Cakewalk VS-700 User Manual

IMPORTANT NOTES

Handling DVD-ROM/CD-ROMs

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

Copyright

Recording, duplication, distribution, sale, lease, performance, or broadcast of copyrighted material (musical works, visual works, broadcasts, live performances,
etc.) belonging to a third party in part or in whole without the permission of the copyright owner is forbidden by law.

Do not use this unit for purposes that could infringe on a copyright held by a third party. We assume no responsibility whatsoever with regard to any
infringements of third-party copyrights arising through your use of this unit.

Additional Precautions

Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents of data that was stored on a hard disk etc. once it has been lost. Roland Corporation assumes no
liability concerning such loss of data.

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).

Unauthorized duplication, reproduction, hiring, and lending prohibited.

Before you open the included DVD-ROM/CD-ROM, you must read the “license agreement.” Opening the DVD-ROM/CD-ROM will be taken to mean your
acceptance of the license agreement.

In the interest of product improvement, the specifications and/or contents of this package are subject to change without prior notice.

Use of the demosongs or data supplied with this product for any purpose other than private, personal enjoyment without the permission of the copyright
holder is prohibited by law. Additionally, this data must not be copied, nor used in a secondary copyrighted work without the permission of the copyright
holder.

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.

While under most conditions, a computer similar to the “System Requirements” printed on package will permit normal operation of the SONAR V-STUDIO,
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.

Cakewalk are registered trademarks of Cakewalk Inc.

SONAR and Cakewalk logo are trademarks of Cakewalk Inc.

Microsoft and Windows and Windows Vista are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

The screen shots in this document are used in compliance with the guidelines of the Microsoft Corporation.

®

is known officially as: “Microsoft® Windows® operating system.”

Windows

ASIO and VST is a trademark of Steinberg Media Technologies AG.

MMP (Moore Microprocessor Portfolio) refers to a patent portfolio concerned with microprocessor architecture, which was developed by Technology
Properties Limited (TPL). Roland has licensed this technology from the TPL Group.

All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” (VS-700 Owner’s Manual p. 2), “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (VS­700 Owner’s Manual p. 3), and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (VS-700 Owner’s Manual p. 6). 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, VS-700 Owner’s
Manual should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.

Copyright © 2009 ROLAND CORPORATION
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION.

About This Manual

This manual (SONAR V-STUDIO 700 Getting Started) provides basic information about how to set up the SONAR V­STUDIO 700, make initial settings, and set up your system. It also provides troubleshooting information.

●

This manual uses the following icons to call your attention to explanations of terms or to important points you should
note. These contain important information, so please be sure to read them.

Explanation of terms, or tips

Points you should be aware of

Related information or detailed explanations

●

In order to explain operations as simply as possible, this manual uses the following conventions.

• The steps for selecting a menu item are delineated by “|” (vertical bar) symbols.
For example,

• Material that is distinct from the main text or operating procedure, such as operating tips or related information,
is enclosed by a heavy border.

• Unless otherwise specified, Windows Vista and Windows XP are referred to simply as

• Unless otherwise specified, the SONAR 8 software included with this product is referred to simply as

●

SONAR is designed to be flexibly customized for a wide range of systems in order to be used in a broad range of ways.
Unless otherwise specified, this manual assumes that SONAR is in the state immediately after installation. If you have
customized SONAR, the explanations and operating procedures described in this manual may not produce the
intended result.

File

|

New

means that you are to choose the “

File

menu command

New

.

Windows

.

SONAR

.

●

If you have difficulty understanding the explanations of the operations (for example, when you’re using Windows for
the first time), please refer to the documentation for your computer or for Windows.

3

Contents

About This Manual......................................................................................................................................... 3

Checking the Contents of the Package...........................6

Installation and Registration...............................................8

Installing the VS-700 Driver........................................................................................................................ 8

To Uninstall the VS-700 Driver....................................................................................... 8

Windows Vista Users.......................................................................................................... 9

Windows XP Users............................................................................................................13

Installing the VS-700 Software ................................................................................................................18

To Install the VS-700 Software .....................................................................................18

Connecting your audio equipment.......................................................................................................19

Register SONAR.............................................................................................................................................20

Installing SONAR ..........................................................................................................................................21

To Install SONAR ...............................................................................................................21

To Uninstall SONAR..........................................................................................................21

SONAR VS-700 software components.................................................................................................. 22

SONAR VS-700 Control Surface Plug-in....................................................................22

Fantom VS Editor..............................................................................................................22

Rapture.................................................................................................................................22

Rapture Expansion Packs...............................................................................................22

Running SONAR for the First Time.........................................................................................................23

Initial Settings........................................................................ 24

Audio Driver Settings .................................................................................................................................24

Select the Drivers..............................................................................................................24

Other Audio Driver and Audio-Related Settings................................................... 26

MIDI Devices Settings.................................................................................................................................28

MIDI Controllers/Surfaces Settings........................................................................................................ 30

Loading the Controllers/Surfaces Plug-in................................................................30

VST/VSTi Registration and Settings.......................................................................................................31

Playing a Demo Song .................................................................................................................................32

Playing an Audio Demo Song ......................................................................................32

Playing Back the MIDI Demo Songs...........................................................................35

4

Recording Audio...........................................................................................................................................37

1. Connect Instruments and Mics ...............................................................................37

2. Create a New File..........................................................................................................38

3. Select the Input for the Track...................................................................................39

4. Arm the Track for Recording....................................................................................40

5. Enable Input Monitoring for Recording............................................................... 41

6. Adjust the Level............................................................................................................42

7. Turn On the Metronome ...........................................................................................43

8. Now Let’s Record!.........................................................................................................44

Troubleshooting................................................................... 45

Problems When Installing VS-700 Driver or Changing Settings .................................................46

Problems When Installing SONAR or Changing Settings..............................................................48

Problems at Startup with SONAR...........................................................................................................49

Problems with Playback ............................................................................................................................50

Problems with Recording..........................................................................................................................52

Eliminating Clicks and Dropouts ............................................................................................................54

Appendix................................................................................. 56

VS-700 Driver settings................................................................................................................................56

Changing or Viewing the Settings .............................................................................56

Controls in the Settings Dialog Box ...........................................................................56

Uninstalling VS-700 Driver........................................................................................................................ 57

Windows Vista Users........................................................................................................57

Windows XP Users............................................................................................................57

Configuring VS-700 MIDI Ports ...............................................................................................................58

To Enable VS-700 MIDI Ports in SONAR....................................................................58

To Configure SONAR VS-700 Control Surface Plug-in......................................... 58

To Configure Fantom VS Editor...................................................................................58

Giving Priority to Background Service (Windows XP).....................................................................59

About Sampling Rates................................................................................................................................60

About Mixing Latency ................................................................................................................................61

Multi-user Use ...............................................................................................................................................62

Uninstalling SONAR and Other Components....................................................................................62

Contents

5

Checking the Contents of the Package

As soon as you open the package, check that you have all of the included items.

If anything is missing, contact your dealer.

❑

VS-700C Console

fig.pane-vs700c.eps

❑

VS-700R I/O Unit

fig.pane-vs700r.eps

6

■

Getting Started

This is the manual you’re reading. It explains how to get SONAR V-STUDIO 700 up and running. It also explains what
you need to know when setting up this product, and what you should know when using it.

❑

VS-700 Owner’s Manual

This explains how to use the VS-700, as well as points of caution that you should remember. Keep this manual at
hand for reference.

❑

SONAR User’s Guide

This explains how to use SONAR 8.

The end of this guide contains the
customer, to use this software. You must read this before you open the DVD-ROM.

❑

Shortcuts and Quick Keys Guide

This is a table of shortcut operations for the VS-700C console.

❑

SONAR 8 DVD-ROM

This DVD-ROM contains SONAR 8.

❑

Beatscape DVD-ROM

This DVD-ROM contains Beatscape.

License Agreement

Checking the Contents of the Package

. This license agreement is a contract that permits you, the

❑

Dimension Pro DVD-ROM

This DVD-ROM contains Dimension Pro.

❑

SONAR 8 additional content DVD-ROM

This DVD-ROM contains Expansion Pack and other material.

❑

SONAR V-STUDIO 700 CD-ROM

This contains the VS-700 driver and editor software.

* Install the VS-700 driver from this CD-ROM.

❑

Power Cord (two)

The two power cords are for the VS-700R and for the VS-700C.

❑

Dedicated Connection Cable

This is a dedicated connection cable for connecting the VS-700C console and the VS-700R I/O unit.

* Do not use any cable other than the dedicated connection cable to connect the VS-700C console and VS-700R I/O unit.

❑

VS-700R Rackmount Brackets (two)

You can use this hardware to install the VS-700R I/O unit in a 19” rack.

7

Installation and Registration

Here’s how to install the VS-700 driver, VS-700 software and SONAR on your computer.

Please note before installing

When installing, you must log on as a user with administrative privileges

In order to install SONAR, you must log on as a user who has administrative privileges. Once installed, the program
can also be used by users who do not have administrative privileges.

Close system monitoring software before installing

If system monitoring software such as anti-virus programs are installed on your computer, you must close them until
you’ve finished installing SONAR. You must also remember to close applications that are not shown in the Windows
taskbar.

Before opening the CD-ROM, be sure to read the “License Agreement” at the end of the SONAR User’s
Guide.

By opening the CD-ROM, you agree to accept the terms of the License Agreement.

Installing the VS-700 Driver

What is a Driver?

A driver is software that transfers data between the VS-700 and application software on your computer when your
computer and the VS-700 are connected via a USB cable. You will need to install the driver before connecting the
VS-700 with your computer.

* Log on to Windows as a user whose account type is administrator (such as the Administrator account).

* The driver disk contains the VS-700R driver and the VS-700C driver. Normally, you will install only the VS-700R driver.

Use the VS-700C driver if you’ll be using the VS-700C console by itself.

* The driver(s) you install here also support ASIO (Steinberg Audio Stream I/O Interface).

●

Windows Vista Users p. 9

●

Windows XP Users p. 13

After installing the VS-700 drivers and SONAR 8, see
on how to configure the MIDI ports.

To Uninstall the VS-700 Driver

Refer to

“Uninstalling VS-700 Driver”

8

(p. 57).

Running SONAR for the First Time

(p. 23) for information

Windows Vista Users

Disconnect all USB cables (except those for a USB keyboard and/or USB mouse, if used), then start

1.

up Windows.

2.

Close all currently running software (applications).

Also close all windows that are open. If you are using software such as antivirus programs, be sure to close these
programs as well.

3.

Insert the included “SONAR V-STUDIO 700 CD-ROM” into your computer’s CD/DVD-ROM drive.

The

“VS-700 Setup”

If AutoRun is not enabled, you can start the installer by selecting
(where d:\ is your disc drive).

4.

A user account control screen will appear; click [Continue].

Click [Next].

5.

Select “Install VS-700 Drivers.”

6.

AutoRun appears.

Start-Run

and entering

Installation and Registration

d:\VS-700_Setup.exe

Click [Next].

