How it Works
Roland Corporation
Loading...
VK-88
Owner's Manual
112 pgs4.42 Mb0
User Manual
10 pgs77.99 Kb0
Table of contents
Loading...

Roland Corporation VK-88 Owner's Manual

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of death or severe injury should the unit be used improperly.
Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of injury or material damage should the unit be used improperly.
* Material damage refers to damage or
other adverse effects caused with respect to the home and all its furnishings, as well to domestic animals or pets.
001
• Before using this unit, make sure to read the instructions below, and the Owner’s Manual.
002a
• Do not open or perform any internal modifica­tions on the unit.
003
• Do not attempt to repair the unit, or replace parts within it (except when this manual provides specific instructions directing you to do so). Refer all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.
004
• Never use or store the unit in places that are:
• Subject to temperature extremes (e.g., direct
sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating duct, on top of heat-generating equipment); or are
• Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors);
or are
• Humid; or are
• Exposed to rain; or are
• Dusty; or are
• Subject to high levels of vibration.
005
• This unit should be used only with a rack or stand that is recommended by Roland.
006
• When using the unit with a rack or stand recom­mended by Roland, the rack or stand must be carefully placed so it is level and sure to remain stable. If not using a rack or stand, you still need to make sure that any location you choose for placing the unit provides a level surface that will properly support the unit, and keep it from wobbling.
The symbol alerts the user to important instructions or warnings.The specific meaning of the symbol is determined by the design contained within the triangle. In the case of the symbol at left, it is used for general cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.
The symbol alerts the user to items that must never be carried out (are forbidden). The specific thing that must not be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the unit must never be disassembled.
The ● symbol alerts the user to things that must be carried out. The specific thing that must be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the power­cord plug must be unplugged from the outlet.
007
• Make sure you always have the unit placed so it is level and sure to remain stable. Never place it on stands that could wobble, or on inclined surfaces.
008a
• The unit should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instruc­tions, or as marked on the unit.
008e
• Use only the attached power-supply cord.
009
• Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord, nor place heavy objects on it. Doing so can damage the cord, producing severed elements and short circuits. Damaged cords are fire and shock hazards!
010
• This unit, either alone or in combination with an amplifier and headphones or speakers, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for a long period of time at a high volume level, or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should immediately stop using the unit, and consult an audiologist.
011
• Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable material, coins, pins); or liquids of any kind (water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate the unit.
3
USING THE UNIT SAFELY
012a:
• Immediately turn the power off, remove the power cord from the outlet, and request servicing by your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information” page when:
• The power-supply cord, or the plug has been
damaged; or
• If smoke or unusual odor occurs
• Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been
spilled onto the unit; or
• The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise
has become wet); or
• The unit does not appear to operate normally or
exhibits a marked change in performance.
013
• In households with small children, an adult should provide supervision until the child is capable of following all the rules essential for the safe operation of the unit.
014
• Protect the unit from strong impact.
(Do not drop it!)
015
• Do not force the unit’s power-supply cord to share an outlet with an unreasonable number of other devices. Be especially careful when using extension cords—the total power used by all devices you have connected to the extension cord’s outlet must never exceed the power rating (watts/amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive loads can cause the insulation on the cord to heat up and eventually melt through.
016
• Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.
101a
• The unit should be located so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper venti­lation.
101c
• This (VK-88) for use only with Roland stand KS­88, Roland rack RKS-88, Roland monitor speaker DS-50A and DS-30A. Use with other stands, racks, and monitor speaker are capable of resulting in instability causing possible injury.
102b
• Always grasp only the plug on the power-supply cord when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.
103a:
• Any accumulation of dust between the power plug and the power outlet can result in poor insulation and lead to fire. Periodically wipe away such dust with a dry cloth. Also, disconnect the power plug from the power outlet whenever the unit is to remain unused for an extended period of time.
104
• Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entangled. Also, all cords and cables should be placed so they are out of the reach of children.
106
• Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on the unit.
107b
• Never handle the power cord or its plugs with wet hands when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.
108d: Selection
• If you need to move the instrument, take note of the precautions listed below. At least two persons are required to safely lift and move the unit. It should be handled carefully, all the while keeping it level. Make sure to have a firm grip, to protect yourself from injury and the instrument from damage.
• Check to make sure the knob bolts and screws
securing the unit to the stand have not become loose. Fasten them again securely whenever you notice any loosening.
• Disconnect the power cord.
• Disconnect all cords coming from external
devices.
• Remove the music stand.
109a
• Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and unplug the power cord from the outlet (p. 19).
110a
• Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in your area, pull the plug on the power cord out of the outlet.
118
• Should you remove knob bolt and screws for stand, make sure to put them in a safe place out of children’s reach, so there is no chance of them being swallowed accidentally.
4

