE [ ] to display the last page (in this case, Page 3).

6.Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select

FAVORITE WRITE.

The FAV WRITE screen appears.

7.Rotate F2 (SELECT) to select the Favorite Settings you want to search for.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

8.Press [F3] (SEARCH).

A list of patches using the selected Favorite Setting is displayed.

9.You can scroll through the list using [F3] and [F4] or the F3 and F4 knobs.

10.Press [F5] (EXIT).

The list disappears from the screen.

11.Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

Controlling Video Images with Your Bass (V-LINK)

The VB-99 features the V-LINK function.

With the VB-99 connected to another V-LINK compatible device, you can use your bass performance to control playback of video images.

What is V-LINK?

V-LINK is a function that synchronizes the performance of music and video.

Connecting V-LINK compatible devices to each other via MIDI makes it simple to enjoy using a variety of video effects linked with what you express in your performances.

For example, combining the VB-99 with the EDIROL motion dive

.tokyo performance package lets you do the following.

???Set the required information for motion dive .tokyo performance package performances.

???Switch motion dive .tokyo performance package video images (palettes/clips) and control the video brightness and hue.

???Enjoy synchronized performances of music and video.

Be sure also to read the owner???s manual for the connected V-LINK compatible device.

Connecting the V-LINK Device

Connect the VB-99???s MIDI OUT connector to the V-LINK compatible device.

When connecting these and other devices, turn down the volume completely on all the devices and turn off their power before connecting to prevent malfunction and damage to speakers and other equipment.

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

V-LINK Compatible Device (EDIROL P-10, MD-P1 or CG-8 etc.)

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Switching V-LINK On and Off

1.Connect the VB-99???s MIDI OUT connector to the V-LINK compatible device.

2.Turn on the power to the device to start it up.

3.Press [V-LINK].

V-LINK is switched on, and [V-LINK] lights up.

The function set in ???Setting V-LINK??? (p. 91) is enabled, allowing you to control the video images and have them linked with the performance on the VB-99.

Even with V-LINK on, the VB-99 operates as normal.

Depending on the settings in ???MIDI ROUTING??? (p. 53), signals may not be output from MIDI OUT. In such cases, V-LINK signals are not output either.

4.Press [V-LINK] once more.

The [V-LINK] light goes off, and the V-LINK function is

switched off.

When the V-LINK function is switched off, all V-LINK-

related MIDI messages are no longer output.

Setting V-LINK

Making the Palette and Clip Settings (PALETTE/CLIP)

This sets the Program Change messages transmitted when patches

are switched.

You can set different Program Changes in Channel A and Channel B.

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2.

3.Press [F4] (V-LINK).

The V-LINK screen appears.

4.Press [F1] (CLIP).

The PATCH/CLIP screen appears.

5.Use [F1] and [F2] or the F1 or F2 knobs to set the palette and clip for V-LINK Channel A; set the palette and clip for V-LINK Channel B with [F4] and [F5] or the F4 or F5 knobs.

Setting the String Channel (STRING CH)

This setting determines which of the V-LINK device???s channels is used in controlling the note messages output when a string is played. This can be set individually for each string.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Making the Palette and Clip Settings (PALETTE/CLIP)??? (p. 91) to display the V-LINK screen.

2.Press [F4] (STR CH) to select the channel to be controlled with each string.

Some V-LINK compatible models such as the EDIROL DV-7PR allow only Channel A to be used.

Note messages output with the V-LINK function are affected by the parameters set in ???Playing an External

Synthesizer Sound Module (BASS TO MIDI)??? (p. 58) as

well as the STRING CH settings.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Setting the Assign (ASSIGN1???2)

These settings are necessary for controlling video using the bass???s performance data and messages from the VB-99???s controllers. You can make up to two types of settings.

1.Follow Steps 1???3 in ???Making the Palette and Clip Settings (PALETTE/CLIP)??? (p. 91) to display the V-LINK screen.

2.Press [F2] (ASGN1) or [F3] (ASGN2) to select Assign 1 or Assign 2.

3.Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to set the source to be used in operating the target.

4.Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob to set the target.

For more on the source and target parameters, refer to ???V-LINK

PATCH??? (p. 153).

5.Rotate the F3 knob to set the minimum value for the TARGET parameter???s control range.

6.Rotate the F4 knob to set the maximum value for the TARGET parameter???s control range.

7.If you want to save the edited settings,

perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

*If you do not want to save, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Using the VB-99 on a Stand

You can use the VB-99 while attached to a PDS-10 stand (optional).

1.Turn the VB-99 over and remove the screws from the bottom panel.

2.Attach the mounting plate as shown in the figure, using the screws removed in Step 1 or the knob nuts included with the kit.

3.Attach the VB-99 to the stand.

For instructions on how to assemble the PDS-10 and attach the mounting plate, refer to the Owner???s Manual that came with the PDS-10.

928, 929

???To prevent the PDS-10 stand from falling, use the attached cable ties to wind all cables around the stand, as shown in the figure below.

Cable tie

???Use the screws (M5 x 10) included with the VB-99 to attach the PDS-10 mounting plate. Use of other screws may damage the device internally or cause the unit to be inadequately secured.

???When turning the unit over, place some newspapers, magazines, or other such material under the four corners or at both ends to prevent damage to the buttons, dials, and other controls. Also, try to orient the unit so no buttons or controls are damaged.

???When turning the unit upside-down, handle with care to avoid dropping it, or allowing it to fall or tip over.

???When removing the screws, be sure to keep them out of the reach of children to prevent smaller children from accidentally swallowing them.

???Take care not to allow hands and fingers to become pinched when attaching and removing the units.

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Chapter 7 Other Functions

Using the VB-99 Mounted in

a Rack

By employing the separately available RAD-99 rack mount adaptor ,

you can use the VB-99 in a rack-mounted configuration.

1.Turn the VB-99 over and remove the screws from the bottom panel.

2.Attach the RAD-99 as shown in the figure, using the screws removed in Step 1 or the knob nuts included with the kit.

3.Mount the VB-99 in the rack.

Use screws (in four places) to securely affix the unit to the rack.

*Use the screws included with the rack.

For instructions on how to assemble the RAD-99 and

adjust the angle of attachment, refer to the RAD-99

Owner???s Manual.

928, 929

???Use the screws (M5 x 10) included with the VB-99 to attach the RAD-99. Use of other screws may damage the device internally or cause the unit to be inadequately secured.

???When turning the unit over, place some newspapers, magazines, or other such material under the four corners or at both ends to prevent damage to the buttons, dials, and other controls. Also, try to orient the unit so no buttons or controls are damaged.

???When turning the unit upside-down, handle with care to avoid dropping it, or allowing it to fall or tip over.

???When removing the screws, be sure to keep them out of the reach of children to prevent smaller children from accidentally swallowing them.

???Take care not to allow hands and fingers to become pinched when attaching and removing the units.

94

Restoring the VB-99 to its Original Factory Condition

(FACTORY RESET)

1.Press [SYSTEM].

2.Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 3.

3.Press [F2] (F.RST).

The FACTORY RESET screen appears.

4.Select the parameters you want to restore to the original factory condition.

5.Press [F6] (EXEC).

6.To execute Factory Reset, press [WRITE].

*To cancel Factory Reset, press [EXIT].

When Factory Reset is completed, the display returns to the Play screen.

Chapter 7 Other Functions

7 Chapter

95

Chapter 8 Parameters Guide

In this chapter you???ll find detailed descriptions for each of the VB-99???s operational parameters.

The trademarks listed in this document are trademarks of their respective owners, which are separate companies from Roland. Those companies are not affiliated with Roland and have not licensed or authorized Roland???s VB-99.

Their marks are used solely to identify the equipment whose sound is simulated by Roland???s VB-99.

COSM BASS

The COSM BASS section provides a rich array of settings that allow you to produce an enormous variety of instrument tones. In addition to traditional bass parameters???such as settings for the pickup, body, and string tuning???you can also produce tones not normally available from a bass guitar, including synthesizer and electric guitar sounds.

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

COSM BASS SW

Turns the COSM bass on/off.

COSM bass configuration

DIVIDED PU

NORMAL PU

COSM BASS

SW

Modeling Type List

E. BASS TYPE (Electric Bass Type)

96

SYNTH TYPE (Synthesizer Type)

E.GTR TYPE (Electric Guitar Type)

8 Chapter

97

E.BASS (Electric Bass)

Parameters for the various electric bass models.

VINT JB/JB/T-BIRD

VINT PB/PB

M-MAN

RICK

ACTIVE

98

VIOLIN

VARI

REAR PU (Rear Pickup),

FRONT PU (Front Pickup)

TYPE

Specify the type of pickup.

PHASE

Specify the phase of the pickup when mixing the front and rear pick- ups.

*1 Setting available with CTL TYPE set to 2V2T or 2V1T. *2 Setting available with CTL TYPE set to BAL or 2BAND. *3 Setting available with CTL TYPE set to 2V2T.

*4 Setting available with CTL TYPE set to 2V1T or BAL. *5 Setting available with CTL TYPE set to 2BAND.

8 Chapter

99

AC BASS (Acoustic Bass)

Parameters for the acoustic bass model.

SYNTH (Synthesizer)

Parameters for the synthesizer sound.

ANALOG GR

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

MASTER LEVEL

MODE

This setting determines whether the HEXA-VCO (sawtooth wave) or the HEXA-DISTORTION (rectangular wave) is played, or if both are played.

CUTOFF FREQ (Cutoff Frequency)

ENV MOD (Envelope Modulation)

This automatically changes the VCF cutoff frequency according to the amplitude of the string vibration. This allows you to change the tone with a wah-like effect each time you pick a string.

SW

100

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

PITCH A/PITCH A FINE,

PITCH B/PITCH B FINE

These parameters adjust the amount of pitch shift.

*This is enabled when the PITCH SW parameter is set to anything other than OFF.

*The final amount of shift in the pitch is the sum of the pitch shift set with PITCH and PITCH FINE.

PITCH SW

This setting allows you to switch on and off the pitch shift, which en- ables the pitch of the HEXA-VCO sound to shift in response to the pitch of the sound caused by the string???s vibration.

*PITCH SHIFT is applied only to the HEXA-VCO, not the HEXA- DISTORTION. Set MODE to VCO or V+D when using the pitch shift function.

