Roland BK-5 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

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WARNING

– To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this device to rain or moisture.

This product complies with the requirements of European Directive EMC 2004/108/EC.

For EU countries

For EU Countries

For the USA

For the USA

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:

— Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
— Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
— Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
— Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Unauthorized changes or modification to this system can void the users authority to operate this equipment.
This equipment requires shielded interface cables in order to meet FCC class B Limit.

For Canada

For Canada

NOTICE

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

AVIS

For C.A. US (Proposition 65)

For C.A. US (Proposition 65

WARNING

This product contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm, including lead.

For the UK

For the U.K.

IMPORTANT: THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.

BLUE:
BROWN:

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying
the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.
Under no circumstances must either of the above wires be connected to the earth terminal of a three pin plug.

NEUTRAL
LIVE

For the USA

For the USA

)

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Compliance Information Statement

BK-5
Backing Keyboard

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Copyright © 2011 ROLAND EUROPE. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of Roland Europe S.p.a.

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

Owner’s Manual

Thank you and congratulations on your choice of the Roland BK-5 Backing Keyboard.
To ensure that you obtain the maximum enjoyment and take full advantage of the BK-5’s functionality, please read this

owner’s manual carefully.

ENGLISH ENGLISH

About this manual

You should first read the chapter “Before you start using the BK-5” on p. 16. It explains how to connect the AC adaptor
and turn on the power. This Owner’s Manual explains everything, from the BK-5’s basic operations to more advanced
functions.

Conventions in this manual

In order to explain the operations as clearly as possible, this manual uses the following conventions:

•Text enclosed in square brackets [ ] indicates the name of a button or knob. Example: the [MENU] button.

• Paragraphs that begin with “NOTE” are cautionary statements that you must read.

• Paragraphs that begin with “MEMO” contain useful information that may come in handy.

•The numbers of pages that you can turn to for additional or related information are given like this: (p. **).

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., include newer sounds), so what
you actually see in the display may not always match what appears in the manual.

Before using this instrument, carefully read “Using the unit safely” on p. 4 and “Important notes” on p. 6. Those sections provide
information concerning the proper operation of the BK-5. Additionally, in order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp
of every feature provided by your new unit, the manual should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on
hand as a convenient reference.

ENGLISH ENGLISH

Backing Keyboard

Using the unit safely

BK-5

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.

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

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

• 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.

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

• 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.

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

•Make sure you always have the unit placed so it is level
and sure to remain stable. Never place it on stands that
could wobble, or on inclined surfaces.

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

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

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

• 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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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.

• This unit, 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.

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

• Never allow foreign objects (e.g., flammable material,
coins, pins) or liquids (e.g., water or juice) to enter this
unit. Doing so may cause short circuits, faulty operation,
or other malfunctions.

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

•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.

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

•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.

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

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

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

4

• 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.

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

• 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 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..

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

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

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

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Using the unit safely

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

• 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.

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

• 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and unplug
the AC adaptor from the outlet (see p. 20).

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

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

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

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Backing Keyboard

Important notes

BK-5

1. Important notes

In addition to the items listed under “Using the unit safely” on p. 4, please read and observe the following:

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
(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.

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

• 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

• Using the BK-5 near power amplifiers (or other equipment con­taining large power transformers) may induce hum. To alleviate
the problem, change the orientation of this instrument or move it
further away from the source of interference.

• This device may interfere with radio and television reception. Do
not use it 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. 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 BK-5. 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 objects to remain on top of the keyboard. This can be
the cause of malfunction, such as keys ceasing to produce sound.

• 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 (e.g. flower vases) on the
BK-5. 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

• 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, nonabrasive detergent.
Afterwards, be sure to wipe the unit thoroughly with a soft, dry
cloth.

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

Additional precautions

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

• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the BK-5’s buttons,
other controls and jacks/connectors. Rough handling can lead to
malfunctions.

• Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.

•When connecting/disconnecting 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 your neighbors, try to keep the BK-5’s volume
at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do
not need to be concerned about those around you (especially late
at night).

•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.

• Do not apply undue force to the music stand while it is in use.

• Use only the specified expression pedal (Roland EV-series, sold
separately) or pedal switch (Roland DP-series, BOSS FS-5U). By
connecting any other expression pedal or footswitch, you risk
causing malfunction and/or damage the unit.

• 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.

Storage devices that can be connected to the
BK-5’s USB MEMORY port

• The BK-5 allows you to connect commercially available USB Flash
memory. You can purchase such devices at a computer store, a
digital camera dealer, etc.

• Though external hard disks with a capacity in excess of 2TB can be
used, please bear in mind that the BK-5 can manage a maximum
of 2TB. (FAT-32 formatted storage devices can be used right away.)

• Use USB memory sold by Roland (M-UF-series). We cannot guar­antee operation if any other USB memory is used.

Before using external USB storage devices

• Carefully insert the USB memory all the way in until it is firmly in
place.

• Never touch the terminals of USB memories. Also, avoid getting
the terminals dirty.

• USB memories are constructed using precision components; han­dle the storage devices carefully, paying particular note to the fol­lowing.

• To prevent damage from static electrical charges, discharge any

static electricity that might be present in your body before han­dling a USB memory.

• Do not touch the terminals with your fingers or any metal

object.

• Do not bend or drop a USB memory, or subject it to strong

impact.

• Do not leave a USB memory in direct sunlight or in locations

such as a closed-up automobile.

• Do not allow a USB memory to become wet.

• Do not disassemble or modify your external USB memories.

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6

•When connecting a USB memory, position it horizontally with the

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

•MPEG Layer-3 audio compression technology is licensed from Fraunhofer IIS Corporation and THOMSON Multimedia Corporation.

•Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

• Copyright © 2003 by Bitstream, Inc. All rights reserved. Bitstream Vera is a trademark of Bitstream, Inc.

• 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.

BK-5’s USB MEMORY port and insert it without using excessive
force. The USB MEMORY port may be damaged if you use excessive
force when inserting a USB memory.

• Do not insert anything other than a USB memory (e.g., wire, coins,
other types of device) into the USB MEMORY port. Doing so will
damage the BK-5’s USB MEMORY port.

• Never connect your USB memory to the BK-5 via a USB hub.

• Do not connect or disconnect a USB drive while it is being read
from, or written to (i.e., while the USB flash access indicator
blinks).

