Roland Corporation VS-1680 User's Manual

USER’S GUIDE

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled:
“IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” (p. 2), “USING
THE UNIT SAFELY” (p. 3), 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 , User’s Guide , and

Appendices should be read in their entirety. The user’s guide

should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference

.

Copyright © 2000 ROLAND CORPORATION

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in

any form without the written permission of ROLAND

CORPORATION.

Visit the Roland US Web Site at

http://www.rolandus.com

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.

1.
Do not use this product near water — for example, near a

2.
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

3.
recommended by the manufacturer.
This product, either alone or in combination with an amplifier

4.
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

5.
does not interfere with its proper ventilation.
The product should be located away from heat sources such

6.
as radiators, heat registers, or other products that produce
heat.
The product should be connected to a power supply only of

7.
the type described in the operating instructions or as marked
on the product.

8.

The power-supply cord of the product should be unplugged
from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time.

9.

Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids
are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.

10.

The product should be serviced by qualified service
personnel when:
A.

The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or

B.

Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the
product; or

C.

The product has been exposed to rain; or

D.

The product does not appear to operate normally or
exhibits a marked change in performance; or

E.

The product has been dropped, or the enclosure
damaged.

11.

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.

For the USA

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 U.K.

WARNING:
IMPORTANT:

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying

the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:

The wire which is coloured GREEN-AND-YELLOW must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked by the

letter E or by the safety earth symbol or coloured GREEN or GREEN-AND-YELLOW.

The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.

The product which is equipped with a THREE WIRE GROUNDING TYPE LINE PLUG must be grounded.

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

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.

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

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.

U
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G

T
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I
T

S
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F
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L
Y

001

• Before using this unit, make sure to read the
instructions below, and the rest of the

User’s Guide

.

VS-1680

..........................................................................................................

002b

• Do not open or perform any internal modifica­tions on the unit. (The only exception would be
where this user’s guide provides specific instruc­tions that should be followed in order to install
user-installable options; see p. ???.)

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

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!

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

022a

• Always turn the unit off and unplug the power
cord before attempting installation of the Hard
disk drive unit or effect expansion board.

3

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

Conventions Used in This User’s Guide

101a

• The unit should be located so that its location or
position does not interfere with its proper venti­lation.

..........................................................................................................

102b

• Always grasp only the plug on the power-supply
cord when plugging into, or unplugging from, an
outlet or this unit.

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

108a

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

..........................................................................................................

109a

• Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and
unplug the power cord from the outlet (p. ???).

..........................................................................................................

110a

• Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning
in your area, pull the plug on the power cord out
of the outlet.

..........................................................................................................

115a

• When installing the hard disk drive unit (HDP88
series) or Effect expansion board (VS8F-2), remove
only the specified screws. In some countries, an
internal IDE hard drive is pre-installed at the factory.

• The icon will appear when there is significant
additional information about a topic at the specified

VS-1680 Quick Start or VS-1680 Appendices pages.

• Front panel buttons are indicated by square brackets [ ]
when not referred to using the word “button.” For
example, you may see “[STOP],” or “the STOP button.”

• The VS-1680 has two different buttons labeled PLAY. In
this user’s guide, they are differentiated as follows:

[PLAY] indicates the transport control button to begin
song playback.

[PLAY (DISPLAY)] indicates the button located to the left
of the TIME/VALUE dial.

• Some buttons have more than one label. The button label
written in white with a white line box around it (for
example, STORE) indicates the function the button
performs when [SHIFT] is pressed together with this
button. In this user’s guide, typically only the primary
button function will be indicated. However, for a few
cases, both button labels will be indicated, such as when
indicating [PLAY (DISPLAY)].

• The label for a FUNCTION button will appear directly
above the button in the display, for example, [F1
(ZOOM+)].

• Commands or questions appearing in the display are
indicated in quotes. For example, "STORE Current ?"

• The mixer section of the VS-1680 has a row of STATUS
buttons for each of the tracks. The command "Press Track
3 STATUS" means "press the STATUS button for Track 3."

• The mixer section has a row of SELECT buttons for each
of the ten inputs, and a row of SELECT buttons for each
of the 16 tracks. Input SELECT buttons will be differen­tiated from Track SELECT buttons as follows: "Press
Track 4 SELECT" or "Press Input 7 SELECT." The top row
of SELECT buttons are the Input Selects. The middle row
of buttons are the Track Selects. (The bottom row of
buttons are not SELECT buttons—they are the TRACK
STATUS buttons).

4

• This user’s guide describes the functionality of a VS-1680
using software version 2.00 or higher. You can upgrade
your VS-1680 by downloading the necessary files from
the Roland US Web site (www.rolandus.com), or by
calling Roland Customer Service at [phone], x2289.

IMPORTANT NOTES

In addition to the items listed under “IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS” and “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” on p. 2­p. 3, 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.

Memory Backup

• This unit contains a battery which powers the unit’s
memory circuits while the main power is off. When this
battery becomes weak, the message shown below will
appear in the display. Once you see this message, have
the battery replaced with a fresh one as soon as possible
to avoid the loss of all data in memory. To have the
battery replaced, consult with your retailer, the nearest
Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland
distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.

fig.00-02

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 losing 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.

• 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

5

IMPORTANT NOTES

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).

• To transport the VS-1680, pack it in its original shipping
carton, using the included packing or equivalent
material. 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-1680 shipping carton. The unit is now ready to be
transported. Moving the VS-1680 with the hard disk
installed may result in the loss of song data or damage to
the hard disk.

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 the loss of song data or damage to the hard disk.

• Turning off the power of the VS-1680

• Turning off the power of the disk drive connected with
SCSI connector

• Removing a disk from a removable disk drive connected
with SCSI connector

Shutdown (See Appendices , p. 64)

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.

