Roland PC-70 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the Roland
PC-70.
The PC-70 is an easy-to-operate, dedicated keyboard
controller for GS compatible sound modules.

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

Copyright © 2000 ROLAND CORPORATION
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form
without the written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION.

GS ( ) is a registered trademark of Roland Corporation.

For EU Countries

This product complies with the requirements of European Directive 89/336/EEC.

For the USA

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT

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

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

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

For Canada

NOTICE

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

AVIS

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

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

BLUE:
BROWN:

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

NEUTRAL
LIVE

For the U.K.

2

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.

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

002c

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

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

003

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

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

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.

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

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

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

007

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

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

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.

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

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!

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

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.

3

012c

• 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 or the power-

supply cord has been damaged; or

• Objects have fallen into, or liquid

has been spilled onto the unit; or

• The unit has been exposed to rain

(or otherwise has become wet); or

• The unit does not appear to operate

normally or exhibits a marked
change in performance.

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

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.

101b

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

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

102d

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

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

103b

• Whenever the unit is to remain
unused for an extended period of
time, disconnect the AC adaptor.

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

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.

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

107d

• Never handle the AC adaptor body, 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. 10).

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

110b

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

4

Table of Contents

USING THE UNIT SAFELY .....................................................................3

IMPORTANT NOTES...............................................................................6

About the PC-70................................................................................................... 7

What is the General MIDI?................................................................................. 7

What is the General MIDI 2?.............................................................................. 7

What is the GS Format? ...................................................................................... 7

Main Features....................................................................................................... 8

Panel Descriptions................................................................................. 9

Power..................................................................................................... 10

Setting Up the PC-70............................................................................ 10

Sound Module Setup......................................................................................... 10

Desk Top Music Setup ...................................................................................... 11

Powering Up.......................................................................................... 12

Setting the MIDI Channel (MIDI Transmit Channel)...........................12

Selecting Sounds on a GS Sound Module

(Sending Program Change/Bank Select Messages) .........................13

Features Useful When Playing............................................................ 15

Changing Octaves................................................................................ 16

Controlling a Sound Module with the DATA ENTRY Slider..............17

Troubleshooting................................................................................... 23

Specifications....................................................................................... 26

5

IMPORTANT NOTES

291a

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

Power Supply

301

• Do not use this unit on the same power circuit
with any device that will generate line noise
(such as an electric motor or variable lighting
system).

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

352

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

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.

355

• To avoid possible breakdown, do not use the
unit in a wet area, such as an area exposed to
rain or other moisture.

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.

Additional Precautions

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.

• When you turn on the power, never push
keys or buttons. This can be the cause of
malfunction.

6

■

About the PC-70

The Roland PC-70 is a MIDI keyboard controller. It does not contain any sound-generating
circuitry, since it is designed to provide for the convenient transmission of Program Change
and Bank Select messages, as well as a variety of other MIDI messages (such as reverb and
chorus information) to an external sound module. It is particularly suited for controlling
sound modules that comply with the GS Format. (Called simply “GS sound modules” in the
following.)

■

What is the General MIDI?

General MIDI is a set of recommendations which seeks to provide a way to go beyond the
limitations of proprietary designs, and standardize the MIDI capabilities of sound generating
devices. Sound generating devices and music files that meet the General MIDI standard bear

the General MIDI logo ( ).
Music files bearing the General MIDI logo can be played back using any General MIDI sound

generating unit to produce essentially the same musical performance.

■

What is the General MIDI 2?

The upwardly compatible General MIDI 2 ( ) recommendations pick up where the
original General MIDI left off, offering enhanced expressive capabilities, and even greater

compatibility.
Issues that were not covered by the original General MIDI recommendations, such as how
sounds are to be edited, and how effects should be handled, have now been precisely
defined. Moreover, the available sounds have been expanded.
General MIDI 2 compliant sound generators are capable of reliably playing back music files
that carry either the General MIDI or General MIDI 2 logo.
In some cases, the conventional form of General MIDI, which does not include the new
enhancements, is referred to as “General MIDI 1” as a way of distinguishing it from General
MIDI 2.

■

What is the GS Format?

The GS Format ( ) is Roland’s set of specifications for standardizing the performance of
sound generating devices. In addition to including support for everything defined by the

General MIDI, the highly compatible GS Format additionally offers an expanded number of
sounds, provides for the editing of sounds, and spells out many details for a wide range of
extra features, including effects such as reverb and chorus. Designed with the future in mind,
the GS Format can readily include new sounds and support new hardware features when
they arrive.

About the Sounds Contained in a GS Sound Module

A GS sound module contains 128 basic sounds (Capital Tones) and a number of Variation
Tones. The mapping for the Capital Tones is compatible with Level 1 of the General MIDI
System. Capital Tones are stored in Bank 0, while the Variations are stored in Banks 1
through 127. The selection of Variation Tones that are made available will be different
depending on the sound module. You should check the manual for any module you are
going to use, and familiarize yourself with the sound collection it contains.

