Roland VR-3EX User manual

Owner’s Manual (this document)

Read this first. It explains the basic things you need to know in order to use the VR-3EX.

PDF Manual (download from the Web)

•Remote Control Guide

This manual covers remote control of the unit via MIDI. It also describes MIDI Implementations (detailed documentation of MIDI messages).

Copyright © 2013 ROLAND CORPORATION

To obtain the PDF manual

1. Enter the following URL in your computer. http://www.rolandsystemsgroup.net/

2. Choose “VR-3EX” as the product name.

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

For the U.K.

WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED

IMPORTANT: THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE. GREEN-AND-YELLOW: EARTH, BLUE: NEUTRAL, BROWN: LIVE

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 symbolor 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.

Check the Included Items

The VR-3EX includes the following items. Please take a moment to confirm that all of these items have been included with the VR-3EX. If you find that any item is missing, contact the nearest authorized Roland distributor in your country.

FFVR-3EX	FFAC Adaptor/Power Cord	FFOwner’s Manual

*The shape of the power cord’s plug varies depending on the country.

Conventions in this manual

In order to explain the operations as clearly as possible, this manual uses the following conventions.

•Text enclosed in square brackets [ ] indicates the name of a button or a knob, such as the [SETUP] button, [VALUE] knob.

•Text enclosed in angle brackets < > indicates text that appears in the screen, such as <SETUP>.

•When the manual instructs you to “touch” something, it means that you should touch that location in the touch panel screen.

*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.

3

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

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

About WARNING and CAUTION Notices

About the Symbols

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.

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

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

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

ALWAYS OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING

WARNING

To completely turn off power to the unit, pull out the plug from the outlet

Even with the power switch turned off, this unit is not completely separated from its main source of power. When the power needs to be completely turned off, turn off

the power switch on the unit, then pull out the plug from the outlet. For this reason, the outlet into which you choose to connect the power cord’s plug should be one that is within easy reach and readily accessible.

Concerning the Auto Off function

The power to this unit will be turned off automatically after a predetermined amount of time has passed since its

buttons or controls were operated (Auto

Off function). If you do not want the power to be turned off automatically, disengage the Auto Off function (p. 44).

Do not disassemble or modify by yourself

Do not carry out anything unless you are instructed to do so in the owner’s manual. Otherwise, you risk causing malfunction.

Do not repair or replace parts by yourself

Refer all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information.”

Do not use or store in the following types of locations

• Subject to temperature extremes (e.g.,

direct sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating duct, on top of heatgenerating equipment); or are

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

• Exposed to steam or smoke; or are

•Subject to salt exposure; or are

•Exposed to rain; or are

•Dusty or sandy; or are

•Subject to high levels of vibration and shakiness.

WARNING

Do not place in an unstable location

Otherwise, you risk injury as the result of the unit toppling over or dropping down.

Use only the supplied AC adaptor and the correct voltage

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.

Use only the supplied power cord

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

Do not bend the power cord or place heavy objects on it

Otherwise, fire or electric shock may result.

Avoid extended use at high volume

Use of the unit at high volume for extended periods of time may cause hearing loss. If you ever experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should immediately stop using the unit and consult a specialized physician.

Do not allow foreign objects or liquids to enter unit; never place containers with liquid on unit

Do not place containers containing liquid (e.g., flower vases) on this product. Never allow foreign objects (e.g., flammable objects, coins, wires) or liquids (e.g., water or juice) to enter this product. Doing so may cause short circuits, faulty operation, or other malfunctions.

WARNING

Turn off the unit if an abnormality or malfunction occurs

Immediately turn the unit 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” when:

•The AC adaptor or the power cord has been damaged; or

•If smoke or unusual odor occurs; or

•Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been spilled onto the unit; or

•The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise has become wet); or

•The unit does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance.

Be cautious to protect children from injury

Always make sure that an adult is on hand to provide supervision and guidance when using the unit in places where children are present, or when a child will be using the unit.

Do not drop or subject to strong impact

Otherwise, you risk causing damage or malfunction.

Do not share an outlet with an unreasonable number of other devices

Otherwise, you risk overheating or fire.

Do not use overseas

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

4

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

CAUTION

Place in a well ventilated location

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

When disconnecting the power cord, grasp it by the plug

To prevent conductor damage, always grasp the power cord by its plug when disconnecting it from this unit or from a power outlet.