IMPORTANT NOTES

In addition to the items listed under “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” and “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” on pages 2, 3 and 4, please read and observe the following:
Power Supply
301
• Do not use this unit on the same power circuit with any device that will generate line noise (such as an electric motor or variable lighting system).
307
• Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn off the power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions and/or damage to speakers or other devices.
Placement
351
• Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other equipment containing large power transformers) may induce hum. To alleviate the problem, change the orientation of this unit; or move it farther away from the source of inter­ference.
352a
• This device may interfere with radio and television reception. Do not use this device in the vicinity of such receivers.
352b
• Noise may be produced if wireless communications devices, such as cell phones, are operated in the vicinity of this unit. Such noise could occur when receiving or initi­ating a call, or while conversing. Should you experience such problems, you should relocate such wireless devices so they are at a greater distance from this unit, or switch them off.
354b
• Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed vehicle, or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes. Also, do not allow lighting devices that normally are used while their light source is very close to the unit (such as a piano light), or powerful spotlights to shine upon the same area of the unit for extended periods of time. Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.
355b
• When moved from one location to another where the temperature and/or humidity is very different, water droplets (condensation) may form inside the unit. Damage or malfunction may result if you attempt to use the unit in this condition. Therefore, before using the unit, you must allow it to stand for several hours, until the condensation has completely evaporated.
356
• Do not allow rubber, vinyl, or similar materials to remain on the unit for long periods of time. Such objects can discolor or otherwise harmfully affect the finish.
357
• Do not put anything that contains water (e.g., flower vases) on the unit. Also, avoid the use of insecticides, perfumes, alcohol, nail polish, spray cans, etc., near the unit. Swiftly wipe away any liquid that spills on the unit using a dry, soft cloth.
358
• Do not allow objects to remain on top of the keyboard. This can be the cause of malfunction, such as keys ceasing to produce sound.
359
• Do not paste stickers, decals, or the like to this instrument. Peeling such matter off the instrument may damage the exterior finish.
Maintenance
401b
• To clean the unit, use a dry, soft cloth; or one that is slightly dampened. Try to wipe the entire surface using an equal amount of strength, moving the cloth along with the grain of the wood. Rubbing too hard in the same area can damage the finish.
402
• Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or deformation.
Additional Precautions
551
• Please be aware that the contents of memory can be irretrievably lost as a result of a malfunction, or the improper operation of the unit. To protect yourself against the risk of loosing important data, we recommend that you periodically save a backup copy of important data you have stored in the unit’s memory in another MIDI device (e.g., a sequencer).
552
• Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents of data that was stored in another MIDI device (e.g., a sequencer) once it has been lost. Roland Corporation assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.
553
• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unit’s buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks and connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.
556
• When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the connector itself—never pull on the cable. This way you will avoid causing shorts, or damage to the cable’s internal elements.
557
•A small amount of heat will radiate from the unit during normal operation.
558a
• To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the unit’s volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about those around you (especially when it is late at night).
559a
• When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box (including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise, you will need to use equivalent packaging materials.
561
• Use only the specified expression pedal (EV-7; sold separately). By connecting any other expression pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the unit.
562
• Use a cable from Roland to make the connection. If using some other make of connection cable, please note the following precautions.
• Some connection cables contain resistors. Do not use cables that incorporate resistors for connecting to this unit. The use of such cables can cause the sound level to be extremely low, or impossible to hear. For infor­mation on cable specifications, contact the manufac­turer of the cable.
5

Contents

Conventions Used in This Manual .......................................................................................................... 1
USING THE UNIT SAFELY...................................................................................................................... 3
IMPORTANT NOTES................................................................................................................................ 5
Main Features..........................................................................................9
Panel Descriptions................................................................................10
How the VK-88 Works...........................................................................16
About the Virtual Tonewheel Sound Generator ...................................................................... 16
How the Organ Sound are Created............................................................................................ 16
About the ORCHESTRAL TONES ............................................................................................. 18
About the Memories ..................................................................................................................... 18
Before You Begin Playing ....................................................................19
Connecting the Power Cord.................................................................................................................... 19
Connecting Your Amp, Speakers, or Headphones.............................................................................. 20
Connecting the Pedal Keyboard............................................................................................................. 22
Connecting a Pedal Keyboard Unit which Has a PK OUT Connector.................................. 22
Connecting a MIDI Pedal Keyboard Unit .................................................................................23
Connecting an Expression Pedal or Pedal Switch ............................................................................... 24
Setting Up the Music Stand..................................................................................................................... 24
Attaching the Rear Cover........................................................................................................................ 25
Attaching the Cord Clamp...................................................................................................................... 25
Turning the Power On ............................................................................................................................. 26
Turning Off the Power .................................................................................................................26
Restoring the Factory Settings (Factory Reset)..................................................................................... 27
Listening to the Demo Songs .................................................................................................................. 28
Playing the Organ .................................................................................29
Listening to Various Sounds................................................................................................................... 29
About the Organ Voice............................................................................................................................ 30
Adjusting the Sound in Real Time (Harmonic Bars)........................................................................... 31
Changing the Organ Sound (Wheel Type, Leakage Level, Key Click)............................................. 34
Adding Crispness to the Sound (Percussion)....................................................................................... 36
