Roland 04672434, VB-99 User Manual

201a

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (p. 2–3), and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (p. 4–5). These sections provide important information concerning the proper operation of the unit. Additionally, in order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp of every feature provided by your new unit, Owner’s manual should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.

Owner’s Manual

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

202

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

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

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

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

* Material damage refers to damage or

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

002c

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

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

003

• Do not attempt to repair the unit, or replace parts within it (except when this manual provides specific instructions directing you to do so). Refer all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.

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004

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

• Subject to temperature extremes (e.g., direct

sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating duct, on top of heat-generating equipment); or are

• Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors);

or are

• Exposed to steam or smoke; or are

• Subject to salt exposure; or are

• Humid; or are

• Exposed to rain; or are

• Dusty or sandy; or are

• Subject to high levels of vibration and shakiness.

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005

• This unit should be used only with a rack-mount adaptor (RAD-99) or stand (PDS-10) that is recommended by Roland. (p. 93)

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006

• When using the unit with a stand (PDS-10) recommended by Roland, the stand must be carefully placed so it is level and sure to remain stable. If not using a stand, you still need to make sure that any location you choose for placing the unit provides a level surface that will properly support the unit, and keep it from wobbling.

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

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

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

008c

• Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with the unit. Also, make sure the line voltage at the installation matches the input voltage specified on the AC adaptor’s body. Other AC adaptors may use a different polarity, or be designed for a different voltage, so their use could result in damage, malfunction, or electric shock.

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

008d

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

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

008e

• Use only the attached power-supply cord. Also, the supplied power cord must not be used with any other device.

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

009

• Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord, nor place heavy objects on it. Doing so can damage the cord, producing severed elements and short circuits. Damaged cords are fire and shock hazards!

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010

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

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011

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

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012b

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

• The AC adaptor, the power-supply cord, or the plug

has been damaged; or

• If smoke or unusual odor occurs

• Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been spilled onto

the unit; or

• The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise has

become wet); or

• The unit does not appear to operate normally or

exhibits a marked change in performance.

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013

• In households with small children, an adult should provide supervision until the child is capable of following all the rules essential for the safe operation of the unit.

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

014

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

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015

• Do not force the unit’s power-supply cord to share an outlet with an unreasonable number of other devices. Be especially careful when using extension cords—the total power used by all devices you have connected to the extension cord’s outlet must never exceed the power rating (watts/amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive loads can cause the insulation on the cord to heat up and eventually melt through.

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016

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

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023

• DO NOT play a CD-ROM disc on a conventional audio CD player. The resulting sound may be of a level that could cause permanent hearing loss. Damage to speakers or other system components may result.

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101b

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

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101c

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

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102c

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

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101f

• Please be sure to read and adhere to the cautionary notices contained in the instructions that came with this product. Please note that, depending on the manner in which performances are carried out, you may encounter situations where the unit falls off the stand or the stand topples over, even though you have followed all of the instructions and advice contained within the product’s manual. For this reason, you should always perform a safety check each time you use the stand.

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103b

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

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

104

• Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entangled. Also, all cords and cables should be placed so they are out of the reach of children.

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106

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

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107c

• Never handle the AC adaptor or its plugs with wet hands when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.

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108d: Selection

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

• Check to make sure the screws or the attached knob

bolts securing the unit to the stand have not become loose. Fasten them again securely whenever you notice any loosening.

• Disconnect the power cord.

• Disconnect all cords coming from external devices.

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109b

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

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110b

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

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118c

• Keep any screws you may remove and the included knob bolts in a safe place out of children’s reach, so there is no chance of them being swallowed accidentally ( p. 93, p. 94).

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IMPORTANT NOTES

Power Supply

301

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

302

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

307

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

Placement

351

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

352a

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

352b

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

354a

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

355b

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

360

• Depending on the material and temperature of the surface on which you place the unit, its rubber feet may discolor or mar the surface. You can place a piece of felt or cloth under the rubber feet to prevent this from happening. If you do so, please make sure that the unit will not slip or move accidentally.

Maintenance

401a

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

402

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

Repairs and Data

452

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

Additional Precautions

551

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

552

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

553

• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unit’s buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks and connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.

554

• Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.

556

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

558a

• To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the unit’s volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about those around you (especially when it is late at night).

559a

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

IMPORTANT NOTES

561

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

562

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

563

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

566b

• The sensitivity of the D Beam controller will change depending on the amount of light in the vicinity of the unit. If it does not function as you expect, adjust the sensitivity as appropriate for the brightness of your location.

801

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

Printing Conventions and icons in This Manual

Text or numerals

enclosed in square

brackets [ ]

(p.**)

Indicate buttons.

[WRITE]

Indicates information that you

should be aware of when

using the VB-99.

Indicates supplementary

information about an

operation.

Indicates information about a

convenient operation.

Indicates a reference page.

WRITE button

Contents

Main Features ................................................................................................11

Names of Things and What They Do ...........................................................12

Top Panel................................................................................................................................... 12

Rear Panel ................................................................................................................................. 14

Signal Flow................................................................................................................................ 15

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds.......................................................................16

Installing the Divided Pickup...................................................................................................16

Before Connecting.................................................................................................................... 16

Making the Connections ..........................................................................................................17

Turning On the Power .............................................................................................................. 19

About the Play Screen.................................................................................................................................... 20

About the Information in the Display (Basic Operation) ......................................................................... 20

Adjusting the Volume.................................................................................................................................... 20

Setting the Device (Amp) Connected to MAIN OUT (Output Select).................................................... 21

Inputting the Divided Pickup Settings (GK Settings) ............................................................ 21

Tuning the Bass (TUNER) ........................................................................................................ 23

Switching Tones (Patch) .......................................................................................................... 24

About the Patch Numbers............................................................................................................................. 24

Switching with the PATCH/VALUE Dial.................................................................................................. 25

Turning Off the Power .............................................................................................................. 25

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds ..........................................................................26

Setting the COSM BASS Tone................................................................................................. 26

One-touch Output of the Bass Direct Sound (BASS DIRECT) ............................................. 27

Applying the COSM Amps and Effects to Normal Pickup Sound ........................................ 27

Setting the COSM AMP Tone................................................................................................... 27

Setting the Effects .................................................................................................................... 28

POLY FX (Poly Effect).................................................................................................................................... 28

FX (Effects)....................................................................................................................................................... 28

Rearranging the Effect and Amp Connection Sequence (CHAIN) ....................................... 29

Specifying the tempo and key of the song to be played....................................................... 29

Setting the Tempo........................................................................................................................................... 29

Setting the Key ................................................................................................................................................ 30

Mixing the Normal Pickup Sound with the GK Input............................................................. 30

Setting the Volume Balance .......................................................................................................................... 30

Setting the Connection Locations for COSM Bass/Normal Pickup Sound........................................... 31

Mixing Channels A and B Together (MIXER) ......................................................................... 31

Setting the Volume and Panning for Each Channel.................................................................................. 31

Setting the Mix Balance.................................................................................................................................. 32

Setting the Delay and Reverb (DELAY/REVERB) .................................................................................... 32

Using Playing Dynamics to Control the Mix Between the Two Channels (DYNAMIC)..................... 32

Setting the Overall Patch Volume Level (V-BASS LEVEL) ...................................................................... 33

Adjusting the Overall Patch Tone (TOTAL EQ) ........................................................................................ 33

Setting the Output Signal and Level (OUTPUT) ....................................................................................... 33

Naming a Patch (PATCH NAME) ............................................................................................. 34

Saving a Patch (WRITE) ........................................................................................................... 34

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)..............................................35

Inputting the Divided Pickup Settings .................................................................................... 35

Selecting the Settings...................................................................................................................................... 35

Naming GK Settings (GK NAME) ............................................................................................................... 35

Selecting the Divided Pickup Type (GK PU TYPE)................................................................................... 36

Contents

Inputting the Bass’s Scale (BASS SCALE)................................................................................................... 36

Selecting the Position of the Divided Pickup (GK PU POS) .................................................................... 36

Matching the Divided Pickup and Normal Pickup Phase (GK PU PHASE)......................................... 37

Setting the Direction for the Installed Divided Pickup (GK PU DIRECTION)..................................... 37

Setting the DOWN/S1, UP/S2 Switch Arrangement (S1, S2 POS)......................................................... 37

Setting the Gap Between the Pickup and the Bridge (PICKUP↔BRIDGE)........................................... 38

Adjusting the Sensitivity for Each String (SENS) ...................................................................................... 38

Setting Whether or Not the Divided Pickup Is Used (GK CONNCT).................................................... 39

Using Different Bass Settings in Each Patch (SET MODE)....................................................................... 39

Determining the Function of the GK Volume Control and DOWN/S1, UP/S2 Switches (GK FUNC) .....39

Adjusting the Overall Tone According to the Environment (GLOBAL/OUTPUT SELECT)........ 40

Selecting the Settings...................................................................................................................................... 40

Naming the Settings....................................................................................................................................... 40

Setting the Types of Connected Devices (OUTPUT SELECT) ................................................................. 40

Adjusting the Overall Tone (GLOBAL EQ)................................................................................................ 41

Controlling the Overall Effect of the Noise Suppressor (Total NS) ........................................................ 41

Controlling the Overall Reverb Level (Total REVERB) ............................................................................ 42

Setting the Sounds Output from SUB OUT (SUB OUT LEVEL) ............................................................. 42

Setting the GK VOLUME Control and Switch and the Pedal Function

(SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN) ................................................................................................. 42

Having Values from an External Pedal, GK VOLUME Control, or Other Controller Carried

Over When Patches are Called Up (ASSIGN HOLD).............................................................. 43

Making System-wide Settings for the Features Controlled by the Function Knobs

(SYSTEM DIRECT EDIT) ........................................................................................................... 43

Limiting the Patches That Can Be Switched (PATCH EXTENT)........................................... 44

Adjusting the Screen’s Contrast ............................................................................................. 44

Setting the Output Signal and Level (SYSTEM OUTPUT) ..................................................... 45

Chapter 4 Using the VB-99 in Combination with an FC-300......................46

Connecting with the RRC2 IN Connector ............................................................................... 46

Settings Related to the FC-300................................................................................................ 46

Settings for Control of the FC-300................................................................................................................ 46

Setting the Operation When Patches Are Switched .................................................................................. 47

Activating the VB-99’s Tuner from the FC-300 (QUICK TUNER) .......................................... 47

Setting the FC-300 Amp Control ............................................................................................. 48

Chapter 5 Using MIDI ....................................................................................49

About MIDI................................................................................................................................. 49

What You Can Do Using MIDI..................................................................................................................... 49

Main Types of MIDI Messages Handled by the VB-99............................................................................. 50

About the MIDI Implementation ................................................................................................................. 51

Exchanging MIDI Messages.......................................................................................................................... 51

About MIDI Channels.................................................................................................................................... 51

Bank Select and Program Change................................................................................................................ 52

Setting the MIDI-Related Functions ........................................................................................ 52

Syncing to the MIDI Clock from an External Device.............................................................. 58

Playing an External Synthesizer Sound Module (BASS TO MIDI)........................................ 58

Setting the BASS TO MIDI Function (System Parameters) ...................................................................... 59

Setting the BASS TO MIDI Function (Patch Parameters) ......................................................................... 61

Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected to a Computer Via USB................65

Before Using the USB Connection.......................................................................................... 65

Switching the Driver Mode........................................................................................................................... 66

Setting the USB Functions ...................................................................................................... 66

Setting the Digital Audio Signal Input and Output .................................................................................. 66

Setting the Direct Monitor............................................................................................................................. 67

Contents

Recording the VB-99’s Output with a Computer ................................................................... 68

Using the VB-99 to Add Effects to Audio Playback from a Computer................................. 69

Chapter 7 Other Functions ...........................................................................70

Changing the Tone in Real Time with the D Beam and Ribbon Controllers ....................... 70

Adjusting the D Beam (CALIBRATION) .................................................................................................... 70

Disabling the D Beam (DISABLE)................................................................................................................ 71

Controlling Sounds by Hand Motion or the Bass Neck (D Beam Controller)....................................... 71

Adjusting the Ribbon Controller (CALIBRATION) .................................................................................. 72

Controlling the Sounds with the Movement of Your Fingertip (Ribbon Controller)........................... 73

Holding Sounds for Extended Periods (FREEZE) ..................................................................................... 73

Changing the Pitch as with a Tremolo Arm (T-ARM) .............................................................................. 74

Adding Nuance to the Sound (FILTER)...................................................................................................... 75

Changing the Sounds with the Function Knobs as You Play (DIRECT EDIT) .................... 76

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

Activating the Virtual Expression Pedal at the Start of Operations (Internal Pedal System) ............. 81

One Touch Call Up of Favorite Patches (DIRECT PATCH) ................................................... 81

Setting DIRECT PATCH................................................................................................................................ 81

Managing the Patches.............................................................................................................. 82

Saving and Copying Patches (PATCH WRITE)......................................................................................... 82

Exchanging the Current Patch with a Different Patch (PATCH EXCHANGE).................................... 82

Initializing User Patches (PATCH INITIALIZE) ....................................................................................... 83

Copying Settings Between Channel A and Channel B (A/B COPY)...................................................... 83

Exchanging the Channel A and Channel B Settings (A/B EXCHANGE).............................................. 83

Partially Copying Parameters in a Different Patch (MODULE COPY).................................................. 84

Partially Initializing Patch Parameters (MODULE INITIALIZE) ........................................................... 84

Separating Patches into Groups (CATEGORY) ..................................................................... 85

Using CATEGORY to Call Up Patches........................................................................................................ 85

Assigning a Patch to a Category................................................................................................................... 85

Naming User Categories (CATEGORY NAME)........................................................................................ 86

Storing Your Preferred Settings Individually (FAVORITE SETTINGS) ................................ 86

What are Favorite Settings?........................................................................................................................... 86

Calling Up Favorite Settings ......................................................................................................................... 87

Changing Tone Settings................................................................................................................................. 87

Saving Changed Tones .................................................................................................................................. 88

Naming Favorite Settings (FAVORITE NAME) ........................................................................................89

Searching for Patches That Use the Same Favorite Settings..................................................................... 89

Controlling Video Images with Your Bass (V-LINK) .............................................................. 90

What is V-LINK?............................................................................................................................................. 90

Connecting the V-LINK Device.................................................................................................................... 90

Switching V-LINK On and Off ..................................................................................................................... 91

Setting V-LINK ............................................................................................................................................... 91

Using the VB-99 on a Stand..................................................................................................... 93

Using the VB-99 Mounted in a Rack ....................................................................................... 94

Restoring the VB-99 to its Original Factory Condition (FACTORY RESET)........................ 95

Chapter 8 Parameters Guide ........................................................................96

COSM BASS .............................................................................................................................. 96

E.BASS (Electric Bass) ..................................................................................................................... 98

AC BASS (Acoustic Bass) ................................................................................................................ 100

SYNTH (Synthesizer) ...................................................................................................................... 100

E.GTR (Electric Guitar) ................................................................................................................... 105

COSM BASS Common Parameters ............................................................................................... 105

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

POLY COMP (Poly Compressor) .................................................................................................. 108

POLY LIMITR (Poly Limiter) ......................................................................................................... 108

Contents

POLY DEFRET (Poly Defretter) ..................................................................................................... 109

POLY DIST (Poly Distortion) ......................................................................................................... 109

POLY EQ (Poly Equalizer) ............................................................................................................. 109

POLY OCTAVE (Poly Octave) ....................................................................................................... 110

POLY RING (Poly Ring Modulator) ............................................................................................. 110

POLY SG (Poly Slow Gear) ............................................................................................................ 110

STRING MODLNG (String Modeling) ......................................................................................... 110

FX (Effects).............................................................................................................................. 111

COMP (Compressor) ....................................................................................................................... 111

OD/DS (Overdrive/Distortion) .................................................................................................... 112

EQ (Equalizer) .................................................................................................................................. 112

DELAY ............................................................................................................................................... 113

Using the HOLD (Hold Delay)................................................................................................................... 115

CHORUS ........................................................................................................................................... 115

MOD1, MOD2 .................................................................................................................................. 116

Creating Harmonist Scales (Voice Interval) ............................................................................................. 121

NS (Noise Suppressor) .................................................................................................................... 127

FV (Foot Volume) ............................................................................................................................. 127

COSM AMP .............................................................................................................................. 128

Speaker Settings ............................................................................................................................... 129

MIXER ...................................................................................................................................... 131

MIXER ............................................................................................................................................... 131

DELAY/REVERB ............................................................................................................................. 133

DYNAMIC ........................................................................................................................................ 134

MASTER................................................................................................................................... 135

CONTROL ASSIGN ........................................................................................................................ 135

GK VOL (GK Volume)................................................................................................................................. 135

GK S1, S2 (DOWN/S1, UP/S2 Switch) ..................................................................................................... 135

PANEL CTL1/CTL2 (Control Button 1/2)............................................................................................... 136

D BEAM ......................................................................................................................................................... 136

RIBBON.......................................................................................................................................................... 138

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

CTL3, CTL4 (Control3, Control4)............................................................................................................... 139

FC-300 CONTROL........................................................................................................................................ 140

ASSIGN 1–16 ................................................................................................................................................. 140

DIRECT EDIT F1–F6 .................................................................................................................................... 141

NAME/KEY/BPM .......................................................................................................................... 142

V-BASS LEVEL ................................................................................................................................. 142

BASS TO MIDI ......................................................................................................................... 143

PATCH .............................................................................................................................................. 143

SYSTEM ............................................................................................................................................. 144

SYSTEM ................................................................................................................................... 145

LCD CONTRAST ............................................................................................................................. 145

DIRECT PATCH .............................................................................................................................. 145

GK SETTING .................................................................................................................................... 145

CTL (Control) ................................................................................................................................... 146

CONTROL ASSIGN ..................................................................................................................................... 146

Parameters That Can Be Assigned to Controllers.................................................................................... 147

CONTROL ..................................................................................................................................................... 148

FC-300 ................................................................................................................................................ 148

MIDI ................................................................................................................................................... 149

OUTPUT ............................................................................................................................................ 151

USB ..................................................................................................................................................... 152

BPM .................................................................................................................................................... 153

V-LINK .............................................................................................................................................. 153

V-LINK PATCH............................................................................................................................................ 153

V-LINK SYSTEM .......................................................................................................................................... 155

Contents

Checking the Package Contents

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

retailer from whom this product was purchased.

❏ VB-99

❏ AC adaptor (PSB-1U)

❏

CATEGORY NAME ........................................................................................................................ 156

D BEAM CALIB (D BEAM Calibration) ....................................................................................... 156

PATCH EXTENT ............................................................................................................................. 156

FACTORY RESET ............................................................................................................................ 156

GLOBAL................................................................................................................................... 157

TUNER ..................................................................................................................................... 158

Chapter 9 Appendices.................................................................................159

MIDI Implementation Chart .................................................................................................... 159

Specifications ......................................................................................................................... 163

VB-99 Software System Requirements................................................................................. 164

For Windows................................................................................................................................................. 164

For Mac OS .................................................................................................................................................... 164

Error Messages....................................................................................................................... 165

Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................................... 165

Problems with Sounds ................................................................................................................................. 165

Other Problems ............................................................................................................................................. 167

Index .............................................................................................................168

GK cable (5 m)

❏ USB cable

❏ RRC2 cable

❏ Knob bolt x 4

❏ VB-99 Software CD-ROM

❏ Owner’s Manual (this manual)

Main Features

Ultimate bass modeling system provides unlimited possibilities in creating sounds

The VB-99 is the culmination of Roland’s COSM technology-based

bass modeling systems. Featuring advanced software supported by

the very latest custom DSP chips, the instrument also offers a large-

sized high-contrast LCD, top-quality AD/DA converters, balanced

XLR output connectors, digital output connectors, USB connector,

and other features that all add up to a truly pro-spec system.

