Roland SP-606 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the Roland Sampling Workstation SP-606.

201a

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (p. 2–3; p. 4–6). 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.

202

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.

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002c

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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

• 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.

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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.

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014

• Protect the unit from strong impact.

(Do not drop it!)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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102d

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

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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.

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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.

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106

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

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107d

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

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108b

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

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109b

• Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and unplug the AC adaptor from the outlet (p. 21).

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110b

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

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118c

• Keep any screws you may remove and the included card theft prevention cover in a safe place out of children’s reach, so there is no chance of them being swallowed accidentally.

IMPORTANT NOTES

291a

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

Power Supply

301

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

302

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

307

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

Placement

351

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

352a

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

352b

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

354a

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

355b

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

Maintenance

401a

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

402

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

Repairs and Data

452

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

Additional Precautions

551

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

552

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

553

CompactFlash™

• 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.

555

•A small amount of noise may be heard from the display during normal operation.

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.

562

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

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

563

• Unauthorized duplication, reproduction, hiring, and lending prohibited.

564

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

566b

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

985

• The explanations in this manual include illustrations that depict what should typically be shown by the display. Note, however, that your unit may incorporate a newer, enhanced version of the system (e.g., includes newer sounds), so what you actually see in the display may not always match what appears in the manual.

Before Using Cards

Using DATA Cards

704

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

705

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

707

• This unit’s memory card slot accepts CompactFlash memory cards. Microdrive storage media are not compatible.

708

• Memory cards are constructed using precision components; handle the cards carefully, paying particular note to the following.

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

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

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

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

• Do not allow cards to become wet.

• Do not disassemble or modify the cards.

Handling CD-ROMs

801

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

851

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

852b

• When exchanging audio signals through a digital connection with an external instrument, this unit can perform recording without being subjected to some of the restrictions of the Serial Copy Management System (SCMS). This is because the unit is intended solely for musical production, and is designed not to be subject to restrictions as long as it is used to record works (such as your own compositions) that do not infringe on the copyrights of others. (SCMS is a feature that prohibits second-generation and later copying through a digital connection. It is built into MD recorders and other consumer digital-audio equipment as a copyright-protection feature.)

853

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

204

* Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks

of Microsoft Corporation.

206j

* Windows® is known officially as: “Microsoft®

Windows® operating system.”

207

* Apple and Macintosh are registered trademarks of

Apple Computer, Inc.

209

* MacOS is a trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.

213

* Pentium is a registered trademark of Intel Corpo-

ration.

220

* All product names mentioned in this document are

trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

231

* OMS is a registered trademark of Opcode Systems,

Inc.

232

* FreeMIDI is a trademark of Mark of the Unicorn,

Inc.

233

* VST is a trademark of Steinberg Media Technologies

AG.

234

* CompactFlash and are trademarks of SanDisk

Corporation and licensed by CompactFlash association.

235

* Roland Corporation is an authorized licensee of the

CompactFlash™ and CF logo ( ) trademarks.

236

rights reserved.

Main Features.....................................................................................................10

Conventions Used in This Manual....................................................................................................................... 11

An Overview of the SP-606 ...............................................................................12

How the Various Sections Are Connected.......................................................................................................... 12

Audio Signal Flow Inside the SP-606................................................................................................................... 12

How the SP-606 Is Organized............................................................................................................................... 13

Playing and Performing Sounds ............................................................................................................13

Switching the Mode (Internal/External) ..............................................................................................15

Top, Front, and Rear Panels .............................................................................16

Connecting the SP-606 to Your Equipment.....................................................20

Turning the Power On/Off .................................................................................21

Turning the Power On ........................................................................................................................................... 21

Shutting Down and Turning the Power Off....................................................................................................... 21

Inserting and Removing a Memory Card .........................................................22

Inserting a Memory Card ...................................................................................................................................... 22

Removing a Memory Card after Shutdown ....................................................................................................... 22

Quick Start..........................................................................................................23

Playing Samples from the Pads............................................................................................................................ 23

How to Play a Sample.............................................................................................................................. 23

Switching Pad Banks................................................................................................................................ 23

Adjusting the Loudness of the Sound When You Strike the Pads.................................................... 23

Playing Patterns...................................................................................................................................................... 24

Basic Procedure for Playing a Pattern ................................................................................................... 24

Selecting and Playing a Pattern from the Pattern List ........................................................................24

Changing the BPM (Tempo) During Pattern Playback ......................................................................25

Muting Individual Tracks .......................................................................................................................25

The Number of Samples That Can Be Played Simultaneously.......................................................... 25

Playing an Audio Input Signal ............................................................................................................................. 25

Recording Your Own Samples .............................................................................................................................26

Preparations for Sampling ......................................................................................................................26

Sampling.................................................................................................................................................... 27

Editing a Sample..................................................................................................................................................... 28

Looping a Sample..................................................................................................................................... 28

Changing How the Sample Plays and Stops........................................................................................ 28

Reversing the Playback............................................................................................................................ 29

Chapter 1. Playing the Pads/Making Pad Settings .........................................30

Playing the Pads .....................................................................................................................................................30

Playing a Roll ............................................................................................................................................ 30

Using the Sub Pad Function.................................................................................................................... 30

Using the Hold Function......................................................................................................................... 30

Making Pad Settings ..............................................................................................................................................31

Pad Bank Protect....................................................................................................................................... 31

Basic Procedure for Pad Utility Settings ............................................................................................... 31

Pad Utility Parameters............................................................................................................................. 31

Deleting a Sample..................................................................................................................................... 32

Using the Clipboard to Copy a Sample................................................................................................. 32

Chapter 2. Using Effects ...................................................................................33

Basic Effect Operation............................................................................................................................................ 33

Turning Effects On/Off........................................................................................................................... 33

Using the Control Knobs......................................................................................................................... 33