The VS-1680 does not implement SCMS. This design decision
was made with the intent that SCMS should not restrict the
creation of original compositions that do not violate
copyright law. Roland will take no responsibility for any
infringement of copyright that you may commit in using the
VS-1680.

SCMS (See Appendices , p. 64)

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-1680. These damages may
include but are not limited to the following events which can
occur when using the VS-1680.

• Any loss of profit that may occur to you.

• Permanent loss of your music or data.

• Inability to continue using the VS-1680 itself or a
connected device.

Removable Disk Drive (See Appendices , p. 64)
When the VS-1680 MIDI/DISK indicator or disk drive busy

indicator is lit, it means that data is being written to or from
the hard disk. If you are using a removable disk drive,
confirm that this indicator is not lit before removing disks.

• While using the VS-1680, 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. However, if installation on a flat surface
is not possible, the unit may be installed at a slight angle.

• 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

6

About the License Agreement

The VS-1680 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.

Table of Contents

USING THE UNIT SAFELY......................................................................3

IMPORTANT NOTES ...............................................................................5

Power Supply..............................................................................................................................................5

Placement.....................................................................................................................................................5

Maintenance................................................................................................................................................ 5

Repairs and Data ........................................................................................................................................ 5

Memory Backup ......................................................................................................................................... 5

Additional Precautions..............................................................................................................................5

Handling the Disk Drive ...........................................................................................................................6

Concerning Copyright............................................................................................................................... 6

Disclaimer of Liability................................................................................................................................6

About the License Agreement.................................................................................................................. 6

Table of Contents....................................................................................7

Preparations..........................................................................................17

About the Package Contents................................................................................................................... 17

Main Features............................................................................................................................................ 17

The Latest in Compact Home Studio Environments............................................................... 17

Simple Operation ..........................................................................................................................18

Connectivity...................................................................................................................................18

Major Options................................................................................................................................18

Front and Rear Panels..........................................................................19

Mixer Section............................................................................................................................................. 19

Recorder Section....................................................................................................................................... 21

Rear Panel..................................................................................................................................................23

Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-1680 Terminology)..........................25

Saving and Managing Data..................................................................................................................... 25

Managing Disk Contents (Partitioning)..................................................................................... 25

The Location Where a Performance is Recorded (Song).........................................................25

Sources, Tracks, and Channels....................................................................................................26

Takes and Phrases.........................................................................................................................26

About Events ................................................................................................................................. 26

About Button Names....................................................................................................................27

Mixer Section............................................................................................................................................. 27

Signal Flow (Busses).....................................................................................................................27

Input Mixer ....................................................................................................................................29

Track Mixer.................................................................................................................................... 30

Switching the Fader Functions....................................................................................................30

Master Block...................................................................................................................................31

Recorder Section....................................................................................................................................... 31

Differences from a Tape-Type MTR...........................................................................................31

Track Minutes and Recording Time...........................................................................................32

Auxiliary Tracks for Each Track .................................................................................................33

Effects Section ........................................................................................................................................... 34

About the Effect Expansion Board ............................................................................................. 34

Connecting Effects ........................................................................................................................ 34

7

Table of Contents

Chapter 2 Basic Operation...................................................................35

Before You Begin ......................................................................................................................................35

Turning On the Power.................................................................................................................. 35

If You Have Trouble Understanding Displays or Operations ............................................... 35

Operating the VS-1680.............................................................................................................................35

Basic Navigation.......................................................................................................................................36

Setting the Internal Clock........................................................................................................................37

Before You Finish ..................................................................................................................................... 38

Saving Your Song..........................................................................................................................38

Turning Off the Power ................................................................................................................. 38

Restarting ....................................................................................................................................... 39

Chapter 3 Playback Operations...........................................................41

The Display................................................................................................................................................41

Display Regions............................................................................................................................. 41

Selecting a Playlist Display..........................................................................................................42

Function Buttons (While on the Playlist Display).................................................................... 42

Mixer Channel Display............................................................................................................................43

Changing Track Status............................................................................................................................. 43

Muting and Soloing.................................................................................................................................. 44

Muting Tracks................................................................................................................................ 44

Muting Inputs and Effect Returns.............................................................................................. 44

Quick Soloing.................................................................................................................................44

Solo Mode....................................................................................................................................... 44

Using Locators ..........................................................................................................................................45

Storing and Recalling Locators ................................................................................................... 45

Changing the Locator Bank......................................................................................................... 45

Editing Stored Locators................................................................................................................45

Using Markers........................................................................................................................................... 46

Storing a Marker............................................................................................................................ 46

Locate to a Marker Using PREVIOUS and NEXT.................................................................... 46

Editing Marker Values ................................................................................................................. 47

Clearing Markers........................................................................................................................... 47

Other Ways to Move In a Song............................................................................................................... 48

Changing Playback Position Using JUMP.................................................................................48

Change Playback Position Using TIME/VALUE Dial............................................................ 48

Move to the Beginning or End of a Song Using FF and RW...................................................48

Store Your Song........................................................................................................................................48

Protecting Songs (Song Protect) .............................................................................................................49

Selecting and Loading Songs..................................................................................................................49

Chapter 4 Recording Operations.........................................................51

Preparing for a New Recording ............................................................................................................. 51

Create a New Song........................................................................................................................ 51

The Recording and Mixing Process.......................................................................................................54

Connecting Instruments.......................................................................................................................... 55

Recording to the Tracks...........................................................................................................................55

Recording on Other Tracks (Overdubbing).......................................................................................... 58

Recording Using Different Virtual Tracks (V-Tracks) ........................................................................ 58

Saving a Recorded Performance (Song Store)......................................................................................58

Track STATUS Buttons............................................................................................................................58