SWEEP

This SWEEP function smoothly changes the amount of pitch shift when the amount of pitch shift is changed with PITCH SW.

SW

You can apply an electronic vibrato effect to the HEXA-VCO.

SW

*When ANALOG GR has been selected for COSM BASS, using SHIFT, HARMO, or BEND to make settings that shift the pitch in an extreme way may make sound generation unstable.

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101

WAVE SYNTH

OSC SYNTH

102

SUB OSC

Adds depth to the sound by layering a synth sound onto each string.

FILTER

BOWED/PIPE

POWER BEND

A higher setting results in a darker sound. At the same time, the tone and volume also change with respect to fluctuations in pitch pro- duced by vibrato or other techniques.

8 Chapter

103

CRYSTL

ORGAN

BRASS

104

E.GTR (Electric Guitar)

Parameters for the electric guitar models.

ST

LP

COSM BASS Common

Parameters

Besides the other COSM BASS parameters, the VB-99 also includes the following shared parameters.

EQ

A four-band equalizer with high and low ranges is provided.

8 Chapter

105

PITCH

SHIFT MODE (Pitch Shift Mode)

Selects the operation of pitch shift.

This KEY parameter is the same as the Key setting in the [NAME/KEY/BPM] section (p. 142) and FX MOD1, 2 HARMONIST.

Altering either one changes the key.

HARMO (Harmony) *1

SHIFT HiC, 1???4th, LowB *2

*2 Setting available with SHIFT MODE set to SHIFT.

*3 Setting available with HARMO set to USER.

*4 Setting available when MODLNG TYPE for COSM BASS is set to E.BASS, AC BASS, or SYNTH.

*5 Setting available when MODLNG TYPE for COSM BASS is set to E.GTR.

*When ANALOG GR has been selected for COSM BASS, using SHIFT, HARMO, or BEND to make settings that shift the pitch in an extreme way may make sound generation unstable.

Creating Harmony Scales (User Harmony)

When HARMO is set to any value from -2oct to +2oct, and the harmony does not sound the way you intend, use a User harmony. You can set the corresponding pitches to be output for each input pitch.

1.Set HARMO to USER in the Harmony screen.

2.Press PAGE [ ] .

The User Harmony screen appears.

fig.04-0100d

3.Use PAGE [ ] [ ], [F1]???[F6], and the F1???F6 knob to set the amount of pitch shift for each voice.

106

MIX

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

STRING PAN HiC, 1???4th, LowB

STRING LEVEL HiC, 1???4th, LowB

NS (Noise Suppressor) *1

This effect reduces the noise and hum picked up by bass pickups. Since it suppresses the noise in synchronization with the envelope of the bass sound (the way in which the bass sound decays over time), it has very little effect on the overall sound, and does not harm its the natural character.

SW (Noise Suppressor Switch)

*1 Setting available when MODLNG TYPE for COSM BASS is set to E.BASS, AC BASS, or E.GTR.

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107

POLY FX (Poly Effect)

Parameter/

POLY LIMITR (Poly Limiter)

Range

Explanation

POLYFX SW (Poly Effect Switch)

TYPE

This lets you apply an independent limiter for each string. The limiter suppresses the volume of sounds that exceed the threshold setting.

POLY COMP

POLY LIMITR

POLY DEFRET

POLY DIST

POLY EQ

POLY OCTAVE

POLY RING

POLY SG

STRING MODLNG

Select the poly effect type.

*The parameters that can be set differ with each type. Refer to each of the parameters cited later.

POLYFX CH (Poly Effect Channel)

POLY COMP (Poly Compressor)

The Poly Compressor attenuates loud input levels and boosts soft input levels, thus evening out the volume to create sustain without distortion. With the Poly Compressor, compression is applied separately to each string.

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

COMP SUSTAIN HiC, 1???4th, LowB (Compressor Sustain)

COMP ATTACK HiC, 1???4th, LowB (Compressor Attack)

COMP TONE HiC, 1???4th, LowB (Compressor Tone)

COMP LEVEL HiC, 1???4th, LowB (Compressor Level)

108

POLY DEFRET (Poly Defretter)

This changes the sound of a fretted bass guitar to make it resemble a fretless bass guitar.

POLY DIST (Poly Distortion)

You can individually distort the sound of each string to get a sound that can be played chordally without breaking up.

POLY EQ (Poly Equalizer)

Each string is provided with its own four-band equalizer, allowing you to achieve the right tone by boosting or cutting any of the four bands. The tone can be adjusted independently for each string.

LOW MID FREQ HiC, 1???4th, LowB (Low Middle Frequency)

LOW MID Q HiC, 1???4th, LowB (Low Middle Q)

LOW MID GAIN HiC, 1???4th, LowB (Low Middle Gain)

HIGH MID FREQ HiC, 1???4th, LowB (High Middle Frequency)

HIGH MID Q HiC, 1???4th, LowB (High Middle Q)

HIGH MID GAIN HiC, 1???4th, LowB (High Middle Gain)

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109

POLY OCTAVE (Poly Octave)

This supports playing technique related to octaves.

POLY RING

(Poly Ring Modulator)

This enables you to mix the internal oscillator with the input sound and apply a ring modulator independently for each string, creating a sound with pitchless metallic reverberations.

Parameter/

POLY SG (Poly Slow Gear)

This creates a volume-swell (violin-like) effect independently for each string.

STRING MODLNG

(String Modeling)

This converts the sound of a bass guitar strung with round-wound

Range

Explanation

strings to the sound of a bass with flat wound or black nylon strings. COSM BASS settings other than E.BASS may not produce the expect-

MODE

This selects the operation of the ring modulator.

This effect makes the effect sound of the ring modulator more extreme.

DRIVE

ed results.

110

FX (Effects)

COMP (Compressor)

This is an effect that attenuates loud input levels and boosts soft input levels, thus evening out the volume to create sustain without distortion. Many different types of compression are provided, including digital models of vintage compressors, as well as limiters that suppress only the sound peaks.

111

OD/DS (Overdrive/Distortion)

This effect distorts the sound to create long sustain.

12 different types of overdrive/distortion are provided.

TYPE

Selects the type of distortion.

EQ (Equalizer)

The EQ is a powerful sound-shaping tool, with four frequency bands and low cut and high cut filters. A parametric-type EQ is provided for the high-middle and low-middle ranges.

112

DELAY

This effect adds delayed sound to the direct sound, great for adding more body to the sound or for creating special effects.

DUAL-P (Dual Paral- This is a delay comprising two delays con- lel)nected in parallel. Each delay time can be set

in a range from 1 ms to 900 ms.

*For more detail the operation, refer to ???Using the HOLD (Hold Delay)??? (p. 115).

*If you switch patches with the TYPE set to either DUAL-S, DUAL-P, or DUAL L/R and then begin to play immediately after the patches change, you may be unable to attain the intended effect in the first portion of what you perform.

*The stereo effect is cancelled if a monaural effect or COSM amp is connected after a stereo delay effect.

DELAY Common Parameters

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

*After setting DELAY TIME to BPM ( ??? ), if you tap [F1] (TAP), the BPM value will change to match the timing of your tapping.

*1 The DELAY TIME, FEEDBACK, HIGH CUT, and EFFECT LEVEL are not enabled when the TYPE is set to DUAL-S, DUAL-P, or DUAL-L/R.

8 Chapter

RISE TIME

113

PAN

DUAL-S, DUAL-P, DUAL-L/R

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

*After setting DELAY TIME to BPM ( ??? ), if you tap [F1] (TAP), the BPM value will change to match the timing of your tapping.

DELAY1 FEEDBACK

WARP

MOD

114

Using the HOLD (Hold Delay)

*Recording and playback of performances and other operations are carried out with pedals while Hold is in effect. Connect external pedals (footswitches) or an FC-300.

1.Referring to ???Using the Switches, Pedals, and MIDI to Control the Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)??? (p. 77), assign the following functions to the connected external pedals (footswitches) or FC-300 CTL pedals.

2.Set TYPE to HOLD in the Delay screen.

3.Press the pedal to which REC is assigned.

Recording starts when you press the pedal.

4.Press the pedal to which REC is assigned again to stop recording.

*The maximum recording time is 10 seconds. If the recording time exceeds 10 seconds, the recording stops automatically, and the recorded content is then played back.

*An oscillating sound may be audible with extremely short recording times.

5.When layering recordings, repeat Steps 4 and 5.

*The recorded content is cleared when the TYPE or patch is switched to a different setting or when the power is turned off.

6.To return to recording standby, press the pedal to which STOP is assigned.

The unit returns to recording standby.

*When playback is stopped, the recorded content is erased.

*You can also set REC SW MODE to MOMENT.

If you use this setting, be sure to keep the pedal held down during recording.

CHORUS

In this effect, a slightly detuned sound is added to the original sound to add depth and breadth.

CHORUS MODE

Selection for the chorus mode.

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

DEPTH

8 Chapter

115

Adjusts the volume of the direct sound.
DIRECT LEVEL
0???100
Adjusts the volume of the phaser.
EFFECT LEVEL
0???100
STEP RATE
OFF, 0???100,This sets the cycle of the step function that
BPM ???BPM changes the rotation. When it is set to a high- er value, the change will be finer. Set this to
Off when not using the Step function.
When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.
* If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.
0???100
Determines the amount of resonance (feed- back).
Increasing the value will emphasize the ef- fect, creating a more unusual sound.
RESO (Resonance)
0???100
Adjusts the center frequency of the rotation effect.
MANUAL
Determines the depth of the rotation effect.
DEPTH
0???100

MOD1, MOD2

For MOD1 and MOD2, you can choose one of the following effect types. (If desired, you can select the same effect for both MOD1 and

PHASER

By adding varied-phase portions to the direct sound, the phaser effect gives a whooshing, swirling character to the sound.

Parameter/

MOD2.)

MOD TYPE

Range

TYPE

Explanation

Selects the number of stages that the phaser effect will use.

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

116

FLANGER

The flanging effect gives a twisting, jet-airplane-like character to the sound.

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

DEPTH

TREML (Tremolo)

Tremolo is an effect that creates a cyclic change in volume.

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

DEPTH

PAN

This is a stereo effect that pans the sound alternately between the left and right outputs, making the sound fly back and forth between the speakers.

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

DEPTH

*The pan effect is cancelled if a monaural effect or COSM amp is connected after the COSM bass.