7.

The screen will indicate “VS-700 Driver will be installed on your computer.” Click [Next].

8.

* If any other message appears, proceed as directed by that message.

9.

To begin the installation, click [Next].

10.

If a Windows security dialog box appears, click [Install].

The screen will indicate “VS-700 driver has been installed.”

11.

* If any other message appears, proceed as directed by that message.

Leave the screen open; do not close it at this point.

9

Installation and Registration

VS-700C Rear Panel

VS-700R Rear Panel

Dedicated connection
cable (included)

12.

Perform the following procedure before you connect the VS-700 to your computer.

Due to a circuitry-protection feature, the VS-700R requires a few moments after power-up before it is ready
for normal operation.

Minimize the volume of the connected monitor speakers or external amp, and then connect the VS-700R to
your computer. Even if the volume is minimized, some noise may be audible when you make connections, but
this does not indicate a malfunction.

The system may not be recognized correctly if you connect to a USB hub. If so, connect directly to a USB
port on your computer.

1.

fig.VS-700-connect01e.eps

Use the dedicated connection cable (included) to connect the VS-700C and VS-700R.

fig.VS-700-connect02e.eps

fig.VS-700-connect03e.eps

10

2.

Set the VS-700R’s [SAMPLE RATE] knob to 44.1.

VS-700R Front Panel

Minimize the VS-700C’s [AUDIO OUTPUT] knobs (three knobs).

3.

fig.VS-700-connect04-e.eps

Installation and Registration

4.

Use the included power cords to connect the VS-700C and VS-700R to AC outlets.

VS-700C Rear Panel

Power Cord

VS-700R Rear Panel

to Power Outlet

fig.VS-700-connect05-e.eps

fig.VS-700-connect05-e.eps

Power Cord

5.

Turn on the power switch of the VS-700C.

6.

Turn on the power switch of the VS-700R.

to Power Outlet

VS-700C Rear Panel

Power On

VS-700R Front Panel

Power On

11

Installation and Registration

7.

fig.VS-700-connect06e.eps

Use the included USB cable to connect the VS-700R to your computer.

VS-700C Rear Panel

VS-700R Rear Panel

USB cable (Included)

Connect the USB cable to the VS-700R. Don’t connect it to the VS-700C console.

The

“Installing device driver software”

be installed automatically.

If any other message appears, note the content of the message and close the message.

Installation is complete when the
the screen.

12.

Click [Close] to close the “Driver Setup” dialog box.

If the “System settings changed” dialog box appears, click [Yes] and restart Windows.

13.

If the installation was not completed successfully, disconnect the USB cable from the VS-700R, and uninstall the
driver by executing
being careful to follow the instructions for the installation procedure.

“Uninstall”

message appears in the lower right corner of the screen, and the driver will

“Installation has been completed”

, found in the same folder as the driver setup. Then install the driver once again,

message appears in the lower right corner of

12

Windows XP Users

Disconnect all USB cables (except those for a USB keyboard and/or USB mouse, if used), then start

1.

up Windows.

2.

Close all currently running software (applications).

Also close all windows that are open. If you are using software such as antivirus programs, be sure to close these
programs as well.

3.

Insert the included “SONAR V-STUDIO 700 CD-ROM” into your computer’s CD/DVD-ROM drive.

The

“VS-700 Setup”

If AutoRun is not enabled, you can start the installer by selecting
(where d:\ is your disc drive).

4.

Click [Next].

Select “Install VS-700 Drivers.”

5.

Click [Next].

6.

AutoRun appears.

Start-Run

and entering

Installation and Registration

d:\VS-700_Setup.exe

7.

To install the driver, click [Next].

If a dialog box regarding Windows logo testing appears, click [Continue Anyway].

This completes preparations for installing the driver.

Leave the screen open; do not close it at this point.

If the “Driver Signing Options” setting was not set to “Ignore,” a “Hardware Installation” dialog box
will appear.

A dialog box with a “ ” symbol will appear.

1. Click [Continue Anyway] and continue the installation.

A dialog box with a “x” symbol will appear.

1. Click [OK].

2. When the “Found New Hardware Wizard” appears, click [Finish].

3. Return to step 1 (p. 13) and re-install the driver from the beginning of the

procedure.

13

Installation and Registration

VS-700C Rear Panel

VS-700R Rear Panel

Dedicated connection
cable (included)

8.

The message “Ready to install the driver.—” will appear.

Perform the following procedure before you connect the VS-700 to your computer.

9.

Due to a circuitry-protection feature, the VS-700R requires a few moments after power-up before it is ready
for normal operation.

Minimize the volume of the connected monitor speakers or external amp, and then connect the VS-700R to
your computer. Even if the volume is minimized, some noise may be audible when you make connections, but
this does not indicate a malfunction.

The system may not be recognized correctly if you connect to a USB hub. If so, connect directly to a USB
port on your computer.

1.

fig.VS-700-connect01e.eps

Use the dedicated connection cable (included) to connect the VS-700C and VS-700R.

fig.VS-700-connect02e.eps

14

2.

Set the VS-700R’s [SAMPLE RATE] knob to 44.1.

VS-700R Front Panel

fig.VS-700-connect03e.eps

VS-700C Rear Panel

VS-700R Rear Panel

Power Cord

Power Cord

to Power Outlet

to Power Outlet

fig.VS-700-connect04-e.eps

Installation and Registration

3.

Minimize the VS-700C’s [AUDIO OUTPUT] knobs (three knobs).

4.

Use the included power cords to connect the VS-700C and VS-700R to AC outlets.

15

Installation and Registration

VS-700C Rear Panel

VS-700R Rear Panel

USB cable (Included)

5.

fig.VS-700-connect05-e.eps

fig.VS-700-connect05-e.eps

fig.VS-700-connect06e.eps

Turn on the power switch of the VS-700C.

Turn on the power switch of the VS-700R.

6.

7.

Use the included USB cable to connect the VS-700R to your computer.

VS-700C Rear Panel

Power On

VS-700R Front Panel

Power On

16

Connect the USB cable to the VS-700R. Don’t connect it to the VS-700C console.

Near the task bar, your computer will indicate

The

“Found New Hardware Wizard”

appears.

“Found New Hardware.”

Please wait.

Installation and Registration

10.

Verify that “VS-700” is shown; then choose “Install the software automatically (recommended)”
and click [Next].

If you are asked whether you want to connect to Windows Update, choose

The system may not be recognized correctly if you connect to a USB hub. If so, connect directly to a USB
port on your computer.

If the Driver Signing Options setting was not set to “Ignore,” a “Hardware Installation” dialog box
will appear.

A dialog box with a “ ” symbol will appear.

1. Click [Continue Anyway] and continue the installation.

The screen will indicate “Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard.”

11.

Click

[Finish]

.

The “Found New Hardware Wizard” will appear.

12.

Verify that

[Next]

13.

The screen will indicate “Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard.”

Click

.

[Finish]

“VS-700M1”

.

is shown; then choose

“Install the software automatically (recommended)”

“No”

and click

[Next]

and click

.

The “Found New Hardware Wizard” will appear.

14.

Verify that

[Next]

The screen will indicate “Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard.”

15.

Click

16.

When the “Installation has been completed.” message appears, installation has been completed.

.

[Finish]

“VS-700M2”

.

is shown; then choose

“Install the software automatically (recommended)”

and click

Click [Close] to close the “Driver Setup” dialog box.

If the “System Settings Change” dialog box appears, click [Yes] to restart Windows.

17.

17

Installation and Registration

Installing the VS-700 Software

The VS-700 Software installer includes the following:

• SONAR VS-700 Control Surface Plug-in

• Fantom VS Editor

• Rapture

• Rapture Expansion Packs

For more information, see

To Install the VS-700 Software

Insert the included “SONAR V-STUDIO 700 CD-ROM” into your computer’s CD/DVD-ROM drive.

1.

The

“VS-700 Setup”

If AutoRun is not enabled, you can start the installer by selecting
(where d:\ is your disc drive).

If the VS-700 CD-ROM is already in you computer’s CD/DVD-ROM drive, eject the CD-ROM and insert it again.

2.

Select “Install VS-700 Software.”

SONAR VS-700 software components

AutoRun appears.

(p. 22).

Start-Run

and entering

d:\VS-700_Setup.exe

3.

Click [Next].

4.

To begin installation, click “Install.”

If SONAR 8 has already been installed, the VS-700 software will be installed. If SONAR 8 has not been installed
yet, the VS-700 software installer (VStudioSetup.exe) will be copied to your hard drive and installed
automatically by the SONAR 8 installer.

18

Connecting your audio equipment

VS-700R Rear Panel

USB cable (included)

Dedicated connection
cable (included)

VS-700C

Stereo
Headphones 2

Stereo
Headphones 1

Monitor (sub)

amplified speakers

Monitor (main)

amplified speakers

Connect your headphones and/or speakers to the VS-700.

* This package does not include sound reproduction equipment such as headphones or speakers.

If you connect headphones or monitor speakers as shown in the illustration, you’ll be able to monitor the playback
audio.

fig.basic-e.eps

Installation and Registration

For details on the VS-700 itself, refer to the included VS-700 Owner’s Manual as well.

19

Installation and Registration

Register SONAR

Before you install SONAR, take a minute to register the software so we can let you know when updates become
available and provide you with technical support. To register anytime, log onto

register

, or call 888-CAKEWALK (U.S.) or [phone] (outside the U.S.) between 9 AM and 8 PM Eastern

Standard Time. If you live outside of North America, please visit our distributor’s page at

http://www.cakewalk.com/ Dealers/International.asp

You’ll need to supply your serial number, your name, and a valid email address.

http://www.cakewalk.com/

to get the telephone number of your local distributor.

20

Installing SONAR

SONAR is easy to install. All you need to do is choose the folder where the program and sample project files should
be stored. Before you start, make sure you have your serial number handy. Your serial number is located on the back
of your DVD case.

Installation note: If you choose to not install the Sample files, you will not have the necessary content to use the
tutorials in the SONAR User’s Guide.

To Install SONAR

Start your computer.

1.

2.

Close any open programs you have running.

Place the SONAR installation disc in your disc drive.

3.

If you have autorun enabled, the SONAR AutoRun menu opens automatically, showing you a dialog box with several
buttons. If autorun is not enabled, you can open the SONAR AutoRun menu by selecting
d:\AutoRun.exe (where d:\ is your disc drive).

4.

Click the [Install] button.

Installation and Registration

Start-Run

and entering

If you exit Setup without completing the installation, choose
is your DVD drive), and click
installation again.

5.

Follow the installation instructions on the screen.

You can also install SONAR by choosing
DVD.

When SONAR 8 has finished installing, additional VS-700 software components will also be installed. For more
information, see

To Uninstall SONAR

Refer to

[OK]

. This will reopen the AutoRun window, and you can click Install to start

“Start-Run”

SONAR VS-700 software components

“Uninstalling SONAR and Other Components”

and running the application named

“Start-Run”

(p. 22).

(p. 62).