7

About the Drum Sets Provided by a GS Sound Module

The Drum Channel (ch. 10) provides for the use of several Variation Sets in addition to the
basic Drum Set (Standard Set: PC #1). Drum Sets are selected using Program Change
messages. The types of Variation Sets that are made available will be different depending on
the sound module. Refer to the manual for the module you are using so you know what
kinds of drum sets it contains.

* If a Variation Tone or Variation Drum Set you have requested is not found in the GS module you are

using, the module may not sound at all, or an incorrect sound may be played.

■

Main Features

Superb Playability and Expressiveness

Since this standard 49-key keyboard also provides response to velocity, it allows you to
express even the finest nuances. In addition, an Octave Shift feature allows you to
conveniently shift the soundable range up or down by an octave. Moreover, it is equipped
with a pitch/modulation wheel, and provides a jack for connecting a damper pedal.

Complete Range of Control Features

Since the keyboard provides for sound selections that use combinations of Program Change
and Bank Select messages (value for CC 00 and CC 32), you can also select any of the
Variation Tones that may be available on a GS sound module.
In addition, a variety of continuous controllers (Control Changes) can be assigned to the data
entry slider. The slider can then be used for variable control over the desired parameter
(reverb or chorus depth, for example) on a GS sound module.
Viewing the contents of the LED display allows you to operate easily and precisely.

Makes Desk Top Music (DTM) More Enjoyable

The PC-70 is very compact, so it requires only a minimal amount of desktop space. The
keyboard is sure to become an invaluable part of any DTM setup, since it can be used for
real-time or step recording, as well as for practice while listening to “minus-one” playback.

8

Panel Descriptions

fig.Panel.e

[1] PITCH / MODULATION Wheels
[2] OCTAVE UP / DOWN / STANDARD Buttons

[3] MIDI / SELECT Button
[4] DISPLAY(LED)

[5] DATA ENTRY Slider
[6] MIDI CHANNELS (1 to 16)

[7] AFTERTOUCH
[8] VELOCITY
[9] CHORUS LEVEL

[10] REVERB LEVEL

[11] PANPOT
[12] VOLUME

[13] CC SELECT(Select Control Change)
[14] CC32

[15] CC00
[16] PC(Program Change)

[17] NUMERIC ENTRY Section (0 to 9)

[22] AC Adapter Jack

[21] SUSTAIN SWITCH Jack

[20] MIDI OUT Connector

[18] CANCEL
[19] ENTER

[23] POWER Switch

9

Power

How to Connect the AC Adaptor

The PC-70 can be powered by an AC adaptor.
Be sure to use only the attached AC adaptor. Using any other adaptor may cause
malfunction or electric shock.

1.

Check that the unit is OFF.

2.

Connect the AC adaptor to the AC Adaptor jack, then connect the plug to a power
outlet.

* 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.

* If the unit is to remain unused for an extended period of time, unplug the AC adaptor.

Setting Up the PC-70

The PC-70 is a MIDI controller. Although it contains no sound-generating circuitry of its
own, it can effectively control external units (sound module, computer, etc.) by transmitting
a wide variety of MIDI messages.
To ensure maximum benefit from your system, be sure to read this manual and the manuals
for all external equipment.

■

Sound Module Setup

Connect between the MIDI OUT connector on the PC-70 and the MIDI IN connector on the
sound module.

* 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.

fig.PC70-SC.e

10

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

Sound Module

PC-70

OUTPUT
jacks

LINE IN jacks,
AUX jacks,
or TAPE IN jacks

Monitor speakers
(self-powered)

INPUT jacks

Stereo set, etc.

■

Desk Top Music Setup

* When connecting your computer with a sound module, use only a cable which is designed for the

model of computer you are using and its particular kind of connector.

* If the sound module has a COMPUTER switch, make sure it is set to the appropriate position. The

correct position will vary depending on the type of computer, the way you are connecting with it, and
the requirements of the software you are using.

Computer Connected Using the Serial Connector on the Sound
Module

fig.PC70-Serial.e

RS-232C Connector

Computer Cable

Computer

Connector

Computer Switch

(Select one that is sutable for your computer.)

GS Sound Module

MIDI IN

Computer

MIDI OUT

PC-70

Computer Connected Using the MIDI IN Connector on the Sound
Module

fig.PC70-MPU.e

Computer Switch (MIDI)

GS Sound Module

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

Computer

MIDI IN

PC-70

MIDI OUT

11

Powering Up

* Once the connections have been completed (p. 10), 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.

Power to the various devices should be turned on in the appropriate order. First, turn on the
units from which MIDI messages will originate (computer, PC-70). Next, turn on the sound
module, then the audio reproduction equipment. This unit’s
its rear panel.
Power off your system in the reverse order.

* 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.

power switch [23]

is located on

Setting the MIDI Channel (MIDI Transmit Channel)

To control the sound module, set the MIDI channel the PC-70 will use to transmit on to the
same channel the module is using to receive on. If the sound module is multitimbral, set the
channel on the PC-70 so it matches the MIDI channel of the Part in the module that you wish
to control.

fig.MidiCh.e

MIDI Channel

12

[Procedure]

1.

