Roland Fantom-Xa User Manual

201a

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “USING THE UNIT SAFELY”

and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (p. 2; p. 4). 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.

Listening to the Demo Song

fig.Cover.e

1. Hold down [SHIFT] and press [MENU].

2. Use [CURSOR] to select a song.

3. Press [ENTER] to start demo song playback.

To stop the song, press [EXIT].

2. Select

3. Play

Stop

1

Owner’s Manual

Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the Roland Fantom-Xa.

985

* The explanations in this manual include illustrations that depict what should typically be shown by the display. Note, however, that your

unit may incorporate a newer, enhanced version of the system (e.g., includes newer sounds), so what you actually see in the display may
not always match what appears in the manual.

202

Copyright © 2004 ROLAND CORPORATION

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

written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION.

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

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

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

* Material damage refers to damage or

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

001

• Before using this unit, make sure to read the instruc­tions below, and the Owner’s Manual.

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

002d

• Do not open or perform any internal modifications on
the unit or its AC adaptor. (The only exception would be
where this manual provides specific instructions which
should be followed in order to put in place user­installable options; see p. 214, p. 216.)

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

003

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

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

004

• Never use or store the unit in places that are:

• 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

• Humid; or are

• Exposed to rain; or are

• Dusty; or are

• Subject to high levels of vibration.

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

005

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

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

006

• 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.

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

008c

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

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

008e

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

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

009

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

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

010

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

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

2

011

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

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

012b

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

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

has been damaged; or

• If smoke or unusual odor occurs

• Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been spilled

onto the unit; or

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

become wet); or

• The unit does not appear to operate normally or

exhibits a marked change in performance.

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

013

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

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

014

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

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

015

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

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

016

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

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

022b

• Always turn the unit off and unplug the AC adaptor
before attempting installation of the circuit board (SRX
series; p. 214, DIMM; p. 216).

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

023

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

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

101b

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

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

101c

• This unit for use only with Roland stand KS-12. Use
with other stands (or carts) is capable of resulting in
instability causing possible injury.

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

102c

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

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

103b

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

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

104

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

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

106

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

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

107c

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

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

108b

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

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

109b

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

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

110b

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

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

115a

• Install only the specified circuit board (SRX series,
DIMM). Remove only the specified screws (p. 214, p.

216).

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

118a

• Should you remove the ground terminal screw or
screws that fasten the bottom cover or the PC card
protector, keep them in a safe place out of children’s
reach, so there is no chance of them being swallowed
accidentally.

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

3

IMPORTANT NOTES

291a

In addition to the items listed under “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” on pages 2–3, please read and observe the following:

Power Supply

301

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

302

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

307

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

Placement

351

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

352a

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

352b

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

354a

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

355b

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

358

• 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.

Maintenance

401a

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

402

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

Repairs and Data

452

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

Additional Precautions

551

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

552

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

553

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

554

• Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.

556

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

558a

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

559a

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

561

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

562

• Use a cable from Roland to make the connection. If using some
other make of connection cable, please note the following precau­tions.

• 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.

566a

• 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.

566b

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

4

Before Using Cards

Using Memory Cards

704

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

705

• Never touch the terminals of the memory card. Also, avoid
getting the terminals dirty.

707

• This unit’s memory card slot accepts CompactFlash or Smart­Media (3.3 V). Microdrive storage media are not compatible.

708

• CompactFlash and SmartMedia (3.3 V) cards are constructed
using precision components; handle the cards carefully, paying
particular note to the following.

• To prevent damage to the cards from static electricity, be sure
to discharge any static electricity from your own body before
handling the cards.

• Do not touch or allow metal to come into contact with the
contact portion of the cards.

• Do not bend, drop, or subject cards to strong shock or
vibration.

• Do not keep cards in direct sunlight, in closed vehicles, or
other such locations (storage temperature: -25 to 85˚ C).

• Do not allow cards to become wet.

• Do not disassemble or modify the cards.

IMPORTANT NOTES

Handling CD-ROMs

801

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

Copyright

851

• Unauthorized recording, distribution, sale, lending, public
performance, broadcasting, or the like, in whole or in part, of a
work (musical composition, video, broadcast, public perfor­mance, or the like) whose copyright is held by a third party is
prohibited by law.

853

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

220

* All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or

registered trademarks of their respective owners.

230

* SmartMedia is a trademark of Toshiba Corp.

234

* CompactFlash and are trademarks of SanDisk Corpo-

ration and licensed by CompactFlash association.

235

* Roland Corporation is an authorized licensee of the

CompactFlash™ and CF logo ( ) trademarks.

237

* V-LINK ( ) is a trademark of Roland Corpo-

ration.

5

Contents

USING THE UNIT SAFELY......................................................................2

IMPORTANT NOTES ...............................................................................4

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

Panel Descriptions................................................................................12

Front Panel................................................................................................................................................. 12

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

Getting Ready........................................................................................15

Connections............................................................................................................................................... 15

Turning On/Off the Power..................................................................................................................... 16

Adjusting the Display Contrast (LCD Contrast).................................................................................. 16

Listening to the Demo Songs ..............................................................17

Various Performance Features............................................................18

Overview of the Fantom-Xa..................................................................19

How the Fantom-Xa Is Organized ......................................................................................................... 19

About Memory.......................................................................................................................................... 21

About the Onboard Effects ..................................................................................................................... 22

About the Sequencer................................................................................................................................ 23

About the Sampling Section.................................................................................................................... 25

Basic Operation of the Fantom-Xa ......................................................26

Switching the Sound Generator Mode ..................................................................................................26

About the Function Buttons.................................................................................................................... 26

Moving the Cursor ................................................................................................................................... 27

Changing a Value ..................................................................................................................................... 27

Assigning a Name ....................................................................................................................................28

Playing in Patch Mode..........................................................................29

About the PATCH PLAY Screen............................................................................................................ 29

Selecting a Patch .......................................................................................................................................30

Selecting Patches from the List............................................................................................................... 30

Selecting Favorite Patches/Rhythm Sets (Favorite Patch) .................................................................31

Selecting Patches by Category................................................................................................................ 32

Transposing the Keyboard in Octave Units (Octave Shift) ................................................................ 33

Transposing the Keyboard in Semitone Steps (Transpose)................................................................ 33

Selecting the Tones That Will Sound (Tone On/Off).......................................................................... 33

Playing Single Notes (Monophonic)...................................................................................................... 34

Creating Smooth Pitch Changes (Portamento) ....................................................................................34

Playing Percussion Instruments............................................................................................................. 34

Selecting the Parameter Controlled by the Realtime Controllers or D Beam Controller

(Control Setting) .......................................................................................................................................34

Creating a Patch....................................................................................35

How to Make Patch Settings................................................................................................................... 35

Saving Patches You’ve Created (Write) ................................................................................................37

Functions of Patch Parameters ...............................................................................................................38

6

Contents

Creating a Rhythm Set .........................................................................55

How to Make Rhythm Set Settings........................................................................................................ 55

Saving Rhythm Sets You’ve Created (Write) .......................................................................................57

Functions of Rhythm Set Parameters .................................................................................................... 58

Playing in Performance Mode..............................................................66

Displaying PERFORM LAYER Screen .................................................................................................. 66

Displaying PERFORM MIXER Screen................................................................................................... 66

Functions in the PERFORMANCE LAYER/MIXER Screen .............................................................. 66

Selecting a Performance........................................................................................................................... 67

Using the LAYER Screen......................................................................................................................... 68

Combining and Playing Sounds Together (Layer).............................................................................. 69

Playing Different Sounds in Different Areas of the Keyboard (Split) ..............................................69

Using the MIXER Screen .........................................................................................................................70

Silencing the Playback of a Specific Part (Mute).................................................................................. 71

