Roland A-88 User Manual

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Owner’s Manual

What is MIDI?

MIDI is an internationally recognized standard for exchanging performance information between electronic musical instruments and computers.

For example, in the illustration below, a MIDI signal meaning “the ‘C’ key on the MIDI keyboard was pressed” passes through the A-88 and is received by the computer’s software sound module, and then the software sound module plays the note “C.”

MIDI signal

Information meaning “the ‘C’ key was pressed”

“C” is played

Software sound module

“C” key is pressed

In this way, MIDI is used to send performance information to other instruments; for example “the ‘C’ key was pressed with a certain amount of force,”“the instrument was changed to a violin sound,”“the volume was raised/lowered,”“the pitch was raised/lowered,” etc. In other words, MIDI is the “language of musical instruments.”

MIDI signals are merely performance instructions, therefore a MIDI sound module, such as a software sound module, is required to produce sound.

All software sound modules and DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) software support MIDI.

MEMO

DAW software is a term that refers to music production software, such as SONAR.

NOTE

Do not connect the A-88 to the computer until the driver has been installed (p. 17).

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled:”USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (p. 3) and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (p. 6). These sections provide important information concerning the proper operation of the unit. Additionally, in order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp of every feature provided by your new unit, Owner’s Manual should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.

2

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

AboutWARNING and CAUTION Notices

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.

About the Symbols

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

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

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

ALWAYS OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING

WARNING

Do not disassemble or modify by yourself

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

Do not repair or replace parts by yourself

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.

Do not use or store in the following types of locations

• Subject to temperature extremes (e.g.,

direct sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating duct, on top of heatgenerating 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.

WARNING

Use only stand that is recommended

This unit should be used only with a stand that is recommended by Roland.

Do not place in an unstable location

When using the unit with a rack or stand recommended by Roland, the rack or stand must be carefully placed so it is level and sure to remain stable. If not using a rack or 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.

Precautions regarding placement of this unit on a stand

Be sure to follow the instructions in the Owner’s Manual carefully when placing this unit on a stand (p. 9).

If it is not set up properly, you risk creating an unstable situation which could lead to the unit falling or the stand toppling, and may result in injury.

3

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

WARNING

WARNING

Use only the supplied AC adaptor and the correct voltage

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.

Use only the included power cord

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

Do not bend the power cord or place heavy objects on it

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!

Don’t allow foreign objects or liquids to enter unit; never place containers with liquid on unit

Do not place containers containing liquid on this product. Never allow foreign objects (e.g., flammable objects, coins, wires) or liquids (e.g., water or juice) to enter this product. Doing so may cause short circuits, faulty operation, or other malfunctions.

Adults must provide supervision in places where children are present

When using the unit in locations where children are present, be careful so no mishandling of the unit can take place. An adult should always be on hand to provide supervision and guidance.

Do not drop or subject to strong impact

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

Turn off the unit if an abnormality or malfunction occurs

Immediately turn the unit 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; or

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.

Do not share an outlet with an unreasonable number of other devices

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.

Do not use overseas

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.

Do not use a CD-ROM in an audio CD player or DVD player

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.

4

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

CAUTION

Place in a well ventilated location

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

Use only the specified stand (s)

This unit is designed to be used in combination with specific stands (KS-12, KS-18Z) manufactured by Roland. If used in combination with other stands, you risk sustaining injuries as the result of this product dropping down or toppling over due to a lack of stability.

Evaluate safety issues before using stands

Even if you observe the cautions given in the owner’s manual, certain types of handling may allow this product to fall from the stand, or cause the stand to overturn. Please be mindful of any safety issues before using this product.

Grasp the plug when connecting or disconnecting the AC adaptor

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

Periodically clean the AC adaptor’s plug

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.

Manage cables for safety

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.

CAUTION

Avoid climbing on top of the unit, or placing heavy objects on it

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

Do not connect or disconnect the AC adaptor with wet hands

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

Disconnect everything before moving the unit

Before moving the unit, disconnect the AC adaptor and all cords coming from external devices.

Unplug the AC adaptor from the outlet before cleaning

Before cleaning the unit, turn it off and unplug the AC adaptor from the outlet (p. 16).