About COSM (Composite Object Sound Modeling)

Composite Object Sound Modeling—or “COSM” for short—is

BOSS/Roland’s innovative and powerful technology that’s

used to digitally recreate the sound of classic musical

instruments and effects. COSM analyzes the many factors that

make up the original sound—including its electrical and

physical characteristics—and creates a digital model that

accurately reproduces the original.

Two complete sound creation systems

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

Connecting a Roland FC-300 MIDI Foot Controller (optional) to the

VB-99 allows you to switch tones and carry out other tasks using the

FC-300’s multiple foot pedals for easy hands-free operation. These

units also feature an RRC2 connector, allowing you to connect the

VB-99 and FC-300 with a single cable. This RRC2 function enables

two-way communications between the devices, while further acting

as a power supply to the FC-300, thus reducing the number of cables

used to connect the devices.

Includes pitch/MIDI conversion function

The VB-99 can convert and output bass performance data as MIDI

information, allowing you to connect a synthesizer sound module or

similar device and use the setup as a bass synthesizer.

Features V-LINK function

This function enables you to use performance data and pedal

operations in controlling video.

The VB-99 features two separate bass and COSM amp systems. You

can use two different types of modeled basses simultaneously and

create different amp sounds to use with each bass. What’s more, the

VB-99 comes equipped with two effects systems featuring a huge

selection of BOSS effects, including COSM effects. This all enables

you to achieve the perfect processing for each individual bass.

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

The VB-99 now enables new and heretofore unimaginable forms of

musical expression, including new ways of using the bass’s neck and

your hands. Of course, you can still connect expression pedals and

control switches as well, just as with previous V-Bass systems.

Console style accommodates a variety of usage environments

The VB-99 can be set up in a number of different ways to suit the

needs of the user—as a desktop unit for recording or when using

computer input, attached to its stand (optional) and set up right by

the performer, or placed in a rack with the (optional) rack mount

adaptor.

V-LINK

V-LINK is a function that allows music and images to be

performed together. By using MIDI to connect two or more V-

LINK compatible devices, you can easily enjoy a wide range of

visual effects that are linked to the expressive elements of a

music performance.

Names of Things and What They Do

8 9

10 11 12

13 14

20 21 22

23 24

1 2

Top Panel

fig.00-020

D BEAM

Switches the D Beam on and off. You can add a variety of

effects to your sounds by moving your hand or the bass neck

within the range of the beam. (p. 71)

• PITCH Button

In addition to changing the pitch of the bass, this can be

used for the Freeze function, which continuously holds

the bass’s tone. (p. 73)

• FILTER Button

This changes the bass’s tone. (p. 75)

• ASSIGNABLE Button

Use this to assign different parameters and functions to

the D Beam and change the tone in real time. (p. 77)

LCD

Various information regarding the VB-99 is indicated here.

PATCH/VALUE Dial

Used to switch patches and change settings values.

CATEGORY Button

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

FUNCTION Knob F1–F6

Changes the value of the setting for the parameter indicated in

the LCD.

FUNCTION Buttons F1–F6

Used to select the parameters indicated in the LCD.

BASS DIRECT Button

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

COSM BASS Buttons

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

POLY FX (Poly Effects) Buttons

These set the poly effects. (p. 28)

10.

FX (Effects) Buttons

These set the effects. (p. 28)

11.

COSM AMP Buttons

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

12.

MIXER Buttons

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

13.

DELAY/REVERB Button

Used to make settings for the mixer section’s delay and

reverb. (p. 32)

14.

DYNAMIC Button

Used for setting the dynamics. (p. 32)

15.

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

that button is switched on.

* The corresponding DIRECT PATCH button (1–5) lights when

a Direct Patch (1–5) is selected.

About the Illumination of Buttons

BALANCE Knob

Sets the mix balance. (p. 32)

16.

CHAIN Button

Used to make settings for the effect and COSM bass/COSM

amp connection sequence. (p. 31)

17.

CONTROL ASSIGN Button

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

18.

NAME/KEY/BPM Button

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

29) for songs to be played.

19.

V-BASS LEVEL Knob

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

20.

V-LINK Button

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

21.

DIRECT PATCH Buttons

Use these to directly call up the patches you have assigned to

them. (p. 81)

Names of Things and What They Do

30.

RIBBON CONTROLLER

This allows you to change the tone by sliding your finger

along the ribbon.

You can switch a variety of effects on and off directly with the

three buttons. (p. 73)

• PITCH Button

Changes the bass’s pitch. (p. 74)

• FILTER Button

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

• ASSIGNABLE Button

Use this to assign different parameters and functions to

the ribbon controller and change the tone in real time. (p.

77)

31.

GK IN Connector

Connect the GK cable here.

32.

POWER Switch

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

33.

OUTPUT LEVEL Knob

This adjusts the volume level for the MAIN OUT jacks and

headphone jack.

22.

CONTROL Buttons

You can assign and control a variety of different functions

with these buttons. (p. 77)

23.

EXIT Button

Used to return previous screens and to undo operations.

24.

WRITE Button

Use for storing settings in patches and executing operations.

(p. 34) (p. 82)

25.

PAGE Buttons

This switches the screens displayed in the LCD.

26.

BASS TO MIDI Button

This sets the BASS TO MIDI function (the function that

converts what is played on the bass into MIDI signals). (p. 58)

27.

SYSTEM Button

Used for making settings related to the VB-99’s operating

environment. (p. 35)

28.

GLOBAL Button

This sets the GLOBAL function (which affects the tone of all

patches). (p. 40)

29.

TUNER Button

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

Names of Things and What They Do

Rear Panel

fig.00-030

7 8 9

10 11 12 13

Security Slot ( )

988

Connect a commercially available anti-theft security cable

here.

http://www.kensington.com/

BASS INPUT Jack

Use this jack when directly inputting a normal bass.

BASS OUTPUT Jack

This outputs sounds from normal basses connected to a GK-

3B and unaltered signals from the BASS INPUT jack.

SUB OUT Connectors L, R

These balanced output jacks use XLR type connectors.

* The SUB OUT L and R connectors are unaffected by the OUTPUT

LEVEL knob settings; output is constant at a fixed output level (+4

dBu).

GND LIFT Switch

You can disconnect the SUB OUT connectors’ No. 1 pin from

the VB-99’s ground.

Normally, this is set to GND. Switch to LIFT if a ground loop

or similar problem is causing the output of hum or noise.

MAIN OUT Jacks L/MONO, R

These are unbalanced phone jack outputs. Use these to

connect to amps, mixers, and similar equipment.

PHONES Jack

Connect headphones here.

10.

CTL3,4 (CONTROL 3,4) Jack

An optional footswitch (such as an FS-6) can be connected

here. (p. 17)

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

11.

USB Connector

Use a USB cable to connect a computer to this connector and

enable exchange of data between the VB-99 and the computer.

(p. 65)

12.

RRC2 IN Connector

Accepts connection of an FC-300 (optional).

This connector supplies power to the FC-300 and provides for

two-way communications with it. (p. 46)

* The RRC2 IN connector is for use exclusively with the FC-300. It

cannot be used with other devices.

13.

MIDI OUT, IN Connector

Connect an external MIDI device here to transmit and receive

MIDI messages to and from the device. (p. 52)

14.

DC IN (AC Adaptor) Jack

Connect the included AC adaptor here.

To prevent damaging the VB-99, please be sure not to use any

AC adaptor other than the one included with the VB-99.

15.

Cord Hook

Fasten the AC adaptor cord using this hook to prevent the

cord from being disconnected accidentally. (p. 18)

* Disconnecting the AC adaptor while the VB-99 is in use may result

in corruption of important data.

DIGITAL OUT Connector

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

EXP PEDAL (EXPRESSION PEDAL) Jack

Connect an optional expression pedal (such as a Roland EV-5)

here. (p. 17)

* The VB-99 is set at the factory so that the pedal is automatically

enabled to function as a foot volume.

Signal Flow

Digital Recorder

etc.

Computer

Audio Signal

Bass

GK-3B

Divided Pick up

Headphones

Bass Amp

Mixer

Bass Amp

BASS

OUT

PHONES

SUB OUT

DIGITAL OUT

BASS

CHAIN A

CHAIN B

USB

DIVIDED

POLYFX

D OUT

SUB OUT

MAIN OUT

DIRECT MON

MAIN OUT LEVEL

NORMAL

CONNCT

BASS A

POLY

BASS B

AMP A

AMP B

MAIN

SUB

DIGITAL

GLOBAL

SUB

GLOBAL

MAIN

OUTPUT

SELECT

SUB OUT LEVEL

D OUT LEVEL

USB OUTUSB IN

USB IN

LEVEL

USB OUT

LEVEL

MIXER

DELAY

A/B

BALANCE

LEVEL

PAN

DELAY

LEVEL

PAN

V-BASS

LEVEL

REVERB

SEND

DELAY

SEND

DELAY/REVERB

TOTAL

(OFF)

COSM BASS A

SUB OUT

NORMAL PU

COSM BASS B

MAIN OUT

MAIN & SUB

CH A

CH B

MIXER (DRY)

123

678

COSM BASS A

CH B

NORMAL PU

COSM BASS B

CH A

MIXER (DRY)

MAIN OUT

MIXER

SUB OUT

Audio OUT

Audio IN

COSM BASS A

CH B

NORMAL PU

COSM BASS B

CH A

MIXER (DRY)

MAIN OUT

SUB OUT

123

MAIN

OUT

OUTPUT

LEVEL

GLOBAL

SUBOUT

LEVEL

BASS

DIRECT

COSM BASS

BASS DIRECT

Names of Things and What They Do

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

Installing the Divided Pickup

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

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

Manual.

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

pickup will not function properly even when installed).

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

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

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

About the GK-3B’s GK Volume Control

With the VB-99, you can assign various different functions to the

GK-3B’s GK volume control. (p. 77)

You may not be able to control the VB-99’s volume level with the GK

volume control when another parameter is assigned to the GK

volume control.

About the GK-3B’s Select Switches

As the VB-99 allows you to set the balance between the COSM bass

and the normal bass volume in each individual patch, we

recommend that MIX be the basic function used for the select switch.

Also note that if a parameter other than volume is assigned as the

GK volume control function, the GK-3B’s select switch will stop

functioning normally.

Before Connecting

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

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

• Bass amp/speaker or headphones

Performing can be made even more convenient using the following

devices:

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

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

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

Making the Connections

Bass Amp

(for Normal Bass)

Stereo

Headphones

(Normal Bass)

Digital Recorder etc.

MIDI Foot Controller

FC-300

Mixer etc.

Footswitch

(BOSS FS-6 etc.)

EXP Pedal (EV-5 etc.)

Computer

RRC2 cable

MIDI Sequencer etc.

MIDI IN MIDI OUT

AC Adaptor PSB-1U

V-LINK Compatible Device (EDIROL P-10 etc.)

MIDI IN

Synthesizer (external sound module) etc.

To the Power Outlet

Top Panel

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

Chapter 1

Rear Panel

GK cable

Bass with GK-3B / GK-2B

Example of Connections When Using Effects Units

Example 1) Example 2)

MAIN

OUT

Bass Amp Effector VB-99Bass Amp Effector

VB-99

GK-IN

GK cable GK cable

MAIN

OUT

Bass with GK-3B / GK-2BBass with GK-3B / GK-2B

GK-IN

BASS INPUT

Effector

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

Indicator

AC Outlet

Power Cord

AC Adaptor

* The GK cable is a locking cable. When disconnecting the cable, do

not pull on it with undue force, but instead release the lock and

gently disconnect the cable. You can disconnect the cable simply and

easily by holding down the locking portion with your finger and

gently pulling on the plug.

Lock

921

* To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices,

always turn down the volume, and turn off the power on all devices

before making any connections.

932

* Place the AC adaptor so the side with the indicator (see illustration)

faces upwards and the side with textual information faces

downwards.

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

outlet.

924

* To prevent the inadvertent disruption of power to your unit (should

the plug be pulled out accidentally), and to avoid applying undue

stress to the AC adaptor jack, anchor the power cord using the cord

hook, as shown in the illustration.

fig.CordHook.e.eps

* Wiring diagrams for CTL3, 4 jack is shown below. Make connections

after first checking the wiring diagrams of other equipment you

intend to connect.

fig.XLR/TRSJack.eps

* You cannot use COSM BASS or POLY FX with signals input via BASS IN. The GT-10B’s internal FX, COSM AMP, MIXER, and

The cord of the supplied AC Adaptor

Cord Hook

=CTL3 =CTL4

To the Power Outlet

922

* This instrument is equipped with balanced type jack (XLR=SUB

OUT). Wiring diagrams for this jacks is shown below. Make

connections after first checking the wiring diagrams of other

equipment you intend to connect.

fig.XLR/TRSJack.eps

925

* Use only the specified expression pedal (Roland EV-5, BOSS FS-

500L/500H with a connection cable (stereo 1/4” phone – stereo 1/4”

phone); sold separately). By connecting any other expression pedals,

you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the unit.

927

* Depending on the circumstances of a particular setup, you

may experience a discomforting sensation, or perceive that

the surface feels gritty to the touch when you touch this

device, microphones connected to it, or the metal portions of

other objects, such as basses. This is due to an infinitesimal

electrical charge, which is absolutely harmless. However, if

you are concerned about this, connect the ground terminal

(see figure) with an external ground. When the unit is

grounded, a slight hum may occur, depending on the

particulars of your installation. If you are unsure of the

connection method, contact the nearest Roland Service

Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the

“Information” page.

Unsuitable places for connection

• Water pipes (may result in shock or electrocution)

• Gas pipes (may result in fire or explosion)

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

926a

* When connection cables with resistors are used, the volume level of

equipment connected to the BASS INPUT may be low. If this

happens, use connection cables that do not contain resistors.

* Never connect anything other than the FC-300’s RRC2 OUT

connector to the VB-99’s RRC2 IN connector. Connecting to a LAN

or other devices that use modular jacks of the same size and shape

(RJ45) may result in damage to the VB-99 and/or the connected

device.

* If using a commercially available ethernet cable as the RRC2

connecting cable, be sure that the cable meets the following

specifications:

• Category 5 (Cat5) or above

• Maximum length of 15 meters

• Cable designed for straight-through connections

* Crossover cables cannot be used.

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

* Carefully connect the RRC2 cable all the way in–until it is firmly

connected to the RRC2 IN connector.

* When outputting in mono, connect a cable only to the MAIN OUT

L/MONO jack.

other settings can be used fully in two channels.

* When connecting an expression pedal to the EXP PEDAL jack, set

the pedal’s minimum level knob to the MIN position.

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

set the MODE switch and POLARITY switch as shown below.

fig.01-010

BOSS FS-6

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

jack, set the POLARITY switch as shown below.

fig.01-020

BOSS FS-5U

* You can connect two FS-5Us using the special Roland PCS-31

connection cable (optional).

* When an FS-6 is connected to the CTL3,4 jack with an optional

connection cable (stereo 1/4” phone – stereo 1/4” phone), pedal

switch B operates according to the CONTROL 3 settings, and pedal

switch A operates according to the CONTROL 4 settings.

fig.01-030

To CTL3,4 jack To CTL3,4 jack To CTL3,4 jack

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

Turning On the Power

941

Once the connections have been completed (p. 17), turn on power to

your various devices in the order specified. By turning on devices in

the wrong order, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to

speakers and other devices.

942

* This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval (a

few seconds) after power up is required before the unit will operate

normally.

943

* Always make sure to have the volume level turned down before

switching on power. Even with the volume all the way down, you

may still hear some sound when the power is switched on, but this is

normal, and does not indicate a malfunction.

* Turning on devices in the wrong sequence may result in

malfunction and/or damage to speakers and other devices.

Switch on the POWER switch on the VB-99’s top panel.

The display changes as described below, and after several

seconds the VB-99 is ready for normal performance.

This screen is called the “Play screen.”

fig.01-060d

Chapter 1

PCS-31 cable

White Red White Red

BOSS FS-5U

(CTL3)

BOSS FS-5U

(CTL4)

• When using the VB-99 with an expression pedal connected to the EXP PEDAL jack, make the settings described on “EXP PEDAL (Expression Pedal)” (p. 139).

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

(CTL3) (CTL4)

(CTL4) (CTL3)

Unless special note is made otherwise, the operations

described in this manual are carried out with the Play screen

displayed.

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

time the power was last turned off is called up.

985

* The explanations in this manual include illustrations that depict

what should typically be shown by the display. Note, however, that

your unit may incorporate a newer, enhanced version of the system

(e.g., includes newer sounds), so what you actually see in the display

may not always match what appears in the manual.

Turn on the power to the bass amp or mixer.

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

devices.

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

About the Play Screen

The VB-99 has a variety of Play screen variations, each providing

different information about the current state of the VB-99.

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

PAGE [ ] [ ].

Screen 1:

The first nine characters of the patch name are displayed in large

type; also shown are icons for the basses and amps in both channels.

fig.01-060d

Screen 2:

All sixteen characters of the patch name are displayed.

About the Information in the Display (Basic Operation)

Some screens may contain parameters spanning multiple pages. The

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

Use PAGE [ ] [ ] to switch pages.

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

Pressing a FUNCTION button while SET** appears in

the lower part of the screen sets the corresponding

function to the indicated value of **.

Screen 3:

The effects used, as well as their connection sequence (CHAIN) in

both channels are indicated.

Screen 4:

The screen shows level meters for the GK IN strings Hi C–Low B,

normal pickup, MAIN OUT, and SUB OUT levels.

By assigning parameters to the F1–F6 knobs, as

described in

Knobs as You Play (DIRECT EDIT)”

use them to control values while in the Play screen.

Additionally, you can display a popup for the assigned

parameters and their values by pressing the [F1]–[F6]

buttons.

“Changing the Sounds with the Function

(p. 76), you can

Adjusting the Volume

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

fig.01-070

* The output level from the SUB OUT connector (XLR type) cannot

be adjusted with the OUTPUT LEVEL knob.

* You can adjust the volume level by assigning this function to the

expression pedal or GK-3B GK volume control. For details, see

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

Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)”

(p. 77).

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

5 6

7 9

10 11

Chapter 1

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

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

OUT jacks.

fig.01-071

Press [GLOBAL].

The Global screen is displayed.

fig.01-072d

Inputting the Divided Pickup Settings (GK Settings)

The VB-99’s sound characteristics vary greatly depending on how

the divided pickup is installed. To ensure consistent conditions for

optimal sound production, be sure to make the settings affecting the

divided pickup (the GK settings). With these settings appropriately

made, the VB-99 can then operate under optimal conditions.

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

“GK SETTING”

When using more than one bass with the VB-99, you can

save the settings for each bass separately.

The GK settings are extremely important to getting

good tones from the VB-99. Be sure to input the

settings correctly.

fig.01-100

(p. 145).

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

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

Value

AMP WITH TWEETER

AMP NO TWEETER

LINE/PHONES

Press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Explanation

Use this setting when connecting to a tweeter-equipped bass amp.

Use this setting when connecting to a bass amp that has no tweeter. The high-frequency range is adjusted.

Use this setting when using headphones or connecting directly to a PA system or multitrack recorder.

Press [SYSTEM].

The System screen is displayed

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

Press [F3] (GK).

The GK Settings screen is displayed.

fig.01-060d

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

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

6STR

4STR-24STR-1 4STR-3

5STR Lo2

5STR Lo1 5STR Hi25STR Hi1

For a 4-string bass:

For a 5-string bass:

For a 6-string bass:

string 1

string Hi C

string Low B

string 2 string 3 string 4

string 1

string Hi C

string Low B

string 2 string 3 string 4

string 1 string 2 string 3 string 4

string 1

string Hi C

string 2 string 3 string 4

Select the divided pickup type.

