Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the Roland VGA-3 V-Guitar Amplifier.
Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “
(page 2) , “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (page 3–4) , and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (page 5–6) .
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.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
”
Main Features
The VGA-3 guitar amp provides 50-watt output from a high-volume, 30-cm speaker housed in a
portable cabinet. The unit features an advanced combination of core functions plus COSM technology
for realistic V-Guitar amp sounds.
COSM AMPLIFIER
The VGA-3’s amp modeling function reproduces the sounds of many popular guitar amps.
This amp features eleven amp types including modeled amp sounds, from the delicate clean
sound of the combo type to the large stack’s massive distortion sound, and also an original flat
amp perfect for use with acoustic guitar and synthesizer sound.
EFFECT
Including a newly developed spring reverb, the VGA-3 incorporates ten DSP effect types
perfectly suited for use with guitar sounds.
COSM GUITAR
In addition to the regular guitar input, this amp also features GK input for guitar modeling.
Guitar modeling provides eleven realistic sound simulations, from electric and acoustic guitar
sounds to special sounds available only with GK. Achieve a whole range of sound variations,
without having to switch your guitar.
MEMORY
The VGA-3’s memory lets you store and instantly call up ten amp and effect settings internally.
Additionally, with the use of a foot controller (optional), you can store and call up forty settings.
TUNER
A chromatic tuner is included.
EXPANDABILITY
Not only can you connect a foot switch, the VGA-3 also provides an input for an expression
pedal, which can be used as a volume pedal or wah pedal.
Also included are an EXT IN jack for connecting a CD or rhythm machine, and a RECORDING
OUT/PHONES jack, which comes in handy for recording sessions or when practicing at home.
IMPORTANT SAFTY INSTRUCTIONS
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to
constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the product.
INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING - When using electric products, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install in
accordance with the manufacturers instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators,
heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or
grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with
one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two
blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the
third prong are provided for your safety. When the provided
plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched
particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the
point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
12. Never use with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket,
or table except as specified by the
manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus.
When a cart is used, use caution when
moving the cart/apparatus combination to
avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when
unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing
is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any
way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid
has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus,
the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does
not operate normally, or has been dropped.
For the U.K.
WARNING:
IMPORTANT:
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying
the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured GREEN-AND-YELLOW must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked by the
letter E or by the safety earth symbol or coloured GREEN or GREEN-AND-YELLOW.
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION.
THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED
THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.
GREEN-AND-YELLOW: EARTH, BLUE: NEUTRAL, BROWN: LIVE
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.
• 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” sheet.
• 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.
008a
• The unit should be connected to a power supply
only of the type described in the operating instructions, or as marked on the unit.
• 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!
• 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.
• Immediately turn the power off, remove the
power cord from the outlet, and request servicing
by your retailer, the nearest Roland Service
Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as
listed on the “Information” sheet when:
• 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.
• Do not force the unit’s power-supply cord to share
an outlet with an unreasonable number of other
devices. Be especially careful when using
extension cords—the total power used by all
devices you have connected to the extension
cord’s outlet must never exceed the power rating
(watts/amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive
loads can cause the insulation on the cord to heat
up and eventually melt through.
• Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult
with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service
Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as
listed on the “Information” sheet.
• Please stow AC cable inside cabinet as shown in Fig. A to
protect AC cable, when you carry this model or you do
not use.
When doing so, be careful not to touch the speaker unit.
101a
• The unit should be located so that its location or
position does not interfere with its proper ventilation.
In addition to the items listed under “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” and “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” on pages 2
and 3–4, please read and observe the following:
This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. The protection circuit helps ensure safety by operating when excessive input
continues for a long time while the device is at a location with a high ambient temperature. Sound drop-out may occur when
the protection circuit is actuated during use. Please read through the documentation carefully to ensure correct use.
Power Supply
301
• Do not use this unit on the same power circuit with any device that will generate line noise (such as an electric motor or
variable lighting system).
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.
354b
• 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. Also, do not allow lighting devices that normally are used while their light source is very
close to the unit (such as a piano light), or powerful spotlights to shine upon the same area of the unit for extended periods of
time. Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.
355
• To avoid possible breakdown, do not use the unit in a wet area, such as an area exposed to rain or other moisture.
356
• Do not allow rubber, vinyl, or similar materials to remain on the unit for long periods of time. Such objects can discolor or
otherwise harmfully affect the finish.