If there is a possibility of lightning strike, disconnect the AC adaptor from the outlet

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

5

IMPORTANT NOTES

Power Supply

Do not connect this unit to same electrical outlet that is being used by an electrical appliance that is controlled by an inverter or a motor (such as a refrigerator, washing machine, microwave oven, or air conditioner). 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.

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

To prevent malfunction and equipment failure, always make sure to turn off the power on all your equipment before you make any connections.

When not connected to a computer, the A-88 will automatically be switched off four hours after you stop playing or operating it (if the factory settings have been unmodified). If you don’t want the unit to turn off automatically, change the “AUTO OFF” setting to “OFF” as described on p. 42.

Placement

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

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.

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. Also, do not allow lighting devices that normally are used while their light source is very close to the unit (such as a piano light), or powerful spotlights to shine upon the same area of the unit for extended periods of time. Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.

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.

Do not allow rubber, vinyl, or similar materials to remain on this unit for long periods of time. Such objects can discolor or otherwise harmfully affect the finish.

Do not allow objects to remain on top of the keyboard. This can be the cause of malfunction, such as keys ceasing to produce sound.

Do not paste stickers, decals, or the like to this instrument. Peeling such matter off the instrument may damage the exterior finish.

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.

Do not put anything that contains water on this unit. Also, avoid the use of insecticides, perfumes, alcohol, nail polish, spray cans, etc., near the unit. Swiftly wipe away any liquid that spills on the unit using a dry, soft cloth.

Maintenance

To clean the unit, use a dry, soft cloth; or one that is slightly dampened. Try to wipe the entire

surface using an equal amount of strength moving the cloth. Rubbing too hard in the same area can damage the finish.

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

Repairs and Data

Please be aware that all data contained in this unit’s memory may be initialized to the factory settings when it is sent for repairs.

6

IMPORTANT NOTES

Additional Precautions

Roland assumes no liability concerning such loss of data, nor any obligation to recover it.

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.

When 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.

To avoid disturbing others nearby, try to keep the unit’s volume at reasonable levels.

The sound of keys being struck and vibrations produced by playing an instrument can be transmitted through a floor or wall to an unexpected extent. Please take care not to cause annoyance to others nearby.

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.

Use only the specified expression pedal (EV-5, EV-7; sold separately). By connecting any other expression pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the unit.

The usable range of D-BEAM controller will become extremely small when used under strong direct sunlight. Please be aware of this when using the D-BEAM controller outside.

Handling CDs / DVDs

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

Copyrights/Licences/Trademarks

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

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

Microsoft product screen shot(s) reprinted with permission from Microsoft Corporation.

Roland and SuperNATURAL are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Roland Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

Cakewalk and SONAR are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Cakewalk, Inc. or Roland Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

Company names and product names appearing in this document are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective owners.

Copyright © 2012 ROLAND CORPORATION

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

7

About the Ivory Feel Keyboard

Features of an ivory feel keyboard

Traditional piano keys are made from the best materials-ivory (for white keys) and ebony (for black keys). The Ivory Feel keyboard uses the latest in technology to reproduce the touch and feel of these materials.

An Ivory Feel keyboard offers the following features.

We’re sure you’ll develop a fondness for the distinctive texture of these keys, which feels better the more you play them.

Surfaces incorporate stripes of moisture-absorbing material for improved touch and playability.

The keys feature subtle gloss and understated coloring, enhancing the look and elegance.

The white keys are finished with a slight yellowish tinge for the look of real ivory.

Handling

Do not write on the keyboard with any pen or other implement, and do not stamp or place any marking on the instrument. Ink will seep into the surface lines and become unremovable.

Do not affix stickers on the keyboard. You may be unable to remove stickers that use strong adhesives, and the adhesive may cause discoloration.

Care and maintenance

Please note the following points. Failure to do so may result in scratches on the surface finish, damaged gloss, or other discoloration or deformation.

To remove dirt, use a soft cloth.

Using a moistened and tightly wrung-out cloth, gently wipe off any dirt. Do not rub the surface vigorously.

To remove stubborn dirt, use a commercially available keyboard cleaner that does not contain abrasives.