Periodically clean the power plug

An accumulation of dust or foreign objects between the power plug and the power

outlet can lead to fire or electric shock.

At regular intervals, be sure to pull out the

power plug, and using a dry cloth, wipe away any dust or foreign objects that may have accumulated.

Disconnect the power plug whenever the unit will not be used for an extended period of time

Fire may result in the unlikely event that a breakdown occurs.

Route all power cords and cables in such a way as to prevent them from getting entangled

Injury could result if someone were to trip on a cable and cause the unit to fall or topple.

Avoid climbing on top of the unit, or placing heavy objects on it

Otherwise, you risk injury as the result of the unit toppling over or dropping down.

Never connect/disconnect a power plug if your hands are wet

Otherwise, you could receive an electric shock.

Disconnect all cords/cables before moving the unit

Before moving the unit, disconnect the power plug from the outlet, and pull out all cords from external devices.

Before cleaning the unit, disconnect the power plug from the outlet

If the power plug is not removed from the outlet, you risk receiving an electric shock.

Whenever there is a threat of lightning, disconnect the power plug from the outlet

If the power plug is not removed from the outlet, you risk receiving an electric shock.

Handle the ground terminal carefully

If you remove the screw from the ground terminal, be sure to replace it; don’t leave it lying around where it could accidently be swallowed by small children. When

refastening the screw, make that it is firmly fastened, so it won’t come loose.

CAUTION

Precautions concerning use of phantom power supply

Always turn the phantom power off when connecting any device other than condenser microphones that require phantom power. You risk causing damage

if you mistakenly supply phantom power to dynamic microphones, audio playback devices, or other devices that don’t require such power. Be sure to check the specifications of any microphone you intend to use by referring to the manual that came with it.

(This instrument’s phantom power: 48V DC, 10 mA Max)

5

IMPORTANT NOTES

Power Supply

•Do not connect this unit to same electrical outlet that is being used by an electrical appliance that is controlled by an inverter or a motor (such as a refrigerator, washing machine, microwave oven, or air conditioner). Depending on the way in which

the electrical appliance is used, power supply noise may cause this unit to malfunction or may produce audible noise. If it is not practical to use a separate electrical outlet, connect a power supply noise filter between this unit and the electrical outlet.

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

Placement

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

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

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

•Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed vehicle, or otherwise subject it to

temperature extremes. Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.

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

•Depending on the material and temperature of the surface on which you place the unit, its rubber feet may discolor or mar the surface.

You can place a piece of felt or cloth under the rubber feet to prevent this from happening. If you do so, please make sure that the unit will not slip or move accidentally.

•Do not place containers or anything else containing liquid on top of this unit. Also, whenever any liquid has been spilled on the surface of this unit, be sure to promptly wipe it away using a soft, dry cloth.

Maintenance

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

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

Repairs and Data

•Before sending the unit away for repairs, be sure to make a backup of the data stored within it; or you may prefer to write down the needed information. Although we will do our utmost to preserve the data stored in your unit when we carry out repairs, in some cases, such as when the memory section is physically damaged, restoration of the stored content may be impossible. Roland assumes no liability concerning the restoration of any stored content that has been lost.

Additional Precautions

•Any data stored within the unit can be lost as the result of equipment failure, incorrect operation, etc. To protect yourself against the irretrievable loss of data, try to make a habit of creating regular backups of the data you’ve stored in the unit.

•Roland assumes no liability concerning the restoration of any stored content that has been lost.

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

•Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.

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

•To avoid disturbing others nearby, try to keep the unit’s volume at reasonable levels.

•When you need to transport the unit, pack it in shock-absorbent material. Transporting the unit without doing so can cause it to become scratched or damaged, and could lead to malfunction.

•This unit allows you to switch images at high speed. For some people, viewing such images can cause headache, nausea, or other discomfort. Do not use this unit to create video that might cause these types of health problems. Roland Corporation

will accept no responsibility for any such health problems that may occur in yourself or in viewers.

Copyrights/Licenses/Trademarks

•It is forbidden by law to make an audio recording, video recording, copy or revision of a third party’s copyrighted work (musical work, video work, broadcast, live performance, or other work), whether in whole or in part, and distribute, sell, lease, perform, or broadcast it without the permission of the copyright owner.

•Do not use this product 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 product.