, type

“D:\AutoRun.exe”

“SETUP.EXE”

(where D:\

from the

21

Installation and Registration

SONAR VS-700 software components

When SONAR 8 has finished installing, the following VS-700 software components will also be installed.

The installer also presents an option to configure SONAR to default to the VS-700 hardware.

SONAR VS-700 Control Surface Plug-in

The SONAR VS-700 control surface plug-in enables full control of all SONAR tracks, buses, plug-ins and other
parameters from the SONAR VS-700C hardware surface. It also allows you to control the SONAR VS-700R audio
interface.

For detailed instructions, see the SONAR VS-700 online Help.

Before using the SONAR VS-700 control surface plug-in, you must assign the VS-700 MIDI ports. For more
information, see

Fantom VS Editor

Fantom VS Editor is a VSTi synth that lets you edit Fantom VS patches and parameters from within SONAR, and the
results of your editing can be saved in a SONAR project file.

For detailed instructions, see the Fantom VS Editor online Help.

Rapture

Configuring VS-700 MIDI Ports

(p. 58).

Rapture is a wavetable synthesizer with advanced sound manipulation capabilities, well suited for electronica-related
music styles. A comprehensive Modulation Matrix provides expressive control and a unique Step Generator provides
an intuitive interface for the creation of rhythmic parameter changes.

For detailed instructions, see the Rapture online Help.

Rapture Expansion Packs

The Rapture Expansion Packs include hundreds of professional sound programs, wavetables and multisamples that
expand the Rapture factory sound set. Programs include basses, drums, keys, leads, film textures and sound effects,
micropiano, organs, pads, sequences, sweeps, and analog sounds. Wavetables and multisamples include analog
synthesizers, vintage analog and vinyl drums, FM textures, and sound landscapes.

22

Running SONAR for the First Time

Before SONAR 8 can communicate with the VS-700C console and Fantom VS Editor, you must enable and assign the
VS-700 MIDI ports in SONAR, then insert the VS-700 control surface plug-in.

Set the VS-700R I/O’s [SAMPLE RATE] knob to the desired sampling rate.

1.

2.

Power up the VS-700C console.

Power up the VS-700R I/O.

3.

4.

The first time you run SONAR 8, the following message appears: “SONAR will now personalize
your setting by copying...,” Click [OK].

In the “Tips of the Day” dialog, Click [Close].

5.

6.

The following message appears: “Do you have a MIDI controller that you would to use to control
track/bus and plug-in parameters?” Click [Yes] to open the “Controllers/Surfaces” dialog.

7.

Click [MIDI Devices] to open the “MIDI Devices” dialog.

In the “Inputs” and “Outputs” lists, select the following VS-700 MIDI devices that you will use with

8.

SONAR.

Installation and Registration

Input

CONSOLE (VS-700)

DV-7 (VS-700) DV-7 (VS-700)

V-LINK (VS-700) FANTOM VS (VS-700)

FANTOM VS (VS-700) IO MIDI (VS-700)

IO MIDI (VS-700) ARX MIDI (VS-700)

ARX MIDI (VS-700)

Output

CONSOLE (VS-700)

Do NOT enable the “IO (VS-700)” port.

9.

Click [OK] to close the “MIDI Devices” dialog and return to the “Controllers/Surfaces” dialog.

10.

Click the [Add New Controller/Surface] button
dialog.

11.

In the “Controller/Surface” box, select “VS-700.”

Assign both “Input Port” and “Output Port” to “CONSOLE (VS-700).”

12.

13.

Click [OK] to close the “Controller/Surface Settings” dialog.

14.

In the “Controllers/Surfaces” dialog, select the “WAI” and “ACT” check boxes and click [Close].

If you have already run SONAR 8 and skipped these instructions, see

to open the “Controller/Surface Settings”

Configuring VS-700 MIDI Ports

(p. 58).

23

Initial Settings

Audio Driver Settings

As described below, configure SONAR so that you can use the VS-700 as an audio driver.

You’ll need to make these settings in the following cases.

• Immediately after installing SONAR

• If you’ve updated the VS-700 driver

• If you’ve newly installed the VS-700 driver

Keep the VS-700 Owner’s Manual at hand.

Select the Drivers

Verify that the VS-700 is correctly recognized by SONAR.

1.

Choose “Options | Audio” to display the “Audio Options” dialog box.

In the “Audio Options” dialog box, open the “Drivers” tab.

2.

3.

Verify that the VS-700 driver is shown in the “Input Drivers” and “Output Drivers” fields.

Select (check) the following drivers, and clear (uncheck) any other drivers.

24

Input Drivers

VS-700 IN 1-2

VS-700 IN 3-4 VS-700 SUB

VS-700 IN 5-6 VS-700 OUT 1-2

VS-700 IN 7-8 VS-700 OUT 3-4

VS-700 IN DIGITAL1 VS-700 OUT 5-6

VS-700 IN DIGITAL2 1-2 VS-700 OUT 7-8

VS-700 IN DIGITAL2 3-4 VS-700 OUT 9-10

VS-700 IN DIGITAL2 5-6 VS-700 OUT DIGITAL1

VS-700 IN DIGITAL2 7-8 VS-700 OUT DIGITAL2 1-2

VS-700 AUX VS-700 OUT DIGITAL2 3-4

VS-700 ARX VS-700 OUT DIGITAL2 5-6

VS-700 FANTOM VS VS-700 OUT DIGITAL2 7-8

Output Drivers

VS-700 MAIN

If the driver is not shown

Did you connect the VS-700 before starting up SONAR?

Is the interface driver installed correctly?

Refer to “Installing the VS-700 Driver” (p. 8), and verify that the VS-700 driver is installed correctly.

Is the VS-700 correctly connected to your computer?

Is the VS-700 powered on?

4.

Click [OK] to close the dialog box.

If you’re asked to restart SONAR, do so.

* If the window does not close or the settings are not applied when you click

SONAR or Changing Settings”

(p. 48).

[OK]

, refer to

“Problems When Installing

Initial Settings

If the screen indicates

“Audio Driver Error”

, click

[Use Anyway]

.

25

Initial Settings

Other Audio Driver and Audio-Related Settings

You can also set the following options as necessary.

Execute the “Options | Audio” command to open the “Audio Options” dialog box.

1.

By clicking the help button in each dialog box, you can view detailed information about each option.

Audio Options dialog—General tab

Double–precision Engine

Enabling this check box chooses 64-bit (double-precision) mixing in SONAR throughout the entire signal path. This
includes dithering and plug-ins. SONAR will send and receive 64-bit data to and from all plug-ins that accept 64-bit
data. If a plug-in requires 32-bit data, SONAR will send and receive 32-bit data.

Mixing Latency (MME and WDM drivers only)

If you’re using a MIDI keyboard to play software synthesizers, or if you’re using SONAR’s input monitor, you can
shorten the latency (delay until sound is heard) by reducing the I/O Buffer Size.

However, if you reduce the I/O buffer size too far, a greater processing load will be placed on your computer, causing
pops, clicks, and dropouts (interrupted playback). If this occurs, increase the buffer size. ->
(p. 61)

“About Mixing Latency”

Audio Options dialog—Advanced tab

Driver Mode

If an Audio Driver Error appears, adjust

If the driver mode is WDM/KS, try changing to

Use Multiprocessing Engine

Select this check box if you have a multi-core or multi-processor computer.

Record Latency Adjustment

This specifies the offset when performing loopback recording. Measure the offset amount while actually performing
loopback recording, and then enter this value.

26

“Audio Buffer Size”

ASIO

in the

.

“ASIO Panel.”

->

“Troubleshooting”

(p. 45)

Audio Options dialog—Drivers tab

Friendly Names

For each driver, you can change the driver names that are displayed in SONAR. If you want to use this function, enter
the desired name in the Friendly Names field, and select the check box

Drivers”

located at the bottom of the dialog box.

Global Options dialog—Audio Data tab

Initial Settings

“Use Friendly Names to Represent Audio

Global Audio Folder

This specifies the folder where audio data will be held temporarily, for example when a new project is created. If
you’re using a dedicated hard disk drive just for audio data, specify that drive in this field.

File Bit Depths

This specifies the bit depth of the audio files created by recording, audio processing (e.g., freezing or bouncing), and
importing audio.

Options

Record Bit Depth

Render Bit Depth 32

Import Bit Depth Original

To open the

“Global Options”

dialog box, choose the menu command

Default Value

16

“Options | Global.”

27

Initial Settings

MIDI Devices Settings

Here’s how to specify the MIDI devices that you want to use.

Execute the “Options | MIDI Devices” command to open the “MIDI Devices” dialog box.

1.

In the input field and output field of the
you will use with SONAR.

“MIDI Devices”

dialog box, select the following VS-700 MIDI devices that

Input

CONSOLE (VS-700)

DV-7 (VS-700) DV-7 (VS-700)

V-LINK (VS-700) FANTOM VS (VS-700)

FANTOM VS (VS-700) IO MIDI (VS-700)

IO MIDI (VS-700) ARX MIDI (VS-700)

ARX MIDI (VS-700)

Output

CONSOLE (VS-700)

Do NOT enable the “IO (VS-700)” port.

If you’re using an external MIDI sound module, you can use
show the bank names, patch names, and controller function names of typical MIDI sound modules. For
details on

* If you’ve connected an external MIDI device such as an external MIDI keyboard (Edirol PCR series) to your computer via

a USB cable, select such MIDI devices as well. (For details on these MIDI devices, refer to the manuals for the devices
you’re using.)

* In SONAR, don’t use the following MIDI devices shown in the

devices.)

•

MIDI Mapper/Microsoft MIDI Mapper

These are virtual MIDI ports used by Windows, and are not used by SONAR.

•

Microsoft GS Wavetable SW Synth

This monopolizes the audio driver, making it impossible to use audio functionality in SONAR.

•

Roland VSC (stand-alone version)/ the stand-alone versions of other software synthesizers

These are not suitable for use in SONAR, since their latency cannot be managed from SONAR.

“Instrument Definitions”

, refer to the SONAR User’s Guide or the online Help.

“Instrument Definitions”

“MIDI Devices”

dialog box. (Clear the check box for these

so that SONAR will

28

2.

Click [OK] to close the dialog box.

If you’re using Controllers or Surfaces in your system, and you’ve changed the settings of the
dialog box, you may need to re-make the Controllers/Surfaces plug-in settings. When you change the contents
of the

“MIDI Devices”

If you want to use an external MIDI device that’s connected to the VS-700’s MIDI connectors, select the “I/O
MIDI (VS-700)” MIDI port in the

“MIDI Devices”

dialog box, the entire state of the Controllers/Surfaces plug-ins will be initialized.

“MIDI Devices”

dialog box.

Caution regarding MIDI Devices

When using the VS-700 with a ReWire client such as Project5

Set your MIDI keyboard or other MIDI input device so that it will be used by either SONAR or the ReWire client (not
both). If you attempt to use the MIDI input device simultaneously by both, the following problems will occur.