Manual Punch-In/Punch-Out................................................................................................................ 59

Loop Recording ........................................................................................................................................ 62

Undo and Redo.........................................................................................................................................64

Track Bouncing......................................................................................................................................... 64

Track Bouncing With Effects .................................................................................................................. 66

Recording a Digital Source......................................................................................................................66

8

Table of Contents

Using the Metronome.............................................................................................................................. 67

Saving Your Recordings.......................................................................................................................... 68

Chapter 5 Using the Digital Mixer........................................................69

Signal Flow (Busses).................................................................................................................................70

Signal Busses in the VS-1680................................................................................................................... 70

RECORDING Bus ......................................................................................................................... 70

MIX Bus ..........................................................................................................................................70

EFFECT Bus ................................................................................................................................... 70

AUX Bus......................................................................................................................................... 71

Input Mixer................................................................................................................................................ 71

Track Mixer ............................................................................................................................................... 72

Fader/Mute Button..................................................................................................................................73

Method One: FADER/MUTE Button.........................................................................................73

Method Two: Input Mixer Screen...............................................................................................73

Master Block..............................................................................................................................................73

Determining Output ................................................................................................................................ 74

MONITOR Output Connectors................................................................................................... 74

AUX Connectors............................................................................................................................74

Digital Out Connectors.................................................................................................................75

Direct Out Connectors..................................................................................................................75

Mixer Routing........................................................................................................................................... 76

Sources Assigned to Tracks......................................................................................................... 76

Input Mixer Default Assignment........................................................................................................... 76

Stereo Link.................................................................................................................................................77

Unlink Stereo Mixer Channels....................................................................................................77

Link Adjacent Mixer Channels....................................................................................................77

Adjust the Levels of Linked Channels....................................................................................... 77

Adjusting the Panning of Stereo Linked Channels.................................................................. 78

Linking the Faders of Two or More Channels (Fader Group)................................................78

Selecting V-Tracks.........................................................................................................................79

Using the Equalizer (EQ)......................................................................................................................... 79

Attenuation ....................................................................................................................................81

Phase ...............................................................................................................................................81

Copying Mixer Settings........................................................................................................................... 82

Mixer Scenes.............................................................................................................................................. 83

Scene................................................................................................................................................83

EZ Routing.....................................................................................................................................83

Chapter 6 Mixer Channel Strip Detail..................................................85

Input Mixer................................................................................................................................................ 85

[F1 (MIX)] MIX Bus Enable/Pan................................................................................................. 85

[F2 (Low)], [F3 (Mid)], and [F4 (High)] Equalizer....................................................................85

[F6 (PRM.V)] Parameter View/[F6 (CH.V)] Channel View....................................................85

[F1 (EFX1)] Effect 1 Send..............................................................................................................85

[F2 (EFX2)] Effect 2 Send..............................................................................................................86

[F3 (EFX3)] Effect 3 Send..............................................................................................................86

[F4 (EFX4)] Effect 4 Send..............................................................................................................86

[F5 (AUX)] AUX Send ..................................................................................................................86

[F1 (Ef1In)] Effect 1 Insert ............................................................................................................ 86

[F2 (Ef2In)] Effect 2 Insert ............................................................................................................ 87

[F3 (Ef3In)] Effect 3 Insert ............................................................................................................ 87

[F4 (Ef4In)] Effect 4 Insert ............................................................................................................ 88

[F1 (Link)] Stereo Link.................................................................................................................. 88

[F2 (ATT)] Attenuation................................................................................................................. 88

[F3 (Phase)] PHASE ......................................................................................................................88

[F4 (Group)] FADER GROUP .....................................................................................................88

9

Table of Contents

[F1 (Meter)] METER......................................................................................................................88

[F3 (Solo)] SOLO............................................................................................................................88

[F4 (Mute)] MUTE.........................................................................................................................88

[F5 (Fader)] FADER ...................................................................................................................... 89

Track Mixer ............................................................................................................................................... 89

[F1 (MIX)] MIX Bus Enable/Pan................................................................................................. 89

[F2 (Low)], [F3 (Mid)], and [F4 (High)] Equalizer....................................................................89

[F5 (V.Trk)] V-Track Select...........................................................................................................89

[F6 (PRM.V)] Parameter View/[F6 (CH.V)] Channel View....................................................89

[F1(EFX1)] Effect 1 Send...............................................................................................................89

[F2 (EFX2)] Effect 2 Send..............................................................................................................90

[F3 (EFX3)] Effect 3 Send..............................................................................................................90

F4 (EFX4)] Effect 4 Send............................................................................................................... 90

[F5 (AUX)] AUX Send ..................................................................................................................90

[F1 (Ef1In)] Effect 1 Insert ............................................................................................................ 90

[F2 (Ef2In)] Effect 2 Insert ............................................................................................................ 91

[F3 (Ef3In)] Effect 3 Insert ............................................................................................................ 91

[F4(Ef4In)] Effect 4 Insert ............................................................................................................. 92

[F1 (Link)] Stereo Link.................................................................................................................. 92

[F2 (ATT)] Attenuation................................................................................................................. 92

[F3 (Phase)] PHASE ......................................................................................................................92

[F4 (Group)] FADER GROUP .....................................................................................................92

[F1 (Meter)] METER......................................................................................................................92

[F2 (Stats)] STATUS ...................................................................................................................... 92

[F3 (Solo)] SOLO............................................................................................................................93

[F4 (Mute)] MUTE.........................................................................................................................93

[F5 (Fader)] FADER ...................................................................................................................... 93

Master Block..............................................................................................................................................93

[F1 (MST)] MASTER..................................................................................................................... 93

[F2 (MON)] MONITOR................................................................................................................93

[F3 (AUX.A)] AUX A.................................................................................................................... 93

