Roland VS-880EX User Manual
®
OWNER'S MANUAL
OWNER'S MANUAL
Copyright © 1998 ROLAND CORPORATION
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form
without the written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION.
Roland Homepage http://www.rolandcorp.com/
Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” (p. 2), “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (p.
3, 4), and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (p. 5). These sections provide important
information concerning the proper operation of the unit. Additionally, in
order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp of every feature
provided by your new unit, Quick Start, Owner’s Manual, and Appendices
should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on
hand as a convenient reference.
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:
Read all the instructions before using the product.
Do not use this product near water — for example, near a
bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, in a wet basement, or near
a swimming pool, or the like.
This product should be used only with a cart or stand that is
recommended by the manufacturer.
This product, 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 consult an
audiologist.
The product should be located so that its location or position
does not interfere with its proper ventilation.
The product should be located away from heat sources such
as radiators, heat registers, or other products that produce
heat.
The product should be connected to a power supply only of
the type described in the operating instructions or as marked
on the product.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
The power-supply cord of the product should be unplugged
from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time.
Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids
are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.
The product should be serviced by qualified service
personnel when:
The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or
Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the
product; or
The product has been exposed to rain; or
The product does not appear to operate normally or
exhibits a marked change in performance; or
The product has been dropped, or the enclosure
damaged.
Do not attempt to service the product beyond that described
in the user-maintenance instructions. All other servicing
should be referred to qualified service personnel.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This product must be grounded. If it should malfunction or breakdown, grounding provides a path of least resistance for
electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock.
This product is equipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be
plugged into an appropriate outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
DANGER: Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric shock. Check with a
qualified electrician or serviceman if you are in doubt as to whether the product is properly grounded.
Do not modify the plug provided with the product — if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified
electrician.
For the USA
The product which is equipped with a THREE WIRE GROUNDING TYPE LINE PLUG must be grounded.
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.
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
For the U.K.
For the USA
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Unauthorized changes or modification to this system can void the users authority to operate this equipment.
This equipment requires shielded interface cables in order to meet FCC class B Limit.
This product complies with the requirements of European Directives EMC 89/336/EEC and LVD 73/23/EEC.
For EU Countries
For Canada
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
NOTICE
AVIS
2 191
• Before using this unit, make sure to read the instructions below, and the Owner’s Manual.
...........................................................................................................
• Do not open or perform any internal modifications
on the unit. (The only exception would be where
this manual provides specific instructions which
should be followed in order to put in place userinstallable options; see Quick Start p. 49.)
...........................................................................................................
• 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.
...........................................................................................................
• Avoid damaging the power cord. Do not bend it
excessively, step on it, place heavy objects on it, etc.
A damaged cord can easily become a shock or fire
hazard. Never use a power cord after it has been
damaged.
...........................................................................................................
• 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.
...........................................................................................................
• Protect the unit from strong impact.
(Do not drop it!)
• 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” page.
...........................................................................................................
• Always turn the unit off and unplug the power cord
before attempting installation of the Hard disk drive
unit (HDP88 series: Quick Start p. 49).
USING THE UNIT SAFELY
3
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.
Used for instructions intended to alert
the user to the risk of death or severe
injury should the unit be used
improperly.
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.
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.
• Always grasp only the plug on the power-supply
cord when plugging into, or unplugging from, an
outlet or this unit.
...........................................................................................................
• 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.
...........................................................................................................
• Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on
the unit.
...........................................................................................................
• Never handle the power cord or its plugs with wet
hands when plugging into, or unplugging from, an
outlet or this unit.
...........................................................................................................
• Before moving the unit, disconnect the power plug
from the outlet, and pull out all cords from external
devices.
...........................................................................................................
• Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and
unplug the power cord from the outlet (p. 33).
...........................................................................................................
• Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in
your area, pull the plug on the power cord out of
the outlet.
...........................................................................................................
• When installing the Hard disk drive unit (HDP88
series), remove only the specified screws (Quick
Start p. 49).
...........................................................................................................
• If you use the optical connector, be sure that the
connector cover you removed is placed out of the
reach of children.
USING THE UNIT SAFELY
4
In addition to the items listed under “IMPORTANT
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” and “USING THE UNIT
SAFELY” on pages 2–4, please read and observe the
following:
Power Supply
● 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).
● 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
● Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other
equipment containing large power transformers)
may induce hum. To alleviate the problem, change
the orientation of this unit; or move it farther away
from the source of interference.
● This device may interfere with radio and television
reception. Do not use this device in the vicinity of
such receivers.
● 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.
Maintenance
● For everyday cleaning wipe the unit with a soft, dry
cloth or one that has been slightly dampened with
water. To remove stubborn dirt, use a cloth impregnated with a mild, non-abrasive detergent.
Afterwards, be sure to wipe the unit thoroughly
with a soft, dry cloth.
● Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of
any kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration
and/or deformation.
Repairs and Data
● Please be aware that all data contained in the unit’s
memory may be lost when the unit is sent for
repairs. Important data should always be backed up
on a storage device (e.g., hard disk or Zip disk) or
DAT recorder, 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
● 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 storage device (e.g., hard disk or Zip
disk), or DAT recorder.
● Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the
contents of data that was stored on a storage device
(e.g., hard disk or Zip disk), or DAT recorder once it
has been lost. Roland Corporation assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.
● Use a reasonable amount of care when using the
unit’s buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when
using its jacks and connectors. Rough handling can
lead to malfunctions.
● Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.
● A small amount of noise may be heard from the dis-
play during normal operation.
● 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.
● A small amount of heat will radiate from the unit
during normal operation.
● To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the
unit’s volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer
to use headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about those around you (especially when it
is late at night).
● When you need to transport the unit, package it in
the box (including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise, you will need to use equivalent
packaging materials.
If an internal IDE hard disk (HDP88 series) is
installed, then remove the hard disk. Place the hard
disk in its carton and set this in the specified place
inside the VS-880EX shipping carton. The unit is
now ready to be transported. Moving the VS-880EX
with the hard disk installed may result in loss of
song data or damage to the hard disk.
IMPORTANT NOTES
5
Handling the Disk Drive
For details on hard disk handling, refer also to the
instructions that accompanied your hard disk.
● Before performing any of the following actions, be
sure to perform the shutdown procedure. Failure to
do so may result in loss of song data or damage to
the hard disk.
• Turning off the power of the VS-880EX
• Turning off the power of the Zip drive connected
with SCSI connector
• Removing a disk from a Zip drive connected with
SCSI connector
Shutdown (Appendices p. 124)
When the VS-880EX MIDI/DISK indicator or Zip
drive status indicator is lit, it means that data is being
written to or from the hard disk. If you are using a Zip
drive, confirm that this indicator is not lit before
removing disks.
● While using the VS-880EX, be careful not to subject
the unit to vibration or shock, and avoid moving the
unit while the power is turned on.