Adding Modulation to the Sound (Vibrato and Chorus)................................................................... 39
Using the COSM Rotary Speaker Effect (Rotary Sound).................................................................... 40
Changing the Amp Type (Amp Type, Overdrive, Tone) ................................................................... 41
Using the D BEAM Controller to Produce Common Organ Effects................................................. 42
Adjusting the Sensitivity of the D Beam Controller................................................................. 44
Adding Ambience (Reverb) .................................................................................................................... 45
Dividing the Lower Keyboard (PEDAL TO LOWER) ........................................................................ 46
Changing the Split Point .............................................................................................................. 46
Adding Effects to the Pedal Part ............................................................................................................ 47
Adding a Decay to the Pedal Part (Pedal Sustain) ................................................................... 47
Sharpening the Attack of the Pedal Part (Pedal Attack) .........................................................47
6
Contents
Saving Your Settings (Registration) ...................................................48
Saving to a Registration in the Same Bank................................................................................ 49
Saving to a Registration in Another Bank .................................................................................49
Copying a Registration................................................................................................................. 49
Playing Orchestral Tones.....................................................................50
About the ORCHESTRAL TONES......................................................................................................... 50
Layering ORCHESTRAL TONES with Organ Sounds (Layer) ......................................................... 52
Muting the Organ Tones and Playing Only the Orchestral Tones ........................................53
Adding a Decay to the Pedal Orchestral Tones (Pedal Sustain)........................................................ 53
Playing the Pedal Orchestral Tones in the Lower Keyboard (PEDAL TO LOWER) ..................... 54
Muting the Organ Tones and Playing Only the Orchestral Tones ........................................55
Changing the Split Point .............................................................................................................. 55
Using the Controllers ...........................................................................56
Using the Expression Pedal .................................................................................................................... 56
Using the Active Expression Function....................................................................................... 56
Using a Control Pedal.............................................................................................................................. 57
Assigning a Function to the Control Pedal ............................................................................... 58
Using the Pedalboard Foot Switch......................................................................................................... 60
Using the Hold Pedal to Sustain the Sound .........................................................................................60
Using the Bender ......................................................................................................................................61
Using the Modulation Lever................................................................................................................... 61
Changing the Sound with Aftertouch ................................................................................................... 62
Changing the Pedal and MODULATION Lever Functions ([ORGAN CONTROL] Button) ....... 62
Advanced Use .......................................................................................63
About the Edit Modes .................................................................................................................. 63
Basic Procedure .............................................................................................................................63
Settings That Are Saved for the Entire System ....................................................................................65
Rotary-related Settings................................................................................................................. 65
Percussion Settings ....................................................................................................................... 67
Organ Voice Setting ...................................................................................................................... 68
Controller Settings ........................................................................................................................68
ORCHESTRAL TONES Controller Setting ............................................................................... 71
MIDI-related Settings ...................................................................................................................74
Equalizer and Other Settings....................................................................................................... 78
Parameters that are Stored in a Registration ........................................................................................ 81
Effect and Other Settings ............................................................................................................. 81
Pedal Sustain Setting ....................................................................................................................83
Pedal Attack Setting...................................................................................................................... 83
7
Connecting the VK-88 to External Devices ........................................84
Playing the VK-88 from an External MIDI Device ..............................................................................84
Using the VK-88 with a External Keyboard .............................................................................. 84
Connecting a Pedal Keyboard.....................................................................................................85
Using an External Sequencer to Record and Play Back ...................................................................... 86
Saving VK-88 Settings on an External Sequencer (Bulk Dump)........................................................ 87
Loading Back Data That’s Been Saved on an External Sequencer......................................... 87
Using the VK-88 as the Master Keyboard............................................................................................. 88
Connecting a External Sound Generator ................................................................................... 88
Making the Master Keyboard Settings....................................................................................... 88
Setting a Different MIDI Channel for Each Keyboard............................................................. 88
Turning Transmission of MIDI Messages On and Off Separately for Each Keyboard....... 89
Using the VK-88 to Select Tones on an External Sound Module ........................................... 89
Mixing the Sound Module Sound with the Organ Sound ................................................................. 90
Connecting a Rotary Speaker ................................................................................................................. 91
Troubleshooting....................................................................................92
Error Indications............................................................................................................................ 95
Registration/ORCHESTRAL TONES List ............................................96
Registration List ............................................................................................................................ 96
ORCHESTRAL TONES List ........................................................................................................97
Edit Parameters.....................................................................................98
Drum List .............................................................................................100
MIDI Implementation...........................................................................101
Main Specification ..............................................................................109
Index.....................................................................................................111
8