Press

MIDI/SELECT [3]

2.

Select the MIDI channel by pressing one of the 16 keys in the

[6]

.

3.

Press

MIDI/SELECT [3]

(LED will show “SEL”).

again to confirm your selection.

MIDI channel section

Selecting Sounds on a GS Sound Module (Sending Program Change/Bank Select Messages)

Program Change/Bank Select messages are used for changing Tones for an ordinary
instrument Part, and for changing Drum Sets for the Drum Part (GS: ch. 10).

Changing Sounds in a GS Sound Module

To change Tones in a GS module, you need to send the Bank Select message (consists of the
values for Controller Numbers [CC] 00 and 32) together with the Program Number.
The value of Controller Number 00 (MSB) and that of Controller Number 32 (LSB) work
together as a pair to specify a Bank. The Program Number that comes immediately after
completes the switch to the desired sound.
On the PC-70, these three messages are always sent as one set:

• Value of Controller Number 00 (MSB)

• Value of Controller Number 32 (LSB)

• Program Number xx

* You can conveniently refer to the GS/GM sound group list printed on the upper-right part of the

PC-70’s panel when specifying a Program Number.

[Procedure]

1.

Set the MIDI transmit channel to match that of the desired Part (in the sound module).

2.

Press

MIDI/SELECT [3]

3.

Press the

4.

Select the value of Controller Number 00 by pressing keys in the

section [17]

5.

Press

6.

Press the

7.

Select the value of Controller Number 32 by pressing keys in the

section [17]

8.

Press

9.

Press the

10.

Select the Program Number by pressing keys in the

11.

Press

12.

Press

G#4 black key (CC 00) [15]

.

ENTER [19]

F#4 black key (CC 32) [14]

.

ENTER [19]

A#4 black key (Program Change [PC]) [16]

ENTER [19]
MIDI/SELECT [3]

(LED will show “SEL”).

.

NUMERIC ENTRY

.

.

NUMERIC ENTRY

.

.

NUMERIC ENTRY section [17]

.

again to confirm your selection.

.

13

[Example]

How to select the sound of Variation No. 8, Instrument No. 3 (Piano 3w) on the SC­8850:

1. Set the MIDI transmit channel to match that of the desired Part in the module.

2. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] (LED will show “SEL”).

3. Press the G#4 black key (CC 00) [15].

4. Press the “8” key in the NUMERIC ENTRY section [17].

5. Press ENTER [19].

6. Press the F#4 black key (CC 32) [14].

7. Press the “4” key in the NUMERIC ENTRY section [17].

8. Press ENTER [19].

9. Press the A#4 black key (PC) [16].

10. Press the “3” key in the NUMERIC ENTRY section [17].

11. Press ENTER [19].

12. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] again to confirm your selection.

Changing Drum Sets in a GS Sound Module

The Drum Part (ch. 10) of a GS module does not respond to Bank Select messages. However,
if you try to send only a Program Change message from the PC-70, a Bank Select message
will end up being transmitted along with it anyway because the data for the last sound
specified will have been retained in memory. For this reason, you should always send a
value of 0 for Controller Numbers 00 and 32 first, then send the Program Number in order to
make sure you obtain the Drum Set you need.

[Procedure]

1.

Set the MIDI transmit channel to 10.

2.

Press

MIDI/SELECT [3]

3.

Press the

4.

Press the “0” key in the

5.

Press

6.

Press the

7.

Press the “0” key in the

8.

Press

9.

Press the

10.

Select the Program Number by pressing keys in the

11.

Press

12.

Press

G#4 black key (CC 00) [15]

ENTER [19]

F#4 black key (CC 32) [14]

ENTER [19]

A#4 black key (PC) [16]

ENTER [19]
MIDI/SELECT [3]

(LED will show “SEL”).

.

NUMERIC ENTRY section [17]

.

.

NUMERIC ENTRY section [17]

.

.

.

again to confirm your selection.

.

.

NUMERIC ENTRY section [17]

.

14

[Example]

How to select the PC #49 Drum set (ORCHESTRA Set) on the SC-8850:

1. Set the MIDI transmit channel to 10.

2. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] (LED will show “SEL”).

3. Press the G#4 black key (CC 00) [15].

4. Press the “0” key in the NUMERIC ENTRY section [17].

5. Press ENTER [19].

6. Press the F#4 black key (CC 32) [14].

7. Press the “0” key in the NUMERIC ENTRY section [17].

8. Press ENTER [19].

9. Press the A#4 black key (PC) [16].

10. Press the “4” key and then “9” in the NUMERIC ENTRY section [17].

11. Press ENTER [19].

12. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] again to confirm your selection.

Features Useful When Playing

Applying Pitch Changes to Notes (Pitch Bend)

Move the BENDER wheel [1] (up or down) to transmit Pitch Bend messages, and apply
subtle pitch changes to notes.