• Your plug-in synthesizer will be triggered twice; once by the MIDI messages sent to the ReWire client via SONAR, and

also by the MIDI messages that are input directly to the ReWire client.

• The ReWire client will be unable to receive MIDI messages from your MIDI keyboard.

When using a controller or surface that supports bi-directional communication

Place this device so that it is at the bottom of the selected MIDI Devices in the
field.

In SONAR, when you open an SMF or create a new MIDI track, priority is given to the higher of the devices selected in
the

“Outputs”

performance data will be sent to the controller/surface, possibly causing unintended results.

field. In this case, if the MIDI Device used to control the controller/surface is higher in the list,

“MIDI Devices”

dialog box

Initial Settings

“Outputs”

To re-order the devices, select the device that you want to move upward, and click the

Devices to Top]

In the “Inputs” and “Outputs” lists, select the following VS-700 MIDI devices that you will use with

3.

button.

[Move Checked

SONAR.

29

Initial Settings

MIDI Controllers/Surfaces Settings

Before you use the VS-700C console to control SONAR, load the VS-700 plug-in and make settings to enable it.

Loading the Controllers/Surfaces Plug-in

1.

Make sure that the VS-700 is connected to your computer, and then start up SONAR.

In SONAR, choose “Options | Controllers/Surfaces” to open the “Controllers/Surfaces” dialog box.

2.

3.

Click the “Add Controller/Surface”
appear.

In the “Controller/Surface Settings” dialog box, in the “Controller/Surface Settings” field, choose

4.

“VS-700.”

5.

Select the controllers’ Input Port and Output Port. Select “CONSOLE (VS-700 CONSOLE)” for both
the Input Port and the Output Port.

Click [OK] to close the dialog box.

6.

7.

In the “Controllers/Surfaces” dialog, make sure that the “WAI” check boxes and the “ACT” check
boxes are enabled, and click [Close].

What is ACT?

button. The “Controller/Surface Settings” dialog box will

If you’re using an Edirol PCR series unit as an external MIDI keyboard, use the dedicated plug-in for the PCR
series. Details on settings and using the plug-in are provided in the section
the

“SONAR 8 Reference Guide”

ACT (Active Controller Technology) is functionality that lets you operate SONAR from an external device
such as a controller or surface. The plug-in effect or software synthesizer that’s active in SONAR will
automatically be the target of control.

For details, refer to the section “ACT” in the “SONAR 8 Reference Guide” (PDF file) on the SONAR 8
DVD-ROM.

(PDF file) on the SONAR 8 DVD-ROM.

“Edirol PCR Controllers”

of

30

VST/VSTi Registration and Settings

About Cakewalk Plug-in Manager

Cakewalk Plug-in Manager allows you to edit the plug-in menu, manage presets, and configure settings
for each VST plug-in.

For details on using Cakewalk Plug-in Manager, refer to the “SONAR 8 Reference Guide” (PDF file), and
to the online Help for Cakewalk Plug-in Manager.

By default, the VST plug-ins included with SONAR are installed in the following folder, and can be used from SONAR
without changing any settings.

C:\Program Files\Cakewalk\VstPlugins

If you have VST plug-ins installed in any other folders, you’ll need to register them in SONAR as follows.

1.

Execute the “Options | Global” command and click the “VST Plug-Ins” tab.

2.

If the folder in which your VST plug-ins are installed does not appear in the “VST Scan Folder(s)
list”, click the [Add] button and specify the folder in which your VST plug-ins are installed.

If a folder in which no VST plug-ins are installed is shown, click the folder name to select it, and then click

When you’ve finished specifying the folders that SONAR should scan, click [OK].

3.

In the “VST Scan” section, click the [Scan VST Folders] button.

4.

Your VST plug-ins have now been registered in SONAR.

Initial Settings

[Remove]

.

31

Initial Settings

Playing a Demo Song

Playing an Audio Demo Song

The SONAR 8 DVD-ROM contains audio demo songs. Here’s how to enjoy these demo songs.

If you listen to the demo songs in SONAR directly from the SONAR 8 DVD-ROM, dropouts (interruptions in the
playback) are likely to occur during playback because data will have to be read from the DVD-ROM. Copy the
demo songs to your desktop or other location before you play them (a good location is the same drive that you
record audio to).

The demo songs included with SONAR are created at a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz. To play them, both the VS-700R’s
[SAMPLE RATE] knob and the SONAR Audio Driver must be set to the 44.1 kHz setting. If the audio driver’s sampling
rate has been set otherwise, change the sampling rate to 44.1 kHz as described in

1.

Using Windows Explorer, copy the entire demo song folder “Urban Authentic” from the “Demo
Projects” folder on the “SONAR 8 additional content” DVD-ROM to your hard disk (e.g., the audio
drive).

* When you’ve finished copying the data, remove the DVD-ROM from your computer and keep it in a safe place.

Start up SONAR, execute the “File | Open” command to open the “Open” dialog box, and select the

2.

project file “Still_Dreamin” within the folder you copied in step 1.

“About Sampling Rates”

(p. 60).

fig.play.eps

32

3.

Click [Open] to open the project. Wait until the project has finished loading.

4.

Press the VS-700C’s (PLAY) button.

5.

Adjust the volume of the VS-700C and your sound reinforcement equipment (monitor speakers,
etc.).

fig.VS-700-connect03e2.eps

Controls the volume of headphones 1 and 2.

Selects the output–source (main or
sub) for headphones 1 and 2. Main
is selected when the button is
extinguished, and sub is selected
when the button is lit.

If the song does not play correctly, check the following items

If an error occurs during playback

Does the project’s Sampling Rate match the VS-700R’s [SAMPLE RATE] knob?

The project’s Sampling Rate is shown in the bottom right of the SONAR window in the form of
this does not match the VS-700R’s
700R’s power off, then on again, and restart SONAR. Also make sure that the sampling rate is set to
described in

“About Sampling Rates”

Controls the volume of
the VS-700R I/O unit's
monitor output (main
or sub). Does not affect
the headphone output
volume.

[SAMPLE RATE]

(p. 60).

knob, change the [SAMPLE RATE] knob to

Initial Settings

“44.1kHz, 16-bit.”

“44.1”

, turn the VS-

“44100”

as

If

If you don’t hear sound

If you don’t hear sound, check the settings of the audio interface and your sound reinforcement equipment.

If you don’t hear sound and the audio track’s level meters are not moving either, there may be a problem with the
settings of the audio driver. Check the settings as described in

If the CPU meter indicates a high value

If the CPU meter is staying in the green area, there is probably
no problem. If you don’t hear noise or dropouts
(interruptions in the playback) even though the meter
reaches the yellow area, this means that your computer’s
capabilities are being used nearly to their limit.

The CPU meter is displayed as part of the Large
Transport. If the Large Transport is not shown,
press the F4 key to make it appear.

“Audio Driver Settings”

(p. 24).

33

Initial Settings

If you hear noise, or if the playback halts

Dropouts may occur during playback or recording if you connect/disconnect another USB device (such as a
memory key), or switch a device's power on/off at the same time that the VS-700 is being used.

Data transfer using USB could get congested if you use the VS-700 and a USB-connected hard disk at the same
time. As a result, the data transfer speed for the hard disk could be significantly reduced. As a storage location
for the audio data that you record and play back, you should avoid using a hard disk that is connected via USB.

Dropouts during playback/recording sometimes occur immediately after the system has started up, or after it
has woken from sleep. Wait for a while, then try the playback/recording again.

Either the project is a very large one that your computer has insufficient power to play back, or there is a problem
with the settings of the audio driver.

Check the settings as described in

If this does not solve the problem, refer to

If the DISK meter indicates a high value

Could you be playing the demo song directly from the SONAR
8 DVD-ROM?

Copy the demo song to your hard disk, and play back the
copied demo song.

If the DISK meter is staying in the green area, there is probably
no problem. If the meter is reaching the yellow area but you
don’t hear noise or dropouts (interruptions in the playback),
this means that your computer’s capabilities are being used
nearly to their limit.

If you copied the demo song to a hard disk that’s connected
via USB or IEEE 1394 (FireWire), the DISK meter may indicate a
relatively high value.

The DISK meter may also indicate a relatively high value if you’re using a notebook PC.

“Audio Driver Settings”

“Eliminating Clicks and Dropouts”

(p. 24) and try playing it back again.

(p. 54).

34

The DISK meter is displayed as part of the Large Transport. If the Large Transport is not shown, press the F4
key to make it appear.

6.

When you’ve finished listening to the demo song, choose “File | Close.” If you’re asked whether
you want to save the changes, click [No].

Playing Back the MIDI Demo Songs

Turn (Input Echo) button “on.”

Set drivers as follows
I (Input) “Stereo VS-700 FANTOM VS”
O (Output) “VS-700 MAIN”

Here’s how to play back a MIDI demo song to play the “Fantom VS” synthesizer that’s built into the VS-700R.

Execute the “File | Open” command to open the “Open” dialog box.

1.

2.

In the “<USER NAME>/Documents/Cakewalk/SONAR 8 Producer Edition/Sample Content” folder,
select the project file “2-Part Invention #13 in A minor” and click “Open.”

* For Windows XP users, this file is located in

Content.”

* If the

3.

fig.FantomVS-MIDI01e.eps

“Auto-Send Sysx dialog”

Prepare an audio track for the “Fantom VS” internal synthesizer.

1.

Execute “Insert | Audio Track” to add an audio track to the project.

For the audio track you added (Track 3), configure the controls as shown in the

2.

illustration.

dialog box appears, click

Initial Settings

“My Documents/Cakewalk/SONAR 8 Producer Edition/Sample

[OK]

.

* For details on the track display, refer to

4.

Change the output destination of each MIDI track to “Fantom VS (VS-700).”

Execute “Edit | Select | All.”

1.

2.

Choose “Tracks | Property | Outputs” to open the track outputs.

3.

In the “MIDI Outputs” field, choose “Fantom VS (VS-700).”

4.

Click [OK] to close the dialog box.

“About the track display”

(p. 38).

35

Initial Settings

Controls the volume of headphones 1 and 2.

Controls the volume of
the VS-700R I/O unit's
monitor output (main
or sub). Does not affect
the headphone output
volume.

Selects the output–source (main or
sub) for headphones 1 and 2. Main
is selected when the button is
extinguished, and sub is selected
when the button is lit.

fig.play.eps

5.

6.

fig.VS-700-connect03e2.eps

Press the VS-700C’s

(PLAY) button.

Adjust the volume of the VS-700C and of your sound reinforcement equipment (monitor speakers,
etc.).

36

7.

When you’ve finished listening to the demo song, choose “File | Close.” If you’re asked whether
you want to save the changes, click [No].

Recording Audio

VS-700R Rear Panel

VS-700C Front Panel

VS-700R Rear Panel

Connecting a Mic

The VS-700R provides a balanced (XLR) type connector that
is wired as shown in the illustration. Check the wiring of
your device before connecting it.

When using a condenser mic that requires a balanced (XLR) connection that
supplies phantom power, set [+48] button ON (PHANTOM ON).