•This product can be used to record or duplicate audio or visual material without being limited by certain technological copy-protection measures. This is due to the fact that this product is intended to be used for the purpose of producing original music or video material, and is therefore designed so that material that does not infringe copyrights belonging to others (for example, your own original works) can be recorded or duplicated freely.

•MMP (Moore Microprocessor Portfolio) refers to a patent portfolio concerned with microprocessor architecture, which was developed by Technology Properties Limited (TPL). Roland has licensed this technology from the TPL Group.

•Roland is either registered trademark or trademark of Roland Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

•Company names and product names appearing in this document are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective owners.

•Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

•Apple, Macintosh, Mac OS, the Mac logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Apple Inc.

6

Contents

Check the Included Items.........................................	3
USING THE UNIT SAFELY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	4
IMPORTANT NOTES .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	6

Panel Descriptions.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Top Panel/Front Panel.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Audio Section.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Video Section.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Rear Panel/Side Panel .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Signal Flow.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Connecting External Equipment.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	14
Connecting Video Source/Output Equipment.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	14
Connecting Audio Source/Output Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	15
Using Phantom Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	15
Connecting a Computer Via USB.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	16
Connecting the AC Adaptor .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	16
Basic Operations.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	17
Turning the Power On and Off.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	17
Switching the Monitor View Mode.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	17
Menu Operations .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	18
Supported Video Formats.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	19
Input Formats. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	19
Output Formats.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	19
Video Input/Output Settings .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20
Assigning Video Sources to Video Channels.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20
Setting the Video Output Format .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20
Adjusting the Main Output Video.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	21
Changing the Video Output from the Video Output Connectors.. ..21
Adjusting the Input Video on Video Channel 4...................	22
Inputting Copyright-protected (HDCP) Video. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	23
Video Operations.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	24
Switching the Video.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	24
Switching by Touching the Screen.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	24
Switching the Video Using Buttons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	24
Switching Automatically. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	25
Using a Different Transition Pattern.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	25
Applying a Fade to the Main Output Video (Output Fade). . . . . . . .	26
Stopping (Freezing) the Main Output Video.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	26
Compositing the Video.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	27
Compositing Using Picture-in-Picture (PinP). . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	27
Compositing Using Split (SPLIT).. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..	28
Compositing Four Video Streams on a Single Screen
(QUAD) .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	29
Compositing Using Luminance Key/Chroma Key .. . . . . . . . . .	30
Applying Effects to Video.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	33

Audio Operations.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	34
Adjusting the Volume Balance of Input Audio.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	34
Adjusting the Input Sensitivity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	34
Adjusting the Sound Position (Pan) .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	34
Adjusting the Volume Balance.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	35
Adjusting the Volume Level of Main Output Audio .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .	35
Adjusting the Volume Level of USB Output Audio .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	35
Applying Effects to Audio.......................................	36
Applying Effects to Input Audio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	36
Applying Effects to Main Output Audio .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	37
Hearing Only Specific Input Audio (Solo/Mute).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	38
Aligning the Output Timing of Video and Audio (Lip-sync).. . . . . . .	38
Using the AUX Bus .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	39
Interlinking Audio Output to Video Switching (Audio Follow).. . . .	40

Operations Using a Computer .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Outputting Streaming-use Video/Audio to a Computer. . . . . . . . . . 41 Recording Video on a Computer.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Operating the VR-3EX by Remote Control.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Other Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	42
Saving/Recalling Settings (Memory) .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	42
Backing Up/Restoring the VR-3EX’s Settings.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	43
Turning Off the Power Automatically (Auto Off).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	44
Returning Settings to the Factory-default State (Factory Reset) .. .	44
Switching Between the NTSC and PAL Formats.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	45
Appendices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	46
Troubleshooting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	46
Menu List.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	47
Menu Screens.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	47
Setup Screens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	49
Transition Effects List.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	52
Main Specifications.............................................	55
Dimensions.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	56
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	57