[F4 (AUX.B)] AUX B ..................................................................................................................... 93

[F5 (DOUT1)] DIGITAL OUT 1................................................................................................... 93

[F6 (DOUT2)] DIGITAL OUT 2................................................................................................... 94

[F1 (Ef1In)] Effect 1 Insert ............................................................................................................ 94

[F2 (Ef2In)] Effect 2 Insert ............................................................................................................ 94

[F3 (Ef3In)] Effect 3 Insert ............................................................................................................ 94

[F4 (Ef4In)] Effect 4 Insert ............................................................................................................ 95

[F5 (DIR)] DIRECT OUT .............................................................................................................. 95

[F1 (EFX1)] Effect 1 Master Send.................................................................................................95

[F2 (EFX2)] Effect 2 Master Send.................................................................................................95

[F3 (EFX3)] Effect 3 Master Send.................................................................................................95

[F4 (EFX4)] Effect 4 Master Send.................................................................................................95

[F5 (AUX)] AUX Master Send.....................................................................................................96

Chapter 7 Using Internal Effects (VS8F-2)..........................................97

Location of Effects ....................................................................................................................................97

Procedure for Using Effects ....................................................................................................................97

Selecting Effect Patches............................................................................................................................97

Selecting a Preset Patch................................................................................................................ 97

Creating and Saving User Effect Patches...................................................................................98

Effect Types............................................................................................................................................... 99

Insert Effects................................................................................................................................... 99

Effect Send-and-Return Loops.................................................................................................. 100

Making the Effect Connection...................................................................................................100

10

Table of Contents

Connecting Effects..................................................................................................................................100

Connecting Insert Effects in the Input and Track Mixer....................................................... 100

Connecting Insert Effects in the Master Block........................................................................ 101

Three Insert Effect Examples.....................................................................................................102

Connecting Effect Send-and-Return Loops.............................................................................103

Effects Return Section.................................................................................................................104

Two Examples of Using Effect Send-and-Return Loops.......................................................104

Using Effects While Recording.............................................................................................................105

Listening to an Insert Effect While Recording........................................................................ 106

Listening to a Loop Effect While Recording ........................................................................... 106

Recording Insert Effects ............................................................................................................. 106

Recording an Effect Send-and-Return Loop ...........................................................................107

Recording Stereo Effects........................................................................................................................108

Three Important Reminders About Using Effects.............................................................................108

Chapter 8 EZ Routing .........................................................................109

Using EZ Routing Step Editing ............................................................................................................109

Setting Up for Recording Using Step Editing......................................................................... 110

Setting Up for Mixing Using Step Editing............................................................................... 113

Setting Up for Bouncing Using Step Editing...........................................................................115

Using EZ Routing Quick Editing .........................................................................................................119

Using EZ Routing Templates................................................................................................................ 121

Saving an EZ Routing Template............................................................................................... 121

Recalling an EZ Routing Template...........................................................................................122

Deleting an EZ Routing Template............................................................................................ 122

Chapter 9 Automix..............................................................................123

Mixer Automation..................................................................................................................................123

Using Automix........................................................................................................................................ 124

Adjust the Display for Automix................................................................................................124

Realtime Automix...................................................................................................................................124

Realtime Automix of Track Faders...........................................................................................124

Realtime Automix of Input Faders...........................................................................................125

Automating the Master Stereo Mix and Monitor Output.....................................................125

Automating Effect Returns........................................................................................................ 125

Snapshot Automation............................................................................................................................ 126

Snap Mode ................................................................................................................................... 126

Automating Effect Changes..................................................................................................................127

Gradation......................................................................................................................................127

Two Gradation Examples .......................................................................................................... 128

Updating Automix......................................................................................................................129

Understanding Fader Match ..................................................................................................... 129

Editing Automix Data (Micro Edit)..........................................................................................130

Erasing Automix Data on Specified Channels........................................................................ 136

Erasing Automix Data................................................................................................................136

Saving and Exiting Automix .....................................................................................................137

Chapter 10 Track and Phrase Editing ...............................................139

Track Editing...........................................................................................................................................139

Track Erase...................................................................................................................................139

Track Cut...................................................................................................................................... 140

Track Move .................................................................................................................................. 141

Track Copy...................................................................................................................................143

Track Insert .................................................................................................................................. 144

Track Exchange............................................................................................................................145

Track Time Compression/Expansion......................................................................................146

Track Name..................................................................................................................................148

11

Table of Contents

Track Import ................................................................................................................................149

Phrase Editing.........................................................................................................................................150

Phrase Delete ............................................................................................................................... 150

Dividing a Phrase (Phrase Divide/Split)................................................................................. 150

Phrase Move.................................................................................................................................153

Phrase Copy................................................................................................................................. 153

Phrase Trim In .............................................................................................................................153

Phrase Trim Out.......................................................................................................................... 153

Phrase New.................................................................................................................................. 154

Naming Takes.............................................................................................................................. 155

Deleting a Take (Delete).............................................................................................................156

Chapter 11 Editing Tips & Tools........................................................157

Editing Operations................................................................................................................................. 157

Steps for Track Editing .......................................................................................................................... 157

Step 1: Set the Edit Points...........................................................................................................157

Step 2: Perform the Button-Pushes to Complete the Edit ..................................................... 161

Track Editing vs. Phrase Editing..........................................................................................................162

An Editing Note of Caution..................................................................................................................163

Practical Editing Application................................................................................................................ 163

Chapter 12 Song Editing ....................................................................165

Song Arrange .......................................................................................................................................... 165

Song Split.................................................................................................................................................166

Song Combine.........................................................................................................................................167

Chapter 13 Mastering .........................................................................169

Mastering.................................................................................................................................................169