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117

PEDAL WAH

This is a wah effect that you control in real time by adjusting the EXP pedal connected to the EXP PEDAL jack or an FC-300 EXP pedal.

T.WAH (Touch Wah)

This is an automatic wah effect where the filter changes in response to the bass level.

POLARITY

Selects the direction in which the filter will change in response to the input.

PEAK

Higher values will produce a stronger tone which emphasizes the wah effect more.

118

AUTO WAH

This filters the sound over a periodic cycle, providing an automatic wah effect.

Parameter/

M-TRON III

This models a Musitronics Mu-Tron III. Filter movement corresponds to the intensity of the input, producing a touch-wah sound suited to funk.

Range

Explanation

The original used monaural input and output, but on the VB-99 this is enhanced to stereo input and output.

MODE

Selects the wah mode.

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

DEPTH

MODE

This chooses the type of filter.

DRIVE

This chooses the direction of filter movement during the attack.

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119

OCTAVE

This adds a note one octave lower, creating a richer sound.

*Because of the need to analyze the pitch, chords (two or more sounds played simultaneously) cannot be played.

PITCH SHIFT (Pitch Shifter)

This effect changes the pitch of the original sound (up or down) within a range of two octaves.

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

VOICE

Selects the number of voices for the pitch shift sound.

PITCH SHIFT1, PITCH SHIFT2

MODE1, MODE2 *1

Selection for the pitch shifter mode.

PITCH 1, PITCH2 *1

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

FEEDBACK1

*1 With VOICE set to 2MONO or 2ST, you can select two sounds.

120

HARMONIST

Harmonist is a pitch-shift effect where the amount of shifting is adjusted according to an analysis of the bass input, allowing you to create harmonies based on diatonic scales.

*Because of the need to analyze the pitch, chords (two or more sounds played simultaneously) cannot be played.

*You cannot use the Harmonist effect with audio input via USB IN.

This KEY parameter is the same as the Key setting in the [NAME/KEY/BPM] section (p. 142) and FX MOD1, 2 HARMONIST. Altering either one changes the key.

The key setting corresponds to the key of the song (#, b) as follows.

VOICE

Selects the number of voices for the pitch shift sound.

1VOICEOne-voice pitch-shifted sound output in monaural.

HARMONY1, HARMONY2 *1

HARM1, HARM2 (Harmony) *1

This determines the pitch of the sound added to the input sound, when you are making a harmony.

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

LEVEL1, LEVEL2 *1

*2 VOICE1 INTERVAL (VOICE2 INTERVAL) is enabled when HARM1 (HARM2) is set to USER.

Creating Harmonist Scales

(Voice Interval)

When HARM is set to any value from -2oct to +2oct, and the harmony does not sound the way you intend, use a voice interval. You can set the corresponding pitches to be output for each input pitch.

1.Set HARM1 (or HARM2) to USER in the Harmonist screen.

2.Select VOICE1 INTERVAL (or VOICE2 INTERVAL) with PAGE [ ].

The Voice Interval screen appears.

fig.04-0100d

3.Use PAGE [ ] [ ], [F1]???[F6], and the F1???F6 knob to set the amount of pitch shift for each voice.

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Adjusts the delay of the effect sound in the low-frequency range.
Extending the pre-delay will produce the sensation of multiple sounds (doubling ef- fect).
Adjusts the volume of the effect sound in the low-frequency range.
Adjust the speed of the chorus effect for the high frequency range.
This sets the frequency dividing the low- and high-frequency ranges.
Adjust the speed of the chorus effect for the low frequency range.

PEDAL BEND

This lets you use a pedal to get a pitch bend effect.

*Because of the need to analyze the pitch, chords (two or more sounds played simultaneously) cannot be played.

2x2 CHORUS

Frequency band division is employed to produce two different choruses, one for low frequencies and one for higher frequencies, for both the left and right channels (for a total of four). This allows you to achieve a natural chorus sound.

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

X-OVER FREQ (Crossover Frequency)

100 Hz???4.00 kHz

LOW RATE

0???100,

BPM ???BPM

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

LOW DEPTH

LOW PREDLY (Low Pre Delay)

0.0 ms???40.0 ms

LOW LEVEL

0???100

HIGH RATE

0???100,

BPM ???BPM

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

HIGH DEPTH

122

Explanation
Select the slice pattern that will be used to cut the sound.
Adjust the rate at which the sound will be cut.

ROTARY

This produces an effect like the sound of a rotary speaker.

When the Rate (SLOW) or Rate (FAST) set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) spec- ified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound set- tings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

RISE TIME

UNI-V

This models the sound of the Uni-vibe.

Although the same type of effect as a phaser, its characteristic feature is a unique twisting effect, which you can???t get from an ordinary phaser.

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

DEPTH

VIB (Vibrato)

This effect creates vibrato by slightly modulating the pitch.

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it eas- ier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

DEPTH

SLICER

This consecutively interrupts the sound to create the impression that a rhythm backing phrase is being played.

Parameter/

Range

PATTERN

P1???P20

RATE

0???100,

BPM ???BPM

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it eas- ier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

TRIG SENS (Trigger Sensitivity)

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123

Adjusts the sensitivity.
When set to a lower value, the humanizer ef- fect is only triggered with strong playing. When set to a higher value, the humanizer effect can be triggered with both weak and strong playing.
Adjusts the cycle for changing the two vow- els.

HUMANIZER

This creates human vowel-like sounds.

Parameter/

SLOW GEAR

This produces a volume-swell effect (???violin-like??? sound).

Range

Explanation

MODE

This sets the mode that switches the vowels.

RING MOD (Ring Modulator)

This creates a bell-like sound by ring-modulating the bass sound with the signal from the internal oscillator. The sound can be unmusical and lack distinctive pitches.

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

SENS (Sensitivity) *2

0???100

RATE

0???100,

BPM ???BPM

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

MANUAL *3

*1 Setting available with MODE set to PICK or AUTO.

*2 Setting available with MODE set to PICK.

*3 Setting available with MODE set to AUTO.

MODE

This selects the mode for the ring modulator.

ANTI FB (Anti-feedback)

This prevents the acoustic feedback that can be produced by the body resonances of an acoustic bass.

124

ADV.COMP (Advanced Compressor)

This is an effect that produces a long sustain by evening out the volume level of the input signal. You can also use it as a limiter to suppress only the sound peaks and prevent distortion.

LIMITR (Limiter)

The limiter attenuates loud input levels to prevent distortion.

ENHANCER

This is an effect that clarifies the contour of the input sound by em- phasizing the attack of the sound following changes in the input level.

125

PEQ (Parametric Equalizer)

Adjusts the tonal quality. You can adjust the sound quality in four bands.

GEQ (Graphic Equalizer)

This is a seven-band graphic equalizer that allows you to precisely ad- just tones by boosting/cutting any of the seven bands.

ParameterRange

This boosts or cuts the respective frequency bands.

120Hz 500Hz 4.5kHz

+20dB

0dB Frequency

-20dB

SUB DELAY

This is a delay with a maximum delay time of 400 ms. This effect is useful for making the sound fatter.

When set to BPM, the value of each parameter will be set according to the value of the BPM (p. 142) specified for each patch. This makes it easier to achieve effect sound settings that match the tempo of the song.

*If, due to the tempo, the time is longer than the range of allowable settings, it is then synchronized to a period either 1/2 or 1/4 of that time.

*After setting DELAY TIME to BPM ( ??? ), if you tap [F1] (TAP), the BPM value will change to match the timing of your tapping.

FEEDBACK

126

NS (Noise Suppressor)

This effect reduces the noise and hum picked up by bass pickups. Since it suppresses the noise in synchronization with the envelope of the bass sound (the way in which the bass sound decays over time), it has very little effect on the overall sound, and does not harm its the natural character.

*Please connect the noise suppressor in the signal path prior to the reverberation type effect. This setup will prevent an unnatural break of the reverberation effect.

FV (Foot Volume)

This is a volume control effect.

Normally, this is controlled with an expression pedal connected to the EXP PEDAL jack or one of the FC-300???s EXP pedals.

*When making the settings determining each pedal???s foot volume operations, refer to ???Setting the GK VOLUME Control and

Switch and the Pedal Function (SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN)??? (p. 42), ???Settings Related to the FC-300??? (p. 46).

Parameter/

Range

LEVEL

Explanation

DETECT

This controls the noise suppressor based on the volume level for the point specified in Detect.

VOL CURVE (Volume Curve)

You can select how the actual volume changes relative to the amount the pedal is pressed.

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COSM AMP

COSM technology simulates different preamp characteristics, speaker sizes, and cabinet shapes.

*You can make separate settings for Channel A and Channel B.

PREAMP TYPE

This sets the type of the bass preamp.

SUPER FLAT / AC BASS

FLIP TOP

B MAN

CONCRT 810

MIDDLE FREQ (Middle Frequency)

220Hz, 800Hz, 3.0kHz Specifies the center of the frequency range that will be adjusted by the MDDLE.

BRIGHT

Turns the bright setting on/off.

128

BASS 360

Parameter/

GTR AMP DRIVE / GTR AMP METAL

Range

Explanation

BRIGHT

Turns the bright setting on/off.

T.E.

SESSION

GAIN SW

LOW, MIDDLE, HIGH Provides for selection from three levels of distortion: LOW, MIDDLE, and HIGH. Dis- tortion will successively increase for set- tings of LOW, MIDDLE and HIGH.

* The sound of each Type is created on the basis that the Gain is set to MIDDLE. So, normally set it to MIDDLE.

SOLO SW

Speaker Settings

SUPER FLAT / FLIP TOP / B MAN / CONCRT 810 / BASS 360 / T.E. /

SESSION / AC BASS

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

BRIGHT

Turns the bright setting on/off.

GAIN SW

LOW, MIDDLE, HIGH Provides for selection from three levels of distortion: LOW, MIDDLE, and HIGH. Dis- tortion will successively increase for set- tings of LOW, MIDDLE and HIGH.

* The sound of each Type is created on the basis that the Gain is set to MIDDLE. So, normally set it to MIDDLE.

SOLO SW

SP TYPE (Speaker Type)

Select the speaker type.

MIC POS (Mic Position)

This simulates the microphone position.