● Install the unit on a solid, level surface in an area
free from vibration. If the unit must be installed at
an angle, be sure the installation does not exceed
the permissible range.
● Avoid using the unit immediately after it has been
moved to a location with a level of humidity that is
greatly different than its former location. Rapid
changes in the environment can cause condensation
to form inside the drive, which will adversely affect
the operation of the drive and/or damage removable disks. When the unit has been moved, allow it
to become accustomed to the new environment
(allow a few hours) before operating it.
Concerning Copyright
The law prohibits the unauthorized recording, public
performance, broadcast, sale, or distribution etc. of a
work (CD recording, video recording, broadcast, etc.)
whose copyright is owned by a third party.
Roland will take no responsibility for any infringement of copyright that you may commit in using the
VS-880EX.
About SCMS
The VS-880EX does not implement SCMS. This design
decision was made with the intent that SCMS should
not restrict the creation of original compositions which
do not violate copyright law. Do not use this device in
a way which would infringe on copyrights held by
another.
SCMS (Appendices p. 124)
Disclaimer of Liability
Roland will take no responsibility for any direct damages, consequential damages, or any other damages
which may result from your use of the VS-880EX.
These damages may include but are not limited to the
following events which can occur when using the VS880EX.
● Any loss of profit that may occur to you.
● Permanent loss of your music or data.
● Inability to continue using the VS-880EX itself or a
connected device.
About the License Agreement
The VS-880EX and its CD-R capability are designed to
allow you to reproduce material to which you have
copyright, or material which the copyright owner has
granted you permission to copy. Accordingly, reproduction of music CDs or other copyrighted material
without the permission of the copyright owner, other
than for your own personal use and enjoyment (private use) constitutes copyright infringement, which
may incur penalties. Consult a copyright specialist or
special publications for more detailed information on
obtaining such permission from copyright holders.
IMPORTANT NOTES
6
Preparations .......................................................................... 12
About the Package Contents ...................................................................................... 12
Main Features ............................................................................................................. 12
Front and Rear Panels .......................................................... 14
Mixer Section .............................................................................................................. 14
Recorder Section ........................................................................................................ 16
Display section ............................................................................................................ 18
Rear Panel .................................................................................................................. 19
Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology) ........ 21
Saving and Managing Data ......................................................................................... 21
Managing Disk Contents (Partitioning) ......................................................................... 21
The Location Where a Performance is Recorded (Song) ............................................. 22
Sources, Tracks, and Channels ........................................................................................ 22
About Events ...................................................................................................................... 23
Mixer Section .............................................................................................................. 24
Signal Flow (Buses) ........................................................................................................... 24
Input Mixer ......................................................................................................................... 26
Track Mixer ......................................................................................................................... 27
Effect Return Mixer ........................................................................................................... 27
Switching the Fader Functions ........................................................................................ 28
Master Block ....................................................................................................................... 28
Recorder Section ........................................................................................................ 28
Differences with a Tape-Type MTR ................................................................................ 28
Track Minutes and Recording Time ............................................................................... 29
Auxiliary Tracks for Each Track ...................................................................................... 30
Effects Section ............................................................................................................ 31
About the Effect Expansion Board .................................................................................. 31
Connecting Effects .............................................................................................................31
Chapter 2 Basic Operation ................................................... 32
Before You Begin ........................................................................................................ 32
Turning On the Power ...................................................................................................... 32
If You Have Trouble Understanding Displays or Operations .................................... 32
Before You Finish Operations ..................................................................................... 32
Saving the Performance to Disk (Song Store) ................................................................ 32
Turning Off the Power ...................................................................................................... 33
Restarting ............................................................................................................................ 33
Basic Operations on the VS-880EX ............................................................................ 34
Display Each of the Condition Menus ............................................................................ 34
Selecting Pages Contained in Functions and Settings .................................................. 34
Select the Setting You Want to Change .......................................................................... 35
Change the Settings Values .............................................................................................. 35
Execute the Operation ....................................................................................................... 35
Switching Track Conditions ......................................................................................... 35
Changing the Current Time ......................................................................................... 36
Moving in Frame Units ..................................................................................................... 36
Moving in Measure/Beat Units ....................................................................................... 36
Moving to the Beginning or End of the Performance .................................................. 36
Storing a Time Location .............................................................................................. 36
Using the Locator ............................................................................................................... 37
Using Markers .................................................................................................................... 38
Chapter 3 Multi-Track Recording ......................................... 40
Recording .................................................................................................................... 40
Items Necessary for Multi-Track Recording .................................................................. 40
Creating a New Song (Song New) .................................................................................. 40
CONTENTS
7
General Course of the Recording Process ................................................................. 41
Connecting Instruments .............................................................................................. 41
Recording to the Tracks .............................................................................................. 42
Saving a Recorded Performance (Song Store) ........................................................... 43
Recording Over a Portion of a Performance (Punch-In/Punch-Out) ........................... 44
Using the RECORD Button (Manual Punch-In 1) ......................................................... 44
Using the Foot switch (Manual Punch-In 2) .................................................................. 44
Specifying Beforehand the Location for Rerecording (Auto Punch-In) .................... 45
Repeatedly Recording Over the Same Area (Loop Recording) .................................. 47
Recording to Other Tracks (Overdubbing) .................................................................. 49
Recording on V-Track 2 .................................................................................................... 49
Using Effects ............................................................................................................... 50
Applying Effects to the Playback .................................................................................... 50
Applying Effects While Recording (Send/Return) ...................................................... 51
Applying Effects While Recording (Insert) .................................................................... 52
Recording Digital Signals ............................................................................................ 55
Items Necessary for Digital Recording ........................................................................... 55
Make the Digital Connections ......................................................................................... 55
Match the Sample Rates .................................................................................................... 55
Select the Master Clock ..................................................................................................... 56
Select an Input Source ....................................................................................................... 56
Adjusting the Tone (Equalizer) .................................................................................... 57
Using the 3-Band Equalizer .............................................................................................. 57
Adjusting the Equalizer .................................................................................................... 57
Combining the Contents of Tracks (Track Bouncing) ................................................. 60
Applying Reverb While Track Bouncing ....................................................................... 61
Creating a Master Tape .............................................................................................. 63
To Record to a Cassette Tape ........................................................................................... 63
Recording with DAT and MD Recorders ....................................................................... 63