7

Panel Descriptions

Top Panel/Front Panel

1

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

2

1

	3
6	18

4	19
	20
16	17

7	21
	5
8	22

	No.	Name		Explanation		Page
	1	Internal Microphones		These are internal microphones for picking up ambient audio. To adjust the level, use 11 the [INTERNAL MIC] knob.		p. 35
				* The internal microphones are sensitive enough to pick up sounds of the VR-3EX’s buttons and faders being operated.
	2	[MENU] Button		This displays the menu screen on the monitor.
						p. 18
	3	[VALUE] Knob		This selects menu items and changes setting values. Pressing the [VALUE] knob selects a menu item or applies
				changes made to a setting value.
				• This displays the incoming video from the sources, the VR-3EX’s output video, a volume level meter, menu screens,		p. 17
	4			and the like. To change the monitor’s view mode, use 13 the [MONITOR] buttons.
		Monitor (Touch Screen)				p. 18
				• You change the picture and select menu items by touching the screen.
				* Don’t touch the screen in two or more locations simultaneously; the locations cannot be detected correctly.		p. 24
	5	PHONES Jacks		You can use these to connect standard-type (1/4-inch) and mini-stereo headphones. You can use both at the same time.		p. 15

Audio Section

This section is for mixing audio and adjusting the input sensitivity of the audio channels.

	No.	Name	Explanation			Page
			These display the input level of the audio channels.
		SIG/PEAK Indicators	•	Lighted in green:	Input detected	p. 34
			•	Lighted in red:	Volume exceeded maximum input level
	6
		[GAIN] Knob	These adjust the gain (input sensitivity) of the audio channels.
		[EQ] Knobs	You use the [HI], [MID], and [LO] knobs to adjust the sound quality of the audio channels. These let you emphasize or			p. 36
			attenuate the high (HI), midrange (MID), and low (LO) bands.
		[SETUP] Button	These display the setup screens for the audio channels on the monitor.			-
	7	Channel Faders	These adjust the volume levels of the audio channels			p. 35
		Level Meter	This displays the volume level of the main output audio.			p. 35
	8	[REVERB] Knob	This adjusts the return level from reverb of the audio.			p. 37
		[MAIN] Fader	This adjusts the volume level of the main output audio.			p. 35
		[SETUP] Button	This displays the setup screen for main audio output on the monitor.			-

8

				Panel Descriptions
	No.	Name	Explanation		Page
9		[HDMI] Knob	This adjusts the volume level of HDMI audio (embedded audio).		p. 35
		[SETUP] Button	This displays the setup screen for HDMI audio on the monitor.		-
10		[USB LEVEL] Knob	This adjusts the volume level of audio output via USB.		p. 35
11		[INTERNAL MIC] Knob	This adjusts the volume level of the internal microphones.		p. 35
		[SETUP] Button	This displays the setup screen for the internal microphones on the monitor.		-
12		[PHONES] Knob	This adjusts the volume of headphones connected to the PHONES jacks.		-

Video Section

This section is for making picture transitions, compositing video, and making effect settings.

	No.	Name	Explanation	Page
			You use the [INPUT], [OUTPUT], and [IN+OUT] buttons to switch the view mode for the monitor.
			• [INPUT] Button (Input Mode)
			This displays the input video from the respective source devices as a four-way split screen. You change the picture by
	13		touching the screen.
		[MONITOR] Buttons	• [OUTPUT] Button (Input Mode)	p. 17
			This displays the results of video mixing (main output video). You also use it to adjust the location and size of the
			inset screen for Picture-in-Picture.
			• [IN + OUT] Button (In/Out Mode)
			This displays the currently output video overlaid on the four-way split screen of input video.
	14	HDCP Indicator	This lights up, flashes, or goes dark according to the VR-3EX’s “HDCP” setting and the connected status of HDCP-	p. 23
			compatible equipment.
	15	[IN/OUT SETUP] Button	This displays the input/output setup screen for video on the monitor. You use it to set the video input connectors	p. 20
			assigned to the respective video channels. You also use it to specify which video signals are output from the video
				p. 21
			output connectors
			You use the [CUT], [MIX], and [WIPE] buttons to select video transition effects.

•[CUT] Button

The picture switches instantly.

16	[TRANSITION] Buttons	•	[MIX] Button	p. 24
			In this transition, as the original picture gradually disappears, the next video is overlaid and progressively grows
			more visible.

•[WIPE] Button

In this transition, the original video is broken into by the next video.

You use the [PinP], [SPLIT], and [QUAD] buttons to select video composition effects.