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GTR AMP CLEAN / GTR AMP CRUNCH /

GTR AMP DRIVE / GTR AMP METAL

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

SP TYPE (Speaker Type)

Select the speaker type.

MIC TYPE

This setting selects the simulated mic type.

MIC DIS (Mic Distance)

Simulates the distance between the mic and speaker.

MIC POS (Mic Position)

This simulates the microphone position.

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Chapter 8 Parameter Guide

MIXER

MIXER

The mixer allows you to combine Channel A and Channel B together, adjust their relative levels and panning, and apply effects and EQ to the combined signals.

MIXER A, B (MIXER CHANNEL A, B)

V-BASS LEVEL

TOTAL EQ (Total Equalizer)

This adjusts the tone of the mixed signals from Channel A and Channel B. Parametric EQ is used for the low-middle and high- middle frequency ranges.

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OUTPUT

Parameter/

This setting determines the signal routing and level to the VB-99???s outputs.

Range

Explanation

Parameter/

D OUT (Digital Output)

This switches the signals output from the DIGITAL OUT.

Range

Explanation

MAIN OUT

This switches the signals output from the MAIN OUT.

This switches the signals output from the SUB OUT.

*The parameters enabled (MAIN OUT, MAIN LEVEL, SUB OUT, SUB LEVEL, D OUT, D OUT LEVEL) change according to the settings in ???OUTPUT MODE??? (p. 151) in the SYSTEM screen. When disabled, the value < > is given.

132

133

DYNAMIC

This function allows you use your playing dynamics to control the volume of the mix of the two channels. The volume and balance of the channels change according to the dynamics each time you pick the strings.

You can set the point at which the volume changes in the settings screen as you check the dynamics level shown by the meter.

The A/B BAL setting is disabled when DYNAMIC is switched on.

Parameter/

*1 Setting available when TYPE is set to DYNA A or DYNA B. *2 Setting available when TYPE is set to DYNA BAL.

With DYNAMIC, when a new note is detected, the peak level at the instant the string is picked (i.e., the playing dynamics) is

Range

Explanation

held momentarily, and control of the channel volume or balance is based on that value.

DYNA SW (Dynamic Switch)

TYPE

This sets the DYNAMIC type.

This setting determines the channel for which the volume is con- trolled with the playing dynamics.

DYNA AChannel A???s volume level is controlled. The volume in Channel B is fixed.

The playing dynamics controls the sound as described below.

???When the level is at or below the LOWER RNG setting, the playing controls the volume or balance of the softer sounds set in LOWER LEV (when TYPE is set to DYNA A or DYNA B) or LOWER BAL (when TYPE is set to DYNA BAL).

???When the level is at or above the UPPER RNG setting, the playing controls the volume or balance of the louder sounds set in UPPER LEV (when TYPE is set to DYNA A or DYNA B) or UPPER BAL (when TYPE is set to DYNA BAL).

???When the level is between these settings, the playing controls the volume or balance between the softer sounds and louder sounds described above (continuously changing the level according to the dynamics).

Changes made to the above parameters are indicated in the graph in the settings screen.

When TYPE is set to DYNA A or DYNA B

Volume/Balance

Control Status

LOWER RNG UPPER RNG

When TYPE is set to DYNA BAL

Volume/Balance

Control Status

LOWER RNG UPPER RNG

Changes made to the above parameters are indicated in the graph in the settings screen.

The input level and held peak input level are indicated beneath the graph display. Making these settings is easier by actually playing the strings as you watch the meter and adjust the LOWER RNG and UPPER RNG settings.

In addition, you can confirm the volume/balance control status with the fader displayed to the right of the graph.

134

MASTER

CONTROL ASSIGN

Adjust these settings if you would like to use a pedal connected to the VB-99, or an external MIDI device (control source) to control parameters as you play.

You can set two parameters as targets to each control source.

*Turn on the COSM bass, COSM amp, and effect that contains the parameter you wish to control.

GK VOL (GK Volume)

Parameter/

GK S1, S2

(DOWN/S1, UP/S2 Switch)

TARGET PARAMETER

Range

SW

Explanation

This selects the parameter to be changed.

MIN (Minimum)

TARGET PARAMETER

This selects the parameter to be changed.

MIN (Minimum)

This sets the minimum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

MAX (Maximum)

This sets the maximum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

RANGE LOW, RANGE HIGH

This sets the minimum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

MAX (Maximum)

This sets the maximum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

MODE

Specify how the value will change in response to an operation.

*When the DOWN/S1, UP/S2 POS of the GK SETTING is set to REVRSE position, the function of DOWN/S1, UP/S2 will be reversed.

*When KEY/BPM/AMPCTL:BPM TAP, FX???DELAY(HOLD)??? REC, or FX???DELAY(HOLD)???STOP is set for the TARGET PARAMETER, control is available regardless of whether DOWN/S1 or UP/S2 is pressed. In this case, the MODE setting is disabled.

135

PANEL CTL1/CTL2

(Control Button 1/2)

D BEAM

PITCH

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

TARGET PARAMETER

This selects the parameter to be changed.

MIN (Minimum)

This sets the minimum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

MAX (Maximum)

This sets the maximum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

PITCH TYPE

This selects the effect applied when [PITCH] is pressed.

Parameter/

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

Range

Explanation

PARAMETER.

*While you can set two different target parameters each to CTL1 and CTL2, the CTL1 and CTL2 buttons light when the value set in MAX for the first parameter set to either one is reached.

SW MODE (Switch Mode)

This sets the behavior of the value each time the switch is operated.

T-ARM CH (Tremolo Arm Channel)

This selects the channel to which the tremolo T-ARM is applied.

TYPE

This selects the T-ARM type.

DOWN MIN (Down Minimum)

DOWN MAX (Down Maximum)

136

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

FREEZE CH (Freeze Channel)

This selects the channel to which the FREEZE effect is applied.

FILTER

This passes only portions of the sound???s frequency ranges, giving the sound a unique tone. You can add different types of expression to the sound by changing the frequencies (pitches) that are passed.

Parameter/

ASSIGNABLE

TARGET PARAMETER

This selects the parameter to be changed.

MIN (Minimum)

This sets the minimum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

MAX (Maximum)

This sets the maximum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

SW MODE (Switch Mode) *1

This sets the behavior of the value each time the switch is operated.

Range

Explanation

FILTER CH (Filter Channel)

This selects the channel to which the filter is applied.

TYPE

This selects the filter type.

*1 Setting available with SOURCE set to D BEAM V.

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RIBBON

PITCH

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

T-ARM CH (Tremolo Arm Channel)

This selects the channel to which the tremolo T-ARM is applied.

TYPE

This selects the T-ARM type.

FILTER

This passes only portions of the sound???s frequency ranges, giving the sound a unique tone. You can add different types of expression to the sound by changing the frequencies (pitches) that are passed.

Parameter/

ASSIGNABLE

TARGET PARAMETER

This selects the parameter to be changed.

MIN (Minimum)

This sets the minimum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

MAX (Maximum)

This sets the maximum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

SW MODE (Switch Mode) *1

This sets the behavior of the value each time the switch is operated.

Range

Explanation

FILTER CH (Filter Channel)

This selects the channel to which the filter is applied.

TYPE

This selects the filter type.

*1 Setting available with SOURCE set to RIBBON ACT.

*2 Setting available with SOURCE set to RIBBON POS.

138

EXP PEDAL (Expression Pedal)

TARGET PARAMETER

This selects the parameter to be changed.

MIN (Minimum)

This sets the minimum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

MAX (Maximum)

This sets the maximum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

RANGE LOW, RANGE HIGH

CTL3, CTL4 (Control3, Control4)

TARGET PARAMETER

This selects the parameter to be changed.

MIN (Minimum)

This sets the minimum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

MAX (Maximum)

This sets the maximum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

SW MODE

This sets the behavior of the value each time the switch is operated.

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139

FC-300 CONTROL

The controllers (sources) controlling targets when an FC-300 is connected are shown below.

ASSIGN 1???16

You can freely assign functions to the VB-99???s and FC-300???s controllers.

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

*1 The types of parameters that can be set are the same as those described in ???EXP PEDAL (Expression Pedal)??? (p. 139).

*2 The types of parameters that can be set are the same as those described in ???CTL3, CTL4 (Control3, Control4)??? (p. 139).

*3 When an expression pedal is connected, the types of parameters that can be set are the same as those described in ???EXP PEDAL (Expression Pedal)??? (p. 139); when a footswitch is connected, the types of parameters that can be set are the same as those described in ???CTL3, CTL4 (Control3, Control4)??? (p. 139).

SOURCE

This selects the controller to which the function is assigned.

TARGET PARAMETER

This selects the parameter to be changed.

MIN (Minimum)

This sets the minimum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

140

Parameter/

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

Range

Explanation

MAX (Maximum)

This sets the maximum value for the range in which the parameter can change.

The value differs depending on the parameter assigned for TARGET

PARAMETER.

SW MODE (Switch Mode)

This sets the behavior of the value each time the switch is operated.

TRIGGR (Trigger)

This sets the trigger that activates the internal pedal. *1

CURVE

This selects one of the three types that determines how the internal pedal should change. *1

RATE

FORM

This selects one of the three types that determines how the wave pedal should change. *2

INPUT SENS

*1 The TRIGGR, TIME, and CURVE parameters are enabled when the SOURCE parameter is set to INTRNL PEDAL.

*2 The RATE and FORM parameters are enabled when the SOURCE parameter is set to WAVE PEDAL.

*3 The INPUT SENS parameter is enabled when the SOURCE parameter is set to INPUT LEVEL.

DIRECT EDIT F1???F6

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

This assigns functions to the function buttons operable in the Play screen and the [F1]???[F6] or F1???F6 knobs.

TARGET PARAMETER

This selects the parameter to be changed.

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141

NAME/KEY/BPM

BPM

Parameter/

PATCH NAME

Parameter/

Range

BPM

Explanation

Range

Explanation

PATCH NAME

This sets the patch name.

CATEGORY

KEY

The key setting corresponds to the key of the song (#, b) as follows.

*BPM (beats per minute) indicates the number of quarter note beats that occur each minute.

*When ???SYNC CLOCK??? (p. 149) is set to a value other than INTERNAL, sending a MIDI clock signal from an external MIDI instrument synchronizes the VB-99 to the MIDI clock signal that was sent. To enable the BPM setting, set this to INTERNAL.