Handling CDs

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

Liability and copyright

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

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

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Important notes

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About audio files

• Audio files in the following formats can be played back:

•WAV format

• 16-bit linear

• Sampling rate of 44.1kHz

• Stereo/mono

•mp3 files:

•MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3

• Sampling frequency: 8/11.025/12/16/22.05/24/32/44.1/48kHz

•Bit rate: 32/40/48/56/64/80/96/112/128/160/192/224/256/

320kbps, VBR (variable bit rate)

Supported Standard MIDI Files

• Format 0/1

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Backing Keyboard

Features

BK-5

2. Features

The BK-5 is a professional keyboard designed to provide everything the entertaining artist and serious amateur musician
needs on stage, in the studio, or at home.

All-in-one arranger instrument

The BK-5 is a superb instrument that uses Roland’s
latest technology for professional-grade sounds and
128 notes of polyphony.

High-quality rhythms

Your BK-5 comes loaded with over 300 stunning
accompaniments (“rhythms”) that cover a variety of
musical genres for various geographic areas (includ­ing Eastern Europe, Latin-America and Asia). Each
rhythm comprises 4 intros, 4 main accompaniments,
4 endings, 3 “Up” and 3 “Down” fill-ins.

Four suitable settings for each rhythm
(One Touch)

For each rhythm, the Roland team has prepared four
sets of suitable tones, effects and other settings that
can be loaded for the realtime parts (One Touch
function).

USB-based Standard MIDI Files and rhythm
player

The BK-5 plays Standard MIDI Files and rhythms
directly from a connected USB memory.

USB-based audio player and audio recorder

The BK-5 contains an audio player function that
allows you to play back mp3 and WAV files directly
from a connected USB memory.

The BK-5 also allows you to record your perfor­mances. The resulting WAV files (audio) can be played
back on the BK-5 itself.

Three real-time parts

The BK-5 comes with three MIDI parts (Upper 1,
Upper 2, Lower) that can be played in real time.

Performance List function

This function allows you to save nearly all of the
BK-5’s settings for each song and/or rhythm you will
be using during your performances. The list that con­tains these settings can be saved to a USB memory
and loaded from there whenever the need arises.

Possibility to create new rhythms and to edit
existing ones

The Rhythm Composer function allows you to create
new rhythms and to edit (i.e. change) existing ones,
and then save them as “User Rhythms” to a USB
memory.

Multi-effects for rhythms or Standard MIDI files
and real-time parts

With a view to obtaining the highest possible sound
quality, the BK-5 contains two dedicated multi­effects processors (MFX A and B) for the Standard
MIDI Files and rhythms you play back. In addition,
there is one MFX processor for the real-time parts
(Upper 1, Upper 2, Lower).

Composite Video Out

The BK-5’s VIDEO OUTPUT socket can be connected to
an external screen, allowing your audience or fellow
musicians to follow the lyrics and chord symbols
(only SMF files) of the songs you perform.

You can also view digital pictures in the .jpg format
you took yourself.

16 NTA parts (Note-to-Arranger)

The BK-5 provides up to 16 MIDI parts dedicated to
Arranger control via MIDI (“Note-to-Arranger”).

16 Song parts

The BK-5 also provides 16 Song parts, which are used
for Standard MIDI File playback but can also be con­trolled via MIDI (a computer connected to the MIDI
IN socket or the COMPUTER USB port). This allows
you to use the BK-5 as a 16-part multitimbral MIDI
tone generator.

Song and Rhythm Makeup Tools for Standard
MIDI Files and rhythms

These tools allow you to modify songs in no time
without knowing the MIDI commands normally used
to perform such changes.

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Contents

Backing Keyboard BK-5

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1. Important notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2. Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

3. Panel description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Front panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Rear panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

4. Shortcut list . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

5. Before you start using the BK-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Connecting the AC adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Connecting the BK-5 to an amplifier, mixer, etc. . . . 16

Connecting a MIDI device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Connecting the BK-5 to your computer. . . . . . . . . . . 17

If the computer doesn’t ‘see’ the BK-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Connecting a television set. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Connecting an optional footswitch, hold pedal or

expression pedal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Connecting a portable audio player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Listening through headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Installing the music rest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Turning the power on/off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Turning the power on. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Turning the power off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Energy saving function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Demo of the BK-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

6. Basic operation of the BK-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

About the display and cursor operation. . . . . . . . . . . 22

Main page. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Moving the cursor and setting parameter values . . . . . .22

Moving between windows. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

7. Playing the BK-5’s real-time parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Switching the UP2 and LWR parts on and off . . . . .24

Selecting Tones for the real-time parts . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Using the [UP2] or [LWR] button to select Tones . . . . . .24

Selecting a Tone on the main page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Using the ‘Numeric’ function to select Tones, Rhythms

and Performances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Checking a Tone’s or rhythm’s MIDI address . . . . . . . . . . 26

Using the ‘Help’ function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

8. Rhythm functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Volume balance between the backing and the real-

time parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

About the rhythms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Using rhythms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Selecting rhythms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Playing back rhythms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Using the ‘One Touch’ function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Programming your own ONE TOUCH settings (One Touch

Edit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

9. Using the BK-5 as a USB player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Getting ready to use the BK-5 as a USB player. . . . . 34

File types the BK-5 can read and play back . . . . . . . . . . .34

Selecting a song or rhythm on a USB memory. . . . . 34

Playing back a song or rhythm from a USB memory35

Renaming or deleting files/folders

on a USB memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Rename . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Delete. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Using the ‘Search’ function to locate songs, rhythms

or pictures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Activating the ‘Play All Songs’ parameter for the

USB memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Deactivating the ‘Play All Songs’ function . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Loop function (MARK A/B) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Setting and using the loop positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

10. Other important functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Changing the key. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Changing the octave. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Using ‘Track Mute’ and ‘Center Cancel’ . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Selecting the track(s) to mute for rhythms

or SMF songs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Using the ‘Melody Intell(igence)’ function . . . . . . . . 43

Using Split mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Setting the volume of the real-time parts . . . . . . . . 43

11. Performance Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Performance/Music Assistant/Factory Songs info . . 45
Loading a Performance/‘Music Assistant’/‘Factory

Songs’ List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Recalling a Performance/‘Music Assistant’/

‘Factory Songs’ memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Quickly locating Performance memories. . . . . . . . . . 46

Saving your settings as a Performance . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Other Performance List functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

If you select ‘Rename’. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

If you select ‘Delete’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

If you select ‘Make New List’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Editing Performance memories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Delete Performance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Saving the edited Performance List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

12. Adding pictures to the music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Displaying photos automatically. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Enjoying a VIMA TUNES slide show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Enjoying a slide show of your own pictures . . . . . . . . . . 50

Using one of your own pictures as background. . . . 51

13. Recording your performance as audio data . . . . . 52

Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Listening to your recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Saving your recording as an audio file . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

14. Lock functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Switching the locks on and off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