Choosing the MFX Type from a List ..................................................................................................... 33

Contents

Selecting What the Effect Will Apply to (MFX Assign)...................................................................... 34

Making Mastering Settings ..................................................................................................................... 34

List of Effects ........................................................................................................................................................... 35

Chapter 3. Sampling ..........................................................................................42

Available Sampling Time ...................................................................................................................................... 42

Basic Sampling Procedure..................................................................................................................................... 43

Preparations for Sampling ......................................................................................................................43

Recording the Sample.............................................................................................................................. 44

Resampling.............................................................................................................................................................. 45

Applying an Effect While Resampling.................................................................................................. 45

Resampling (Automatic) .........................................................................................................................46

Resampling (Manual) ..............................................................................................................................47

Using EXT SEQ SAMPLING................................................................................................................................. 48

Sampling the Playback of an External Sequencer................................................................................ 48

Sampling a Performance from the P606................................................................................................ 49

Chapter 4. Editing a Sample .............................................................................50

Basic Procedure for Editing Sample Parameters................................................................................................ 50

Sample Parameters................................................................................................................................................. 50

Specifying the Start/End Points of a Sample (Omitting Unwanted Portions).............................................. 51

Changing a Sample’s BPM (Tempo).................................................................................................................... 52

Dividing a Sample (Chop)..................................................................................................................................... 53

Chapter 5. Creating a Pattern ...........................................................................54

About Pattern Recording....................................................................................................................................... 54

Realtime Recording ................................................................................................................................................ 54

Erasing Unwanted Performance Data................................................................................................... 55

Step Recording ........................................................................................................................................................ 56

Step Recording Note Procedure............................................................................................................. 56

Step Recording Sample Procedure......................................................................................................... 57

Chapter 6. Pattern Editing.................................................................................58

Preloaded Pattern Protect...................................................................................................................................... 58

Changing the Pattern BPM (Tempo) ...................................................................................................................58

Storing Track Mute Settings in a Pattern ............................................................................................................59

Microscope Editing ................................................................................................................................................ 59

Basic Procedure for Microscope Editing............................................................................................... 59

Inserting Performance Data (CREATE) ................................................................................................60

Erasing Performance Data (ERASE) ...................................................................................................... 60

Moving Performance Data (MOVE) ...................................................................................................... 60

Changing the Groove of a Pattern (SWING) ...................................................................................................... 61

Naming a Pattern.................................................................................................................................................... 61

Deleting a Pattern ................................................................................................................................................... 62

Copying a Pattern................................................................................................................................................... 62

Chapter 7. Songs ...............................................................................................63

Recording a Song.................................................................................................................................................... 63

Basic Procedure for Recording a Song ..................................................................................................63

Editing a Song ......................................................................................................................................................... 64

Basic Procedure for Editing a Song........................................................................................................ 64

Changing the Song BPM (Tempo) .........................................................................................................64

Naming a Song ......................................................................................................................................... 64

Deleting a Song......................................................................................................................................... 65

Copying a Song......................................................................................................................................... 65

Playing a Song......................................................................................................................................................... 65

Basic Procedure for Playing a Song ....................................................................................................... 65

Selecting and Playing a Song from the Song List ................................................................................66

Changing the Song Playback BPM (Tempo) ........................................................................................66

Muting Individual Tracks .......................................................................................................................66

Chapter 8. Using a Memory Card .....................................................................67

Formatting (Initializing) a Memory Card ........................................................................................................... 67

Basic Procedure for Card Utility Operations...................................................................................................... 67

Card Utility Operations ......................................................................................................................................... 68

FILE IMPORT............................................................................................................................................ 68

FILE EXPORT............................................................................................................................................ 69

BACKUP SAVE......................................................................................................................................... 70

BACKUP LOAD .......................................................................................................................................70

BACKUP DELETE.................................................................................................................................... 71

Chapter 9. Using the D Beam............................................................................72

Using the D Beam Controller................................................................................................................................ 72

D Beam Controller Settings................................................................................................................................... 72

Basic Procedure for Making D Beam Settings......................................................................................72

D Beam Setting Parameters..................................................................................................................... 73

D BEAM INFO (D Beam Information) Screen .....................................................................................74

Chapter 10. About V-LINK .................................................................................75

What Is V-LINK? ....................................................................................................................................................75

Connection Example .............................................................................................................................................. 75

Basic V-LINK Operation........................................................................................................................................ 75

V-LINK Setup Parameters..................................................................................................................................... 76

Appendix .................................................................................................................................................................76

Controllable V-LINK Functions and MIDI Messages......................................................................... 76

Bank Select/Program Change Function List........................................................................................77

Chapter 11. Using the SP-606 with Other MIDI Equipment ............................78

About MIDI .............................................................................................................................................................78

About MIDI Connectors.......................................................................................................................... 78

About the MIDI Implementation Chart ................................................................................................ 78

MIDI on the SP-606................................................................................................................................................. 78

Changing the MIDI Settings .................................................................................................................................79

Basic Procedure for MIDI Utility Settings ............................................................................................79

MIDI Utility Parameters.......................................................................................................................... 79

Chapter 12. System Settings ............................................................................80

About the System Settings ....................................................................................................................................80

Using the Included CD-ROM to Restore the Factory-Set Condition................................................ 80

Making System Settings ..........................................................................................................................81

Checking System Information ................................................................................................................ 82

Adjusting the Master Level................................................................................................................................... 82

Chapter 13. About USB .....................................................................................83

Installing the USB Driver....................................................................................................................................... 83

Making the USB Connection................................................................................................................................. 83

USB Audio Signal Flow .........................................................................................................................................84

Making USB Audio and MIDI Settings............................................................................................................... 84

Copying Files or Folders via USB ........................................................................................................................ 85

Contents

Chapter 14. About P606.....................................................................................86

Installing P606......................................................................................................................................................... 86

Controlling P606 from the SP-606 ........................................................................................................................ 86

Before You Control P606 from the SP-606 ............................................................................................86

List of Control Functions......................................................................................................................... 86

Troubleshooting.................................................................................................87

Message Lists/Recommended Memory Cards................................................90

MIDI Implementation..........................................................................................92

MIDI Implementation Chart ...............................................................................96

Specifications.....................................................................................................98

Main Features

Quick and easy sampling (p. 26, p. 42)

The SP-606 lets you use any of three sampling modes, whichever is most convenient for your situation.