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

the bass you are using.

fig.01-060d

Select the position of the divided pickup.

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

in the bass you are using.

Settings

GK-3B

GK-2B Specifies the GK-2B.

PIEZO

PIEZO G

PIEZO R

If you’re not sure which piezo type parameter is appropriate, choose the

parameter for the piezo type that sounds the most natural as you play.

* Piezo pickups are a type of pickup that are installed at the bass’s

bridge and use piezoelectric elements to determine the string

vibrations.

* Selecting PIEZO, PIEZO G or PIEZO R for GK PU TYPE lets you

further adjust the sound quality of the low and high frequency

ranges. For detailed information, refer to

Pickup Type (GK PU TYPE)”

Set the scale length.

Use the F4 knob to set the scale length (the distance from the

bridge to the nut) of the bass you are using. Then, specify the

value within 710-940 mm, or select one of the 4 presets listed

below.

Explanation

Specifies the GK-3B.

This is suited to piezo pickups that have a flat response.

This is suited to piezo pickups made by Graph Tech Guitar Labs.

This is suited to piezo pickups made by RMC Pickup Co.

“Selecting the Divided

(p. 36).

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 4.

Input the gap between the pickup and the bridge.

Set the clearance from the divided pickup to the bridge’s

saddle.

Settings

SHORT

MEDIUM

LONG JB/PB

EXTRA LONG

Scale Length

760mm

812mm

864mm

914mm

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

type parameter.

string Hi C

string 1 string 2 string 3 string 4

string Low B

String

BridgePickup

10.

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 5.

fig.01-060d

11.

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

First play the Low B string with the maximum force to be used

during actual performance, and as you play the string, set the

sensitivity with the F1 knob until the meter registers at a point

just before it crosses beyond the maximum level.

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

manner.

* If the level meter registers in excess of the maximum level, it means

the level is set too high. Lower the sensitivity setting.

* Depending on the bass you are using, the level meter may move to

the maximum level even when the sensitivity is set to the minimum

setting. If this occurs, adjust the clearance separating the divided

pickup and the strings so the distance is slightly greater than

specified.

12.

Check the volume balance of the six strings.

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

of force; if any string sounds particularly loud, lower the

sensitivity setting for that string, and keep adjusting until the

differences in the strings’ volume levels are minimal.

13.

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

* Making these settings is necessary whenever you install the divided

pickup on a new or different bass and when the divided pickup height

is changed. Once the settings are completed properly, they are saved

when the power is turned off. Afterwards, you need not make the

settings each time you play the instrument.

For more information on other parameters in the GK

Settings, refer to

“GK SETTING”

(p. 145).

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

Tuning the Bass (TUNER)

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

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

accurate.

fig.01-190

Press [TUNER].

The tuner function is switched on.

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

TUNER

MULTI MODE

SINGLE MODE

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

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

• [F5] (PITCH: 435 Hz–445 Hz)

This sets the reference pitch.

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

* The COSM bass PITCH SHIFT, HARMO, and BEND settings

controlled by the KEY parameter and the HARMONIST effect refer

to this reference pitch.

Explanation

You can play and tune six strings simultaneously.

You can play one individual string to tune that string.

Chapter 1

What is the Reference Pitch?

This is the frequency at A4 (the note played with the A key at

the middle of the piano keyboard) played by the instrument

(e.g., piano) used as the reference for tuning for performances.

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

Patch Number

Patch Name

• [F6] (MUTE OFF, MUTE ON)

This setting determines whether sounds from the output

jacks are output or not while tuning is in progress.

Switching Tones (Patch)

TUNER

MUTE OFF

MUTE ON

Play a single note, open, on the string being

Explanation

Sounds are output during tuning.

Sounds are not output during tuning.

* With the factory settings, this is set to

MUTE ON.

tuned.

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

When you choose the MULTI MODE

fig.01-060d

When you choose the SINGLE MODE

fig.01-060d

What is a patch?

The VB-99 provides 400 memory locations where settings

determining the sound, including those for COSM basses,

COSM amps, and effects, as well as settings for a variety of

other parameters are stored.

Each one of these is called a patch.

Each time you switch a patch, you can instantly change to a

different tone.

About the Patch Numbers

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

shown below.

fig.01-060d

Keep checking the screen, tuning until the center indicator lights up.

Repeat Steps 3-5 to tune all the strings.

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

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

Patches are categorized into User patches and Preset patches.

User Patches

These include 200 preprogrammed patches. You can freely change

the tones and save the your changes.

Preset Patches

Included here are 200 preprogrammed patches. Although you can

make changes to these tones, you cannot save these changes in a

Preset Patch. If you want to save a changed tone, save it as a User

patch.

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

The message “NOW SHUTDOWN...” appears when

the power is switched off. The VB-99’s current

settings are saved to memory at this time. Do not

disconnect the AC adaptor until this message is no

longer displayed.

Chapter 1

Switching with the PATCH/ VALUE Dial

You can switch patches consecutively with the PATCH/VALUE

Dial.

Confirm that the Play screen is displayed.

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

several times until the Play screen appears.

Rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to switch the patches.

fig.01-190

Turn the dial to the right (clockwise) to switch to the next

patch number, or to the left (counterclockwise) to switch to the

previous patch number.

Turning Off the Power

Confirm the following before turning off the power.

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

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

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

fig.01-190

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

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

Setting the COSM BASS Tone

●

COSM Basses

You can use COSM modeling to create the tones of a variety of

different bass guitars. Available sounds include not just electric bass

and acoustic bass tones, but extend beyond to include the sounds of

synthesizers and electric guitars and even non-existent, imaginary

bass guitars. Since the created sounds are based on the signals sent

by the GK-3B for each individual string, the system allows you to

play these sounds while still retaining all the flavor created by the

unique playing techniques and picking nuances that the bass guitar

offers.

The VB-99 allows you to make settings for two different COSM bass

types at the same time, enabling you to instantly switch what

amounts to two actual bass guitars and create sounds in which two

bass guitars seem to be playing at the same time.

●

COSM Amps

Since this technology models the bass amp circuitry and speaker

characteristics, the modeled amps simulate exactly the behavior of

the actual amps, even in the way distortion is added and the way the

tone controls work.

You can configure preamps and speaker cabinets as you like—you

can even model the amp’s studio miking. The VB-99 produces two

independent COSM amp systems at the same time, which allows

you to process each of the two COSM basses through a different

amp.

Press [COSM BASS].

Press PAGE [ ] several times to display Page

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

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

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

Press PAGE [ ].

●

Poly Effects

These are original VB effects that can be applied independently to

each string. You can choose which of the two COSM basses the

effects are applied to.

●

Effects

The VB-99 is equipped with two BOSS GT-10B class multi-effects

systems. You can apply effects separately to each of the two COSM

basses.

●

Mixer

In addition to having full freedom in mixing the sounds from the

two COSM basses, you can also output the two bass guitars

separately to MAIN OUT and SUB OUT. The Dynamic function

further allows you to use the force of your playing attack to switch

between the two bass sounds or many other functions. Furthermore,

the mixer section also includes delay/reverb and an equalizer,

enabling you to adjust the overall tone of the patches.

* Each press of PAGE [ ] takes you to the next screen in which

parameter settings are made.

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

Adjust the parameters until you achieve the sound you want.

For detailed information about each of the parameters,

refer to

“COSM BASS”

(p. 96).

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

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

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

One-touch Output of the Bass Direct Sound (BASS DIRECT)

Setting BASS DIRECT to “on” enables you to output the direct bass

sound at a single touch.

It's possible to create sounds like bass direct sound plus synthesizer

bass sound by combining the direct bass sound with COSM bass,

effect, or COSM amp sound.

Press [BASS DIRECT] to switch this off (unlit) or on (lit).

You can store the BASS DIRECT setting in memory for each

individual patch.

Bass with

GK-3B

Normal

Bass

DIVIDED PU

NORMAL PU

MAIN

SUB

MAIN OUT

PHONES SUB OUT

Applying the COSM Amps

Setting the COSM AMP Tone

Press [COSM AMP].

Press PAGE [ ] several times to display Page

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

fig.01-060d

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

Press PAGE [ ].

fig.01-060d

Chapter 2

and Effects to Normal Pickup Sound

Setting the COSM BASS switch to “NORMAL PU” lets you apply

COSM amps or effects using the normal pickup sound for the bass

instead of the COSM bass.

OFF

DIVIDED PU

NORMAL PU

COSM BASS

To the FX, COSM AMP

* Each press of PAGE [ ] takes you to the next screen in which

parameter settings are made.

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

Adjust the parameters until you achieve the sound you want.

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

“COSM AMP”

If you want to save the edited settings,

(p. 128).

perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

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

Play screen.

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Setting the Effects

POLY FX (Poly Effect)

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

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

Press PAGE [ ] several times to display Page

fig.01-060d

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

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

FX (Effects)

Here’s how to make settings for the effects.

Press [FX].

fig.01-060d

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

* Each press of PAGE [ ] [ ] takes you to another effect screen in

which parameter settings are made.

All effects that are on can be alternately switched off

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

pressing [FX].

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

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

Press PAGE [ ].

fig.01-060d

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

next parameter.

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

Adjust the parameters until you achieve the desired sound.

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

“POLY FX (Poly Effect)”

(p. 108).

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

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

next parameter.

Adjust the parameters until you achieve the sound you want.

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

“FX (Effects)”

If you want to save the edited settings,

(p. 111).

perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

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

Play screen.

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

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

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Rearranging the Effect and Amp Connection Sequence (CHAIN)

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

connected.

Press [CHAIN].

The Chain screen is displayed.

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

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

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

The output level for the selected effect is indicated in the

upper right of the screen.

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

Specifying the tempo and key of the song to be played

Here’s how to specify the tempo and key of a song you’ll be playing.

Set these when you want to specify a delay time or rate that suits a

song’s tempo (specifying it in terms of the note length) and when

using the HARMONY function.

Setting the Tempo

Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

Press [F3] (BPM).

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

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

the corresponding effect parameter to BPM –BPM .

Chapter 2

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

* You can also switch effects, COSM basses, and COSM amps on and

off while setting the connection sequence. Pressing [F6] while the

effect, COSM bass, or COSM amp is selected switches the function’s

ON/OFF setting.

Press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

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

BPM stands for “beats per minute,” and represents the

number of quarter notes played in one minute.

If you want to use the MIDI SYNC function, the SYNC

CLOCK parameter must be set to AUTO (USB), AUTO

(MIDI), or AUTO (RRC2). For detailed information, refer

“Syncing to the MIDI Clock from an External

Device”

To use Tap Input

(p. 58).

Press [F5] (TAP) at least two times, at quarter note intervals of

the desired tempo. The tempo will be calculated

automatically, and set to the interval at which you pressed the

button.

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

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

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Setting the Key

Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

Press [F2] (KEY).

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

* The COSM bass PITCH SHIFT, HARMO, and BEND settings and

the HARMONIST effect operate according to the key you set here.

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

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

Mixing the Normal Pickup Sound with the GK Input

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

normal bass pickups at the same time.

Setting the Volume Balance

Press [COSM BASS].

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

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

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

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

F1 Knob

Adjusts the COSM bass’s volume level. When POLY FX is set

to ON, it adjusts the volume level of the signal after it has

passed through POLY FX.

F2 Knob

This adjusts the volume of the normal pickup.

When the COSM bass is connected in CHAIN at a point other

than the beginning of the effects chain, you can adjust the

volume of the sounds that have passed though effects from

the beginning of the chain up to the point where the bass is

connected.

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

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

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Setting the Connection Locations for COSM Bass/Normal Pickup Sound

Press [CHAIN].

Use [F2] ( SEL) and [F3] (SEL ) to select the arrow that indicates the connection location for the COSM bass or normal pickup sound.

Use [F4] ( MOVE) and [F5] (MOVE ) to move the connection location for the COSM bass or normal pickup sound.

Mixing Channels A and B Together (MIXER)

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

“Signal Flow”

Setting the Volume and Panning for Each Channel

Press [MIXER].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Make the settings for each channel on this page.

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

(p. 15).

Chapter 2

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

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

Play screen.

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

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

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

When mixing two channels, you can produce a more

realistic twin bass tone by setting a channel delay in one

of the channels, thus causing the two bass sounds to be

output at different times.

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

“MIXER”

(p. 131).

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Setting the Mix Balance

You can set the mix balance of Channel A and Channel B with the

BALANCE knob. Soon after the knob is turned, the balance value

pops up in the screen.

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

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

Setting the Delay and Reverb (DELAY/REVERB)

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

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

strongly the strings are picked.

Press [DYNAMIC].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

Select the Dynamic function type.

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 2.

This sets the mixer section’s delay and reverb.

Press [DELAY/REVERB].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

Set the parameters with [F1]–[F6] or with the F1–F6 knobs.

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

next parameter.

Adjust the parameters until you achieve the desired sound.

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

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

Set the parameters with the F1–F5 knobs.

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

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

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

“DYNAMIC”

(p. 134).

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

“DELAY/REVERB”

(p. 133).

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Setting the Overall Patch Volume Level (V-BASS LEVEL)

You can set the overall patch volume level with the V-BASS LEVEL

knob. Soon after the knob is turned, the V-Bass settings value pops

up in the screen.

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

fig.01-060d

Adjusting the Overall Patch Tone (TOTAL EQ)

You can make separate settings in each individual patch for the

overall tone after sounds have passed through the mixer.

Press [MIXER].

Setting the Output Signal and Level (OUTPUT)

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

jacks and connectors.

Press [MIXER].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 5.

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

For detailed information on the parameters that can be

set, refer to

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 6.

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

“OUTPUT”

(p. 132).

Chapter 2

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

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

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

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

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

For detailed information on all the parameters, refer to

“TOTAL EQ (Total Equalizer)”

(p. 131).

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

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

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

1. Press [SYSTEM].

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

3. Press [F1] (OUTPUT).

4. Set the OUTPUT MODE parameter to

SYSTEM with [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob.

The value in the MIXER screen is disregarded, and

instead the SYSTEM value < > is applied.

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Naming a Patch (PATCH NAME)

You can give names to the patches you create.

Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

Press [F1] (NAME).

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

Select the character with the PATCH/VALUE dial.

As you continue to rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial, the

character guide automatically switches from uppercase letters

to lowercase letters, numerals, and symbols.

You can use the following convenient operations by pressing

[F1]–[F6].

Saving a Patch (WRITE)

The settings made to change a sound are temporary; when you

switch to a different patch, the settings revert to the values in effect

before the changes were made.

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

procedure.

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

save it to a different patch number.

Press [WRITE].

The Write screen appears.

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

To save the patch, press [WRITE].

“NOW WRITING...” is displayed while the patch is being

saved, and then the Play screen returns to the display.

Function Button

[F1] (INSERT)

[F2] (DELETE)

[F3] (SPACE) Inserts a blank space at the cursor position.

[F4] (A0!)

[F5] (A<=>a)

[F6] (CATGRY)

Repeat Steps 3 and 4 to complete the patch

Description

Inserts a blank space at the cursor position.

Deletes the character and shifts the characters that follow to the left.

Switches between letters, numerals, and symbols.

Switches between uppercase and lowercase letters.

Sets the category for the current patch. Refer to

“Assigning a Patch to a Category”

(p. 85)

name.

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

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

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

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

* The parameters described in this section are saved without the Write

procedure being performed.

Naming GK Settings (GK NAME)

You can give names to each of the GK settings.

Inputting the Divided Pickup Settings

To ensure optimal conditions for producing sounds with the VB-99,

making the correct settings affecting the divided pickup (the GK

settings) is required.

After you have finished inputting the various settings, press [EXIT]

one or more times to return to the Play screen.

Selecting the Settings

The VB-99 can store ten separate sets of GK settings. If you are

playing more than one bass using the VB-99, you can store separate

settings for each one, allowing you to be ready in moments with the

necessary settings when the basses are switched.

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Press [F6] (NAME).

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

Function Button

[F1] (INSERT)

[F2] (DELETE)

[F3] (SPACE) Input a space at the cursor location.

[F4] (A0!)

[F5] (A<=>a)

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

Explanation

Insert a space at the cursor location.

Delete a character. The characters that follow get shifted to the left.

Switch between uppercase letters and lowercase letters.

Switch between uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and characters.

Chapter 3

Press [F4] (SELECT) or turn the F4 knob to select the GK setting (1–10).

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

* Pressing [EXIT] at this point and returning to the Play screen

enables the selected GK setting.

* When PATCH is selected for the SET MODE parameter, the GK

settings specified in each patch take priority. For detailed

information, refer to

Patch (SET MODE)”

“Using Different Bass Settings in Each

(p. 39).

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

6STR

4STR-24STR-1 4STR-3

5STR Lo2

5STR Lo1 5STR Hi25STR Hi1

For a 4-string bass:

For a 5-string bass:

For a 6-string bass:

string 1

string Hi C

string Low B

string 2 string 3 string 4

string 1

string Hi C

string Low B

string 2 string 3 string 4

string 1 string 2 string 3 string 4

string 1

string Hi C

string 2 string 3 string 4

Selecting the Divided Pickup Type (GK PU TYPE)

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 2.

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

Settings

GK-3B

GK-2B Specifies the GK-2B.

PIEZO

PIEZO G

PIEZO R

* If you’re not sure which piezo type parameter is appropriate, choose the

parameter for the piezo type that sounds the most natural as you play.

* Piezo pickups are a type of pickup that are installed at the bass’s

bridge and use piezo electric elements to determine the string

vibrations.

Explanation

Specifies the GK-3.B

This is suited to piezo pickups that have a flat response.

This is suited to piezo pickups made by Graph Tech Guitar Labs.

This is suited to piezo pickups made by RMC Pickup Co.

Inputting the Bass’s Scale (BASS SCALE)

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

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 2.

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

Settings

710–940mm, SHORT (760mm) MEDIUM (812mm) LONG JB/PB (864mm) EXTRA LONG (914mm)

Explanation

Specifies the scale of your bass.

Selecting the Position of the Divided Pickup (GK PU POS)

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 2.

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

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

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

Parameter/ Range

PIEZO TONE LOW

-10–+10

PIEZO TONE HIGH

-10–+10 Adjusts the high frequency range tone.

Explanation

Adjusts the low frequency range tone.

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Matching the Divided Pickup and Normal Pickup Phase (GK PU PHASE)

Certain peculiarities in the sound may appear when the COSM bass

and normal pickup sounds are mixed. If this occurs, adjust this

parameter and switch the COSM bass’s phase.

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 3.

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

Settings Explanation

NORMAL

REVRSE Invert the phase.

Leave the phase unchanged.

Setting the Direction for the Installed Divided Pickup (GK PU DIRECTION)

Setting the DOWN/S1, UP/S2 Switch Arrangement (S1, S2 POS)

On some basses with the divided pickup built in, the positions of the

DOWN/S1 and UP/S2 switches are reversed. Set this so that the

functions match.

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 3.

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

Settings

NORMAL

REVRSE

Explanation

The switches will not be reversed.

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

Chapter 3

* Make this setting if the divided pickup has been installed with the Hi

C string end and Low B string end reversed.

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 3.

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

Settings

NORMAL

REVRSE

NORMAL REVERSE

Explanation

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

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

string Hi C

string 1 string 2 string 3 string 4

string Low B

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Setting the Gap Between the Pickup and the Bridge (PICKUP↔BRIDGE)

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

each string.

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

type parameter.

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 4.

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

Settings

0.0–50.0 mm

Explanation

Specify the distance between the divided pickup and the center of each bridge saddle. The setting is disregarded when the GK PU TYPE is set to piezo type parameter.

Adjusting the Sensitivity for Each String (SENS)

Adjust the divided pickup sensitivity for each string.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 5.