Mixing Down to Mastering Tracks...................................................................................................... 169

Mastering Tracks Status Shortcuts ........................................................................................... 171

Playing Back the Mastering Tracks...................................................................................................... 172

Mixing Down While Inserting Effects................................................................................................. 173

To Prohibit Digital Copying...................................................................................................... 174

Connecting the CD-R/CD-RW Drive.................................................................................................. 175

Creating an Audio CD........................................................................................................................... 175

Items Necessary for Creating an Audio CD............................................................................ 175

Creating a Master Stereo Mix....................................................................................................176

Finalizing......................................................................................................................................176

Assembling Multiple Songs for CD Recording..................................................................................177

Copyright Protection..................................................................................................................177

CD Track Numbers.....................................................................................................................177

Writing Songs to CD-R Discs .................................................................................................... 178

Adding a Song to a Partially Recorded Disc...........................................................................180

Arranging and Recording Multiple Songs to a CD-R Disc................................................... 180

CD Player Function................................................................................................................................181

To Create an Audio CD-RW Using a Roland-Approved CD-RW Drive............................182

Chapter 14 Other Useful Functions...................................................185

Vari Pitch ................................................................................................................................................. 185

Numerics/ASCII .................................................................................................................................... 185

Entering Numbers....................................................................................................................... 185

Entering Letters........................................................................................................................... 185

Stereo Input............................................................................................................................................. 185

Removing a Direct Current Offset from the MIX Bus....................................................................... 186

Using the MONITOR Knob to Adjust Channel Panning ................................................................. 186

Shut Down and Restart.......................................................................................................................... 187

Turning Off the Power ............................................................................................................... 187

12

Table of Contents

Chapter 15 Using External MIDI Devices..........................................189

Synchronizing with MIDI Sequencers................................................................................................. 189

Items Necessary for Synchronization....................................................................................... 189

Master and Slave......................................................................................................................... 189

Using MTC...................................................................................................................................189

Synchronization Using the VS-1680 as the Master................................................................. 190

Synchronization Using the VS-1680 as the Slave....................................................................191

Using MTC Offset .......................................................................................................................191

Using the Sync Track (Master).................................................................................................. 192

Recording MIDI Clock Messages.............................................................................................. 193

Synchronized Operation............................................................................................................193

Using the Tempo Map................................................................................................................194

Synchronized Operation............................................................................................................195

Other Methods to Generate A Sync Track or Tempo Map...................................................195

Using MIDI Controller Messages......................................................................................................... 198

Switching Track Status............................................................................................................... 198

Switching Scenes......................................................................................................................... 199

Switching Effects......................................................................................................................... 199

Adjusting Effects.........................................................................................................................199

Using an External MIDI Sound Source to Play the Metronome...................................................... 200

Using an External MIDI Device to Adjust the Mixer (Compu Mix)............................................... 201

Preparations for Compu Mix.....................................................................................................203

Recording with Compu Mix......................................................................................................203

MIDI Machine Control...........................................................................................................................204

Chapter 16 Using Software Sequencers...........................................205

Common Terms...................................................................................................................................... 205

MIDI Clock...................................................................................................................................205

MIDI Time Code (MTC).............................................................................................................205

MIDI Machine Control (MMC)................................................................................................. 205

Song Position Pointer (SPP).......................................................................................................205

Synchronization........................................................................................................................... 205

Sequencer Tracks......................................................................................................................... 205

MIDI Interface..............................................................................................................................205

Specific Software Applications.............................................................................................................206

Cakewalk Pro Audio .................................................................................................................. 206

Cubase VST.................................................................................................................................. 207

Logic Audio..................................................................................................................................208

Digital Performer ........................................................................................................................ 209

Vision DSP....................................................................................................................................210

Chapter 17 Using Hard Drives ...........................................................213

General Information Regarding Hard Drives.................................................................................... 213

Drive Partitioning ....................................................................................................................... 213

Recording Times vs. Sample Rate/Recording Modes...........................................................214

Checking Remaining Space .......................................................................................................214

Recovering Drive Space......................................................................................................................... 214

Song Optimize............................................................................................................................. 214

Song Erase.................................................................................................................................... 215

Using External Hard Drives..................................................................................................................216

Selecting an External Hard Drive .............................................................................................216

SCSI Termination ........................................................................................................................216

Connecting a Fixed External Hard Drive ................................................................................216

Connecting a Removable External Hard Drive......................................................................217

Initializing (Formatting) the Drive...........................................................................................217

Saving a Song to an External Drive.......................................................................................... 218

Loading a Song from an External Drive Using Song Copy Playable.................................. 221

13

Table of Contents

Drive Select .................................................................................................................................. 222

Loading a Song from External Disks using Song Archive Extract ...................................... 222

Hard Drive Maintenance....................................................................................................................... 223

Drive Initialize............................................................................................................................. 223

Drive Check..................................................................................................................................224

Check Drive Reliability using Surface Scan ............................................................................225

Backup Options ...................................................................................................................................... 226

DAT Backup................................................................................................................................. 226

External Removable Drive.........................................................................................................226

Roland VS-CDR Backup............................................................................................................. 226

Chapter 18 CD Backup .......................................................................227

Connecting the CD-R/CD-RW Drive.................................................................................................. 227

CD-R Backup and Recover.................................................................................................................... 227

CD-R Backup ............................................................................................................................... 228

CD-R Recover .............................................................................................................................. 229

Chapter 19 Using a DAT Recorder (DAT Backup) ...........................231

Before Backing Up to DAT.................................................................................................................... 231

Items Necessary for DAT Backup............................................................................................. 231

About the Devices Used in DAT Backup ................................................................................ 231

Saving Song Data to DAT (Backup).....................................................................................................232

Recovering Data from a DAT ...............................................................................................................233