SAMPLING

no need for settings or editing, sampling is quick and easy.

Sample from a variety of sources (p. 12, p. 84)

You can sample audio sources from the analog or digital inputs, or even via the USB connection, giving you the flexibility to use any type of source.

Use the Chop function to automatically divide phrases (p. 53)

The SP-606 provides a Chop function, which automatically divides an audio phrase into several one-shot samples. The divided samples can be rearranged randomly, combined, or used to create a virtually infinite number of variations.

Velocity-sensitive pads are ideal for creating grooves (p. 23, p. 30)

The sixteen velocity-sensitive pads are a superb way to program grooves with natural-sounding dynamics, and also offer great potential for realtime performance. In addition, pad 16 can operate as a played pad. This gives you much more freedom for performance expression, such as letting you use both hands to play rolls or repeated notes.

makes it easy to capture a loop phrase of the appropriate length from an external MIDI device. With

Sub Pad

, which remembers and plays the same sound as the previously

EXT SEQ

Four-track pattern sequencer (p. 54)

In addition to realtime input, you can use two different step-input methods: the standard “ which you specify each note for input; and “ determines the timing of the next sample. These input methods accommodate a wide range of track-making situations.

Step Rec Smpl

,” in which the length of the sample you input

Step Rec Note

BPM (tempo) sync capability (p. 52)

Any phrase sample can be freely made to follow the tempo of the internal sequencer. Since you can adjust the BPM in real time without affecting the pitch, you can use samples in a whole new variety of ways.

Two independent multi-effects processors (p. 33)

Forty-five types

and also include unique effects such as “ used by either of the two multi-effects modules connected in series, giving you enormous potential for creative sound-making. Intuitive knob-based control makes it easy to create bold and smooth changes in the sound.

of multi-effects range from familiar standards, such as spatial effects and distortion-type effects,

TAPE ECHO

” and “

LO-FI PROCESSOR

.” Any of these effects can be

Mastering effects for adding the finishing touch (p. 33)

Separately from the two multi-effects modules, a mastering effect module is provided to let you add finishing touches at the final stage of your song, bringing it into a professional level of sound quality.

D Beam controller and V-LINK functionality (p. 72, p. 75)

The SP-606 features a D Beam controller, which lets you control a filter or solo synthesizer simply by moving your hand. New realms of expression are made possible by V-LINK functionality, which lets you connect a compatible video device and control it to create video effects that are linked to the expressive elements of a musical performance.

,” in

Use memory cards for easy expansion (p. 67)

A memory card slot is provided on the front panel. By inserting a commercially available 512 MB CompactFlash card, you can perform up to 386 minutes of sampling (LONG mode, mono). There’s no need to load the data into internal memory—data on the card can be accessed directly, even for playing from the pads. Even extremely large samples can be handled quickly and freely.

USB connection to your computer (p. 83)

The SP-606 provides not only USB-MIDI functionality, but also file transfer capability for importing and exporting .WAV and AIFF files. Audio drivers for WDM and ASIO are included, letting the SP-606 function as a versatile USB audio interface (on Windows or Macintosh) with a variety of inputs and outputs.

Dedicated “P606” software for unlimited creation of loops (p. 86)

• The dedicated P606 software application developed by Cakewalk Corporation is included. P606

consists of three different sound generator modules, sophisticated multi-effects, and a sixteen-part

pattern sequencer and mixer—in other words, it’s a virtual groovebox!

• Phrases you create using P606 can be captured into the USB-connected SP-606 easily and quickly via

EXT SEQ SAMPLING

number of measures of the phrase, and makes the appropriate loop settings, meaning that you won’t

have to perform any bothersome processes after sampling.

• Of course the SP-606 also functions as a control surface for P606.

. The SP-606 automatically obtains the BPM (tempo), time signature, and

Main Features

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.

An Overview of the SP-606

How the Various Sections Are Connected

fig.0G-1

Sampler

This records (samples) sounds, such as musical performances or vocals, and plays back these sounds.

Effects

This section applies various effects to the sampled sounds (samples). You can choose from forty-five different types of effect, such as “reverb” which adds reverberation, and “lo-fi processor” which intentionally degrades the audio quality of the sound.

Pads

You can strike these pads to play the samples. You can also vary the loudness of the sound by the strength with which you strike a pad.

Sequencer

Pattern

Song

record

perform automatically

Pads

Sampler

Sample

Effects

manual play

Output

applies various effects

Sequencer

This section lets you record the timing at which you want samples to play, and specify how the samples will be played. You can then play back this data to create automatic performances.

Audio Signal Flow Inside the SP-606

fig.audioFlow

Digital In

Level

Audio In

Rec Level

Knob

MFX Assign

USB Input SW

Input Select

Send Select

Input

Source

MFX Assign

Input Send Select

MFX1

MFX2

* D BEAM

FILTER

USB

Digital

Line

Mic

Input

Sampler

* D BEAM

SYNTH

* You can use either D BEAM SYNTH or D BEAM FILTER (not both).

Mastering

Metronome

Master

Level

Volume

Sampling

Gain

USB Output SRC

Knob

USB

Digital

Line

Phones

Sampling

Output

How the SP-606 Is Organized

An Overview of the SP-606

The SP-606 uses four types of data: “ “

songs

,” which contain performance data. In addition the SP-606 operates in one of two modes: “ in which you use the SP-606’s pads and knobs to control the SP-606 itself; and “ and knobs control the included P606 application running on your computer.

samples

Playing and Performing Sounds

What Are Samples?