15. Menu options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

General procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Internal Lyrics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

External Lyrics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

9

Backing Keyboard BK-5

‘Performance Edit’ parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

‘Tone Part View’ parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

‘Tone Part MFX’ parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

‘Rhythm Parts’ parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Split . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Key. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

‘Arranger Setting’ parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

‘Melody Intelligent’ parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Save As Default . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

‘Global’ parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Save Global. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

One Touch Edit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

Mastering Tools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Compressor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

Equalizer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Makeup Tools (rhythms and SMF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Using the Makeup Tools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Common. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

Freeze Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Saving your new rhythm or song (SMF) version . . . . . . .80

Rhythm Composer (programming your

own rhythms) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Clearing the RAM memory (Initialize Rhythm) . . . . . . . . 81

Getting ready for the first track. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Recording a rhythm pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85

Auditioning your rhythm and adding more tracks . . . . .85

Saving your rhythm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Recording other tracks and divisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86

Help function on the main Rhythm Composer page . . . 86

Muting tracks while recording others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Solo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

Rhythm Track Edit functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Editing individual rhythm events (Micro Edit). . . . . . 99

General procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99

Editing events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100

Other edit operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101

MIDI parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Local . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103

Loading a MIDI Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103

Edit Rhythm Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104

Edit Tone Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105

Edit Song Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105

Edit System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106

Sync. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106

Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107

Rhythm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108

NTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108

Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109

Visual Control TxCh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110

Save MIDI Set. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110

Factory Reset. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Formatting a USB memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111

16. Visual Control function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Selecting clips and banks on an optional MIDI Visual

Control/V-LINK device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114

17. Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

19. Tone List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119

20. Drum Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125

21. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138

Style Converter 4 system requirements. . . . . . . . . . 140

22. MIDI Implementation Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141

23. Chord Intelligence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .142

18. Rhythm list . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Rhythm division program change numbers. . . . . . . . . .118

E-Series compatibility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118

Recalling a Performance memory from the loaded

Performance List via MIDI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118

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10

3. Panel description

Front panel

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Panel description

r

B

C

DEFG

H

IJK L MNO

A

A

Pitch Bend/Modulation lever

You can raise or lower the pitch by moving this lever
to the left or right. Push the lever away from yourself
to apply modulation (normally vibrato) to the sound.

B

PHONES 1 & 2 sockets

This is where you can connect one or two pairs of
optional headphones (Roland RH-series). Doing so
switches off the internal speakers.

C

VOLUME knob

Use this knob to set the BK-5’s global output volume
(all signals transmitted to the speakers and OUTPUT
sockets). The setting of this knob also determines the
volume in the headphones you may connect.

D

RHYTHM FAMILY buttons

These buttons are used to select the family of the
next rhythm you want to use. Pressing one of these
buttons calls up a list of all rhythms contained in the
selected family.

Pressing and holding this button locks the currently
selected rhythm (see p. 54).

E

TAP TEMPO button

Pressing this button several times allows you to
change the current rhythm’s or song’s tempo to the
value calculated from the speed at which the button
is pressed.

Pressing and holding this button locks the current
tempo setting (see p. 54).

F

TEMPO buttons

These buttons can be used to decrease or increase the
tempo of the currently selected rhythm or song.
Pressing them together recalls the rhythm’s or song’s
stored tempo value.

NOTE

You can also use the [TAP TEMPO] button E to set the
desired tempo.

G

SYNC START button

This button is used to activate or switch off the
BK-5’s Sync Start or Sync Stop function. If it is on,
rhythm playback can be started or stopped by simply
playing a note or chord on the keyboard. See also
page 27.

While a song file is selected, this button stops play­back.

H

BALANCE buttons

These buttons allow you to set the balance between
the rhythms and songs (BACKING) and the real-time
parts (PART).

11

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Panel description

I

AUDIO REC button

This button is used to start audio recording of your
performance. This function records everything the
BK-5 transmits to its OUTPUT sockets (audio signals
you play back and audio versions of the MIDI parts
you control). See page 52.

This button is also used to select the Rhythm Com­poser function (see p. 81).

J

BASS INV button

This button is used to switch the Bass Inversion func­tion on and off (page 29).

K

AUTO FILL IN button

This button is used to activate the Auto Fill-In func­tion, which causes a transition to be played before
selecting the new rhythm variation (which is selected
with the VARIATION buttons).

L

VARIATION 1/2/3/4 buttons

These buttons are used to select a rhythm “Variation”,
i.e. a simpler or more complex arrangement of the
selected rhythm.

M

INTRO button

When you activate this button, rhythm playback
starts with a musical introduction whose complexity
depends on which VARIATION button currently lights
(there are four different introductions per rhythm).

After selecting a song file, this button allows you to
rewind.

NOTE

You can also press this button during rhythm playback.

N

ENDING button

When you activate this button, rhythm playback
stops with a musical ending whose complexity
depends on which VARIATION button currently lights
(there are four different ending phrases per rhythm).

After selecting a song file, this button allows you to
fast-forward.

O

START/STOP button

This button allows you to start and stop rhythm play­back. If you select a song, it starts and temporarily
stops (pause) song playback.

P

Q

YZ

RSTU

ab

VW

cd e

f

X

P

Display

This display shows information related to your opera­tion.

Q

CURSOR/VALUE dial

This dial can be used to move the cursor in the dis­play, to select parameters and to set values.

R

ENTER/SELECT button

Press this button to confirm your selection or dese­lection of the display item where the cursor is.

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12

S

PERFORMANCE LIST button

This button calls up the Performance List (page 45).

T

PERFORMANCE WRITE button

The main function of this button is to save Perfor­mance settings. Depending on the selected display
page, it can also be used to save rhythms and songs.

U

KEY button

This button calls up the BK-5’s transposition func­tion. Its settings can be applied to rhythms, Songs
and the 3 real-time parts (UP1, UP2, LWR).

Backing Keyboard BK-5

r

Front panel

If the button’s indicator doesn’t light, the rhythm,
Songs and the 3 real-time parts use their normal
pitch.

Pressing and holding this button locks the key (see
p. 54).

V

TRACK MUTE/CENTER CANCEL button

This button lets you mute the accompaniment parts
of the selected rhythm, so that only the bass and
drum parts are played back. It also lets you mute the
melody part of the selected MIDI File, or attenuate
the vocal part at the center of an audio file (WAV or
mp3), allowing you to sing or play that part yourself.

Pressing and holding this button calls up a display
page where you can select the Standard MIDI File or
rhythm part(s) that you don’t want to hear.

W

USB MEMORY button

Press this button to call up a list of the files stored on
the USB memory connected to the BK-5‘s USB MEM­ORY port.