Canceling the Recover Operation.............................................................................................235

Canceling a DAT Recovery Operation in Progress................................................................235

When an Error is Found in the Song Data............................................................................... 235

Checking DAT Tape Contents..............................................................................................................235

DAT Backup Verification ......................................................................................................................236

Chapter 20 Compatibility with Other VS Recorders ........................239

Drive Compatibility ...............................................................................................................................239

VS-880/880EX Æ VS-1680.......................................................................................................... 239

VS-1680 Æ VS-880.......................................................................................................................239

VS-840/840EX ´ VS-1680............................................................................................................ 239

Song Import............................................................................................................................................. 239

Song Export............................................................................................................................................. 241

Chapter 21 System and Global Settings...........................................243

System Settings for Each Song.............................................................................................................. 243

Fader Match .................................................................................................................................243

Peak Hold.....................................................................................................................................243

Remaining Recording Time.......................................................................................................243

Foot Switch Settings.................................................................................................................... 244

Global Settings........................................................................................................................................ 245

Shift Lock...................................................................................................................................... 245

Numerics Type............................................................................................................................245

Measure Display..........................................................................................................................246

SCSI ID Number..........................................................................................................................246

IDE Drive Switch......................................................................................................................... 247

Input Peak Level..........................................................................................................................247

Previous/Next Switch................................................................................................................247

Adjusting the Button Sensitivity...............................................................................................248

Fan Control .................................................................................................................................. 248

Play and Record Settings.......................................................................................................................249

Record Monitor............................................................................................................................249

Marker Stop..................................................................................................................................249

Fade Length ................................................................................................................................. 249

14

Table of Contents

Mixer and System Initialize .................................................................................................................. 249

Alarm Clock ............................................................................................................................................ 250

Chapter 22 Specific Applications......................................................253

Syncing Two VS-1680s with MTC and MMC .................................................................................... 254

Settings for the Master VS.......................................................................................................... 254

Settings for the Slave VS.............................................................................................................255

Syncing a VS-1680 and a VS-880/880EX.............................................................................................255

Syncing the VS-880 to the VS-1680 Using MTC and MMC ..................................................255

Using an External MIDI Device to Control the Mixer (Compu Mix) ............................................. 256

Correspondence Between MIDI Channels and Controller Numbers..................................256

Preparations for Compu Mix.....................................................................................................258

Recording with Compu Mix......................................................................................................258

Synchronizing with Video Equipment................................................................................................258

Using External Effects Units .................................................................................................................259

Chapter 23 Frequently Asked Questions..........................................261

How Do I Control the Stereo Tracks Independently? ........................................................... 261

Why Do I Hear the Inputs All of the Time? ............................................................................261

What is the FADER/MUTE Button Used For?.......................................................................261

How Do I Burn Audio CDs?...................................................................................................... 261

How Do I Restore the Mixer Parameters to the Factory Settings?....................................... 263

How Do I Create a Tempo Map?.............................................................................................. 263

How Do I Use Automix?............................................................................................................264

How Do I Create a User Template in EZ Routing?................................................................264

How Do I Bounce Tracks?..........................................................................................................265

How Do I Bounce Tracks with Effects?.................................................................................... 266

Why Can’t I Hear My Effects?................................................................................................... 266

How Do I Use the Scrub and Waveform Display Features?................................................. 267

How Do I Record a Stereo Signal?............................................................................................268

How Do I Know How Much Time I Have Left On My Hard Drive,

and How Big Is My Song?................................................................................................268

How Do I Import VS-880/880EX and VS-840/840EX Songs?..............................................268

How Do I Erase the Demo Songs?............................................................................................269

Index.....................................................................................................271

15

Table of Contents

16

Preparations

About the Package Contents

The following items are included with the VS-1680. Please
check to make sure you have all the items.

• VS-1680

• AC cord

• VS-1680 Quick Start

• VS-1680 Owner’s Manual

• VS-1680 Appendices

Main Features

measure drum pattern any number of times, or have the
same chorus both at the beginning and end of a song.

The VS-1680 uses “non-destructive editing.” This allows you
to cancel and recover up to 999 previous recording and
editing operations (Undo/Redo).

The internal clock runs on battery power, so it continues to
function even after the VS-1680’s power is turned off. This
allows you to manage your songs by “time stamp,” the time
and date of recording that is registered in the song data.

Digital Mixer Section

Preparations

The Latest in Compact Home Studio Environments

The VS-1680 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, to adding effects, and on to creating the master
data for playing through a PA or mastering on a CD, you can
easily control every aspect of the recording process with the
VS-1680 in your home studio.

Disk Recorder Section

The digital disk recorder section provides 16 playback tracks,
and allows eight tracks to be recorded simultaneously. Each
track features 16 virtual tracks (V-Tracks), providing a total
of 256 tracks altogether. This means that you can record
multiple takes, make temporary mixes when editing and
create songs that require numerous tracks, all with room to
spare.

The VS-1680’s recording functions were designed for use
with professional digital equipment—DAT recorders, digital
mixers, digital effects, etc. You can record and edit with top­quality sound, losing none of that quality in the playback.

You can instantly find the location of sections in a song you
want to hear repeatedly (locator), or places that you wish to
record over by placing marks at such points (marker). These
markers are recalled by a simple procedure, and you will
never have to wait for any rewinding or fast-forwarding.

Sounds are organized in phrases. Copying, moving, and
inserting these phrase units (using Phrase Edit), as well as
many other editing processes, are possible with the VS-1680.
For example, you can create “break beats” by copying a four-

You can store all mixer settings, including fader levels, pan,
and effects. Stored settings can be recalled very simply, a
convenient feature when adjusting balances during mixdown
and comparing mixes with effects.