A sample is the most basic unit of audio material, consisting of a waveform (wave) that was created by sampling a performance, instrumental sound, or voice, together with settings that specify how this waveform will be played back. You can play the samples that are assigned to the pads, or play them from the internal sequencer or an external sequencer. There are two types of samples, which differ in the way that they are played back: phrase samples and single samples.

Phrase Samples

In general, samples created by sampling a performance are called Phrase samples. To use a sample as a phrase sample on the SP-606, set the sample’s “Play Type” (p. 50) parameter to This causes the sample BPM (tempo) to automatically match the playback BPM or sequencer BPM. This setting is appropriate for phrases that are one or several measures long.

fig.0G-2

Performance

Sampling

The sample BPM can be varied within the range from 0.5 through 1.3. If the sequencer BPM would

cause the sample BPM to exceed this allowable range, the sample BPM will be doubled or halved so

that it stays within this range.

Single Samples

On the SP-606, short samples (such as individual notes) are called Single samples. To use a sample as a single sample, set its “Play Type” (p. 50) parameter to length. This setting is suitable for sounds that you use as single notes, such as drum hits or sound effects.

Phrase Sample

” and “

SINGLE

pad banks

,” which contain sounds; and “

external mode

. This causes the sample to always play at its original

patterns

internal mode

,” in which the pads

” and

PHRASE

”

Drum Sound

Sampling

Single Sample

An Overview of the SP-606

What Are Pad Banks?

A group of sixteen samples assigned to the pads of the top panel are collectively called a Pad Bank. The SP-606 has thirty-two pad banks, letting you use a total of 512 samples.

About Pad Banks 1–8

When you sample into these banks, the samples will be saved in internal memory.

About Pad Banks 9–32

When you sample into these banks, the samples will be saved on a memory card.

What Are Patterns?

A pattern consists of 1–32 measures of performance (sequence) data that specifies the timing at which samples will be played. Each pattern contain four “parts” (tracks), in which separate performances can be recorded. You can select and play different patterns in succession, or create a song by specifying the order in which you want patterns to play.

fig.0G-4

Pattern

Drum Part

Refer to “Switching Pad Banks” (p. 23).

When the SP-606 is shipped from the factory, samples are already loaded into pad banks 1–4. Since

these samples are protected so that they will not be erased accidentally, you will be unable to edit or

delete them. If you want to disable protection for these samples, disable the pad bank protect setting

(p. 31).

(Hi-hat) (Snare Drum) (Bass Drum)

Bass Part

Inst 1 Part

Inst 2 Part

A pattern can be up to 32 measures long.

The pattern simply specifies the timing at which the samples play; it does not contain the samples

themselves. This means that if you change the sample, the playback result will also change.

What Is a Song?

On the SP-606, an arrangement of multiple patterns in a desired playback order is called a Song.

fig.0G-5

Song

Pattern Pattern Pattern Pattern Pattern Pattern

Melody

Intro MelodyBMelodyAMelody

The song simply specifies the order in which patterns will play; it does not contain the sequence

data of the patterns themselves. This means that if you edit a pattern, the song playback will be

affected.

Ending

Switching the Mode (Internal/External)

Internal

In this mode you can use the SP-606’s pads and knobs to control the SP-606 itself. To select Internal mode, press

External

In this mode you can use the SP-606’s pads and knobs to control the P606 application (an included sequencer for Windows) running on your USB-connected computer. To select External mode, press

If you want to control both the SP-606 itself and the P606 application, press [INT] and [EXT] so both

buttons are lighted.

What Is the Play Screen?

The “play screen” refers to the screen that appears when you perform the following steps.

1. Power up the SP-606 as described in “Turning the Power On/Off” (p. 21).

2. Press [INT] so it’s lit.

At this time, [EXT] will be unlit.

3. Press [SONG] or [PTN].

If you press [SONG], the word “Song” will appear vertically at the left edge of the screen. If you press [PTN], the word “Pattern” will appear vertically at the left edge of the screen.

[INT]

[EXT]

so it’s lit.

An Overview of the SP-606

Canceling the Previous Operation (Undo/Redo)

Before Recording/Editing

Recording/Editing

After Recording/Editing

REDO

UNDO

fig.0G-6

You can cancel the editing or recording operation that you performed most recently on a song or pattern.

Procedure

Hold down [FUNC] and press [ ] (Top).

* You can execute Undo for Pattern (microscope edit, realtime

recording, step recording) and Song (edit, recording) operations.

* The Redo function cancels the Undo, returning you to the state before

executing Undo. After you’ve executed Undo, you can once again

hold down [FUNC] and press [ ] (Top) to execute Redo.

Top, Front, and Rear Panels

Top Panel

fig.top-panel

D BEAM controller

By placing your hand above this you can apply various

effects to a pattern or sample. (p. 72)

TRIGGER button

This lets you use the D Beam controller to play pads as an

alternative to striking the pads. (p. 72)

SYNTH button

This lets you use the D Beam controller to control the

pitch of a monophonic synthesizer. (p. 72)

FILTER button

This lets you use the D Beam controller to control a filter

that has an extremely steep slope. (p. 72)

V-LINK button

This turns V-LINK on/off. (p. 75)

Top, Front, and Rear Panels

AUDIO IN REC LEVEL knob

This adjusts the volume of the audio signal that is input

via the rear panel INPUT (p. 19).

Adjust this knob so that the level indicator does not light.

(p. 26, p. 44)

VOLUME knob

This adjusts the volume of the audio signal that is output

from the rear panel OUTPUT and PHONES jacks (p. 19).