When using a dynamic mic etc. that has a phone plug, set [+48] button OFF
(PHANTOM OFF).

You must leave the phantom power turned off unless you’ve connected a condenser mic that
requires a phantom power supply. Supplying phantom power to a dynamic mic or audio playback
device will cause malfunctions. For details on the specifications of your mic, refer to the owner’s
manual for your mic.

Connecting a Guitar or Bass

Connecting Synthesizers or Audio Equipment

For a guitar or bass,
select the “Hi-Z” setting.

If you want to connect a guitar or bass directly, connect it to the
AUX IN jack located on the front panel of the VS-700C console.

If you want to connect equipment such as a synthesizer or effects processor, use
audio cables to connect the output connectors of such devices to the VS-700R’s
INPUT jacks (1, 2).

The eight audio inputs (INPUT 1–8) contain phantom power supplies. From SONAR’s
“Tools” menu, open “ VS-700” and select the “MIC PRE” tab, and click [+48] button to
make settings. When the system is powered up, the phantom power will be turned off.
When you load a project in SONAR, the state that is saved in the project will be reflected.

Use this to adjust the recording
level.

Mics with phone plugs

Mics with phone plugs

Mics with
balanced (XLR) plugs

VS-700C Front Panel

For a mic,
select the “NORMAL” setting.

Use this to adjust the recording
level.

1. Connect Instruments and Mics

In order to record audio, you must connect your instruments and mics to the VS-700. Here are some typical ways to
make connections.

Initial Settings

* The VS-700 provides mic preamps and compressors on each of the eight audio inputs (INPUT 1–8). You can produce a

fatter sound by applying a compressor to the input signal from the mic or other audio source. For details, refer to the

“VS-700R I/O”

chapter in the VS-700 Owner’s Manual.

37

Initial Settings

fig.VS-700-rec02-digi-e.eps

Connecting a Digital Audio Source

If you want to digitally connect a DAT or similar device, connect its output connector (e.g., DIGITAL OUT connector) to the VS-700R's DIGITAL IN
connector.

VS-700R Rear Panel

The DIGITAL 1 coaxial connector and AES/EBU connector
are a mutually exclusive selection. To make your choice, go
to SONAR’s “Tools” menu, open “VS-700,” select the “MIC
PRE” tab, and make the desired setting in the “DIGITAL 1
INPUT” field.

If you're connecting an ADAT device,
connect it to the ADAT connector.
A maximum of eight channels can be input

2. Create a New File

Start up SONAR, and from the

“Name”

field, enter the desired name for the song you’ll be creating. Then, in the

“Normal”

By default, two audio tracks and two MIDI tracks will be created.

In this example, we’ll start by recording an audio track (track 1).

About the track display

fig.63-1e.eps

and press the

A track in SONAR has numerous
parameters. Depending on the display
settings, some parameters might not
be shown, or might be shown in
different locations.

To change the track display, you can
press the [maximize] button, “drag

the display region”, or use the “track
parameter display switching tabs.”

If you select “ALL” from the “track
parameter display switching tabs”,

all parameters will be shown.

Using an
AES/EBU

connector

“File”

menu choose

[OK]

button to open SONAR’s initial screen.

Using
a coaxial
connector

“New”

to access the

“New Project File”

“Template”

dialog box. In the

field, choose

maximize

drag the display region

38

track parameter display
switching tabs

3. Select the Input for the Track

Initial Settings

fig.P30-1.eps

Click the

“Input”

field of Track 1 (Audio 1), and select the following as the audio driver that will be used for recording.

Jack/Connector

INPUT1, 2 Jacks

INPUT3, 4 Jacks VS-700 IN 3-4

INPUT5, 6 Jacks VS-700 IN 5-6

INPUT7, 8 Jacks VS-700 IN 7-8

AUX IN Jack (VS-700C) VS-700 AUX

DIGITAL 1 Connector VS-700 IN DIGITAL1

DIGITAL 2 Connector (ADAT)

Audio Driver

VS-700 IN 1-2

VS-700 IN DIGITAL2 1-2

VS-700 IN DIGITAL2 3-4

VS-700 IN DIGITAL2 5-6

VS-700 IN DIGITAL2 7-8

* If you select “Stereo–” when recording a single mic or guitar, the audio will be recorded only for one side of the stereo

pair. To record on both channels, select either “left–” or “right–.”

39

Initial Settings

4. Arm the Track for Recording

We’ll start by recording Track 1 (Audio 1).

fig.ARM.eps

Press the VS-700C’s TRACK 1

[ARM]

button.

fig.qg002.eps

Alternatively, you can arm this track for recording by pressing the

[R]

button for

“Audio 1”

in SONAR.

40

5. Enable Input Monitoring for Recording

Next, you need to enable input monitoring on the track so you can monitor the audio signal that is being recorded.

fig.P30-1.eps

Hold down the VS-700C’s

[SHIFT]

modifier button and press the TRACK 1

[MUTE]

Initial Settings

button.

fig.qg002.eps

Alternatively, you can enable input monitoring for this track by pressing the
SONAR.

button for

“Audio 1”

in

41

Initial Settings

6. Adjust the Level

In order to record at the best possible audio quality, you should adjust the input level (mic pre gain) until it is as high
as you can get it without causing the input/output level indicator on the VS-700R audio interface to light in red.

1.

Press the VS-700C’s [I/O CONTROL] button.

To adjust the input level, use the channel strip encoder knob that corresponds to the channel your

2.

instrument or microphone is connected to.

In I/O CONTROL mode, the channel strip encoders are assigned to “
are currently assigned to “
assigned to “

As you adjust the fader, pay attention to the level indicators on the VS-700R and the audio track’s record meter in
SONAR.

Input level adjustments can also be made from the VS-700 property page.

Mic Pre Gain

Threshold

.”

”, “

Attack

” or “

Release

Mic Pre Gain

”, press the

[ASSIGN]

” by default. If the encoders

button until the encoders are

1. Do one of the following to open the VS-700 property page:

• On SONAR’s “Tools” menu, click “VS-700.”

• Hold down the VS-700C’s [COMMAND] modifier button and press the [I/O CONTROL] button

The SONAR VS-700 property page appears.

2. Click the “MIC PRE” tab.

3. Use the “Input Sensitivity” fader (for the channel that your instrument or microphone is

connected to) to adjust the input level.

42

7. Turn On the Metronome

Initial Settings

fig.qg005.eps

fig.sh-41.eps

From the menu, choose

Choose

“Use Audio Metronome.”

Then select the

You can double-click the tempo indication and type the desired tempo value. Type a numerical value, and press the
[Enter] key to confirm it.

“Options | Project”

“Output”

, and choose the

menu, choose the metronome output port, and click

“Metronome”

tab.

[OK]

.

This completes the preparations.

43

Initial Settings

8. Now Let’s Record!

fig.play2.eps

fig.undo.eps

Press the

Press the (Stop) button to stop recording.

Press the (Play) button to hear what you recorded.

If you’re not satisfied with your performance, you can easily re-record it.

After stopping recording but before performing any other operation, press the VS-700C’s
waveform that had been displayed will disappear. Re-recording is as simple as that, so you can continue recording
until you’ve captured a performance you’re satisfied with.

(Record) button to start recording.

[UNDO]

button; the

You can also Undo by holding down

Dropouts may occur during playback or recording if you connect/disconnect another USB device (such as a
memory key), or switch a device's power on/off at the same time that the VS-700 is being used.

Data transfer using USB could get congested if you use the VS-700 and a USB-connected hard disk at the same
time. As a result, the data transfer speed for the hard disk could be significantly reduced. As a storage location
for the audio data that you record and play back, you should avoid using a hard disk that is connected via USB.

[Ctrl]

and pressing

[Z]

on your computer keyboard.

44

Dropouts during playback/recording sometimes occur immediately after the system has started up, or after it
has woken from sleep. Wait for a while, then try the playback/recording again.

You’ve successfully installed SONAR.

Your next step is to read the SONAR User’s Guide and master the basic operations!

Troubleshooting

1.

This chapter lists problems that might occur when setting up this product, and explains how to
solve these problems. If you experience a problem during installation, read this chapter first.

2.

If the system still does not operate as you expect even though you’ve checked the points listed in
this chapter, refer to the following documents as well.

VS-700 Owner’s Manual

The VS-700 Owner’s Manual contains cautions and detailed information about using the VS-700.

SONAR User’s Guide

This explains how to operate SONAR; read this guide when you’re not sure how to use SONAR’s basic functionality.

Online Help

SONAR’s Online Help is an organized collection of information that covers everything from operation to full details of
all functions and commands. To view this, start up SONAR, and from the

You can open the Search tab and type a keyword to search for related topics.

README.RTF (online document; Rich Text Format)

This contains supplementary information about SONAR, information about changes from older versions of Cakewalk
products, and cautions regarding use in specific types of systems. To view this, access SONAR’s
execute

“View README.RTF.”

“Help”

menu choose

“Help Topics.”

“Help”

menu and

Read1st.rtf (online document; Rich Text Format)

This is located in the root directory of the SONAR 8 DVD-ROM. The SONAR 8 DVD-ROM contains various tools and
sample data to help you take full advantage of SONAR. Read1st.rtf contains detailed information about the files on
the DVD-ROM, so be sure to read it before you use the various tools or data.

Cakewalk Website (http://www.cakewalk.com/)

Here you can obtain the latest information about Cakewalk products.

45

Troubleshooting

Problems When Installing VS-700 Driver or Changing Settings

Problem

Can’t Install/Uninstall/
Use the Driver

Points to check Action

Is the USB connector of your
computer usable?

Can your computer or USB hub
supply enough power?

Does your computer meet the
requirements of the USB
specifications?

Did you log on to Windows with
the appropriate user privileges?

Driver Signing Option Setting

Is the VS-700’s MIDI/WAVE device
name shown?

Refer to the owner’s manual of your computer, and verify that the USB connector is
usable. You can’t install the driver unless the USB connector is usable.

Check whether the following cases might apply.

• If you’re using a notebook computer that’s running on batteries, the VS-700 might
not operate stably with some computers. If so, connect your computer to its AC
adaptor.

• The power conservation settings of your computer may be limiting the power that is
supplied to USB. Take another look at the settings of your computer.

• Some bus powered USB hubs cannot be used with the VS-700. Use a USB hub that
contains a power supply.

If your computer does not meet the electrical requirements of the USB specifications,
the VS-700 may not operate stably. If so, you may be able to solve the problem by using
a self-powered USB hub.

You must log onto Windows using one of the following user names.

• A user belonging to the Administrators group (e.g., Administrator)

• A user whose account type is Computer Administrator

You may be unable to install the driver because of the
setting. Check the following points, and make the appropriate setting.

1.

Open the System

2.

Click the

3.

The

Options”

4.

Click

5.

Install the driver as described in the

* After you’ve completed the installation, you can return the driver signing options

setting to its original state.

If the device name is not shown, close all applications that are using the VS-700,
disconnect the USB cable from the VS-700, and then reconnect it.
If this does not solve the problem, uninstall the driver as described in

VS-700 Driver”

“Driver Signing Option”

1.