		•	[PinP] Button
17			This composites video in an inset screen over a background video.
	[COMPOSITION] Buttons	•	[SPLIT] Button						p. 27
			This composites two video streams in a split screen.
		•	[QUAD] Button
			This composites the input pictures on video channels 1 through 4 in a single screen.
		This performs a fade-in or fade-out for the main output video. Turning the control clockwise applies a white fade.
		Turning it counterclockwise applies a black fade.
18	[OUTPUT] Knob	The indicator above the [OUTPUT] knob shows the status of the fade.							p. 26
		•	Flashing: Fade-in/fade-out in progress
		•	Lighted: Normal output
	[FREEZE] Button	This stops (freezes) the current output video. The [FREEZE] button lights up during a freeze.							p. 26
19	[TRANSITION] Knob	This sets the video transition time (in seconds).							p. 24
	[SETUP] Button	This displays the setup screen for transition effects on the monitor. You use it to specify the transition effects to the							p. 25
		[MIX] button and the [WIPE] button.
		This turns the effect applied to the output video on and off. Turning the control clockwise or counterclockwise turns
20	[VIDEO FX] Knob	on the effect assigned to the respective direction. When the control is centered, effects are set to “off.”
		Also, depending on effect type, this control adjusts the degree of effect applied or changes the setting value.							p. 33
	[SETUP] Button	This displays the setup screen for effects on the monitor. You use it to specify the effects assigned to the [VIDEO FX] knob.
	[KEY] Button	This switches key composition on or off. When on, the [KEY] button lights up.							p. 30
21		This adjusts the amount of keying for key composition.							p. 30
	[KEY LEVEL] Knob	•	Turning the control clockwise (				) performs luminance-key composition.
									p. 31
		•	Turning the control counterclockwise (					) performs chroma-key composition.
22	[VIDEO SELECT] buttons	You use these buttons to switch the video.							p. 24

9

Panel Descriptions

Rear Panel/Side Panel

3		4		5		6		4		7

1

2

8

9

10

No.

Name

Explanation

Page

1

[POWER] Switch

This turns the power to the VR-3EX on and off.

p. 17

2

AC Adaptor Jack

This is for connecting the included AC adaptor.

p. 16

3

Power Cord Hook

Use this to secure the AC adapter cord in place.

These output the results of audio mixing. Here you connect a video recorder or other recording equipment, or an

amplifier or speakers.

* The VR-3EX has two internal audio buses (the MAIN bus and the AUX bus), and you can select the audio bus to

4

Audio Output Connectors

output for each individual connector.

p. 15

•

AUDIO OUT Connectors (L, R)

These accept RCA phono type plugs.

•

AUX OUT Connectors (L, R)

These accept 1/4-inch phone type plugs.

These output the results of video mixing (main output video).

		•	VIDEO output Connector
			Here you can connect a video monitor, recording unit, or other device equipped with a composite input connector.
5	Video Output Connectors		* You can also output the incoming video on video channels 1 through 4 as a four-way split screen.
		•	RGB/COMPONENT Output Connector
			Here you connect equipment such as a projector or recording unit that is equipped with an analog RGB/compo-
			nent input connector.
		•	HDMI Output Connector
			Here you connect an external display or other device equipped with an HDMI input connector.	p. 14
		These are for inputting video signals from a computer or video devices such as video cameras and DVD players.
		•	VIDEO Input Connectors (video channels 1–4)
			Here you connect video cameras, DVD players, and other devices equipped with composite output connectors.
6	Video Input Connectors 1–4	•	RGB/COMPONENT Input Connector (video channel 4)
			Here you connect a device such as a computer that is equipped with an analog RGB/component output connector.
		•	HDMI Input Connectors (video channels 1–4)
			Here you connect video cameras and other devices equipped with HDMI output connectors.

* You can specify the video input connector assigned to each individual video channel.

These are for inputting audio signals from video decks, microphones, audio mixers, and other such audio equipment.

You can connect video decks, CD players, microphones, and other devices.

•AUDIO INPUT (XLR/TRS) Connectors 1–4

These accept XLR and TRS 1/4-inch phone type plugs. Input via XLR/TRS connectors 1 through 4 is assigned to audio channels 1 through 4.

7

Audio Input Connectors 1–7/8

* You can supply phantom power (+48 V) from the XLR connectors.

p. 15

•AUDIO IN 5/6 Connectors (L, R)

These accept RCA phono type plugs. Input via the AUDIO IN 5 and 6 connectors is assigned to audio channel 5 and 6.

•AUDIO IN 7/8 Connector (L, R)

This accepts a miniature stereo phone plug. Input via the AUDIO IN 7/8 connector is assigned to audio channels 7 and 8.