*The parameters enabled (SYSTEM BPM, BPM) change according to the BPM MODE settings.

When they are disabled, the value < > is given.

Control with the BPM

You can tap input the BPM with [F1].

AMP CONTROL

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

FC AMP CTL1, FC AMP CTL2

TX PC (Transmit Program Change)

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

You can assign whatever Program Change numbers you want to patches.

*This setting is enabled when the SYSTEM MIDI TX PC MAP is set to PROG (p. 150).

BANK MSB

V-BASS LEVEL

142

BASS TO MIDI

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

PATCH

These parameters are set for each individual patch with the BASS TO MIDI function.

Parameter/

CHROMATIC

This sets the VB-99 so that if you play bends or slides, the unit will not send pitch bend message but instead will play the notes in half steps.

Range

Explanation

MODE

This sets the transmission mode for the MIDI messages.

PLAY FEEL

This selects the feeling produced in playing the bass, allowing you to choose playing with fingers or a pick to provide more natural dy- namic expression.

HOLD TYPE

This selects the way the Hold function works.

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143

Parameter/

SYSTEM

Range

Explanation

CC (Control Change)

You can output the actions of the controllers specified with SRC as Control Change messages.

These parameters are applied to the entire VB-99 in the BASS TO MIDI function.

Parameter/

You can make two types of settings, 1 and 2.

Range

Explanation

SRC (Source)

CC (Control Change)

OFF, #1???#31, #64???#95 This sets the Control Change number to be output.

*When the MONO/POLY setting is set to POLY, messages are output only over the BASIC CH; when this is set to MONO, the messages are output over the six channels starting from the BASIC CH.

PC (Program Change)

This sets the Program Change messages that are output when the VB-99???s patches are switched.

BANK MSB

HOLD CTL (Hold Control)

This setting determines the controller used for the HOLD function.

144

SYSTEM

LCD CONTRAST

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

DIRECT PATCH

Parameter/

SET MODE

This setting allows you to select whether one GK SETTING is used globally for the entire VB-99 or if different GK SETTINGS are speci- fied for each patch individually.

Range

Explanation

DIRECT PATCH

DIR.PATCH 1???5 This sets the desired [DIRECT PATCH 1]??? [DIRECT PATCH 5].

GK SETTING

GK FUNC (GK Function)

GK VOL (GK Volume)

This selects the function assigned to GK VOL.

For more on the functions assigned, refer to the GK

VOL column in ???Parameters That Can Be Assigned to Controllers??? (p. 147).

GK S1, S2 (GK S1, S2 Switch)

This selects the functions assigned to GK S1, S2.

For more on the functions assigned, refer to the GK S1,

S2 column in ???Parameters That Can Be Assigned to Controllers??? (p. 147).

This sets the name for the GK SETTING (up to eight characters).

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Parameter/

CTL (Control)

Range

Explanation

GK PU POS (GK Pickup Position)

This sets the divided pickup???s position.

CONTROL ASSIGN

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

GK PU PHASE (GK Pickup Phase)

This sets the phase for the divided pickup and normal pickup.

Set this to NORMAL, and if the low-frequency range is cut, set this to INVERS.

Mixing the divided pickup sound and normal pickup sound

(p. 30) makes it easier to determine the phase.

GK PU DIRECTION (GK Pickup Direction)

This sets the direction for the divided pickup???s installation.

S1, S2 POS (S1, S2 Position)

This exchanges the function for the GK-3B???s or GK-2B???s DOWN/S1, UP/S2 switches.

*1 Setting available when GK PU TYPE is set to PIEZO G, PIEZO G or PIEZO R.

Controller

You can freely assign functions to the VB-99???s and FC-300???s control- lers.

146

Parameters That Can Be

Assigned to Controllers

*The parameters that can be set will depend on the controllers.

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147

CONTROL

Parameter/

FC-300

Explanation

Parameter/

Range

Range

Explanation

ASSIGN HOLD

This setting determines whether or not the values (positions) of the D BEAM (H) or RIBBON CONTROLLER or the FC-300???s expression pedals or control pedals or other controllers are to be reflected in the sound as soon as a patch is called up.

DIRECT EDIT F1???F6

This assigns functions to the function buttons operable in the Play screen and the [F1]???[F6] or F1???F6 knobs.

TARGET PARAMETER

This selects the parameter to be changed.

SYS EX MODE (System Exclusive Mode)

This sets the FC-300???s control method.

BANK CHANGE

This sets the timing with which tones switch when patches are changed with the FC-300.

QUICK TUNER

This enables use of the FC-300???s number pedals to switch the Tuner function on and off.

The Quick Tuner function is enabled only when the FC-300???s MODE is set to SYS EX.

148

MIDI

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

SYNC CLOCK

This setting determines the basis used for synchronizing the timing for effect modulation rates and other time-based parameters.

MIDI IN???

This sets the routing of signals arriving at the MIDI IN connector.

MIDI OUT???

This sets the routing of signals at the MIDI OUT connector.

This sets the routing of signals output from the USB connector.

RRC2???

This sets the routing of signals received via RRC2 IN connector.

RRC2???

This sets the routing of signals output from the RRC2 IN connector.

8 Chapter

149

Parameter/

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

Range

Explanation

PC (Program Change)

PC OUT (Program Change Out)

TX PC MAP (Transmit Program Change Map)

This setting determines the sequence of Program Change messages output when the VB-99???s patches are changed.

RX PC MAP (Receive Program Change Map)

You can select whether to use a fixed or freely set correspondence be- tween program numbers received and the patches switched to when the VB-99???s patches are switched by Program Change messages transmitted by an external MIDI device.

RX PC MAP (Receive Program Change Map)

You can edit the correspondence between the Program Change num- bers received and the patches that are switched to.

TX CC (Transmit Control Change)

This sets the Control Change numbers output when the VB-99???s ped- als and external pedals or the FC-300???s pedals and external pedals are operated.

BULK DUMP

With the VB-99, you can use Exclusive messages to set another VB- 99 to the same settings or to save effect sound settings to MIDI se- quencers and other such devices.

150

OUTPUT

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

MAIN OUT

This switches the signals output to MAIN OUT.

SUB OUT

This switches the signals output to SUB OUT.

D OUT (Digital Out)

This switches the signals output from DIGITAL OUT.

*The parameters enabled (MAIN OUT, MAIN LEVEL, SUB OUT, SUB LEVEL, D OUT, D OUT LEVEL) change according to the OUTPUT MODE settings.

When they are disabled, the value < > is given.

8 Chapter

151

USB

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

USB IN

This sets the point at which digital audio signals received via USB (from your computer) are connected within the VB-99.

*Do not connect at a point before the point set with the USB OUT parameter. For more on the connection points, refer to ???Signal Flow??? (p. 15).

*If the USB IN parameter is set to COSM BASS A, COSM BASS B, or NORMAL PU, the setting automatically changes to MAIN & SUB the next time the VB-99 is powered up. If you plan to use COSM BASS A, COSM BASS B, or NORMAL PU, make the setting each time you turn on the power to the VB-99.

USB OUT

This sets the point internally within the VB-99 from which signals are output via USB (to the computer).

DRIVER MODE

This setting determines which operational mode is used, the mode using the special driver contained on the included CD-ROM (AD- VANC) or the mode using the OS???s (Windows/Mac OS) standard driver (STANDRD).

* Changing the settings for this parameter requires you to turn off the power to the VB-99 and then turn it on again.

For more detailed information, refer to ???Switching the Driver Mode??? (p. 66).

MON CMD (Monitor Command)

This setting determines whether or not the command (the Direct Monitor command) controlling the Direct Monitor (described later) setting is enabled.

DIRECT MON (Direct Monitor)

Switches the output of the VB-99 sound to the PHONES jack, MAIN OUT jacks, or SUB OUT jacks.

* This setting cannot be saved. It is set to ON when the power is turned on.

* If you are using the special driver, you can control DIRECT MON On/ Off from ASIO 2.0-compatible application.

152

BPM

V-LINK

V-LINK PATCH

CLIP

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

*BPM (beats per minute) indicates the number of quarter note beats that occur each minute.

*When ???SYNC CLOCK??? (p. 149) is set to a value other than INTERNAL, sending a MIDI clock signal from an external MIDI instrument synchronizes the VB-99 to the MIDI clock signal that was sent. To enable the BPM setting, set this to INTERNAL.

*The parameters enabled (SYSTEM BPM, BPM) change according to the BPM MODE settings.

When they are disabled, the value < > is given.

Control with the SYSTEM BPM

This sets the Program Change messages transmitted when patches are switched.

You can set different Program Changes in Channel A and Channel B. The clips (video images) on the receiving device are switched by these Program Change messages.

A ch/B ch PALETTE

ASSIGN 1???2

Parameter/

You can tap input the SYSTEM BPM with [F2].

Range

Explanation

These settings are necessary for controlling video using the bass???s performance data and messages from the VB-99???s controllers. You can make up to two types of settings.

SOURCE

8 Chapter

153

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

TARGET

Used in the general V-LINK compatible device.

TRIGGR (Trigger) *2

Sets the point at which the virtual expression pedal???s action begins.

CURVE *2

This selects one of the three types that determines how the assumed expression pedal changes.

RATE *3

FORM *3

This selects one of the three types that determines how the assumed expression pedal should change.

154

*1 You cannot set the MIN or MAX parameters when the TARGET parameter is set to one of the functions below. The MIN parameter is fixed at 0, and the MAX parameter is fixed at 127.

V-LINK SYSTEM

MIDI CH (MIDI Channel)

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

*2 The TRIGGR, TIME, and CURVE parameters are enabled when the SOURCE parameter is set to INTRNL PEDAL.

*3 The RATE and FORM parameters are enabled when the SOURCE parameter is set to WAVE PEDAL.

Although the target names indicated refer to EDIROL DV-7PR and motion dive .tokyo, it is Control Change messages that are actually transmitted.

For more on the correspondence between the target names and Control Change numbers, refer to p. 161.

For more detailed information on the EDIROL DV-7PR and motion dive .tokyo performance package, refer to the Owner???s Manuals for each product.

STRING CH (String Channel)

Parameter/

This sets the MIDI receive channel for the V-LINK compatible device connected to the VB-99.

MIDI A CH (MIDI A Channel)

Range

Explanation

HiC, 1???4th, LowB

Selects the channel to be controlled with each string.