Rotate the F1–F6 knobs to adjust the sensitivity.

Play each open string with the maximum force you’d use in an

actual performance, and set the sensitivity such that the meter

registers a level just before reaching the maximum level.

* If the large segments at the right end of the level meter appear, it

means the level is set too high. Lower the sensitivity setting.

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

* Depending on the bass you use, the level meter may move to the

maximum level even when the sensitivity is set to the minimum

setting. If this occurs, adjust the clearance separating the divided

pickup and the strings so the distance is slightly greater than

specified.

string Hi C

string 1 string 2 string 3 string 4

string Low B

String

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

Settings

0–100

BridgePickup

Explanation

Adjusts the divided pickup input sensitivity for each string.

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Setting Whether or Not the

Divided

Pickup Is Used (GK CONNCT)

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

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

Settings

AUTO

OFF

* You should ordinarily use AUTO (the default setting). In cases

where the auto-detect function does not operate correctly, (for example, when you are using a divided pickup other than the GK3B), pickup, use [F1] or the F1 dial to change the setting.

Explanation

The presence of a GK connection is detected automatically and the internal settings are switched accordingly.

Settings appropriate for a GK connection are always used.

Settings appropriate for a BASS INPUT connection are always used.

Determining the Function of the GK Volume Control and DOWN/ S1, UP/S2 Switches (GK FUNC)

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

UP/S2 switches.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Press [F2] (GK FUNC).

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

For detailed information on the parameters that can be

assigned, refer to

“GK S1, S2 (GK S1, S2 Switch)”

* When assigning functions to each patch for GK Volume, DOWN/S1

and UP/S2, set Control Assign to ASSIGNABLE (PATCH). With

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

* This is the same setting as that set with GK VOL or GK S1, S2 in

[SYSTEM] (CTL).

“GK VOL (GK Volume)”

(p. 145).

(p. 145) and

Chapter 3

Using Different Bass Settings in Each Patch (SET MODE)

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

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

patch.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

Settings

SYSTEM

PATCH

Explanation

The GK SETTING set here is used globally for the entire VB-99. This is the default factory setting.

The GK Settings can be specified individually for each patch. Use this setting when switching among multiple basses as you perform.

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Adjusting the Overall Tone According to the Environment (GLOBAL/OUTPUT SELECT)

The VB-99 includes a function for adjusting the overall tone produced

by the device. This is referred to as the Global function. You can use the

Global function to adjust the overall sound of the VB-99 to suit the

equipment being used or environment you are in without altering the

individual patches.

Selecting the Settings

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

After you have finished inputting the various settings, press [EXIT]

one or more times to return to the Play screen.

Press [GLOBAL].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

The Global screen appears.

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

Naming the Settings

You can assign up to ten user names, each containing up to eight

characters. For example, you could create names that suggest the

gear used in a certain setting or a place where you perform.

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

Press [F3] (NAME).

Set the name using PAGE [ ] [ ] and [F1]– [F5].

Function Button

[F1] (INSERT)

[F2] (DELETE)

[F3] (SPACE) Input a space at the cursor location.

[F4] (A0!)

[F5] (A<=>a)

Explanation

Insert a space at the cursor location.

Delete a character. The characters that follow get shifted to the left.

Switch between uppercase letters and lowercase letters.

Switch between uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and characters.

Setting the Types of Connected Devices (OUTPUT SELECT)

You can match the VB-99’s output response to that of the connected

device. Making this setting helps keep differences in sound qualities

respective to the connected device to a minimum.

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

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

Value

AMP WITH TWEETER

AMP NO TWEETER

LINE/PHONES

Explanation

Use this setting when connecting to a tweeter-equipped bass amp.

Use this setting when connecting to a bass amp that has no tweeter. The highfrequency range is adjusted.

Use this setting when using headphones or connecting directly to a PA system or multi-track recorder.

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Adjusting the Overall Tone (GLOBAL EQ)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parameter/ Range

MAIN EQ (Main Equalizer), SUB EQ (Sub Equalizer)

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

MAIN EQ SW (Main Equalizer Switch), SUB EQ SW (Sub Equalizer Switch)

OFF, ON

TOTAL GAIN

-12–+12dB

LOW GAIN

-12–+12dB

HIGH GAIN

-12–+12dB

LOW MID FREQ (Low Middle Frequency)

20Hz–10.0kHz

LOW MID Q (Low Middle Q)

0.5–16

LOW MID GAIN (Low Middle Gain)

-12–+12dB

HIGH MID FREQ (High Middle Frequency)

20Hz–10.0kHz

HIGH MID Q (High Middle Q)

0.5–16

HIGH MID GAIN (High Middle Gain)

-12–+12dB

Explanation

Turns the EQ effect on/off.

Adjusts the volume before the equalizer.

Adjusts the low frequency range tone.

Adjusts the high frequency range tone.

Specifies the center of the frequency range that will be adjusted by the LOW MID GAIN.

Adjusts the width of the area affected by the EQ centered at the LOW MID FREQ. Higher values will narrow the area.

Adjusts the low-middle frequency range tone.

Specifies the center of the frequency range that will be adjusted by the HIGH MID GAIN.

Adjusts the width of the area affected by the EQ centered at the HIGH MID FREQ. Higher values will narrow the area.

Adjusts the high-middle frequency range tone.

Controlling the Overall Effect of the Noise Suppressor (Total NS)

This controls the overall threshold value for the noise suppressor

settings in the individual patches. This is an effective tool when

basses are changed during performances and for making

adjustments in response to noise levels at the performance venue.

This is an overall setting and does not alter the individual patch

settings.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 6.

Adjust the level with the F1 knob.

This adjusts the noise suppressor threshold levels set in each

patch.

-20 dB – +20 dB

* This adjustment has no effect on patches in which the noise

suppressor is off.

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

Chapter 3

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Controlling the Overall Reverb Level (Total REVERB)

This controls the overall reverb level settings in the individual

patches. This is effective for adjusting to the acoustics of the

performance venue. This setting does not affect the individual patch

settings.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 6.

Adjust the level with the F2 knob.

This adjusts the reverb level set in each patch.

0–200%

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

off.

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

Setting the GK VOLUME Control and Switch and the Pedal Function (SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN)

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Press [F4] (CTL).

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Setting the Sounds Output from SUB OUT (SUB OUT LEVEL)

This setting selects which signals are output from the SUB OUT

jacks.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 6.

Adjust the setting with the F3 knob.

This adjusts the sub output level set in each patch.

0–200%

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

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

If you want to be able to assign the functions for the

controllers on an individual patch basis, set Control

Assign to ASSIGNABLE (PATCH). With Control Assign

set to ASSIGNABLE (PATCH), the unit operates in

accordance with the assignments set in each patch, as

described in

Control the Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)”

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

disregarded.

For information on assigned controllers, refer to

“Controller”

parameters, refer to

Assigned to Controllers”

“Using the Switches, Pedals, and MIDI to

(p. 77).

(p. 146) ; for more on assignable

“Parameters That Can Be

(p. 147).

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

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

This setting determines whether or not the current settings for each

controller (the expression pedals, the FC-300’s expression pedals,

control pedals or other controllers) are applied to the patch when

patches are switched.

* Assign Hold is not performed when the SW MODE parameter in

Control Assign Source is set to LATCH. (LATCH toggles between

the minimum and maximum value each time the switch is pressed.)

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Press [F4] (CTL).

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 2.

The Control screen appears.

Chapter 3

Press [F4] (CTL).

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 2.

The Control screen appears.

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

Settings

OFF

Explanation

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

Stored values (at the time of Patch Write) of controllers are used when patches are called up. (Current controller values ignored.)

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

If you want to be able to assign the functions for the

knobs on an individual patch basis, set DIRECT EDIT to

PATCH. With DIRECT EDIT set to PATCH, the unit

operates in accordance with the assignments set in each

patch, as described in

Function Knobs as You Play (DIRECT EDIT)”

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

Use the [F1]–[F6] or F1–F6 knobs to select the parameters you want to assign to the knob.

You can quickly locate and select the desired parameter

by first narrowing down the parameter type with F1

(F4), then using F2 (F5) and then F3 (F6) to reach the

right parameter.

“Changing the Sounds with the

(p. 76).

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Limiting the Patches That Can Be Switched (PATCH EXTENT)

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

allows you to select only the patches you need.

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 3.

Press [F1] (MISC).

Adjusting the Screen’s Contrast

The text and icons in the LCD screen may be difficult to make out

sometimes, such as immediately after the VB-99 is turned on or after

extended use. The conditions at the place where you are using the

VB-99 can also affect visibility. Should you run into this problem, try

adjusting the contrast.

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Press [F1] (LCD).

Press [F3] (FROM).

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

Press [F4] (TO).

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

* These settings are enabled in the following situations.

• When the PATCH/VALUE dial is turned

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

• When SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN (p. 42) is used to assign PATCH SELECT INC or PATCH SELECT DEC to the FC-300’s control switches or expression pedal switches These settings have no effect on other FC-300 operations or operations using an external MIDI device.

Turn the F1 knob to adjust the contrast.

Setting the Output Signal and Level (SYSTEM OUTPUT)

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

jacks and connectors (MAIN OUT, SUB OUT, and DIGITAL OUT).

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 2.

Press [F1] (OUTPUT).

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Chapter 3

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

* If set to PATCH, the values set under

and Level (OUTPUT)”

MIXER screen is disregarded, and instead the value < > is applied.

Set the signal and level output to each output with PAGE [ ] [ ] or with the F1–F6 knobs.

For detailed information on the parameters that can be

set, refer to

“OUTPUT”

(p. 33) are enabled. The value in the

(p. 151).

“Setting the Output Signal

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

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

the following operations:

• Switch patches

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

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

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

• Switch the FC-300’s Amp Control on and off

Connecting with the RRC2 IN Connector

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

the unit.

What is RRC2?

RRC2 is a Roland protocol that provides for the supply of

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

Devices can also be connected using a commercially available

ethernet cable instead of the included RRC2 cable.

Settings Related to the FC300

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

the settings below as needed.

Settings for Control of the FC300

This sets the method for controlling the FC-300.

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

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

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

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

• Category 5 (Cat5) or above

• Maximum length of 15 meters

• Cable designed for straight-through connection.

* Ethernet cables designed for crossover connections cannot be used.

Press [F5] (FC-300).

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

Available Settings

OFF

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

Description

When connected to the VB-99, the FC-300 automatically changes to Exclusive mode and functions in accordance with the settings made with the VB-99. This is the setting normally selected. You can control the FC-300 even without matching the VB-99’s and FC-300’s Device IDs. Connecting an FC-300 automatically switches the FC-300 to Exclusive mode. Normally, you should select this setting.

Select OFF when using the FC-300 in a mode other than System Exclusive mode. The mode does not switch automatically.

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

Setting the Operation When Patches Are Switched

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

[ ] [ ] pedals on the FC-300.

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Press [F5] (FC-300).

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

Available Settings

IMMEDIATE

WAIT NUM

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

Description

The patch changes immediately when the FC-300’s

[ ] [ ] pedals are pressed.

Even after the FC-300’s [ ] [ ] pedals are pressed, the patch does not change until the NUMBER is set.

Activating the VB-99’s Tuner from the FC-300 (QUICK TUNER)

You can use the FC-300’s number pedals to switch the Tuner

function on and off.

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

* The Quick Tuner function is enabled only when the FC-300’s

MODE is set to SYS EX.

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Press [F5] (FC-300).

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

Available Settings

OFF

ON The QUICK TUNER function is operational.

Description

The QUICK TUNER function is not operational.

The TUNER function is alternately switched on and off each time the currently selected number pedal is pressed.

Chapter 4

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

Setting the FC-300 Amp Control

This switches the FC-300’s AMP CTL 1 and AMP CTL 2 parameters

on and off.

When the bass amp’s channel switch jack is connected to the FC-

300’s AMP CONTROL 1 jack (or AMP CONTROL 2 jack), you can

then switch the bass amp channels with the VB-99’s AMP CTL1 (or

AMP CTL2) parameter.

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

Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

Press [F4] (AMP CTL).

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

Available Settings

OFF

With Amp Control, not only can you switch amp

channels, you can also use it to switch the amp’s effects

on and off, like a foot switch controller.

Description

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

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

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

About MIDI

MIDI, an abbreviation for Musical Instrument Digital Interface, is a

universal standard that enables musical instruments to exchange

musical performance data, messages concerning changes in the

sounds, and other information. Any device that conforms to the

MIDI specifications can communicate (to the extent that is relevant

to both devices) with any other MIDI device, even those that were

made by a different manufacturer or that belong to a different

category of instrument.

Under the MIDI specifications, performance data produced by such

actions as playing a keyboard or pressing a pedal is handled as MIDI

messages.

What You Can Do Using MIDI

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

99.

If using the VB-99 with an FC-300 connected, also refer to

Using the VB-99 in Combination with an FC-300”

* Use of MIDI requires that the MIDI channels of connected devices

be matched.

Data cannot be transmitted to or received from other MIDI devices

unless the MIDI channels are set correctly.

Operating from the VB-99

Outputting Program Change Messages

When a patch is selected with the VB-99, the VB-99 simultaneously

transmits a Program Change message corresponding to the selected

number. The external MIDI device switches its settings in response

to the received Program Change message.

“Chapter 4

(p. 46).

Outputting Performance Data

The bass’s performance data can be output as Note messages and

Bend messages, allowing you to perform through synthesizer sound

modules and other devices connected to the VB-99. For more

detailed information, refer to

Sound Module (BASS TO MIDI)”

“Playing an External Synthesizer

(p. 58).

Transmitting Data

You can use Exclusive messages to transmit settings for effect

sounds and other data stored in the VB-99 to other MIDI devices.

This allows you to give another VB-99 the identical settings and to

save effect sound settings to MIDI sequencers and other such

devices.

Controlling the VB-99 from an External MIDI Device

Switching Patch Numbers

The VB-99’s patches switch immediately in response to Program

Change messages received from external MIDI devices.

You can set the correspondence between MIDI Program

Change messages and the VB-99’s patches with the

PC MAP (RECEIVE PROGRAM CHANGE MAP)”

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

effect sounds with those of other MIDI devices.

The connections shown in the diagram below are used when playing

your bass backed by an automatic sequencer performance. The VB-

99’s patches change automatically when a Program number is

entered with the performance data at the point where you want the

VB-99’s patches to change.

“RX

(p.

Chapter 5

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

Outputting Control Change Messages

Data describing the action of an external device (expression pedal or

footswitch) connected to the VB-99 is output as Control Change

messages. These messages can be used for such tasks as adjusting

external MIDI devices’ parameters.

MIDI OUT

MIDI IN

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Receiving Control Change Messages

The VB-99 can receive Control Change messages to

control specified parameters while a performance is in

progress. Set the parameters to be controlled with

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

Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)”

Receiving Data

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

saved to MIDI sequencers.

(p. 77).

Main Types of MIDI Messages Handled by the VB-99

In order to be able to convey the full range of expression that is

possible during performance, MIDI provides for different types of

MIDI messages. MIDI messages can be categorized broadly into two

groups; messages handled on an individual MIDI channel basis

(Channel messages), and those handled independently of MIDI

channels (System messages).

Channel Messages

These are messages used for conveying the events that take place

during performance. Normally, you can control most performances

using only these messages. The action controlled with each MIDI

message is determined by the receiving device’s settings.

Program Change Messages

These message are generally used for switching sounds; sounds are

switched with Program Change numbers 1–128. Furthermore, with

the VB-99, you can also use Control Change Bank Select messages

together with the Program Change messages, allowing you to switch

400 different patch numbers.

Control Change Messages

Control Change messages are used for enhancing performance

expression. Functions are distinguished from one another with

Control numbers; the particular functions that can be controlled

varies with the MIDI device. With the VB-99, you can control

specified parameters.

Note On Messages

These messages convey to the device the pitches and volumes at

which sounds are played.

Note Off Messages

These messages instruct the device to stop sounds currently being

played.

Bend Messages

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

System Messages

System messages include Exclusive messages, messages required for

synchronized performances, and messages designed to prevent

problems with operation.

Exclusive Messages

Exclusive messages are used for handling sounds unique to a

particular device and other such messages. Basically, you can

exchange messages between devices of the same type from the same

manufacturer. Using Exclusive messages, you can store parameter

settings to sequencers and transmit parameter settings to other VB-

99s.

To exchange Exclusive messages, the Device ID numbers for each of

the instruments must match.

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

TransmitFunction

Fold here

MIDI Device A MIDI Device B

Recognized

Remarks

About the MIDI Implementation

While the use of MIDI allows various devices to communicate with

each other, this does not mean that it enables exchanges of all

information. The data that can be exchanged between any two

connected devices is limited to the messages common to both

devices.

Therefore, MIDI device owner’s manuals always contain a MIDI

Implementation chart, which allows the user to determine quickly

what MIDI messages the particular device supports. Comparing the

MIDI Implementation charts for each device allows you to confirm

what information can be exchanged and how to accomplish this.

Since these charts are uniform in size, you can overlay the charts for

the transmitting and receiving devices when checking the

information.

Exchanging MIDI Messages

This section provides a simple description of how MIDI messages

are exchanged.

About MIDI Connectors

MIDI messages are exchanged via the connectors described below.

Connect MIDI cables to these connectors according to the use.

MIDI Connector

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT Messages from the VB-99 are transmitted here.

Description

Messages from other MIDI devices are received here.

Chapter 5

A separate publication titled “MIDI Implementation” is also

available. It provides complete details concerning the way MIDI

has been implemented on this unit. If you should require this

publication (such as when you intend to carry out byte-level

programming), please access the Roland web site.

http://www.roland.com/

About MIDI Channels

MIDI allows various different messages to be sent separately to

multiple MIDI devices over a single MIDI cable. This is possible

thanks to the concept of MIDI channels.

MIDI channels use an approach similar to that of television channels.

Switching channels on the TV allows the viewer to watch programs

from a variety of broadcasters. This is because information is

transferred over the channel to which both the transmitter and

receiver are tuned.

TV information from many different broadcasting

Broadcasting

Station A

Broadcasting

Station B

Broadcasting

Station C

MIDI includes channels numbered 1–16; MIDI messages are

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

transmitting device’s.

station is sent through an antenna.

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

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Bank Select and Program Change

Bank Select and Program Change are MIDI messages generally used

for switching patches.

Normally, patches are switched using Program Change messages.

However, if Program Changes alone are used, you’ll only be able to

select up to a maximum of 128 different patches. Because of this,

some devices also employ the Bank Select, expanding the number of

selectable patches.

Patches for these devices are assigned numbers combining Bank

Select MSB, LSB numbers 0–127 and Program numbers 1–128.

* The VB-99 disregards the Bank Select LSB.

Setting the MIDI-Related Functions

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

according to how they are to be used.

Press [SYSTEM].

The System screen appears.

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Press [F6] (MIDI).

The MIDI settings screen appears.

The following section describes the settings used with MIDI.

MIDI Channel

This sets the channel used for transmitting and receiving MIDI

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

Also refer to

(BASS TO MIDI)”

function, and refer to

(V-LINK)”

“Playing an External Synthesizer Sound Module

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

“Controlling Video Images with Your Bass

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

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Rotate the F1 knob to set the MIDI channel (1–

16).

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

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

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

MIDI Omni Mode

When set to MIDI Omni mode, the VB-99 receives messages on all

MIDI channels, regardless of the MIDI channel settings. You can use

Omni mode whenever you do not need to use specific MIDI

channels in controlling the VB-99.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

Even with Omni mode set to ON, the only Exclusive

messages received will be those carrying the Device ID

set for Device ID.

Omni mode is set to ON at the factory.

MIDI Device ID

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

of Exclusive messages.