Creating a Performance .......................................................................72

Adjusting the Parameters of Each Part ................................................................................................. 72

Changing the Settings of the Patch Assigned to a Part....................................................................... 72

Saving a Performance You’ve Created (Write) .................................................................................... 72

Functions of Parameters of Each Part (Performance Parameters)..................................................... 73

Settings for the Realtime Controllers and D Beam Controller........................................................... 78

MIDI Settings ............................................................................................................................................79

Modifying the Sound in Real Time ......................................................80

D Beam Controller.................................................................................................................................... 80

Realtime Controller ..................................................................................................................................83

Control Pedal ............................................................................................................................................ 85

Playing Arpeggios ................................................................................86

About Arpeggio........................................................................................................................................ 86

Playing Arpeggios.................................................................................................................................... 86

Arpeggio Settings ..................................................................................................................................... 87

Creating an Arpeggio Style (Arpeggio Style Edit) ..............................................................................90

Saving the Styles You Have Created (Write)........................................................................................ 91

Using the Chord Memory Function .....................................................92

About the Chord Memory Function...................................................................................................... 92

Performing with the Chord Memory Function.................................................................................... 92

Creating Your Own Chord Forms .........................................................................................................93

Saving the Chord Forms You Have Created........................................................................................ 93

Playing Rhythms...................................................................................94

About Rhythm Patterns........................................................................................................................... 94

Using Rhythm Groups............................................................................................................................. 94

Playing Rhythm ........................................................................................................................................94

Rhythm Pattern Settings.......................................................................................................................... 96

Creating a Rhythm Pattern (Rhythm Pattern Edit) ............................................................................. 97

Saving the Rhythm Pattern You Have Created (Write)...................................................................... 98

Creating a Rhythm Group (Rhythm Group Edit)................................................................................ 99

Saving the Rhythm Group You Have Created (Write)....................................................................... 99

7

Contents

Sampling..............................................................................................100

Sampling Procedure............................................................................................................................... 100

External Input Settings ..........................................................................................................................101

Skip Back Sampling................................................................................................................................ 103

Editing a Sample .................................................................................104

Sample List .............................................................................................................................................. 104

Sample Edit ............................................................................................................................................. 106

Assigning Samples to a Pad (Assign to Pad)...................................................................................... 112

Assigning a Sample as a Patch to a Part (Assign to Keyboard)....................................................... 113

Create a Rhythm Set (Create Rhythm) ................................................................................................ 114

Creating a Multisample (Create Multisample) ..................................................................................114

Saving a Sample (Write) ........................................................................................................................ 116

Using the Pads ....................................................................................117

Using the Hold Function to Sustain a Sound ..................................................................................... 117

Making Settings for the Pads (Pad Setting) ........................................................................................ 117

Assigning a Pattern to a Pad (RPS Function) .....................................................................................118

Using the Pads to Play Rhythms.......................................................................................................... 118

Playing Back a Song...........................................................................119

Playing a Song Immediately (Quick Play).......................................................................................... 119

Playing Back Songs Consecutively (Chain Play) ............................................................................... 119

Various Playback Methods ...................................................................................................................120

Recording Songs ................................................................................122

Before You Record a New Song ...........................................................................................................122

Recording Your Performance as You Play It (Realtime Recording) ...............................................124

Inputting Data One Step at a Time (Step Recording)........................................................................ 128

Editing Songs......................................................................................131

Loading the Song You Want to Edit ....................................................................................................131

Editing Sequencer Data Over the Specified Range (Track Edit) ..................................................... 133

Editing Individual Items of Sequencer Data (Micro Edit)................................................................ 144

Assigning a Name to a Song (Song Name)......................................................................................... 149

Saving/Loading a Song (Save/Load).................................................150

Saving a Song (Save) .............................................................................................................................. 150

Saving a Song as an SMF File (Save as SMF)...................................................................................... 152

Loading a Song (Load)........................................................................................................................... 153

Playing a Phrase at the Touch of a Finger (RPS).............................154

Before You Use the RPS Function ........................................................................................................ 154

Using the RPS Function While You Perform...................................................................................... 156

8

Contents

Adding Effects.....................................................................................157

Turning Effects On and Off................................................................................................................... 157

Making Effect Settings ........................................................................................................................... 157

Applying Effects in Patch Mode .......................................................................................................... 158

Applying Effects in Performance Mode.............................................................................................. 160

Making Multi-Effects Settings (MFX1–3)............................................................................................ 162

Making Multi-Effects Settings (MFX Control) ...................................................................................162

Specifying the Multi-Effects Structure (MFX Structure)................................................................... 163

Multi-Effects Parameters .......................................................................................................................164

Making Chorus Settings ........................................................................................................................ 189

Making Reverb Settings......................................................................................................................... 190

Mastering Effect...................................................................................................................................... 191

Settings Common to All Modes (System Function) ........................192

How to Make System Function Settings ............................................................................................. 192

Saving the System Settings (System Write) ........................................................................................ 192

System Information................................................................................................................................ 192

Functions of System Parameters ..........................................................................................................193

Data Management Functions/

Reset to Factory Settings (Factory Reset) .......................................203

Backing Up User Data (User Backup) .................................................................................................203

Restoring User Data that You Backed Up (User Restore) ................................................................ 203

Factory Reset ........................................................................................................................................... 203

Initializing a Memory Card (Card Format) ........................................................................................ 203

File-Related Functions (File Utility)...................................................204

Basic Procedure....................................................................................................................................... 204

Copying a File (Copy)............................................................................................................................ 205

Deleting a File (Delete) .......................................................................................................................... 205

Moving a File (Move)............................................................................................................................. 205

Initializing a Memory Card (Card Format) ........................................................................................ 205

Connecting to Your Computer via USB ............................................206

About USB Functions............................................................................................................................. 206

Switching the USB Storage Mode and the MIDI Mode .................................................................... 206

Transferring Files to or from Your Computer (Storage Mode) ....................................................... 207

Exchanging MIDI Messages with Your Computer (MIDI Mode)................................................... 209

Using Fantom-X Editor .......................................................................210

Installing Fantom-X Editor into Your Computer............................................................................... 210

Making Connections .............................................................................................................................. 210

Using Fantom-X Librarian .................................................................................................................... 210

Fantom-X Editor System Requirements.............................................................................................. 211

About V-LINK.......................................................................................212

What is V-LINK? .................................................................................................................................... 212

Connection Example .............................................................................................................................. 212

Turning the V-LINK ON/OFF ............................................................................................................. 212

V-LINK Settings...................................................................................................................................... 212

9

10

Main Features

The Fantom-Xa is a high-quality workstation synthesizer that makes
pro-quality sound, playability, and compositional power available to
everyone. The latest sound generator, versatile effects, a powerful
sequencer, and a sampler that lets you record, process and play
vocals or audio phrases—all brought together in a user-friendly
system. The features listed below make the Fantom-Xa a great choice
for any style of music, in applications ranging from stage
performance to composition and arranging.

The latest sound engine with 128­voice polyphony

The Fantom-Xa provides 128 voices of polyphony—the standard for
the new era. You’ll have plenty of power for multitrack sequencer
recording and for layering complex sounds. The sound engine melds
the latest synthesizer technology with a sampler. Sampled
waveforms imported from your computer or other external device
can be synthesized just like the internal waveforms.

Highly expandable waveform
memory

To supplement the Fantom-Xa’s numerous new patches created
from the carefully selected high-quality built-in waveforms, you can
install one wave expansion board. Depending on your needs and
your favorite musical styles, you can choose one board from the
wide variety of professionally acclaimed Roland SRX series boards
now available.