Some V-LINK compatible equipments such as the EDIROL DV- 7PR allow use only of A CH.

8 Chapter

155

CATEGORY NAME

Parameter/

FACTORY RESET

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

Range

Explanation

CATEGORY NAME

This sets the Category name.

D BEAM CALIB

(D BEAM Calibration)

Parameter/

FACTORY RESET

This restores the VB-99 to the settings it had when it was shipped from the factory.

Range

Explanation

D BEAM DISAB (D BEAM Disable)

You can disable the D BEAM controller for the entire device.

PATCH EXTENT

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

PATCH EXTENT

You can set upper and lower limits to define the range of patches that can be switched.

156

GLOBAL

Parameter/

Range

Explanation

NAME

This sets the name for the SETTING (up to eight characters).

MAIN OUTPUT SELECT

This selects the type of device to be connected.

EQ MAIN (Equalizer Main),

EQ SUB (Equalizer Sub)

Parameter/

LOW MID GAIN (Low Middle Gain)

-12???+12dB Adjusts the low-middle frequency range tone.

HIGH MID FREQ (High Middle Frequency)

20Hz???10.0kHz Specifies the center of the frequency range that will be adjusted by the HIGH MID GAIN.

NS (Noise Suppressor)

Range

Explanation

MAIN EQ (Main Equalizer),

SUB EQ (Sub Equalizer)

A four-band equalizer with high and low ranges is provided.

EQ (MAIN) is applied to the output from MAIN OUT; EQ

(SUB) is applied to the output from SUB OUT.

MAIN EQ SW (Main Equalizer Switch), SUB EQ SW (Sub Equalizer Switch)

TOTAL GAIN

-12???+12dB Adjusts the volume before the equalizer.

LOW GAIN

-12???+12dB Adjusts the low frequency range tone.

HIGH GAIN

-12???+12dB Adjusts the high frequency range tone.

LOW MID FREQ (Low Middle Frequency)

8 Chapter

157

SUB OUT LEVEL

TUNER

MULTI MODE, SINGLE MODE

Parameter/

Range

PITCH

Explanation

MUTE

This setting selects whether or not the tuning sound is output from the connected device (such as an amp).

158

Chapter 9 Appendices

MIDI Implementation Chart

V-Bass System

Model VB-99

MIDI Implementation Chart (Main Section)

Date : July. 2, 2008

Version : 1.00

159

Chapter 9 Appendices

160

Chapter 9 Appendices

V-LINK

161

Chapter 9 Appendices

V-LINK Correspondence Table

162

Chapter 9 Appendices

Specifications

VB-99: V-Bass System

AD Conversion

24 bits + AF method

DA Conversion

24 bits

Sampling Frequency

44.1 kHz

Program Memories

400: 200 (User) + 200 (Preset)

Nominal Input Level

BASS INPUT: -10 dBu

Input Impedance

BASS INPUT: 2.2 M ohms

Nominal Output Level

MAIN OUT: -10 dBu

SUB OUT (XLR): +4 dBu

BASS OUT: -10 dBu

Output Impedance

MAIN OUT: 1 k ohm

SUB OUT (XLR): 600 ohms

Dynamic Range

100 dB or greater (IHF-A)

Controls

[Top Panel]

OUTPUT LEVEL knob

Function knobs x 6 (F1???F6)

BALANCE knob

V-BASS LEVEL knob

V-LINK button

DIRECT PATCH buttons x 5 (1???5) CONTROL buttons x 2 (1, 2) COSM BASS buttons x 2 (A, B) BASS DIRECT button

POLY FX A/B buttons x 2 (A, B) FX buttons x 2 (A, B)

COSM AMP buttons x 2 (A, B) MIXER buttons x 2 (A, B) DELAY/REVERB button DYNAMIC button

CHAIN button

CONTROL ASSIGN button

NAME/KEY/BPM button

Function buttons x 6 (F1???F6)

EXIT button

WRITE button

PAGE buttons x 2 (Left, Right)

BASS TO MIDI button

SYSTEM button

GLOBAL button

TUNER button

CATEGORY button

PATCH/VALUE dial

Power switch

D BEAM

D Beam Controller

PITCH button

FILTER button

ASSIGNABLE button

RIBBON CONTROLLER

Ribbon Controller

PITCH button

FILTER button

ASSIGNABLE button

[Rear Panel]

Ground Lift switch (SUB OUT)

Display

240x64 dots graphic LCD (with backlit)

Connectors

[Top Panel]

GK IN connector (13-pin DIN type)

[Rear Panel]

BASS INPUT jack (1/4??? phone type)

BASS OUTPUT jack (1/4??? phone type)

SUB OUT jacks x 2 (L, R) (XLR type)

MAIN OUT jacks x 2 (L/MONO, R) (1/4??? phone type) PHONES jack (Stereo 1/4??? phone type)

DIGITAL OUT jack (Coaxial type, conforms to IEC60958-3) EXP PEDAL jack (1/4??? TRS phone type)

CTL 3,4 jack (1/4??? TRS phone type)

USB connector (B type)

RRC2 IN connector (RJ45 type)

MIDI connectors x 2 (IN, OUT) (5-pin DIN type) DC IN jack

Power Supply

AC Adaptor (PSB-1U)

Current Draw

1.3 A

9 Chapter

163

Chapter 9 Appendices

Dimensions

384.0 (W) x 218.0 (D) x 93.5 (H) mm

15-1/8 (W) x 8-5/8 (D) x 3-11/16 (H) inches

*EIA-5U rack mount type: optional rack mount adaptor RAD-99

Weight

2.1 kg / 4 lbs 11 oz (excluding AC Adaptor)

Accessories

Owner???s Manual

GK cable (5 m)

USB cable

RRC2 cable

VB-99 Software CD-ROM

AC adaptor (PSB-1U)

Knob Bolt x 4

Options

Divided Pickup: GK-3B

MIDI Foot Controller: FC-300

Footswitch: BOSS FS-5U

Dual Footswitch: BOSS FS-6

Expression Pedal: EV-5, BOSS FV-500L/500H

GK Cable: GKC-10/5/3

Unit Selector: US-20

Rack Mount Adaptor: RAD-99

Pad Stand: PDS-10

Footswitch Cable: PCS-31

Carrying Bag: CB-VG9

*0 dBu = 0.775 V rms

962a+962b

*In the interest of product improvement, the specifications, appearance of this unit and/or contents of this package are subject to change without prior notice.

VB-99 Software System

Requirements

For Windows

Operating System

???Microsoft Windows XP

???Microsoft Windows Vista

CPU/Clock

???Pentium/Celeron, Intel-compatible processor 1 GHz or higher

RAM

???512 MBytes or more

Free space required on hard disk

???190 MBytes or more

Display resolution/Color depth

???1024 x 768 or higher / 65,536 colors (16 bit High Color) or more

For Mac OS

Operating System

???Mac OS X 10.4.3 or later

CPU/Clock

???PowerPC G4, G5/1 GHz or higher

???Intel processor

RAM

???512 MBytes or more

Free space required on hard disk

???190 MBytes or more

Display resolution/Color depth

???1024 x 768 or higher / 32,000 colors or more

986

While under most conditions, a computer similar to the above will permit normal operation of the VB-99, Roland cannot guarantee compatibility solely on these factors. This is due to numerous variables that may influence the processing environment, such as differences in motherboard design and the particular combination of other devices involved.

164

Chapter 9 Appendices

Error Messages

If there has been a mistake in an operation or if the operation is not executed properly, an error message will appear in the display. Please follow the instructions indicated in the message to resolve the issue.

???DATA WRITE ERROR???

???Writing to the memory for storage of user data failed.

???The unit may be damaged. Consult the nearest Roland service center.

???MIDI BUFFER FULL???

???RRC2 BUFFER FULL???

???USB BUFFER FULL???

???The data cannot be processed correctly due to the high volume of MIDI messages.

???Reduce the volume of MIDI messages transmitted to the VB-99.

???MIDI OFFLINE??? ???RRC2 OFFLINE???

???USB OFFLINE???

???Transmissions from the connected device have been interrupted. This message also appears when the power to the connected device has been turned off. It does not indicate damage.

???Check to make sure no cable is disconnected and that there are no shorts.

???OUT OF RANGE! SET AGAIN???

???The D Beam controller or ribbon controller cannot be calibrated.

???If using the D Beam controller, change the range or position and recalibrate to keep this message from appearing.

???If using the ribbon controller, confirm the calibration by carrying out the procedure once more.

If the message continues to appear even after the calibration is correctly performed, it may indicate damage or malfunction. Consult your Roland dealer or contact Roland Service.

???USB DEVICE ERROR???

???Initialization of the VB-99???s internal USB device failed. USB cannot be used.

???The unit may be damaged. Consult the nearest Roland service center.

Troubleshooting

If the VB-99 is not producing sounds or if you think it is not operating properly, first check the following points. If checking these points fails to resolve the problem, consult your dealer or the nearest Roland service center.

For more on the USB drivers and problems when using the drivers, refer to the following file contained on the VB-99 Software CD-ROM.

Problems with Sounds

No sound/Low volume

???Is there a short in any connecting cable?

??? Try replacing the connecting cable.

???Are the VB-99 and other devices connected properly?

??? Check the connections with the other devices (p. 17).

???Is the power to the connected amp or mixer not turned on, or is the volume turned down?

???Check the settings for the connected device.

???Is the OUTPUT LEVEL knob turned down completely?

???Adjust the knob to an appropriate setting (p. 20).

???Is the tuner on?

???The direct sound is not output when the tuner is on if the volume setting during tuning is set to MUTE ON (p. 23).

???Is the [SYSTEM] - GK - GK CONNCT set properly?

???If a divided pickup is connected: set [SYSTEM] - GK - GK CONNCT to ON (if AUTO does not function well).

???If a divided pickup is not connected: set [SYSTEM] - GK - GK CONNCT to OFF.

???Is [COSM BASS A] or [COSM BASS B] switched on?

???No sounds from the divided pickup will be played if [COSM BASS] is switched off. Switch on the [COSM BASS].

???Is [A/B BALANCE] set correctly?

???Set [A/B BALANCE] for the channel in which sounds are being played.

9 Chapter

165

Chapter 9 Appendices

???Is each effect set correctly?