Protecting Songs (Song Protect) ................................................................................. 64
Protecting Performances ................................................................................................... 65
To Remove Song Protect ................................................................................................... 65
Selecting a Song (Song Select) .................................................................................. 65
Chapter 4 Using the Internal Effects ................................... 66
Composition of the Effects .......................................................................................... 66
Connecting the Effects ................................................................................................ 66
Changing the Source Sound Itself (Insert) ..................................................................... 66
Inserting with Input and Track Channels ...................................................................... 67
Inserting an Effect into the Master Block ....................................................................... 67
Adding the Sound with the Effect Applied to the Direct Sound (Send/Return) ..... 68
Selecting Effects (Patch) ............................................................................................. 70
Creating New Effects Sounds ..................................................................................... 71
When Saving to User Patches .......................................................................................... 72
When Storing to a Scene ................................................................................................... 72
Chapter 5 Storing Mixer Settings ......................................... 73
Recording the Current Condition of the Mixer (Scene) ............................................... 73
Making Mixer Settings Automatically(EZ Routing) ...................................................... 74
Recalling Recording Settings (Recording/Template) .................................................. 75
Recalling Track Bouncing Settings (Bouncing/Template) .......................................... 75
Recalling Mixdown Settings (Mixdown/Template) .................................................... 76
Storing Recording Settings (Recording/Step Edit) ...................................................... 77
Storing Track Bouncing Settings (Bouncing/Step Edit) .............................................. 81
Storing Mixdown Settings (Mixdown/Step Edit) ........................................................ 84
Saving the Current Routing (User Routing) .................................................................. 87
Recalling User Routing ..................................................................................................... 87
Deleting User Routings ..................................................................................................... 87
CONTENTS
8
Chapter 6 Editing a Recorded Performance (Track Editing) ... 88
About Editing Operations ............................................................................................ 88
Track Edit .................................................................................................................... 88
About the Bar Display ....................................................................................................... 88
Repeating Performance Data (Track Copy) ................................................................... 89
Moving Performance Data (Track Move) ...................................................................... 91
Exchanging Performance Data Between Tracks (Track Exchange) ............................ 92
Inserting a Blank Space Into Performance Data (Track Insert) ................................... 93
Deleting Performance Data (Track Cut) ......................................................................... 94
Erasing Performance Data (Track Erase) ....................................................................... 95
Modifying the Playback Time of the Performance Data
(Time Compression/Expansion) ..... 96
Chapter 7 Use with a Zip Drive ............................................ 99
Before You Use a Zip Drive ........................................................................................ 99
Handling the Zip Drive .................................................................................................... 99
Handling Zip Disks ........................................................................................................... 99
Connecting the Zip Drive ............................................................................................. 99
Initializing the Disk (Drive Initialize) ........................................................................... 100
Checking Disk Reliability ............................................................................................... 101
Saving Performance Data to a Zip Drive (Song Copy) ............................................. 102
Saving a Song to a Single Disk (Playable) ................................................................ 103
To Load Data from Disks (Drive Select) .................................................................... 104
When You Cannot Save a Song to a Single Disk (Archives) .................................... 105
Saving to Disks (Store) .................................................................................................... 105
Loading Data From Disks (Extract) .............................................................................. 106
About power-save mode ........................................................................................... 106
Chapter 8 Use with a CD-RW Drive .................................... 107
Before You Use a CD-RW Drive ............................................................................... 107
Handling the CD-RW Drive ........................................................................................... 107
Handling CD-RW Discs .................................................................................................. 107
Connecting the CD-RW Drive ................................................................................... 107
Creating an Audio CD ............................................................................................... 108
Items Necessary for Creating an Audio CD ................................................................ 108
Creating a Master Data ................................................................................................... 108
Writing Songs to CD-R Discs ......................................................................................... 109
Auditioning (Test Listening) Songs Written to CDs (CD Player Function) ............ 110
Writing Additional Songs to the Disc ........................................................................... 111
Arranging and Writing Multiple Songs to Disc .......................................................... 111
Writing the Song Data (Finalize) ................................................................................... 112
Arranging and Writing Songs and Song Data ............................................................ 113
Saving Songs to CD-RW Discs (CD-R Backup) ....................................................... 113
Items Necessary for CD-R Backup ................................................................................ 114
Saving Songs to CD-RW Discs ....................................................................................... 114
Loading Songs From CD-RW Discs .............................................................................. 115
How to Erase the Data in the CD-RW Disc ................................................................. 115
Chapter 9 Use with MIDI Devices ....................................... 116
Synchronizing with MIDI Sequencers ....................................................................... 116
Items Necessary for Synchronization ........................................................................... 116
Master and Slave .............................................................................................................. 116
Using MTC ....................................................................................................................... 116
Synchronization with the VS-880EX as the Reference (Master) ............................... 117
Synchronization with the MIDI Sequencer as the Reference (Slave) ....................... 118
Synchronizing with an External MIDI Device ............................................................ 119
Using the Sync Track (Master) ....................................................................................... 119
Using the Tempo Map (Master) .................................................................................... 121
CONTENTS
9
Various Operations Related to Synchronized Operation .......................................... 123
Use with a MIDI Controller ........................................................................................ 126
Switching Track Status ................................................................................................... 126
Switching Scenes .............................................................................................................. 127
Switching Effects .............................................................................................................. 127
Adjusting Effects .............................................................................................................. 127
Chapter 10 Use with a DAT Recorder (DAT Backup) ........ 128
Before Backing Up with DAT ..................................................................................... 128
Items Necessary for DAT Backup ............................................................................. 128
About the Devices Used in DAT Backup ..................................................................... 128
Saving Song Data to a DAT Recorder (Backup) ....................................................... 129
Loading Performance Data from a DAT Recorder (Recover) ................................... 131
When Canceling the Recover Operation ...................................................................... 132
Checking Names of Saved Performance Data (Name) ............................................ 133
Checking the Recording Condition of Saved Performance Data (Verify) .................. 134
Chapter 11 Compatibility .................................................... 136
Disk Compatibility ...................................................................................................... 136
VS-880 → VS-880EX ........................................................................................................ 136
VS-880EX → VS-880 ........................................................................................................ 136
VS-1680 → VS-880EX ...................................................................................................... 136
VS-880EX → VS-1680 ...................................................................................................... 137
VS-840 ↔ VS-880EX ........................................................................................................ 137
Song Data Compatibility ............................................................................................ 137
Loading VS-880 Performance Data into the VS-880EX (Song Import) .................... 137
Converting VS-880EX Song Data for Use with the VS-880 (Song Export) .............. 138
Chapter 12 Other Convenient Functions .......................... 140
Previewing Techniques (Preview) ............................................................................. 140
Using [TO] [FROM] ......................................................................................................... 140