MASTERING button

This switches the mastering effect (used to add final

touches) on/off. (p. 33)

Screen

Various information is shown here according to the

operations you perform.

MENU button

You can press [MENU] to get the Top Menu screen.

F1, F2, F3 buttons

Various functions are assigned to these buttons

depending on the currently shown screen.

BPM button

This adjusts the BPM (tempo). (p. 25, p. 58, p. 64, p. 66)

MFX1 button

This switches MFX1 on/off. (p. 33)

MFX2 button

This switches MFX2 on/off. (p. 33)

KNOB ASSIGN button

This selects the MFX module controlled by the CTRL 1–3

knobs. (p. 33)

CTRL 1, CTRL 2, CTRL 3 knobs

These control effect parameters. (p. 33)

SONG button

This accesses the Song Play screen (p. 15).

PTN button

This accesses the Pattern Play screen (p. 15).

TRACK 1–4 buttons

These select the tracks for recording/playback. (p. 25,

p. 54, p. 59)

[] (Top)

Returns to the beginning of the song or pattern.

EXIT/ENTER buttons

These are used as Cancel (EXIT) or OK (ENTER) buttons

in various screens.

[][][][]

These move the cursor left/right/up/down in various

screens.

VALUE dial

Use this to adjust the value of a setting.

* You can hold down [FUNC] and turn the VALUE dial to make

larger changes in a value other than BPM (tempo).

DEC/INC buttons

These are used to change the value of a parameter

(setting) in steps of one.

* You can hold down [FUNC] and use [DEC][INC] to make

larger changes in a value other than BPM (tempo).

[] (Rewind)

Moves backward by one measure or one step.

[] (Fast-forward)

Moves forward by one measure or one step.

[] (Stop)

Stops playback.

[] (Play)

Starts playback.

[] (Record)

Records a pattern or song. (p. 54, p. 63)

Top, Front, and Rear Panels

INT/EXT buttons

These buttons switch between Internal and External

modes. Normally you will leave Internal mode selected.

(p. 15)

FUNC button

You can hold down [FUNC] and press another button or

pad to access an alternate function for that button or pad.

CLIP BOARD button

This button lets you use the clip board to copy a sample.

(p. 32)

SAMPLING button

Use this button to perform sampling. (p. 26, p. 42)

Front Panel

fig.front-panel

PAD BANK button

Use this button to switch pad banks. (p. 23)

ROLL button

Use this button to play a roll. (p. 30)

HOLD pad

This pad activates the Hold function. (p. 30)

INPUT SOURCE pad

This pad sounds the audio input signal. (p. 25)

Pads [1]–[16]

You can play samples by striking these pads. (p. 23)

Memory card slot

You can insert a memory card here. (p. 22)

* You can use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws

immediately under each end of the card slot (i.e., on the SP-

606’s bottom panel edge closest to yourself), and use these same

two screws to attach the included card theft prevention cover.

This will prevent the memory card from being removed and

stolen.

* When turning the unit upside-down, get a bunch of

newspapers or magazines, and place them under the four

corners or at both ends to prevent damage to the buttons and

controls. Also, you should try to orient the unit so no buttons

or controls get damaged.

* When turning the unit upside-down, handle with care to avoid

dropping it, or allowing it to fall or tip over.

Rear Panel

fig.rear-panel

123 4 5 8 121169107

Top, Front, and Rear Panels

1. Cord hook

Use this to fasten the AC adaptor cable (p. 20)

2. Ground terminal

Depending on the circumstances of a particular setup,

you may experience a discomforting sensation, or

perceive that the surface feels gritty to the touch when

you touch this device, microphones connected to it, or the

metal portions of other objects. This is due to an

infinitesimal electrical charge, which is absolutely

harmless. However, if you are concerned about this,

connect the ground terminal (see figure) with an external

ground. When the unit is grounded, a slight hum may

occur, depending on the particulars of your installation.

If you are unsure of the connection method, contact the

nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland

distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.

Unsuitable places for connection

• Water pipes (may result in shock or electrocution)

• Gas pipes (may result in fire or explosion)

• Telephone-line ground or lightning rod (may be

dangerous in the event of lightning)

3. POWER switch

This turns the power on/off. (p. 21)

6. MIDI connectors (OUT/IN)

Use these to connect MIDI equipment. (p. 78)

7. DIGITAL jacks (OUT/IN)

Connect your audio source to the IN jack if you want to

sample via the digital input. Connect to the OUT jack if

you want to use digital output. (p. 20)

8. FOOT SWITCH jack

You can connect a foot switch (DP-2, BOSS FS-5U; sold

separately) to this jack. (p. 20)

9. INPUT jacks

Connect your audio source or microphone to this jack if

you want to sample via the analog input. If you’re

inputting a monaural source, connect it to the L (MONO)

jack. (p. 20)

10. OUTPUT jacks

These are analog output jacks. If you’re outputting in

monaural, use the L (MONO) jack. (p. 20)

11. PHONES jack

Connect a set of stereo headphones to this jack. Even if

headphones are connected, sound will still be output

from the DIGITAL OUT and OUTPUT jacks. (p. 20)

4. AC adaptor jack

Connect the included AC adaptor here. (p. 20)

5. USB connector

Use a USB cable to connect the SP-606 to your computer.

(p. 83)

12. Security slot ( )

http://www.kensington.com/

Connecting the SP-606 to Your Equipment

For details on USB connections, refer to “Chapter 13. About USB” (p. 83).

fig.connects

Refer to the diagram, and make connections according to the following procedure.

Before you make any connections, switch off the power on all your equipment.

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.

Connect the included AC adaptor to the AC adaptor jack.

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.

CD/MD Player

Connect your audio system or amp(s) to the OUTPUT or DIGITAL OUT jacks. If you’re using headphones, connect them to the PHONES jack.