•This outputs the results of video and audio mixing. You can connect a computer and send video and audio over the

	88	USB port	Internet, or record it on the computer.	p. 16
			* You can also output the incoming video on video channels 1 through 4 as a four-way split screen.	p. 41
			• You can use VR-3EX RCS dedicated software to operate the VR-3EX remotely from a connected computer.

10

Panel Descriptions

11

7

12

13

No.

Name

Explanation

Page

9

This outputs the incoming video on video channels 1 through 4 as a four-way split screen. You can connect a preview

PVW OUT Connector

monitor equipped with an HDMI input connector.

p. 14

* You can also output the same video as the VIDEO OUT connectors (main output video).

	10	Grounding Terminal	You use this to connect the unit to an external ground.			p. 16
			This switches the phantom power of the AUDIO INPUT (XLR) connectors on and off. The unit has separate switches for
			audio channels 1/2 and audio channels 3/4, so you can set these individually.
	11
		[PHANTOM] Switches		NOTE		p. 15
				Always turn the phantom power “OFF” when connecting any device other than condenser microphones
				that require phantom power. You risk causing damage if you mistakenly supply phantom power to dynamic
				microphones, audio playback devices, or other devices that don’t require such power.
		Security Slot	You can attach a commercially available security lock here. For details, refer to the following website:			-
		SECURITY LOCK)	http://www.kensington.com/
	13	MIDI IN Connector	You can connect external MIDI devices to remotely control the VR-3EX.			p. 41
		MIDI OUT/THRU Connector

11

Signal Flow

Signal flow inside the VR-50HD is as shown in the figure below.

Video signals

	HDMI	Frame Sync
	INPUT 1
		I/P	480p/576p
	Composite
		Converter
	HDMI	Frame Sync
	INPUT 2
		I/P	480p/576p
	Composite
		Converter
	HDMI	Frame Sync
	INPUT 3
		I/P	480p/576p
	Composite
		Converter
	HDMI
	INPUT 4 Composite	Scaler	Frame
		480p/576p	Sync
	RGB/
	Component

1

2

CUT

PinP

VIDEO FX

KEY

Input

MIX

SPLIT

Chroma

Select

11types

WIPE

QUAD

Lumi

3

250types

Mixer

4

Multi

Viewer

Audio signals

									INPUT BUS
PHANTOM						CH LEVEL		MAIN	AUX		SOLO
	SIG/PEAK						L	R REVERB	L	R	L R
+48V				MUTE	DELAY	LEVEL	PAN
CH 1–4		HPF
			GATE	COMP	DELAY
	GAIN	EQ				FOLLOW	REVERB SEND
					DELAY
					AUX DELAY	AUX SEND
						SOLO
						CH LEVEL

	HPF		MUTE	DELAY	LEVEL
INT MIC
		GATE	COMP	DELAY
	EQ					REVERB SEND
					FOLLOW
				DELAY
				AUX DELAY	AUX SEND
					SOLO

3Band EQ

	REVERB LEVEL
CH LEVEL	REVERB

CH 5/6, 7/8	HPF	MUTE	DELAY	LEVEL
HDMI 1/2/3/4	EQ		DELAY	FOLLOW	REVERB SEND
			DELAY
			AUX DELAY	AUX SEND
				SOLO

12

Signal Flow

480p/576p	Scaler	OUTPUT		HDMI
	up to 1080p			RGB/	(*)
		OUTPUT		Component
		ENCODER		USB	(*)
		(Motion JPEG)		STREAMING
		PVW OUT		HDMI PVW
		P/I		Composite	(*)
	OUTPUT	Converter
	+
480p/576p	MULTI		1	2
		OSD				* Total latency: 2 frames (from Input 1–3 to Output), 3 frames (from Input 4 to Output)
			3 OUT	4 Built-In Monitor
						* Internal Processing: 480/59.94p when set to NTSC, 576/50p when set to PAL

OUTPUT BUS

	MAIN		AUX	SOLO
	L	R	L R	L	R
						USB LEVEL
					USB DELAY
					DELAY	USB OUT	(*)
					DELAY
					USB LEVEL
					HDMI VIDEO OUT
					HDMI PVW OUT
	MAIN LEVEL
	L
MAIN LEVEL	R
MASTERING
AUX LEVEL	AUX LEVEL
						PHONES OUT
					PHONES LEVEL
					MAIN OUT	(*)
					AUX OUT	(*)

* When “HDCP” is set to “ON” (p. 23), no audio and video signals are output from these connectors. Audio output to PHONES jacks are always on.	13

Connecting External Equipment

*To prevent malfunction and equipment failure, always turn down the volume, and turn off all the units before making any connections.