Using [SCRUB] ................................................................................................................. 141
Recalling a Specific Location (Jump) ........................................................................ 142
Recording Mixer Settings (Auto Mix) ......................................................................... 142
Preparations for Auto Mix ............................................................................................. 143
Recording the Mixer Settings, Method 1 (Snapshot) .................................................. 143
Recording the Mixer Settings, Method 2 (Gradation) ................................................ 144
Recording Fader Operations (Realtime) ....................................................................... 144
If You Don’t Want to Record Fader Settings (Mask Fader) ....................................... 145
Playing Back the Auto Mix ............................................................................................. 145
Disabling Auto Mix Only on Specified Channels ....................................................... 145
Disabling Auto Mix on All Channels ........................................................................... 146
Undoing Recordings and Edits (Undo) ...................................................................... 146
Recording and Editing Operations Which Can Be Undone (Undo)......................... 147
Canceling the Last-Performed Undo (Redo) ............................................................... 147
Canceling Only the Very Last-Performed Operation ................................................. 147
Listening Only to a Specific Channel (Solo/Mute) ..................................................... 148
Listening Only to a Specific Channel ............................................................................ 148
Muting Only to a Specific Channel ............................................................................... 148
Simultaneously Adjusting a Stereo Source (Channel Link) ....................................... 149
Adjusting the Faders ....................................................................................................... 149
Adjusting the Pan ............................................................................................................ 150
Linking Only the Faders (Fader Link) .......................................................................... 151
Mixing In a Stereo Source (Stereo In) ....................................................................... 152
Changing the Pitch During Playback (Vari-Pitch) ...................................................... 152
Record/Playback Tracks When Using Vari-Pitch ...................................................... 153
Directly Inputting Numeric Characters ...................................................................... 153
Selecting the Method for Numeric Input ..................................................................... 153
CONTENTS
10
Sounding the Metronome .......................................................................................... 154
Using an External MIDI Sound Source to Play the Metronome ............................... 155
When the Disk Has Little Remaining Space ............................................................. 156
Deleting Only Unneeded Performance Data (Song Optimize) ................................. 156
Deleting One Song of Performance Data (Song Erase) .............................................. 157
Changing the Name of Performance Data (Song Name) .......................................... 157
Adjusting the Levels for Each Track .......................................................................... 157
When Using Balanced Inputs .................................................................................... 158
Determining Output ................................................................................................... 158
MASTER Jacks ................................................................................................................. 158
AUX Jacks ......................................................................................................................... 159
DIGITAL OUT Connectors ............................................................................................ 159
DIRECT OUT ................................................................................................................... 160
Confirming That a Drive is Not Damaged (Drive Check) .......................................... 160
Chapter 13 Making Global Settings and Checking Conditions .. 163
Switching the Display Content .................................................................................. 163
Pre Level ........................................................................................................................... 163
Post Level .......................................................................................................................... 163
Play List ............................................................................................................................. 163
Feder/Pan ......................................................................................................................... 163
Checking the Size of a Recorded Performance ........................................................ 164
System Settings for Each Song ................................................................................ 164
Having the Volume Change as Soon as the Faders are Moved ................................ 164
Holding Level Meter Peaks ............................................................................................ 164
Checking the Remaining Disk Space ............................................................................ 165
When Using the Foot Switch .......................................................................................... 165
Overall Settings for the VS-880EX ............................................................................ 166
Holding the function of [SHIFT] (Shift Lock) .............................................................. 166
Displaying Measures and Beats .................................................................................... 166
Adjusting the Button Sensitivity ................................................................................... 167
Changing the VS-880EX’s SCSI ID Number ................................................................ 167
When There Is No Hard Disk Installed ........................................................................ 167
Changing at the Level at Which the Peak Indicator Lights ....................................... 168
Overall Settings for Playback and Recording ............................................................ 168
Constantly Monitoring the Input Source ..................................................................... 168
Stopping Automatically .................................................................................................. 168
If Noise Between Segments is Obtrusive ..................................................................... 169
Resetting Mixer and System Settings to Their Original State ................................... 169
Chapter 14 Takein Advantages of the VS-880EX (idea and examples) 170
Synchronizing the Operations of Two VS-880EX Units ............................................ 170
Settings for the Master VS-880EX .................................................................................. 170
Settings for the Slave VS-880EX .................................................................................... 172
Synchronizing with Cakewalk Pro Audio (MMC) ....................................................... 173
Settings for the VS-880EX ............................................................................................... 174
Settings for Cakewalk Pro Audio .................................................................................. 175
Making Digital Connections with Cakewalk ............................................................... 177
Using an External MIDI Device to Adjust the Mixer (Compu Mix) ............................. 180
The Correspondence Between MIDI Channels and Controller Numbers .............. 181
Preparations for Compu Mix ......................................................................................... 182
Recording with Compu Mix .......................................................................................... 183
To Have the Fader Movements Ignored ...................................................................... 183
Synchronizing with Video Equipment ........................................................................ 184
Using External Effects Devices ................................................................................. 185
CONTENTS
11
About the Package Contents
The following items are included with the VS-880EX.
Please check to make sure you have all the items.
• VS-880EX
• AC cord
• Quick Start
• Owner’s Manual (this manual)
• Appendices
Main Features
The Latest in Compact Home Studio
Environments
The VS-880EX retains all of the features of Roland’s
VS-880 workstation; a revolution in the world of the
home studio, with the disk recorder, digital mixer, and
multi effects systematically and more organically integrated. From when you start picking mics to when
you actually record to mixdown, adding effects, and
on to creating the master data for playing through a
PA or mastering on a CD, you can get a handle on
every aspect of the recording process with the VS880EX in your home studio.
Disk Recorder Section
The digital disk recorder section provides eight playback tracks, and allows eight tracks to be recorded
simultaneously. Each track has eight supplementary
tracks (V-tracks), and each song can have two sets of
these 64 tracks (8 tracks x 8 V-tracks). This means that
a song can have a total of 128 tracks (64 V-tracks x 2
banks), giving you flexibility when you need to record
multiple takes, or need a location for temporary storage for editing.
You can instantly find the location of sections in a
song you want to hear repeatedly or places that you
wish to record over (Locator) by placing marks at such
points (Marker). These Markers are recalled by simple
procedure, and you will never wait for any rewinding
or fast-forwarding time.
The VS-880EX uses “non-destructive editing.” This
allows you to cancel and recover up to 999 previous
recording and editing operations (Undo/Redo).
Digital Mixer Section
You can store all mixer settings, including fader levels,
pan, and effects. Stored settings can be recalled very
simply, making it convenient in adjusting balances
during mixdown and comparing mixes with effects.
Changes in settings over time, such as fader levels and
pan, can also be stored (Auto Mix), so you can realize
easy fade-ins and fade-outs in your mixes.
You can easily make the most appropriate mixer condition settings, including those for recording, track
bouncing, and mixdown (EZ Routing).
Effects Section
A Effect is built in. This allows you to use up to two
stereo effects when the VS-880 EX is used by itself.
The effect provides not only basic effects such as
reverb and delay, but also effects ideal for vocals and
guitar (such as guitar amp simulator) and even special
effects such as RSS. The way in which each of these
effects are organized by the 34 “algorithms” so that
you can create new sounds easily.
The effect provides 210 read only effects setting (Preset
Patches) which designed for various uses. In addition,
the effect provides 100 read and write effects setting
(User Patches) for changing and saving that contents.
You can instantly switch between a variety of effects
simply by selecting a patch.
Simple Operation
The VS-880EX can be operated as easily as conventional multi-track recorders. You will be able to enjoy the
advantages of home studio from the day that you purchase it.