The sampler section provides 4 MB (approximately 47 seconds in
monaural) of memory as standard, letting you sample immediately
without having to install any options. You can install optional
DIMM memory (up to 512 MB) to expand the sampling time to up to
one and a half hours (monaural).

A full-fledged sampler section with
Skip Back Sampling

The Fantom-Xa provides serious sampler functionality that rivals
dedicated units, with sampling, resampling, and waveform editing
in a graphic display.

Roland’s proprietary Skip Back Sampling function lets you
“retrospectively” capture a cool phrase that just played and would
like to keep. Your inspired moments need never be lost again!

There’s also an Auto Sync function, which matches a phrase sample
to the measure length at the current tempo, and a Solo Sampling
function, which lets you sample only an external vocal or guitar
performance while listening to an accompaniment played by the
internal sequencer. Both WAV and AIFF are supported as external
wave formats, making it easy to transfer waveform data to and from
PC or Mac.

Plenty of external interfacing

Built-in high-resolution 16-track
sequencer

The internal 16-track sequencer lets you record as soon as inspiration
strikes—no need to think about entering any complex sequencer
modes. Loop Recording lets you record each part without stopping,
and you can use the Part Track buttons to quickly select each part
and switch it on/off. The Fantom-Xa is designed to let your creative
imagination flow freely into songs. In addition, songs you created on
your computer-based sequencer (SMF format) can be transferred via
PC card or USB into the Fantom-Xa, and used to play backing tracks
while you play live on stage.

Trigger/Category pads

The Trigger/Category pads are a convenient feature that can also be
used as a numeric key pad. You can use them to play percussion
sounds or hits during a live performance, to trigger Realtime Phrase
Sequences (RPS), or you can assign the pads to play skipback­sampled audio phrases.

Powerful effects including
mastering functionality

The Fantom-Xa provides three multi-effects processors (78 types),
plus independent chorus and reverb processors. There’s a mastering
effect, indispensable for adding the final touch to your production,
bringing your sound CD-master level impact and audio quality.

Versatile sound control
functionality

The versatile array of controllers includes a D Beam controller as
well as realtime control knobs and assignable switches to which you
can freely assign functions. There’s also a hold pedal jack that can
detect half-damper operation. The Fantom-Xa gives you complete
control over your on-stage sound.

Fantom-X Editor/Librarian is
included

Dedicated editor/librarian software is included, letting you edit and
manage Fantom-Xa sounds from the large screen of your computer.

V-LINK functionality

V-LINK allows you to synchronize music and video, opening up
completely new performance possibilities.

When used in combination with a V-LINK capable video device
(such as the Edirol DV-7PR, PR-50, or V-4), you can use the realtime
controllers and pads of the Fantom-Xa to control video as part of the
act of playing music.

The rear panel USB connector supports both file transfer and USB­MIDI, and can be switched as desired. There’s also a PC card slot
that can accommodate SmartMedia or CompactFlash via a
commercially available adaptor. You can use a card to store as much
as 1 GB of data (when using CompactFlash).

GM/GM2 compatibility

The Fantom-Xa is compatible with GM/GM2, and is able to play
back music data that complies with the GM/GM2 standard (GM
scores).

11

Panel Descriptions

Front Panel

fig.Front

3 4

1

7 11 13 14

6

10

8

2

5

15

1

D BEAM

Switches D Beam function on/off. You can apply a variety of effects
to sounds simply by moving your hand (p. 80).

[PAD TRIGGER]

You can use the D Beam controller to control the sounding of the
pads (p. 82).

[SOLO SYNTH]

Play the Fantom-Xa as a monophonic synthesizer (p. 81).

[ASSIGNABLE]

You can assign a variety of parameters and functions to D Beam to
modify the sound in realtime (p. 82).

* Hold down [SHIFT] and press one of the corresponding buttons to

access the D BEAM setting screen.

2

VOLUME knob

Adjusts the overall volume that is output from the rear panel
OUTPUT A (MIX) jacks and PHONES jack (p. 16).

[V-LINK]

Switches the V-LINK function on/off (p. 212).
Press this button to access the V-LINK setting screen.

3

ARP/RHY

BEAT (Beat Indicator)

This blinks in sync with the tempo and beat.

[ARPEGGIO]

Switches the ARPEGGIO on/off (p. 86).

[HOLD]

Switches the Arpeggio Hold function on/off (p. 87).

[RHYTHM]

Switches the RHYTHM on/off (p. 94).

* Hold down [SHIFT] and press [ARPEGGIO] or [RHYTHM] to

access ARPEGGIO or RHYTHM setting screen.

4

REALTIME CONTROL

REALTIME CONTROL knob ( )

Depending on the parameter or function that is assigned, you can
use the knobs to modify the sound in realtime (p. 83).

9

ASSIGNABLE switch ([ ], [ ])

Use these buttons to switch the assigned parameter or function to
modify the sound in realtime (p. 84).

* Hold down [SHIFT] and press (or rotate) one of the above switches (or

knobs) to access the corresponding setting screen.

[OCTAVE] (+/-)

Transposes the pitch of the keyboard in 1 octave units (-3– +3
octaves) (p. 33).

* Hold down [SHIFT] and press [OCTAVE] to transposes the pitch in

semitones (p. 33).

5

SEQUENCER

Perform sequencer operations such as playback and record.

[TEMPO]

Sets the tempo (BPM) (p. 120, p. 123).

[PATTERN]

Lets you edit or record patterns (p. 123, p. 124, p. 128).

[LOOP PLAY]

Turns Loop Play on/off (p. 121).

[ERASE/UNDO]

Cancels the most recent song edit or recording operation.

[]

Moves the song position to the top. If you press this during
playback, you will return to the beginning of the song and stop (p.

120).

[] []

Moves the song position to the first beat of the previous or next
measure (p. 120).

[]

Controls sequencer stop.

[]

Controls sequencer play.

* While stopped, you can hold down [SHIFT] and Press [ ] to

perform MIDI Update (p. 120).

[]

The display changes to the Recording Standby window. (p. 124, p.

128)
If you press this during recording, the Rehearsal function will be

activated (p. 127).

12

12

Panel Descriptions

6

[CHORD MEMORY]

Switches the CHORD MEMORY on/off (p. 92).

[RPS]

Switches RPS on/off (p. 154).

* Hold down [SHIFT] and press [CHORD MEMORY] or [RPS] to

access the CHORD MEMORY or RPS setting screen.

7

Display

This displays information regarding the operation you are
performing.

8

[MENU]

Opens the MENU. The contents of the menu will depend on the
current mode.

Function buttons ([F1]–[F6])

During editing, these buttons execute a variety of functions, and
their function will differ depending on the screen.

[PAGE]

When this button is lit, you can use this to switch the screen.

* Hold down [SHIFT] and press [PAGE] to access the LCD Contrast

setting screen (p. 16).

9

PART/TRACK

[SELECT]

If you press this in Performance mode, buttons [1]–[8] will function
as Part Select buttons (p. 68, p. 70).

[MUTE]

If you press this in Performance mode, buttons [1]–[8] will function
as Mute buttons (p. 71, p. 120).

[1]–[4] (TONE SW [1]–[4])

In Performance mode, these correspond to parts 1–4 (9–12).
In Patch mode, they turn tones or waves on/off (p. 33).

[5]–[8] (TONE SELECT [1]–[4])

In Performance mode, these correspond to parts 5–8 (13–16).
In Patch mode, they select the tone or wave to edit (p. 35, p. 55).

[9-16]

If you press this in Performance mode so it’s lighted, buttons [1]–[8]
will correspond to parts 9–16.

11

[MIXER]

View the Performance mode’s Mixer screen (p. 70).

[LAYER/SPLIT]

View the Performance mode’s Layer screen (p. 68).