Main Features

Organ Features
Virtual Tonewheel Sound Generator
The VK-88 features a Virtual Tonewheel sound generator that perfectly simulates the sound-production mechanism of traditional tone wheel organs. The rapid attack is particularly evident when playing glissandos. Since all parts — upper, lower, and pedal — are completely polyphonic, notes aren’t cut off regardless of your performance technique.
Rotary Sound
An effect algorithm using Roland’s COSM technology creates a faithful rotary speaker simulation that’s essential for a great organ sound. Enjoy the realistic rotary sound simply by connecting headphones, a keyboard amp (such as the KC-1000) or stereo system.
Overdrive Sound
The VK-88 accurately simulates not only the special characteristics of the rotary speaker’s vacuum tube circuitry and the speaker cabinet’s acoustic properties, it provides a variety of simulated amp types as well. Switch among the various amp types to enjoy performing with a wide range of sounds, from tones that are just right for jazz to the heavy overdrive sound of rock music.
Waterfall Keyboard
The VK-88 features the same keyboard feel as traditional tone wheel organs. This keyboard is especially designed for optimal performance of glissando and other organ techniques.
Intuitive Operation
The VK-88 is designed with an emphasis on operability, with harmonic bars, rotary knobs, and large buttons. The VIBRATO AND CHORUS and PERCUSSION controls feature the same operation and placement as on traditional tone wheel organs. Tone wheel Type, Leakage Noise, Amp Simulator, and other elements vital to creating a great organ sound can be edited directly and intuitively from the front panel just as if you were adjusting the sound on a guitar amp.
Natural Wood Cabinet
The cabinet is built of wood, echoing the construction of traditional tone wheel organs. The side panels feature beautifully finished natural wood that will gain luster with years of use.
Built-in Orchestral Tones Complement the Organ Sound Generator
The VK-88 includes an ORCHESTRAL TONES feature that is separate from the organ sound generator, providing high-quality internal strings, piano sounds, and other tones. Use these in combination with the organ to further enhance expression in your performances. The VK-88 also is equipped with ORCHESTRAL TONES harmonic bars, allowing you to control these tones in the same manner as the organ.
Other Features
• You can use the D BEAM controller to create performance gestures unique to traditional tone wheel organs, such as turning the tone wheel motor off or producing the “splash” of a quick kick to a spring reverb unit. You can also confirm the effect by the change in color of the color LEDs. Take advantage of the D BEAM controller to heighten the excitement of your performances onstage.
•A dedicated rotary speaker connector is provided. Rotary speakers with an eleven-pin connector can be connected directly to the VK-88.
• The VK-88's MIDI IN and OUT connectors let you enjoy performances using an external sound module or sequencer.
• You can also enjoy performing with a pedalboard by connecting an external pedalboard to the PEDAL IN jack.
• User Registration memory lets you store 64 different panel settings.
• In addition to Expression Pedal and Hold Pedal jacks, a Control Pedal jacks are provided that can be assigned a variety of functions. By connecting an expression pedal or pedal switch, you can enjoy a wide range of performance possibilities.
9