From the Windows

2.

In

3.

Under

* Depending on your setup, the System icon may be shown directly in the

Control Panel (the Classic view). If so, double-click the System icon.

“Driver Signing Options”

[OK]

“Properties”

“Pick a category,”

“Pick a Control Panel icon,”

“Hardware”

dialog box, choose

to close the

(p. 57), and then install the driver once again.(p. 8)

dialog box.

“Start”

menu, open the

click

“Performance and maintenance.”

tab, and then click

dialog box will appear. In the

“Warn”

“System Properties”

or

“Installation”

“Control Panel.”

click the

“System”

[Driver Signing]

“Ignore,”

and then click

dialog box.

procedure.

icon.

.

“Driver Signing

[OK]

“Uninstalling

.

46

Troubleshooting

Problem

Can’t Select the VS-700
Device

Some devices are not
shown

The Computer Asks You
for the Driver File Even
Though You’ve Installed
it

Points to check Action

If you are unable to use the VS-700 even though the driver was installed, it is possible

Was the driver installed correctly?

Could the computer have entered
standby (suspend) mode or
hibernation while the VS-700 was
connected?

Could you have disconnected and
reconnected the USB cable while
using the VS-700?

On some computers, the driver will
not be loaded correctly if the VS­700 is already connected when
Windows starts up, making the VS­700 unusable via USB.

Have you allowed sufficient time
between disconnecting and
reconnecting the USB cable, or
turning the VS-700R I/O unit’s
power off and then on again?

Windows XP:
If you connect the VS-700 to a
different USB connector than
previously, the computer may ask
you for the driver file.

that the driver was not installed correctly. Uninstall the driver as described in

“Uninstalling VS-700 Driver”

If the VS-700 does not operate correctly after your computer resumes from standby
(suspend) mode or hibernation, close all applications you’re using, disconnect the USB
cable from the VS-700, and then reconnect it.

The VS-700 may stop operating correctly if you disconnect and reconnect the USB
cable during use. In this case, close all applications that are using the VS-700,
disconnect the USB cable from the VS-700, and then reconnect it.

In this case, connect the VS-700 after Windows has started up.

Depending on the computer you’re using, it may take some time for processing to be
completed when you disconnect and reconnect a USB cable, or when you turn the VS­700R I/O unit’s power off and then on again. Reconnect the USB cable as described in
the following procedure.

1.

Close SONAR.

2.

Disconnect the USB cable, and wait several seconds.

3.

Connect the USB cable, and wait several seconds.

4.

Start SONAR.

This is normal behavior, and should not be a cause for concern. Install the driver
according to the following procedure.

1.

Use the USB cable to connect the VS-700 to your computer.
The indication
screen. Wait for the

* It may take some time for the

2.

If you are asked whether you want to connect to Windows Update, choose
click

3.

Choose

4.

If the
installation.

* If you are unable to continue, click

signing option settings.”

5.

When

(p. 57), and then install the driver once again.(p. 8)

“Found new hardware”

“Found New Hardware Wizard”

[Next]

.

“Install the software automatically (recommended),”

“Hardware Installation”

“Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard”

will appear in the lower right corner of the

“Found New Hardware Wizard”

dialog box appears, click

[OK]

to halt the installation, and refer to

to appear.

to appear.

and click

[Continue]

appears, click

“No”

and

[Next]

to continue the

“Driver

[Finish]

.

.

47

Troubleshooting

Problems When Installing SONAR or Changing Settings

Problem

Can’t install SONAR

Plug-ins are not installed

Plug-ins are installed but
not shown

“Audio Driver Error”
appears

Clicking [OK] in the Audio
Options dialog does not
close the dialog box

Points to check Action

Could you have attempted to
install SONAR as a user without
administrative privileges?

Is the SONAR 8 DVD-ROM correctly
inserted in the DVD drive?

Could system monitoring software
such as an anti-virus program be
running?

Did you attempt to install from a
network drive?

Is there enough hard disk space? Your hard drive must have at least 30 GB of free space.

The plug-ins are not installed
(registered) in the Start menu.

By default, some of the plug-ins are
not installed.

It may be that a plug-in is disabled.

Is the Audio Driver setting
appropriate?

Could you be using a stand-alone
version of a software synthesizer
(such as the stand-alone version of
the Roland VSC)?

Could an input-only or output-only
audio driver be installed, such as
for a USB speaker or USB mic?

Could your computer’s internal
sound card be enabled?

In order to install SONAR, you must log on as a user who has administrative privileges.
Installation will not occur correctly if any other user attempts this.

If the DVD drive or the SONAR 8 DVD-ROM is dirty, use a commercially available cleaner
to clean it.

Close such software until installation is completed. For details on how to close the
software, refer to the documentation for your computer or for the software you’re
using.

You must install from a local drive.

The software synthesizers included with SONAR are all plug-in versions. Unlike the
stand-alone versions,
order to use the plug-in software synthesizers included with SONAR, you must call
them up from within SONAR. For details on how to do this, refer to the separate User’s
Guide.

Some of the plug-ins are not installed by default. You can install them later if desired.

Check whether the plug-in might be disabled in the plug-in manager. For more about
the plug-in manager, refer to the separate User’s Guide.

Make sure that SONAR’s Sampling Rate (p. 60) is the same as the setting of the VS­700R’s

[SAMPLE RATE]

If an audio driver not being used by SONAR is installed, try either disabling that driver
or disconnecting the corresponding audio interface from your computer.
Try changing the Driver Mode (p. 26).

In this case, your settings might not be applied when you click
Options dialog box. Try uninstalling the stand-alone version of the software
synthesizer.

In this case, your settings might not be applied when you click
Options dialog box. Try disabling those audio drivers.

Some internal sound cards may cause problems for other audio drivers. In this case, try
disabling the internal sound card in the device manager or in your computer’s BIOS
screen.

they will not be registered in the Windows Start menu

knob.

[OK]

in the Audio

[OK]

in the Audio

. In

48

Problems at Startup with SONAR

Troubleshooting

Problem

Can’t start up

“Audio Driver Error” is
displayed

Notation displayed
incorrectly in Staff View

An error such as
“Unknown Error in
Sequencer.DLL” appears

Points to check Action

Could numerous applications be
running?

Could memory-resident programs
be running?

Could you be using other music
application software?

Are the audio driver settings
appropriate?

Do the audio data format settings
match?

It may be that Windows has
become temporarily unstable.

SONAR was not installed correctly.

It may be that SONAR cannot start up because there is insufficient memory. Close other
applications before you start up SONAR. If an error still appears, try restarting Windows.

Memory-resident programs such as anti-virus software may prevent SONAR from
running correctly. Try closing such software before starting SONAR.

If Media Player or any other application that has audio playback capability is running,
SONAR won’t be able to use the audio driver, and an error will appear when SONAR is
started. Close the audio playback application, and then start SONAR again.

Make sure that SONAR’s Sampling Rate (p. 60) matches the settings of the VS-700R’s

[SAMPLE RATE]

If an audio driver not being used by SONAR is installed, try either disabling that driver
or disconnecting the corresponding audio interface from your computer.
Try changing the Driver Mode (p. 26).

Make sure that the Sampling Rate of the audio used in your project, the Sampling Rate
of SONAR, and the setting of the VS-700R’s

“About Sampling Rates”

Try restarting Windows.

Proceed as follows to re-install SONAR.

1.

Log on as a user who has administrative privileges.

2.

Click the Windows Start button, and then click Control Panel.

3.

Click Programs and Features (in Windows XP, Add or Remove Programs)

4.

In the list of programs, click SONAR 8.

5.

Click Uninstall (in Windows XP, Remove) to uninstall SONAR.

* If a User Account Control dialog box appears, click Continue.

6.

After uninstalling SONAR, restart Windows.

7.

When Windows has restarted, re-install SONAR as described in

“Installing SONAR”

knob.

(p. 60)

(p. 21).

[SAMPLE RATE]

knob all match.

49

Troubleshooting

Problems with Playback

Problem

Can’t open song data

No sound at all

No sound at all

No MIDI sounds

Points to check Action

Is there sufficient free space on the
hard disk?

A message indicates “Not a
Cakewalk Format File.”

Is your sound reproduction
equipment (speakers,
headphones) connected correctly?

Is the power switch turned on? Make sure that your sound reproduction system and the VS-700 are powered up.

Are the volume knobs raised?

Is the VS-700’s driver correctly
installed?

Do the audio data format settings
match?

Could you have switched off the
VS-700’s power or disconnected
the USB cable while SONAR was
running?

Could your computer has entered
Suspend mode while SONAR was
running?

Could a message be indicating
“Unable to Open Audio Playback
Device”?

Does the song contain only MIDI
data?

Could more than one music
application be running?

Are the MIDI Devices settings
correct?

When opening a bundled file, make sure that there is sufficient space on the hard disk
(at least as much as the size of the song data)

It may be that the file has been damaged. You may be able to recover some of the data
by opening the file in

Recovery Mode

Connect your audio reproduction equipment.
”Connecting your sound reproduction system” (p. 19)

Make sure that the volume knobs of your sound reproduction system and the VS-700’s

[AUDIO OUTPUT]

Make sure that the VS-700’s driver is installed correctly.

Make sure that the Sampling Rate of the audio used in your project, the Sampling Rate
of SONAR, and the setting of the VS-700R’s

“About Sampling Rates”

If you perform such actions while SONAR is running, communication between SONAR
and the VS-700 will be interrupted, and SONAR may stop responding.
Check the connection to the VS-700, restart your computer, and restart SONAR.

If Media Player or another application that has audio playback capability is running,
SONAR won’t be able to use the audio driver, and an error will appear when SONAR is
started. Close the audio playback application, and then start SONAR again.

Make sure that SONAR’s Sampling Rate (p. 60) matches the settings of the VS-700R’s

[SAMPLE RATE]

If an audio driver not being used by SONAR is installed, try either disabling that driver
or disconnecting the corresponding audio interface from your computer.
Try changing the Driver Mode (p. 26).

Make sure that the Sampling Rate of the audio used in your project, the Sampling Rate
of SONAR, and the setting of the VS-700R’s

“About Sampling Rates”

MIDI data can be played using the “Fantom VS” synthesizer that’s built into the VS­700R.

“Playing Back the MIDI Demo Songs”

If multiple music applications are running at the same time, close the other software. If
an indication remains in the taskbar even after you close the window, the software is
still running; you must also close the software that’s shown in the taskbar.

Make MIDI device settings as described in

Safe Mode

.

knob are raised.

(p. 60)

knob.

(p. 60)

. For details, refer to the online help file section

[SAMPLE RATE]

[SAMPLE RATE]

(p. 35)

“MIDI Devices Settings”

knob all match.

knob all match.

(p. 28).

File

50

Troubleshooting

Problem

Fantom VS:
GM or other MIDI data
will not play correctly

There are Interruptions,
Dropouts, or Other
Problems in the Sound
During Playback

Points to check Action

1.