[PATCH/RHYTHM]

Enter Patch/Rhythm mode (p. 29).

12

VALUE Dial

This is used to modify values. If you hold down [SHIFT] as you turn
the VALUE dial, the value will change in greater increments.

[DEC], [INC]

This is used to modify values. If you keep on holding down one
button while pressing the other, the value change accelerates. If you
press one of these buttons while holding down [SHIFT], the value
will change in bigger increments (p. 27).

[CURSOR] ( , , , )

Moves the cursor location up/down/left/right (p. 27).

[EXIT]

Return to the previous screen, or close the currently open window.
In some screens, this causes the currently executing function to be
aborted.

[ENTER]

Use this button to execute an operation.

TRIGGER/CATEGORY

PAD [1]–[9]

Use these to play tones or samples, or to start patterns.

[HOLD] (PAD [0])

Turn “hold” (sustaining the sound after you release the pad) on/off
(p. 117).

[TRIGGER]

If you press this so it’s lighted, pads [1]–[9] will play tones or
samples.

[CATEGORY]

If you press this so it’s lighted, pads [0]–[9] will select patch
categories (p. 32)

* If you together press [TRIGGER] and [CATEGORY] so both are

lighted, you can use pads [0]–[9] as a numeric keypad to enter
numeric values (p. 27).

10

[WRITE]

Save edited settings into Temporary Area or a memory card (p. 37, p.
57, p. 72, p. 91, p. 93, p. 116, p. 150).

[PATCH SELECT]

View the PATCH SELECT screen (p. 31).

[PATCH EDIT]

Make patch-related settings (p. 35).

[SONG]

Make settings for song data and song edit (p. 119).

[EFFECTS]

Make effect-related settings (p. 157).

[SHIFT] (JUMP)

This button is used in conjunction with other buttons to execute
various functions.

SAMPLING

[MIX IN]

Switches the external input on/off (p. 101).

* Hold down [SHIFT] and press this button to access the INPUT

setting screen.

[SAMPLE]

View the SAMPLE EDIT or SAMPLE LIST screen (p. 104, p. 106).

[SAMPLING]

View the Sampling Menu screen (p. 100).

[SKIP BACK SAMPLING]

Sample the performance for a specified duration prior to the moment
you pressed the button (p. 103).

Pitch Bend/Modulation Lever

This allows you to control pitch bend or apply vibrato (p. 18).

13

Panel Descriptions

Rear Panel

fig.Rear

Ground Terminal

927

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

Unsuitable places for connection

• Water pipes (may result in shock or electrocution)

• Gas pipes (may result in fire or explosion)

• Telephone-line ground or lightning rod (may be dangerous in

the event of lightning)

POWER ON Switch

Press to turn the power on/off (p. 16).

DC IN Jack

Connect the AC adaptor here (p. 15).
Be sure to use only the supplied AC adaptor.

Cord Hook

Anchor the cord of the AC adaptor (p. 15).

PC CARD Slot

A memory card can be inserted here (p. 218).

930

* Never insert or remove a memory card while this unit’s power is on.

Doing so may corrupt the unit’s data or the data on the memory card.

931

* Carefully insert the memory card all the way in—until it is firmly in

place.

USB Connector

This connector lets you use a USB cable to connect your computer to
the Fantom-Xa (p. 206).

CONTROL PEDAL Jack

You can connect optional expression pedals (EV-5, etc.) to these
jacks. By assigning a desired function to a pedal, you can use it to
select or modify sound or perform various other control. You can
also connect optional pedal switches (DP series etc.) to sustain sound
(p. 18).

925

* Use only the specified expression pedal (EV-5; sold separately). By

connecting any other expression pedals, you risk causing malfunction
and/or damage to the unit.

HOLD PEDAL Jack

An optional pedal switch (DP series etc.) can be connected to this
jack for use as a hold pedal (p. 18).

This can also be set so it supports the use of half-pedaling
techniques. So, after connecting an optional expression pedal (DP-8,
etc.), you can employ pedal work to achieve even finer control in
performances in which piano tones are used.

MIDI Connectors (IN, OUT, THRU)

These connectors can be connected to other MIDI devices to receive
and transmit MIDI messages.

LEVEL knob

Controls the volume of the external input.

AUDIO INPUT Jacks (L (MONO)/MIC, R)

Accept input of audio signals in stereo (L/R) from external devices.
If you want to use mono input, connect to the L jack.

When recording from a mic, connect it to the L jack, and set Input
Select (p. 100) to “MICROPHONE.”

926a

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

equipment connected to the AUDIO INPUT jacks may be low. If this
happens, use connection cables that do not contain resistors, such as
those from the Roland PCS series.

OUTPUT A (MIX) Jacks (L (MONO), R)

These jacks output the audio signal to the connected mixer/amplifier
system in stereo. For mono output, use the L jack (p. 15).

OUTPUT B Jacks (L, R)

These jacks output the audio signal to the connected mixer/amplifier
system in stereo.

INDIVIDUAL 1-4 Jacks

These jacks output audio signals in mono to an amp or mixer.
The setting determining whether these jacks are used as stereo

OUTPUT jacks or monaural INDIVIDUAL jacks is made with the
Output Assign setting (p. 158, p. 160).

PHONES Jack

This is the jack for connecting headphones (sold separately) (p. 15).

14

Getting Ready

Connections

Since Fantom-Xa contains no amplifier or speakers, you’ll need to

connect it to audio equipment such as a keyboard amplifier, monitor

speaker system or home stereo, or use headphones to hear its sound.

In order to fully experience the Fantom-Xa’s sound, we recommend

using a stereo amp/speaker system. If you’re using a mono system,

however, make your connections to the Fantom-Xa’s OUTPUT A

(MIX) jack L (MONO).

* Audio cables are not included with the Fantom-Xa. You’ll need to

provide them.

fig.Connect.e

921

To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other

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

on all devices before making any connections.

924

To prevent the inadvertent disruption of power to your unit

(should the plug be pulled out accidentally), and to avoid

applying undue stress to the AC adaptor jack, anchor the power

cord using the cord hook, as shown in the illustration.

15

Getting Ready

Turning On/Off the Power

941

* Once the connections have been completed (p. 15), turn on power to

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

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

speakers and other devices.

Before turning on the Fantom-Xa’s power, consider these

1.

two questions:

• Are all devices connected properly?

• Have the volume controls of the Fantom-Xa and all connected

audio devices been turned to their lowest settings?

2.

Turn on the POWER ON switch located on the rear panel of
the Fantom-Xa.

fig.PowerOn

942

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

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

normally.

* To ensure proper operation of the pitch bend lever, make sure not to

touch the lever when turning the Fantom-Xa’s power on.

1.

Before turning off the power, consider these two questions:

• Have the volume controls of the Fantom-Xa and all connected

audio devices been turned to their lowest settings?

• Have you saved your Fantom-Xa sounds or other data you’ve

created?

2.

Turn off the power for all connected audio devices.

3.

Turn off the POWER ON switch of the Fantom-Xa.

The characters in the display may be difficult to view immediately

after turning on the Fantom-Xa’s power or after extended use. Your

viewing angle or the current lighting conditions can also affect the

appearance of the display. In such situations, adjust the contrast of

the display.

1.

Hold down [SHIFT] and press [PAGE] to open the LCD
Contrast window.

2.

Turn the VALUE dial to adjust the contrast.

* If you want to keep the contrast of the display, save the setting in

internal system memory (p. 192).

3.

Turn on the power for any connected audio devices.

While playing the keyboard, gradually raise the volume of

4.

the Fantom-Xa and connected devices.

fig.Volume

16

Listening to the Demo Songs

The internal demo songs will feature the Fantom-Xa’s exceptional

sounds and effects.