* The Pitch Bend range varies depending on how it is set on the sound module.

Modifying the Sound of Notes: Modulation (CC 01)

Moving the MODULATION wheel [1] (up or down) will transmit Modulation messages,
changing the sound in real time (usually by adding a vibrato effect).

* The change obtained with this message will vary depending on the settings for your sound module (the

section which handles modulation), or the Tone selected.

Adding a Sustain Effect to Notes: Hold 1 (CC 64)

After connecting a pedal switch, you can depress it while playing to send the Hold 1 message
(CC 64), causing notes that were playing to be sustained. If an electric organ or other
normally sustained type sound was being sounded, the notes will continue for as long as you
have the pedal down. The pedal switch should be connected to the SUSTAIN SWITCH jack
[21] on the rear of the unit.
Depressing the pedal will transmit an ON value (127), while releasing it will transmit an OFF
value (0).

* The Hold 1 (CC 64) function can be assigned to the DATA ENTRY slider [5], allowing you to obtain

the damper effect by moving the slider.

15

Changing Octaves

Using the OCTAVE [2] buttons (UP, DOWN), the soundable range of the keyboard can be
shifted up or down by one octave, making it possible to access all of the notes from C0 to C8.

Ex.) Shift the Sound Range Up One Octave: OCTAVE UP

Press UP in the OCTAVE [2] once; the keyboard will now offer notes within a range an
octave higher.

fig.Octave1

C3 (48) C7 (96)

Ex.) Shift the Sound Range Down One Octave: OCTAVE DOWN

Press DOWN in the OCTAVE [2] once; the keyboard will now offer notes within a range an
octave lower.

fig.Octave2

C1 (24) C5 (72)

Return to the Normal Sound Range: STANDARD

Press UP and DOWN simultaneously.

fig.Octave3

C2 (36) C6 (84)

16

Controlling a Sound Module with the DATA ENTRY Slider

The following functions can be assigned to the DATA ENTRY slider:
Function nameDescription
Channel Aftertouch Alters notes currently being played
VelocityChanges dynamics
Reverb Send Level (CC 91)Sets the depth of Reverb
Chorus Send Level (CC 93)Sets the depth of Chorus
Volume (CC 07)Sets the volume level of the Part
Panpot (CC 10)Sets sound position (localization in the stereo sound field)
CC 00 to 127Depends on the selected Controller Number

* Since a slider control accesses digital information, it might not produce any noticeable change in the

value if moved by only a small amount. If this happens, move the slider up and down once, then set the
value.

Altering the Timbre of Notes Currently Being Played (Channel
Aftertouch)

The keyboard on the PC-70 cannot transmit Channel Aftertouch messages. However, such
messages can be transmitted by assigning the Channel Aftertouch function to the DATA
ENTRY slider on the PC-70.
Channel Aftertouch is a function that lets you alter notes (that have already been played) by
applying additional pressure on the keys. The PC-70 can create this Aftertouch effect—
simply move the DATA ENTRY slider after Aftertouch has been assigned to it.

fig.aftertouch.e

Aftertouch

[Procedure]

1. Set the MIDI transmit channel to match that of the desired Part.

2. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] (LED will show “SEL”).

3. Press the F3 white key (AFTER TOUCH) [7].

4. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] again to confirm your selection. Now, when you move the

DATA ENTRY slider, Channel Aftertouch messages (with a value reflecting the
slider’s position) will be transmitted.

* A GS sound module will not respond to Aftertouch messages while it remains set at its factory

defaults. For details, refer to the owner’s manual for the sound module you are using. Computer users
should consult the owner’s manual for their software, since it may be possible to select a response for
Channel Aftertouch within the software.

17

Changing the Velocity Sensitivity: Velocity

Whenever a key is pressed on the instrument, the value for velocity will be transmitted along
with the note information. The following setting allows you to choose the sensitivity of the
response to velocity (range of possible change).

fig.VeloCurv.e

Slider position: minimum

Slider position: center

Slider position: maximum

fig.velocity.e

[Procedure]

Velocity value

Strength of key touch

Velocity value

Strength of key touch

Velocity value

Strength of key touch

Velocity

1. Set the MIDI channel to match that of the Part (sound module) to be controlled.

2. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] (LED will show “SEL”).

3. Press the F#3 black key (VELOCITY) [8].

4. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] again to confirm your selection. Move the DATA ENTRY

slider to select the minimum value, thus setting the desired range for velocity. With
the slider at its maximum, velocity values within the entire 1–127 range can be
generated.

18

Changing the Chorus Depth: Chorus Send Level (CC 93)

This function allows you to set the Chorus depth for each Part.

fig.chorus.e

Chorus Depth

[Procedure]

1. Set the MIDI transmit channel to match that of the desired Part.

2. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] (LED will show “SEL”).