SYNC CLOCK

You can synchronize the VB-99 to the MIDI Clock (tempo)

transmitted from a MIDI sequencer or other external MIDI device.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

For detailed information on the parameters that can be

set, refer to

External Device”

“Syncing to the MIDI Clock from an

(p. 58).

MIDI ROUTING

Set the VB-99’s control signal path.

The VB-99 features three types of connectors for data input and

output: the MIDI connectors (IN/OUT), a USB connector, and the

RRC2 IN connector. When connecting the VB-99 to devices other

than the FC-300, you need to consider the routing of the control

signals.

Check the display as you set the necessary connections.

You can make the settings for MIDI IN and OUT on Page 2, for the

USB connector on Page 3, and for the RRC2 IN connector on Page 4.

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

Chapter 5

Device ID is set to 1 at the factory.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

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

Set the connections with [F1]–[F3] or the F1– F3 knobs.

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

MIDI PC OUT

This setting determines whether or not Program Change messages

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

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 5.

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

When outputting Program Change messages, the VB-99

simultaneously outputs MIDI Bank Select messages.

TX PC MAP (TRANSMIT PROGRAM CHANGE MAP)

This setting determines the sequence of Program Change messages

output when the VB-99’s patches are changed.

You can select whether to output Program Change messages set for

the patches in advance or the Program Change messages

programmed in each patch.

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 5.

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

Available Settings

FIX

PROG

The table below shows the correspondence between the patches and

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

Description

Regardless of the patch settings, Program Change messages predetermined for each patch number are output.

The Program Change messages programmed in each patch are output.

Patch Number

001

: : :

100 0 100

101 1 1

: : :

200 1 100

201 2 1

: : :

400 3 100

Bank Select Program

Number

0 1

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Setting the TX PC MAP

To set Program Change messages to be transmitted with individual

patches, make the settings described below.

Patch parameters are settings made individually for each

patch.

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

in the settings.

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

Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

Press [F5] (TX PC).

Use [F1] – [F3] or F1 – F3 knob to set the Program Change Number and the Bank Select.

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

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

RX PC MAP (RECEIVE PROGRAM CHANGE MAP)

You can select whether to use a fixed or freely set correspondence

between program numbers received and the patches switched to

when the VB-99’s patches are switched by Program Change

messages transmitted by an external MIDI device.

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 5.

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

Available Settings

FIX

PROG

Description

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

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

Chapter 5

To change the patch assigned to a received Program Number, press [LEFT] [RIGHT] to display Page 6.

The RX PC MAP screen appears.

Assign the patch to a received Program Number.

• [F1] (BANK)/F1 Knob Selects the Bank number.

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

• [F5] (SELECT)/F5 Knob Selects the patch.

When the combination of the Bank number and Program

number selected with F1, F2, and F3 is received, the VB-99

switches to the patch selected with F5.

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

The table below shows the correspondence between the factory

default Program change Map and the Program Change messages

received when RX PC MAP is set to FIX.

Bank Select

Program Number

: : :

0 128 128

1 1 101

: : :

2 128 328

3 1 301

: : :

3 100 400

* When setting

“MIDI CH (MIDI Channel)”

transmit channel beforehand.

1 001

“OMNI MODE”

Patch Number

(p. 149) to OFF, be sure to match

(p. 149) to the external MIDI device’s

Setting the MIDI Output Control Change Number

This sets the Control Change numbers output when the VB-99’s

pedals and external pedals or the FC-300’s pedals and external

pedals are operated.

Bulk Dump

With the VB-99, you can use Exclusive messages to set another VB-99

to the same settings or to save effect sound settings to MIDI

sequencers and other such devices.

This transmission of data is referred to as bulk dump.

Data that can be transmitted is described below.

Displayed

ALL

SYSTEM SYSTEM parameters.

GK SETTING Settings content for GK SETTING

GLOBAL GLOBAL function settings

PATCH Settings for patch numbers 001–200

FAVORITE SETTING

Data Transmitted

All transmittable data (SYSTEM, GK SETTING, GLOBAL, PATCH 001–200, FAVORITE SETTING)

Settings content in FAVORITE SETTINGS 01– 10 for all effects

How to Transmit the Data

When Saving Data to a MIDI Sequencer

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

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

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 7.

The TX CC screen appears.

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

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

When the controller selected with F2 or F3 is operated, the

Control Change message selected with F5 is transmitted.

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

For information on how to operate the sequencer you are

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

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

When Transmitting Data to Another VB-99

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

the transmitting and receiving devices.

MIDI OUT

MIDI IN

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

Bulk Load

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

is referred to as bulk load.

When Receiving Data Saved to a MIDI Sequencer

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

Chapter 5

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 8.

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

Press [F1] (CHECK).

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

When selecting PATCH FROM/TO, you can use the

PATCH/VALUE dial to specify the range of patch

numbers to be transmitted

Repeat Steps 2 and 3 as needed.

Press [F6] (DUMP).

Transmission begins. Once the transmission is complete,

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

transmission.

Transmit the bulk data from the MIDI sequencer.

The message “SYSTEM EXCLUSIVE MESSAGE

RECEIVING...” is displayed while the data is being received.

Once the reception is complete, you’re returned to the screen

you were in prior to reception.

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

If the message “MIDI BUFFER FULL” appears, check the

connections and reduce the tempo of the transmitting

MIDI device.

You can cancel the procedure in progress by pressing

[EXIT].

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

About MIDI messages Output with Bass to MIDI

The following MIDI messages are output with Bass to MIDI.

Program Change Messages

These messages convey information about a patch change.

Control Change Messages

These messages describe any changes made using the panel

knobs or by operating pedals.

Syncing to the MIDI Clock from an External Device

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

This specifies the setting to be stored as the SYNC CLOCK

setting.

• INTERNAL The VB-99 operates independently.

• AUTO (USB) The VB-99 is synchronized to the MIDI Clock received via

USB. However, operations are automatically synchronized to

the VB-99’s internal Clock if the VB-99 is unable to receive the

external Clock.

• AUTO (MIDI) The VB-99 is synchronized to the MIDI Clock received via

MIDI. However, operations are automatically synchronized to

the VB-99’s internal Clock if the VB-99 is unable to receive the

external Clock.

• AUTO (RRC2) The VB-99 is synchronized to the MIDI Clock received via

RRC2. However, operations are automatically synchronized to

the VB-99’s internal Clock if the VB-99 is unable to receive the

external Clock.

Playing an External Synthesizer Sound Module (BASS TO MIDI)

The VB-99 can convert performance data to MIDI Note and Bend

messages and output these messages. Using this function allows you

to record performances to sequencers and play sounds through

external sequencer sound modules.

The BASS TO MIDI function features system parameters, whose

settings affect the overall functionality of the device, and patch

parameters, which are set on an individual patch basis.

Note On Messages

These messages convey to the device the pitches and volumes at

which sounds are played.

Note Off Messages

These messages instruct the device to stop sounds currently

being played.

Bend Messages

These messages are sent to produce continuous changes in the

pitch.

The Channel-A COSM BASS settings (PITCH SHIFT,

HARMO, and BEND) and the D Beam and ribbon

controller settings (T-ARM) affect the pitch (MIDI note

messages) output with Bass to MIDI. Channel B COSM

BASS settings are not affected.

* If the pitch (MIDI note messages) output with Bass to MIDI

becomes too low (or too high) because of the effects of the Channel A

COSM BASS settings, the pitch is automatically shifted one octave

higher (or lower).

Setting the BASS TO MIDI Function (System Parameters)

These procedures are used for making settings for the device as a

whole. Changes are saved automatically, and the Write procedure is

not required.

After entering these parameters, press [EXIT] several times to return

to the Play screen.

Switching the BASS TO MIDI Function On and Off

Press [BASS TO MIDI].

The BASS TO MIDI screen appears.

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

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

Press [BASS TO MIDI].

The BASS TO MIDI screen appears.

Press [F5] (SYSTEM).

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

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

Setting this to OFF prevents the output of all MIDI messages

related to the BASS TO MIDI function.

HOLD CTL Controller

GK S1, S2 GK-3B DOWN/S1, UP/S2 switch

CTL 1–4

FC-300 CTL1–8

Controllers to which HOLD CTL is assigned are enabled

simultaneously with parameters set in the SYSTEM

CONTROL ASSIGN settings (p. 146). Set CONTROL

ASSIGN to OFF if you want to use only the Hold

function.

You can select the way the Hold function operates. For

more details, refer to

Functions (HOLD TYPE)”

VB-99’s CONTROL 1, 2 buttons or foot switch connected to CTL 3,4 jack

FC-300’s CTL 1, 2 pedals or foot switch connected to CTL jacks 3–8

“Selecting How the Hold

(p. 63).

Chapter 5

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Thinning Out Bend Messages (BEND THIN)

Vibrato, slides, and other such data in bass performances are output

as Pitch Bend messages. For this reason, the receiving MIDI device

may encounter problems with operation when Pitch Bend messages

containing large amounts of data are included.

You can use the BEND THIN function to thin out the Pitch Bend

messages and control the volume of MIDI data.

Follow Steps 1–2 in

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

(p. 59) to display the BASS TO MIDI

screen.

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

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

data transmitted in the Pitch Bend messages.

Setting the MIDI Transmit Channel (BASIC CH)

This sets the MIDI channel used for output of string performance

data from the VB-99.

Set the MIDI channels according to the POLY/MONO mode as

shown below.

• When set to POLY mode The performance data for all of the strings is transmitted over

the basic channel.

• When set to MONO mode Hi C string: Transmitted over the basic channel.

1st string: Transmitted over the channel number one higher

than the basic channel.

Low B string: Transmitted over the channel number five

higher than the basic channel.

Preventing Transmission of Program Change Messages (PC MASK)

You can prevent transmission of Program Change messages that can

be set in

Simultaneously When Switching Patches (PC)”

“Outputting Program Change Messages

(p. 64).

* This does not affect such Program Changes as those set in

OUT”

(p. 54).

“MIDI PC

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

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

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

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

transmitted.

For more details about the mode, refer to

Transmission Mode (MODE)”

Follow Steps 1–2 in

“Selecting the Controller

(p. 61).

“Setting the

Used to Control the Hold Function (HOLD CTL)”

(p. 59) to display the BASS TO MIDI screen.

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

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Setting the BASS TO MIDI Function (Patch Parameters)

Patch parameters are settings made individually for each

patch. The Write procedure is required to save changes

in the settings. Carry out the Write procedure as needed.

Setting the Transmission Mode (MODE)

Press [BASS TO MIDI].

The BASS TO MIDI screen appears.

Press [F3] (PATCH).

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

All patches are set to MONO mode at the factory.

•

When chords are played in POLY mode, pitch bends change in semitone increments, while vibrato cannot be used. Pitch bends work normally in POLY Mode when playing single notes.

Chapter 5

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

• MONO (MONO Mode)

In this mode, one channel per string is used, thus using a total

of six channels.

Since each string uses a different MIDI channel, you can select

a different tone for each string, using string bending or

continuously varying the pitch on a specific string; however,

this requires use of a multitimbral sound module.

• POLY (POLY Mode)

In this mode, the messages for all six strings are transmitted

over a single channel.

While transmitting the MIDI messages for all of the strings

over one channel does simplify the settings needed for the

sound module and reduces the number of MIDI channels

used, it does impose certain limitations; for example,

permitting only one tone to be selected for all of the strings.

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Adjusting the Feel Produced in Playing the Bass (PLAY FEEL)

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

dynamics.

Changing this setting depending on the performance style used with

the bass or the tone allows you to express dynamics more naturally.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

• FEEL1–FEEL4 FEEL1 is the mode that gives sounds the broadest variation in

volume based on the playing dynamics. As the setting number

is increased, it becomes easier to produce high volume sounds

even with weaker playing.

This allows you to play with consistent volume, whether you

tap the strings or use rough playing.

• NO DYNA In this mode, sounds are played at a fixed volume regardless

of the playing strength.

• STRUM This suppresses the output of sounds from weaker playing.

This setting allows you to prevent undesired sounds

produced when playing rhythm or due to incidental contact

with strings from incorrect playing.

Changing the Pitch in Semitone Units (CHROMATIC)

When using string bending or other such techniques to gradually

change the pitch with the bass, you can set the VB-99 so that the

pitch of the MIDI messages being output changes in semitone

increments.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

Adjust the setting with [F3] (SELECT) or the F3 knob.

• OFF Normal Pitch Bend messages are output. The pitch varies

continuously in keeping with the string bending or vibrato.

• TYPE 1 When the pitch changes, this setting applies the results of the

pitch change information without stopping the note that is

playing.

This produces a unique effect, whereby there is no attack

sound when the pitches change, similar to slurring on a

recorder.

• TYPE 2 When the pitch changes, the VB-99 retriggers (replays) the

sound at the changed pitch, producing pitch changes only at

the semitone increments.

As a result, the attack sound plays each time the pitch

changes. The attenuation of the string vibration following the

moment the string is played is reflected in the gradual fading

of the retriggered sound.

• TYPE 3 As with TYPE 2, sounds are retriggered at the changed pitch,

expressing the pitch changes only in semitones.

However, instead of reflecting the attenuation of the string

vibration, the retriggered sound is the same as that when the

string was initially played.

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

Selecting How the Hold Functions (HOLD TYPE)

This selects the Hold function type when the controller set with the

HOLD CTL parameter (p. 59) is adjusted.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 1.

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

Adjust the setting with [F4] (SELECT) or the F4 knob.

• HOLD 1 The Note On messages are held when the Hold function is

switched on with the controller.

If the Hold function remains on as you continue to play the

strings, each successive Note On message is held, and when a

Note message is already being played from the same string,

the previous Note message is cancelled, and the next Note On

message is held. This allows you to prevent any interruption

in the sounds, even sounds from releasing the strings over the

frets.

• HOLD 2 The Note On messages are held when the Hold function is

switched on with the controller.

However, subsequent Note On messages are not output if you

continue to play the instrument with the Hold effect left on.

• HOLD 3 The Note On messages are held when the Hold function is

switched on with the controller.

If the Hold function remains on as you continue to play the

strings, Note On messages for strings other than the one

already being held can be output, but they are not held.

Outputting Control Changes by Operating the Controllers (CC)

You can operate the panel knobs and pedals to output Control

Change messages.

There are two different settings.

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Page 2.

Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob, or [F4] (SELECT) or the F4 knob, to select the controller you want to set.

SRC

GK VOL

GK S1 GK-3B DOWN/S1 Switch

GK S2 GK-3B UP/S2 Switch

CTL1 Control Button 1

CTL2 Control Button 2

EXP PEDAL External Expression Pedal

CTL3 External Footswitch 3

CTL4 External Footswitch 4

D BEAM V D BEAM Height

D BEAM H D BEAM Left-Right

RIBBON ACT Ribbon Controller Touch

RIBBON POS Ribbon Controller Touch Position

FC-300 EXP1 FC-300’s EXP PEDAL 1

FC-300 EXPSW1 FC-300’s EXP PEDAL SW1

FC-300 EXP2 FC-300’s EXP PEDAL 2

FC-300 EXPSW2 FC-300’s EXP PEDAL SW2

FC-300 CTL1 FC-300’s CTL1

FC-300 CTL2 FC-300’s CTL2

FC-300 E3/C3

FC-300 CTL4 FC-300’s External Footswitch 4

FC-300 E4/C5

FC-300 CTL6 FC-300’s External Footswitch 6

FC-300 E5/C7

FC-300 CTL8 FC-300’s External Footswitch 8

Controller

GK-3B Volume knob

FC-300’s External Expression Pedal 3, External Footswitch 3

FC-300’s External Expression Pedal 4, External Footswitch 5

FC-300’s External Expression Pedal 5, External Footswitch 7

Chapter 5

Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob, or [F5] (SELECT) or the F5 knob, to select the Control Change number you want to output.

Off, CC #1–#31, CC #64–#95

Chapter 5 Using MIDI

The MIDI channel over which the messages are output in

POLY mode is only the basic channel. In MONO mode,

the messages are output over the six channels spanning

from the basic channel up to the channel numbered five

above the basic channel.

Outputting Program Change Messages Simultaneously When Switching Patches (PC)

This sets the Program Change messages that are output when the

VB-99’s patches are switched.

* Program Change messages are not output while PC MASK (p. 60) is

set to ON.

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

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to display Pages 3–5.

When MODE (p. 61) is set to MONO, you can make settings

individually for each of the six strings of STRING HiC–LowB.

Make the settings with [F1]–[F6] or the F1–F6 knobs.

Set the following parameters.

BANK MSB

OFF, 0–127

BANK LSB

OFF, 0–127

OFF, 1–128

If you want to save the edited settings,

Explanation

This sets the Bank Select (MSB).

Explanation

This sets the Bank Select (LSB).

Explanation

This sets the Program Number.

perform the Write procedure (p. 34).

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

The MIDI channel over which the messages are output in

POLY mode is only the basic channel. In MONO mode,

the messages are output over the six channels spanning

from the basic channel up to the channel numbered five

above the basic channel.

Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected

What is a USB Driver?

A USB driver is software that acts as a go-between in

transferring data between computer applications (such as

recording software and sequencer software) and the USB device

when the computer and USB device are connected using a USB

cable.

The USB driver transmits data from the applications to the USB

device, and conversely, passes messages from the USB device to

the applications.

Dedicated Software for the VB-99

Dedicated software that enables you connect and use a

computer is available for the VB-99.

The software for the VB-99 will be available on the Roland

website (http://www.roland.com).

Separate versions for Windows and for Macintosh are available.

VB-99 Editor

You can use this to make settings for the VB-99 from your

computer.

You can also save tone setting (patch) data you have created as

files on the computer.

VB-99 Librarian

You can manage the VB-99’s settings and patches all together using your computer.

to a Computer Via USB

Driver Mode

Before Using the USB Connection

By using USB with the VB-99, you’ll be able to exchange digital

audio signals and MIDI messages with your computer.

Installing and Setting the USB Driver

Use of the VB-99’s USB functionality requires that the USB driver

first be installed on the computer.

The dedicated VB-99 driver is contained on the “VB-99 Software CD-

ROM” included with the VB-99.

As the program and procedures used in installing the driver vary

according to the operating environment, carefully read the following

Readme file contained on the “VB-99 Software CD-ROM” before use.

The VB-99 features two operational modes, one which uses the

special driver contained on the included CD-ROM, and one in which

the OS’s (Windows/Mac OS) standard driver is used.

Using the specialized driver, you can record, play back, and edit

audio with high-quality sound and stable timing.

It also allows you to control the VB-99 using MIDI messages.

Using OS

Windows XP

Windows Vista

Mac OS X

Contained location

\Driver\XP\Readme_E.htm

\Driver\Vista\Readme_E.htm

\Driver\Readme_E.htm

Application

USB

Driver

Computer

USB Connector

USB Cable

Chapter 6

VB-99

Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected to a Computer Via USB

Switching the Driver Mode

Press [SYSTEM].

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

Press [F2] (USB).

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 2.

Set the DRIVER MODE with [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob.

Setting the USB Functions

The following section describes the VB-99’s USB-related functions.

Make these settings in accordance with how you plan to use the VB-

99.

Setting the Digital Audio Signal Input and Output

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 2.

Press [F2] (USB).

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

Setting Explanation

STNDRD

ADVANC

* When using VB-99 Editor/Librarian, set this to ADVANC.

* The message “PLEASE RESTART” appears when DRIVER

MODE is switched.

Press [EXIT] one or more times to return to the

This mode uses the OS’s standard USB driver.

This mode uses the dedicated driver contained on the CD-ROM.

Play screen.

* If you have not yet installed the driver for the mode you have set,

turn off the power to the VB-99 in this condition and install the

driver.

Quit all sequencer software and other applications on the computer that are using the VB-99.

Turn on the power to the VB-99 again.

* The functions of a mode won’t become available until after the power

has been turned off, then on again.