1.

Press [MENU] to open the Top Menu Window.

fig.TopMenu

2.

Press to select “6. Demo Play.”

fig.DemoPlay

3.

Press [ENTER].

The DEMO MENU screen appears.

fig.DemoMenu

You can also access the DEMO MENU screen by holding down

[SHIFT] and pressing [MENU].

4.

Turn the VALUE dial or press [CURSOR] to select a song.

Press [ENTER] or [ ] to start playback.

5.

Playback will stop automatically when the song ends.

If you press [F6 (PLAY ALL)], the songs will playback

successively, beginning from the first.

* Press [EXIT] or [ ] to stop the demo song.

Press [EXIT] to return to the previous screen.

6.

For the names and copyright information of these demo songs,

refer to the Fantom-Xa’s display.

981a

* All rights reserved. Unauthorized use of this material for purposes

other than private, personal enjoyment is a violation of applicable

laws.

982

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

When you perform demo playback, any patch or performance

you may have been editing will be lost.

17

Various Performance Features

Velocity

The velocity—the force with which you play the keyboard—can

affect the volume or timbre of a sound.

Pitch Bend/Modulation Lever

While playing the keyboard, move the lever to the left to lower the

pitch of the currently selected patch, or to the right to raise its pitch

(

pitch bend

away from you (

If you push the lever away from you and at the same time move it to

the right or left, you can apply both effects at once.

fig.Bender.e

). You can also apply vibrato by gently pushing the lever

modulation

).

ModulationPitch Bend

Octave Shift

You can shift the pitch of the keyboard in one-octave units over a

range of +/-3 octaves.

• Press OCTAVE [+] or [-] at the left of the screen.

• To return to the original pitch, press both buttons

simultaneously.

Hold Pedal

If an optional pedal switch (DP series) is connected to the rear panel

PEDAL HOLD jack, you can press the pedal to cause notes to sustain

or “hold” even after their keys have been released.

fig.HoldPdl

Control Pedal

If an optional expression pedal or pedal switch (EV-5, DP-2) is

connected to the rear panel PEDAL CONTROL jack, you can use the

pedal to control the volume or various function.

fig.CtrlPdl

Transpose

You can transpose the pitch of the keyboard in semitone steps, over a

range of G–F# (-5– +6 semitones).

• Hold down [SHIFT] and press OCTAVE [+] or [-].

• To return to the original pitch, hold down [SHIFT] and press

both buttons simultaneously.

For details on pedal settings, refer to

(p. 85).

925

Use only the specified expression pedal or pedal switch (EV-5,

DP-2; sold separately). By connecting any other expression

pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the

unit.

Control Pedal Settings

18

Overview of the Fantom-Xa

WG

Pitch

Envelope

TVF

TVF

Envelope

TVA

Envelope

TVA

LFO 1 LFO 2

control signal

Tone

audio signal

How the Fantom-Xa Is Organized

Basic Structure

Broadly speaking, the Fantom-Xa consists of a controller section, a

sound generator section, a sequencer section, and a sampler section.

These sections are internally connected via MIDI.

fig.BasicStruct.e

Sequencer

Section

Controller Section (controllers
such as keyboard, pad, pitch bend lever, etc.)

Playback

Recording

Audio Input

Sampler

Section

Sound

Generator

Section

Play

Sampling

Resampling

Controller Section

Classification of Fantom-Xa Sound Types

When using the Fantom-Xa, you will notice that a variety of different

categories come into play when working with sounds. What follows

is a simple explanation of each sound category.

Tones

On the Fantom-Xa, the tones are the smallest unit of sound.

However, it is not possible to play a tone by itself. The patch is the

unit of sound which can be played, and the tones are the basic

building blocks which make up the patch.

fig.Tone.e

This section consists of the keyboard, pad, pitch bend/modulation

lever, panel knobs and buttons, and D Beam controller. It also

includes any pedals that may be connected to the rear panel. The

performance information generated when you do things such as

press/release a key or pad, or depress the hold pedal is converted

into MIDI messages and sent to the sound generator section,

sequencer section, and/or an external MIDI device.

Sound Generator Section

The sound generator section produces the sound. It receives MIDI

messages from the controller section and sequencer section and/or

from an external MIDI device, generates musical sound according to

the MIDI messages that were received, and outputs the sound from

the output jacks or headphones jack.

Sequencer Section

This section records operations of the controller section as MIDI
messages, and transmits the recorded MIDI messages to the sound
generator section. MIDI messages recorded on the sequencer can
also be transmitted from the MIDI OUT connector to allow the
Fantom-Xa to also control external MIDI devices.

Sampler section

A sampler is a device that captures sounds from a CD player or mic

connected to the input (or sounds from a wave file) as “samples.”

Samples you record can be used in the same way as the waveforms

that are built into the internal sound generator (p. 100).

The Fantom-Xa can load WAV or AIFF format wave files as samples

via a USB connection. Loaded sample can be used in patches or

rhythm sets.

Tones consist of the following five components.

WG (Wave Generator)

Specifies the PCM waveform (wave) that is the basis of the sound,

and determines how the pitch of the sound will change.

The Fantom-Xa has 1228 different waveforms. All patches built into

the Fantom-Xa consist of combinations of tones which are created

based on these waveforms.

* There are four wave generators for each rhythm tone (percussion

instrument sounds).

TVF (Time Variant Filter)

Specifies how the frequency components of the sound will change.

TVA (Time Variant Amplifier)

Specifies the volume changes and the sound’s position in a stereo

soundfield.

Envelope

You use Envelope to initiate changes to occur to a sound over time.

There are separate envelopes for Pitch, TVF (filter), and TVA

(volume). For example if you wish to modify the way in which the

sound attacks or decays over time, you would adjust the TVA

envelope.

19

Overview of the Fantom-Xa

Patch

Tone 4

Tone 3

Tone 2

Tone 1

WG

Pitch

Envelope

TVF

TVF

Envelope

TVA

Envelope

TVA

LFO 1 LFO 2

Performance

Part 16

Part 1

Patch/

Rhythm Set

LAYER/SPLIT
MIXER

LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator)

Use the LFO to create cyclic changes (modulation) in a sound. The
Fantom-Xa has two LFOs. You can use the LFO to apply an effect to
either the WG (pitch), the TVF (filter), or the TVA (volume). When
an LFO is applied to the WG pitch, a vibrato effect is produced.
When an LFO is applied to the TVF cutoff frequency, a wah effect is
produced. When an LFO is applied to the TVA volume, a tremolo
effect is produced.

* LFO is not included in the rhythm tones (percussion instrument

sounds).

Patches

Patches are the basic sound configurations that you play during a
performance. Each patch can be configured by combining up to four
tones. How the four tones are combined is determined by the
Structure Type parameter (p. 38).

fig.Patch.e

Each percussion instrument consists of the following four elements.

(For details, refer to the explanations for “Tones.”)

WG (Wave Generator): 1–4

TVF (Time Variant Filter)

TVA (Time Variant Amplifier)

Envelope

Performances

A performance has a patch or rhythm set assigned to each of the 16

parts, and can simultaneously handle 16 sounds.

The Fantom-Xa has two screens: a LAYER screen and a MIXER

screen (p. 68, p. 70).

Use the LAYER screen if you want to play two or more patches

together (Layer) or play different patches in separate areas of the

keyboard (Split).

Use the MIXER screen if you want to “mix” by individually

adjusting the pan and level settings for each of the sixteen parts.