Start by wiping lightly. If the dirt does not come off, wipe using gradually increasing amounts of pressure while taking care not to scratch the keys.

Do not use benzene, paint thinner, or alcohol on the instrument.

8

Placing the A-88 on a Stand

If you want to place the A-88 on a stand, use the Roland KS-12 or KS-18Z. Place the A-88 on the stand as follows.

Be careful not to pinch your fingers when setting up the stand.

KS-12

Adjust the width of the stand so that the rubber feet on the keyboard side of the bottom of the keyboard fit into the holes provided for the rubber

Top view

KS-18Z

Adjust the width of the stand so that the rubber feet of the A-88 straddle the stand

Top view

Adjust so that the height does not exceed 1 meter (Adjust the stand to a level no higher than the fourth level from the bottom)

Align the front of the A-88 with the front of the stand

9

Contents

USING THE UNIT SAFELY.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3

IMPORTANT NOTES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6

About the Ivory Feel Keyboard.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..8

Placing the A-88 on a Stand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Quick Page Reference Table. . . . . . . . 11

Contents of the Package. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Panel Descriptions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Rear Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Driver Installation.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Verify That You Can Hear Sound. . . . . . 23

Checking with a SONAR Soft

Synths (Windows). . . . . . . . . 23 Checking in GarageBand (Mac OS X). 24 MIDI Signal Flow . . . . . . . . . . 25

About the Operating Modes.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Switching the Operating Mode. . . . . . 26 PLAY Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 FUNCTION Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 SuperNATURAL Mode. . . . . . . . . . 28 MIDI Visual Control Mode. . . . . . . . . 29

Layering Two Parts.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Two Parts (LOWER, UPPER). . . . . . . . 30 Layering Two Sounds (DUAL). . . . . . . 31

Playing Different Sounds with the Right and Left Hands (SPLIT) . . . . . . . . . . 31

Changing the Location at Which

the Keyboard Is Divided (Split Point). 31

Performing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Setting the MIDI Transmit Channel

(MIDI CHANNEL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Switching Sounds. . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Shifting the Pitch of the Keyboard . . . . 34

Using the Lever to Modify the Sound . . . 35 Using the D-BEAM to Modify the Sound. . 36 Using the Knobs to Modify the Sound. . . 37 Using the Pedals to Modify the Sound . . 38 Using Aftertouch to Modify the Sound. . 39 Halting Stuck Notes (PANIC). . . . . . . 39

Changing the A-88 Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Changing the Velocity Curve

(VELO CURVE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Specifying the Keyboard Velocity Value (KEY VELO). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Making the Power Automatically Turn

Off After a Time (Auto Off). . . . . . . . 42

Switching the Function of the [C2] Knob in SuperNATURAL Mode

(SN SETTING). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Assigning Functions to the Knobs,

Buttons, and Jacks. . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Assigning a Program Change Message (PRGM CHANGE). . . . . 43

Assigning Aftertouch. . . . . . . . 43

Assigning a Control Change

Number (CC#). . . . . . . . . . . 44

Changing the Direction of Value Increases for the Knobs, D-BEAM

Controller, and Pedals (CTRL DIR) . . . . . 46

Selecting the Dedicated Driver or the Generic Driver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Returning the Pedal Jacks Assignments

to the Factory Settings . . . . . . . . . . 47

Restoring the Factory Settings

(FACT RESET). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Troubleshooting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Problems When Installing the Driver. . . 48 Problems When Using the Unit . . . . . . 49

Changing Computer Settings to Avoid Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Driver Signing Options Setting (Windows XP). . . . . . . . . . . 52

Power Management Settings. . . . 52

10

Contents

Reinstalling the Driver. . . . . . . . . . 54 Deleting the Driver. . . . . . . . . 54 Lightening the MIDI Load (Windows) . . . 55

Main Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

MIDI Implementation Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Index.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Quick Page Reference Table

 

Switching the operating mode

p. 26

 

(PLAY/FUNCTION/SuperNATURAL/MIDI Visual Control)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Layering Two Parts (DUAL, SPLIT)

p. 30

 

 

 

 

Setting the MIDI transmit channel (MIDI CHANNEL)

p. 32

 

 

 

 

Switching sounds ([S1][S2] knobs)

p. 32

 