If you intend to sample (p. 26, p. 42), connect your audio source device (e.g., CD player or mic) to the

DIGITAL IN

Plug the AC adaptor into an AC outlet.

jacks.

When connection cables with resistors are used, the volume level of equipment connected to the inputs (INPUT, DIGITAL IN) may be low. If this happens, use connection cables that do not contain resistors, such as those from the Roland PCS series.

Howling could be produced depending on the location of microphones relative to speakers. This can be remedied by:

1. Changing the orientation of the microphone(s).

2. Relocating microphone(s) at a greater distance from speakers.

3. Lowering volume levels.

INPUT

Turning the Power On/Off

Turning the Power On

Once the connections have been completed (p. 20), 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.

Turn the VOLUME knob all the way to the left to set the volume to the minimum position.

Turn the volume of the connected amp or audio system to the minimum position.

Press [POWER] to power up the SP-606.

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 up the connected amp or audio system.

While striking a pad to produce sound, adjust the volume by gradually raising the VOLUME knob.

Also raise the volume level of the connected amp or audio system to the appropriate level.

Shutting Down and Turning the Power Off

Before powering off the SP-606, you must first perform the shutdown operation. If you simply turn

off the power without shutting down, the data in internal memory or the memory card may be

damaged.

Go to the Play screen (p. 15).

Hold down [FUNC] and press [EXIT] (SHUTDOWN) to get the SHUTDOWN screen.

Press [F3] to shut down.

When you have returned to the Play screen, it is safe to switch off the power. If you decide not to shut down, press [F2] (CANCEL).

Lower the volume on the SP-606 and all your external equipment so they’re at the lowest possible level.

Switch off all your external equipment.

Press [POWER] to switch off the SP-606’s power.

Inserting and Removing a Memory Card

Inserting a Memory Card

Insert the memory card into the card slot located on the front panel.

You can insert a memory card whether the SP-606 is turned on or off.

Carefully insert the Memory card all the way in-until it is firmly in place.

When using a memory card for the first time, you must format it on the SP-606. (p. 67)

Memory cards formatted by another device will not be recognized by the SP-606.

Removing a Memory Card after Shutdown

If the SP-606 is powered up, you must shut it down before removing the memory card. If you

remove the card without shutting down, you risk damaging the internal memory or the contents of

the memory card.

Go to the Play screen (p. 15).

Hold down [FUNC] and press [EXIT] (SHUTDOWN) to get the SHUTDOWN screen.

Press [F3] to shut down.

When you have returned to the Play screen, it is safe to remove the memory card. If you decide not to shut down, press [F2] (CANCEL).

After shutdown, a memory card will not be detected even if it is present in the card slot. It will be

detected when you remove the memory card from the slot and re-insert it.

Press the eject button located beside the front panel card slot. A portion of the card will protrude, allowing you to grasp the card and pull it out.

Quick Start

Playing Samples from the Pads

How to Play a Sample

Strike a pad, and you’ll hear the sample of that pad.

Switching Pad Banks

Go to the Play screen (p. 15).

Press [PAD BANK].

The list of pad banks will appear.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [ ][ ][DEC][INC] to move the cursor.

You can select pad banks 1–16 directly by pressing pads [1]–[16]. Pressing [F1] (INT) will move the cursor to the internal memory banks, and pressing [F2] (CARD) will move to the memory card banks.

Pad banks 9–32 are for the memory card. They cannot be selected unless a memory card is inserted.

Press [F3] (SELECT) or [ENTER].

The selected pad bank will appear in the display.

When the SP-606 is shipped from the factory, pad banks 1–4 contain preloaded data.

Adjusting the Loudness of the Sound When You Strike the Pads

Here’s how to adjust the loudness of the sounds produced when you strike the pads. This setting is common to all sixteen pads.

Go to the Play screen (p. 15).

Hold down [FUNC] and press pad [9] (PAD UTIL) to get the PAD UTILITY screen.

Use [ ][ ] to move the cursor to the “Pad Velocity” line.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to select REAL or 1–127. REAL

: The force with which you strike the pad will determine the

loudness.

1–127

: The loudness will be fixed at the level you specify (127 steps).

If you specified REAL in step 4, press [ ] to move the cursor to the “Pad Sens” line.

If you specified a value of 1–127 in step 4, proceed to step 7.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to select either LIGHT, MEDIUM, or HEAVY. LIGHT

: Sound will be produced even if you strike a pad lightly.

MEDIUM HEAVY

Press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

: This is the standard sensitivity setting.

: You will need to strike a pad strongly in order to produce sound.

Quick Start

Playing Patterns

Basic Procedure for Playing a Pattern

Go to the Pattern Play screen (p. 15).

The upper line of the screen shows the BPM (tempo) and number of measures in the pattern. The lower line of the screen shows the number of the currently selected pad bank.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to select a pattern.

When the SP-606 is shipped from the factory, patterns 1–40

contain preloaded pattern data.

Press [ ] (Play) to begin playback.

If you turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to select another pattern while a pattern is playing, the name of that pattern will appear in the lower line, and will be reserved as the next-played pattern. When the currently playing pattern has played to the end, the reserved pattern will automatically begin playing.

If the pattern number indication shown in the lower line is not highlighted, the SP-606 is already

preparing to switch to the next pattern, so you will not be able to reserve the next pattern.

You can press [ ][ ] while a pattern is playing to force the currently playing pattern to switch.

Press [ ] (Stop) to stop playback.

If you press [ ] (Stop) once again or press [ ] (Top), you will return to the beginning of the pattern.

Pressing [ ] (Backward) moves you one measure back, while pressing [ ] (Forward) moves you one measure forward.

Selecting and Playing a Pattern from the Pattern List

Go to the Pattern Play screen (p. 15).

Press [F1] (LIST) to get the PATTERN LIST screen.