Because the Fantom-Xa sound generator can control multiple sounds

(instruments), it is called a Multi-timbral sound generator.

fig.Performance.e

Rhythm Sets

Rhythm sets are groups of a number of different percussion
instrument sounds. Since percussion instruments generally do not
play melodies, there is no need for a percussion instrument sound to
be able to play a scale on the keyboard. It is, however, more
important that as many percussion instruments as possible be
available to you at the same time. Therefore, each key (note number)
of a rhythm set will produce a different percussion instrument.

fig.RhythmSet.e

20

Rhythm Set

Note Number 98 (D7)

Note Number 97 (C#7)

Note Number 36 (C2)

Note Number 35 (B1)

Rhythm Tone (Percussion instrument sound)

WG

Pitch

Envelope

TVF

TVF

Envelope

TVA

TVA

Envelope

Part

On the Fantom-Xa, a “part” is something to which you assign a

patch or rhythm set. Patch mode has two parts, the Pad part and the

Keyboard part, and you can assign a patch or rhythm set to each of

these parts. In Performance mode, each performance has sixteen

parts, and you can assign a patch or rhythm set to each part.

Overview of the Fantom-Xa

Temporary Area

Rhythm Set

32

Patch

256

Select

Fantom-Xa

GM (GM2)

* 1 The selected Patches/Rhythm Sets cannot be changed.

Performance

64

User (USER)

System

WriteSelect

SelectWrite

Wave Expansion Board

Memory Card

Patch

256

Rhythm Set

32

Performance

64

Rhythm Set

Patch

EXP Slot

CARD Slot

Select Select

* 1

Patch

256

Rhythm Set

9

Performance

64

Rhythm Set

36

Patch

128

Preset B (PR-B)

Preset A (PR-A)

Preset C (PR-C)

Preset D (PR-D)

Preset F (PR-F)

Preset E (PR-E)

Preset (PRST)

About Simultaneous Polyphony

The Fantom-Xa can play a maximum of 128 sounds simultaneously.
The following paragraphs discuss what this means, and what will
happen when more than 128 simultaneous voices are requested from
the Fantom-Xa.

Calculating the Number of Voices
Being Used

The Fantom-Xa is able to play up to 128 notes simultaneously. The
polyphony, or the number of voices (sounds) does not refer only to
the number of patches actually being played, but changes according
to the number of tones used in the patches, and the number of waves
used in the tones. The following method is used to calculate the
number of sounds used for one patch being played.

(Number of patches being played) x (Number of tones used by
patches being played) x (Number of waves used in the tones)

For example, a patch that combines four tones, each of which use
two waves, will use eight notes of polyphony at once. Also, when
playing in Performance mode, the number of sounds for each part is
counted to obtain the total number of sounds for all parts.

How a Patch Sounds

About Memory

Patch and performance settings are stored in what is referred to as

memory. There are three kind of memory: temporary, rewritable,

and non-rewritable.

fig.04-006.e

When the Fantom-Xa is requested to play more than 128 voices
simultaneously, currently sounding notes will be turned off to make
room for newly requested notes. The note with the lowest priority
will be turned off first. The order of priority is determined by the
Patch Priority setting (p. 40).

Patch Priority can be set either to “LAST” or “LOUDEST.” When
“LAST” is selected, a newly requested note that exceeds the 128
voice limit will cause the first-played of the currently sounding notes
to be turned off. When “LOUDEST” is selected, the quietest of the
currently sounding notes will be turned off. Usually, “LAST” is
selected.

Note Priority in Performance Mode

Since Performance mode is usually used to play an ensemble
consisting of several patches, it is important to decide which parts
take priority. Priority is specified by the Voice Reserve settings (p.

75). When a note within a patch needs to be turned off to make room

for a new note, the Patch Priority setting of the patch will apply (p.

40).

Voice Reserve

The Fantom-Xa has a Voice Reserve function that lets you reserve a
minimum number of notes that will always be available for each
part. For example if Voice Reserve is set to “10” for part 16, part 16
will always have 10 notes of sound-producing capacity available to it
even if a total of more than 128 notes (total for all parts) are being
requested. When you make Voice Reserve settings, you need to take
into account the number of notes you want to play on each part as
well as the number of tones used by the selected patch (p. 75).

It is not possible to make Voice Reserve settings that would
cause the total of all parts to be greater than 64 voices.

21

Overview of the Fantom-Xa

Temporary Memory

Temporary Area

This is the area that holds the data for the patch or performance that

you’ve selected using the panel buttons.

When you play the keyboard or play back a sequence, sound is

produced based on data in the temporary area. When you edit a

patch or performance, you do not directly change the data in

memory; rather, you call up the data into the temporary area, and

edit it there.

Settings in the temporary area are temporary, and will be lost when

the power is turned off or when you select another patch/

performance. To keep the settings you have changed, you must write

them into rewritable memory.

Rewritable Memory

System Memory

System memory stores system parameter settings that determine

how the Fantom-Xa functions.

User Memory

User memory is the internal memory area that holds patches,

performances, samples, and performance data.

About the Onboard Effects

Effect Types

The Fantom-Xa has built-in effect units, and you can independently

edit each unit’s settings.

Multi-Effects

The multi-effects are multi-purpose effects that completely change

the sound type by changing the sound itself. Contained are 78

different effects types; select and use the type that suits your aims. In

addition to effects types composed of simple effects such as

Distortion, Flanger, and other such effects, you can also set up a

wide variety of other effects, even connecting effects in series or in

parallel. Furthermore, while chorus and reverb can be found among

the multi-effects types, the following chorus and reverb are handled

with a different system. In Performance mode, three types of multi-

effect can be used simultaneously; these are referred to as MFX1,

MFX2, and MFX3. In Patch mode, the Keyboard part can use MFX1

and the Pad part can use MFX2.

Chorus

Chorus adds depth and spaciousness to the sound. You can select

whether to use this as a chorus effect or a delay effect.

Memory Card

You can use a memory card to store patches, performances, samples,

and performance data just as you can in User memory.

Non-Rewritable Memory

Preset Memory

Data in Preset memory cannot be rewritten. However, you can call

up settings from preset memory into the temporary area, modify

them and then store the modified data in rewritable memory (except

GM2).

Wave Expansion Board
(SRX Series)

The Fantom-Xa can be equipped with a Wave Expansion Board (SRX

series; sold separately). Wave Expansion Boards contain Wave data,

as well as patches and rhythm sets that use this Wave data, which

can be called directly into the temporary area and played.

Reverb

Reverb adds the reverberation characteristics of halls or

auditoriums. Five different types are offered, so you can select and

use the type that suits your purpose.

Mastering Effect

This is a stereo compressor (limiter) that is applied to the final

output of the Fantom-Xa. It has independent high, mid, and low

ranges. Independently for the high-frequency, mid-frequency, and

low-frequency regions, this compresses any sounds that exceed the

specified level, making the volume more consistent.

22

In Patch Mode

Multi-effects can be used individually by each patch and rhythm set.

Overview of the Fantom-Xa

23

Overview of the Fantom-Xa

Tempo Track

The Tempo track records tempo changes of a song over time. It can

be used for tempo changes during a song. If a song has the same

tempo from beginning to end, the Tempo track can be ignored.

When a song is first recorded on the Fantom-Xa, a tempo setting at

the time of recording will be stored at the beginning of the Tempo

track. Therefore when song playback starts from the beginning, the

song will always play back at this initial tempo.

Thus playback tempo is determined by the Tempo track setting. If

you modify the tempo during playback, the overall tempo of the

song will be controlled by the setting you make.

Beat Track

The Beat track records the time signature of each measure of a song.

Set the Beat track when recording a new song, or when you want to

change time signature during a song.

Pattern

Patterns are a place to store performance data separately from

phrase tracks. You can create up to one hundred patterns; as with a

phrase track, each pattern can contain up to sixteen MIDI channels of

data.