X

USB MEMORY port

Connect an optional USB memory here.

Note: Roland does not recommend using USB hubs, irre­spective of whether they are active or passive. Please con­nect only one USB memory to this port.

NOTE

Use USB memory sold by Roland. We cannot guarantee
operation if any another USB memory is used.

Y

MENU button

This button allows you to open the BK-5’s menu page
where you can view and select all available functions.
Press it together with the [EXIT] button to listen to
the BK-5’s demo songs.

Z

EXIT button

This button is used to return to a higher menu level.
Press and hold it to return to the BK-5’s main display
page.

a

SPLIT button

This button is used to activate Split mode. While its
indicator lights, notes played to the left of the C4 on
an keyboard trigger the LWR part. Notes to the right
of the split point, on the other hand, trigger the UP1
and UP2 parts. See “Using Split mode” on p. 43.

b

PART LWR and UP2 buttons

These buttons are used to switch the real-time parts
(Lower and Upper2) on and off.

d

MELODY INTELL button

This buttons is used to add an automatic counter­melody (second or third voice) to your solos or melo­dies. Pressing and holding it calls up a display page
where you can view the “Melody Intelligent” parame­ter.

e

NUMERIC button

Press this button if you want to use the TONE buttons

f to enter numeric values (see p. 25).

f

TONE buttons (Tone selection)/[0]~[9] (numeric but­tons)

These buttons allow you to select Tones by category
(page 24).

You can also use them to input numeric values. To do
so, first activate the NUMERIC button e.

Pressing and holding any of these buttons locks the
Tone (page 54).

NOTE

The Upper1 part (UP1) is always active and cannot be
switched off.

c

ONE TOUCH button

This button is used to enable the recall of One Touch
memories. Pressing and holding it calls up a display
page where you can edit and save One Touch memo­ries.

NOTE

Use the TONE buttons [1]~[4] to select or deselect a One
Touch memory (see p. 31).

13

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Panel description

Rear panel

ABCDEFGIH

A

USB COMPUTER port

Use a USB cable to connect the BK-5 to your com­puter via this connector (page 17).

B

AUDIO INPUT (STEREO) mini jack

This mini jack allows you to connect the audio out­puts of an external signal source (CD/mp3 player,
synthesizer, etc.).

C

AUDIO OUTPUT R & L/MONO sockets

These sockets transmit all audio signals the BK-5
generates as well as the signals you input to the
BK-5.

NOTE

If you can/want to use only one channel on your external
amplifier, connect the L/MONO socket to its input. For opti­mum sound quality, we recommend working in stereo,
though.

D

VIDEO OUTPUT socket

Connect this socket to the appropriate input of your
TV or external display.

NOTE

The signal format (PAL or NTSC) and aspect ratio are select­able (page 67).

E

PEDAL HOLD socket

An optional Roland DP-series or BOSS FS-5U foot­switch connected to this socket can be used to hold
the notes of the real-time parts. (The MELODY INTELL
part can also be sustained in this way.) This function
is also referred to as “sustain” or “damper”.

F

PEDAL SWITCH/EXPRESSION socket

Connect a separately available pedal switch (Roland
DP-series), a separately available foot switch (BOSS
FS-5U) or a separately available expression pedal
(Roland EV-5) to this jack (page 18).

G

MIDI IN & OUT sockets

You can connect MIDI devices to these sockets
(page 17).

H

POWER switch

Turns the power on/off (page 20).

With the factory settings, the BK-5’s power will auto­matically be switched off 30 minutes after you stop
playing or operating the BK-5.

If the BK-5’s power has been turned off automati­cally, you can use the [POWER] switch to turn the
BK-5 back on. If you don’t want the power to turn off
automatically, set the “Auto Off” parameter to “OFF”
(page 69).

I

DC IN socket

Connect the supplied PSB-7U AC adapter here
(page 16).

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14

Backing Keyboard BK-5

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Shortcut list

4. Shortcut list

Pressing and holding the following buttons (or button combinations) allows you to directly jump to a related parameter
page, which is faster than selecting the page in question via the BK-5’s menu. Some of these buttons activate a lock func­tion (page 54).

Press and hold Function

RHYTHM FAMILY buttons

Locks the rhythm to keep it from changing when you select another Per­formance memory.

Locks the tempo setting to keep it from changing when you select
another Performance memory.

After activating record standby mode (the indicator flashes), pressing and
holding this button will cancel that mode (use it if you don’t want to
record after all).

Locks the key setting to keep it from changing when you select another
Performance memory.

Opens the “Rhythm Track Mute” or “Song Track Mute” page.

Opens the display page that shows which Tone is currently selected for
the Lower part.

Opens the display page that shows which Tone is currently selected for
the Upper2 part.

TONE buttons

Simultaneously pressing the [LWR] and [UP2] buttons (without holding
them) opens the display page where you can set the volume of the
Upper1, Upper2 and Lower parts.

Opens the “One Touch Edit” page.

Opens the “Melody Intelligence” page.

In some cases, this opens the “Help” page.

Locks the Tone to keep it from changing when you select another Perfor­mance memory.

Opens the “Split” page.

Pressing and holding this button takes you back to the main page, no
matter where you currently are.

15

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Before you start using the BK-5

5. Before you start using the BK-5

Connecting the AC adaptor

1.

Turn the [VOLUME] knob all the way to the
left to minimize the volume.

2.

Connect the included power cord to the AC
adapter.

The indicator will light once you plug the AC adaptor
into a wall outlet.

AC adapter Power cord

to an AC outlet

Indicator

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

NOTE

Depending on your region, the included power cord may
differ from the one shown above.

3.

Connect the AC adaptor to the BK-5’s DC IN
jack.

BK-5’s rear panel

Connecting the BK-5 to an
amplifier, mixer, etc.

The BK-5 contains speakers and therefore doesn’t need
to be connected to an external amplifier.
You can, however, connect the BK-5’s OUTPUT sockets
to an external amplifier (Roland KC-series) or the audio
inputs of an external instrument (digital piano, etc.).

NOTE

To prevent malfunction and equipment failure, always turn
down the volume and turn off all units before making any
connections.

1.

Turn the [VOLUME] knob all the way to the
left to minimize the volume.

2.

Switch off all devices.

3.

Connect the BK-5’s OUTPUT jacks to the
inputs of your external device.

Connecting the BK-5 to an amplifier

4.

Plug the power cord into a power outlet.

The indicator will light once you plug the AC adaptor
into a wall outlet

NOTE

Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with the unit
(PSB-7U). Also, make sure the line voltage at the installa­tion matches the input voltage specified on the AC
adapter’s body. Other AC adapters may use a different
polarity, or be designed for a different voltage, so their use
could result in damage, malfunction, or electric shock.