357
• Do not put anything that contains water (e.g., flower vases) on the unit. Also, avoid the use of insecticides, perfumes, alcohol,
nail polish, spray cans, etc., near the unit. Swiftly wipe away any liquid that spills on the unit using a dry, soft cloth.
359
• Do not paste stickers, decals, or the like to this instrument. Peeling such matter off the instrument may damage the exterior
finish.
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.
5
IMPORTANT NOTES
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 writed on the paper.
552
• Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents of data that was stored in the unit’s memory once it has been lost.
Roland Corporation assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.
553
• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unit’s buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks and
connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.
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.
557
•A small amount of heat will radiate from the unit during normal operation.
558a
• To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the unit’s volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so
you do not need to be concerned about those around you (especially when it is late at night).
559a
• When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box (including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise, you will
need to use equivalent packaging materials.
561
• Use only the specified expression pedal (EV-5, BOSS FV-300L; sold separately). By connecting any other expression pedals, you
risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the unit.
562
• Use a cable from Roland to make the connection. If using some other make of connection cable, please note the following
precautions.
• Some connection cables contain resistors. Do not use cables that incorporate resistors for connecting to this unit. The use of
such cables can cause the sound level to be extremely low, or impossible to hear. For information on cable specifications,
contact the manufacturer of the cable.
6
Contents
●
●
IMPORTANT SAFTY INSTRUCTIONS .......... 2
USING THE UNIT SAFELY ............................ 3
IMPORTANT NOTES...................................... 5
Press [MANUAL], lighting the
indicator, when you want to operate
the VGA-3 as you would a regular
analog amplifier, whereby you make
new settings with the knobs, and
sound is produced in accord with the
positions of the knobs on the front
panel.
Memory Buttons [1]–[10]
Used for calling up memories and storing
settings.
Calling up Memory
When the [A/B] button is not lighted, the
memories numbered from 1 through 5 can be
selected (in the illustration, Memory 1 is selected).
Not Lit
When the [A/B] button is lit, the memories
numbered from 6 through 10 can be selected (in
the illustration, Memory 6 is selected).
Lit
*Memories contain the factory-set knob settings.
Guitar with GK-2A
or other
GK-compatible guitar
COSM GUITAR
Connect guitars equipped with GK pickups here.
The VGA-3 includes models of eleven guitar types,
from a general guitar to more specialized sounds,
including 12-string, synth, and sitar.
[GUITAR TYPE] : Select the modeling type.
[PICKUP]: Select the pickup position.
(only electric guitar modeling)
With the SYNTH model, you can use an optional
expression pedal to change the tone in real time,
offering even richer expression in your performances.
“Settings for the GK Pickup” (p. 11)
“COSM GUITAR” (p. 15)
Conventional
Guitar
COSM AMPLIFIER
You can adjust the tone simply and easily just by turning the knobs.
You can even connect a conventional electric guitar to this amp.
[AMP TYPE]: Selects the type of amp.
[GAIN]: Adjusts the amount of distortion.
[VOLUME]: Adjusts the volume level.
[EQUALIZER] (BASS, MIDDLE, TREBLE) :
Adjust the tone in the corresponding tone range.
*Adjust the overall volume with [MASTER].
*The Acoustic Guitar Simulator function is turned on when [ACOUSTIC] is
selected. This allows you to obtain an acoustic guitar sound using an electric
guitar connected to the normal guitar input.
“COSM AMPLIFIER” (p. 17)
Basic Operation
WRITE Button
Press this button to store knob and button
settings to memory.
Procedure
1. Press [WRITE].
2. Press a Memory button to select the memory
number to which you want to store the
setting.
3. Press [WRITE] again.
“MEMORY” (p. 21)
“Storing (Writing) to the VGA-3’s
Memories Using the GFC-50” (p. 23)
“Memory Sheet” (p. 33)
COSM(Compsite Object Sound Modeling)
Composite Object Sound Modeling (COSM) is Roland’s innovative and
powerful sound modeling technology. COSM analyzes the many factors
that make up the original sound, such as the electrical and physical
characteristics of the original, and then produces a digital model that can
reproduce the same sound.
MASTER Knob
Adjusts the VGA-3’s speaker
volume level or the volume from
RECORDING OUT/PHONES.
*The MASTER knob settings are
not stored in memory.
POWER Switch
This turns the VGA-3’s power on and
off.
*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.
Effects
You can select effects and control their depth
by positioning the knobs appropriately.
You can use [TAP] to set the delay time to the
tempo of the song being performed.
You can use all three effects types—EFX,
delay, and reverb—simultaneously.