???Use the ???Meter function??? (p. 31) in [CHAIN] to confirm the output level of each effect. If the meter for any effect is not fluctuating, check the settings for that effect.

???Are volume parameters such as BASS:VOLUME, FV:LEVEL, and V-BASS LEVEL set to the assigned targets?

??? Operate these in accordance with the sources.

???Are the OUTPUT settings properly made?

???Check the output settings for [SYSTEM] - OUTPUT and [MIXER] - OUTPUT.

???If there are no sounds through USB, are the [SYSTEM] - USB settings correct?

???Adjust the settings to the appropriate values (p. 66) (p. 152).

???If there are no sounds through USB, is [SYSTEM] - GK SETTING correctly set?

???When GK CONNCT is set to OFF (or if the divided pickup is not connected), audio input via USB may not be output. Be sure to set the appropriate value (p. 145).

???Is the [SYSTEM] - USB - DIRECT MON (p. 152) switched off?

??? Set this to ON.

926b

Low volume for device connected to INPUT

???Could you be using an audio cable that incorporates a resistor?

??? Use only connecting cables that don???t contain a resistor.

Oscillating sound audible

???Are any gain values or volume-related parameter values in the effect settings set too high?

??? Lower the values.

???Is [SYSTEM] - USB - USB IN (p. 152) set to anything other than OFF?

???When set to anything other than OFF, the software settings may cause looping of the audio signals.

If this occurs, you can use any of the following methods to avoid the problem.

???Stop playback with the software, or set Soft Thru to OFF.

???Switch off the software???s audio input.

???Change the [SYSTEM] - USB - USB IN setting to OFF.

No stereo effect produced

???Do you have a monaural effect or COSM amp connected after the stereo effect (STRING PAN, CHORUS, etc.)?

???Passing the signal through a monaural effect or COSM amp cancels the stereo effect. Press [CHAIN] to confirm the effect connection sequence (p. 31).

Cannot change parameters with knobs or PATCH/VALUE dial

???Are you using INTERNAL PEDAL (p. 140) with Control Assign?

???When INTERNAL PEDAL or WAVE PEDAL is used for the assign source, the effect parameters set as the assign targets change automatically.

If you want to change parameters with the knobs or PATCH/VALUE dial, first switch off Control Assign and cancel the INTERNAL PEDAL setting.

???Is the source in Control Assign set to INPUT LEVEL (p. 140)?

???When the assign source is set to INPUT LEVEL, the effect parameters set as the assign targets automatically change according to the input level from the bass (the performance dynamics).

If you want to change parameters with the knobs or PATCH/VALUE dial, first switch off Control Assign.

166

Chapter 9 Appendices

Other Problems

Unable to save SYSTEM/USB USB IN settings

???If the USB IN parameter is set to COSM BASS A, COSM BASS B, or NORMAL PU, then MAIN & SUB will be set the next time the VB-99 is powered up. If you plan to use COSM BASS A, COSM BASS B, or NORMAL PU, remake this setting each time you turn on the power to the VB-99 (p. 152).

Patches not switching

???Is some screen other than the Play screen shown in the display?

???With the VB-99, you cannot switch patches in any screen other than the Play screen. Press [EXIT] one or more times to return to the Play screen (p. 20).

???Is [SYSTEM] - MISC - PATCH EXTENT set correctly?

???The range of patches that can be selected is limited by the PATCH EXTENT setting. Be sure to set this correctly.

Unable to control parameters set with Assign as expected

???Are the effects switched off?

???Check to make sure the effects incorporating the parameters being controlled are on.

???Is the patch set to anything other than ASSIGNABLE (PATCH) in [SYSTEM] - CONTROL ASSIGN?

???Even with the patch???s [CONTROL ASSIGN] setting made, the settings made in [SYSTEM] - CONTROL ASSIGN are given priority.

To enable the settings in the patch, set the controllers under [SYSTEM] - CONTROL ASSIGN to ASSIGNABLE (PATCH).

???Are the MIDI channels matched?

???When carrying out operations using MIDI, check to confirm that both devices are set to the same MIDI channel (p. 52).

???Are the controller numbers (CC#) matched?

???Check to confirm that the controller numbers you are using are the same (p. 56).

MIDI messages not being transmitted/received

???Could there be a short in the MIDI cable?

??? Try replacing the MIDI cable.

???Are the VB-99 and the external MIDI device connected properly?

??? Check the connection with the external MIDI device.

???Are the MIDI channels matched?

???Check to confirm that both devices are set to the same MIDI channel (p. 52).

???Are the Device ID matched?

???Check to confirm that both devices are set to the same Device ID (p. 53).

???If you are transmitting from the VB-99, have the settings for transmission been made?

???Check the Program Change message transmission ON/ OFF setting (p. 54) and the settings for the controller number to be transmitted (p. 56).

Parameters Indicated with Angle Brackets

???When a parameter appears in angle brackets (< >), it indicates the parameter is currently disabled. System parameters take priority over the patch parameters shown below; depending on the settings, these patch parameters may be disabled.

Please confirm the settings for the corresponding system parameters.

9 Chapter

167

Index

168

Index

169

Index

170

Index

171

Index

172

Index

173

Index

174

MEMO

175

MEMO

176

MEMO

177

MEMO

178

MEMO

179

MEMO

180

MEMO

181

For EU Countries

204

*Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

*Windows Vista is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

206j

* Windows?? is known officially as: ???Microsoft?? Windows?? operating system.???

207

* Apple and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

209

* Mac OS is a trademark of Apple Inc.

213

*Pentium and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.

*PowerPC is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.

220

* All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

For the U.K.

IMPORTANT: THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.

BLUE: NEUTRAL

BROWN: LIVE

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:

The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK. The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED. Under no circumstances must either of the above wires be connected to the earth terminal of a three pin plug.

For EU Countries

This product complies with the requirements of EMC Directive 2004/108/EC.

For the USA

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. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

???Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

???Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

???Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

???Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1)this device may not cause harmful interference, and

(2)this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Unauthorized changes or modification to this system can void the users authority to operate this equipment. This equipment requires shielded interface cables in order to meet FCC class B Limit.

For Canada

NOTICE

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

AVIS

Cet appareil num??rique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du R??glement sur le mat??riel brouilleur du Canada.

For the USA

This product contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm, including lead.

Information

When you need repair service, call your nearest Roland Service Center or authorized Roland distributor in your country as shown below.

AFRICA

EGYPT

Al Fanny Trading Office

9, EBN Hagar Al Askalany

Street,

ARD E1 Golf, Heliopolis,

Cairo 11341, EGYPT

TEL: (022)-418-5531

REUNION

Maison FO - YAM Marcel

25 Rue Jules Hermann,

Chaudron - BP79 97 491

Ste Clotilde Cedex,

REUNION ISLAND

TEL: (0262) 218-429

SOUTH AFRICA

T.O.M.S. Sound & Music (Pty)Ltd.

2 ASTRON ROAD DENVER JOHANNESBURG ZA 2195,

SOUTH AFRICA

TEL: (011)417 3400

Paul Bothner(PTY)Ltd.

Royal Cape Park, Unit 24

Londonderry Road, Ottery 7800

Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA

TEL: (021) 799 4900

ASIA

CHINA

Roland Shanghai Electronics

Co.,Ltd.

5F. No.1500 Pingliang Road

Shanghai 200090, CHINA

TEL: (021) 5580-0800

Roland Shanghai Electronics

Co.,Ltd.

(BEIJING OFFICE)

10F. No.18 3 Section Anhuaxili

Chaoyang District Beijing

100011 CHINA

TEL: (010) 6426-5050

HONG KONG

Tom Lee Music Co., Ltd.

Service Division

22-32 Pun Shan Street, Tsuen

Wan, New Territories,

HONG KONG

TEL: 2415 0911

Parsons Music Ltd.

8th Floor, Railway Plaza, 39 Chatham Road South, T.S.T, Kowloon, HONG KONG TEL: 2333 1863

INDIA

Rivera Digitec (India) Pvt. Ltd.

411, Nirman Kendra

Mahalaxmi Flats Compound

Off. Dr. Edwin Moses Road,

Mumbai-400011, INDIA

TEL: (022) 2493 9051

INDONESIA

PT Citra IntiRama

Jl. Cideng Timur No. 15J-15O

Jakarta Pusat

INDONESIA

TEL: (021) 6324170

KOREA

Cosmos Corporation

1461-9, Seocho-Dong,

Seocho Ku, Seoul, KOREA

TEL: (02) 3486-8855

MALAYSIA

Roland Asia Pacific Sdn. Bhd.

45-1, Block C2, Jalan PJU 1/39,

Dataran Prima, 47301 Petaling

Jaya, Selangor, MALAYSIA

TEL: (03) 7805-3263

VIET NAM

Suoi Nhac Company, Ltd

370 Cach Mang Thang Tam St.

Dist.3, Ho Chi Minh City,

VIET NAM

TEL: 9316540

PHILIPPINES

G.A. Yupangco & Co. Inc.

339 Gil J. Puyat Avenue

Makati, Metro Manila 1200,

PHILIPPINES

TEL: (02) 899 9801

SINGAPORE

SWEE LEE MUSIC

COMPANY PTE. LTD.

150 Sims Drive, SINGAPORE 387381 TEL: 6846-3676

TAIWAN

ROLAND TAIWAN

ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Room 5, 9fl. No. 112 Chung Shan N.Road Sec.2, Taipei, TAIWAN, R.O.C.

TEL: (02) 2561 3339

THAILAND

Theera Music Co. , Ltd.

100-108 Soi Verng

Nakornkasem, New

Road,Sumpantawongse,

Bangkok 10100 THAILAND

TEL: (02) 224-8821

AUSTRALIA/

NEW ZEALAND

AUSTRALIA/

NEW ZEALAND

Roland Corporation

Australia Pty.,Ltd.

38 Campbell Avenue

Dee Why West. NSW 2099

AUSTRALIA

For Australia

Tel: (02) 9982 8266

For New Zealand

Tel: (09) 3098 715

CENTRAL/LATIN

AMERICA

ARGENTINA

Instrumentos Musicales S.A.

Av.Santa Fe 2055

(1123) Buenos Aires

ARGENTINA

TEL: (011) 4508-2700

BARBADOS

A&B Music Supplies LTD

12 Webster Industrial Park

Wildey, St.Michael, Barbados

TEL: (246)430-1100

BRAZIL

Roland Brasil Ltda.