About MIDI in Standard Driver Mode

You cannot use MIDI when STNDRD is selected as the driver mode.

If you want to use MIDI with the USB connection, set the VB-99 to

the advanced driver mode.

Change the setting’s value with [F1]–[F4] or the F1–F4 knobs.

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

Parameter/ Range

Explanation

USB IN

This sets the point at which digital audio signals received via USB (from your computer) are connected within the VB-99.

* Do not connect at a point before the point set with the USB OUT

parameter. For more on the connection points, refer to (p. 15).

* If the USB IN parameter is set to COSM BASS A, COSM BASS B, or

NORMAL PU, the setting automatically changes to MAIN & SUB the next time the VB-99 is powered up. If you plan to use COSM BASS A, COSM BASS B, or NORMAL PU, make the setting each time you turn on the power to the VB-99.

OFF

COSM BASS A The signals are connected at the point where

The signals are not connected at any point.

the COSM BASS A is output. The audio output from the computer, instead of the COSM bass sounds played by the connected bass, is input to the effects.

* POLY FX are not applied.

“Signal Flow”

Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected to a Computer Via USB

Parameter/ Range

COSM BASS B

NORMAL PU

MAIN OUT The signals are connected at the point where

SUB OUT The signals are connected at the point where

MAIN&SUB The signals are connected at the point where

Explanation

The signals are connected at the point where the COSM BASS B is output. The audio output from the computer, instead of the COSM bass sounds played by the connected bass, is input to the effects.

* POLY FX are not applied.

The signals are connected at the normal pickup input. The audio output from the computer, instead of the normal sounds played by the connected bass, is input to the effects.

MAIN OUT is output. The signals from the VB-99’s MAIN OUT and the audio output from the computer are mixed and output.

SUB OUT is output. The signals from the VB-99’s SUB OUT and the audio output from the computer are mixed and output.

both MAIN OUT and SUB OUT are output. Each of the signals from the VB-99’s MAIN OUT and the audio output from the computer are mixed, SUB OUT and the audio output from the computer are mixed from the output.

IN LEVEL

0–200

Adjusts the volume level of the digital audio received via USB (from the computer).

USB OUT

This sets the point internally within the VB-99 from which signals are output via USB (to the computer).

COSM BASS A The output from COSM BASS A is output.

COSM BASS B The output from COSM BASS B is output.

NORMAL PU The normal pickup input is output.

CH A The output from Channel A is output.

CH B The output from Channel B is output.

MIXER (DRY) The signals that have been mixed with the

mixer, but before application of DELAY/ REVERB, are output.

MIXER The signals that have been mixed with the

mixer and have DELAY/REVERB applied are output.

MAIN OUT The same signals as those from MAIN OUT

are output.

SUB OUT The same signals as those from SUB OUT

are output.

OUT LEVEL

0–200

Adjusts the volume level of the digital audio output via USB (to the computer).

Setting the Direct Monitor

Press [SYSTEM].

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

Press [F2] (USB).

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 2.

Change the setting’s value with [F2] (SELECT), [F3] (OFF/ON) or the F2, F3 knobs.

For more information on signal paths set by the Direct

Monitor parameter settings, refer to

15).

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

“Signal Flow”

(p.

Chapter 6

Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected to a Computer Via USB

Audio signal

DIRECT MON

MAIN or SUB

USB OUT USB IN

Audio OUT

Audio IN

VB-99 sound

Computer

Headphones

Bass Amp

Mixer

Parameter/ Range

Explanation

MON CMD (Monitor Command)

This setting determines whether or not the command (the Direct Monitor command) controlling the Direct Monitor (described later) setting is enabled.

DISABL The Direct Monitor command is disabled,

maintaining the Direct Monitor mode set by the VB-99.

ENABLE The Direct Monitor command is enabled, al-

lowing the Direct Monitor mode to be switched from an external device.

DIRECT MON (Direct Monitor)

Switches the output of the VB-99 sound to the PHONES jack, MAIN OUT jacks, or SUB OUT jacks.

Recording the VB-99’s Output with a Computer

In the computer application, set the audio input port to the VB-99.

You can freely set the point at which signals are sent to the computer

with

“USB OUT”

For example, by selecting COSM BASS A or COSM BASS B, you can

listen to the performance with the effects applied, while recording it

without the effects.

* If passing audio data through the software you’re using, switch the

direct monitor off.

(p. 67)

OFF Set this to Off if transmitting audio data in-

ternally through a computer (Thru).

ON The VB-99 sound is output. Set this to On

when using the VB-99 as a standalone device, without connecting to a computer (only USB IN input sound will be output if this is set to Off).

* This setting cannot be saved. It is set to ON when the power is turned

on.

* If you are using the special driver, you can control DIRECT MON On/

Off from ASIO 2.0-compatible application.

Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected to a Computer Via USB

Using the VB-99 to Add Effects to Audio Playback from a Computer

In the computer application, set the audio output port to the VB-99.

You can use the VB-99 to apply effects to the audio data played by

the computer, then record the data again with the computer.

Use this process when, for example, you want to add effects to

existing audio data.

* Set the software so audio is not passed through it.

Press [SYSTEM].

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

Press [F2] (USB).

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

Use [F1] or the F1 knob to set the point within the VB at which you want the connection to be made.

Here, set either COSM BASS A, COSM BASS B, or NORMAL

PU.

For more information about the USB IN parameter

settings, refer to

Input and Output”

Use [F2] or the F2 knob to adjust the level of the digital audio from the USB (computer).

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

“Setting the Digital Audio Signal

(p. 66).

Chapter 6

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Changing the Tone in Real Time with the D Beam and Ribbon Controllers

Adjusting the D Beam (CALIBRATION)

The sensitivity of the D Beam controller can vary depending on the

amount of light in the vicinity of the controller and the object (e.g.,

hand, bass neck) used to operate it. Perform this adjustment so you

can control the tone in the intended range.

Press [SYSTEM].

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

• Be sure to adjust the CALIBRATION directly above the D Beam controller.

• When the message “MISSING THE TARGET!” appears, it indicates that the calibration is not being performed correctly.

• The CALIBRATION setting is a system parameter, so the Write procedure is not required.

OK!

Press [F6] (CALIB).

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

Set the beam’s responsive range as you actually operate the D Beam controller.

• First, hold the object you will use to activate the controller (your hand, bass neck, etc.) at the point farthest from the VB-99 in the range you want the controller to respond, and press [F1] (SetMIN).

• Next, hold the object at the closest point in the range you want the controller to respond, and press [F4] (SetMAX).

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

• The D Beam controller’s response may also vary with the stage lighting used. Confirm operation of the controller by testing it onstage under the actual illumination.

• If the set range is too narrow or if the positioning is not suitable, the message “OUT OF RANGE! SET AGAIN.” appears. To keep this message from appearing, change the range or position and recalibrate.

• The controller may not function properly with spot lights or other such lighting shining directly on it.

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Disabling the D Beam (DISABLE)

You can disable the D Beam controller for the entire device.

If you are using the VB-99 rack-mounted or otherwise not using the

D Beam controller, we recommend disabling the D Beam controller

by setting D BEAM DISAB to OFF.

Press [SYSTEM].

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

Press [F6] (CALIB).

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

The D BEAM CALIB screen appears.

Switch the controller on or off with [F6] (OFF/ ON).

Available Settings

OFF

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

Explanation

The D Beam is enabled.

The D Beam is disabled.

* Pressing the D BEAM [PITCH], [FILTER],

or [ASSIGNABLE] button to switch the D Beam controller on will have no effect.

Controlling Sounds by Hand Motion or the Bass Neck (D Beam Controller)

The D Beam controller allows you to change the sounds played by

moving your hand or bass neck over it. You can apply various effects

to the sound by changing the functions assigned to this controller.

Before using the D Beam controller, you need to adjust

its sensitivity

(CALIBRATION)”

Press the D BEAM [PITCH], [FILTER], or [ASSIGNABLE] button to switch the D Beam controller on.

The D Beam controller ON/OFF setting is a patch

parameter. Carry out the Write procedure as required.

(p. 34)

Available Settings

PITCH

FILTER

ASSIGNABLE

“Adjusting the D Beam

(p. 70).

Explanation

You can use the T-Arm function to control the bass’s pitch, and the Freeze function to hold bass sounds.

* The PITCH effect is applied only to

COSM basses. Use this with the COSM bass volume raised. (p. 30)

You can change the tone using the D Beam controller.

The D Beam controller controls the function assigned to it. You can assign a variety of functions to the controller.

The DISABLE setting is a system parameter, so the Write

procedure is not required.

For instructions on how to set these functions and tones, please

read

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

Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)”

While you play the bass to produce sound,

(p. 77).

place your hand or bass neck above the D Beam controller and move it slowly up and down.

Use of the D Beam ASSIGNABLE setting also enables

detection horizontally (left to right).

The effect is applied to the sound in accordance with the function assigned to the D Beam controller.

The blue indicator under the D Beam controller lights while the

D Beam effect is being applied.

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Effective Range of the D Beam Controller

The D Beam controller’s effective range is shown in the figure

below. Moving your hand outside this effective range produces

no effect.

The effective range of the D Beam controller will be

extremely limited when used under strong, direct

sunlight. Please be aware of this when using the D

Beam controller outdoors.

The sensitivity of the D Beam controller can vary

depending on the amount of light in the vicinity of

the unit. If it does not function as you expect, adjust

the D Beam.(p. 70)

The parameter values set by holding your hand or

other object over the D Beam controller change as

shown below.

D BEAM vertical movements

Explanation

Closer to the D Beam The value approaches the MAX value.

Farther from the D Beam

The value approaches the MIN value.

D BEAM horizontal movements

Explanation

To the right of the D Beam

The value approaches the MAX value.

To the left of the D Beam

The value approaches the MIN value.

To turn off the D Beam controller, press the button you pressed in Step 1 again so the indicator goes off.

Adjusting the Ribbon Controller (CALIBRATION)

While the ribbon controller has been adjusted at the factory for

optimum performance, the responsive range may vary with the

width of the finger used to activate the controller.

If this occurs, use the procedure below to readjust the range.

Press [SYSTEM].

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

Press [F6] (CALIB).

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 2.

The RIBBON CALIB screen appears.

Set the responsive range as you actually operate the ribbon controller.

• First, while holding your finger against the near end of the ribbon controller, press [F1] (SetMIN).

• Next, hold your finger against the far end and press [F4] (SetMAX).

If the message “OUT OF RANGE! SET AGAIN.” is displayed,

carry out the calibration process once more. If the message

continues to appear even after the calibration is correctly

performed, it may indicate damage or malfunction. Consult

your Roland dealer or contact Roland Service.

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

The CALIBRATION setting is a system parameter, so the

Write procedure is not required.

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Controlling the Sounds with the Movement of Your Fingertip (Ribbon Controller)

The ribbon controller allows you to change sounds by “scratching”

or tracing your finger along the ribbon. You can apply various effects

to the sound by changing the functions assigned to this controller.

Press the RIBBON CONTROLLER [PITCH], [FILTER], or [ASSIGNABLE] button to switch on the ribbon controller.

Available Settings

PITCH

FILTER

ASSIGNABLE

Explanation

You can use the T-Arm function to control

the bass’s pitch, and the Freeze function to

hold bass sounds.

* The PITCH effect is applied only to

COSM basses. Use this with the COSM

bass volume raised. (p. 30)

You can change the tone using the ribbon

controller.

The ribbon controller controls the function

assigned to it. You can assign a variety of

functions to the controller.

Holding Sounds for Extended Periods (FREEZE)

You can press the D BEAM [PITCH] button to use the FREEZE

effect, which allows you to hold sounds indefinitely.

Press [CONTROL ASSIGN]

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

Press [F1] (PITCH).

Select FREEZE with [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob.

The D BEAM FREEZE screen appears.

For more on how to set functions and tones, please read

the Switches, Pedals, and MIDI to Control the Sounds

(CONTROL ASSIGN)”

While you play the bass to produce sound,

(p. 77).

move your fingertip along the ribbon controller.

The effect is applied to the sound in accordance with the function assigned to the ribbon controller.

To turn off the ribbon controller, press the button you pressed in Step 1 again so the indicator goes off.

The setting switching the ribbon controller on and off is

a patch parameter. Carry out the Write procedure as

required.

A light touch is sufficient when operating the ribbon controller.

Never press the ribbon controller forcefully or with a hard or

pointed object.

“Using

Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob to select the channel with the sounds you want to freeze.

Set each of the FREEZE parameters on Page 1 or Page 2

For more detailed information on the parameters that can be set,

refer to (p. 136).

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

Press the D BEAM [PITCH] button, causing the indicator to light.

Play the bass, and while the sounds are playing, cut across the D Beam with your hand or bass neck.

10.

The FREEZE function switches on and the same sound continues to hold, while the D Beam controller’s blue indicator lights up.

11.

To switch FREEZE off, swipe your hand or bass neck across the D Beam controller’s beam.

* With D BEAM:FREEZE:SW set as the target in Control Assign,

you can control the FREEZE effect ON/OFF using an external

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Other Functions

pedal, MIDI device, or any of a variety of other controllers.

Changing the Pitch as with a Tremolo Arm (T-ARM)

You can press the D BEAM or RIBBON CONTROLLER [PITCH]

button to use T-ARM, which changes the pitch of the COSM bass like

a tremolo arm.

Press [CONTROL ASSIGN]

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2 for the D Beam, or Page 3 for the ribbon controller.

For more detailed information on the parameters that can be set,

refer to

“PITCH”

Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play

(p. 136), (p. 138).

screen.

Press the D BEAM or RIBBON CONTROLLER [PITCH] button, causing the indicator to light.

10.

Use the D Beam or ribbon controller like a tremolo arm to change the pitch.

* With D BEAM:T-ARM:SW or RIBBON:T-ARM:SW and “

BEAM:T-ARM:CONTROL and RIBBON:T-ARM:CONTROL set

as the target in Control Assign, you can control the T-ARM effect

using an external pedal, MIDI device, or any of a variety of other

controllers.

Press [F1] (PITCH).

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

Select T-ARM with [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob.

The D BEAM T-ARM or the RIBBON T-ARM screen appears.

* This step is not necessary if you are using the ribbon controller. In

this case, proceed to Step 5.

Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob in the D Beam screen or [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob in the Ribbon Controller screen to select the channel to which you want to apply the effect.

Set each of the T-ARM parameters on Page 1 or Page 2

Adding Nuance to the Sound (FILTER)

You can press the D BEAM or RIBBON CONTROLLER [FILTER]

button to apply the FILTER effect and add nuance to the tone in

Channel A or B, or both channels.

Press [CONTROL ASSIGN]

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to go to Page 2 for the D Beam, or Page 3 for the ribbon controller.

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Use the D Beam or ribbon controller to apply the filter and add nuance to the sound.

* With D BEAM:FILTER:SW or RIBBON:FILTER:SW and D

BEAM:FILTER:CONTROL and RIBBON:FILTER:CONTROL set

as the target in Control Assign, you can control

FILTER:CONTROL using an external pedal, MIDI device, or any

of a variety of other controllers.

Press [F2] (FILTER).

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

The D BEAM FILTER or the RIBBON FILTER screen appears.

Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select the channel to which you want the effect to be applied.

Set each of the FILTER parameters on Page 1.

For more detailed information on the parameters that can be set,

refer to

“FILTER”

(p. 137), (p. 138).

Chapter 7

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

Press the D BEAM or RIBBON CONTROLLER [FILTER] button, causing the indicator to light.

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Changing the Sounds with the Function Knobs as You Play (DIRECT EDIT)

You can assign parameters to the F1–F6 knobs to control the

parameters as you play.

Additionally, you can check (display) the assigned parameters by

pressing [F1]–[F6].

* Set the DIRECT EDIT parameter (p. 148) settings to PATCH.

Press [CONTROL ASSIGN]

Press PAGE [ ] to go to the last page.

Press [F6] (F1–F6) to enter the DIRECT EDIT screen.

The DIRECT EDIT screen appears.

When Messages Are Displayed

These appear because the DIRECT EDIT parameter is set to

SYSTEM.

This means that the settings in the DIRECT EDIT screen, which

are the patch parameters, have no effect.

To enable the settings, the DIRECT EDIT parameter in the

CONTROL screen for SYSTEM must be set to PATCH. For

detailed information, refer to

for the Features Controlled by the Function Knobs

(SYSTEM DIRECT EDIT)”

To dismiss this message, press [EXIT].

“Making System-wide Settings

(p. 43).

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

Use the [F1]–[F6] or F1–F6 knobs to select the parameters you want to assign to the knob.

You can quickly locate and select the desired parameter by first

narrowing down the parameter type with F1 (F4), then using F2

(F5) and then F3 (F6) to reach the right parameter.

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

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

Using the Switches, Pedals, and MIDI to Control the Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)

These settings are made when parameters are to be controlled with

the GK-3B VOLUME knob or DOWN/S1, UP/S2 switches, the VB-

99’s CONTROL buttons, an external pedal or other connected

controller, or a connected MIDI device.

In addition to settings already assigned to controllers, the VB-99 also

features sixteen prepared general-purpose control assigns that let

you freely assign settings to controllers as you like.

* If you intend to control the parameters of effects and the like, be sure to

set the effect to ON beforehand.

* For more detailed information on the parameters, refer to

“CONTROL ASSIGN”

* Enabling the settings requires setting each of the controller

assignments to ASSIGNABLE in the SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN screen. For detailed information, refer to

Control and Switch and the Pedal Function (SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN)”

(p. 135),

“Setting the GK VOLUME

(p. 42).

PITCH

FILTER

DBM V

DBM H

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Displayed screen

D BEAM T-ARM/ D BEAM FREEZE

D BEAM FILTER

D BEAM V

D BEAM H

Controller

Control of TREMOLO ARM/ FREEZE with the D Beam controller

Control of FILTER with the D Beam controller

D Beam controller vertical sensor

D Beam controller horizontal sensor

Press [CONTROL ASSIGN]

Select the controller you want to set with

PAGE [ ] [ ] and [F1]–[F6].

The various controllers’ setting screens appear.

* The following section describes the controllers you can set.

GK VOL

S1, S2

CTL1

CTL2

Displayed screen

GK VOL

GK S1, S2

CONTROL1

CONTROL2

Controller

Settings for the volume knob on the GK-3B.

Settings for the switches on the GK-3B.

Settings for the CONTROL 1 button on the VB-99’s top panel.

Settings for the CONTROL 2 button on the VB-99’s top panel.

PITCH

FILTER

RB POS

RB ACT

EXP

CTL3

CTL4

Displayed screen

RIBBON T-ARM

RIBBON FILTER

RIBBON POS

RIBBON ACT

Displayed screen

EXP PEDAL

CTL3

CTL4

Controller

Control of PITCH with the TREMOLO ARM.

Control of FILTER with the Ribbon controller

Ribbon controller position sensor

Ribbon controller touch sensor

Controller

Settings for the expression pedal connected to the EXP PEDAL jack on the VB-99’s rear panel.

Settings for the footswitch connected to the CTL3 jack on the VB-99’s rear panel.

Settings for the footswitch connected to the CTL4 jack on the VB-99’s rear panel.

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Other Functions

EXP1

EXPSW1

EXP2

EXSW2

CTL1

CTL2

E3/C3

CTL4

E4/C5

CTL6

E5/C7

CTL8

Displayed screen

FC EXP1

FC EXPSW1

FC EXP2

FC EXPSW2

FC CTL1

FC CTL2

Displayed screen

FC E3/C3

FC CTL4

FC E4/C5

FC CTL6

FC E5/C7

FC CTL8

Controller

Settings for the expression pedal 1 on the FC-300 connected to the VB-

99.

Settings for the expression pedal switch 1 on the FC-300 connected to the VB-99.