Make a note of the number (port number) that's shown before the MIDI OUT port of

Specify the System Exclusive
output destination

Could you have connected/
disconnected another USB device,
such as a memory key?

Are you using a hard disk that is
connected via USB?

Did the dropout occur immediately
after the system started up, or after
it woke from sleep?

Windows Update/ Microsoft
Update

Windows XP:
System “Performance Options”
settings

“Audio Buffer Size” in the setting
dialog box

Clicks or pops may occur in the
sound if a LAN is operating

Windows XP:
“Hardware Acceleration” in the
Display Details

You may be able to solve the
problem by selecting the

Load”

check box in the Settings

dialog box.

Try adjusting the audio buffer size
in SONAR.

Could you have connected the VS­700 to a USB hub?

“Light

the track.

2.

Open “Views | Sysx.”

3.

Select the System Exclusive message that will be output.

4.

In the “Sysx Bank Output” dialog box, specify the port number you noted in step 1.

Dropouts may occur during playback or recording if you connect/disconnect another
USB device (such as a memory key), or switch a device's power on/off at the same time
that the VS-700 is being used.

Data transfer using USB could get congested if you use the VS-700 and a USB­connected hard disk at the same time. As a result, the data transfer speed for the hard
disk could be significantly reduced. As a storage location for the audio data that you
record and play back, you should avoid using a hard disk that is connected via USB.

Dropouts during playback/recording sometimes occur immediately after the system
has started up, or after it has woken from sleep. Wait for a while, then try the playback/
recording again.

Use Microsoft Corporation’s Windows Update or Microsoft Update to update your
system to the most recent state.

Follow the procedure described in

(Windows XP)”

1.

Open the Settings dialog box as described in

2.

Increase the

Try disabling the LAN in Device Manager. If this eliminates the clicks or pops, you may
be able to solve the problem by updating your LAN driver or BIOS.

You may be able to eliminate noise during audio playback by adjusting the graphics
acceleration setting.

1.

Open the

* If you don’t see the above icon, click

“Display.”

2.

Click the

3.

Click

4.

Adjust the

5.

In
computer.

To view or change this setting, follow the procedure described in

settings”

*After you’ve changed this setting, you must disconnect the USB cable from the VS-700
and then reconnect it so that the change will take effect. If you are not experiencing
problems, leave this check box cleared (the default setting).

First, try adjusting the audio buffer size in SONAR.(

54)) If you still experience clicks or pops during playback or recording, try adjusting the

“Audio Buffer Size”

Try connecting the VS-700 directly to a USB connector on your computer.

(p. 59).

“Audio Buffer Size.”

“Control Panel,”

“Settings”

[Advanced]

“Display Properties,”

(p. 56)

tab.

-

“Troubleshoot”

“Hardware acceleration”

in the driver settings panel.(p. 56)

“Giving Priority to Background Service

“VS-700 Driver settings”

and double-click

click

[OK]

“Display.”

“Appearance and Thems,”

tab.

slider, and click

to close the dialog box. Then restart your

[OK]

“Change the I/O Buffer Size”

(p. 56).

and then click

.

“VS-700 Driver

(p.

51

Troubleshooting

Problem

There are Interruptions,
Dropouts, or Other
Problems in the Sound
During Playback

Playback Halts Midway,
and Subsequent
Playback is Not Possible

Points to check Action

Windows XP:
The power management settings
in the control panel may be
causing audio playback to be
interrupted.

While you were using the VS-700,
could your computer have
performed a task with a heavy
processing load, such as accessing
a CD-ROM drive or the network?

Problems with Recording

Problem

Can’t record

Dropouts occur in the
recording

Points to check Action

Could a message be indicating
“Unable to open audio record
device”?

Could you have connected/
disconnected another USB device,
such as a memory key?

Are you using a hard disk that is
connected via USB?

Did the dropout occur immediately
after the system started up, or after
it woke from sleep?

Use the following procedure to check the settings.
* The contents of the power properties that appear when you double-click power

management will depend on your computer system.

* The example shown here is for a typical system. You should refer to the owner’s

manual of your computer for details.

* Some computers may not have the following settings.

1.

From the Windows
The

“System Properties”

2.

Click the

3.

Click

“Device Manager”

4.

From the list, choose

“Properties.”

The

“Advanced Power Management Support Properties”

5.

Click the

supply status”

6.

In the

“System Properties”

7.

Restart Windows.

If a heavy processing load occurs while the VS-700 is being used, it may not work
correctly. In this case, stop playback, and then start playback once again.
If you are still unable to play, close all software that was using the VS-700, disconnect
the USB cable from the VS-700, and then reconnect it.

If Media Player or another application that has audio playback capability is running,
SONAR won’t be able to use the audio driver, and an error will appear when SONAR is
started. Close the audio playback application, and then start SONAR again.

Make sure that SONAR’s Sampling Rate (p. 60) matches the settings of the VS-700R’s

[SAMPLE RATE]

If an audio driver not being used by SONAR is installed, try either disabling that driver
or disconnecting the corresponding audio interface from your computer.
Try changing the Driver Mode (p. 26).

Make sure that the Sampling Rate of the audio used in your project, the Sampling Rate
of SONAR, and the setting of the VS-700R’s

“About Sampling Rates”

Dropouts may occur during playback or recording if you connect/disconnect another
USB device (such as a memory key), or switch a device's power on/off at the same time
that the VS-700 is being used.

Data transfer using USB could get congested if you use the VS-700 and a USB­connected hard disk at the same time. As a result, the data transfer speed for the hard
disk could be significantly reduced. As a storage location for the audio data that you
record and play back, you should avoid using a hard disk that is connected via USB.

Dropouts during playback/recording sometimes occur immediately after the system
has started up, or after it has woken from sleep. Wait for a while, then try the playback/
recording again.

“Control Panel,”

“Hardware”

“Advanced Power Management Support,”

“Settings”

tab. In Troubleshooting, select the

check box, and click

knob.

dialog box will appear.

tab.

to access the list of devices.

(p. 60)

double-click the

[OK]

dialog box, click

.

[SAMPLE RATE]

[OK]

“System”

icon.

dialog box will appear.

“Don’t poll the power

.

knob all match.

and click

52

Troubleshooting

Problem

Recording Halts Midway,
and Subsequent
Recording is Not Possible

Can’t Record via a Digital
Connection

Noise or Distortion is
Heard in Sound that’s
Not Played by Your
Computer

Noise is Heard with the
Guitar Sound

Guitar Sound is Not Loud
Enough

Microphone is Not Loud
Enough

Sound of the Device
Connected to the Input
Jacks is Distorted

Points to check Action

While you were using the VS-700,
could your computer have
performed a task with a heavy
processing load, such as accessing
a CD-ROM drive or the network?

Does the sample rate setting of
SONAR match the sample rate of
the digital device that’s connected
to the digital input connector?

Could a microphone or guitar be
left connected?

Have you grounded the computer?

Does lowering your guitar’s
volume decrease the noise?

Are you using the correct
connector?

Is the input impedance select
switch set correctly?

Could you be using a connection
cable that contains a resistor?

Connect your microphone to the INPUT 1–8 or AUX IN jack.

Is the input level set appropriately? Adjust the input level. (p. 42)

Could you be using a connection
cable that contains a resistor?

Could the peak indicator of the VS­700R front panel be lighting?

If a heavy processing load occurs while the VS-700 is being used, it may not work
correctly. In this case, stop recording, and then start recording once again.
If you are still unable to record, close all software that was using the VS-700, disconnect
the USB cable from the VS-700, and then reconnect it.

Set them to the same sample rate.

If a microphone or guitar is connected to the AUX IN jack, unplug the microphone or
guitar and turn
level is lowered.

You may be able to solve the problem by grounding the computer’s chassis, or the
ground pin of the computer’s AC power supply plug. Also check whether there might
be a device nearby that generates a strong magnetic field, such as a television or
microwave oven.

If the noise decreases when you lower the volume of your guitar, it may be that your
guitar’s pickups are being affected by noise from your computer or display.
Move your guitar as far away from your computer as possible.

Connect your guitar to the AUX IN jack.

Set

[AUX IN]

Use a connection cable that does not contain a resistor.

Use a connection cable that does not contain a resistor.

If you are inputting audio via the INPUT 1–8 or AUX IN jacks, decrease the input level.
(p. 42)

[SENS]

(input sensitivity) knob all the way to the left so that the input

(input impedance select) switch to the

“Hi-Z”

position.

53

Troubleshooting

Eliminating Clicks and Dropouts

If data cannot be recorded while recording audio, or if data cannot be fully processed during playback, SONAR will
automatically halt. This is called a
between SONAR and the VS-700.

There are a variety of possible reasons why clicks, pops, and dropouts might occur. To eliminate the cause of the
problem, follow the checkpoints listed below.

If problems occurs even with small projects

Increase the Mixing Latency

Extremely short Mixing Latency settings will place an excessive processing load on your computer.

dropout

. Clicks or pops may also occur if problems occur in communication

“About Mixing Latency”

(p. 61)

Try changing the Driver Mode

Since the VS-700 supports both

“Audio Driver Settings”

WDM/KS

(p. 24)

and

ASIO

, you can try changing the driver mode (p. 26).

Change the I/O Buffer Size

You may be able to solve the problem by changing the

Options”

disk. This value will not affect the Mixing Latency. The default setting is 256, but you can try changing this to 512 if
audio-related problems occur.

dialog box. The

I/O Buffer Size

specifies the size of the buffer used when reading from, or writing to the

“I/O Buffer Size”

Install the correct device driver

Even for your non-audio devices, make sure that the correct device drivers for your computer system are installed
and that your computer is running correctly. You should pay particular attention to this if you’ve modified your
computer or added peripheral devices, or if you’re using a computer that you assembled yourself.

Lower the screen resolution

Some computers have graphics functionality that places a heavy load on the CPU. You may be able to lighten this
load by lowering the screen resolution.

Uninstall the drivers of audio interfaces you’re not using

Some audio interfaces not intended for use in music production may cause problems with other audio interfaces (the
VS-700). If SONAR does not perform as well as you expect, try using the
audio functionality of your computer, or physically remove it and then uninstall the device.

in the

“Advanced”

Device Manager

tab of the

to

disable

“Audio

the standard

Disable other hardware devices

Other hardware devices may interfere with the performance of your audio device. We recommend that you disable
any unnecessary hardware devices, such as network adapters and internal sound cards.

54

If problems occur more frequently with large (heavy) projects

Increase the Mixing Latency

Extremely short Mixing Latency settings may place an excessive load on your computer.

Troubleshooting

“About Mixing Latency”

(p. 61)

Use freezing or bouncing to reduce the load on your computer

If the size of the project exceeds the processing capability of your computer, you can reduce the processing load by
freezing synthesizers or bouncing audio tracks.

Update the driver of your audio device

In most cases, newer driver versions of the audio interface will have fewer problems and improved performance.

Close other programs

If other programs are running, they will reduce the CPU resources and memory that are available to SONAR. It is best
to close all programs that are not needed for your work.