If the preloaded patterns are protected (p. 58), a lock symbol

is shown at the left of the corresponding pattern in the

screen.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to select a pattern, and press [F3] (SELECT) or [ENTER] to confirm your choice.

Patterns 1–16 can be selected directly by pressing pads [1]–[16]. If you decide you don’t want to select a pattern, you can press [EXIT] to cancel this procedure.

Press [ ] (Play) to start playback.

Press [ ] (Stop) to stop playback.

Changing the BPM (Tempo) During Pattern Playback

Go to the Pattern Play screen (p. 15).

Press [BPM] to get the BPM screen.

The current BPM is displayed.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to adjust the BPM (40.0–

200.0).

The BPM can be adjusted in steps of one. You can make adjustments even while the pattern is playing.

To adjust the BPM in 0.1 units, hold down [FUNC] and turn the VALUE dial.

You can press the [F3] (TAP) button three times or more in succession to set the BPM to the interval

at which you pressed the button (Tap Tempo function).

You cannot change the BPM if “Sync Mode” (p. 79) is set to SLAVE.

Press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Muting Individual Tracks

You can mute (silence) specific tracks while a pattern plays.

Go to the Pattern Play screen (p. 15).

Quick Start

Press [ ] (Play) to play the pattern.

Press TRACK [1]–[4].

Button lit: playing Button blinking: muted

If a track button is unlit, that track contains no data.

The mute status of each track can be stored with the pattern. (p. 59)

The Number of Samples That Can Be Played Simultaneously

Including the playback of the song/pattern and the sounds you play from the pads, a maximum of eight notes can be played simultaneously. Each stereo sample uses two notes. If you attempt to play more than eight notes simultaneously, the samples you most recently played from the pads will take priority, and the sample played by a previously pressed pad will stop sounding. Samples whose “Play Type” (p. 50) is set to PHRASE will take priority over SINGLE samples.

Playing an Audio Input Signal

The SP-606’s [INPUT SOURCE] pad lets you start/stop the sound of an external audio input source in the same way as when controlling a sample. You can also apply effects to this sound. In the explanation below, we will use a connected CD player as an example.

Make sure that the SP-606 and your CD player are powered off.

On the top panel, turn the AUDIO IN REC LEVEL knob to the minimum position (far left).

Connect your CD player to the rear panel INPUT L/R or DIGITAL IN jack (p. 20).

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.

Power up your CD player.

Quick Start

Power up the SP-606 using the procedure described in “Turning the Power On” (p. 21).

Wait until the Pattern Play screen (p. 15) appears in the display.

Hold down [FUNC] and press the [INPUT SOURCE] pad to get the INPUT SETTING screen.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to set “Input Select” as follows.

If you made connections to If you made connections to

Play back your CD player.

When you press the [INPUT SOURCE] pad so it’s lighted, the external input sound will be heard.

When you press the [INPUT SOURCE] pad once again and switch off its illumination, the sound will stop.

10.

Use the AUDIO IN REC LEVEL knob to adjust the volume.

Adjust the AUDIO IN REC LEVEL knob until the level is as high as you can get it without causing the knob’s level indicator to light.

If you made connections to DIGITAL IN in step 3, the AUDIO IN REC LEVEL knob has no effect.

INPUT L/R DIGITAL IN

in step 3:

LINE

DIGITAL

Recording Your Own Samples

The SP-606 lets you sample up to approximately eleven minutes of sound (monaural).

third party without permission for any purpose other than personal enjoyment. Do not use this

device to make illegal recordings.

Roland Corporation accepts no responsibility for any damages or penalties you may be required to

pay as a result of making illegal recordings using Roland-manufactured equipment.

As an example, here’s how to sample sound from a CD player.

Preparations for Sampling

Connect your CD player to the SP-606

Make sure that the SP-606 and your CD player are powered off.

On the top panel, turn the AUDIO IN REC LEVEL knob to the minimum (far left).

Connect your CD player to the rear panel INPUT L/R or DIGITAL IN jack (p. 20).

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.

Power up your CD player.

Power up the SP-606 using the procedure described in “Turning the Power On” (p. 21).

Wait until the Pattern Play screen (p. 15) appears in the display.

Specify the input jack, and adjust the input level

Hold down [FUNC] and press [INPUT SOURCE] to get the INPUT SETTING screen.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to set “Input Select” as follows.

If you made connections to If you made connections to

INPUT L/R DIGITAL IN

in step 3:

LINE

DIGITAL

Play back your CD player and adjust the input level.

If you selected INPUT in step 3, adjust the AUDIO IN REC LEVEL knob until the level is as high as you can get it without causing the knob’s level indicator to light.

Sampling

Press [SAMPLING] to get the SAMPLING MENU screen.

Press [F1] (SAMPL).

[SAMPLING] will blink, and the appear.

The display will indicate “Select Pad”; turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to switch the pad bank. For this example, select pad bank 8. Then press the desired pad to select it as the sampling destination. For this example, press pad [1].

At this time, pads that do not contain samples will blink. The pad number is displayed at the left of the upper line in the screen (PAD 8-1).

Quick Start

If you made connections to DIGITAL IN, the AUDIO IN REC LEVEL knob has no effect.

SAMPLING STANDBY

If the selected pad already contains a sample, you’ll be presented with this message: “A Sample

Already Exists! Overwrite?” If you are sure you want to overwrite the existing sample, press [F3]

(EXEC). To cancel, press [F2] (CANCEL).

If the Pad Bank Protect setting is turned on for a bank, a lock symbol is displayed at the right of the

pad bank number shown in the upper left of the screen. If you press a pad of such a bank, the screen

will indicate “Protected Pad Bank!”, and the pad cannot be selected. If you want to sample into a

pad of this bank, you will have to turn off the Protect setting (p. 31).

screen will

Use [ ][ ] to move the cursor to the “Auto Trig” line.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to select the OFF setting.