Settings for the expression pedal 2 on the FC-300 connected to the VB-

99.

Settings for the expression pedal switch 2 on the FC-300 connected to the VB-99.

Settings for the CTL1 on the FC-300 connected to the VB-99.

Settings for the CTL2 on the FC-300 connected to the VB-99.

Controller

Settings for the expression pedal 3 or footswitch 3 connected to the FC-300’s rear panel.

Settings for the footswitch 4 connected to the FC-300’s rear panel.

Settings for the expression pedal 4 or footswitch 5 connected to the FC-300’s rear panel.

Settings for the footswitch 6 connected to the FC-300’s rear panel.

Settings for the expression pedal 5 or footswitch 7 connected to the FC-300’s rear panel.

Settings for the footswitch 8 connected to the FC-300’s rear panel.

Displayed

Controller

screen

ASGN 1 : ASGN16

F1–F6

ASSIGN1 : ASSIGN16

DIRECT EDIT

Select the function you want to assign with

Settings for general purpose assigns you can set freely as controllers for MIDI messages and other controllers in addition to those described above.

Settings for the function knobs arranged below the VB-99’s LCD.

PAGE [ ] [ ], [F1]–[F6], and the F1–F6 knobs.

You can assign two different functions to one controller.

For example, you can assign separate functions to the

GK VOL (1) and GK VOL (2) displayed in the screen.

For more on PITCH and FILTER of the D BEAM controller,

refer to

“Controlling Sounds by Hand Motion or the Bass

Neck (D Beam Controller)”

FILTER of the Ribbon controller, refer to

Sounds with the Movement of Your Fingertip (Ribbon

Controller)”

(p. 73).

(p. 71). For more on PITCH and

“Controlling the

Chapter 7 Other Functions

The following section describes the parameters you can set on each page.

* The screen shown in the example is for ASSIGN1.

Page 1, 3

F1: SOURCE (ASSIGN1–16 only)

This selects the controller assigned to the function.

F3: SW (ON/OFF)

Setting this to ON enables the controller.

F4–F6: TARGET PARAMETER

Use these to select the parameter you want to assign.

You can quickly locate and select the desired parameter by first

narrowing down the parameter type with F4, then using F5 and

then F6 to reach the right parameter.

For more details on the parameters, refer to

ASSIGN”

(p. 135).

“CONTROL

Page 2, 4

F4: MODE (GK S1, S2 only)

This specifies how the switches function.

* Combinations of the actions below are possible.

S1: DEC / S2: INC S1: INC / S2: DEC S1: MIN / S2: MAX S1: MAX / S2: MIN

Available Settings

INC

DEC

MIN

MAX

F5: RANGE LOW (only when an expression pedal or other controller

that changes values in a continuous, non-discrete way is set as

the source)

This sets the minimum for the range in which the value of the

setting can be changed.

F6: RANGE HIGH (only when an expression pedal or other

controller that changes values in a continuous, non-discrete way

is set as the source)

This sets the maximum for the range in which the value of the

setting can be changed.

Explanation

The value increases.

The value decreases.

The value is set to the minimum.

The value is set to the maximum.

F2: MIN

This sets the minimum value for the target’s controllable range.

F3: MAX

This sets the maximum value for the target’s controllable range.

F4: SW MODE (only when a switch type controller is selected for

SOURCE)

This specifies how the switches function.

Available Settings

MOMENT

LATCH

Explanation

The parameter switches to the maximum value only while the switch is held down, and switches to the minimum value when the switch is released.

The value alternately switches between maximum and minimum each time the switch is pressed.

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Other Functions

About the Range of Targets’ Change

The target’s value changes between MIN (the minimum value)

and MAX (the maximum value).

When a foot switch or other controller that switches settings on

and off is used, OFF sets the minimum value and ON sets the

maximum value.

When an expression pedal or other controller that changes

values in a consecutive manner is used, the value changes

within the range between MIN and MAX.

When an expression pedal or other controller that changes

values in a consecutive manner is used to control a two-value

(On/Off) parameter, the controller functions as shown below.

127

Degree to

Which Expression

Pedal Is Depressed

EXP Pedal

When the pedal

is fully raised

When the pedal is fully advanced

MIN

MAX

Value

Allowable Parameter

Settings Range

127

RANGE

LOW

RANGE

HIGH

MIN

MAX

Value

Degree to

Which Expression

Pedal Is Depressed

Allowable Parameter

Settings Range

Allowable Parameter

Value

MAX

Settings Range

MIN

Off On

Footswitch

About the Range of Controllers’ Change

This sets the operational range (range in which the value

actually changes) for an expression pedal, or similar controller

that changes the value of a setting in a continuous fashion,

when it has been set as the source.

If the controller adjustment moves beyond the enabled range of

operation, the value of the setting remains at the maximum

value or minimum value, without changing any further.

Value

OFF

When the pedal

is fully raised

When the pedal

is advanced halfway

EXP Pedal

is fully advanced

Which Expression

Pedal Is Depressed

127

When the pedal

Degree to

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

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

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Activating the Virtual Expression Pedal at the Start of Operations (Internal Pedal System)

The VB-99 features a function called Internal Pedal system. This

function assigns specified parameters to a virtual expression pedal

(the internal pedal), providing an effect automatically that changes

volume and tone in real time just the way an expression pedal

functions.

The Internal Pedal system features the following two functions,

allowing you to set Source for each assign 1-16 (p. 78) of the Control

Assign (p. 77).

• Internal Pedal

• Wave Pedal

* When the Internal Pedal or the Wave Pedal is used, set the ASSIGN

SW MODE to MOMENT.

Internal Pedal

With the trigger you have set, the assumed expression pedal starts

working. If you have set INTERNAL PEDAL to SOURCE, set the

TRIGGR parameter (p. 141).

For more detailed information on the parameters that can be set

using INTERNAL PEDAL, refer to

141),

“TIME”

(p. 141), and

“CURVE”

“TRIGGR (Trigger)”

(p. 141).

(p.

One Touch Call Up of Favorite Patches (DIRECT PATCH)

You can assign your favorite patches to the [DIRECT PATCH 1] –

[DIRECT PATCH 5] buttons, then call up these patches just by

pressing the buttons.

Setting DIRECT PATCH

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

Press [F2] (DIRECT).

The DIRECT PATCH screen appears.

Wave Pedal

This changes the parameter selected as a target in a certain cycle with

the assumed expression pedal. When you have set WAVE PEDAL

for SOURCE, the RATE parameter (p. 141) and FORM parameter (p.

141) should be set.

For more detailed information on the parameters that can be set

using WAVE PEDAL, refer to

141).

“RATE”

(p. 141) and

“FORM”

(p.

Use the F1–F5 knobs to select the patches to be assigned to [DIRECT PATCH 1]– [DIRECT PATCH 5].

The numbers correspond, with DIR. PATCH 1 assigned with

the F1 knob, DIR. PATCH 2 assigned with the F2 knob, and so

on.

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

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Managing the Patches

Saving and Copying Patches (PATCH WRITE)

To save any changes you’ve made in the settings, you need to

perform the write procedure.

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

another patch location.

Press [WRITE].

The PATCH WRITE screen appears.

“WRITE TO” is displayed, and the write-destination patch

number and name are indicated.

Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the copydestination patch.

Exchanging the Current Patch with a Different Patch (PATCH EXCHANGE)

This exchanges the user patch with the different patch.

* You cannot exchange tones in preset patches.

Confirm that a User patch is selected.

Press [WRITE].

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 2.

“EXCHANGE” is displayed.

The exchange-destination patch number and name are

indicated.

Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the exchange-destination patch.

Press [WRITE] again.

The message “NOW WRITING...” is displayed as the patch is

copied, and the VB-99 changes to the copy-destination patch

number.

* If you are not saving the settings, press [EXIT] to return to the Play

screen.

Press [WRITE] again.

The message “NOW EXCHANGING...” is displayed as the

current patch and the selected patch are exchanged, and the VB-

99 changes to the exchange-destination patch number.

* If you do not want to exchange the patches, press [EXIT] to return to

the Play screen.

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Initializing User Patches (PATCH INITIALIZE)

You can set user patches to their initial conditions, with all effects

switched off.

This is convenient when you want to create a patch from scratch.

* You cannot initialize preset patches.

Confirm that a User patch is selected.

Press [WRITE].

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 3.

The PATCH INITIALIZE screen appears.

“INITIALIZE” is displayed, and the number and name of the

patch to be initialized are indicated.

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

Press [WRITE] again.

The message “NOW INITIALIZING...” is displayed as the VB-

99 switches to the patch to be initialized, then the Play screen

returns.

Copying Settings Between Channel A and Channel B (A/B COPY)

Go to the settings screen for the parameters whose settings you want to copy.

Press PAGE [ ] several times to go to the last page.

Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select A/B COPY.

Press [F6] (EXEC) to copy the settings.

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

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

Exchanging the Channel A and Channel B Settings (A/B EXCHANGE)

Go to the settings screen for the parameters whose settings you want to exchange.

* If you do not want to initialize the patch, press [EXIT] to return to the

Play screen.

Press PAGE [ ] several times to go to the last page.

Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select A/B EXCHNG.

Press [F6] (EXEC) to exchange the settings.

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

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

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Partially Copying Parameters in a Different Patch (MODULE COPY)

You can copy and reuse portions of patch parameters (such as

COSM amps, effects, and other modules).

Go to the settings screen for the parameters whose settings you want to copy.

Press PAGE [ ] several times to go to the last page.

Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select MODULE COPY.

The MODULE COPY screen appears.

Use [F2] (PATCH) or the F2 knob and [F3] (SOURCE) or the F3 knob to select the copy source.

The following parameters can be handled as modules.

• COSM BASS

• POLY FX

• Overall FX for Channel A and B

• Each of the effects in FX

• COSM AMP

• MIXER section DELAY and REVERB

• MIXER section DYNAMIC

Press [F6] (EXEC) to copy the settings.

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

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

Partially Initializing Patch Parameters (MODULE INITIALIZE)

Go to the settings screen for the parameter whose settings you want to initialize.

Press PAGE [ ] several times to go to the last page.

Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select MODULE INIT.

The MODULE INITIALIZE screen appears.

Press [F6] (EXEC) to initialize the settings.

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

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

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Separating Patches into Groups (CATEGORY)

The VB-99 includes a function that allows you to categorize patches

into a number of different groups. This is called the CATEGORY

function. Specifying the category for each patch makes searching for

patches more convenient. The CATEGORY function also features ten

user categories you can name however you like.

Using CATEGORY to Call Up Patches

Confirm that the Play screen is displayed.

Press [CATEGORY].

The Category screen appears.

The categories and the patches in these categories are shown in

list format.

Use [F1] (SEL ) and [F2] (SEL ) or the F1 and F2 knobs to select the category.

Assigning a Patch to a Category

You can assign categories to patches and separate them into groups.

From the PLAY screen, use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the patch you want to include in a category.

Press [NAME/KEY/BPM].

Press [F1] (NAME).

The Name settings screen appears.

Press [F6] (CATGRY).

The Category settings popup appears.

Use the PATCH/VALUE dial or [F3] (SEL ),

[F4] (SEL ) to select a patch.

Press [CATEGORY] again.

The VB-99 switches to the selected patch.

If no operation if performed within a set period of time,

the display returns to the Play screen.

Use the F6 knob to select the category.

Press [EXIT].

The category is assigned to the patch.

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

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

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Naming User Categories (CATEGORY NAME)

Press [SYSTEM].

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

Press [F5] (CATGRY).

The Category Name settings screen appears.

Use [F6] or the F6 knob to select User Category with the name you want to change.

Storing Your Preferred Settings Individually (FAVORITE SETTINGS)

What are Favorite Settings?

The VB-99 includes a function that, apart from the patches, stores the

settings you like for each effects processor. These are called Favorite

Settings.

By storing the settings you like for each of a variety of effects

processors, you can then easily create sounds simply by combining

these settings.

Furthermore, creating patches using the Favorite Settings vastly

simplifies editing when multiple similar tones are used.

For example, if you beforehand select the same Favorite Settings for

a multiple number of patches, you’ll later be able to implement

changes in all those patches at once simply by editing the Favorite

settings.

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to the position with the character you want to change.

Select the character with the PATCH/VALUE dial.

As you continue to rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial, the

character guide automatically switches from uppercase letters

to lowercase letters, numerals, and symbols.

You can carry out the following operations by pressing [F1]–

[F6].

Buttons

[F1] (INSERT)

[F2] (DELETE)

[F3] (SPACE)

[F4] (A0!)

[F5] (A<=>a)

[F6] (CATGRY)

Repeat Steps 6 and 7 to complete the category

Functions

Inserts a blank space at the cursor position.

Deletes the character and shifts the following characters to the left.

Enters a blank space at the cursor position.

Switches between letters, numerals, and symbols.

Switches between uppercase and lowercase letters.

Select the user category you want to name.

name.

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

* Category names are system parameters. They are saved at the time

they are entered, even without the Write procedure.

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Calling Up Favorite Settings

Here is an example using the compressor effect.

Press [FX].

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

Press [F1] (COMP).

Press PAGE [ ] to display the last page (in this case, Page 3).

Changing Tone Settings

This procedure changes the tones in patches using the Favorite

Settings. The method below can also be used to edit the Favorite

Settings themselves.

Here is an example using the compressor effect.

Press [FX].

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

Press [F1] (COMP).

The number and name of the currently selected Favorite

Settings are displayed.

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

The FAVORITE screen appears.

Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob to select your preferred setting.

When you have made your choice, press [F6] (OK); to cancel the procedure, press [F5] (CANCEL) or press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play screen.

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

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

Press [F6] (EDIT).

Use [F1]–[F4] or the F1–F4 knobs to adjust the desired parameters on Pages 1 and 2.

To store the content of the settings, carry out the steps described next.

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Saving Changed Tones

There are two methods you can use to save changed tones.

Saving to Patches

Press [WRITE].

The PATCH WRITE screen appears.

Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the savedestination patch.

Press [WRITE].

Saving to the Favorite Settings

The following describes an example with the status indicated in the

Compressor edit screen in Step 4 of

87).

Press PAGE [ ] to display the last page (in this case, Page 3).

Rotate the F1 (SELECT) knob to select FAVORITE WRITE.

The FAV WRITE screen appears.

Rotate the F2 (SELECT) knob to select the write destination.

“Changing Tone Settings”

(p.

“NOW WRITING...” is displayed as the patch is being saved,

and then the Play screen returns to the display.

Saving tones with this process undoes the link between the

patch and the Favorite Settings. Afterwards, any changes to

tones with Favorite Settings used earlier will not be reflected in

the tone for this patch.

At this point, you can press [F3] (SEARCH) to display a

list of patches using the write-destination Favorite

Settings. For more detailed information, refer to

“Searching for Patches That Use the Same Favorite

Settings”

Press [F6] (WRITE) to save the settings.

“NOW WRITING...” is displayed as the Favorite Settings are

being saved, and the number and name of the currently selected

Favorite Settings are displayed.

Press [EXIT] several times to return to the Play

(p. 89).

screen.

This procedure only saves information to the Favorite Settings.

Nothing is saved to the patches. To save parameters to patches,

carry out the Write procedure. (p. 34)

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Naming Favorite Settings (FAVORITE NAME)

When storing Favorite Settings, you can also give the settings names.

Carry out the following procedure in Step 2 of

Favorite Settings”

Press [F5] (NAME).

The Name edit screen appears.

Press PAGE [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to

(p. 88).

the position with the character you want to enter.

Select the character with the PATCH/VALUE dial.

As you continue to rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial, the

character guide automatically switches from uppercase letters

to lowercase letters, numerals, and symbols.

You can carry out the following operations by pressing [F1]–

[F5].

“Saving to the

Searching for Patches That Use the Same Favorite Settings

Here is an example using the compressor effect.

Press [FX].

Press PAGE [ ] to go to Page 1.

Press [F1] (COMP).

The number and name of the currently selected Favorite

Settings are displayed.

If not using the Favorite Settings, proceed to Step 4.

Press [F6] (EDIT).

Buttons

[F1] (INSERT)

[F2] (DELETE)

[F3] (SPACE)

[F4] (A0!)

[F5] (A<=>a)

Repeat Steps 2 and 3 to complete the Favorite

Functions

Inserts a blank space at the cursor position.

Deletes the character and shifts the following characters to the left.

Enters a blank space at the cursor position.

Switches between letters, numerals, and symbols.

Switches between uppercase and lowercase letters.

Setting name.

When you have finished editing the name, press [EXIT].

The Favorite Settings save screen returns to the display.

Press [F6] (WRITE); the settings are saved.

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

Press PAGE [ ] to display the last page (in this case, Page 3).

Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to select FAVORITE WRITE.

The FAV WRITE screen appears.

Rotate F2 (SELECT) to select the Favorite Settings you want to search for.

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Other Functions

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

V-LINK Compatible Device

(EDIROL P-10, MD-P1 or CG-8 etc.)

Press [F3] (SEARCH).

A list of patches using the selected Favorite Setting is displayed.

You can scroll through the list using [F3] and [F4] or the F3 and F4 knobs.

Controlling Video Images with Your Bass (V-LINK)

The VB-99 features the V-LINK function.

With the VB-99 connected to another V-LINK compatible device,

you can use your bass performance to control playback of video

images.

What is V-LINK?

10.

Press [F5] (EXIT).

The list disappears from the screen.

11.

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

V-LINK is a function that synchronizes the performance of music

and video.

Connecting V-LINK compatible devices to each other via MIDI

makes it simple to enjoy using a variety of video effects linked with

what you express in your performances.

For example, combining the VB-99 with the EDIROL motion dive

.tokyo performance package lets you do the following.

• Set the required information for motion dive .tokyo performance package performances.

• Switch motion dive .tokyo performance package video images (palettes/clips) and control the video brightness and hue.

• Enjoy synchronized performances of music and video.

Be sure also to read the owner’s manual for the

connected V-LINK compatible device.

Connecting the V-LINK Device

Connect the VB-99’s MIDI OUT connector to the V-LINK compatible

device.

When connecting these and other devices, turn down the

volume completely on all the devices and turn off their power

before connecting to prevent malfunction and damage to

speakers and other equipment.

Switching V-LINK On and Off

Connect the VB-99’s MIDI OUT connector to the V-LINK compatible device.

Turn on the power to the device to start it up.

Press [V-LINK].

V-LINK is switched on, and [V-LINK] lights up.

The function set in

allowing you to control the video images and have them linked

with the performance on the VB-99.

“Setting V-LINK”

(p. 91) is enabled,

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Press [F1] (CLIP).

The PATCH/CLIP screen appears.

Use [F1] and [F2] or the F1 or F2 knobs to set the palette and clip for V-LINK Channel A; set the palette and clip for V-LINK Channel B with [F4] and [F5] or the F4 or F5 knobs.

Even with V-LINK on, the VB-99 operates as normal.

Depending on the settings in

signals may not be output from MIDI OUT. In such

cases, V-LINK signals are not output either.

Press [V-LINK] once more.

The [V-LINK] light goes off, and the V-LINK function is

switched off.

When the V-LINK function is switched off, all V-LINK-

related MIDI messages are no longer output.

“MIDI ROUTING”

(p. 53),

Setting V-LINK

Making the Palette and Clip Settings (PALETTE/CLIP)

This sets the Program Change messages transmitted when patches

are switched.

You can set different Program Changes in Channel A and Channel B.

Press [SYSTEM].

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

Parameter

PALETTE

CLIP OFF, 1–32 Changing the

Available Setting

OFF, 1–32 Changing the

V-LINK Function

palette.

clip.

Transmitted MIDI Messages

CC00 (Bank Select): 00H–1FH

Program Change: 00H–1FH

Setting the String Channel (STRING CH)

This setting determines which of the V-LINK device’s channels is

used in controlling the note messages output when a string is

played. This can be set individually for each string.