3. Press the A#3 black key (CHORUS LEVEL) [9].

4. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] again to confirm your selection. Now you can use the DATA

ENTRY slider to select the value transmitted for the Chorus Send Level (Effect 3
Depth).

* When a sound module other than a GS module is being used, the relevant parameter may not correctly

respond to CC 93 messages.

Changing the Reverb Depth: Reverb Send Level (CC 91)

This function allows you to set the Reverb depth for each Part.

fig.reverb.e

Reverb Depth

[Procedure]

1. Set the MIDI transmit channel to match that of the desired Part.

2. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] (LED will show “SEL”).

3. Press the G#3 black key (REVERB LEVEL) [10].

4. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] again to confirm your selection. Now you can use the DATA

ENTRY slider to select the value transmitted for the Reverb Send Level (Effect 1
Depth).

* When a sound module other than a GS or General MIDI module is being used, the relevant parameter

may not correctly respond to CC 91 messages.

19

Setting the Sound Location: Panpot (CC 10)

When the module is connected so its sounds are produced in stereo, this parameter
determines the stereo placement (L/R) of the individual sounds produced. For the Drum
Part (ch. 10), it alters in a relative manner the overall Panpot setting for percussive
instruments (the overall orientation of the Drum Part on a GS module).

fig.pan.e

Pan

[Procedure]

1. Set the MIDI transmit channel to match that of the desired Part.

2. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] (LED will show “SEL”).

3. Press the C#4 black key (PANPOT) [11].

4. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] again to confirm your selection. Now you can use the DATA

ENTRY slider to set the value to be transmitted for the Panpot. With the slider at the
center, the sound will be oriented in the center. When pulled all the way forward, the
sound will be heard from the extreme left. When pushed completely back, the sound
will come from the right.

Changing the Volume: Volume (CC 07)

This function allows you to adjust the volume level for each Part.

fig.volume.e

20

Volume

[Procedure]

1. Set the MIDI transmit channel to match that of the desired Part.

2. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] (LED will show “SEL”).

3. Press the D#4 black key (VOLUME) [12].

4. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] again to confirm your selection. Now you can use the DATA

ENTRY slider to set the value that will be transmitted for the Volume.

Assigning Other Controllers (CC 00 to 127) to the DATA ENTRY
Slider

By assigning a controller number to the DATA ENTRY slider, the slider can be used for
controlling a wide range of features on your sound module.
Any controller numbered from 0 to 95 (Continuous Controllers) can be assigned. Since the
PC-70 isn’t equipped with a display which allows you to monitor data when transmitting it,
it is not suited for operations which involve Registered and Non-Registered Parameter
Numbers.

Controllers 00 through 95 (Continuous Controllers)

Controller No. Control Function

0. Bank Select MSB

1. Modulation

2. Breath Controller

3. Undefined

4. Foot Controller

5. Portamento Time

6. Data Entry (Used with RPN/NRPN)

7. Main Volume

8. Balance

9. Undefined

10. Panpot

11. Expression Pedal

12. Effect Control 1

13. Effect Control 2
14–15 Undefined

16. General Purpose Controller 1

17. General Purpose Controller 2

18. General Purpose Controller 3

19. General Purpose Controller 4
20–31 Undefined

32. Bank Select LSB
33–63 LSB for controllers 1-31

64. Hold 1 (Damper)

65. Portamento

66. Sostenuto

67. Soft Pedal

68. Undefined

69. Hold 2 (Freeze)
70–79 Undefined

80. General Purpose Controller 5

81. General Purpose Controller 6

82. General Purpose Controller 7

83. General Purpose Controller 8
84–90 Undefined

91. Effect 1 (External Effect) Depth
(GS/General MIDI: Reverb Send Level)

92. Effect 2 (Tremolo) Depth

93. Effect 3 (Chorus) Depth (GS: Chorus Send Level)

94. Effect 4 (Celeste) Depth

95. Effect 5 (Phaser) Depth

21

Controllers 96 and above (NRPN/RPN, Channel Mode Messages)

fig.controller.e

[Procedure]

Controller No. Control Function

96. Data Increment

97. Data Decrement

98. Non-Registered Parameter Number LSB

99. Non-Registered Parameter Number MSB

100. Registered Parameter Number LSB

101. Registered Parameter Number MSB

102–120 Undefined
121–127 Reserved for Channel Mode Messages

Select CC Numeric Key Pad Enter

1. Set the MIDI transmit channel to match that of the desired Part.

2. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] (LED will show “SEL”).

3. Press the F4 white key (CC SELECT) [13].

4. Select the Controller Number by pressing keys in the NUMERIC ENTRY section [17].

5. Press ENTER [19].

6. Press MIDI/SELECT [3] again to confirm your selection. Now you can use the DATA

ENTRY slider to transmit the value of the specified Controller Number.

22

Troubleshooting

Q: The unit cannot be switched on; or it doesn’t work at all.
A: Check if you are using the attached AC adaptor. Use only the attached adaptor—using

any other adaptor may result in damage, malfunction or electric shock.

Q: The sound module does not respond to the movement of the DATA ENTRY slider.
A: Check if the correct function is assigned to the DATA ENTRY slider. Also, note that the

module will sometimes not respond if the slider is moved only slightly. If you are
unsure, pull the slider all the way down first and then set it to the desired position.

Q: The sound you have requested cannot be selected.
A: Some GS modules, such as those in the Sound Canvas series, have a switch which allows

you to turn on or off the reception of Program Change messages and/or Bank Select
messages. Be sure this switch is turned ON.

A: Could the sound module have received a GM System On message (the message that

orders a module to function as a General MIDI sound module) before you sent Bank
Select messages? Since Bank Selects are not recognized in the General MIDI System Level
1 specifications, the module will ignore them if it is currently behaving as a General
MIDI device. To correct this situation, send a GS Reset message (which retrieves the GS
default settings), or simply switch the module off, then on again.

* The PC-70 cannot transmit GS Reset messages.

A: When specifying the change in sound, did you supply the complete set of values (values

for CC 00/CC 32 and Program Number)? When a change in sound is made using the PC­70, the complete set of three values (value for CC 00 and CC 32, then the Program
number) is transmitted, even if only the Program Number has been specified. Note also
that the values for a sound selection remain stored in memory until the next sound has
been successfully selected. So, if even one out of the complete set of three values is
mistakenly not supplied, part of the previous values could be sent along with the newly
specified ones. As a result, you might not obtain the sound you hoped for.

A: Does your computer music application use Program Numbers 0 to 127 for sound

selection? Since the PC-70 uses numbers 1 to 128, you may need to add one to the

number being selected to obtain the correct sound.
Q: The GS module does not respond to Aftertouch messages.
A: A GS sound module will not respond to Aftertouch messages when it’s in its default

mode. Therefore, you need to set the Aftertouch parameters using Exclusive messages.

(Refer to the MIDI Implementation for the sound module in question.) If using a

computer-based system, you may be able to easily make the required settings using the

software.

23

fig.MIDI-Imp.e

Version : 1.00

Remarks

Date : May. 12, 2000

X

X

XXX

Transmitted Recognized

MIDI Implementation Chart

MIDI Keyboard controller

Model PC-70

1

1–16

Function...

Default

Changed

Basic

Channel

Mode 3

X

Default

Messages

Mode

X

0–127

**************

Altered

Note

X

X

**************

True Voice

Number :

X

O

X

Note On

Note Off

Velocity

X

X

X

O

Key's

Channel's

After

Touch

X

X

* 1

O

O

0–127

Pitch Bend

Control

Change

24

fig.MIDI-Imp.e

X : No

O : Yes

X

X

X

XXX

X

X

XXX

X

1–128

X

**************

: True Number

Program

Change

System Exclusive

XXX

: Song Position

: Song Select

System

Common

X

: Tune Request

: Clock

System

X

XXXXO

: Commands

Real Time

Reset All Controller

: All Sound Off

:

: Local On/Off

Aux

X

* 1 Messages are tx over particular conditions.

: All Notes Off

: Active Sensing

: System Reset

Messages

Notes

Mode 2 : OMNI ON, MONO

Mode 4 : OMNI OFF, MONO

Mode 1 : OMNI ON, POLY

Mode 3 : OMNI OFF, POLY

25

Specifications

Keyboard

49 keys (velocity sensitive)

MIDI Control

MIDI Channels (1 to 16)
Octave Shift (Up, Down, Standard) (Note Numbers 0 to 127)
Bender/Modulation Wheel (Modulation On/Off)
Data Entry Slider

Controller Numbers 00/32 (GS Variation selection)
Channel Aftertouch
Velocity
Chorus Send Level
Reverb Send Level
Panpot
Volume
Others (Controller Numbers 0 to 127)

Display

7 segments, 3 characters (LED)

Rear Panel

Power Switch, Sustain Switch jack, AC Adaptor jack, and MIDI OUT connector

Power Supply

DC 9 V: AC Adaptor (ACP or ACI series)

Current Draw

160 mA

Dimensions

844 (W) x 210 (D) x 73 (H) mm
33-1/4 (W) x 8-5/16 (D) x 2-7/8 (H) inches

Weight

2.7 kg/6 lbs

Accessories

Owner's Manual, MIDI Cable, Pedal Switch, AC Adaptor

* In the interest of product improvement, the specifications and/or appearance of this unit are subject to

change without prior notice.

26

Information

When you need repair service, call your nearest Roland/EDIROL Service Center or authorized Roland/EDIROL distributor
in your country as shown below.

AFRICA

AFRICA

EGYPT

Al Fanny Trading Office

P.O. Box 2904,
El Horrieh Heliopolos, Cairo,
EGYPT
TEL: [phone]

REUNION

Maison FO - YAM Marcel

25 Rue Jules MermanZL
Chaudron - BP79 97491
Ste Clotilde REUNION
TEL: 28 29 16

SOUTH AFRICA

That Other Music Shop
(PTY) Ltd.

11 Melle Street (Cnr Melle and
Juta Street)
Braamfontein 2001
Republic of SOUTH AFRICA
TEL: [phone]

Paul Bothner (PTY) Ltd.

17 Werdmuller Centre Claremont
7700
Republic of SOUTH AFRICA

P.O. Box 23032
Claremont, Cape Town
SOUTH AFRICA, 7735
TEL: [phone]

ASIA

CHINA

Beijing Xinghai Musical
Instruments Co., Ltd.

6 Huangmuchang Chao Yang
District, Beijing, CHINA
TEL: [phone]

HONG KONG

Tom Lee Music Co., Ltd.
Service Division

22-32 Pun Shan Street, Tsuen
Wan, New Territories,
HONG KONG
TEL: [phone]

INDIA

Rivera Digitec (India) Pvt. Ltd.

409, Nirman Kendra Mahalaxmi
Flats Compound Off. Dr. Edwin
Moses Road, Mumbai-400011,
INDIA
TEL: [phone]

INDONESIA

PT Citra IntiRama

J1. Cideng Timur No. 15J-150
Jakarta Pusat
INDONESIA
TEL: [phone]

KOREA

Cosmos Corporation
Service Station

261 2nd Floor Nak-Won Arcade
Jong-Ro ku, Seoul, KOREA
TEL: [phone]

MALAYSIA

Bentley Music SDN BHD

140 & 142, Jalan Bukit Bintang
55100 Kuala Lumpur,MALAYSIA
TEL: [phone]

PHILIPPINES

G.A. Yupangco & Co. Inc.

339 Gil J. Puyat Avenue
Makati, Metro Manila 1200,
PHILIPPINES
TEL: [phone]

SINGAPORE

CRISTOFORI MUSIC PTE
LTD

Blk 3014, Bedok Industrial Park E,
#02-2148, SINGAPORE 489980
TEL: [phone]

TAIWAN

ROLAND TAIWAN
ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.

Room 5, 9fl. No. 112 Chung Shan
N.Road Sec.2, Taipei, TAIWAN,
R.O.C.
TEL: [phone]

THAILAND

Theera Music Co. , Ltd.

330 Verng NakornKasem, Soi 2,
Bangkok 10100, THAILAND
TEL: [phone]

VIETNAM

Saigon Music

138 Tran Quang Khai St.,
District 1
Ho Chi Minh City
VIETNAM
TEL: [phone]

AUSTRALIA/
NEW ZEALAND

NEW ZEALAND

Roland Corporation (NZ) Ltd.

97 Mt. Eden Road, Mt. Eden,
Auckland 3, NEW ZEALAND
TEL: [phone]

CENTRAL/LATIN
AMERICA

ARGENTINA

Instrumentos Musicales S.A.

Florida 656 2nd Floor
Office Number 206A
Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA, CP1005
TEL: [phone]

BRAZIL

Roland Brasil Ltda.

R. Coronel Octaviano da Silveira
203 05522-010
Sao Paulo BRAZIL
TEL: [phone]

MEXICO

Casa Veerkamp, s.a. de c.v.

Av. Toluca No. 323 Col. Olivar de
los Padres 01780 Mexico D.F.
MEXICO
TEL: [phone]

La Casa Wagner de
Guadalajara s.a. de c.v.

Av. Corona No. 202 S.J.
Guadalajara, Jalisco Mexico
C.P.44100 MEXICO
TEL: [phone]

PANAMA

Productos Superiores, S.A.

Calle Canfield-Albrook, Panama
REP. DE PANAMA
TEL: [phone]

URUGUAY

Todo Musica

Cuareim 1488, Montevideo,
URUGUAY
TEL: [phone]

VENEZUELA

Musicland Digital C.A.

Av. Francisco de Miranda,
Centro Parque de Cristal, Nivel
C2 Local 20 Caracas
VENEZUELA
TEL: [phone]

EUROPE

AUSTRIA

Roland Austria GES.M.B.H.

Siemensstrasse 4, P.O. Box 74,
A-6063 RUM, AUSTRIA
TEL: [phone]

BELGIUM/HOLLAND/
LUXEMBOURG

Roland Benelux N. V.

Houtstraat 3 B-2260 Oevel
(Westerlo) BELGIUM
TEL: [phone]

DENMARK

Roland Scandinavia A/S

Nordhavnsvej 7, Postbox 880
DK-2100 Copenhagen
DENMARK
TEL: [phone]

FRANCE

Roland France SA

4, Rue Paul Henri SPAAK
Parc de l'Esplanade F 77 462 St.
Thibault Lagny Cedex FRANCE
TEL: [phone]

FINLAND

Roland Scandinavia As,
Filial Finland

Lauttasaarentie 54 B
Fin-00201 Helsinki, FINLAND
TEL: [phone]

GERMANY

Roland Elektronische
Musikinstrumente
Handelsgesellschaft mbH.

Oststrasse 96, 22844 Norderstedt,
GERMANY
TEL: [phone]

GREECE

STOLLAS S.A.
Music Sound Light

155, New National Road
26422 Patras, GREECE
TEL: [phone]

HUNGARY

Intermusica Ltd.

Warehouse Area ‘DEPO’ Pf.83
H-2046 Torokbalint, HUNGARY
TEL: [phone]

IRELAND

Roland Ireland

Audio House, Belmont Court,
Donnybrook, Dublin 4.
Republic of IRELAND
TEL: [phone]

ITALY

Roland Italy S. p. A.

Viale delle Industrie, 8
20020 Arese Milano, ITALY
TEL: [phone]

NORWAY

Roland Scandinavia Avd.
Kontor Norge

Lilleakerveien 2 Postboks 95
Lilleaker N-0216 Oslo
NORWAY
TEL: [phone]

POLAND

P. P. H. Brzostowicz

UL. Gibraltarska 4.
PL-03664 Warszawa POLAND
TEL: [phone]

PORTUGAL

Tecnologias Musica e Audio,
Roland Portugal, S.A.

RUA DE SANTA CARARINA
131 - 4000 Porto -PORTUGAL
TEL: [phone]

ROMANIA

FBS LINES

Plata Libertatii 1.
RO-4200 Cheorgheni
TEL: [phone]

RUSSIA

Slami Music Company

Sadojava-Triumfalnaja st., 16
103006 Moscow, RUSSIA
TEL: [phone]

SPAIN

Roland Electronics
de España, S. A.

Calle Bolivia 239 08020 Barcelona,
SPAIN
TEL: [phone]

SWEDEN

Roland Scandinavia A/S
SWEDISH SALES OFFICE

Danvik Center 28, 2 tr.
S-131 30 Nacka SWEDEN
TEL: [phone]

SWITZERLAND

Roland (Switzerland) AG
Musitronic AG

Gerberstrasse 5, CH-4410 Liestal,
SWITZERLAND
TEL: [phone]

UKRAINE

TIC-TAC

Mira Str. 19/108
P.O. Box 180
295400 Munkachevo, UKRAINE
TEL: [phone]

UNITED KINGDOM

Roland (U.K.) Ltd.

Atlantic Close, Swansea
Enterprise Park SWANSEA
SA7 9FJ,
UNITED KINGDOM
TEL: [phone]

MIDDLE EAST

BAHRAIN

Moon Stores

Bab Al Bahrain Road,
P.O. Box 20077
State of BAHRAIN
TEL: 211 005

CYPRUS

Radex Sound Equipment Ltd.

17 Diagorou St., P.O. Box 2046,
Nicosia CYPRUS
TEL: [phone]

ISRAEL

Halilit P. Greenspoon &
Sons Ltd.

8 Retzif Fa'aliya Hashnya St.
Tel-Aviv-Yaho ISRAEL
TEL: [phone]

JORDAN

AMMAN Trading Agency

Prince Mohammed St. P.O. Box
825 Amman 11118 JORDAN
TEL: [phone]

KUWAIT

Easa Husain Al-Yousifi

P.O. Box 126 Safat 13002
KUWAIT
TEL: [phone]

LEBANON

A. Chahine & Fils

P.O. Box 16-5857 Gergi Zeidan St.
Chahine Building, Achrafieh
Beirut, LEBANON
TEL: [phone]

OMAN

OHI Electronics & Trading
Co. LLC

P.O. Box 889 Muscat
Sultanate of OMAN
TEL: 959085

QATAR

Badie Studio & Stores

P.O. Box 62,
DOHA QATAR
TEL: 423554

SAUDI ARABIA

aDawliah Universal
Electronics APL

P.O. Box 2154 ALKHOBAR 31952,
SAUDI ARABIA
TEL: [phone]

SYRIA

Technical Light & Sound
Center

Khaled Ibn Al Walid St.
P.O. Box 13520
Damascus - SYRIA
TEL: [phone]

TURKEY

Barkat Muzik aletleri ithalat
ve ihracat Ltd Sti

Siraselviler cad.Guney is hani 84­86/6, Taksim. Istanbul. TURKEY
TEL: [phone]

U.A.E.

Zak Electronics & Musical
Instruments Co.

Zabeel Road, Al Sherooq Bldg.,
No. 14, Grand Floor DUBAI
U.A.E.
P.O. Box 8050 DUBAI, U.A.E.
TEL: [phone]

AUSTRALIA

EDIROL Australia Pty. Ltd.

72 Central Avenue
Oak Flats NSW 2529
AUSTRALIA
TEL: [phone]

U. S. A. / CANADA

EDIROL Corporation North
America

808 Harrison Ave., Suite 2010
P.O. Box 4919
Blaine, WA 98231
U. S. A.
TEL: [phone]

EUROPE

EDIROL (Europe) Ltd.

Studio 3.4 114 Power Road
London W4 5PY
U. K.
TEL: [phone]

As of May 12, 2000 (EDIROL)

02343089 ’00-6-C4-11SK