NOTE

If you won’t be using the BK-5 for an extended period of
time, disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.

INPUT L + R

OUTPUT R +
L/MONO

For the connection to an amplifier, please choose
unbalanced (mono) cables with 1/4” plugs at one end
(for the BK-5). The connectors at the other end need
to match the input sockets of the device to which
you are connecting the BK-5.

NOTE

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

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16

Backing Keyboard BK-5

USB cable

USB port

Computer

Connecting a MIDI device

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Connecting a MIDI device

The BK-5 can transmit and receive performance data
when connected to an external MIDI device, which
enables the two devices to control each other’s perfor­mance. For example, one device can play or switch
sounds on the other device:

MIDI stands for “Musical Instrument Digital Interface.” It
is a universal standard for exchanging musical perfor­mance data among electronic musical instruments and
computers.

The BK-5’s MIDI connectors allow it to transmit perfor­mance data to, and receive such data from other
devices. You can use the BK-5 in a wide range of ways
by connecting external devices to these connectors.

■ Connection example

Before making connections with other devices, you
must turn down the volume of all devices and turn
off the power to avoid malfunctions or speaker dam­age.

Playing the BK-5’s sounds from your MIDI sequencer

Connecting the BK-5 to your
computer

If you use a USB cable (commercially available) to con­nect the COMPUTER port located on the BK-5’s rear
panel to the USB port of your computer, you’ll be able to
do the following things.

•Use the BK-5 as a sound module.

•By transferring MIDI data between the BK-5 and your
sequencer software, you’ll be able to enjoy a wide
range of possibilities for music production and edit­ing.

1.

Use a standard USB cable (A‰B-type con­nectors, commercially available) to connect
the BK-5 to your computer as shown below.

BK-5

Using the BK-5 to play your MIDI sound module

NOTE

Certain instruments, like an FR-3x V-Accordion, only have
one MIDI socket whose function (IN or OUT) needs to be set
with one of its MIDI parameters. To control the BK-5 from
such an instrument, you need to set the latter to transmit
MIDI messages (OUT).

MIDI sound module/

sequencer

■ MIDI channels

MIDI provides sixteen channels, numbered 1~16.
Even if two MIDI devices are connected, you won’t be
able to select or play sounds on the other device

unless both devices are set to the same MIDI channel.
The BK-5 is capable of receiving on all channels, 1~

16.

2.

Refer to the Roland website for system
requirements.
Roland website: http://www.roland.com/

As an alternative, you can connect the BK-5’s MIDI
OUT and MIDI IN sockets to a MIDI interface and con­nect the latter to your computer.

If the computer doesn’t ‘see’ the BK-5

Normally, you don’t need to install a driver in order to
connect the BK-5 to your computer. However, if some
problem occurs, or if the performance is poor, using the
Roland original driver may solve the problem.

For details on downloading and installing the Roland
original driver, refer to the Roland website:
http://www.roland.com/

Specify the USB driver you want to use, and then install
the driver. For details, refer to “USB Driver” on p. 69.

■ Caution

•To avoid the risk of malfunction and/or damage to
external speakers, always turn the volume all the way
down and switch off the power on all devices before
you make any connections.

• Only MIDI data can be transmitted and received via
USB. Audio data for a song recorded on the BK-5
cannot be transmitted or received.

• Switch on the power to the BK-5 before you start up
the MIDI application on your computer. Never turn
the BK-5’s power on/off while your MIDI application
is running.

17

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Before you start using the BK-5

Connecting a television set

Video cable

(Commercially available)

BK-5 rear panel

VIDEO OUTPUT

NOTE

Before you make connections to other devices, you must
turn down the volume of all devices and turn off their
power to prevent malfunctions or damage to your speak­ers.

1.

Switch off the BK-5 and the television set
you’ll be connecting.

2.

Connect the BK-5 to your television set.

Use a video cable (commercially available) to connect
the BK-5’s VIDEO OUTPUT jack to the television set.

3.

Switch on the BK-5 (see p. 20).

4.

Switch on your television set.

5.

(As necessary) Specify the television output
format (see p. 67).

6.

Specify the aspect ratio for your television
set.

The aspect ratio is the proportional relationship
between the width and height of the screen. See
page 67.

Television

Connecting an optional footswitch, hold pedal or expression pedal

■ Footswitch or expression pedal, hold pedal

The BK-5 provides a PEDAL SWITCH/EXPRESSION jack
to which you can connect an optional footswitch
(Roland DP-series or BOSS FS-5U) or an expression
pedal (Roland EV-series).

Optional footswitch

(Roland DP-series,

BOSS FS-5U)

Optional footswitch

(Roland DP-series, BOSS

FS-5U)
—or—

Optional expression pedal

(Roland EV-series)

If you connect a footswitch, you can select the func­tion it should perform (page 69). By default, the foot­switch will control the “Start/Stop” function.

The BK-5 also provide a HOLD socket to which you
can connect a damper pedal or footswitch (Roland
DP-series or BOSS FS-5U) that allows you to hold
(sustain) the notes of the real-time parts you play.

NOTE

Use only the specified expression pedal (Roland EV-series,
sold separately) or pedal switch (Roland DP-series, BOSS
FS-5U). By connecting any other expression pedal or foot­switch, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage the
unit.

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18

Connecting a portable audio player

You can connect a portable audio player or any other
line-level source to the AUDIO INPUT (STEREO) socket.

The input level of the audio source you connect can be
set with the “Audio In Level” parameter on the MENU‰
Global‰ Utility page (page 68).

AUDIO

OUT

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Connecting a portable audio player

•Use headphones fitted with a stereo 1/4” phone plug.

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Installing the music rest

1.

Install the music rest as shown in the illus­tration.

You can also attenuate the vocal or solo part at the cen­ter of the stereo image of the audio signals being
received. See “Audio In Center Canc” on p. 68.

Listening through headphones

You can use headphones to enjoy the BK-5 without dis­turbing those around you, such as at night.

1.

Plug the headphones into the PHONES 1 or
2 socket located on the left side of the
BK-5’s front panel.

Doing so switches off the BK-5’s speakers.

2.

Use the BK-5’s [VOLUME] knob to adjust the
headphone volume.

NOTE

When moving the BK-5, be sure to remove the music rest
as a safety precaution.

NOTE

Do not apply excessive force to the music rest.

NOTE

The music rest is not designed to accept the placement of
laptops or other heavy objects.

■ Cautions when using headphones

•To prevent damage to the cord’s internal conductors,
avoid rough handling. When using headphones,
mainly try to handle either the plug or the headset.