Follow Steps 1–3 in “Making the Palette and Clip Settings (PALETTE/CLIP)” (p. 91) to display the V-LINK screen.

Press [F4] (STR CH) to select the channel to be controlled with each string.

STRING CH HiC, 1–4th, LowB

OFF

A CH Channel A of the V-LINK compatible device is

B CH Channel B of the V-LINK compatible device is

C CH MIDI Note plug-in is controlled.

Explanation

No channel is controlled.

controlled.

Chapter 7

Press [F4] (V-LINK).

The V-LINK screen appears.

Some V-LINK compatible models such as the EDIROL

DV-7PR allow only Channel A to be used.

Note messages output with the V-LINK function are

affected by the parameters set in

Synthesizer Sound Module (BASS TO MIDI)”

well as the STRING CH settings.

“Playing an External

(p. 58) as

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Setting the Assign (ASSIGN1–2)

These settings are necessary for controlling video using the bass’s

performance data and messages from the VB-99’s controllers.

You can make up to two types of settings.

Follow Steps 1–3 in “Making the Palette and Clip Settings (PALETTE/CLIP)” (p. 91) to display the V-LINK screen.

Press [F2] (ASGN1) or [F3] (ASGN2) to select Assign 1 or Assign 2.

Use [F1] (SELECT) or the F1 knob to set the source to be used in operating the target.

Use [F2] (SELECT) or the F2 knob to set the target.

For more on the source and target parameters, refer to

PATCH”

(p. 153).

Rotate the F3 knob to set the minimum value

“V-LINK

for the TARGET parameter’s control range.

Rotate the F4 knob to set the maximum value for the TARGET parameter’s control range.

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

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

Using the VB-99 on a Stand

928, 929

• To prevent the PDS-10 stand from falling, use the attached cable ties to wind all cables around the stand, as shown in the figure below.

• Use the screws (M5 x 10) included with the VB-99 to attach the PDS-10 mounting plate. Use of other screws may damage the device internally or cause the unit to be inadequately secured.

• When turning the unit over, place some newspapers, magazines, or other such material under the four corners or at both ends to prevent damage to the buttons, dials, and other controls. Also, try to orient the unit so no buttons or controls are damaged.

• When turning the unit upside-down, handle with care to avoid dropping it, or allowing it to fall or tip over.

• When removing the screws, be sure to keep them out of the reach of children to prevent smaller children from accidentally swallowing them.

• Take care not to allow hands and fingers to become pinched when attaching and removing the units.

Cable tie

You can use the VB-99 while attached to a PDS-10 stand (optional).

Turn the VB-99 over and remove the screws from the bottom panel.

Attach the mounting plate as shown in the figure, using the screws removed in Step 1 or the knob nuts included with the kit.

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Attach the VB-99 to the stand.

For instructions on how to assemble the PDS-10 and

attach the mounting plate, refer to the Owner’s Manual

that came with the PDS-10.

Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Using the VB-99 Mounted in a Rack

By employing the separately available RAD-99 rack mount adaptor ,

you can use the VB-99 in a rack-mounted configuration.

Turn the VB-99 over and remove the screws from the bottom panel.

Attach the RAD-99 as shown in the figure, using the screws removed in Step 1 or the knob nuts included with the kit.

928, 929

• Use the screws (M5 x 10) included with the VB-99 to attach the RAD-99. Use of other screws may damage the device internally or cause the unit to be inadequately secured.

• When turning the unit upside-down, handle with care to avoid dropping it, or allowing it to fall or tip over.

• When removing the screws, be sure to keep them out of the reach of children to prevent smaller children from accidentally swallowing them.

• Take care not to allow hands and fingers to become pinched when attaching and removing the units.

Mount the VB-99 in the rack.

Use screws (in four places) to securely affix the unit to the rack.

* Use the screws included with the rack.

For instructions on how to assemble the RAD-99 and

adjust the angle of attachment, refer to the RAD-99

Owner’s Manual.

Restoring the VB-99 to its Original Factory Condition (FACTORY RESET)

Press [SYSTEM].

Press PAGE [ ] to display Page 3.

Press [F2] (F.RST).

The FACTORY RESET screen appears.

Chapter 7 Other Functions

Select the parameters you want to restore to the original factory condition.

vailable Settings

ALL

SYSTEM

GK SETTING

GLOBAL

PATCH

FAVORITE SETTING

Press [F6] (EXEC).

To execute Factory Reset, press [WRITE].

* To cancel Factory Reset, press [EXIT].

Explanation

All data

System parameters

Content of GK settings

Content of settings for the Global function

Content of settings for PATCH 001–200

Content of settings for FAVORITE SETTINGS 01–10 for all effects

Chapter 7

When Factory Reset is completed, the display returns to the

Play screen.

Chapter 8 Parameters Guide

In this chapter you’ll find detailed descriptions for each of the VB-99’s operational parameters.

The trademarks listed in this document are trademarks of their respective owners, which are separate companies from Roland. Those companies are not affiliated with Roland and have not licensed or authorized Roland’s VB-99. Their marks are used solely to identify the equipment whose sound is simulated by Roland’s VB-99.

COSM BASS

The COSM BASS section provides a rich array of settings that allow you to produce an enormous variety of instrument tones. In addition to traditional bass parameters—such as settings for the pickup, body, and string tuning—you can also produce tones not normally available from a bass guitar, including synthesizer and electric guitar sounds.

Parameter/ Range

Explanation

COSM BASS SW

Turns the COSM bass on/off.

OFF Normal pickup sound and COSM bass are not played.

ON COSM bass is played.

NORMAL PU Normal pickup sound is played.

MODLNG TYPE (Modeling Type)

E.BASS

AC BASS This models an acoustic bass.

SYNTH This produces synthesizer sound.

E. GTR This converts a bass guitar sound to an electric guitar sound.

This models an electric bass.

E. BASS TYPE (Electric Bass Type)/SYNTH TYPE (Synthesizer Type)/E. GTR TYPE (Electric Guitar Type)

Refer to Modeling Type List

Select the COSM bass from each modeling type.

* The parameters that can be set will depend on the type. For details on the parameters, refer to the corresponding item.

COSM bass configuration

OFF

NORMAL

To the FX, COSM AMP

DIVIDED PU

E.BASS/

AC BASS/

SYNTH/

E.GTR

PITCH

SHIFT

MIX LEVEL/

NORMAL PU

COSM BASS

Modeling Type List

E. BASS TYPE (Electric Bass Type)

Parameter/ Range

VINT JB

JB This models a Fender Jazz Bass from the late seventies or later.

VINT PB This models a Fender Precision Bass from the early sixties.

PB This models a Fender Precision Bass from the late seventies or later.

M-MAN This models a Music Man StingRay Bass from the seventies.

RICK This models a Rickenbacker 4001.

T-BIRD This models a Gibson Thunderbird.

ACTIVE This models a modern bass equipped with an active pickup.

VIOLIN This models a Höfner Violin Bass.

VARI This allows you to use up to two pickups of your choice, selecting from double-coil, single-coil and piezo. If you use

Explanation

This models a Fender Jazz Bass from the sixties.

double-coil or single-coil type pickups, you may freely adjust the location of the pickups.

COSM BASS Chapter 8 Parameters Guide

SYNTH TYPE (Synthesizer Type)

Parameter/ Range

ANALOG GR

WAVE SYNTH This algorithm creates synth sounds by directly processing the string signal from the divided pickup. It allows a natural

OSC SYNTH This detects the pitch and attack information in the input bass sound and outputs signals produced by the built-in os-

FILTER This instrument is like a bass whose sound is passed through a filter.

BOWED This represents stringed musical instruments played with a bow.

PIPE This produces sounds like a soft woodwind lead instrument.

CRYSTL (Crystal) This is an instrument sound with a metallic luster.

ORGAN

BRASS This instrument detects the pitch of the bass guitar and creates a synthesizer sound.

Explanation

This is the sound of a vintage analog polyphonic bass guitar synthesizer. Equipped with Hexa VCO and VCF (variable cutoff-frequency filter) that generates sawtooth waves independently for each of the six strings, this sound accommodates hexa-distortion and pitch shifting, and enables you to enjoy analogsynthesizer tones while producing all the nuances of live bass guitar play.

feeling of playability.

cillator.

This is a long tone instrument suitable for playing solo parts or slow songs. Like an organ, you should balance out the volume levels for the three parameters (FEET 16, 8, 4) to create just the sound you’re after.

E.GTR TYPE (Electric Guitar Type)

Parameter/ Range

ST (Stratocaster) The sound of a Fender Stratocaster.

LP (Les Paul) The sound of a Gibson Les Paul Standard.

Explanation

Simulates the installation of three single-coil pickups (passive type).

Simulates the installation of two humbucking pickups (passive type).

Chapter 8

Chapter 8 Parameters Guide COSM BASS

E.BASS (

Parameters for the various electric bass models.

Electric

Bass)

VINT JB/JB/T-BIRD

Parameter/ Range

MASTER VOL (Master Volume)

0–100

REAR VOL (Rear Volume)

0–100

FRONT VOL (Front Volume)

0–100

TONE

0–100

Explanation

Sets the overall bass volume level. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

Sets the volume of the rear pickup. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

Sets the volume of the front pickup. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

Adjusts the tone.

VINT PB/PB

Parameter/ Range

VOL (Volume)

0–100 Sets the volume. With a setting of 0, there

TONE

0–100 Adjusts the tone.

Explanation

will be no sound.

M-MAN

Parameter/ Range

VOL (Volume)

0–100

TREBLE

-50–+50 Adjusts the tone for the high frequency

BASS

-50–+50 Adjusts the tone for the low frequency

Explanation

Sets the volume. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

range.

RICK

Parameter/ Range

MASTER VOL (Master Volume)

0–100

REAR VOL (Rear Volume)

0–100

FRONT VOL (Front Volume)

0–100

REAR TONE (Rear Tone)

0–100

FRONT TONE (Front Tone)

0–100

PU SEL (Pickup Select)

REAR

R+F Use both rear and front pickups.

FRONT Use the front pickup.

Explanation

Sets the overall bass volume level. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

Sets the volume of the rear pickup. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

Sets the volume of the front pickup. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

Adjusts the tone of the rear pickup.

Adjusts the tone of the front pickup.

Use the rear pickup.

ACTIVE

Parameter/ Range

MASTER VOL (Master Volume)

0–100 Sets the overall bass volume level. With a

REAR VOL (Rear Volume)

0–100 Sets the volume of the rear pickup. With a

FRONT VOL (Front Volume)

0–100

TREBLE

0–100 Adjusts the tone for the high frequency

BASS

0–100 Adjusts the tone for the low frequency

Explanation

setting of 0, there will be no sound.

Sets the volume of the front pickup. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

range.

COSM BASS Chapter 8 Parameters Guide

VIOLIN

Parameter/ Range

MASTER VOL (Master Volume)

0–100

REAR VOL (Rear Volume)

0–100

FRONT VOL (Front Volume)

0–100

TREBLE ON

OFF, ON

BASS ON

OFF, ON

RHYTHM/SOLO

RHYTHM

SOLO The volume will be set to 100.

Explanation

Sets the overall bass volume level. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

Sets the volume of the rear pickup. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

Sets the volume of the front pickup. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

Switches the rear pickup on/off.

Switches the front pickup on/off.

The volume will be set to 50.

VARI

Parameter/ Range

CTL TYPE (Control Type)

2V2T Two volume and two tone controllers.

2V1T Two volume and one tone controller.

BAL One balance and one tone controller.

2BAND Bass and treble controllers.

MASTER VOL (Master Volume) *1

0–100 Sets the overall bass volume level. With a

VOL (Volume) *2

0–100 Sets the overall bass volume level. With a

REAR VOL (Rear Volume) *1

0–100 Sets the volume of the rear pickup. With a

FRONT VOL (Front Volume) *1

0–100

BAL (Balance) *2

R100:0F–R0:100F Adjusts the volume balance of the rear pick-

REAR TONE *3

-50–+50 Adjusts the tone of the rear pickup.

FRONT TONE *3

-50–+50 Adjusts the tone of the front pickup.

TONE *4

-50–+50 Adjusts the tone of the pickup.

TREBLE *5

-50–+50 Adjusts the tone for the high frequency

Explanation

setting of 0, there will be no sound.

Sets the volume of the front pickup. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

up and front pickup.

range.

Parameter/ Range

Explanation

BASS *5

-50–+50

Adjusts the tone for the low frequency range.

REAR PU (Rear Pickup), FRONT PU (Front Pickup)

TYPE

Specify the type of pickup.

SINGLE A single-coil pickup.

DOUBLE A double-coil pickup.

PIEZO A piezo pickup.

POS (Position)

5–450mm

Specifies the location of the pickup in terms of the distance from the bridge. Higher settings will simulate a greater distance between the pickup and bridge.

* It is not possible to set the position if

“PIEZO” is selected as the pickup type.

PHASE

Specify the phase of the pickup when mixing the front and rear pickups.

IN The pickup will be mixed in normal phase.

OUT The pickup will be mixed in reverse phase.

OFFSET

-445–+445mm Finely adjust the rear pickup position for each string.

* It is not possible to set the offset if “PIEZO”

is selected as the pickup type.

*1 Setting available with CTL TYPE set to 2V2T or 2V1T.

*2 Setting available with CTL TYPE set to BAL or 2BAND.

*3 Setting available with CTL TYPE set to 2V2T.

*4 Setting available with CTL TYPE set to 2V1T or BAL.

*5 Setting available with CTL TYPE set to 2BAND.

Chapter 8

Chapter 8 Parameters Guide COSM BASS

AC BASS (Acoustic Bass)

Parameters for the acoustic bass model.

Parameter/ Range

LEVEL

0–100

BODY

0–100

RESO (Resonance)

0–100 Adjusts the body resonance. The resonance

SIZE

-50–+50 Specifies the size of the body. This modifies

ATTACK

0–100

BOTTOM

0–100

BUZZ SENS (Buzz Sensitivity)

0–100

DECAY

0–100

Explanation

Adjusts the volume. With a setting of 0, there will be no sound.

This sets the volume level of the resonant sound produced by the panels and cavity (the body resonation).

* The body resonance is monophonic. This

means that if this Body parameter is set to 100, the panning of each string will have less effect.

increases as the value is raised.

the resonant frequency to simulate changes in body size. A setting of 0 will produce a normal resonance.

This sets the intensity of the attack when the strings are fingered. The higher the value you set, the greater the intensity of the sound produced when the strings are played. The attack of the body sound will increase as well.

This sets the volume level of string vibration.

This sets the sensitivity for the distinctive harmonics of an acoustic bass. Adjust this to match the velocity of fingering.

This sets the decay of the string vibration.

SYNTH (Synthesizer)

Parameters for the synthesizer sound.

ANALOG GR

Parameter/ Range

MASTER LEVEL

0–100

MODE

This setting determines whether the HEXA-VCO (sawtooth wave) or the HEXA-DISTORTION (rectangular wave) is played, or if both are played.

VCO The HEXA-VCO sound is played.

V+D The HEXA-VCO and HEXA-DISTORTION

DIST The HEXA-DISTORTION sound is played.

COMP (Compression)

OFF, ON

CUTOFF FREQ (Cutoff Frequency)

0–100

RESO (Resonance)

0–100

ENV MOD (Envelope Modulation)

This automatically changes the VCF cutoff frequency according to the amplitude of the string vibration. This allows you to change the tone with a wah-like effect each time you pick a string.

OFF

ON This causes the VCF cutoff frequency to

Explanation

Sets the volume.

sounds are played simultaneously.

When this is set to ON, the HEXA-VCO’s decay time is extended.

When ENV MOD SW is set to ON, the VCF (variable frequency filter) decay time is also extended

* The HEXA-DISTORTION decay time is not

extended.

Adjusts the cutoff frequency, setting the brightness (hardness) of the sound. The sound gets brighter (harder) as the value is raised.

Adjusts the resonance (distinctiveness of the sound). As the value is increased, sounds in the frequency range near the cutoff frequency are boosted, making the sound more distinctive and unique.

Envelope modulation is not used.

change from a high to low frequency each time the string is picked. This produces a wah-like effect, with the sound going from low frequencies to high.

100

Setting the cutoff frequency to an extremely high value makes the effect difficult to discern.

INV As opposed to the ON setting, this allows

you to have the VCF cutoff frequency change from a low to high frequency each time the string is picked. This produces a reverse wah-like effect, with the sound going from high frequencies to low.

Setting the cutoff frequency to a relatively high value makes the effect easier to discern.

Roland 04672434, VB-99 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

IMPORTANT NOTES

Main Features

Names of Things and What They Do

Top Panel

Rear Panel

Signal Flow

Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds

Installing the Divided Pickup

Before Connecting

Making the Connections

Turning On the Power

About the Play Screen

About the Information in the Display (Basic Operation)

Adjusting the Volume

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

Inputting the Divided Pickup Settings (GK Settings)

Tuning the Bass (TUNER)

Switching Tones (Patch)

About the Patch Numbers

Switching with the PATCH/ VALUE Dial

Turning Off the Power

Chapter 2 Creating Sounds

Setting the COSM BASS Tone

One-touch Output of the Bass Direct Sound (BASS DIRECT)

Setting the COSM AMP Tone

Setting the Effects

POLY FX (Poly Effect)

FX (Effects)

Rearranging the Effect and Amp Connection Sequence (CHAIN)

Specifying the tempo and key of the song to be played

Setting the Tempo

Setting the Key

Mixing the Normal Pickup Sound with the GK Input

Setting the Volume Balance

Setting the Connection Locations for COSM Bass/Normal Pickup Sound

Mixing Channels A and B Together (MIXER)

Setting the Volume and Panning for Each Channel

Setting the Mix Balance

Setting the Delay and Reverb (DELAY/REVERB)

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

Setting the Overall Patch Volume Level (V-BASS LEVEL)

Adjusting the Overall Patch Tone (TOTAL EQ)

Setting the Output Signal and Level (OUTPUT)

Naming a Patch (PATCH NAME)

Saving a Patch (WRITE)

Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)

Naming GK Settings (GK NAME)

Inputting the Divided Pickup Settings

Selecting the Settings

Selecting the Divided Pickup Type (GK PU TYPE)

Inputting the Bass’s Scale (BASS SCALE)

Selecting the Position of the Divided Pickup (GK PU POS)

Matching the Divided Pickup and Normal Pickup Phase (GK PU PHASE)

Setting the Direction for the Installed Divided Pickup (GK PU DIRECTION)

Setting the DOWN/S1, UP/S2 Switch Arrangement (S1, S2 POS)

Adjusting the Sensitivity for Each String (SENS)

Determining the Function of the GK Volume Control and DOWN/ S1, UP/S2 Switches (GK FUNC)

Using Different Bass Settings in Each Patch (SET MODE)

Adjusting the Overall Tone According to the Environment (GLOBAL/OUTPUT SELECT)

Selecting the Settings

Naming the Settings

Setting the Types of Connected Devices (OUTPUT SELECT)

Adjusting the Overall Tone (GLOBAL EQ)

Controlling the Overall Effect of the Noise Suppressor (Total NS)

Controlling the Overall Reverb Level (Total REVERB)

Setting the GK VOLUME Control and Switch and the Pedal Function (SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN)

Setting the Sounds Output from SUB OUT (SUB OUT LEVEL)

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

Limiting the Patches That Can Be Switched (PATCH EXTENT)

Adjusting the Screen’s Contrast

Setting the Output Signal and Level (SYSTEM OUTPUT)

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

Connecting with the RRC2 IN Connector

Setting the Operation When Patches Are Switched

Activating the VB-99’s Tuner from the FC-300 (QUICK TUNER)