Panel Descriptions

1.
■
2.
3.
4.
■
5.
6.
7.
A
D
E
A
B C
1 4 65 72 3
[POWER] switch
Turn the power on/off (p. 26).
VIBRATO AND CHORUS
VIBRATO AND CHORUS [UPPER] button
Turns the Upper Part’s vibrato or chorus effect on and off (p. 39).
VIBRATO AND CHORUS [LOWER] button
Turns the Lower Part’s vibrato or chorus effect on and off (p. 39).
[VIBRATO AND CHORUS] knob
Switches the type of vibrato or chorus effect (p. 39).
D BEAM
D BEAM controller
You can modify the sound by moving your hand over the D Beam controller (p. 42).
D BEAM [ON] button
Switches the D Beam controller on/off (p. 42).
[D BEAM] button
Selects the effect that will be controlled by the D Beam controller (p. 42).
10
B
■
■
8.
9.
Panel Descriptions
■
HARMONIC BAR
These bars create the tonality of the organ voice for the upper, pedal and lower keyboard. You can modify the tone in real time as you play (p. 31).
C
8
13 14
ORCHESTRAL TONES
UPPER ORCHESTRAL TONES button
Selects the Upper Orchestral Tones (p. 50).
UPPER ORCHESTRAL TONES [TO LOWER] button
Plays the Upper Orchestral Tones on the lower manual (p. 50).
10. LOWER & PEDAL ORCHESTRAL TONES
button
This button is used to select either the Lower Orchestral Tones or the Pedal Orchestral Tones (p. 50). When the ORCHESTRAL TONES [PEDAL] button is not lit, the buttons here are used for selecting the Lower Orchestral Tones; when the ORCHESTRAL TONES [PEDAL] button is flashing, these buttons select the Pedal Orchestral Tones.
11. LOWER ORCHESTRAL TONES [TO UPPER]
button
Plays the Lower Orchestral Tones on the upper manual (p. 50).
12. ORCHESTRAL TONES [PEDAL] button
When the ORCHESTRAL TONES [PEDAL] button is flashing, the LOWER & PEDAL ORCHESTRAL TONES
10 17 181112
UPPER Changes the Upper Organ Tone PEDAL Changes the Pedal Organ Tone LOWER Changes the Lower Organ Tone
9 15 16
buttons are used for selecting the Pedal Orchestral Tones, and the LOWER & PEDAL ORCHESTRAL TONES harmonic bars adjust the volume of the Pedal Orchestral Tones (p. 50).
13. UPPER ORCHESTRAL TONES HARMONIC
BAR
Adjusts the volume of the Upper Orchestral Tones(p. 50).
14. LOWER & PEDAL ORCHESTRAL TONES
HARMONIC BAR
Adjust the volume of the Lower Orchestral Tones or Pedal Orchestral Tones (p. 50).
PERCUSSION
15. [SECOND] button
This adds second percussion (same pitch as the 4' harmonic bar) to the organ voice (p. 36).
16. [THIRD] button
This adds third percussion (same pitch as the 2-2/3' harmonic bar) to the organ voice (p. 36).
17. [SOFT] button
This switches the volume of the percussion (p. 37).
18. [SLOW] button
This switches the decay time of the percussion (p. 38).
11
Panel Descriptions
D
25
26
21 22 2419 20
23
27 28
■ PEDAL
19. PEDAL [TO LOWER] button
Splits the lower manual into two ranges, with the Pedal Tones placed in the left range (p. 46).
20. PEDAL [SUSTAIN] button
Adds sustain to the sound of the organ’s Pedal part and Pedal Orchestral Tones (p. 47).
21. PEDAL [ATTACK] button
Adds attack to the organ’s Pedal part sound (p. 47).
■ TONE WHEEL
22. [LEAKAGE] knob
Allows you to independently add leakage noise, separately from the leakage noise selected by the wheel type (p. 35).
23. [TONE WHEEL] button
Select the type of the virtual tonewheel (p. 35).
24. [KEY CLICK] button
Adjusts the key click volume (p. 35).
25. [H-BAR MANUAL] (Harmonic Bar Manual)
button
When this function is used, the harmonic bar settings will change from the settings of the registration to the positions (settings) of the harmonic bars on the panel (p.
30).
■ REGISTRATION
26. [WRITE] button
Saves the panel settings as a registration (p. 48, 49).
27. [BANK] button
Selects the registration bank (p. 29, 48, 49).
28. [1]–[8] button
Allows the [1]–[8] buttons to be used for selecting registrations.
12
E
Panel Descriptions
31 32 3430
29
33
39
29. [MASTER VOLUME] knob
Adjust the overall volume (p. 26).
■ REVERB
30. REVERB [LEVEL] knob
Adjust the depth of reverb (p. 45).
31. [REVERB] button
Select the type of reverb (p. 45).
■ AMPLIFIER
32. [OVERDRIVE] knob
Adjust the depth of overdrive (p. 41).
33. [AMPLIFIER] button
Switches the frequency response and cabinet resonance of the virtual amp (p. 41).
34. [TONE] knob
Adjust the tonal character of the organ voice (p. 41).
■ ROTARY SOUND
35. ROTATY SOUND [ON] button
This button switches the rotary effect on/off for the organ sound (p. 40).
36. [BRAKE] button
This button switches the rotation of the rotary sound. When this is turned on, the rotation will gradually stop. When it is turned off, the rotation will gradually resume (p. 40).
35 38
4041 36 37
37. [SLOW/FAST] button
This button switches the speed of rotation for the rotary sound (p. 40).
38. SPEED indicator
The left and right indicators blink alternately, indicating the speed of the rotary speaker (p. 40).
ROTARY SPEED Indicators Explanation
Rapid blinking Fast rotation
Slow blinking Slow rotation
39. [ORGAN CONTROL] button
This button selects whether the [BENDER/ MODULATION] lever will be used as an organ controller or as a controller for orchestral tones and external MIDI devices (p. 62).
40. [BENDER/MODULATION] lever.
When using this as an organ voice controller, you can assign the function, such as rotary effect, Tone wheel, overdrive, or other function to be controlled (p. 62).
When this is used as a controller for the orchestral tones, it can control the pitch of the sound or modulate the pitch (p. 61).
When this is used to control external MIDI sound modules, movements of the lever will transmit pitch bend messages and modulation messages respectively.
41. PHONES jack
An optional set of headphones can be connected here (p.
20).
13
Panel Descriptions
62
F
42 43 44 45 46
F
G
494847 50
42. PK IN button
If your pedal keyboard unit (PK-25/PK-7, etc.; sold separately) has a PK OUT connector, connect it to this connector (p. 22, 85).
43. PEDAL KEYBOARD IN [SELECT] switch
Set the switch to specify the connector you have used to connect your pedal keyboard unit (p. 22, 23, 85).
Turn off the power before changing the setting of this select switch.
44. MIDI PEDAL IN connector
A pedal keyboard can be connected here, allowing you to play the pedals (p. 23, 85).
45. MIDI IN connector
You can connect an external keyboard and play the VK­88’s sounds from the external keyboard (p. 84).
You could also connect an external sequencer here, and get the VK-88 to play the music the sequencer sends it (p. 86).
46. MIDI OUT connector
An external MIDI device can be connected here to receive MIDI data transmitted from the VK-88 (p. 86,
87).
47. HOLD PEDAL jack
A pedal switch can be connected here. While you depress the pedal, the organ voice or Orchestral Tones you are playing will be sustained (p. 24, 60).
48. EXPRESSION PEDAL jack
An expression pedal (EV-7; sold separately) can be connected here (p. 24, 56).
49. CONTROL PEDAL 1 jack
50. CONTROL PEDAL 2 jack
Accepts connection of a pedal switch or expression pedal. The desired function can be assigned to the pedal (p. 24, 57).
14
Panel Descriptions
H
IG H
I
63
5251
53
54
5655
57 59 60 61
58
51. INPUT [LEVEL] knob
Adjust the volume level of the sound input from the INPUT jack (p. 90).
52. INPUT R jack
53. INPUT L (MONO) jack
You can play the sounds input from the sound module mixed with the VK-88’s sounds (p. 90). If you are inputting in mono, connect the L(MONO) jack.
Sounds input from the INPUT jacks are output from the MIX OUTPUT jacks.
54. ORCHESTRAL TONES OUTPUT R jack
55. ORCHESTRAL TONES OUTPUT L (MONO)
jack
The Orchestral Tone’s audio signals are output from audio systems or amps in stereo.
They support both unbalanced and balanced output. If you are outputting in mono, connect the L(MONO) jack.
* The volume of the ORCHESTRAL TONES OUTPUT jack
cannot be adjusted by the [Master Volume] knob.
56. ORGAN OUTPUT R jack
57. ORGAN OUTPUT L (MONO) jack
The Organ voice’s audio signals are output from audio systems or amps in stereo.
They support both unbalanced and balanced output. If you are outputting in mono, connect the L(MONO) jack.
* The volume of the ORGAN OUTPUT jack cannot be adjusted
by the [Master Volume] knob.
58. MIX OUTPUT R jack
59. MIX OUTPUT L (MONO) jack
These jacks output the audio signal from the entire VK­88 to your audio system or amp in stereo L/R.
They support both unbalanced and balanced output. If you are outputting in mono, connect the L(MONO) jack.
60. MIX OUTPUT R jack (XLR type)
61. MIX OUTPUT L (MONO) jack (XLR type)
These jacks output the audio signal from the entire VK­88 to your audio system or amp in stereo L/R.
62. AC Inlet
Connect the included power cord to this inlet (p. 19).
63. ROTARY TONE CABINET connector
Rotary speaker can be connected (p. 91).
15