• Your headphones may be damaged if the volume of a
device is already turned up when you plug them in.
Minimize the volume before you plug in the head­phones.

• Excessive input will not only damage your hearing,
but may also strain the headphones. Please enjoy
music at a reasonable volume.

19

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Before you start using the BK-5

Turning the power on/off

Once the connections have been completed, turn on the
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.

Turning the power on

1.

Turn the [VOLUME] knob all the way to the
left to minimize the volume.

4.

Use the [VOLUME] knob to adjust the vol­ume.

Turning the power off

1.

Turn the [VOLUME] knob all the way to the
left to minimize the volume.

NOTE

Never switch off the BK-5 while playback or recording is
running or while data are being read from, or written to, an
external USB memory.

2.

Switch off your external amplification sys­tem if you are using one.

3.

Press the BK-5’s [POWER] switch.

The display will go dark and the power will turn off.

NOTE

Before turning the BK-5 on/off, always be sure to turn the
volume down. Even with the volume turned down, you
might hear some sound when switching the BK-5 on/off.
However, this is normal and does not indicate a malfunc­tion.

2.

Press the [POWER] switch to turn on the
power.

The power will turn on, an opening message will
appear in the BK-5’s screen, and then the main page
will appear.

After a brief interval, the BK-5 will be ready to pro­duce sound.

NOTE

If you need to turn off the power completely, first turn off
the [POWER] switch, then unplug the power cord from the
power outlet. Refer to “Connecting the AC adaptor” on
p. 16.

Energy saving function

NOTE

The BK-5 has an Auto Off function, which auto­matically switches off the power after a certain
amount of time has passed without any buttons
being operated.

Shortly before the BK-5 shuts down automatically,
the display starts counting down the seconds. If you
want to keep using the BK-5 at this stage, press any
button.
You can also disable the “Auto Off” function. For
more about the Auto Off function, refer to p. 69.
When the BK-5 is turned off by the “Auto Off” func­tion, the [POWER] button’s position doesn’t change,
which means that you need to press it once, wait a
few seconds, then press it again to switch the BK-5
back on.

NOTE

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.

3.

Switch on your amplification system or con­nect a pair of headphones (see p. 19).

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20

Demo of the BK-5

Your BK-5 contains a demo that introduces all of its
highlights. It might be a good idea to try it out now. The
demo is self-explanatory, so we’ll just show you how to
start and stop it.

NOTE

You will need to connect an external display to take advantage
of the BK-5’s demo function. See “Connecting a television set”
on p. 18.

1.

Simultaneously press the [MENU] and [EXIT]
buttons.

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Demo of the BK-5

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The BK-5 plays back a song and the external display
introduces the BK-5’s features.

2.

Press the [EXIT] button to leave the demo
function.

NOTE

No data for the music that is played back will be output
from MIDI OUT.

NOTE

All rights reserved. Unauthorized use of this material for
purposes other than private, personal enjoyment is a viola­tion of applicable laws.

21

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Basic operation of the BK-5

6. Basic operation of the BK-5

About the display and cursor operation

This section introduces the information that appears on
the main page in the BK-5’s display and how to navi­gate the menu.

Main page

Current measure or
remaining time

Selected file type:
Rhythm, .SMF,
.WAV, .mp3

Recording time

Name of the last
chord you played

Real-time part field:
UP1, UP2, LWR. The
black field refers to
the selected real­time part.

Time signature

Selected sounds

Moving the cursor and setting parameter values

The display cursor can only be moved to the fields that
contain numeric values.

1.

Rotate the dial to move the cursor to the
parameter whose value you want to change.

Tempo setting or time
stretching

Current “Key”
setting

Name of the
selected rhythm
(or loaded file)

One Touch mem­ory indication

Lock status of
these parameters

Octave settings of
the real-time
parts.

The setting field of the selected parameter is dis­played in reverse.

In our example, we want to assign a different Tone to
the Upper1 (UP1) part.

3.

Rotate the [CURSOR÷VALUE] dial to change
the value.

4.

Press the [ENTER/SELECT] button again to
deselect the “UP1” field.

The parameter’s setting field once again appears on a
white background and the [CURSOR÷VALUE] dial can
once again be used to select another parameter.

Moving between windows

Here is how to navigate the menu to select the setting
you want to change.

1.

Press [MENU] button.

2.

Press the [ENTER/SELECT] button to confirm
your selection.

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22

The display changes to:

This page allows you to select the function group
that contains the setting you want to change.

NOTE

In some cases, the [MENU] button may recall a special edit
menu window instead of a main menu page.

2.

Rotate the [CURSOR÷VALUE] dial to select
the entry of the desired function group.

For this example, we will select “Global”.

3.

Press the [ENTER/SELECT] button to go to
the “Global” function group.

The display changes to:

On this display page, “Display Contrast”, “Display
Brightness” and “Tuning” can be changed directly.
The remaining entries provide access to additional
display pages.

4.

Try to select other “Menu” functions by pro­ceeding as follows:

(a) Press the [EXIT] button once to return to the “Menu”

page.

(b) Rotate the [CURSOR÷VALUE] dial to select an entry,

then press the [ENTER/SELECT] button to go to the
corresponding function group or setting.

(c) Press and hold the [EXIT] button to return to the

BK-5’s main page.
The [EXIT] button stops flashing.

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Basic operation of the BK-5

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23

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Playing the BK-5’s real-time parts

7. Playing the BK-5’s real-time parts

Your BK-5 contains three real-time parts that can be controlled via MIDI: UP1, UP2 and LWR. Feel free to use only UP1 or
to control all three simultaneously. You can assign the desired sounds (or “Tones”) to each of these parts. See page 119
for a list of the available sounds.

2.

If the Tone you need belongs to another

Switching the UP2 and LWR parts on and off

The UP1 part is always active. The UP2 and LWR parts,
however, can be switched on or off.

1.

Press the [UP2] or [LWR] button to switch
the corresponding part (Upper2 or Lower)
on (indicator lights) or off (indicator goes
dark).

family (see p. 119), press another Tone but­ton.

3.

Rotate the [CURSOR÷VALUE] dial to select
the desired Tone, then press the [ENTER/
SELECT] button to confirm your selection.

If you switch on one of these parts, the cursor on the
main page automatically jumps to the “UP2” or
“LWR” field. If [UP2] and [LWR] are both switched off,
the cursor jumps to the “UP1” field.

Selecting Tones for the real-time parts

On the BK-5, the sounds you can assign to the real-time
parts are called “Tones”. The BK-5 allows you to assign
any of the available Tones to any of the three real-time
parts. Tone selection always applies to the part (UP1,
UP2, or LWR) whose field is currently displayed in
reverse.