*The panel position markings are approximate.
Check the sound of the effects as you make
adjustments.
*When an expression pedal is connected with
EFX set to WAH, the pedal is then used for a
pedal wah effect.
“Effects” (p. 18)
RECORDING OUT/PHONES Jack
When Using RECORDING OUT
Use a standard mono plug.
When using PHONES (Headphones)
Connect a pair of headphones.
* When stereo headphones are connected, the sound
is output in mono.
*No sound is output from the VGA-3’s speaker
while the RECORDING OUT/PHONES jack is
in use.
Headphones
Recorder
9
Basic Operation
Rear Panel
fig.0020
1.
2.
3.
FOOT SW Jack
This allows you to turn effects on and
off and to switch memories, etc. (p. 25).
MIDI IN Connector
Connecting a foot controller here
allows you to use your foot to
switch memories (p. 22).
Foot Controller
(GFC-50, FC-200 etc.)
PCS-31
(optional)
FS1
(white)
EXP PEDAL Jack
This allows you to control volume and wah
(EFX) and control the SYNTH LEAD or
SYNTH PAD filters.
EXT IN Jack
This lets you input sounds from an
external device.
*Although this jack is compatible with stereo
devices, sounds are output from the speaker
and RECORDING OUT/PHONES in
mono.
CD/MD Player etc.
FS2
(red)
Set the polarity switch
as shown below.
Foot Switch
(BOSS FS-5U)
921
* To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other
devices, always turn down the volume, and turn off the power
on all devices before making any connections.
Turning the Power On
Once the connections have been completed, 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.
The device connected to GK IN, INPUT or EXT IN
VGA-3
The device connected to RECORDING OUT/PHONES
Expression Pedal
(EV-5, BOSS FV-300L)
925
Backing Machine etc.
* Use only the specified expression pedal (EV-5 or BOSS FV-
300L; sold separately). By connecting any other expression
pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the
unit.
* 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. You should also turn down the volume level
to protect the unit from any sudden peak in volume. Even with
the volume all the way down, you may still hear some sound
when the power is switched on, but this is normal, and does
not indicate a malfunction.
10
Settings for the GK Pickup (GK Setup)
The tonal character of the VGA-3 (COSM Guitar) is greatly affected by how the divided pickup is installed.
You need to enter the appropriate GK pickup settings (GK Setup) so as to minimize any tonal inconsistency that might arise from
differences in how the divided pickup is installed.
Be sure to redo the settings when you switch to a different guitar.
Preparations for using the
GK Pickup
Attaching the GK-2A to your guitar
First, attach the GK-2A divided pickup (optional) to your
guitar.
To learn how, refer to the owner's manual for the GK-2A.
The GK-2A cannot be used with the following types
of guitar. (When attached to one of these guitars,
the GK-2A will not function correctly.)
• Guitars with unconventional string structures, such as
twelve-string guitars or pedal steel guitars
• Guitars that use nylon or gut strings
• Bass guitars
• Other guitars that, for structural reasons, have no location
where the GK-2A divided pickup can be attached
correctly
About the GK Pickup select switch
SYNTH:When using COSM guitar
MIX:When combining COSM guitar with the
normal pickup of the guitar
GUITAR:When using the normal pickup of the guitar
Basic Setting Procedure
Follow this basic process to set the GK pickup settings (GK
Setup).
Start the GK Setup
1. Connect a guitar equipped with a GK pickup to the
VGA-3.
2. Hold down [TUNER] and press [PICKUP].
The VGA-3 is now in the mode where settings for the GK
Setup can be made.
* The TUNER indicator () lights up, and all tone
adjustments made with knobs other than [MASTER] are
disabled.
3. Rotate [GUITAR TYPE] to select the type of setting you
want to make, then press the MEMORY buttons to
select the values.
The MEMORY buttons that can be used for selecting
values are lit, while the MEMORY button corresponding
to the current value flashes.
(Ex.) When “ST” (GK SETTING) is selected
fig.0021
Flash LitLit
About the SYNTH VOL knob of the GK Pickup
This controls the volume of the COSM guitar.
About the S1/S2 button of the GK Pickup
This allows you to select the pickups, memories, etc. (p. 13).
* Do not turn off the power while making the settings. This may
corrupt the settings already stored in the VGA-3. Always be
sure to exit from GK Setup mode before turning off the power.
*When you have finished GK Setup, press [TUNER] once more.
* There is no prescribed sequence for the GK Setup settings.
You are free to set only the parameters needed.
11
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