How the VK-88 Works

■ About the Virtual Tonewheel Sound Generator

A traditional tone wheel organ produces the sound by 91 toothed wheels called “tone wheels.” Each tone
wheel produces a different pitch. A motor is used to rotate these tone wheels past electromagnetic coils, and
as the teeth of each wheel pass by the corresponding electromagnetic coil, an audio signal is generated. The
combination of harmonic bars and the notes that are pressed then select the audio signals that are output,
producing the sound of the organ.
The virtual tonewheel sound generator of the VK-88 uses digital technology to precisely re-create the sound-
production mechanism of a tone wheel organ. The 91 toothed wheels are constantly “rotating” digitally, and
are able to produce sound at any time. The sound produced by these virtual tonewheels is determined by the
combination of harmonic bars and the state of the notes played on the keyboard—exactly as on traditional
tone wheel organs.

■ How the Organ Sound are Created

Tone Wheels
Tone wheels rotate constantly, and will therefore “speak” the instant you play a note. The virtual tonewheel
sound generator of the VK-88 is also producing sound constantly, allowing very rapid response when you
play a note. This rapid response is especially valuable when you use characteristic organ performance
techniques such as glissando.
The organ sound consists of a fundamental and eight harmonics, and these are mixed according to the
combination of the harmonic bars. You can use the harmonic bars to modify the tone even while you play,
allowing a high degree of expressive flexibility.
Percussion
Tone wheel percussion is used when you want to add an attack to the notes you play, making the sound more
crisp. Relative to the pitch of the note you play, you can specify either the second (SECOND) or third (THIRD)
partial as the pitch of the percussion sound, and you can decrease the percussion volume (SOFT) or lengthen
its decay (SLOW).
The percussion on tone wheel organs is of a type called “single-trigger,” meaning that percussion was not
applied to all the notes that were played, but only to the note that was pressed first. If you release the
currently-played key(s), percussion will sound for the next-played note. If you play legato (with notes
smoothly connected), percussion will be applied only to the first note, and not to subsequent notes. If you play
staccato, percussion will be applied to all notes. If you play rapidly when using percussion, the percussion
circuit may not keep up with your playing, causing the percussion sound to become softer. However, the VK-
88 allows you to adjust the speed of recovery so that it will keep up even with rapid playing (p. 67). On a tone
wheel organ, the way in which percussion is applied is a very important element in enhancing the
expressiveness of the performance.
On tone wheel organs, the 1' harmonic bar was used to produce the percussion sound. This means that when
you add percussion, the sound of the 1' harmonic bar will no longer be heard. Also, percussion will be applied
only to the Upper Part.
On tone wheel organs, turning off percussion [SOFT] button would lower the volume of the organ, but the
VK-88 allows you to adjust it so the volume of the organ won’t change when percussion [SOFT] button is
switched on/off (p. 67).
Key Click
The first generations of traditional tone wheel organs produced a “blip” noise (separately from percussion)
when a note was pressed or released. Initially, this click noise was considered a problem, but blues and rock
musicians came to utilize it in their performances, and the key click became an indispensable part of the organ
sound in jazz as well.
On the VK-88 you can independently adjust the volume of the key click for key-on and key-off (p. 82).
16
How the VK-88 Works
Vibrato and Chorus
Traditional tone wheel organs provided a total of six different effects: three kinds of vibrato (V-1, V-2, V-3)
and three kinds of chorus (C-1, C-2, C-3).
Vibrato is an effect that cyclically modulates the pitch, and chorus is an effect that modulates the pitch to
produce spaciousness and depth.
Harmonic Bars
The harmonic bars of a tone wheel organ are arranged in ascending order of pitch, from left to right.
Borrowing some inspiration from the pipes of a pipe organ, the bars are labeled in “feet,” with 8’ being the
fundamental.
There is one exception in the ordering of the harmonic bars, and that is the 5-1/3’ bar located second from the
left. According to the pitch order, this should be the third from the left, but since 5-1/3’ is an overtone of 16’,
and blends with the 16’ sound, it is placed beside the 16’ bar.
The harmonic bars are color-coded in three colors. The bars whose pitches are in octave relation to 8’ are white,
the bars that are not octave harmonics are black, and the lower pitch range is brown.
On tone wheel organs, the highest feet were repeated (“reused”) in the high keyboard range, and the lowest
feet were repeated in the low range. This is called “fold-back.”
If an organ had 109 tone wheels, all nine harmonics of the harmonic bars could be sounded by all 61 keys of
a tone wheel organ. However, if this were the case, the upper range would be unpleasantly screechy, and the
lower range would be excessively low and muddy-sounding.
For this reason, fold-back is used on the VK-88 to produce a well-balanced sound.
Amp Type (Rotary, Overdrive, Tone)
The VK-88 features four different amp types, reproducing everything from warm tube sound to the cabinets’
sonic characteristics.
Even if you are using a keyboard amp or monitor speakers, amp modeling gives you the sound of an actual
rotating speaker or a guitar amp sound, allowing you to enjoy performing with a wider variety of sounds.
What’s more, you can make settings for the rotary speaker volume, for the time used in switching between
the fast and slow rotation speeds, as well as the fast and slow rotation speeds themselves, and separate tweeter
and woofer settings for a greater sense of breadth in the sound.
Reverb
Reverb is an effect that adds reverberation to the sound. Reverb types ROOM, HALL, and CHURCH add the
reverberation of differently sized acoustical spaces. The SPRING reverb type simulates a reverb circuit that
used springs, and was often found on traditional organs.
With the VK-88, you can change the reverberation time (p. 82), adjust the reverb volume by turning the
REVERB [LEVEL] knob (p. 45), and change the connection between the rotary and reverb (p. 79).
17
How the VK-88 Works

■ About the ORCHESTRAL TONES

The VK-88 also contains sounds other than organ sounds. These are referred to as “ORCHESTRAL TONES.”
You can play the Orchestral Tones in the Upper, Lower, and Pedal Parts.
ORCHESTRAL TONES provide the following sounds.
PEDAL ORCHESTRAL TONES
PIANO STRINGS
E.PIANO 1 (Electric Piano 1) LARGE CHOIR
E.PIANO 2 (Electric Piano 2) GOSPEL CHOIR
CLAVI SYNTH PAD (Synthesizer Pad)
VIBES (Vibraphone) BRASS
HARPSICHORD WOOD WINDS
A.BASS (Acoustic Bass) JAZZ SCAT
E.BASS (Electric Bass) ACCORDION

■ About the Memories

System Memory
Settings that affect the entire VK-88 are referred to as “system memory” (p. 63).
Registration Memory
Settings that are stored independently for each registration number, such as harmonic bar and panel settings,
are called “registration memory” (p. 63).
There are a total of 64 registration memories, and each of them can be edited (p. 48).
LOWER ORCHESTRAL TONES
UPPER ORCHESTRAL TONES
18

Before You Begin Playing

Connecting the Power Cord

Before making a connection, make sure that the VK-88 is turned off.
1
NOTE
2 Connect supplied power cord to the VK-88, and plug the other end into a
power outlet.
fig.01-01
AC Outlet
Rear of the unit
AC Inlet
To prevent malfunction and/
or damage to speakers or other
devices, always turn down the
volume, and turn off the
power on all devices before
making any connections.
NOTE
Before connecting the power
cord, remove the rear cover (p.
25) and then confirm the
power voltage and power
consumption printed on
nameplate, and read the
caution printed on rear panel.
NOTE
Be sure to use the supplied
power cord.
19
Before You Begin Playing

Connecting Your Amp, Speakers, or Headphones

The VK-88 is not equipped with an amplifier or speakers. In order to hear the sound,
you will need to connect audio equipment such as a monitor speaker system or
stereo set, or use headphones.
1 Before making any connections, make sure that all the devices are turned
off.
2 Connect an amp or speakers to the VK-88’s MIX OUTPUT L (MONO)/R
jacks, or connect a pair of headphones to the PHONES jack.
To output the organ and Orchestral Tones sounds separately, connect your amp or
speakers to the ORCHESTRAL TONES OUTPUT jack and ORGAN OUTPUT jack.
fig.01-02
NOTE
To prevent malfunction and/
or damage to speakers or other
devices, always turn down the
volume, and turn off the
power on all devices before
making any connections.
Connect to the MIX OUTPUT
(XLR) jack when using XLR-
type cables.
Audio cables and headphones
are not included. You will
need to provide these
separately.
20
Audio cable
Mixer
Powered Amplifier
Use audio cables to connect audio equipment, such as an amp or speakers.
Monitor Speaker
Audio Set
In order to take full advantage
of the VK-88’s performance,
we recommend using a stereo
amp/speaker system. If you
are using a mono system,
make the connections to the
OUTPUT L (MONO) jack.
Before You Begin Playing
When you are using headphones, plug them into the PHONES jack.
Headphones
NOTE
In consideration of live concert
situations, the VK-88’s
PHONES jack is designed to
produce a higher volume level
than that of other electronic
instruments.
Extended listening at high
volume levels may damage
your hearing, so use caution
when adjusting the volume.
About a OUTPUT jacks
The VK-88’s OUTPUT jacks support both balanced output and unbalanced
output. To use balanced output, use a cable with a balanced (TRS type) phone
plug. To use unbalance output, use a cable with an unbalanced (TS type) phone
plug.
fig.01-03
TRS TS
TIP (HOT)
SLEEVE (Ground)
TIP (HOT)
RING (Cold)
SLEEVE (Ground)
About a XLR type connectors
The pin assignment for the XLR type connectors is as shown below. Before making
any connections, make sure that this pin assignment is compatible with that of all
your other devices.
21
Before You Begin Playing