Patterns can be assigned to phrase tracks. This means that if your

song uses repeating phrases such as drum or bass riffs, you can

record each phrase as a pattern, and then use the Step Recording

window to assign the patterns at the appropriate locations (p. 130).

In this case, the phrase track only contains “pattern call numbers”

which specify which pattern is to be played. This is convenient, and

also lets you conserve memory.

The RPS function (p. 154) for immediate playback also applies to

Patterns. Patterns are therefore convenient for live performance, if

you’ve recorded necessary sequencer data as Patterns and take them

to the gig.

Patterns also make fine scratch-pads for musical ideas.

Positions for Storing a Song

Temporary Area

The sequencer has an area called

temporarily store one song. So we call this

The song in Temporary Area is volatile and will be lost when the

power is turned off. To keep a song, you must save it to user

memory or memory card.

Temporary Area

temporary song

that can

.

Memory Card/User Memory

If you want to keep the song in Temporary Area that you recorded

or edited, you must save it as a song file onto a memory card or into

user memory. Either method lets you save up to 256 songs.

A card and user memory can contain two file types. The three-letter

symbol shown in parentheses ( ) is a file name extension that

distinguishes the different file types.

Song File (.SVQ)

This file is a song created on the Fantom-Xa. It is called an

song

.

Standard MIDI File (.MID)

Standard MIDI File

data to be exchanged between most musical applications. Fantom-Xa

files can be saved as Standard MIDI Files. This also allows you to

play back commercially available music data (GM scores) that is

compatible with the GM/GM2 system.

fig.SongFile.e

is a standard file format that allows sequencer

Temporary Memory

Temporary Area

User Memory

Song file

Standard MIDI file

MRC Pro

Songs and the Sound Generator Mode

The Fantom-Xa’s sequencer can be used at any time, regardless of

the mode of the sound generator (Patch/Performance).

In Performance mode you can use up to sixteen sounds, with each

part playing a different sound. This means that Performance mode is

ideal for recording or playing an ensemble that uses multiple

instruments, such as drums, bass, and piano.

In Patch mode you can play using the sounds that are assigned to the

Keyboard part and the Pad part.

24

Fantom-Xa

Memory Card

Song file

Standard MIDI file

Overview of the Fantom-Xa

Sampler Section

User Bank

Preset Bank

Card Bank

Memory Card

Preset Memory

User Memory

Sample Memory

Fantom-Xa

Load

Load

Write

Load/Write

Write

Write

Write

Write

Sampling

About the Sampling Section

The Sampling section samples (records) external sounds from an

audio device or mic as digital data. Sampled sounds can be played as

a patch or rhythm set. You can also import WAV/AIFF format files

and use them in the same way.

Samples

A

sample

contains the waveform data sampled by the Fantom-Xa.

In addition to the actual waveform data itself, a sample also contains

parameters such as start point, loop start, and loop end. The Fantom-

Xa can hold 9,000 samples (User: 2000, Card: 7000).

fig.Sample.e

Sample

Sample List

User Sample

0001
0002

2000

Drum

Sampling

Wave

(Sample)

Added

automatically

Multisamples

Two or more samples assigned to the keyboard are collectively

called a multisample. A multisample is divided into 128 “splits.”

Each split contains the number of a sample in the sample list—it

does not contain the actual sample data itself.

fig.Multisample1.e

Multisample

Where Samples are Stored

Samples that you record or import are stored in sample memory.

This sample memory is temporary, and its data will be lost when

you turn off the power. If you want to keep these samples, you must

save them to user memory or a memory card.

* You cannot save data to the preset memory.

fig.SampleMemory.e

sample

sample

No.001

No.002

Number in the sample list

No.001Multisample

sample
No.003

No.128Multisample

sample
No.127

A multisample is

divided into 128

sample
No.128

25

Basic Operation of the Fantom-Xa

To select the LAYER screen

Switching the Sound Generator Mode

The Fantom-Xa has two sound generating modes: Patch mode,

Performance mode. You can select the sound generating mode

(state) that is most appropriate for how you are playing the Fantom-

Xa.

Use the following procedure to switch between these modes.

Patch Mode

In this mode you can use the keyboard and pads to play individual

sounds (patches/rhythm sets).

The keyboard and pads each have their own sound generator and

part, and are connected on a single MIDI channel.

To select Patch mode

1.

Press [PATCH/RHYTHM].

fig.PatchPlay

1.

Press [LAYER/SPLIT].

fig.PfmLayer

To select the MIXER screen

1.

Press [MIXER].

fig.PfmMixer

About the Function Buttons

The six [F1]–[F6] buttons (function buttons) located below the

display execute various functions, and their operation will differ

depending on the screen. Functions will be listed in the bottom of the

screen.

fig.FButtons

Performance Mode

This mode allows you to combine multiple sounds (patches or

rhythm sets).

LAYER/SPLIT screen

Use this screen when you want to play two or more sounds

(patches/rhythm sets) together.

You can play patches together (Layer) or divide the keyboard into

two regions and play different patches in each region (Split).

MIXER screen

Use this screen when you want to mix the sounds by adjusting the

level and pan for each of the 16 parts.

The LAYER screen and MIXER screen provide different views

of the same performance. For example, you’ll want to use the

LAYER/SPLIT screen when you’re setting up a keyboard split,

or use the MIXER screen when you’re adjusting the effect

settings or volume balance of the patches for each part.

Window

The somewhat smaller screens that appear temporarily on top

of the normal screens are called windows. Various types of

windows appears according to the situation. Some display lists,

others allow you to make settings, and still others ask you to

confirm an operation.

fig.Tempo

Press [EXIT] to close the window. Some windows will close

automatically when an operation is performed.

26

Basic Operation of the Fantom-Xa

Moving the Cursor

A single screen or window displays multiple parameters or items for

selection. To edit the setting of a parameter, move the cursor to the

value of that parameter. To select an item, move the cursor to that

item. When selected with the cursor, a parameter value or other

selection is highlighted.

fig.CursorScreen

Cursor

Move the cursor with the , , and (cursor buttons).

fig.CURSOR

: moves the cursor up.

: moves the cursor down.

: moves the cursor to the left.

: moves the cursor to the right.

• If you hold down one cursor button while you also press the

cursor button for the opposite direction, the cursor will move

more rapidly in the direction of the first-pressed cursor button.

• When the cursor is displayed, pressing [ENTER] will sometimes

display a list of the available choices for that parameter. This is

convenient when you want to see what your choices are.

Changing a Value

VALUE Dial

Turning the VALUE dial clockwise increases the value,

counterclockwise decreases the value.

• Holding down [SHIFT] as you move the VALUE dial increases

value increments so you can make large value changes faster.

[INC] and [DEC]

Pressing [INC] increases the value, and [DEC] decreases it.

• Keep the button pressed for continuous adjustment.

• For faster value increases, keep [INC] pressed down and press

[DEC]. For decreasing value faster, keep [DEC] pressed down

and press [INC].

• If you press [INC] or [DEC] while holding down [SHIFT], the

value increments will get bigger.

When the cursor is located at a parameter value, press [ENTER]

to display a window where you can set the value. Use

to select a value, and then press [ENTER] to finalize the setting.

Using the pads

In some cases when the cursor is located at an input location, you

can press [ENTER] to see a list of parameter values. For some of

these lists, you can use the pads to input or specify the value.

1.

Press [TRIGGER] and [CATEGORY] simultaneously so both
buttons are lit.

You can use the pads to input or specify the value.

To change the value, use the VALUE dial or the [INC] [DEC]

buttons.

fig.VALUE

In each screen of the Fantom-Xa, you can use the cursor buttons

to move the area displayed as highlighted, and modify its value.

* Each parameter has its own range of possible values, so you cannot set

any value smaller than the minimum value or greater than the

maximum value.