Tones can be selected in two ways:

Using the [UP2] or [LWR] button to select Tones

1.

Press and hold the [UP2] or [LWR] button.

The display now shows a list of Tones where the cur­rently selected sound is displayed in reverse:

4.

Press [EXIT] to leave the Tone selection
page.

NOTE

You can only listen to Tones for the Upper2 or Lower part if
the [UP2] or [LWR] button lights.

NOTE

Tones can also be selected by simply pressing the
[NUMERIC] key and entering their number.

Selecting a Tone on the main page

1.

If the main page is not displayed, press and
hold the [EXIT] button until it appears.

The numbers and names of the Tones assigned to the
three real-time parts are displayed in the lower half
of the display:

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24

The highlighted numeric field refers to the part
whose Tone assignment can be changed. To select a
different part, move the cursor to its numeric field
and press the [ENTER/SELECT] button.

2.

Rotate the [CURSOR÷VALUE] dial to select
the desired numeric field, then press the
[ENTER/SELECT] button.

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Selecting Tones for the real-time parts

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The numeric field is displayed in reverse.

3.

Rotate the dial to select the desired Tone.

If necessary, use the TONE buttons to select a differ­ent family.

The display now shows a page similar to the follow­ing:

Using the ‘Numeric’ function to select Tones, Rhythms and Performances

The “Numeric” function can be used to enter the number
of the Tone, Rhythm or Performance memory you want
to use, which is faster than scrolling with the
[CURSOR÷VALUE] dial.

This function is automatically activated when you call
up a display or mode where using it makes sense. Below
please find an example that shows you how to use the
“Numeric” function for selecting Tones.

NOTE

For Tone selection, it would be a good idea to check on the
main page which real-time part is currently selected to ensure
that you don’t select a Tone for the wrong part.
To select a different Tone for the Upper2 or Lower part, you
can simply press and hold the [UP2] and [LWR] button while
using the following procedure.

In the following example, we will assign a different
sound to the Upper1 part.

You can also use the “Numeric” function (see below)
to select the desired Tone. In that case, you need to
confirm your selection by pressing the BK-5 button.

Pressing the same TONE button several times allows
you to select the first sound of the various categories
within that family (“NaturalPiano”‰ “Vintage EP1”‰
“Clav-1”…).

4.

Press [EXIT] to leave the Tone selection
page.

The display returns to the main page where the name
of the newly selected Tone is shown.

On the main page, you can also use the “Numeric”
function to select Tones. The procedure is as follows:

(a) Use the [CURSOR÷VALUE] dial to select the numeric

field of the part you wish to assign a different Tone
to.

(b) Press the [NUMERIC] button (a pop-up window is dis-

played).

(c) Use the [0]~[9] button to enter the number of the

Tone you want to use.

(d) Press the [ENTER/SELECT] button to confirm.

1.

Press the button of the Tone family that
contains the Tone you want to select
([PIANO/E.PIANO], for example).

NOTE

By pressing and holding one of these buttons, you activate
the lock function for Tone selection, which means that
Tones no longer change when you select Performance
memories (page 54).

The display changes to:

NOTE

You can also select the BK-5’s Tones via MIDI. Be aware,
however, that if the BK-5 receives a sound select cluster
(bank select + program change message) for which there is
no Tone, the display shows “---” instead of a Tone name
and the real-time part in question no longer sounds.

25

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Playing the BK-5’s real-time parts

2.

Press the [NUMERIC] button to open the
following window:

2.

Press and hold the [NUMERIC] button to call
up a pop-up window.

The TONE buttons light.

3.

Press the TONE buttons that correspond to
the figures you want to enter ([0]~[9]).

For Tones, you can enter up to 4 digits. To select Tone
6, for instance, simply pressing the [6] button is
enough (the display will show “0006”).

NOTE

If you make a mistake, the quickest way to correct it is by
pressing the [0] button four times (to enter “0000”) and
then restarting.

For Rhythms and Performance memories, up to 3
digits can be entered.

NOTE

If you try to enter more digits than possible for the current
item, a warning is displayed (“Tone doesn’t exist”).

4.

Press the [ENTER/SELECT] button to confirm
your entry.

The “Numeric” pop-up disappears and the display
jumps to the Tone (and family) you selected.

5.

Press the [EXIT] button to return to the main
page.

(Tone selection window) (Rhythm selection window)

3.

Press the [EXIT] button (or press [NUMERIC]
again) to return to the previous page.

Using the ‘Help’ function

Whenever the display shows a “? hold NUMERIC” mes­sage, the BK-5 can provide some explanations about the
parameters currently shown in the display. To view this
information, proceed as follows:

1.

Select a page where the above field is dis­played, then press and hold the [NUMERIC]
button.

Checking a Tone’s or rhythm’s MIDI address

Tones and rhythms can also be selected via MIDI. To this
effect, they use an “internal” address, which is not usu­ally displayed. For MIDI applications involving sequenc­ers or external controllers, knowing the “official” address
may come in handy. The BK-5 has a handy system that
provides this information instantly—there is thus no
need to look up the MIDI address in the tables at the end
of this manual.

1.

Select the Tone or Rhythm whose MIDI
address you need to know.

(Tone selection window) (Rhythm selection window)

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A pop-up window similar to the following appears:

2.

Press the [EXIT] button (or press [NUMERIC]
again) to close the “Help” window.

26

Backing Keyboard BK-5

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Rhythm functions

8. Rhythm functions

The BK-5 contains a function that plays back automatic accompaniments called “rhythms”. This section explains how to
take advantage of the BK-5’s accompaniments.

Volume balance between the backing and the real-time parts

If the rhythm accompaniment is too loud or too soft
with respect to the real-time parts you are using, you
can change the balance with the [BACKING] and [KEY­BOARD] buttons:

When the [BACKING] or [KEYBOARD] button is pressed,
the “BALANCE” pop-up window appears, showing the
current setting:

Using rhythms

The “interactive” aspect about the rhythms is that you
can change the key of the accompaniment simply by
playing different notes or chords. Additionally, you can
select different variations (more or less complex
arrangements) for the active rhythm. The BK-5 provides
several buttons for this.

■ START/STOP

This button is used to start and stop rhythm playback.
While a rhythm is running, the button’s indicator
flashes red on the first beat of each bar, and green on
the remaining beats.

NOTE

You can also start (and stop) rhythm playback simply by
playing on the keyboard. See the next function. (The Start/
Stop function can also be assigned to an optional foot­switch.)

After about 3 seconds, the pop-up window disappears
again.