 

 

 

Performing

 

Octave Shift, Transpose

p. 34

Performing

Pitch Bend, Modulation

p. 35

 

D-BEAM

p. 36

 

[C1][C2] knobs

p. 37

 

Pedal

p. 38

 

Aftertouch

p. 39

 

 

 

 

Halting stuck notes

p. 39

 

 

 

 

Performing with a SuperNATURAL sound module

p. 28

 

 

 

 

Controlling MIDI Visual Control-compatible video equipment

p. 29

 

 

 

 

Changing the velocity curve (VELO CURVE)

p. 41

 

 

 

 

Specifying the keyboard velocity value (KEY VELO)

p. 41

 

 

 

 

Making the Power Automatically Turn Off After a Time (Auto Off)

p. 42

 

 

 

 

Assigning functions to the knobs, buttons, and jacks

p. 43

 

 

 

Changing the A-88’s

Switching the function of the [C2] knob in SuperNATURAL mode (SN

p. 42

SETTING)

Settings

 

 

 

Changing the direction of value increases for the knobs, D-BEAM controller,

p. 46

 

 

buttons, and pedals (CTRL DIR)

 

 

 

Selecting the dedicated driver or the generic driver

p. 46

 

 

 

 

Returning the pedal jack assignments to the factory settings

p. 47

 

 

 

 

Restoring the factory settings (FACT RESET)

p. 47

 

 

 

11

How to read the procedural explanations

Press the [FUNCTION] button.

Press the key that has “PRGM

 

CHANGE” printed above it.

 

0–9

Press the keys that have “NUMERIC ENTRY” printed above them.

Press the key that has “ENTER” printed above it.

Using NUMERIC ENTRY to enter a value

0–9

Value 0–127

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NUMERIC ENTRY keys pressed in

 

This value is

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

this order

 

entered

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6, 4, ENTER

 

64

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1, 2, 7, ENTER

 

127

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1, 2, 8, ENTER

 

28

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*If you specified a value that’s outside the acceptable range, the valid value that had been entered before you pressed ENTER will be used.

Explanation of the icons

Icon

Explanation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rotate the [C1] or [C2] knob.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step on the pedal for which you want to make settings (either DAMPER, FC2, or

 

 

 

 

 

 

FC1).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12

Contents of the Package

After you open the package, please check that all items are present. (If any accessories are missing, please contact the place of purchase.)

A-88

AC Adaptor

This is the dedicated AC adaptor for the A-88.

(includes an AC cord)

USB cable

Please use only the included AC adaptor, USB cable and damper pedal. If you require a replacement due to loss or damage, please contact the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.

Use this cable to connect the A-88 to the USB connector of your computer.

Damper pedal

This is the dedicated damper pedal for the A-88.

A-Series Keyboard CD-ROM

This contains the USB driver and PDF files of the owner’s manual.

Cakewalk SONAR LE DVD-ROM Windows

DAW software allows you to record or play audio data on a computer.

For details on using SONAR LE, user registration, and obtaining a registration code, refer to the installation guide (included on the DVD-ROM), or to the Help function of the software.

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

*You need DAW software for Mac OS X.

Cakewalk SONAR LE installation guide Windows

This explains the installation and user registration process for the software included on the Cakewalk SONAR LE DVD-ROM. Unless you complete the user registration and obtain a

registration code as directed in this guide, you won’t be able to use the software for more than thirty days after installation.

Owner’s Manual

This is the document you’re reading. Keep it at hand for reference when needed.

13

Panel Descriptions

Panel

D-BEAM (p. 36)

D-BEAM controller

Move your hand above this to apply various effects to the sound.

[POWER] switch

[PITCH] button

If this is turned on, the D-BEAM controller will control the pitch.

[VOL] button

If this is turned on, the D-BEAM

controller will control the volume.

This turns the power on/off.

*When not connected

to a computer, the A-88 will automatically be

switched off four hours after you stop playing or operating it (if the factory settings have been unmodified). If you don’t want the unit to turn off automatically, change the “AUTO OFF” setting to “OFF” as described on p. 42.