Changes in settings over time, such as fader levels and pan,
can also be stored (Automix), allowing you to perfect fade­ins and fade-outs in your mixes.

You can easily set up the VS-1680 for different situations
such as recording, track bouncing, and mixdown using its
handy EZ Routing feature.

Effects Section

The VS-1680 features the optional VS8F-2 effect expansion
board. Up to two of these effect expansion boards can be
installed in the VS-1680. With the VS8F-2 effect installed in
the VS-1680, up to four high-quality stereo effects will be
available for your use.

The VS8F-2 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
and Roland’s exclusive COSM™ speaker modeling that you
can use when the VS-1680 is connected to digital speakers
such as Roland’s DS-90A Powered Monitors. These effects
are organized as 34 “algorithms” from which you can easily
create new sounds.

The VS8F-2 provides 240 read-only effects, or “preset
patches,” that are designed for various uses. In addition, the
VS8F-2 provides 200 read-and-write effects, “user patches,”
that can be customized and re-saved. As a result, you can
instantly switch between a wide variety of effects simply by
selecting a preset or user patch.

17

Preparations

Simple Operation

The VS-1680 can be operated as easily as a conventional
multitrack recorder. You will be able to enjoy all of the
advantages of a home studio from the day of purchase.

The VS-1680 uses the well-known graphics (“icons”) made
famous by Roland’s VG-8 and V-Drums. The large, full-dot
graphic display is backlit and inclined, so it is easy to read
when used on stage, or wherever high visibility is required.

Connectivity

A wide variety of connectors and jacks are provided,
including two balanced XLR connectors. The VS-1680
features a wide input sensitivity range—from mic level (-50
dBu) to line level (+4 dBu)—and phantom power, allowing
you to plug in condenser mics that require external power.

There are six sets of balanced input jacks, handling a wide
input sensitivity range, from line level (+4 dBu) to mic level
(-50 dBu). Furthermore, you can choose either the high-input
(GUITAR (Hi-Z)) jack for directly plugging in an electric
guitar, or the INPUT 8 jack.

Besides the RCA phono type (stereo) MASTER jacks, (stereo)
AUX A and AUX B jacks, and (stereo) MONITOR jacks are
also provided. You can monitor an effect send and other
outputs without affecting the MASTER OUT signal.

Major Options

Internal 2.5” IDE Hard Disk:

If your VS-1680 does not already have an internal hard disk,
we recommend that you install one. An internal hard disk
makes your entire VS-1680 studio more compact and easier
to transport, and eliminates connection problems that can
occur with an external disk drive. It is also required for
creating audio CDs directly from the VS-1680.

* In order to take full advantage of the VS-1680’s potential—the

number of tracks that can be recorded/played simultaneously
and recording capacity—we recommend that you use a hard
disk that is 2.1 GB in size or greater.

CD-R Drive (approved by Roland):

A CD-R or CD-RW drive connected with a SCSI connector.
Such a device allows you to create songs on the VS-1680 and
burn them onto your own original audio CDs. Additionally,
you can use a CD-R for backing up song data to inexpensive
CD-R discs.

VS8F-2:

An effect expansion board that can be installed in the VS-

1680. You can install two of these boards, each of which
supplies two stereo effects, for a total of four stereo effects or
eight mono effects.

* The VS8F-1 effect expansion board is for use with the VS-880.

It cannot be used in the VS-1680.

The VS-1680 provides both coaxial and optical digital I/O
connectors. With these, you can digitally connect the VS-1680
to 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 the VS-1680 to external SCSI devices such as a
Zip drive or CD-R drive.

MIDI IN and MIDI OUT/THRU connectors are also
provided. You can synchronize the VS-1680 with an external
MIDI sequencer, use the MIDI sequencer to control the VS­1680’s mixer, sound an external MIDI sound generator with
the metronome, and more.

Besides tracks for recording audio signals, the VS-1680 has a
sync track for storing MIDI clock messages. You can even
synchronize MIDI sequencers that are not compatible with
MTC (MIDI Time Code) or MMC (MIDI Machine Control).

18

Front and Rear Panels

Mixer Section

fig.00-03

Front & Rear

Panels

1. PEAK Indicators

Use these indicators to confirm the correct recording level as set with the INPUT knobs. The indicators are set at the factory to
illuminate when the input audio reaches -6 dB. You can change the peak level indicator setting so the indicators illuminate when
audio reaches -3 dB, -6 dB or clipping (p. 247).

2. INPUT Knobs

These knobs adjust the sensitivity of the INPUT jacks 1 through 8. Turn the knob fully clockwise for mic level (-50 dBu), or fully
counter-clockwise for line level (+4 dBu).

3. SELECT/CH EDIT

(Select/Channel Edit) buttons
Use these buttons to change Input Mixer settings for the analog inputs, digital inputs, stereo inputs, and effect returns. The

currently selected channel’s indicators will light.

1–8:
DIGITAL: Digital input
ST IN:
EFFECT 1/3 RTN: Effect 1 and 3 Return

Each channel (1–8)

Stereo in

19

(

Front and Rear Panels

EFFECT 2/4 RTN: Effect 2 and 4 Return

You can assign an input to be recorded to a track by holding
down the track’s STATUS button, then pressing the desired
SELECT button for the input or source you wish to record.

When numerics are combined with alphabetical characters
([NUMERIC/ASCII]), alphabetical characters can be input
directly (Song Name, etc.).

4. SELECT/CH EDIT

Select/Channel Edit) buttons

Use these buttons when you wish to change Track Mixer
settings and to change track channels. The currently selected
channel’s indicators are lit.

1–15/16: Each channel (1–15/16)

When you press these buttons while holding down the
STATUS button, you can select any desired bouncing
destination track.