*Be sure to use cables and adapter plugs with the proper connectors matching those of the other devices you are using.

Connecting Video Source/Output Equipment

After making the connections, press the [IN/OUT SETUP] button and specify the video input connector for inputting video channels 1 through 4 (p. 20).

Computer

Video source

Video cameras, DVD players, etc.

equipment

Analog RGB	Component output	Composite output	HDMI
output connector	connectors	connector	output connector

* Set the output from HDMI devices connected to HDMI input connectors 1 through 3 to 480p (when set to NTSC) or 576p (when set to PAL).

Composite	HDMI input	Analog RGB	Component input	HDMI input
input connector	connector	input connector	connectors	connector

	Main video output
		Displays, projectors, recording units, etc.					Preview monitor
	equipment

14

Connecting External Equipment

Connecting Audio Source/Output Equipment

Audio output

Amplifiers, speakers, recording units, etc.

equipment

Audio input connectors

* The VR-3EX has two internal audio buses (the MAIN bus and the AUX bus), and you can select the audio bus to output for each individual connector (p. 39).

Headphones

Front Panel

*AUDIO INPUT connectors 1 through 4 are balanced-type (XLR/TRS) input jacks, and are wired as shown in the figure below. Make connections after first checking the wiring diagrams of other equipment you intend to connect.

TIP:	HOT	2: HOT	1: GND
RING:	COLD

SLEEVE: GND

3: COLD

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

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

•Changing the orientation of the microphone(s).

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

•Lowering volume levels.

Using Phantom Power

The VR-3EX supports phantom power. When using a condenser microphone that requires phantom power, set the [PHANTOM] switch to “ON.”

NOTE

Always turn the phantom power off when connecting any device other than condenser microphones that require phantom power. You risk causing damage if you mistakenly supply phantom power to dynamic microphones, audio playback devices, or other devices that don’t require such power. Be sure to check the specifications of any microphone you intend to use by referring to the manual that came with it.

(This instrument’s phantom power: 48V DC, 10 mA Max)

Audio source		Video decks,
equipment		CD players, etc.

Audio output connectors

	Audio source	Microphones, audio mixers, etc.
	equipment

Audio output connectors

15

Connecting External Equipment

Connecting a Computer Via USB

*Making the connection using an extension cable or USB hub might result in the computer failing to recognize the VR-3EX. We recommend using a direct connection between the VR-3EX and the computer.

USB2.0 port

Supported Operating Systems

Windows

•Windows XP Home Edition / Professional Edition Service Pack 3 or later

•Windows Vista Service Pack 2 or later

•Windows 7

•Windows 8

•Windows 8.1

Mac

•Mac OS X 10.6 or later

*Connection and operation of the VR-3EX with standard computers running the operating systems described above have been verified, but connection and operation with all computers satisfying such conditions is not assured. Connection or operation may be impossible due to differences in setting specifications or the usage environment that are specific to the equipment.

Making the Connection to a Computer

1. Using a USB cable, connect a USB 2.0 port on the computer to the USB port on the VR-3EX.

2. Turn on the power to the VR-3EX (p. 17).

3. Start the computer.

4. Wait for communication between the VR-3EX and the computer to be established.

When communication with the computer starts, the operating system’s standard driver is automatically installed.

*The VR-3EX is seen as a USB video device or USB audio device by the computer.

Connecting the AC Adaptor

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.

AC adaptor

(included) Power cord (included)

To AC Outlet

Place the AC adaptor so the side with the indicator (see illustration) faces upwards and the side with textual information faces downwards. The indicator will light when you plug the AC adaptor into an AC outlet.

About the Grounding 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)

16

Basic Operations

Turning the Power On and Off

Once everything is properly connected (p. 14), be sure to

follow the procedure below to turn on their power. If you turn on equipment in the wrong order, you risk causing malfunction or equipment failure.

*Before turning the unit on/off, always be sure to turn the volume down. Even with the volume turned down, you might hear some sound when switching the unit on/off. However, this is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

Turning the power on

1. Make sure all devices are turned off.

2. Turn on the power to the VR-3EX.

*The VR-3EX is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval (a few seconds) after turning the unit on is required before it will operate normally.

3.Turn on the power to the source devices.