[ASSIGN] button

If this is turned on, the D-BEAM controller will control the function you’ve assigned. (Factory setting: aftertouch)

POWER indicator

This will light when the power is on.

[C1][C2] knobs

Turn this knob to use the function you’ve assigned (p. 37).

[FUNCTION] button

If you press this button so it’s lit, you can change the MIDI channel or transmit a program number by pressing the appropriate keys (p. 27).

[S1][S2] buttons

You can switch sounds by pressing these buttons (p. 32).

[SuperNATURAL] button

[Pitch Bend/Modulation] lever

If this is turned on, you’ll be able to control a connected SuperNATURAL sound module (p. 28).

Use this lever to vary the pitch or to apply vibrato (p. 35).

14

Roland A-88 User Manual

[DUAL/SPLIT] [LOWER] [UPPER] buttons

These buttons allow you to play two layered sounds simultaneously (Dual), or to play different sounds in the left and right sections of the keyboard, divided at a specified key (Split) (p. 30).

How the buttons indicate the DUAL/SPLIT status

Status

Button illumination

Keyboard section

Single

 

 

(only UPPER)

 

UPPER

 

 

Single

 

 

(only LOWER)

 

LOWER

 

 

DUAL

 

UPPER

 

 

 

 

LOWER

 

 

Split point (F#3)

SPLIT

 

 

In Split mode, controllers other than the keyboard (pitch bend lever, pedals, etc.) will affect only the part whose indicator is lit.

[TRANSPOSE] button, OCTAVE/TRANSPOSE indicator, [+][–] buttons

In PLAY mode (p. 26), you can press the [TRANSPOSE] button to switch the function of the OCTAVE/TRANSPOSE indicator and the [+] [–] buttons.

When the [TRANSPOSE] button is turned on, the transposition setting is enabled. When the [TRANSPOSE] button is turned off, the transposition setting is disabled.

Button

Function

OCTAVE/TRANSPOSE indicator

 

 

 

[+][–] buttons

Change the octave setting (p. 34)

Indicates the octave setting

 

 

 

[TRANSPOSE] + [+][–]

Change the transpose setting(p. 34)

Indicates the transpose setting

buttons

 

 

The OCTAVE/TRANSPOSE indicator and the setting it shows

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-6 -5 -4 -3 -2 -1 0 1

2 3 4 5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unlit

 

 

Lit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15

Panel Descriptions

Rear Panel

[POWER SOURCE] switch, DC IN jack

This switch specifies whether the A-88 will be powered by USB bus power (USB) or by the AC adaptor (AC ADAPTOR).

Switch setting

Explanation

USB

The A-88 will use USB bus power. The AC adaptor does not need to be connected. Use this

setting when the A-88 is connected to a desktop computer.

 

 

 

AC ADAPTOR

The A-88 will use the AC adaptor. Use this setting when the A-88 is connected to a notebook

computer, or when you are not connecting it via USB.

 

 

 

Power Code

AC Outlet

*Operate this switch only while the power is off. If you operate this switch while the power is on, the power will turn off.

Pedal (DAMPER, FC1,

FC2) jacks

You can connect the included damper pedal to the DAMPER jack and use it as a damper pedal (p. 38).

Set the switch on the included pedal to “Continuous” when the pedal is connected.

Or

Pedal unit (RPU-3, sold separately)

Or expression pedal (EV-5, EV-7; sold separately),

pedal switch (DP series; sold separately)

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.

USB

COMPUTER port

If you use the included

USB cable to connect the A-88 to your computer, you’ll be able to record and play back the A-88’s performance (MIDI data) using MIDI-compatible software.

*USB audio is not supported.

*Install the driver in your computer before you make this connection (p. 17).

MIDI OUT connector

You can connect this to a MIDI sound module and play it from the A-88.

*To prevent malfunction and equipment failure, always turn down the volume and turn off all devices (except the computer) before making any connections.

16

Driver Installation

Windows

Mac OS X

NOTE

Do not connect the A-88 to the computer until you are directed to do so.

A “driver” is software that transfers data between the A-88 and application software running on your computer when your computer and the A-88 are connected.

1. Set the A-88’s [POWER SOURCE] switch as follows (p.. 16)..

Switch setting

Explanation

 

 

USB

Use this setting when the A-88 is connected to a desktop computer.