The custom LCD screen provides visual confirmation
of many settings at once. In particular, the bar display
provides a graphical indication of the level meter, pan
and fader settings, and the track record status.
The LCD screen is backlit and inclined, so it is easy to
read when used on stage or wherever high visibility is
required.
Preparations
12
Connectivity
There are six sets of balanced input jacks, handling a
wide input sensitivity range, from line level (+4 dBu)
to mic level (-50 dBu).
Besides the RCA phono type (stereo) MASTER jacks,
the (mono) AUX A and AUX B jacks are provided.
The VS-880EX provides both coaxial and optical digital I/O connectors. With these, you can make digital
connections with popular consumer electronic devices
such as CD players, DAT recorders, MD recorders,
and so on.
A SCSI connector (DB-25 type) is also provided, allowing you to connect to external SCSI devices such as the
Zip drive and the CD-R drive.
MIDI IN and MIDI OUT/THRU connectors are also
provided. You can synchronize the VS-880EX with an
external MIDI sequencer, use the MIDI sequencer to
control the VS-880EX’s mixer, sound an external MIDI
sound generator with the metronome, and more.
Besides tracks for recording audio signals, the VS880EX has sync track for storing MIDI clock message.
You can even synchronize MIDI sequencers that are
not compatible with MTC (MIDI Time Code) or MMC
(MIDI Machine Control).
Substantial Options
Internal Hard Disk (desinated by Roland):
An internal 2.5-inch IDE hard disk. Having this internal hard disk installed makes the VS-880EX system
compact and easy to transport. Furthermore, there is
no need to make complex settings and no problems
with faulty connections (unlike those which could
occur when an external disk is used). We recommend
that you install an internal hard disk when using the
VS-880EX.
* For simultaneous recording or playback of a number of
tracks, for getting more out of the available hard disk
space, and in order to get the fullest performance in general from the VS-880EX, we recommend using the 2.1
GB or larger Hard Disk.
CD-R Drive (designated by Roland):
A CD-R drive connected with a SCSI connector. With
this drive, you can write songs created on the VS880EX as well as create your own original audio CDs.
Additionally, you can use it for backing up songs to
CD-R discs.
SI-80S:
This is a video/MIDI sync interface for connection to
the MIDI connector. VS-880EX operations such as
play/stop/forward can be synchronized from a video
device with a LANC connector.
Preparations
13
Mixer Section
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
Front and Rear Panels
14
1. PEAK Indicators
These indicators allow you to confirm the sound level
input at the input jacks (1–6). They help you to determine the correct input level when adjusting the
INPUT knobs. You will need to specify the level at
which the indicators light beforehand (p. 61). The indicators are set at the factory to -6 dB.
2. INPUT Knobs
These knobs adjust the sensitivity of the input jacks
(1–6). Turn a knob fully to the right for mic level (-50
dBu), and fully to the left for line level (+4 dBu).
3. PAN Knobs
These knobs adjust the pan (location in the stereo output) of each channel.
4. SELECT/CH EDIT (Select/Channel
Edit) buttons
Use these buttons when you wish to make settings for
a mixer channel. The names of the parameter groups
that can be set for each channel are printed below CH
EDIT. To directly specify a particular group, you can
hold down [SHIFT] and press the button for that
group name.
When editing a song, use these buttons to select tracks
for editing.
5. STATUS Buttons
These buttons switch the status of each track. The current status is shown by the button indicator.
SOURCE (orange):
The input source or track assigned to the channel is
being output.
REC (blinking red):
Recording is selected for the track assigned to the
channel. During playback, the track data is normally output.
REC (blinking red and orange):
Recording is selected for the track assigned to the
channel. During playback, you will be able to listen
to the source.
PLAY (green):
The track assigned to the channel will playback.
OFF (off):
The channel is muted (silent).
When pressed in combination with the SELECT/CH
EDIT button, this selects the source or track to be
assigned to a track for recording.
6. Channel Faders
Use these faders to adjust the volume level of each
channel or track.
7. PHONES Knob
This knob adjusts the volume of the headphones.
8. AUX SEND knob
This knob adjusts the output level of the AUX SEND
jacks.
9. EZ ROUTING/SOLO Button
This button opens the EZ Routing screen.
In conjunction with [SHIFT], this switches the Solo
function on/off.
10. FADER/EDIT Button
Pressing this button alternately assigns each channel’s
input mixer, track mixer and effect return mixer to the
fader for that channel. The button indicator shows the
current status.
INPUT (orange): Input Mixer
TRACK (green): Track Mixer
RETURN (red): Effect Return Mixer
In conjunction with [SHIFT], this accesses the Master
Block setting page.
11. Master Fader
Use this fader to adjust the overall output level.
Preparations
15
Recorder Section
1
3
4
2
5
7
9
13
11
6
8
10
12
Preparations
16
1. EDIT CONDITION Buttons
The functions and parameters of the VS-880EX are
organized within these buttons. To use a desired operation, press the appropriate button.
2. LOCATOR Button
Pressing this button allows you to store or recall
Locators and Markers or to store or recall Scenes (the
mixer settings).
[LOC1/5]–[LOC4/8]: This button selects Locators
and Scenes.
[CLEAR]: This button deletes Locators,
Markers, and Scenes.
[SCENE]: This is pressed when storing,
recalling, and deleting Scenes.
[PREVIOUS]: This button recalls the previous
Marker.
[NEXT]: This button recalls the next Marker.
[TAP]: This button is pressed to set
Markers.
[LOOP]:
This button turns Loop Recording on
and off. Pressed with the
[LOC1/5]–[LOC4/8] buttons, it specifies the range to be recorded in Loop
Recording.
[AUTO PUNCH]: This button turns Auto
Punch-In Recording on and
off. Pressed with the
[LOC1/5]–[LOC4/8] buttons, it specifies the range to
be recorded in Auto PunchIn Recording.
3. NUMERICS Button
Press this when you want to use the LOCATOR button
for 10-key entry of Western numerals.
4. Transport Control Buttons
These buttons are used to operate the recorder.
[ZERO]: This returns the current time to
“00h00m00s00” (zero return).
[REW]: The current time is moved back only
while this button is held down. This
corresponds to the rewind button on a
tape recorder.
[FF]: While the button is held down, the
current time is moved forward. This
corresponds to the fast-forward button
on a tape recorder.
[STOP]: Stops recording or playback of the
song.
[PLAY]: Starts recording or playback from the
current time.
[REC]: Press this button to record a song.
5. TIME/VALUE Dial
In normal (playback) status, this dial adjusts the time
of playback.
This is used to change the settings values for each
parameter when settings are changed.
6. PLAY (DISPLAY) Button
Press this button to return to the screen that appears
when the VS-880EX is turned on (normal playback status).
In conjunction with [SHIFT], this switches the item
shown in the bar display.
7. PARAMETER Buttons
Use these buttons to switch the parameter display.