If you decide to cancel the sampling operation at this point, press [EXIT].

Press the [INPUT SOURCE] pad to hear the audio input signal.

At the appropriate moment in the music, press [SAMPLING] or [F3] (START) to start sampling.

[SAMPLING] will change from blinking to lit.

At the moment you want to stop sampling, press [SAMPLING] or [F3] (STOP).

If you exceed the available sampling time, sampling will stop automatically.

Press the pad to play back the sampled sound.

You can use the BPM Sync function (p. 52) to change the BPM (tempo) of the sampled sound.

If the beginning or end of the sample contains unwanted sound or silence, you can make settings so

that only the desired portion of the sound is actually played. For details, refer to “Specifying the

Start/End Points for Playback (Skipping Unwanted Portions)” (p. 51).

If you are not satisfied with the sampled sound, refer to “Deleting a Sample” (p. 32).

Quick Start

Editing a Sample

Looping a Sample

Causing a sample to play repeatedly from its beginning to its end is called “looping.” The SP-606 makes it easy for you create phrases by playing phrases repeatedly in this way.

Go to the Play screen (p. 15).

Hold down [FUNC] and press pad [13] (SAMPLE PARAM) to get the SAMPLE EDIT screen.

Press the pad whose sample you want to edit.

If you want to edit a sample that’s in a different pad bank, switch the pad bank (p. 23) and then choose a sample to edit.

If the pad bank is protected, a lock symbol is displayed in the upper right of the screen. In this case

you will not be able to edit the sample unless you turn off the Protect setting (p. 31).

Use [ ][ ] to move the cursor to the “Loop Sw” line.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to select OFF or ON. OFF

: not looped

: looped

If you want to make settings for other samples as well, repeat steps 3–5.

Press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Changing How the Sample Plays and Stops

Go to the Play screen (p. 15).

Hold down [FUNC] and press pad [13] (SAMPLE PARAM) to get the SAMPLE EDIT screen.

Press the pad whose sample you want to edit.

If you want to edit a sample that’s in a different pad bank, switch the pad bank (p. 23) and then choose a sample to edit.

If the pad bank is protected, a lock symbol is displayed in the upper right of the screen. In this case

you will not be able to edit the sample unless you turn off the Protect setting (p. 31).

Use [ ][ ] to move the cursor to the “Trig Mode” line.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to select either SHOT, ALTERNATE, or GATE. SHOT

: The sample will begin playing when you press the pad, and will

stop automatically when the end of the sample is reached.

If you select the SHOT setting, the Loop setting (p. 28)

is ignored; the sample will play only once. Note that if you select SHOT, you will not be able

to interrupt the sound, so use this setting with caution if the sample is extremely long.

ALTERNATE

GATE

: The sample will begin playing when you press the pad, and will continue playing even after you

release the pad. It will stop when you press the pad once again.

: The sample will begin playing when you press the pad, and will stop playing when you release the pad.

If you want to make settings for other samples as well, repeat steps 3–5.

Press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Reversing the Playback

The Reverse setting makes a sample play in the opposite direction, as if a tape were being played backward.

Go to the Play screen (p. 15).

Hold down [FUNC] and press pad [13] (SAMPLE PARAM) to get the SAMPLE EDIT screen.

Press the pad whose sample you want to edit.

If you want to edit a sample that’s in a different pad bank, switch the pad bank (p. 23) and then choose a sample to edit.

If the pad bank is protected, a lock symbol is displayed in the upper right of the screen. In this case

you will not be able to edit the sample unless you turn off the Protect setting (p. 31).

Use [ ][ ] to move the cursor to the “Reverse Sw” line.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to select OFF or ON. OFF

: not reversed

: reversed

If you want to make settings for other samples as well, repeat steps 3–5.

Press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.

Quick Start

Chapter 1. Playing the Pads/Making Pad Settings

Playing the Pads

For details on basic ways to play the pads, refer to “Playing Samples from the Pads” in the Quick

Start (p. 23).

Playing a Roll

Here’s how you can make a sample play repeatedly (i.e., “roll”) as long as you hold down a pad.

Go to the Play screen (p. 15).

Press [ROLL] so the button is lit; this enables the Roll function.

Hold down a pad, and the roll will begin.

You can play a roll by pressing any pad [1]–[16], or by pressing multiple pads simultaneously.

You can specify the resolution of the roll. Refer to “Basic Procedure for Pad Utility Settings” (p. 31) and “Pad Utility Parameters” (p. 31).

When you release the pad, the roll will stop.

To turn off the Roll function, press [ROLL] so its illumination is turned off.

Using the Sub Pad Function

You can use the Sub Pad to play the sample of the pad you struck most recently. This is a convenient way to play a drum roll manually.

Go to the Play screen (p. 15).

Hold down [FUNC] and press pad [9] (PAD UTIL) to get the PAD UTILITY screen.

Press [ ] to move the cursor to the “Sub Pad Sw” line.

Turn the VALUE dial or use [DEC][INC] to turn the setting ON.

Pad [16] will light green, and will now operate as the Sub Pad.

This does not erase the sample of pad [16]; its original sample will reappear when you turn off the Sub Pad setting.

When you press pad [16], the sample of the most recently struck pad will sound.

If you turn the “Sub Pad Sw” OFF, pad [16] will go dark, and the Sub Pad function will be disabled.

Using the Hold Function

The Hold function makes a sample continue sounding even after you take your finger off the pad. This is convenient when you want a phrase loop sample to continue playing. However, you cannot exceed the maximum polyphony of eight notes even when using the Hold function.

Hold applies only to samples for which GATE playback (p. 50) is specified. Hold does not apply to

samples for which ALTERNATE playback or SHOT playback (p. 50) is specified, nor to the Roll

function (p. 30).

Go to the Play screen (p. 15).

Press a pad to play its sample.

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