Change the VS-700 driver’s buffer size

In some cases, reducing the VS-700 driver’s buffer size may allow stable operation even with a shorter Mixing
Latency.

1.

Before you change the driver settings, you must close all programs that are using the VS-700. This
is not necessary if you’re merely viewing the settings.

Open the “Control Panel” and click “VS-700.”

2.

* If you don’t see the above icon, click

The

“VS-700 Driver settings”

“Switch to classic view.”

dialog box will appear.

3.

Adjust the “Audio Buffer Size.”

To change the setting, make the desired setting and click [OK]. If you merely want to view the setting without
changing it, be sure to click [Cancel] after you’ve noted the setting.

* Execute SONAR’s

“Wave Profiler...”

if you’ve changed the buffer size (unless you’re using ASIO mode).

55

Appendix

VS-700 Driver settings

Changing or Viewing the Settings

Before you change the driver settings, you must close all programs that are using the VS-700. This

1.

is not necessary if you’re merely viewing the settings.

Open the “Control Panel” and click “VS-700.”

2.

* If you don’t see the above icon, click

The

“VS-700 Driver settings”

If you want to change the settings, change the settings and then click [OK]. If you merely want to

3.

view the settings, be sure to click [Cancel].

For details about each item, refer to

Controls in the Settings Dialog Box

* If you change the buffer size, you must restart the applications that are using the VS-700, or if your application has an

audio device test function, you must execute that test function. Some applications may also have a buffer size
adjustment as part of their own audio settings.

dialog box will appear.

“Controls in the Settings Dialog Box”

“Switch to classic view.”

(p. 56).

“Audio Buffer Size” option

Normally, you should leave the buffer size setting at the fifth position from the left.

“Use Smaller ASIO Buffer Size” check box

By selecting this check box you can minimize the buffer size when using an ASIO-compatible application.

If you hear clicks or pops in the sound when this check box is selected,

* Adjust the

“Audio buffer size”

setting with this

“Use ASIO Direct Monitor” check box

Select this check box if you want to use ASIO Direct Monitor functionality in your ASIO-compatible application.

“Light Load” check box

Normally, you should leave this

* If you’ve made a change to the settings, you must disconnect the USB cable from the VS-700 and then reconnect it in

order for the new settings to take effect.

“check box cleared.”

Driver information

This shows the version of the currently installed driver.

56

“clear the check box.”

“check box cleared.”

Uninstalling VS-700 Driver

Windows Vista Users

Start up Windows with all USB cables disconnected (except those for a USB keyboard and/or USB

1.

mouse, if used).

Close all applications before performing the uninstallation.

2.

Open “Control Panel” and click “Uninstall a program.”

3.

* If you’re using the Classic View, double-click the

In the list, choose VS-700 Driver, and click “Uninstall/Change.”

4.

5.

If a dialog box regarding User Account Control appears, click [Continue].

* If you are asked to enter the password for an administrative account, log on to Windows as a user whose account type

is Administrator, and then perform the uninstallation.

6.

The display will indicate “The installed VS-700 Driver will be uninstalled.” and click the [OK].

“Programs and Features”

Appendix

icon.

When the message “Uninstallation was completed.” is displayed, click [OK] to restart Windows.

7.

Windows XP Users

Start up Windows with all USB cables disconnected (except those for a USB keyboard and/or USB

1.

mouse, if used).

Close all applications before performing the uninstallation.

2.

Open “Control Panel” and click “Add or Remove Programs.”

3.

4.

In the list, choose VS-700 Driver, and click “Change/Remove.”

The display will indicate “The installed VS-700 Driver will be uninstalled.” and click the [OK].

5.

* If any other message appears, follow the directions of the message.

When the message “Uninstallation was completed.” is displayed, click [OK] to restart Windows.

6.

57

Appendix

Configuring VS-700 MIDI Ports

In order for SONAR 8 to communicate with the VS-700C console and Fantom VS Editor, you must enable and assign
the VS-700 MIDI ports in SONAR.

To Enable VS-700 MIDI Ports in SONAR

1.

On SONAR’s “Options” menu, click “MIDI Devices” to open the “MIDI Devices” dialog.

2.

In the “Inputs” and “Output lists”, select both “IO MIDI (VS-700)” and “FANTOM VS (VS-700).”

To Configure SONAR VS-700 Control Surface Plug-in

1.

On SONAR’s “Options” menu, click “Controllers/Surfaces” to open the “Controllers/Surfaces”
dialog.

Click the [Add Controller/Surface] button

2.

3.

In the “Controller/Surface” box, select “VS-700.”

4.

Assign both “Input Port” and “Output Port” to “CONSOLE (VS-700).”

Click [OK] to close the “Controller/Surface Settings” dialog.

5.

To Configure Fantom VS Editor

1.

In Fantom VS Editor, click the [SETUP] menu button
open the “Set Up MIDI Devices” dialog.

For information on how to insert the Fantom VS Editor VSTi synth, refer to the SONAR VS-700 Owner’s Manual.

2.

In the “Fantom VS Editor Input/Output” lists, choose “Fantom VS” and click [OK].

to open the “Controller/Surface Settings” dialog.

and select “Set Up MIDI Devices” to

58

Giving Priority to Background Service (Windows XP)

On Windows XP, if you omit making this setting, you may experience sound dropout. By making this setting you may
be able to solve such problems. Be sure to make this setting before you begin using the VS-700.

1.

Open the “Control Panel,” and double-click “System.”

* If you don’t see the above icon, click

Click the “Advanced” tab, click [Settings] located in the Performance area, and click the

2.

“Advanced” tab.

3.

Choose “Background services,” and click [OK].

Click [OK] to close “System Properties.”

4.

“Performance and Maintenance,”

and then click

Appendix

“System.”

59

Appendix

About Sampling Rates

* SONAR does not allow you to change the sampling rate of a project that contains audio data.

The VS-700 allows you to choose from the following sampling rates: 44,100 Hz, 48,000 Hz, 88,200 Hz, 96,000 Hz, and
192,000 Hz.

Selecting a higher sampling rate will allow you to handle audio at a higher quality, but will require greater
performance from your CPU, memory, and hard disk. If you are unsure of your computer’s capabilities, we
recommend that you use 44,100 Hz or 48,000 Hz.

1.

Close SONAR.

Switch off the power on the VS-700R I/O unit and the VS-700C console.

2.

Use the VS-700R I/O unit’s [SAMPLE RATE] knob to change the sampling rate.

3.

Switch on power to the VS-700C console, then switch on the VS-700R I/O unit.

4.

Wait for the VS-700R I/O unit’s USB indicator to light.

Start up SONAR. Even if an “Audio Driver Error” is displayed during startup, click [Use Anyway].

5.

An error message will not be displayed if you’re using ASIO.

6.

Execute the “Options | Audio” command to access the “Audio Options” dialog box.

7.

Open the “General” tab, and specify the same “Sampling Rate” as you selected on the VS-700R I/O
unit.

Click [OK] to close the dialog box.

8.

If you are asked to restart SONAR, proceed as directed by the screen. We recommend that if you’ve changed the
Sampling Rate, you also execute

9.

Restart SONAR.

The changed sampling rate will take effect.

The sampling rate setting will also be reflected in new project files that you subsequently create.

* The number of channels that can be used will depend on the sampling rate.

Input 1–8
Digital 1 In 2 2
Digital 2 In 8 4
AUX 1 1
Total input channels 19 15
Main Out 2 2
Sub Out 2 2
Output 1–10 10 10
Digital 1 Out 2 2
Digital 2 Out 8 4
Total output channels 24 20

“Wave Profiler...”

44.1/48 kHz 88.2/96 kHz

8 8

located in the same dialog box.

60

About Mixing Latency

If the driver mode is set to ASIO, you won’t be able to adjust the Mixing Latency from SONAR. Adjust the

“Audio Buffer Size”

The Mixing Latency setting is closely related to how SONAR can take full advantage of your computer’s performance.

Increasing

the mixing latency will lengthen the time (latency) from when SONAR begins processing the audio until you actually
hear the sound. Increasing the latency will adversely affect your MIDI keyboard playing.

The most suitable Mixing Latency setting will depend on the performance of your computer and on various settings,
such as the sampling rate you’re using. If you experience the following problems with the default settings, try
adjusting the mixing latency.

the mixing latency will allow more audio processing to be performed within SONAR. However, increasing

Notes are delayed when you play a software synthesizer from a MIDI keyboard

Lower settings for Mixing Latency will shorten the delay (latency) from when you play a key until you hear the sound
from the software synthesizer.

However, shortening the latency may cause interruptions or dropouts in the sound; if this occurs, you won’t be able
to shorten the latency any further.

Interruptions or dropouts occur during playback in SONAR

You may be able to reduce interruptions or dropouts by increasing the Mixing Latency.

from the

[ASIO Panel]

.

Appendix

Procedure for setting the Mixing Latency

Execute the “Options | Audio” command to access the “Audio Options” dialog box. Open the

1.

“General” tab.

Click the [Wave Profiler...] button. If you see an indication that the operation ended successfully,

2.

the setting is OK. If the screen indicates “Audio Driver Error,” there may be a problem with the
setting; check once again from step 1. on p. 24.

3.

In the “Mixing Latency” area, use the “Buffer Size” slider to change the latency.

The size of the specified Mixing Latency is shown in the latency field located below the slider. The size of the Mixing
Latency is determined by two factors:

“Buffer Size.”
in Playback Queue”

4.

Click [OK] to close the dialog box.

If the screen indicates
on p. 24.

5.

Play back the project in SONAR, and listen to the playback. If necessary, return to step 1. and

If you’re trying to eliminate interruptions in the sound, you may be successful by increasing

to a value of 3–5.

“Audio Driver Error”

adjust the latency again.

* If the driver mode is ASIO, adjust the

“Buffers in Playback Queue”

“Audio Buffer Size”

and

“Buffer Size.”

, there may be a problem with the setting; check once again from step 1.

in the

[ASIO Panel]

Normally, you’ll adjust the

“Buffers

.

61

Appendix

Multi-user Use

In order to install SONAR, you must log on as a user who has administrative privileges.

Once installed, SONAR can be used by any user (in Windows Vista) or a limited user (in Windows XP), as well as by a
user who has administrative privileges.

Uninstalling SONAR and Other Components

If you want to uninstall a component of SONAR or Rapture, use the following procedure to uninstall that component.

1.

Log on as a user who has administrative privileges.

2.

Click the Windows “Start” button, and then click “Control Panel.”

3.

Click “Programs and Features” (in Windows XP, “Add or Remove Programs”).

4.

In the list of programs, click the component that you want to uninstall.

* Choose from “SONAR 8 Producer Edition,” “Rapture 1.1,” “VS-700,” etc.

5.

Click “Uninstall” (in Windows XP, “Remove”) to uninstall SONAR.

* If a user account control dialog box appears, click Continue.

62

6.

After uninstalling SONAR, restart Windows.

*5100002245 -01 *