About the rhythms

The BK-5 can generate interactive accompaniments
based on the rhythm you select. Each rhythm is a typical
accompaniment for a given musical genre. The BK-5
comes with over 300 internal rhythms divided over 6
families (see the RHYTHM FAMILY section on the front
panel).

The melodic accompaniment parts of the selected
rhythms follow the chords you play on the keyboard.

■ SYNC START

This button activates and switches off the “Sync
Start” or “Sync Start/Stop” function. Pressing it sev­eral times allows you to select one of the following
options:

Function

Sync Start Lights red Rhythm playback can be

[SYNC START]

indicator

Explanation

started by playing a note or
chord. Press [START/STOP] to
stop rhythm playback.

27

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Rhythm functions

Function

Sync Start/
Stop

— Dark Rhythm playback needs to be

[SYNC START]

indicator

Lights green Rhythm playback can be

Explanation

started by playing a note or
chord. Playback will stop when
you release all keys.

started and stopped using the
[START/STOP] button (or the
assigned optional footswitch).

■ VARIATION [1], [2], [3], [4]

These buttons are used to select the complexity
(number of parts) of the rhythm’s arrangement:

VARIATION

[1] The simplest accompaniment pattern. A

[2] A slightly more complex pattern you may

[3] This pattern would be a good choice for

[4] This is the most complex arrangement.

Explanation

good choice for the first of the songs you
play.

want to use for subsequent verses.

the first chorus.

Consider selecting it for the bridge or the
final chorus sections of a song.

■ INTRO

Selects an introduction, which is usually used at the
beginning of a song. You can, however, also select
this pattern for other song sections. The behavior of
the Intro pattern depends on when you press the
[INTRO] button:

[INTRO] Behavior

Pressed before
starting rhythm
playback

Pressed during
rhythm playback

The indicator lights.
When you start rhythm playback, the
Arranger first plays a musical intro­duction. (This pattern is played back
only once).

The indicator flashes to signal that
the INTRO pattern will begin on the
next downbeat.
When the intro is finished, the BK-5
returns to the previously selected
VARIATION pattern.

There are, in fact, four different INTRO patterns, that
can be selected using the VARIATION [1], [2], [3] and
[4] buttons. Again, the VARIATION buttons determine
the complexity of the intro arrangement.

■ ENDING

Note that the VARIATION patterns are repeated
(played back in a loop) until select a different pattern
or stop rhythm playback.

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28

This button allows you to end your songs with a suit­able closing section if you don’t want to simply stop
playback. The behavior of the Ending pattern depends
on when you press the [ENDING] button:

[ENDING] Behavior

Pressed before
starting rhythm
playback

The indicator lights.
When you start rhythm playback, the
Arranger plays a musical ending. At
the end of the phrase, playback stops.

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Selecting rhythms

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[ENDING] Behavior

Pressed during
rhythm playback

There are four different ENDING patterns, that can be
selected using the VARIATION [1], [2], [3] and [4] but­tons. Again, the VARIATION buttons determine the
complexity of the arrangement.

The indicator flashes to signal that
the ENDING pattern will begin on the
next downbeat.
When the ending is finished, rhythm
playback stops.

■ BASS INV

This button is used to switch the “Bass Inversion”
function on or off. While the button is dark, the
rhythm’s bass part always plays the fundamental of
your notes or chords. Example: if you play a chord
consisting of the notes C, E and G (which is recog­nized as a C major chord), the bass part plays a C.

If the [BASS INV] button lights, the rhythm’s bass
part uses the lowest notes of the chords you play.
Example: if you play a chord consisting of the notes
E, G and C (still a C major chord), the bass part plays
an E. This function therefore gives you more artistic
licence.

Selecting rhythms

1.

Press a RHYTHM FAMILY button to select
the rhythm family.

NOTE

By pressing and holding one of these buttons, you activate
the lock function for rhythm selection, which means that
rhythms no longer change when you select Performance
memories (see p. 54).

The display shows a list of the rhythms that belong to
this family. If the currently selected rhythms belongs
to the family whose button you pressed, its name is
displayed in reverse and the indicator of the button
you pressed lights:

If you press a different RHYTHM FAMILY button, the
display shows the beginning of the associated list
(but the indicator of the associated family button
doesn’t light):

■ AUTO FILL IN

When this button lights, the BK-5 plays a transition
before switching to the newly selected VARIATION
pattern. Example: if the VARIATION [1] pattern is run­ning, pressing the [4] button will not switch to that
pattern right away—the BK-5 first plays a fill-in to
announce the new song section.

NOTE

The duration of the fill-ins (transitions) can be halved if you
like. See “Fill In Half Bar” on p. 63. You can also speed up or
slow down playback during a fill-in. See “Fill Ritardando”
on p. 63.

2.

Rotate the [CURSOR÷VALUE] dial to select
the desired rhythm, then press [ENTER/
SELECT] to confirm your selection.

The indicator of the selected family button lights.

29

Backing Keyboard BK-5

Rhythm functions

NOTE

The “Help” function is available in this environment (see
p. 26). You can also press and hold [NUMERIC] to check the
MIDI address of the selected rhythm (see p. 26).

Playing back rhythms

Let us now take a closer look at the interactive aspects
of the BK-5’s rhythms and at how to use them.

1.

Switch on the BK-5 (see p. 20).

2.

Set the BK-5’s [VOLUME] knob to a reason­able level (about 1/4).

3.

Press the [SPLIT] button if you want to play
in Split mode.

4.

Select the rhythm you want to use (see
p. 29).

5.

Press the [INTRO] button (it lights) to start
rhythm playback with an introduction.

The main page displays the name of the last chord
the BK-5 recognized:

8.

Press the [START/STOP] button to start
rhythm playback.

The [START/STOP] indicator lights and the BK-5 starts
playing back the introductory phrase.

9.

Play different chords on the keyboard and
listen to the effect this has on the rhythm.

10.

Switch on the [AUTO FILL IN] button (it
lights).

This means that when you select a different VARIA­TION pattern, the BK-5 will play a transition (fill-in)
before switching to the new pattern.

11.

Press a VARIATION [1], [2], [3] or [4] button
to select a more complex or a simpler
accompaniment.

6.

Press the VARIATION [1], [2], [3] or [4] but­ton to select the complexity of the INTRO
pattern.

7.

Play a chord on the keyboard.

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30

• If you press it before the last beat of the current
measure, the fill-in starts immediately and lasts until
the end of the current measure, then the newly
selected VARIATION pattern is played back.

• If you press the desired VARIATION button on the last
beat of a bar, the fill-in starts at the next downbeat
and lasts an entire bar. Only then will the BK-5 switch
to the newly selected VARIATION pattern.

12.

If necessary, you can change the rhythm’s
tempo: