Roland Prelude User Manual

201a

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

Owner’s Manual

Conventions Used in This Manual

Operating buttons are enclosed by square brackets [ ]; e.g., [ENTER].
Reference pages are indicated by (p. **).

The following symbols are used.

This indicates an important note; be sure to read it.
This indicates a memo regarding the setting or function; read it as desired.
This indicates a useful hint for operation; read it as necessary.
This indicates information for your reference; read it as necessary.
This indicates an explanation of a term; read it as necessary.

* 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 © 2009 ROLAND EUROPE Spa
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the

written permission of ROLAND EUROPE.

For the U.K.

Using the unit safely

About WARNING and CAUTION Notices

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

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

* Material damage refers to damage or

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

ALWAYS OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING

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 install the unit in any of the following
locations.

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

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

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

• Exposed to steam or smoke; or are

• Subject to salt exposure; or are

• Humid; or are

• Exposed to rain; or are

• Dusty or sandy; or are

• Subject to high levels of vibration and shakiness.

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

005

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

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

About the Symbols

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

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

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

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.

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

3

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.

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

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

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

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

•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. 14).

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

110b

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

4

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

Important notes

In addition to the items listed under “Using the unit safely” (p. 3), please read and observe the following:

Power Supply

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

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

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

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

•Noise may be produced if wireless communications devices, such
as cell phones, are operated in the vicinity of the Prelude. 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.

Placement

• 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maintenance

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

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

Repairs and Data

•Please be aware that all data contained in the unit’s memory may
be lost when the unit is sent for repairs. Important data should
always be backed up a USB memory, 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.

Memory Backup
Additional Precautions

•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 to a USB
memory.

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

• 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.

•Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.

•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.

• 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).

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

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

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

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

• 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.

Using USB Memory

•When connecting USB memory, firmly insert it all the way in.

• Do not touch the pins of the USB memory connector, or allow them
to become dirty.

• USB memory is made using high-precision electronic components,
so please observe the following points when handling it.

• To prevent damage from static electrical charges, discharge
any static electricity that might be present in your body before
handling USB memory.

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

5

Important notes

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

• Do not leave USB memory in direct sunlight or in locations such
as a closed-up automobile. (Storage temperature: 0–50
degrees C)

• Do not allow USB memory to become wet.

• Do not disassemble or modify USB memory.

•When connecting USB memory, position it horizontally with the
USB memory connector and insert it without using excessive force.
The USB memory connector may be damaged if you use excessive
force when inserting USB memory.

• Do not insert anything other than USB memory (e.g., wire, coins,
other types of device) into the USB memory connector. Doing so
will damage the USB memory connector.

• Do not apply excessive force to the connected USB memory.

• Attach the USB memory cover when you’re not using USB memory.

Handling CD-ROMs

• 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

*Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft

Corporation. The screen shots in this document are used in
compliance with the guidelines of the Microsoft Corporation.

* Pentium is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation.

*All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or

registered trademarks of their respective owners.

* MMP (Moore Microprocessor Portfolio) refers to a patent portfolio

concerned with microprocessor architecture, which was developed
by Technology Properties Limited (TPL).
Roland has licensed this technology from the TPL Group.

*MPEG Layer-3 audio compression technology is licensed from

Fraunhofer IIS Corporation and THOMSON Multimedia Corpo­ration.

*MatrixQuest™ 2008 TEPCO UQUEST, LTD. All

rights reserved.
The Prelude’s USB functionality uses Matrix-Quest
middleware technology from TEPCO UQUEST, LTD.

6

Main Features

The Ideal Music Keyboard for Entertainment

High-quality sounds

●

The latest sounds generated by a top-level sound generator with 128-voice polyphony

●

High-quality localized sounds

Three backing functions that assist your performances

●

High-quality Music Style engine with the latest Styles

❍

Four variations each for Intro, Main, and Ending.

❍

Included “StyleConverter” software lets you create Styles on your computer.
Styles you’ve created can be installed in the Prelude as User Styles via USB memory.

●

USB Memory Player function lets you play MP3/WAV/AIFF/SMF data

❍

You can apply the Center Cancel function to audio, or enjoy “minus-one” performance using
SMF data.

❍

Included “Playlist Editor” software lets you create playlists on your computer.
You can easily create a playlist for each of your performances.

●

16-track song sequencer is built-in, allowing you to record your performances on the Prelude

❍

SMF data can be stored in internal memory, and played back or used for “minus-one”
performance.

Designed for easy use

●

High-quality 11W stereo amplification system with two built-in speakers.

●

Lightweight and compact body designed for portability

●

Large, full-graphic white LCD for excellent visibility

●

Friendly user interface featuring Style Family buttons for direct selection

●

Intuitive controllers such as the D Beam controller

Import sounds via USB memory

●

USB Import function allows you to add sounds (Tones)
New sounds can be added via USB memory.

7

Contents

Using the unit safely ..........................3

Important notes .................................5

Main Features....................................7

Panel Descriptions............................10

Front Panel ........................................................10

Rear Panel.........................................................12

Introduction.....................................13

About the Prelude..................................... 13

About Memory...................................................13

Making Connections................................. 14

Connecting the AC Adaptor.................................14

Connecting External Equipment............................ 15

Connecting a pedal and switch.................................. 15

Connecting an audio player to the EXT INPUT jack....... 15

Turning the Power On/Off ........................ 15

Turning the power on................................................15

Turning the power off................................................ 15

Adjusting the Display Contrast ([LCD

CONTRAST] knob)................................... 16

Basic Operation....................................... 16

Changing a Value .............................................. 16

Moving the cursor..................................................... 16

Changing a value..................................................... 16

Main Screen...................................................... 16

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

Restoring the Prelude to Its Factory Settings.. 17
Preserving Certain Settings Even When You

Switch Performances (Lock System)............. 17

Input settings for the EXT INPUT jack........... 18

Keyboard Mode Functions................19

Playing Sounds from the Keyboard

(Keyboard Mode)..................................... 19

Using Single Mode............................................. 19

Using Piano Mode.................................................... 19

Using Split Mode ([SPLIT]).................................... 19

Changing the Split Point............................................ 19

Using Dual Mode ([DUAL]) ..................................19

Selecting a Tone ([TONE])......................... 20

Using the VALUE dial................................................ 20

Choosing from the Tone list........................................ 20

Switching to an Arabian Scale or Other

Temperament........................................... 20

Changing the Key Touch ([KEY TOUCH]).... 21

Shifting the Keyboard Pitch in Octave Steps

(OCTAVE Buttons).................................... 21

Transposing Keyboard Sounds and Songs

Played Back (TRANSPOSE) ....................... 21

Adding Harmony to the Upper Tone

(MELODY INTELL)..................................... 22

Using the Metronome ............................... 22

Other Functions ....................................... 22

Backing Track Functions................... 23

Selecting the Backing Types

(Style/Song/USB Memory Player)........................ 23

Adjusting the Volume Balance between Backing and

Keyboard (BALANCE buttons).............................. 23

Adjusting the Tempo ([TAP TEMPO])..................... 23

Using the metronome.................................................23

Style (Playing with an Accompaniment)....... 24

Playing Back a Style ([STYLE]).............................. 24

Changing the Variations ............................................24

Stopping a Style .......................................................24

Adjusting the Part Balance ([PART VIEW]) ....................24

Sync Start/Stop (SYNC buttons)..................................25

Saving the Current Settings in a Performance......... 25

Selecting a Music Style ....................................... 25

Selecting a Style .......................................................25

Adding User Styles

(Importing from USB memory).....................................25

Deleting a User Style .................................................25

Back up User Style (Exporting to USB memory) .............26

Using the Recommended Sound Settings for a Style

([ONE TOUCH]) ................................................ 26

Other Functions Related to Music Style.................. 26

Song ...................................................... 26

Recording a New Song ([SONG REC])................. 26

Recording in the Main screen .....................................26

Recording a specified Part (SONG TRACK)..................27

Re-recording Your Performance............................ 28

Saving a Song ([WRITE])..................................... 28

Loading Song Data from USB Memory.................. 29

Deleting a Song................................................. 29

Selecting and Playing a Song ([SONG])............... 29

Moving the playback location of a song ......................30

Performing along with a song

([MINUS ONE/CENTER CANCEL]).............................30

Back Up Song Files ............................................ 30

Other Functions Related to Song .......................... 30

8

USB Memory Player

(SMF/Audio File Player)............................ 30

Playing Back SMF/Audio Files ............................. 30

USB Memory Player Screens................................31

Song Playback ([USB MEMORY PLAYER]).............. 31

Selecting a playlist and playing it............................... 31

Selecting and playing a song from within a songlist...... 32

Selecting and playing back ‘external’ songs without creating

a playlist ................................................................. 32

Performing along with a song

([MINUS ONE/CENTER CANCEL])............................ 32

Editing Playlist.................................................... 33

Selecting the playback mode ..................................... 33

Changing the song order .......................................... 33

Deleting the song ..................................................... 33

Adjusting the volume of each song .............................33

Saving playlist settings to USB memory ([WRITE]) ......... 33

Performance Functions and Effects....34

Performance Features ............................... 34

D Beam Controller.............................................. 34

Assigning a function to the D Beam controller ..............34

Pitch Bend and Modulation Lever..........................36

Assignable Pedal................................................ 36

Using Preset Performances......................... 36

Selecting a Performance ([PERFORM])...................36

Using the VALUE dial................................................ 36

Choosing from the Performance list............................. 36

Editing a Performance.........................................37

Editing a Tone.................................................... 38

Editing a Tone in detail ............................................. 38

Saving a Performance (WRITE)............................. 39

Other Functions Related to Performance ................39

System Settings ...............................45

How to Make System Settings ([MENU]) ..... 45

System Parameters ............................................. 45

Viewing Information about Prelude (System Version

Info Screens)...................................................... 47

Using USB Memory..........................48

Initializing USB Memory

(USB Memory Format) .............................. 48

Saving User Data to USB Memory (Backup) 48

Loading User Data Saved on USB Memory (Import) 48

Deleting user data that you loaded..............................49

Data Structure in USB Memory............................. 49

Importing Data You’ve Saved in USB Memory

([USB IMPORT]) ....................................... 49

About V-LINK .................................. 50

How to Use the V-LINK ([V-LINK]) ......................... 50

V-LINK Settings (V-LINK SETUP) ............................ 50

Appendices ..................................... 53

Troubleshooting ....................................... 53

Error Messages........................................ 55

Effects List ............................................... 56

Multi-Effects Parameters..............................................56

Chorus Parameters ....................................................82

Reverb Parameters ....................................................83

Tone List ................................................. 84

Rhythm Set List......................................... 92

Chord Intelligence.................................. 102

MIDI Implementation Chart...................... 104

Specifications........................................ 105

Using Reverb, Chorus and MFX Effects

([REVERB])............................................... 40

Editing the Reverb, Chorus and MFX Effects...........40

Using MIDI ......................................42

MIDI Channels......................................... 42

MIDI Parameters ...................................... 42

Local Switch............................................................. 42

Using the Prelude as a MIDI Sound Module. 43
Connecting to a Computer via the USB MIDI

Connector ............................................... 44

If connection to your computer is unsuccessful.............. 44

Making the Settings for the USB Driver..................44

Index ............................................ 106

9

Panel Descriptions

Front Panel

1. VOLUME knob

This knob controls the volume of the entire Prelude.
Beware of excessive levels as they may cause the
speakers to distort for some sounds.

2.

Pitch Bend/Modulation lever

You can raise or lower the pitch by moving this lever to
the left or right. Push the lever away from yourself to apply
modulation (normally vibrato) to the sound (p. 36).

3.

PHONES 1 & 2 sockets

This is where you can connect two pairs of optional
headphones (Roland RH-25, RH-50, RH-200 or RH-300).
Doing so will switch off the internal speakers.

1

2

3

4

5

6

4.

D BEAM controller

Use this controller simply by moving your hand above it
(p. 34).

5.

D BEAM control buttons
PITCH: Allows you to change the pitch of the notes you

are playing simply by moving your hand up and down
above the D Beam controller.

FILTER & VOLUME: Use these buttons to turn the D Beam

controller on/off, or to select the Filter or Volume function
(p. 34). You can also assign other functions to this button.

6.

STYLE FAMILY buttons

These buttons allow you to select one of the twelve Style
categories.

BACKING TRACK section

7. BACKING TYPE buttons

Use these buttons to select the backing type (p. 23).

8.

BALANCE buttons

Use these buttons to adjust the volume balance between
the backing and the keyboard. (p. 23)

9.

PART VIEW button

Use this to adjust the volume, etc. of each part (p. 24,

27).

7 8 9

11 12 13

14

10.

SONG REC button

Press this button to record a Song (p. 26).

11. STYLE CONTROL buttons

Use these buttons to select the desired Style pattern (p. 24).

12. SYNC buttons

These buttons allow you to start/stop the Style by playing
a note in the left side of the keyboard (p. 25).

13.

TAP TEMPO button

Use this button to set the tempo (p. 23).

14. VARIATION [1]–[4], AUTO FILL-IN, START/STOP, and

10

SONG CONTROL buttons

The operation of these buttons will depend on which
BACKING TYPE button [7] currently lights.

If you’ve used the BACKING TYPE buttons (7) to select
“STYLE,” these buttons will start/stop the Style or select
variations (p. 24).

If you’ve used the BACKING TYPE buttons (7) to select
“SONG” or “USB MEMORY PLAYER,” these buttons control
the song playback as the SONG/USB MEMORY PLAYER
CONTROL buttons (p. 30, p. 31).

15.

Display

This displays various information according to the
operations you perform.

15

10

Panel Descriptions

16

16. VALUE dial

Use this to edit the value of the parameters (settings) in the
screen.

17

19 20

21 22

18

EDIT section

17. Cursor buttons ([ ] [ ] [ ] [ ])

Use these buttons to move the cursor in the screen.

18. EXIT and ENTER buttons

Pressed to issue the “Cancel” (EXIT) or “Execute” (ENTER)
commands in screens that prompt you to make such a
selection.

You’ll also use the ENTER button to access lists of Tones,
Performances, Styles, or Songs.

23 24 25 26 30 31

27 28 29

34

26.

27.

28.

29.

32 33

V-LINK button

Switching this on lets you control external V-LINK
compatible video equipment (p. 50).

OCTAVE buttons

Use these buttons to raise or lower the pitch of the
keyboard in one-octave steps (p. 21).

TRANSPOSE button

These button allow you to transpose the Prelude up or
down in semitone steps (p. 21).

MELODY INTELL button

Press this button to add an automatic counter-melody
(second and third voice) to your solos or melodies (p. 22).

19.

MENU button

This button takes you to the settings screen for various
parameters (p. 45).

20.

REVERB button

This button lets you make effect settings (p. 40).

21. WRITE button

Press this button to save various types of settings (p. 28,
33, 39).

22.

NUMERIC button

You can input numerical values with the TONE SELECT
buttons (37) when this button is lit (p. 16).

KEYBOARD section

23. SPLIT button

This button selects “Split mode,” whereby the keyboard is
divided into two regions, allowing you to play separate
sounds with the right and left hands (p. 19).

24.

DUAL button

Switches the Prelude to “Dual mode,” which enables
performances with two separate Tones layered together
(p. 19).

MODE section

30. TONE button

Press this button when you want to select or edit a Tone
(p. 20). Tones you edit are stored in the Performance.

31.

PERFORM button

Press this button when you want to select or edit a
Performance (p. 36).

32.

ONE TOUCH button

This applies the recommended sound settings for the
currently selected Style (p. 26).

33.

USB IMPORT button

You can use USB memory to add Tones or update the
system (p. 49).

34.

[PIANO]~[SPECIAL] (Tone Select buttons)/[0]~[9]

Use these buttons to select Tones by category (p. 20).
You can also input numerical values with these buttons

when the NUMERIC button is on (p. 16).

25.

KEY TOUCH button

Press this button to make the keyboard’s touch sensitivity
lighter or heavier (p. 21).

11

Panel Descriptions

Rear Panel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

1. LCD CONTRAST knob

Adjusts the display’s contrast (p. 16).

2. MIDI OUT/IN connectors

Connect MIDI devices to these connectors (p. 42).

3.

CONTROL PEDAL jack

Connect a separately available pedal switch (Roland DP
Series), a separately available foot switch (BOSS FS-5U)
or a separately available expression pedal (Roland EV-5)
to this jack (p. 15, p. 36).

4.

HOLD PEDAL jack

Connect a separately available pedal switch (Roland DP
Series) to this jack (p. 15).

5.

EXT INPUT jack

Connect a portable audio player or other audio source to
thise mini jack (p. 15, p. 18).

11

10

OUTPUT R, L/MONO jacks

6.

The Prelude is fitted with the finest amplification system
Roland has ever developed for its arranger keyboards.
You therefore may not need to connect it to an external
amplification system. These jacks output the audio signal
to the connected mixer/amplifier system in stereo. For
mono output, use the L jack (p. 15).

7.

USB MIDI port

Use a USB cable to connect the Prelude to your computer
via this connector (p. 48).

8.

USB MEMORY port

Connect a USB memory here and use the Prelude to play
back files (songs) that have been stored on USB memory.
You can also back up data to USB memory.

9.

DC IN jack

Connect the included AC adaptor here (p. 14).

10.

POWER switch

This turns the power on/off (p. 15).

11.

Cord hook

Use this to secure the AC adaptor cord (p. 14).

12

Introduction

About the Prelude

What is a Performance? (p. 36)

A “Performance” is a group of settings that specifies the Tone
and Style, the keyboard mode, and various other parameters.

What is a Tone? (p. 20)

On the Prelude, each of the sounds you normally play is called
a “Tone.” If we use the analogy of an orchestra, a Tone
corresponds to an instrument played by one of the musicians.

Tone settings, such as those for effects and filters, are stored in
the Performance.

What is Backing? (p. 23)

“Backing” refers to the automatic accompaniment functionality
of the Prelude.

There are three types of backing: you can choose from
“STYLE,” “SONG,” and “USB MEMORY PLAYER.”

What is a Music Style? (p. 24)

A “Music Style” is a musical template used by a Backing. The
Prelude contains a variety of Music Styles such as rock, pop,
Latin, and jazz. You can also add Style data by using a USB
memory (p. 48).

* You can use the included “StyleConverter” software to

create Styles on your computer.

What is a Song? (p. 26)

The Prelude contains a 16-track MIDI song sequencer, which
you can use to record the music you play. You can add a
Backing to the performance you play on the keyboard, and
save the result as a Song. You can also import Song data from
a USB memory .

What is a USB Memory Player? (p. 30)

This plays audio files or SMF data that has been stored in USB
memory.

You can perform on the Prelude accompanied by backing
from an audio file or SMF.

About Memory

Performance settings are stored in what is referred to as
memory. There are three kind of memory: temporary,
rewritable, and non-rewritable.

fig.Memory-Flow.eps

Prelude

Preset

Performance

System

Performance

Import and export

System/

Sound

USB Memory

Tone

User

Style Song

Style

Style

Song

Playlist

Playlist

Song file

Temporary memory

Temporary area

This area holds the data of the Performance you’ve selected
using the front panel buttons, and also holds the playlist you
edited on the Prelude.

When you play the Prelude, sound is produced based on data
in the temporary area. When you edit a performance, you do
not directly modify 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
performance. To keep the settings you have modified, you
must write them into rewritable memory.

Rewritable memory

Select

Write

Load

Write

Temporary
area

Performance

Tone
Style

Song

Playlist

System memory

System memory stores system parameter settings that
determine how the Prelude functions.

* Some settings cannot be overwritten. For details, refer to

“System settings that are not stored” (p. 47).

User memory

User memory is where you normally store the data you need.
To store a Performance or a Song, execute Write procedure

(p. 28, 39).

13

Introduction

Non-Rewritable memory

Preset memory

Data in Preset memory cannot be rewritten. However, you can
call up settings from preset Performances into the temporary
area, modify them and then store the modified data in
rewritable memory.

Making Connections

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.

USB memory

You can back up your settings to USB memory in the following
units of data. (p. 48)

• Sound/System
User Performances, System settings

•Style
User Styles

• Song
User Songs

•All
Style and Song in addition to the Sound/System data
listed above

When connection cables with resistors are used, the volume
level of equipment connected to the input (EXT INPUT jack)
may be low. If this happens, use connection cables that do not
contain resistors.

Connecting the AC Adaptor

1. Make sure that the [POWER] switch is off.

2. Move the VOLUME knob all the way to the left to minimize

the volume.

3. Connect the included power cord to the included AC

adaptor.

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

fig.ACadap.eps

AC adaptor

Indicator

Power cord

to an AC outlet

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

Depending on your region, the included AC adaptor may be a
different type than the one shown above. If so, omit step 3 and
proceed.

4. Connect the AC adaptor to the DC IN jack on the Prelude’s

rear panel, and then plug the AC adaptor into an electrical
outlet.

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.

14

fig.codef.eps

Prelude rear panel

Cord hook

Introduction

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.

Connecting an audio player to the
EXT INPUT jack

Connecting External Equipment

The Prelude contains an internal amplification system but can
also be connected to audio equipment such as a monitor
speaker or a stereo set, or use headphones.

You can record your playing (or a song recorded on the
Prelude) onto an audio recording device. Connect the OUTPUT
jacks on the Prelude’s rear panel to the input jacks of your
external device.

Stereo

headphones

You can connect an MP3 player or other audio device to the
Prelude’s EXT INPUT jack, and listen to the playback.

“Input settings for the EXT INPUT jack” (p. 18)

Turning the Power On/Off

Turning the power on

Once the connections have been completed (p. 14), 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.

1. Before you turn on the power, turn the [VOLUME] knob all

the way to the left to minimize the volume.

2. Press the rear panel [POWER] switch to turn on the power.

Monitor speakers, etc.

The internal speakers are switched off when you connect one
or two pairs of headphones.

Connecting a pedal and switch

You must switch off the Prelude’s power before you connect a
pedal and/or switch.

Connect a separately available pedal switch (Roland DP
Series) to the HOLD PEDAL jack on the rear panel. You can
use this pedal switch to sustain notes even after taking your
hands off the keyboard.

Connect a separately available pedal switch (Roland DP
Series), a separately available foot switch (Boss FS-5U) or
separately available expression pedal (Roland EV-5) to the
rear panel CONTROL PEDAL jack. You can use this to control
various functions that you assign (p. 36).

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.

If the Prelude is connected to a keyboard amp or audio amp,
turn on the power of the Prelude first, and then switch on your
amp.

3.

Turn the [VOLUME] knob to adjust the volume of the
Prelude.

Turning the power off

1. Before you turn off the power, turn the [VOLUME] knob all

the way to the left to minimize the volume.

Press the [POWER] switch once again to turn off the power.

2.

If the Prelude is connected to a keyboard amp or audio amp,
switch off the power to your amp first, then turn off the power
on the Prelude.

15

Introduction

Adjusting the Display Contrast ([LCD CONTRAST] knob)

1. Turn the [LCD CONTRAST] knob on the rear panel.

Basic Operation

Changing a Value

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.

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

Changing a value

Main Screen

The following screen, which appears after you turn on the
power, is called the “Main screen.” This screen will be shown
most of the time you’re performing with the Prelude.

(1)
(2)

(3) (4)

1. The number and name of the currently selected Style or of

the currently selected Song

2. The group, number, and name of the currently selected

Performance

3. The number and name of the Tone selected for the Lower

Part

4. The number and name of the Tone selected for the Upper

Part

5. The measure number, tempo, and time signature of the Style

or Song

6. Chord indication

(5)

(6)

To change the value, use the VALUE dial.

Entering numerical values ([NUMERIC])

If you turn [NUMERIC] on, you’ll be able to use the TONE
SELECT buttons ([PIANO]–[SPECIAL]) to enter numerical values.

This is convenient when selecting Tones (p. 20), Styles (p. 25),
Performances (p. 36), or Songs (p. 29).

1. Use the cursor buttons or [STYLE], [SONG], [TONE] or

[PERFORM] to move the cursor to the numerical value you
want to change.

2. Press [NUMERIC].

All of the TONE SELECT buttons will light.

3. Use the TONE SELECT buttons to enter the desired value,

and press [ENTER].

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 allow you to make settings, and others ask
you to confirm an operation.

fig.disp-tempo.eps_80

Press [EXIT] to close the window. Some windows will close
automatically when an operation is performed.

16

Listening to the Demo Songs

Introduction

4. Press [ENTER] to execute the Factory Reset.

If you press [EXIT] instead, you’re returned to the previous
screen and no Factory Reset takes place.

1. Press [MENU].

2. Use [ ] [ ] to select “Demo Play” then press [ENTER].

3. Use the cursor buttons to select the song you want to hear

then press [ENTER].

Press [PIANO (0)] to play back all of the demo songs.

4. Press [START/STOP] to stop demo playback.

5. Press [EXIT] to return to the Main screen.

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

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

Restoring the Prelude to Its
Factory Settings

You can return all of Prelude’s settings to the factory-set state.
This is called “Factory Reset.”

If the Prelude’s internal memory already contains important
data that you’ve created, all of this data will be lost when you
execute a Factory Reset. If you want to keep your data, you
must save it to USB memory (p. 48).

1. Press [MENU].

2. Use [ ] [ ] to select “Utility” then press [ENTER].

3. Use the cursor buttons to select “Factory Reset” then press

[ENTER].

The confirmation message will appear.

5. Turn the power off and then on again.

Restoring the factory settings will initialize the System and User
Performance settings.

Preserving Certain Settings Even When You Switch Performances (Lock System)

The settings for which you select “ON” (as described below)
will not change even when you switch Performances.

Choosing the settings that will be locked

1. Press the [MENU] button and select “System”.

2. Confirm your choice by pressing [ENTER].

3. Press the [ ] button several times until the “System

Lock” page is displayed.

4. Use [ ] [ ] to select the parameter, and turn the

VALUE dial to select the value.

Parameter

Style

Tone

Style Tempo

Transpose

5. Press [EXIT].

You will see the message “System Write Completed.”

The Style will not change when you
switch Performances.

The Tones will not change when you
switch Performances.

The Style tempo will not change
when you switch Performances.

The transpose setting (p. 21) will not
change when you switch
Performances.

Explanation Value

OFF, ON

OFF, ON

OFF, ON

OFF, ON

These settings are system parameters (p. 45).

17

Introduction

Input settings for the EXT INPUT jack

Here you can specify whether the sound from the EXT INPUT
jack (p. 15) will be used.

You can also specify whether the Center Cancel function will
be applied to the sound from the EXT INPUT jack.

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

Center Cancel function minimizes the playback volume of the
sound that’s heard from the center (e.g., vocal or melody
instrument).

1. Press [MENU].

2. Use [ ] [ ] to select “Ext Input Setting” then press

[ENTER].

3. Use [ ] [ ] to select the item that you want to change.

Parameter

External
Input

Center
Cancel

4. Turn the VALUE dial to set the value.

5. When you’re finished making settings, press [EXIT].

The “External Input” and “Center Cancel” settings cannot be
saved to User Programs or the System memory. “External
Input” is reset to “On” and “Center Cancel” to “Off” each time
you switch on the Prelude.

Turns the input from the EXT
INPUT jack ON or OFF.

Specifies whether the Center
Cancel function will be applied to
the sound from the EXT INPUT
jack (ON) or will not be applied
(OFF).

Explanation Value

OFF, ON

OFF, ON

18

Keyboard Mode Functions

Playing Sounds from the
Keyboard (Keyboard Mode)

Immediately after you turn on the power, the Prelude will be in
a state where you can use the entire keyboard to play a piano
sound. The Prelude’s keyboard can operate in one of the
following three modes.

SINGLE

SPLIT

DUAL

If BACKING TYPE [STYLE] is on, the left region of the keyboard
(the Lower Part) is used to enter chords (p. 24).

The entire keyboard plays one Tone.
The region of the keyboard to the left of the Split

Point becomes the Lower Part, while the region of
the keyboard to the right of the Split Point
becomes the Upper Part. Each part plays a
different Tone.

The entire keyboard plays two Tones (assigned to
the Upper and Lower parts) simultaneously.

Using Split Mode ([SPLIT])

Such a division of the keyboard into right- and left-hand
sections is called a “Split,” and the key where the division
takes place is called the “Split Point.”

While in Split mode, a sound played in the right side is called
an “Upper Tone,” and the sound played in the left side is a
“Lower Tone.” The Split-Point key is included in the upper
section. The Split Point has been set at the factory to “C4”.

1.

Press [SPLIT] so the button is lit.

The Tone you selected in Single mode will be the Tone for
the Upper Part.

2.

Use [ ] [ ] to select the Upper or Lower part if you
wish to assign it a different Tone.

3.

To exit Split mode, press [SPLIT] once again so its light
goes out.

In Split mode, the most suitable octave settings for each Tone
are applied automatically.

Regardless of the current settings, you can easily select Single
mode by choosing the “Piano Mode” described below.

Using Single Mode

If the [SPLIT] and [DUAL] are off, the keyboard will be in Single
mode, meaning that the entire keyboard will play a single
Tone.

When you turn on the power, the Prelude will be in this mode.

Using Piano Mode

Regardless of the keyboard mode that is currently selected,
you can use the following operation to call up the “Piano
Mode.”

This will make the appropriate settings for playing piano on
the Prelude; the entire keyboard will play a piano sound.

1.

Press [SPLIT] and [DUAL] (PIANO MODE) simultaneously.

Changing the Split Point

1.

Press and hold [SPLIT] (for approximately two seconds).

The Split Point setting screen will appear.

2.

Turn the VALUE dial to change the Split Point.

3.

When you’re finished making the setting, press [EXIT].

You can also change the Split Point by holding down [SPLIT]
and playing the desired key.

The lowest split point note is “C#2”.The screen doesn’t display
notes lower than the “C#2”.

Using Dual Mode ([DUAL])

“Dual” is the mode in which two Tones are layered, so that
they sound together.

In Dual mode, one Tone is called the “Upper Tone,” and the
other is called the “Lower Tone.”

1.

Press [DUAL] so the button is lit.

The Tone you selected in Single mode will be the Tone for
the Upper Part.

2.

Use [ ] [ ] to select the Upper or Lower part if you
wish to assign it a different Tone.

19

Keyboard Mode Functions

3. To exit Dual mode, press [DUAL] once again so its light

goes out.

Switching to an Arabian

Selecting a Tone ([TONE])

The Prelude contains more than 1000 different Tones. You can
use these Tones in the three keyboard modes (Single, Split,
Dual).

In Split mode or Dual mode, you can use the cursor buttons to
move the cursor to the Tone number of the Upper Tone or
Lower Tone, and select a different Tone for each.

Using the VALUE dial

1. Press [TONE] so the button is lit.

2. Use [ ] [ ] to select the Upper or Lower part.

3. Turn the VALUE dial to step through the Tones one by one.

Alternatively, you can press one of the TONE SELECT
buttons ([PIANO]–[SPECIAL]) to select a Tone by category.

When the cursor in the screen is at the Tone number, you can
also select a Tone by turning [NUMERIC] on, using the TONE
SELECT buttons to enter a Tone number, and then pressing
[ENTER].

Choosing from the Tone list

1. In the Main screen, use the cursor buttons to move the

cursor to the Tone number.

2. Press [ENTER].

3. Use [ ] [ ] or the VALUE dial to select a Tone.

You can press one of the TONE SELECT buttons
([PIANO]–[SPECIAL]) to select a Tone by category.

Scale or Other Temperament

As an alternative to the temperament commonly used in
Western music, you can adjust the pitch of each note to create
temperaments used in other musical cultures or historical
periods (e.g., Oriental temperaments, or temperaments used in
the Baroque era).

You can independently adjust the pitch of each note in the
octave (C, C#, D, Eb, E, F, F#, G, Ab, A, Bb, B).

1. Hold down the [TRANSPOSE] button and press the

[KEY TOUCH] button.

The Key Scale window will open.

2. Use the cursor buttons to select the item that you want to

change, and use the VALUE dial to change the value.

Parameter

Preset
Equal

Preset
Arabic

Lower Sw

Equal Tuning: This tuning divides
the octave into 12 equal parts, and
is the most widely used method of
temperament used in Western mu­sic.

Arabic Scale: In this scale, E and B
are a quarter note lower and C#,
F# and G# are a quarter-note high­er compared to equal tempera­ment. The intervals between G and
B, C and E, F and G#, Bb and C#,
and Eb and F# have a natural third
the interval between a major third
and a minor third. On the GW-8,
you can use Arabian temperament
in the three keys of G, C and F.

Use the Key Scale for the Lower
Part

Explanation Value

Press
[ENTER]

Press
[ENTER]

OFF, ON

4. Press [ENTER] to set the Tone.

If you press [EXIT] without pressing [ENTER], the list will
close without the currently selected Tone being changed.

You can use [ ] [ ] to select a sub-category within the
currently selected category.

You can edit the currently selected Tone and store it in the
Performance. For details, refer to “Editing a Tone” (p. 38) and
“Saving a Performance (WRITE)” (p. 39).

20

Upper Sw

Style Sw Use the Key Scale for the Style Part OFF, ON
C Key Scale C -64–+63
C# Key Scale C# -64–+63
D Key Scale D -64–+63
Eb Key Scale Eb -64–+63
E Key Scale E -64–+63
F Key Scale F -64–+63

Use the Key Scale for the Upper
Part

OFF, ON

Keyboard Mode Functions

Parameter

F# Key Scale F# -64–+63
G Key Scale G -64–+63
G# Key Scale G# -64–+63
A Key Scale A -64–+63
Bb Key Scale Bb -64–+63
B Key Scale B -64–+63

3. When you’ve finished making settings, press [EXIT] once to

close the window.

Explanation Value

Changing the Key Touch ([KEY TOUCH])

This setting determines how the volume changes in response to
the force used to play the keyboard (Velocity Sensitivity).

The velocity—the force with which you play the keyboard—
can affect the volume or timbre of a sound.

1. Press [KEY TOUCH] so the button is lit.

The Key Touch window will open.

2. Use the cursor buttons to select the item that you want to

change, and use the VALUE dial to change the value.

Parameter

Curve

Value Explanation

Select this setting if you do not

LIGHT

MEDIUM

HEAVY

FIXED

want velocity changes to bring
about major volume changes.

Medium velocity sensitivity. The
keyboard responds to velocity
changes, but the maximum vol­ume can be obtained more easily
than with “HEAVY.”

Select this setting for maximum ex­pressiveness. Even small varia­tions of the force with which you
strike a key produce audible
changes. The tradeoff is, howev­er, that you have to strike the keys
forcefully to achieve the maximum
volume.

Select this setting if all notes you
play on the keyboard should have
the same velocity value.

Parameter

Value 1–127

3. When you’ve finished making settings, press [KEY TOUCH]

once again (or [EXIT]) to close the window.

If you want to keep this setting, press [WRITE] to store it into
the Performance (p. 39).

Value Explanation

Specifies the volume value used
when “Curve” is set to “FIXED.”

Shifting the Keyboard Pitch in Octave Steps (OCTAVE Buttons)

You can shift the pitch of the currently selected Tone upward or
downward in steps of an octave, over a maximum of four
octaves upward or downward.

1. Press OCTAVE [ ] or [ ].

The Octave Shift window will open, and will then close a
few moments after you release the button.

2. While holding down OCTAVE [ ] or [ ], use Cursor

[] [] to select the Upper or Lower part whose pitch
you want to shift.

3. Use OCTAVE [ ] [ ] to change the octave.

Transposing Keyboard Sounds and Songs Played Back (TRANSPOSE)

By using the “Transpose function,” you can transpose your
performance without changing the notes you play. You can
also use this function to play back a song in a different key.

1. Press [TRANSPOSE].

The Transpose window will open, and will then close a
few moments after you release the button.

2. While holding down [TRANSPOSE], use [ ] [ ] to

select the item whose setting you want to change.

Parameter Explanation Value

The playback of Songs recorded

Song Trans

with, or imported into, the
Prelude, and of SMF data (29,
p. 31) will be transposed.

OFF, ON

21

Keyboard Mode Functions

Parameter Explanation Value

KBD Trans

C→

Audio data cannot be transposed.

3. Hold down [TRANSPOSE], and use the VALUE dial to

specify the desired value.

[TRANSPOSE] will light if the setting is anything other than C.

By holding down [TRANSPOSE] and using OCTAVE [ ]
[], you can change the Transpose value regardless of
where the cursor is located.

The sound of the keyboard will
be transposed.

The transposed pitch (–5~+6
semitones)

OFF, ON

F#, G,
G#, A,
Bb, B, C,
C#, D, Eb,
E, F

Adding Harmony to the Upper
Tone

(MELODY INTELL)

3. Press [EXIT] to return to the Main screen.

4. To turn the Melody Intelligence off, press [MELODY INTELL]

so its light goes out.

Using the Metronome

It’s convenient to use the metronome when you’re practicing a
new song.

1. Press [MENU].

2. Use [ ] [ ] to select “System” then press [ENTER].

3. Use [ ] [ ] to select “METRONOME” page, and use

[] [ ] to select a parameter.

4. Turn the VALUE dial to select the value.

Parameter Value Explanation

Metronome
Switch

OFF, ON Turns the metronome on/off.

Specifies how the metronome will be
sounded.

While a Music Style is playing (p. 24), the matching harmony
is automatically added to the notes you are playing in the
Upper Part. This function is called “Melody Intelligence.”

Those automatic harmonies are based on the chords you play
in the lower section.

The Melody Intelligence function will be on when you turn
[MELODY INTELL] on (button lit).

The Melody Intelligence function is only available while the
[STYLE] button lights.

Selecting the type of harmony

1. Press [MELODY INTELL] so the button is lit.

When you play something in the Upper Part, harmony is
added.

2. Press and hold [MELODY INTELL], and turn the VALUE dial

to select the Melody Intelligence type.

Parameter

Type

DUET, ORGAN, COMBO, STRINGS, CHOIR,
BLOCK, BIG BAND, COUNTRY,
TRADITIONAL, BROADWAY, GOSPEL, RO­MANCE, LATIN, COUNTRY GUITAR, COUN­TRY BALLAD, WALTZ ORGAN, OCTAVE TYPE
1, OCTAVE TYPE 2

Value

ALWAYS

Metronome
Mode

Metronome
Level

5. When you’ve finished making settings, press [EXIT].

This setting is saved to the System memory.

REC

PLAY

LOW,
MEDIUM,
HIGH

The metronome will sound at
all times if it is turned on.

The metronome will sound
only while you’re recording a
Song (p. 26).

The metronome will sound
when you’re playing a Style
and when you’re playing a
Song (p. 24, p. 29).

Adjusts the volume of the
metronome. The metronome
will be quiet at “Low” and
loud at “High.”

Other Functions

“Performance Functions and Effects” (p. 34)
“Editing a Tone” (p. 38)
“Master Tune” (p. 45)
“System Transpose*” (p. 45)

22

Backing Track Functions

Selecting the Backing Types (Style/Song/USB Memory Player)

The Prelude allows you to use the following three types of
musical backing. To switch the backing type, use BACKING
TYPE [STYLE], [SONG] and [USB MEMORY PLAYER].

[STYLE] (p. 24)

This backing uses the Music Styles. The Prelude Style function
automatically generates a backing with multiple instruments;
simply choose one of a variety of Music Styles (Styles), then
use your left hand to specify a chord. You can also choose
Variations to change the backing in addition to the Intro,
Main, and Ending backing types.

Using only the drum part of a Style as the
backing

If you turn all of BACKING TYPE [STYLE], [SONG] and
[USB MEMORY PLAYER] off, you’ll hear only the drum
part of the currently selected Style. Just as when [STYLE] is
on, you’ll be able to use the STYLE CONTROL buttons and
VARIATION buttons to choose different variations.

[SONG] (p. 26)

You can use the recording function to record your own
performance into the Prelude. Since a 16-track sequencer is
built in, you can use multi-track recording to create a song by
recording a different sound on each track. A song you’ve
created can also be used as the backing for your keyboard
performance.
SMF data can be loaded into the user Song and played back.

[USB MEMORY PLAYER] (p. 30)

This allows you to play back audio files or SMF data that’s
been saved on USB memory. You can use this playback as the
backing for your keyboard performance.

Adjusting the Tempo ([TAP TEMPO])

You can’t adjust the tempo of audio data.

1. Press [TAP TEMPO] three or more times at the desired

interval.

The tempo setting window will appear, and the tempo will
be specified by the interval at which you pressed the
button.

You can also specify the tempo by pressing [TAP TEMPO] to
access the tempo setting window, and then using the cursor
buttons and VALUE dial to specify the tempo. Press [EXIT] to
close the tempo setting window.

Using the metronome

1. Press [TAP TEMPO].

The tempo setting window will appear.

2. Use the cursor buttons to move the cursor to “Metronome,”

and use the VALUE dial to turn it on.

When you turn the metronome on, it will begin sounding,
depending on the metronome mode you selected
(“Always”, “REC” or “Play”).

3. To stop the metronome, turn off “Metronome.”

4. Press [EXIT] to return to the Main screen.

For details on volume and other settings for the metronome,
refer to “Using the Metronome” (p. 22).

Adjusting the Volume Balance between Backing and Keyboard (BALANCE buttons)

Use BALANCE [BACKING] and [KEYBOARD] to adjust the
volume balance between the backing and your keyboard
performance.

If you press BALANCE [BACKING] and [KEYBOARD]
simultaneously, the volume balance will return to its original
value.

If you’ve changed the volume balance, the button whose
volume is higher will be lit.

This setting cannot be stored.

23

Backing Track Functions

Changing the Variations

Style (Playing with an Accompaniment)

Playing Back a Style ([STYLE])

1. Press [STYLE] so the button is lit.

At this time, the keyboard Split Point will be set to “C4” (the
default setting).

If you press and hold [SPLIT] (for approximately two seconds),
the Split Point setting screen will appear. You can turn the
VALUE dial to change the Split Point. When you’re finished,
press [EXIT].

2. Press [START/STOP]; the drums will start playing.

If you’re not using the lower area of the keyboard (the Lower
Part area) to enter chords, only the drum pattern of the Style
will be heard.

You can press the VARIATION buttons to change the type of
ensemble that will play the backing.

The button you press flashes until the new pattern is used (after
which the button lights steadily.)

VARIATION [1] produces the simplest arrangement, and
VARIATION [4] produces the most florid.

For an intro or ending,
simplest.

VARIATION [1]

is the shortest and

Using the Auto Fill-in Function

If you leave [AUTO FILL-IN] on (button lit), a fill-in will play
when you switch between accompaniment Variations. The fill­in that is played between the current and the next Variation
pattern depends on where you come from.

What’s a “Fill-In”?–A short improvisational phrase inserted at
the bar line is called a “Fill In.” The Prelude automatically
plays the appropriate phrase for the selected Style.

Stopping a Style

3. Use your left hand to play a chord (or a single note).

Use your left hand to play the backing chord, and your
right hand to play the melody.

4. If you play a different chord (or single note), the backing

chord will change.

The chord name is displayed in the backing chord area of the
screen.

5. Use the STYLE CONTROL buttons to select a different

pattern for the currently selected Style.

[INTRO]

[MAIN]

[ENDING] A backing pattern suitable for an ending.

If [STYLE] is unlit, pressing [START/STOP] will cause only the
drums to start playing.

A backing pattern suitable for an
introduction.

This is the main accompaniment pattern for
the song.

1. Press [START/STOP] once again to make the backing stop.

If you press [ENDING] instead of [START/STOP], the ending
phrase will play and then the backing will stop.

Adjusting the Part Balance ([PART VIEW])

If [STYLE] is on, or if all of the BACKING TYPE buttons are off,
you can access the PERFORM MIXER screen by pressing [PART
VIEW].

In the PERFORM MIXER screen you can adjust the volume for
each Part of the Style. You can also mute (silence) a specific
Part, or play only a specific Part.

1. With [STYLE] turned on, press [PART VIEW].

The PERFORM MIXER screen will appear.

2. Use [ ] [ ] to select the part whose settings you

want to make, and use [ ] [ ] to select the item that
you want to set.

Display Part

LWR LOWER
UPR UPPER
ADR Accompaniment Drum
ABS Accompaniment Bass
AC1–AC6 Accompaniment 1–6

24

Parameter

Value Explanation

Backing Track Functions

After importing new Styles from a USB memory, you can
also press [USER] to select a User Style.

LEVEL 0–127 Adjusts the volume of the Part.

MUTE

SOLO

3. To exit the PERFORM MIXER screen, press [EXIT] or press

[PART VIEW] so its light is turned off.

OFF,
ON

OFF,
ON

Specifies whether the sound will be
muted (ON) or heard (OFF).

Specifies whether this Part alone will
be heard by itself (ON) or not (OFF).

Sync Start/Stop (SYNC buttons)

If you leave SYNC [START] on (button lit), the accompaniment
will start the moment you play a note at the left side of the Split
Point (i.e., in the Lower Part area).

If you leave SYNC [STOP] on (button lit), the accompaniment
will stop the moment you take your hand off of the Lower Part
area. This is great for songs where you need breaks (i.e. one
or several beats of silence).

To defeat this setting, press the button so it goes out.

3. Turn the VALUE dial to step through the Styles one by one.

When the cursor in the screen is at the Style number, you can
also select a Style by turning [NUMERIC] on, using the TONE
SELECT buttons to enter a Style number, and then pressing
[ENTER].

Choosing from the Style List

1. In the Main screen, use the cursor buttons to move the

cursor to the Style number.

2. Press [ENTER].

3. Use [ ] [ ] to select a Style genre.

To select a User style, select “USER” or press [USER].

4. Use [ ] [ ] or the VALUE dial to select a Style.

5. Press [ENTER] to set the Style.

If you press [EXIT] without pressing [ENTER], the list will
close without the currently selected Style being changed.

Saving the Current Settings in a Performance

See “Saving a Performance (WRITE)” (p. 39).

Selecting a Music Style

The Style memory locations are organized as follows.

Type Explanation

PRST

(Preset)

USER

Selecting a Style

Using the VALUE dial

1. Press [STYLE] so the button is lit.

These are the Styles built into the Prelude.
They cannot be overwritten.

When you create Style data on your computer,
save it to USB memory, and load it into the
Prelude, it will be written into this USER area (p.

48).

Adding User Styles (Importing from USB memory)

Style data saved on USB memory can be imported into the
Prelude. Before you continue, the Style data you created on your
computer using the included “StyleConverter” software must be
saved to USB memory.

For details, refer to “Loading User Data Saved on USB
Memory (Import)” (p. 48).

Deleting a User Style

Here’s how you can delete the specified Style or all Styles from
User Style memory.

1. Press [MENU].

2. Use [ ] [ ] to select “Utility” then press [ENTER].

Use the cursor buttons to select “Delete” then press [ENTER].

3.

4. Use the cursor buttons to select “Style” or “All Styles,” then

press [ENTER].

2. Use the STYLE FAMILY buttons to select a Style by genre.

Immediately after you press one of the STYLE FAMILY
buttons, the screen will show the name of the first Style in
the selected genre.

5. If you selected “Style” in step 4, use the VALUE dial or

[] [] to select the Style that you want to delete, then
press [ENTER].

A confirmation window will appear.

25

Backing Track Functions

6. Press [ENTER] to delete the Style(s).

If you press [EXIT], you’re returned to the previous screen
without deleting the Style(s).

Back up User Style
(Exporting to USB memory)

For details, refer to “Saving User Data to USB Memory
(Backup)” (p. 48).

Using the Recommended Sound Settings for a Style ([ONE TOUCH])

When [STYLE] is on, turning [ONE TOUCH] on (button lit) will
assign the most suitable Tones for the currently selected Style
as the Upper Tone and Lower Tone. This is called the “One
Touch” function.

If [ONE TOUCH] is on when you switch Styles, the keyboard
Tones will also switch to the Tones that are most suitable for
the Style you selected.

To turn off the One Touch function, turn [ONE TOUCH] off
(button unlit).

The Keyboard Mode (p. 19) will change depending on the
selected Style.

Song

Recording a New Song ([SONG REC])

You can use the 16-track recorder of the Prelude to record
your own performances.

You can record your keyboard performance while listening to
an accompaniment, and then listen to the playback of your
recorded performance.

Recorded performances are discarded when another Song is
selected, or when the power is turned off. If you don’t want to
lose the Song, you must save it (p. 28).

On the Prelude, there are two ways to record a Song.

• Refer to “Recording in the Main screen” (p. 26).

• Refer to “Recording a specified Part (SONG TRACK)” (p.

27).

Song settings (e.g., tempo and time signature) are determined
by the settings of the Style that’s saved in the selected
Performance. You’ll probably find it convenient to first select the
Style and Tones that you want to use (p. 36). If you are
performing without using a Style, you can specify the tempo and
time signature of the Song in the SONG TRACK screen (p. 27).

Switching the Style when [ONE TOUCH] is on will not change
the Split Point (p. 19).

The One Touch function is available only when a preset Style
is selected.

You can’t change the Tones that are assigned to each Style by
the One Touch function.

Other Functions Related to Music Style

“Using Split Mode ([SPLIT])” (p. 19)
“Selecting a Tone ([TONE])” (p. 20)
“Adding Harmony to the Upper Tone (MELODY INTELL)” (p. 22)
“Using Preset Performances” (p. 36)
“Chord Mode” (p. 37)
“Backing Hold” (p. 37)
“Bass Inversion” (p. 37)
“Pedal Assign” (p. 45)
“Saving User Data to USB Memory (Backup)” (p. 48)
“Loading User Data Saved on USB Memory (Import)” (p. 48)

Recording in the Main screen

If you want to record the Style playback as well, turn [STYLE]
on. Recording will start/stop simultaneously when you start/stop

the Style.

If you want to record only your keyboard performance without
playing a Style, turn [SONG] on.
If [STYLE] and [SONG] are both turned off, the rhythm pattern
of the Style selected by the STYLE FAMILY buttons will be
recorded together with the keyboard performance.

If you want to record your performance after selecting any
internal song, imported from USB memory, refer to “Re­recording Your Performance” (p. 28). To record a new Song,
use the Song Initializing operation. Refer to “Recording a
specified Part (SONG TRACK)” (p. 27). The following
procedure, allows you to record your performance.

1. Select the Performance that you want to use (p. 36).

2. Press [SONG REC].

[SONG REC] will blink.

3. Press [ ] to start recording.

26

Even without pressing [ ], recording starts when
you play on the keyboard…
(1) if the [SYNC START] button is lit, or…
(2) if you start playing using the Upper or Lower part
while the “Count-In” parameter is set to “WAIT NOTE” (p.

28).

4. Perform.

5. Press [ ] to stop recording.

When you stop recording, the SONG TRACK screen will
appear.

If you want to continue recording, refer to step 7 and
following of “Recording a specified Part (SONG TRACK)”
below, or step 3 and following of “Re-recording Your
Performance” (p. 28).

Press [EXIT] to return to the Main screen.

MFX (p. 40) will apply only to the realtime performance of the
Part (Upper Part or Lower Part) you play by hand. Be aware
that MFX will not apply to the recorded Song data.

Backing Track Functions

MFX (p. 40) will apply only to the realtime performance of the
Part (Upper Part or Lower Part) you play by hand. Be aware
that MFX will not apply to the recorded Song data.

When [SONG] is on, you can press [PART VIEW] repeatedly
to switch from the Main screen to SONG TRACK → PERFORM
MIXER (p. 24) → Main screen.

1. Press [SONG] so the button is lit.

2. Press [PART VIEW] so the button is lit.

The SONG TRACK screen will appear.

Initializing a Song

3. Use the cursor buttons to select the INIT icon then press

[ENTER].

The Song Initialize window will appear.

4. As needed, use the cursor buttons and VALUE dial to

specify the tempo and time signature of the Song.

A performance you record using a Style is recorded to parts
1–16 as follows.

Track Part Name Track Part Name

1 Accomp 1 9 Accomp 6
2 Accomp bass 10 Accomp drums
3 Accomp 2 11 Lower Part
4 Upper Part 12
5 Accomp 3 13
6 14
7 Accomp 4 15 Melody Intelligence
8 Accomp 5 16

You can specify whether the metronome will sound during
recording. See “Using the Metronome” (p. 22).

Recording a specified Part (SONG TRACK)

In the SONG TRACK screen you can specify the Part that you
want to record. A performance using one Tone will be
recorded on each Part.

If you’re recording on a specified Part, recording with a Style
may cause your performance to be recorded together with the
performance generated by the Style, depending on the Part
you’ve specified. If you’re recording on a specified Part, we
recommend that you play without using Styles.

5. Use the cursor buttons to select the INIT icon once again

then press [ENTER].

A confirmation window will appear.

6. Press [ENTER].

If you press [EXIT] twice instead of [ENTER], the Song
Initialize window will close without initializing a Song.

The SONG TRACK screen will appear.

7. Use the cursor buttons to select an item, and turn the

VALUE dial to set the value.

Item Explanation Value

Part Part to record 1–16
Tone The Tone number for each Part
Mute
Solo

Be sure to select the sounds you want to use for your recording
at this stage. You cannot assign different sounds to previously
recorded parts.

8. Press [SONG REC].

9. Press [ ] to start recording.

10. Perform.

Mute On (no sound) or Off (sound) setting for each Part
Solo On (hear only this part) or Off setting for each Part

[SONG REC] will blink.
The Song Rec Standby screen will appear.
If you are recording a new Song, there’s no need to make
settings in this screen. Proceed to the next step.

11. Press [ ] to stop recording.

27

Backing Track Functions

Re-recording Your Performance

In the SONG TRACK screen you can overdub additional
material onto your recorded performance, or re-record the
specified measures of a performance.
You can use the following ways of re-recording.

• Replace–New material is recorded as previously recorded
material is erased.

• Mix–New notes are recorded on top of notes previously
recorded.

• Punch In/Out– Replace or Mix recording is performed
only in the region you specify for re-recording.

When you record a Song using a Style, the Style data is
recorded in the first measure of the Song. When you play back
this Song, playback will begin from measure indication “2.”

1. Press [SONG] so the button is lit.

2. Press [PART VIEW] so the button is lit.

The SONG TRACK screen will appear.
As needed, make Song settings as described in step 7 of

“Recording a specified Part (SONG TRACK).”

3. Press [SONG REC].

[SONG REC] will blink.
The Song Rec Standby screen will appear.

4. Use the cursor buttons to select a parameter, and turn the

VALUE dial to set the value.

Parameter

Punch
Sw

Punch
In

Punch
Out

If you assign the pedal to “PUNCH IN/OUT” in “Pedal
Assign” (p. 45), you’ll be able to specify the record-start and
record-end locations by pressing the pedal. In this case, turn
the above “Punch Sw” to the “OFF” setting.

5. Press [ ] to start recording.

6. Perform.

7. Press [ ] to stop recording.

Value Explanation

If this is turned “ON,” recording
will occur from the “Punch In”
measure to the “Punch Out”
measure that you specify below.

OFF, ON

0001–

0002–

When the song playback reaches
the measure you specified for
“Punch In,” recording will begin
automatically
stop at the “Punch Out” measure.

Measure at which recording
will begin

Measure at which recording
will end

, and recording will

Saving a Song ([WRITE])

Here’s how you can save a Song from the temporary Song
memory to a user Song memory.

Parameter

Rec
Mode

Count
In

Input
Quan­tize

Value Explanation

New material is recorded as

REPLACE

MIX

OFF

1MEAS

2MEAS

WAIT NOTE

OFF, 1/4,
1/8, 1/8T,
1/16, 1/16T,
1/32, 1/32T,
1/64

previously recorded material is
erased.

New notes are recorded on top
of notes previously recorded.

No count-in. Recording starts as
soon as you press [ ].
Recording starts after a 1-bar

count-in.
Recording starts after a 2-bar

count-in.
Recording starts as soon as you

play a note on the keyboard.
(There will be no count-in.)

Quantize corrects the timing of
your notes by shifting them to the
nearest grid mark. This specifies
the number of steps per measure
(i.e., the resolution).

1. Press [WRITE].

2. Use [ ] [ ] to select “Song,” and then press [ENTER].

Input a name for your user Song

3. Use [ ] [ ] to move the cursor, and turn the VALUE

dial to change each character.

Enter a Song name of up to 16 characters.
The following characters are available.
A~Z 0~9 ! # $ % & ‘ ( ) - @ ^ ` { } _

Button Explanation

Selects the type of character. Each time you press

[0]

[1] Deletes the character at the cursor location.
[2] Inserts a “_ ” at the cursor location.

4. Press [ENTER].

this, you will alternately select the first character
of a character set: uppercase (A), or numerals
and symbols (0).

28

A confirmation window will appear.

5. Press [ENTER] to save the Song.

If you press [EXIT], you’re returned to the previous screen
without the Song being saved.

Loading Song Data from USB Memory

Backing Track Functions

When you record a Song using a Style, the Style data is
recorded in the first measure of the Song. When you play back
this Song, playback will begin from measure indication “2.”

When you select a user Song, the temporary Song memory
will be overwritten by the user Song you selected.

Song data saved on USB memory can be loaded into the
Prelude. SMF data also can be stored into the user Song.

For details, refer to “Loading User Data Saved on USB
Memory (Import)” (p. 48).

Deleting a Song

Here’s how you can delete the specified Song or all Songs
from User Song memory.

1. Press [MENU].

2. Use [ ] [ ] to select “Utility” then press [ENTER].

Use the cursor buttons to select “Delete” then press [ENTER].

3.

4. Use the cursor buttons to select “Song” or “All Songs,”

then press [ENTER].

If you selected “Song” in step 4, use the VALUE dial or

5.

to select the Song that you want to delete, then press

[]
[ENTER].

A confirmation window will appear.

[]

You can’t play back SMF data that contains more than 16 parts.

6. Press [ENTER] to delete the Song(s).

If you press [EXIT], you’re returned to the previous screen
without deleting the Song(s).

Selecting and Playing a Song ([SONG])

1. Import on or several songs from a USB memory if you

haven’t already done so.

2. Press [SONG] so the button is lit.

3. Turn the VALUE dial to select a Song.

When the cursor is at the Song number, you can also
select a Song from the Song list. Press [ENTER] to access
the Song list, using [ ] [ ] to select a Song, and then
pressing [ENTER].

You can use [NUMERIC] to select a Song (p. 16).

4. Press [ ] to play the Song.

To stop, press [ ] once again.

29

Backing Track Functions

Moving the playback location of a song

Use the SONG buttons to specify the song playback location.

[]
[]
[]

[]

[]

Returns to the beginning of the song.
Rewinds the song.
Fast-forwards the song.
Moves to the end of the song.
Plays or pauses the song.

Performing along with a song ([MINUS ONE/CENTER CANCEL])

You can press [MINUS ONE/CENTER CANCEL] to mute
(silence) the specified Part. This is called the “Minus One”
function. To specify the Part that will be muted, see below.

Each time you press [MINUS ONE/CENTER CANCEL], the Minus
One function will be turned on (button lit) or off (button unlit).

Specifying the Part that will be muted

1. Press [MENU].

2. Use [ ] [ ] to select “Minus One Setting” then press

[ENTER].

You can also call up this page bt pressing and holding the
[MINUS ONE] button.

3. Use the cursor buttons to select the Part that you want to

mute.

USB Memory Player (SMF/Audio File Player)

Playlist:

specified order, and play them back consecutively on the Prelude.
You can use the “Playlist Editor” software supplied with the Prelude
to create a playlist on your computer.
Songlist: The list of songs specified in the playlist is called a
Songlist.

Playlist is a function that lets you create a list of songs in a

Creating a playlist

Start up “Playlist Editor” and create a playlist.

* For details on creating a playlist, refer to

“PlaylistEditorManualE.pdf,” which is installed together
with “Playlist Editor” (you’ll find it in the “Help” menu).

• You cannot create playlists on Prelude itself.

• You can play back individual songs even without
creating a playlist (see “Playing Back SMF/Audio
Files”). This only works for SMF or audio files in the
root directory of your USB memory.

• Only audio files whose sampling frequency is 44.1kHz
can be played.

• The Prelude can handle up to a maximum of 999 songs
and playlists. (“Playlist Editor” can handle up to 999
playlists.)

4. Turn the VALUE dial to set it to ON or OFF.

5. When you’re finished making settings, press [EXIT].

This setting is system parameter.

Back Up Song Files

Song data you created on the Prelude can be saved on USB
memory.

For details, refer to “Saving User Data to USB Memory
(Backup)” (p. 48).

Other Functions Related to Song

“Using Preset Performances” (p. 36)
“Using the Metronome” (p. 22)
“Saving User Data to USB Memory (Backup)” (p. 48)
“Loading User Data Saved on USB Memory (Import)” (p. 48)

Playing Back SMF/Audio Files

You can play back SMF files or audio files saved in USB memory.

SMF/Audio files that can be played

SMF

0 or 1

*With format 1 SMFs, there are

limitations on the tracks that will be
played.

240 KB maximum (Note that this
will vary slightly based on the SMF
content.)

Audio File

32/40/48/56/64/80/96/
112/128/160/192/224/256/
320 kbps, VBR (Variable Bit Rate)

WAV/
AIFF

MP3

Format

File Size

System Exclusive Packet sizes of 512 bytes or less

Sampling Rate 44.1 kHz
Bit Depth 8/16/24 bits
Format MPEG-1 audio layer 3
Sampling Rate 44.1 kHz

Bit Rates

30