8. SHIFT Button
This button is pressed in conjunction with other buttons to access additional functions of those buttons.
9. CURSOR Buttons
Normally (i.e. in Play Condition), this dial is used to
move the current time. When making settings (i.e. in
Edit Condition), this dial is used to modify parameter
values.
When a YES/NO response is required during an operation, use these button to reply.
[NO (CANCEL)]: This is pressed to cancel the cur-
rent operation or exit the current screen.
[YES (ENTER)]: This is pressed to execute the
current operation or select the
current screen.
10. AUTOMIX (VARI PITCH) Button
This button switches the Auto Mix function on and off.
The button indicator lights when Auto Mix is on.
In conjunction with [SHIFT], this switches the Varipitch function on/off.
11. MIDI/DISK Indicator
This indicator lights green when MIDI messages are
being received, and red when data is being written or
read on the disk drive. If both of these are occurring,
the indicator lights orange.
12. UNDO (REDO) Button
Press this button to cancel a recording or editing step
that you have made (Undo function). Pressed with
[SHIFT], this button cancels the last performed Undo
function (Redo function).
13. PREVIEW Button
Press this button to use the Preview function that
plays back a specific length before and after the current location.
Preparations
17
Display section
1 2 3
9
4 5
6
8
7
Preparations
18
1. CONDITION
This indicates the current condition.
PLY: Normal status (Play condition).
INn: Change the input mixer settings
(n=1–8, a–d).
TRn: Change the track mixer settings
(n=1–8 to a–d).
RTN: Change the return mixer settings.
MST: Change the master block settings.
SNG: Song edit
LOC: Locator edit
TRK: Track edit
FX: Effect edit
SYS: System edit
* If Song Protect (p.64) is turned on, the Play Condition
display will be “Ply.”
* The input/track mixer display will indicate 1–8 for chan-
nels whose Channel Link is OFF, and a–d for channels
which are turned ON.
2. MARKER # (marker number)
This shows the marker number for the current time. If
a mark point has not been assigned to the current
time, the closest marker number located before the
current time will be shown.
3. TIME
The current time of the song is displayed as SMPTE
time code.
SMPTE Time Code (Appendices p. 124)
4. MEASURE
This shows the current measure of the song.
5. BEAT
This shows the current beat of the song.
6. SYNC MODE
This indicates the current sync mode (method of synchronization).
7. SCENE
This shows the currently used scene number (mixer
setting). An asterisk “✱” shown at the beginning of the
scene number indicates that the current mixer settings
have been modified since the scene was recalled.
8. REMAINING TIME
This shows the remaining length of time available for
recording.
9. Bar display
In normal condition, the item selected by [DISPLAY
(PLAY)] are shown graphically. While you are making
a setting, data for the setting being made is displayed
graphically.
Rear Panel
1
2 3 4 5
Preparations
19
1. POWER Switch
This switch turns power of the VS-880EX on and off.
2. AC IN (AC Inlet)
Connect the included power cable here.
3. SCSI Connector
This is a DB-25 type SCSI connector for connecting
disk drives such as a Zip disk drive or a CD-R drive.
4. MIDI Connectors (IN, OUT/THRU)
External MIDI devices (MIDI controllers, MIDI
sequencers, etc.) can be connected here.
IN: This connector receives MIDI mes-
sages. Connect it to the MIDI OUT
connector of the external MIDI
device.
OUT/THRU: This connector can be used either as
a MIDI OUT or as a MIDI THRU
connector. With the factory settings,
it will function as a MIDI OUT connector, which means it is set to
transmit MIDI messages.
5. DIGITAL Connectors
The VS-880EX features both coaxial and optical digital
I/O connectors (conforming to S/P DIF).
IN: This inputs a digital audio signal
(stereo). You can select either the
coaxial input connection or the optical connection.
OUT: This outputs a digital audio signal
(stereo). Here you can use both the
coaxial connector and the optical
connector simultaneously, and each
can carry a different signal.
S/P DIF (Appendices p. 124)
* To record a digital audio signal, it is not sufficient to sim-
ply connect a digital audio device to the DIGITAL IN
connector. When inputting a digital audio signal, refer to
“Recording Digital Signals” (p. 55).
* It is not able to input or output analog audio signals.
6 7 118
9 10
Preparations
20
6. FOOT SWITCH Jack
An optional foot switch (such as the DP-2 or the BOSS
FS-5U) can be connected here when you want to control recorder operations, mark point settings, and
punch in/out operations, and so on with a foot switch.
With the factory settings, a foot switch is set to start
and stop the recorder.
7. PHONES Jack
An optional set of headphones can be connected here.
The PHONES jack outputs the same sound as the
MONITOR jack.
8. MASTER Jacks (L, R)
9. AUX SEND Jack A
10. AUX SEND Jack B
These are output jacks for analog audio signals (RCA
phono type).
With the factory settings, all signals are output from
the MASTER OUT jacks, and there is no output from
the AUX (A and B) SEND jacks. The output is determined by the block settings of the mixer’s master sec-
tion and the settings of each channel.
11. INPUT Jacks (1–6)
These are input jacks for analog audio signals. These
are balanced phone jacks, the input sensitivity of each
jack is adjusted by the INPUT knobs on the top panel.
This chapter explains basic concepts, internal structure, and basic operation that you will need to know in
order to operate the VS-880EX. Please read this chapter thoroughly to gain a better understanding of the
VS-880EX.
Saving and Managing Data
Managing Disk Contents (Partitioning)
The VS-880EX saves all of the data such as — performance data, mixing data, system data, etc. — on the
disk drive. Thus, it cannot operate without either having an internal disk or being connected to a Zip drive
with a SCSI connector. Furthermore, the hard disk or
Zip drive used by the VS-880EX cannot be used by
another device.
The VS-880EX is able to manage which 500 MB or 1000
MB of disk space at once. If you use a disk drive with a
capacity that is larger than this, you will need to
divide it into two or more.
Each of these area is refered as the “partition.” Up to 4
partitions can be created in one disk drive. For creating songs in a enough space, we recommend you to
set the partitions to 1000 MB.
Ex. 1: When the disk drive is 810 MB, and the parti-
tion size is 1000 MB.
Ex. 2: When the disk drive is 1.4 GB, and the parti-
tion size is 1000 MB.
Ex. 3: When the disk drive is 2.1 GB, and the parti-
tion size is 500 MB.
Ex. 4: When the disk drive is 2.1 GB, and the parti-
tion size is 1000 MB.
Each partition on the VS-880EX’s disk drive is treated
as an independent drive, with each partition automatically given a partition number (0–3). When a single
hard disk has multiple partitions, you can specify
which partition of which drive will be used. This disk
drive partition currently used is referred to as the cur-
rent drive.