When inputting a numerical value

PAD [0]–[9]:

[SHIFT]:

fig.PadNumber

Input numerals 0–9

Cancels the numeral you input

When inputting directly

Pressing a pad will directly input the corresponding value.

From the top, the items in the list correspond to pads [0]–[9].

fig.PadDirect

27

Basic Operation of the Fantom-Xa

Assigning a Name

On the Fantom-Xa, you can assign names to each patch, rhythm set,

performance, Song, Sample, and Pattern. The procedure is the same

for any type of data.

fig.PatchName

1.

Press to move the cursor to the location where you
wish to input a character.

Turn the VALUE dial, or press [INC] [DEC] to specify the

2.

character.

• [F2 (TYPE)]: Selects the type of character. Each time you

press this, you will alternately select the first

character of a character set: uppercase (A),

lowercase (a), or numerals and symbols (0).

• [F3 (DELETE)]: Deletes the character at the cursor location.

• [F4 (INSERT)]: Inserts a space at the cursor location.

• or : Move the cursor.

•, :Switch between uppercase and lowercase

letters.

Using the Pads to Specify Characters

You can use the pads to specify characters.

By pressing a pad one or more times, you can successively select the

letters, numerals, and symbols that appear on the pad. For example,

if you repeatedly press pad 1, you will cycle through the available

choices like this: 1 → A → B → C → 1 → A...

• You can switch between uppercase and lowercase letters for the

character to be entered by pressing [F1 (CAPS LOCK)] to add a

check mark (✔).

• Press PAD [0] (SPACE) to replace the character at the cursor

location with a space.

fig.PAD

* If you decide to discard your input, press [F5 (CANCEL)].

Available Characters/Symbols

space, A–Z, a–z, 0–9, ! “ # $ % & ` ( ) * + , - . / : ; < = > ? @ [ \ ] ^

_ ` { | }

From a naming screen you can press [MENU] and select “1.

Undo” to return the name to what it was before you changed it.

From [MENU] you can select “2. To Upper” or press to

change the character at the cursor to uppercase. From [MENU]

you can select “3. To Lower” or press to change the

character at the cursor to lowercase. From [MENU] you can

select “4. Delete All” to clear all the characters you were

inputting.

Song file names may not contain lowercase characters or certain

symbols (“ * + , . / : ; < = > ? [ \ ] |).

28

Playing in Patch Mode

Patch group Patch number

Patch category

Patch name

1

4

1

4

6

6

Displays the Control Setting screen.

Adjusts the volume of the keyboard part and pad part.

1

8

2

3

4

12

6

5

13

7

11

10

3

3

Switches the keyboard part and pad part.

9

2

2

5

8

11 12 13109

11 12 13109

5

7

Indicates the current sound generating mode.

Indicates the volume of the Keyboard part and Pad part.

Indicates multi-effects (MFX1, 2), chorus (CHO),
reverb (REV), and masterring (MASTER) on and off.

Indicates the name of the currently selected song,
the measure location.

Indicates the time signature, and the tempo.

Determines whether you will be selecting
patches or rhythm sets.

Indicates/selects the patch category.

Selects whether the patch category will be locked.

Indicates/selects the group, number,
and name of the selected patch.

This indicates the function that is assigned to the D Beam,
and the response status of the D Beam.

8

In Patch mode, the keyboard and the pads are each used to play a

single sound (patch/rhythm set).

The keyboard controller section and the pad controller section each

have their own sound generator part, and each are connected by

their own MIDI channel. This means you can play separate sounds

on the keyboard and the pads.

About the PATCH PLAY Screen

Press [PATCH/RHYTHM]. You will enter Patch mode, and the

PATCH PLAY screen appears.

fig.PatchPlay

Keyboard Part and Pad Part

Adjust the Volume of the Keyboard Part and Pad Part

1.

In the PATCH PLAY screen, press [F4 (LEVEL)].

The PART LEVEL window appears.

fig.PartLevel

2.

Press [F4 (KBD)] or [F5 (PAD)] to select the part.

Use the VALUE dial or [INC] [DEC] to adjust the volume.

3.

Press [F6 (CLOSE)] to close the window.

4.

Functions in the PATCH PLAY screen

fig.PatchFunc.e

The Fantom-Xa has two parts; a Keyboard part and a Pad part.

• Press [F1 (KBD)] to select the Keyboard part.

fig.KbdPart

• Press [F2 (PAD)] to select the Pad part.

fig.PadPart

• Press [PAGE] to switch the PATCH PLAY screen.

This screen simultaneously displays the settings of the

Keyboard part and the Pad part.

fig.DualPart

fig.DualPart2

29

Playing in Patch Mode

Patch/Rhythm Set Group

The Fantom-Xa has several patch groups, including the User group

and Preset groups A–F and GM, with each group storing 128 patches

(256 in GM, USER). What’s more, you can further expand your

options by installing an optional Wave Expansion Board (SRX series;

sold separately), enabling you to select from a huge assortment of

available patches.

USER

This is the group inside the Fantom-Xa which can be rewritten.

Patches you yourself create can be stored in this group. The Fantom-

Xa includes 256 preset patches and 32 rhythm sets.

PR-A–F (Preset A–F), PRST (Preset)

This is the group inside the Fantom-Xa which cannot be rewritten.

However you may modify the settings of the currently selected

patch, and then store the modified patch in User memory. Groups

A–F already contain 128 prepared patches each, for a total of 768

patches.

GM (General MIDI 2)

This is an internal group of patches compatible with General MIDI 2,

a system of MIDI function specifications designed to transcend

differences between makers and types of devices; these patches

cannot be overwritten. Furthermore, settings of currently selected

patches from this group cannot be changed. The Fantom-Xa includes

256 preset patches.

Selecting a Patch

Press [PATCH/RHYTHM] to access the PATCH PLAY

1.

screen.

2.

Press [F1 (KBD)] or [F2 (PAD)] to select the Keyboard part
or Pad part.

* To select a rhythm set, press [F5 (RHYTHM)] to add a check mark

(✔).

3.

If you select a patch group (or a rhythm set group), press

and use the VALUE dial or [INC] [DEC] to select.

fig.PatchGroup

Press to move the cursor to the patch number.

4.

5.

Use the VALUE dial or [INC] [DEC] to select a patch (or a
rhythm set).

If you selected a patch (or a rhythm set) for the keyboard part,

play the keyboard to hear the sound. If you selected a patch (or

a rhythm set) for the pad part, play the pads to hear the sound.

Selecting Patches from the List

CARD (Memory Card)

This group lets you use patches stored on a memory card inserted in

the rear panel card slot. Since the data in this group can be rewritten,

you can use this group to store patches that you create.

EXP (Wave Expansion Board installed in EXP
Slot)

These are groups used when using patches from Wave Expansion

Board installed in the EXP slot, and cannot be rewritten. However

you may modify the settings of the currently selected patch, and

then store the modified patch in User memory and Memory card.

The number of onboard patches depends on the specific Wave

Expansion Board installed.

* EXP patches can be selected only if a Wave Expansion Board (SRX

series; sold separately) is installed in the slot.

You can display a list of patches and select a patch from that list.

Press [PATCH/RHYTHM] to access the PATCH PLAY

1.

screen.

Press [ENTER].

2.

The PATCH LIST screen appears.

fig.PatchList

To select a patch, press [F3 (PATCH)].

3.

To select a rhythm set, press [F4 (RHYTHM)].

If you press [F4 (RHYTHM)], the RHYTHM LIST screen

appears.

4.

Press to select a group.

Use the VALUE dial, [INC] [DEC], or to select a

5.

patch/rhythm set.

Press [ENTER] to confirm your selection.

6.

30