Connecting the Pedal Keyboard

■ Connecting a Pedal Keyboard Unit which Has a PK OUT Connector

NOTE
1 Before making any connections, make sure that all the devices are turned
off.
2 Set the PEDAL KEYBOARD IN [SELECT] switch of the rear panel to the
PK IN position.
3 Using the special cable that was included with the VK-88, connect the
VK-88’s PK IN connector to the PK OUT connector of your pedal
keyboard unit.
fig.01-05
To prevent malfunction and/
or damage to speakers or other
devices, always turn down the
volume, and turn off the
power on all devices before
making any connections.
PK IN
PK-25/PK-7 etc.
4 Turn on the power of the VK-88.
PK OUT
If the special cable is
connected, it is not necessary
to turn the power of the pedal
keyboard unit on/off.
22

■ Connecting a MIDI Pedal Keyboard Unit

Before You Begin Playing
NOTE
1 Before making any connections, make sure that all the devices are turned
off.
2 Set the PEDAL KEYBOARD IN [SELECT] switch of the rear panel to the
MIDI PEDAL IN position.
3 Use a commercially available MIDI cable to connect the VK-88’s MIDI
PEDAL IN connector to the MIDI OUT connector of your MIDI pedal
keyboard unit.
fig.01-05
To prevent malfunction and/
or damage to speakers or other
devices, always turn down the
volume, and turn off the
power on all devices before
making any connections.
MIDI PEDAL IN
PK-25/PK-7 etc.
4 Turn on the MIDI pedal keyboard unit. 5 Turn on the power of the VK-88.
MIDI OUT
NOTE
The power switch of your
MIDI pedal keyboard unit
must be turned on before the
power switch of the VK-88.
When you turn off the power,
first turn off the power of the
VK-88, and then turn off the
power of your MIDI pedal
keyboard.
23
Before You Begin Playing

Connecting an Expression Pedal or Pedal Switch

You can connect an expression pedal or pedal switch to the rear panel EXPRESSION PEDAL jack, HOLD PEDAL jack, CONTROL PEDAL 1, or CONTROL PEDAL 2 jack.
fig.01-06
DP-2
NOTE
Use only the specified
expression pedal (EV-7; sold
separately). By connecting any
other expression pedals, you
risk causing malfunction and/
or damage to the unit.

Setting Up the Music Stand

Attach the music stand by inserting it into the two holes.
1
EV-7
24

Attaching the Rear Cover

You can attach the rear cover to the VK-88’s rear panel to hide the jack panel.
Before You Begin Playing
1 Use the screws included to attach the rear cover to the VK-88’s rear panel
as shown in the figure below.
These 3 screws can perform enough securement for Rear Board by hand.

Attaching the Cord Clamp

You can attach the cord clamp and then pull on the cable.
1 Use the screws included to attach the cord clamp to the underside of the
Rear Cover Screw
NOTE
Bundle all of the cord with the
cord clamp.
VK-88 as shown in the figure below.
Cord Clamp Screw
Cord Clamp
25
Before You Begin Playing
b

Turning the Power On

Before turning on the VK-88’s power, make sure that:
1
• The VK-88 is correctly connected to the desired peripheral devices.
• The volume of the VK-88 and any connected audio equipment or speakers is turned to the minimum position.
2 Press the upper portion of the VK-88’s [POWER] switch to turn on the
power.
When the power is on, the indicators for the [REVERB] button and other buttons on
the panel will light.
fig.01-07
3 Turn on the power of the connected amp or audio system. 4 Rotate the [MASTER VOLUME] knob clockwise to adjust the volume of
NOTE
Once the connections have
een completed, turn on
power to your various devices
in the order specified. By
turning on devices in the
wrong order, you risk causing
malfunction and/or damage to
speakers and other devices.
NOTE
This unit is equipped with a
protection circuit. A brief
interval (a few seconds) after
power up is required before
the unit will operate normally.
the VK-88.
fig.01-08
5 Adjust the volume of the device connected to the VK-88.

■ Turning Off the Power

1 Before switching off the power, confirm the following:
• The volume of the VK-88 and any connected equipment is turned to the minimum position.
• Any sound data you have created has been saved.
2 Turn off the power of the equipment connected to the VK-88. 3 Press the lower portion of the VK-88’s [POWER] switch to turn off the
power.
fig.01-07
NOTE
Be careful not to raise the
volume excessively. Excessive
volume may damage your
amp/speaker system/
headphones or could cause
hearing problems.
NOTE
If you turn off the power while
you are making sound
settings, the settings that you
are modifying will be lost. If
you wish to keep your
modified settings, you must
save them before turning off
the power. For details, refer to
“Saving Your Settings
(Registration)” (p. 48).
26
Before You Begin Playing

Restoring the Factory Settings (Factory Reset)