Partition
(810MB)
Disk Drive
(810MB)
Partition 0
(1000MB)
Partition 1
(400MB)
Disk Drive
(1.4GB)
Partition 2
(500MB)
unusable
(100MB)
Partition 0
(500MB)
Partition 3
(500MB)
Partition 1
(500MB)
Disk Drive
(2.1GB)
Partition 2
(100MB)
Partition 0
(1000MB)
Partition 1
(1000MB)
Disk Drive
(2.1GB)
Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology)
21
Chapter 1
Specify the Disk Which will be Used
for Recording/Playback (Drive Select)
1. Press [SYSTEM] several times until “SYS Drive
Select” appears in the display.
2. Press [YES].
3. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to select the desired
disk drive. The internal hard disk is shown as
“IDE:*” and external disk drives are shown as
“SC0:*–SC7:*” (the number is the SCSI ID number).
The number following each disk drive name is the
partition number. For example if you wish to select
internal hard disk partition 1, you would select
“IDE:1.”
4. Press [YES].
A confirmation message appears on the screen.
5. Press [YES].
“STORE Current?” (Store the current song?) appears
in the display.
6. If you wish to save the current song, press [YES]; if
not, then press [NO]. If you have selected a demo
song, then press [NO].
7. After you have switched the current drive, return
to Play condition.
* If you wish to use hard disks or song data on both the VS-
880EX and the VS-880/840/1680, because of factors such
as differing partition sizes and numbers of tracks, there
will be limitations as to what you can do. For more
detailed information, please see “Compatibility” (p. 136).
* The VS-880EX accepts installation of Internal hard disks
(desinated by Roland). For simultaneous recording or
playback of a number of tracks, for getting more out of the
available hard disk space, and in order to get the fullest
performance in general from the VS-880EX, we recom-
mend using the 2.1 GB or larger Internal Hard
Disk.
The Location Where a Performance is
Recorded (Song)
The location where a performance data is recorded is
refered to as the song. For example on a cassette MTR,
this would correspond to cassette tape. Up to 200
songs can be created in each partition. Normally, you
should set the partition size at 1000 MB. When dealing
with large numbers of songs at the same time, setting
the partition size to 500 MB is recommended. The song
currently being recorded, played back, or edited is
referred to as the current song. Following data are
included in a song.
• All data recorded on V-tracks
• MIDI clocks of the sync track
• Points specified within songs (locator, marker,
punch-in/out points, loop-in/out points) (p. 36)
• Scenes (mixer settings)
• Vari Pitch settings (p. 152)
• System settings (system, MIDI, disk, sync, Scene)
(p. 164)
• Effect settings
• Auto Mix Data
Sources, Tracks, and Channels
On the VS-880EX, the recorder section and mixer section use term sources, tracks, and channels. These
terms may appear similar to each other, and will be
confusing unless their differences are clarified.
Source: A signal which is input to the mixer sec-
tion or recorded in the recorder section.
On the VS-880EX, this term refers in particular to the signals of the analog input
jacks (1–6) and the digital in connector.
Track: A signal that is being input to or output
from the recorder section. It also refers to
the location of a signal that is being
recorded onto or played back from the
hard disk.
Channel: A signal that is being input to or output
from the mixer section. This term refers in
particular to the faders and buttons of the
mixer section on the top panel.
Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology)
22
About Events
The smallest unit of memory used by the VS-880EX to
store recorded results on disk is called an event. A
newly created song is provided approximately 12,800
events.
For each track, one recording pass uses two events.
Operations such as punch-in/out or track copy also
use up events. The number of events that are used up
will fluctuate in a complex way. For example, auto
mix (p. 142) uses up 5 events for each Marker.
Even when your disk has ample free space, one song
can use up all the available events, in which case no
more data could be recorded to the song.
Remaining number of Events can be saved with the
following procedures. Please try the most appropriate
one with your situation.
● Execute Song Store (p. 32)
Please Execute Song Store if in UNDO condition
([UNDO] indicator is lit.). Events served for REDO
will be released. But please note that you cannot cancel (REDO) the last UNDO if you once execute STORE.
● Execute Song Optimize (p. 156)
Please execute Song Optimize if you have done a lot of
Punch In recording. Events served for unnecessary
audio data will be released. But please note that you
can only do single level UNDO.
● Erase AutoMix data (p. 146)
If you have recorded AutoMix data, erase unnecessary
data. Events served for unnecessary AutoMix data will
be released.
Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology)
23
Chapter 1
Mixer Section
The digital mixer specifies input or output status of the recorder section. The VS880EX contains an Input Mixer located before the recorder section, a Track
Mixer located after the recorder section, an Effect Return Mixer which controls
the effect return and Stereo In (p. 152), and a Master Block which determines
the output jacks from which the signal of each mixer will be output.
* For more detailed information about the mixer section, please refer to the “Mixer
Section Block Diagram” (Appendices p. 120).
Signal Flow (Buses)
On the VS-880EX, signals flow through buses. buses are shared lines through
which multiple signals can be routed efficiently to multiple tracks or channels. It may be easier to understand this if we use the analogy of water pipes.
For example, the water that is supplied by the water company to your house is
branched to a variety of locations within the house (kitchen, bathroom, toilet,
etc.). The water that is used at each of these locations is then collected into the
sewer, and carried away.
If we think of the VS-880EX as the house, the water being supplied from the
water company corresponds to inputs such as mic or guitar. Some of these
inputs are sent to recording tracks and are recorded. Other portions are sent to
the effects, and reverb or chorus are applied before they are output.
The basic principle of the VS-880EX is that by specifying in this way from where
and to where the common lines run, you can determine which input signals will
be recorded on which track or sent to which effects, and where they will be output.
Drain (Bus)
OUTPUT
to street
Water Heater
INPUT to house
from water line
Your House
Cold Water (Bus)
Hot Water (Bus)
Bath Sink
Bathtub
Kitchen Sink
INPUT
INPUTS INPUTS
INPUT
INPUTS
Toilet
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology)
24
The VS-880EX has the following buses.
RECORDING Bus:
Signals assigned to the RECORDING bus are routed to the recorder section to be
recorded. There are eight channels which can be assigned to the output of the
input mixer, track mixer, and effects (Return). Signals assigned to the RECORDING bus cannot be routed to the MIX bus.
MIX Bus:
Signals assigned to the MIX bus are sent to the MASTER jacks for monitoring. It
has two channels (L and R), and can take output signals from the input mixer,
track mixer, and effects (Return). Signals assigned to the MIX bus cannot be routed to the RECORDING bus.
EFFECT Bus:
Signals assigned to the EFFECT bus are sent to the effect to apply effects added
to them. It has two channels (FX1, FX2), and can process signals from the input
mixer and the track mixer. Signals assigned to the RECORDING bus as well as
the MIX bus can also be routed to the EFFECT bus.
AUX Bus:
Signals assigned to the AUX bus are routed to the AUX SEND jacks to allow
addition mixes for monitoring. This bus features two channels (AUX A, AUX B),
and can take signals from the input mixer and the track mixer. Signals assigned
to the RECORDING bus as well as the MIX bus can also be routed to the AUX
bus. This is convenient if, for example, you want to connect an external effects
device, or when you want an addition output separate from that of the MASTER
Out jacks (individual out).