 

 

AC ADAPTOR

Use this setting when the A-88 is connected to a notebook computer.

Connect the AC adaptor.

 

 

 

2.Start up the computer without the A-88 connected..

Disconnect all USB cables other than those for a USB keyboard and/or USB mouse (if used).

3.

4.

Windows

Log on to the computer with a user account that has administrator privileges.

Windows 8

Switch to the “Desktop.”

Exit all applications that are running..

Insert the included CD-ROM into the DVD-ROM drive..

Windows 8/Windows 7/Windows Vista

If the AutoPlay dialog box appears, click [Open folder to view files].

5.Of the following, double-click the relevant file on the included CD-ROM to start the installer..

Operating System

File

 

 

Windows

[Setup] in the [WinDriver] folder

 

 

Mac OS X

[A-SeriesKeyboard_USBDriver] in the [MacDriver] folder

 

 

Refer to the Roland website for the latest USB drivers and information about compatibility with the latest operating system versions.

http://www.roland.com/

Windows

users page 18

 

Mac OS X

users page 20

17

Driver Installation

Windows

6.When a confirmation screen regarding user account control appears, click [Yes] or [Continue]..

7.When “The A-Series Keyboard Driver will be installed on your computer” appears, click [Next]..

8.Click [Next] again..

Windows 8/Windows 7/Windows Vista

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

Windows XP

If the “Software Install” dialog box appears, click [Continue] to proceed with the installation.

If you cannot proceed, click [OK] to cancel the installation. Change the settings as described in “Driver Signing Options Setting (Windows XP)” (p. 52) and try installing again.

9.When the screen indicates “Ready to install the driver,” use the USB cable to connect the A-88 to your computer, and then turn on the [POWER] switch..

A-88 rear panel

* Turn down the volume on any peripheral devices before connecting the USB cable.

*This unit is equipped with a protection circuit.

A brief interval (a few seconds) after turning the unit on is required before it will operate normally.

It may take several minutes for the driver to be installed.

Windows 8/Windows 7/Windows Vista

If other messages appear, follow the instructions on the screen. The driver will be installed automatically.

Windows XP

“Found new hardware” will appear in the lower-right corner of the screen.

Windows 8/Windows 7/Windows Vista

Windows XP

18

Driver Installation

Windows 8/Windows 7/Windows Vista

10.When “Installation has been completed..” appears, click [Close]..

Close the “A-Series Keyboard Driver Setup” dialog box.

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

page 23

Windows XP

10.If a dialog box that asks whether you want to connect to Windows Update appears, select [No, not this time] and click [Next]..

11.Select [Install the software automatically (Recommended)] and click [Next]..

12.If the “Hardware Installation” dialog box appears, click [Continue Anyway] to proceed with installation..

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

14.When “Installation has been completed..” appears, click [Close]..

Close the “A-Series Keyboard Driver Setup dialog box.

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

page 23

19

Driver Installation

Mac OS X

If a dialog box requesting a password appears during installation, enter a computer administrator’s user name and password and click the [Install Software] button or [OK] button.

6.When “Welcome to the A-Series Keyboard Driver installer” appears, click [Continue]..

7.If the screen for selecting the installation destination appears, select the startup disk and click [Continue]..

8.When the installation type appears, click [Install] or [Upgrade]..

9.Click [Continue Installation] in the next screen..

10.When installation has finished, click [Restart] to restart the Mac..

It may take some time for the computer to restart.

11.After the Mac restarts, use the USB cable to connect the A-88 to the Mac, and then turn on the [POWER] switch..

*Turn down the volume on any peripheral devices before connecting the USB cable.

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

A-88

rear panel

12.Open the [Applications] folder and then the [Utilities] folder, and then doubleclick [Audio MIDI Setup]..

The “Audio MIDI Setup” dialog box will appear.

13.Open the MIDI device settings dialog box..

Operating System

Operation

 

 

Mac OS X v10..6 or later

Select [Show MIDI Window] in the [Window] menu.

(The “MIDI Studio” window will appear.)

 

 

 

Mac OS X v10..5 or earlier

Click the [MIDI Devices] tab.

 

 

20

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