This function resets all the VK-88’s settings to their factory default values.
1 Make sure that the volume is turned to the minimum position. 2 Press the lower portion of the VK-88’s [POWER] switch to turn off the
power.
fig.01-07
3 While holding down the [BANK] button, [WRITE] button and [H-BAR
MANUAL] button, press the upper portion of the [POWER] switch to
turn on the power.
NOTE
When you perform the Factory
Reset operation, all the data
you created will be lost from
the VK-88’s internal memory.
If the VK-88 contains
important data that you wish
to keep, use the Bulk Dump
operation to save the data on
an external MIDI sequencer,
etc. before you perform the
Factory Reset operation (p. 87).
4 Press the [BANK] button, [WRITE] button and [H-BAR MANUAL]
button until all of the panel indicators light.
All settings will be restored to what they were when the instrument first left the
factory.
fig.01-07
NOTE
Never turn off the power
while Factory Reset is being
performed.
27
Before You Begin Playing

Listening to the Demo Songs

The VK-88 contains four demo songs. Here’s how to listen to the demo songs and
experience the various organ sounds and effects.
fig.01-11
21 3
1 Press the [BANK] button and the [H-BAR MANUAL] button at the same
time.
Enter Demo mode.
2 Press any of the REGISTRATION buttons [1]–[4] to select a demo song.
Chain Play of the demo songs begins from the selected song.
When the selected song is finished, playback continues with the next song in the
sequence. When the last song finishes playing, playback will return to the first song
and continue.
3 Press the [BANK] button.
Demo song playback will stop.
You will exit Demo mode.
Demo Song
Number
1 Joyful Peace for All. © 2003 Roland Corporation
2 Sunset Blvd © 2002 Roland Corporation
3 Beach Life © 2003 Roland Corporation
4 Blue Forest © 2002 Roland Corporation
Song Name Copyright
NOTE
All rights reserved.
Unauthorized use of this
material for purposes other
than private, personal
enjoyment is a violation of
applicable laws.
NOTE
28
No data for the music that is
played will be output from
MIDI OUT.

Playing the Organ

b

Listening to Various Sounds

The VK-88 comes with 64 registrations stored onboard. Here’s how to switch
registrations to hear the various sounds. There are eight banks of registrations, with
eight sounds in each bank.
Switch between the registrations to hear the various sounds.
fig.01-13
1, 21
1 Hold down the [BANK] button and press one of the buttons from [1]
through [8] to select the bank number.
2 Press one of the buttons from [1] through [8] to select a registration
number.
The indicator of the number button you’ve selected will light.
3 Play the keyboard to hear the sound you selected.
Example:
• Switching from registration 11 to registration 18
Press the [8] button.
• Switching from registration 11 to registration 35
Hold down the [BANK] button and press the [3] button. Take your finger off the
[BANK] button and [3] button, and press the [5] button.
If you want to select a
registration from the same
ank, step 1 is not necessary.
While you are pressing the
[BANK] button, the indicator
of the selected bank will light.
29
Playing the Organ

About the Organ Voice

The organ voice has three parts: “upper,” “lower,” and “pedal.”
When you play the upper manual on the VK-88, the Upper Part is played; the Lower
Part is played when you play the lower manual.
You can also play the VK-88 in the following ways.
• Divide the lower keyboard of the VK-88 into two zones, and play the sound of the Lower organ part in the right-hand zone, and the sound of the Pedal organ part in the left-hand zone (p. 46).
• Connect an external pedal keyboard, and play the sound of the Upper and Lower organ part on the VK-88, and the sound of the Pedal organ part on the pedal keyboard(p. 85).
The sounds of the Upper, Lower, and Pedal parts of an organ voice can be edited
using the harmonic bars.
fig.01-13
1 Press the [H-BAR MANUAL] button to make its indicator light.
When the [H-BAR MANUAL] button’s indicator is dark, the harmonic bar settings
will be the harmonic bar settings of the organ voice of the selected registration (p. 29,
48).
2 Change the tones by moving the harmonic bars for the tone you want to
set (p. 31).
A sound you’ve edited can be saved as a registration (p. 48).
To hear the sound of the Pedal
part, you can either select
Pedal To Lower function (p.
46) and play the sound of the
Pedal part in the left-hand
zone of the keyboard, or
connect an external pedal
keyboard (p. 85).
30

Adjusting the Sound in Real Time (Harmonic Bars)

The harmonic bars are controllers for creating the basic structure of the organ sound.
The VK-88 provides nine harmonic bars for the upper part and lower part
respectively, and two harmonic bars for the pedal part. By sliding the harmonic bars
in and out you can create a variety of tonalities.
In addition to creating the tone, the harmonic bars are also used to adjust the volume
balance between the upper, lower and pedal parts.
fig.01-14
Playing the Organ
75%
When percussion is on, the 1'
pitch will not be produced.
Percussion sounds are applied
only to the Upper Part.
The numbers appearing on the harmonic bars allow you to rapidly set the bars to the
desired setting. If you push a harmonic bar inward until no number is visible, its
volume will be “0,” and no sound will be heard. If you pull a harmonic bar all the
way out, the volume will be at the maximum.
A sine wave (pure tone) of differing pitch is assigned to each of the harmonic bars,
and you can create a variety of sounds by mixing these sine waves.
fig.01-15
Time
8' volume: 8
Time
Time
4' volume: 5
NOTE
When all of the harmonic bars
are pushed in, which sets the
volume to “0,” no sound is
played even when you play
the keyboard. However, when
you play crescendo using the
D BEAM Controller or other
effects, the organ’s Upper and
Lower Parts are played, and
the crescendo effect is applied.
31
Playing the Organ
The numbers (16', 5-1/3', etc.) printed on the knob of each harmonic bar indicate the
pitch of that bar in “feet.” The pitch of each harmonic bar plays an important role in
creating the tone. The 8' pitch is the basic pitch of the sound, and the sound is created
based on this 8' pitch.
The pitches of the harmonic bars are related as follows.
fig.01-16
When the middle C (C4) note is pressed, each
harmonic bar will sound the following notes.
16' 8' 4' 2' 1'51/3'2
one octave
below


5th root 8th 12th

8' =

2
/3'1
15th



3
/5'11/3'
17th 19th 22nd



  




32
Loading...
+ 82 hidden pages
Buy Points How it Works FAQ Contact Us Questions and Suggestions Privacy Policy Cookie Policy Terms of Use