Rua San Jose, 780 Sala B

Parque Industrial San Jose

Cotia - Sao Paulo - SP, BRAZIL

TEL: (011) 4615 5666

CHILE

Comercial Fancy II S.A.

Rut.: 96.919.420-1

Nataniel Cox #739, 4th Floor Santiago - Centro, CHILE TEL: (02) 688-9540

COLOMBIA

Centro Musical Ltda.

Cra 43 B No 25 A 41 Bododega 9

Medellin, Colombia

TEL: (574)3812529

COSTA RICA

JUAN Bansbach Instrumentos

Musicales

Ave.1. Calle 11, Apartado 10237,

San Jose, COSTA RICA TEL: 258-0211

CURACAO

Zeelandia Music Center Inc.

Orionweg 30

Curacao, Netherland Antilles

TEL:(305)5926866

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Instrumentos Fernando Giraldez

Calle Proyecto Central No.3

Ens.La Esperilla

Santo Domingo,

Dominican Republic

TEL:(809) 683 0305

ECUADOR

Mas Musika

Rumichaca 822 y Zaruma

Guayaquil - Ecuador

TEL:(593-4)2302364

EL SALVADOR

OMNI MUSIC

75 Avenida Norte y Final

Alameda Juan Pablo II,

Edificio No.4010 San Salvador,

EL SALVADOR

TEL: 262-0788

GUATEMALA

Casa Instrumental

Calzada Roosevelt 34-01,zona 11 Ciudad de Guatemala Guatemala

TEL:(502) 599-2888

HONDURAS

Almacen Pajaro Azul S.A. de C.V.

BO.Paz Barahona

3 Ave.11 Calle S.O

San Pedro Sula, Honduras

TEL: (504) 553-2029

MARTINIQUE

Musique & Son

Z.I.Les Mangle

97232 Le Lamantin

Martinique F.W.I.

TEL: 596 596 426860

Gigamusic SARL

10 Rte De La Folie

97200 Fort De France

Martinique F.W.I.

TEL: 596 596 715222

MEXICO

Casa Veerkamp, s.a. de c.v.

Av. Toluca No. 323, Col. Olivar de los Padres 01780 Mexico D.F. MEXICO

TEL: (55) 5668-6699

NICARAGUA

Bansbach Instrumentos

Musicales Nicaragua

Altamira D'Este Calle Principal de la Farmacia 5ta.Avenida

1 Cuadra al Lago.#503 Managua, Nicaragua TEL: (505)277-2557

PANAMA

SUPRO MUNDIAL, S.A.

Boulevard Andrews, Albrook,

Panama City, REP. DE

PANAMA

TEL: 315-0101

PARAGUAY

Distribuidora De

Instrumentos Musicales

J.E. Olear y ESQ. Manduvira

Asuncion PARAGUAY

TEL: (595) 21 492147

PERU

Audionet

Distribuciones Musicales SAC

Juan Fanning 530

Miraflores

Lima - Peru

TEL: (511) 4461388

TRINIDAD

AMR Ltd

Ground Floor

Maritime Plaza

Barataria Trinidad W.I.

TEL: (868) 638 6385

URUGUAY

Todo Musica S.A.

Francisco Acuna de Figueroa 1771

C.P.: 11.800 Montevideo, URUGUAY TEL: (02) 924-2335

VENEZUELA

Instrumentos Musicales

Allegro,C.A.

Av.las industrias edf.Guitar import

#7 zona Industrial de Turumo Caracas, Venezuela

TEL: (212) 244-1122

EUROPE

AUSTRIA

Roland Elektronische

Musikinstrumente HmbH.

Austrian Office

Eduard-Bodem-Gasse 8,

A-6020 Innsbruck, AUSTRIA

TEL: (0512) 26 44 260

BELGIUM/FRANCE/

HOLLAND/

LUXEMBOURG

Roland Central Europe N.V.

Houtstraat 3, B-2260, Oevel

(Westerlo) BELGIUM

TEL: (014) 575811

CROATIA

ART-CENTAR

Degenova 3.

HR - 10000 Zagreb

TEL: (1) 466 8493

CZECH REP.

CZECH REPUBLIC

DISTRIBUTOR s.r.o

Voct??rova 247/16

CZ - 180 00 PRAHA 8,

CZECH REP.

TEL: (2) 830 20270

DENMARK

Roland Scandinavia A/S

Nordhavnsvej 7, Postbox 880,

DK-2100 Copenhagen

DENMARK

TEL: 3916 6200

FINLAND

Roland Scandinavia As, Filial

Finland

Elannontie 5

FIN-01510 Vantaa, FINLAND

TEL: (0)9 68 24 020

GERMANY

Roland Elektronische

Musikinstrumente HmbH.

Oststrasse 96, 22844

Norderstedt, GERMANY

TEL: (040) 52 60090

GREECE/CYPRUS

STOLLAS S.A.

Music Sound Light

155, New National Road

Patras 26442, GREECE

TEL: 2610 435400

HUNGARY

Roland East Europe Ltd.

Warehouse Area ???DEPO??? Pf.83

H-2046 Torokbalint,

HUNGARY

TEL: (23) 511011

IRELAND

Roland Ireland

G2 Calmount Park, Calmount

Avenue, Dublin 12

Republic of IRELAND

TEL: (01) 4294444

ITALY

Roland Italy S. p. A.

Viale delle Industrie 8, 20020 Arese, Milano, ITALY TEL: (02) 937-78300

NORWAY

Roland Scandinavia Avd.

Kontor Norge

Lilleakerveien 2 Postboks 95

Lilleaker N-0216 Oslo

NORWAY

TEL: 2273 0074

POLAND

ROLAND POLSKA SP. Z O.O.

UL. Gibraltarska 4.

PL-03 664 Warszawa

POLAND

TEL: (022) 679 4419

PORTUGAL

Roland Iberia, S.L.

Portugal Office

Cais das Pedras, 8/9-1 Dto 4050-465, Porto, PORTUGAL TEL: 22 608 00 60

ROMANIA

FBS LINES

Piata Libertatii 1,

535500 Gheorgheni,

ROMANIA

TEL: (266) 364 609

RUSSIA

MuTek

Dorozhnaya ul.3,korp.6 117 545 Moscow, RUSSIA TEL: (095) 981-4967

SLOVAKIA

DAN Acoustic s.r.o.

Povazsk?? 18.

SK - 940 01 Nov?? Z??mky

TEL: (035) 6424 330

SPAIN

Roland Iberia, S.L.

Paseo Garc??a Faria, 33-35

08005 Barcelona SPAIN

TEL: 93 493 91 00

SWEDEN

Roland Scandinavia A/S

SWEDISH SALES OFFICE

Danvik Center 28, 2 tr. S-131 30 Nacka SWEDEN TEL: (0)8 702 00 20

SWITZERLAND

Roland (Switzerland) AG

Landstrasse 5, Postfach,

CH-4452 Itingen,

SWITZERLAND

TEL: (061) 927-8383

UKRAINE

EURHYTHMICS Ltd.

P.O.Box: 37-a.

Nedecey Str. 30

UA - 89600 Mukachevo,

UKRAINE

TEL: (03131) 414-40

UNITED KINGDOM

Roland (U.K.) Ltd.

Atlantic Close, Swansea Enterprise Park, SWANSEA SA7 9FJ,

UNITED KINGDOM

TEL: (01792) 702701

MIDDLE EAST

BAHRAIN

Moon Stores

No.1231&1249 Rumaytha

Building Road 3931, Manama

339 BAHRAIN

TEL: 17 813 942

IRAN

MOCO INC.

No.41 Nike St., Dr.Shariyati Ave.,

Roberoye Cerahe Mirdamad

Tehran, IRAN

TEL: (021)-2285-4169

ISRAEL

Halilit P. Greenspoon & Sons

Ltd.

8 Retzif Ha'alia Hashnia St.

Tel-Aviv-Yafo ISRAEL

TEL: (03) 6823666

JORDAN

MUSIC HOUSE CO. LTD.

FREDDY FOR MUSIC

P. O. Box 922846

Amman 11192 JORDAN

TEL: (06) 5692696

KUWAIT

EASA HUSAIN AL-YOUSIFI & SONS CO.

Al-Yousifi Service Center

P.O.Box 126 (Safat) 13002

KUWAIT

TEL: 00 965 802929

LEBANON

Chahine S.A.L.

George Zeidan St., Chahine Bldg., Achrafieh, P.O.Box: 16- 5857

Beirut, LEBANON

TEL: (01) 20-1441

OMAN

TALENTZ CENTRE L.L.C.

Malatan House No.1

Al Noor Street, Ruwi

SULTANATE OF OMAN

TEL: 2478 3443

QATAR

Al Emadi Co. (Badie Studio &

Stores)

P.O. Box 62, Doha, QATAR

TEL: 4423-554

SAUDI ARABIA

aDawliah Universal

Electronics APL

Behind Pizza Inn

Prince Turkey Street

aDawliah Building,

PO BOX 2154,

Alkhobar 31952

SAUDI ARABIA

TEL: (03) 8643601

SYRIA

Technical Light & Sound

Center

Rawda, Abdul Qader Jazairi St.

Bldg. No. 21, P.O.BOX 13520,

Damascus, SYRIA

TEL: (011) 223-5384

TURKEY

ZUHAL DIS TICARET A.S.

Galip Dede Cad. No.37

Beyoglu - Istanbul / TURKEY

TEL: (0212) 249 85 10

U.A.E.

Zak Electronics & Musical

Instruments Co. L.L.C.

Zabeel Road, Al Sherooq Bldg.,

No. 14, Ground Floor, Dubai,

U.A.E.

TEL: (04) 3360715

NORTH AMERICA

CANADA

Roland Canada Ltd.

(Head Office)

5480 Parkwood Way

Richmond B. C., V6V 2M4

CANADA

TEL: (604) 270 6626

Roland Canada Ltd.

(Toronto Office)

170 Admiral Boulevard

Mississauga On L5T 2N6

CANADA

TEL: (905) 362 9707

U. S. A.

Roland Corporation U.S.

5100 S. Eastern Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90040-2938,

U. S. A.

TEL: (323) 890 3700

As of Oct. 1, 2007 (ROLAND)

04672434 08-08-1N

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