Turn on the power to video cameras or other source equipment connected to input connectors on the VR-3EX.

4.Turn on the power to the output devices.

Turn on the power to projectors or other devices connected to output connectors on the VR-3EX.

Turning the power off

1. Turn off the power in the sequence of first the output equipment, and then the sources.

2. Press the [POWER] button on the VR-3EX to turn off the power.

About the Auto Off function

The power to the VR-3EX turns off automatically when all of the following states persist for 240 minutes (Auto Off function).

•No operation (including remote-control operation) performed on the VR-3EX

•No audio or video input

*If you do not want the power to be turned off automatically, disengage the Auto Off function (p. 44).

*When the power has been turned off by the Auto Off function, to restart, first press the [POWER] button to return it, then turn on the power.

NOTE

Any settings that you are in the process of editing will be lost when the power is turned off. If you have any settings that you want to keep, you should save them beforehand.

Switching the Monitor View Mode

The monitor on the VR-3EX has three view modes.

You use the [MONITOR] buttons to switch the view mode. The selected button lights up.

[INPUT] button: Input mode

This displays video input from source equipment on a four-way split screen.

The input video (channels 1 through 4) is arranged as shown below.

Channel Channel

1 2

Channel Channel

3 4

[OUTPUT] button: Output mode

This displays the video currently being output.

[IN + OUT] button: In/Out mode

This displays the current video output overlaid on a four-way split screen displaying the input from source equipment.

You can change the size and location of the output screen.

•Turning the [VALUE] knob clockwise enlarges the size, and turning it counterclockwise reduces it. You can enlarge or reduce the screen size in greater increments by holding down the [VALUE] knob as you turn it.

•To change the display location of the output screen, touch and drag the screen with your finger.

MEMO

•You can select either “16:9” or “4:3” as the aspect ratio for video displayed on the monitor. Use [MENU] g<SETUP> g<LCD PREVIEW ASPECT> to select.

•You can select either “LOW” (dark) or “HIGH” (bright) as the brightness level of the monitor. Use [MENU] g<SETUP> g <LCD BRIGHTNESS> to select.

•You can dim the background screen (four-way split screen) in the in/out mode. Use [MENU] g<SETUP> g<BCKGRD LEVOVERLAY> to adjust.

•You can hide the level meter displayed at the bottom of the screen. Use [MENU] g<SETUP> g<LEVEL METER DISPLAY> to set the value to “OFF.”

17

Basic Operations

Menu Operations

To make various settings on the VR-3EX, you display and use the menu screen and the respective setup screens.

MEMO

•Settings made at the menu screen and setup screens are saved in the VR-3EX’s internal memory when you quit the screen.

•If you want to make the video preview disappear and display only the menu, press the currently lighted [MONITOR] button to make it go dark.

•To display a setup screen, press its [SETUP] button. Except for the step of selecting a category, the procedure is the same as for using the menu screen. At the setup screen for HDMI audio, touchandat the upper left of the screen to select HDMI audio 1 through 4.

1. Press the [MENU] button to display the menu screen.

4. Turn the [VALUE] knob to change the setting value.

2.

3.

Menu category icons are displayed at the bottom of the screen.

Touch an icon to choose a category.

• Touching or next to an icon switches the screen and lets you select a different icon.

•You can also choose an icon by turning and pressing the [VALUE] knob.

A list of menu items for the selected category is displayed.

Touch the screen to select a setting item.

•You can change the setting value in larger steps by holding down the [VALUE] knob as you turn it.

5.Press the [VALUE] knob to apply the setting.

•Changes made to the following setting items are not updated until you apply the setting value.

	Category	Setting item
	VIDEO CH4	RESOLUTION
	VIDEO OUTPUT	OUTPUT RESOLUTION
		OUTPUT DVI-HDMI
	SETUP	HDCP
		NTSC/PAL

6. Press the [MENU] button twice to quit the menu screen.

Pressing the [MENU] button once returns you to the menu screen. Pressing the [MENU] button a second time quits the menu screen.

MEMO

•You can adjust the brightness of the menu display. Use [MENU] g<SETUP> g<MENU DISPLAY LEVEL> to adjust.

•For detailed information about menu items, refer to “Menu List” (p. 47).

The selected setting item is displayed with a red background.

• Depending on the item, the setting items might not all fit on a single screen. In such cases, touch the or cursor to scroll the display.

18