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Chapter 1
Input Mixer
Input mixer is placed before the recorder section, and correspond to the external
input sources (INPUT 1–6, DIGITAL IN L/R).
The output of each channel is assigned to tracks to be recorded. Channels not
assigned to tracks are output directly from the MASTER jacks. Additionally, the
status of tracks with signals assigned to them when not in record standby (STATUS indicator blinking red), also are output from the MASTER jacks. At this
time, the following signals are assigned to the channel faders.
Channels 1–6: INPUT jacks 1–6
Channels 7–8: DIGITAL IN connector L/R
EQ1 Fader1
EQ2 Fader2
EQ3 Fader3
EQ4 Fader4
EQ5 Fader5
EQ6 Fader6
EQ7 Fader7
EQ8 Fader8
INPUT 1
INPUT 2
INPUT 3
INPUT 4
INPUT 5
INPUT 6
DIGITAL IN L (7)
DIGITAL IN R (8)
Input Mixer (Channel 1–6, DIGITAL L/R)
Pan1
Pan2
Pan3
Pan4
Pan5
Pan6
Pan7
Pan8
REC 1 (Recorder)
REC 2 (Recorder)
REC 3 (Recorder)
REC 4 (Recorder)
REC 5 (Recorder)
REC 6 (Recorder)
REC 7 (Recorder)
REC 8 (Recorder)
MIX L/R (MASTER)
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Track Mixer
Track mixer is placed after the recorder section, and correspond to the tracks
(1–8).
All of the tracks are output from the MASTER jacks. Additionally, tracks can
also be routed back to the RECORDING bus for overdubbing, or re-rerecording.
In this status, the channel faders 1–8 correspond respectively to Tracks 1–8.
Effect Return Mixer
This mixer adjusts the return level/balance from effects connected in
send/return fashion, and the level/balance of the stereo input.
Each channel is output from the MASTER jacks. It is also possible to assign them
to the recording bus for recording. In this case, the channel faders correspond to
the following signals.
Channel 6: The INPUT jack assigned to Stereo In
Channel 7: FX1 return
Channel 8: FX2 return
EQ1 Fader1
EQ2 Fader2
Pan1
Pan2
EQ3 Fader3
EQ4 Fader4
Pan3
Pan4
EQ5 Fader5
EQ6 Fader6
Pan5
Pan6
EQ7 Fader7
EQ8 Fader8
Pan7
Pan8
Track1
Track2
Track3
Track4
Track5
Track6
Track7
Track8
REC 1 (Recorder)
REC 2 (Recorder)
REC 3 (Recorder)
REC 4 (Recorder)
REC 5 (Recorder)
REC 6 (Recorder)
REC 7 (Recorder)
REC 8 (Recorder)
MIX L/R (MASTER)
Recorder Track Mixer (Track 1–8)
REC 1
REC 2
REC 3
REC 4
REC 5
REC 6
REC 7
REC 8
Fader6 Balance6
Fade7
Balance7
Fader8 Balance8
REC 1 (Recorder)
REC 2 (Recorder)
REC 3 (Recorder)
REC 4 (Recorder)
REC 5 (Recorder)
REC 6 (Recorder)
REC 7 (Recorder)
REC 8 (Recorder)
MIX L/R (MASTER)Stereo In
FX1 Return
FX2 Retuen
FX Return Mixer (Channel 6–8)
Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology)
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Chapter 1
Switching the Fader Functions
On the VS-880EX, it is able to adjust Input mixer or Track mixer by switching the
function of the channel faders on the top panel. Pressing [FADER] on the top
panel toggles between the input mixer and the track mixer. The FADER indicator indicates which mixer is currently selected.
Master Block
This selects the jacks or connectors connected to external equipment to which the
output of each mixer is sent.
Recorder Section
Differences with a Tape-Type MTR
Unlike DAT recorders, which use tape, digital disk recorders record performances (sounds) on a disk, as do MD recorders. Music that is recorded on
disk can be recalled and played back immediately, no matter where it is located
on the disk. This is also obvious from the difference in speed at which you can
move to the beginning of a song on a DAT recorder and on an MD recorder.
The ability to freely move to data regardless of the time or sequence at which it
was recorded is known as random access. In contrast, having to move to data
in the order of the time or sequence at which it was recorded is known as
sequential access.
lighting orange: Input Mixer
lighting green: Track Mixer
lighting red: Effect Return Mixer
MIX L/R MASTER L/R
AUX A, B
AUX A, B
FX1 L/R
FX2 L/R
REC bus
DIGITAL OUT 1
DIGITAL OUT 2
PHONES L/R
Masterblock
random access sequential access
Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology)
28
Track Minutes and Recording Time
With cassette tape recorders, the amount of time you can record on a tape is predetermined by the length of that tape. Moreover, any unused portion of the tape
is wasted.
In contrast, with disk recording, although available recording time is determined
by the amount of disk space, only the disk space used in recording is taken, and
beyond that, has no affect on the disk’s remaining free space. Thus, depending
on how you use tracks and phrases, the amount of available recording time will
vary. Thus, this calls for a standard unit corresponding to the time of one continuous monaural signal recorded to one track. This unit is referred to as a track
minute.
available recording time
Track 1
Track 2
Track 3
Track 4
00h00m00s00 00h30m00s00
Time
In Case of Tape Recording (using 30-minute tape)
available recording time
In Case of Disk Recording
Time
Track 1
Track 2
Track 3
Track 4
00h00m00s00 00h30m00s00 00h40m00s00
Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology)
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Chapter 1
For example, 10 track minutes be used for 10 minutes of monaural recording, 5
minutes of stereo recording, 2 minutes and 30 seconds of recording on four
tracks, and so on.
Auxiliary Tracks for Each Track
The VS-880EX provides 8 playback tracks, and allows 8 tracks to be recorded
simultaneously. Each track is composed from the features 8 supplementary
tracks, each on of which can be used for recording or playback. These auxiliary
tracks are called V-tracks.
One song can contain two sets (banks) of 64 V-tracks (these 8 tracks x 8 V-tracks).
In other words, a maximum of 8 tracks x 8 V-tracks x 2 banks = 128 performance
tracks can be recorded. For actual recording/playback, you will specify the bank
that you wish to use, and then select one of the V-tracks.
* This Owner’s Manual provides a blank virtual track sheet to help you keep track of
your virtual track recordings (p. 129). Feel free to copy the sheet to use when you
record.
Track 1
Track 1
Track 2
Track 1
Track 2
Track 3
Track 4
00h00m00s00 00h10m00s00
00h00m00s00 00h05m00s00
00h00m00s00 00h02m30s00
Time
Time
Time
2
V-Track1
3
4
5
6
7
8
V-Track Bank A, B
Song
Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-880EX Terminology)
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