When numerics are combined with alphabetical characters
([NUMERIC/ASCII]), alphabetical characters can be input
directly (Song Name, etc.).

7. MONITOR Knob

This adjusts the volume level output from the MONITOR
jacks.

8. PHONES Knob

This knob adjusts the volume of the headphones.

9. AUTOMIX Button

This button switches the Automix function on and off. The
button indicator lights when Automix is on.

10. EZ ROUTING Button

This button invokes the EZ Routing screen.

11. EDIT/SOLO Button

Press this button to make block settings for the master
section of the mixer.

To use the Solo function to monitor only a specific channel,
press this button while holding down the SELECT/CH EDIT
button.

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 track.

PLAY (green):

The track assigned to the channel will play back.

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.

12. FADER/MUTE Button

Each press of this button alternately assigns use of the
channel faders to the Input Mixer or to the Track Mixer. The
button indicator shows the faders’ current status.

To mute the channel, press this button while holding down
the SELECT/CH EDIT button.

13. Master Fader

Use this fader to adjust the overall output level.

6. Channel Faders

Use these faders to adjust the volume level of each channel or
track.

20

Recorder Section

fig.00-04

Front and Rear Panels

Front & Rear

Panels

1. Graphic Display

This displays shows various data related to the current status of the VS-1680 during recording, playback, editing, changing its
settings, and so on.

2. FUNCTION Button

This button switches the display screen and executes operations.
The function currently assigned to each button appears at the bottom of the display.

3. PAGE (JUMP) Button

This button switches pages for screens that consist of several pages.
When [SHIFT] is held down together with this button, the Locator Jump screen is displayed.

4. PREVIEW Button

Press this button to use the Preview function that plays back a specific amount of time before and after the current location.

5. LOCATOR/SCENE Button

Pressing this button allows you to store or recall locators and markers or to store or recall Scenes (mixer settings).

21

Front and Rear Panels

PREVIOUS:

Recalls the most recent start or end point of a phrase. Pressed
with [SHIFT], this button recalls the previous marker.

NEXT:

Recalls the next start or end point of a phrase. Pressed with
[SHIFT], this button recalls the next marker.

TAP:

Press this button to set markers.

BANK/9:

Pressing this with the LOCATOR buttons (1–8) selects the
locator bank.

SCENE/0:

This is pressed when storing, recalling, and deleting Scenes.

CLEAR (Back Space):

This button deletes locators, markers, and Scenes.

NUMERICS/ASCII:

Press this when you want to use the STATUS and LOCATOR
buttons for 10-key entry of Western numerals.

1–8:

These select a locator or Scene.

10. EXT SYNC (External Sync) Button

Press this button to designate the VS-1680 or an external
MIDI device as the master, or main, controlling
synchronization device. With the VS-1680 selected as the
master, the external MIDI device functions as the slave unit;
with the external MIDI device is selected as the master, the
VS-1680 functions as the slave unit.

11. CURSOR Buttons

Normally (i.e. in Play mode), these buttons select the unit of
time measurement. When making settings (i.e. in Edit mode),
use these buttons to select parameters.

12. PLAY (DISPLAY) Button

Press this button to return to the screen that appears when
the VS-1680 is first turned on (normal playback status).

13. TIME/VALUE Dial

In normal (playback) mode, this dial adjusts the current time
for playback. When making settings (i.e. when editing), use
this dial to change parameter values.

6. Transport Control Buttons

These buttons 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:

STOP: Stops recording or playback of the song.
PLAY: Starts recording or playback from the current

REC: Press this button to record a song.

While this button is held down, the current time is
moved forward. This corresponds to the fast­forward button on a tape recorder.

time.

7. CONTRAST Knob

Use this to adjust the brightness of the display screen.

8. VARI PITCH Button

Press this button when you wish to adjust the VS-1680’s
playback speed (Vari Pitch function).

9. 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 occur, the indicator lights orange.

14. LOOP Button

This button turns Loop Recording on and off. Pressed
together with [LOCATOR], it specifies the range to be
recorded in Loop Recording.

15. AUTO PUNCH Button

This button turns Auto Punch-In Recording on and off.
Pressed with the LOCATOR button, it specifies the range to
be recorded in Auto Punch-In Recording.

16. 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 Undo operation (Redo function).

17. SHIFT Button

This button is pressed in conjunction with other buttons to
access additional functions of those buttons.

18. ENTER/YES Button

This is pressed to execute the current operation or select the
current screen.

19. EXIT/NO Button

This is pressed to cancel the current operation or exit the
current screen.

22

Front and Rear Panels

Rear Panel

fig.00-05

Front & Rear

Panels

1. POWER Switch

This switch turns the VS-1680’s power on and off. See Chapter 2 .

2. AC IN (AC Inlet)

Connect the included power cable here.

3. SCSI Connector

This is a DB-25 type SCSI connector for connecting SCSI devices such as an external hard disk, removable media, or a CD-R.

This connector is intended only for SCSI devices. If you connect any other other type of device to this jack, you may cause serious damage to
the VS-1680 and the connected device.

4. MIDI Connectors (IN, OUT/THRU)

Connect external MIDI devices (MIDI sequencers, MIDI controllers, etc.) here.

IN: This connector receives MIDI messages. Connect it to the MIDI OUT connector of an external MIDI device.
OUT/THRU: This connector can be used either as a MIDI OUT or as a MIDI THRU jack. With the factory settings, it will function

as a MIDI OUT connector, which means it is set to transmit MIDI messages generated by the VS-1680.

5. PHONES Jack

Connect your headphones (not supplied) here. The PHONES jack outputs the same signal as the MONITOR jack, and is affected
by the Master Fader setting, as well as the position of the MONITOR and PHONES knobs.

6. MONITOR Jacks (L, R)

RCA-phono-type analog audio output jacks. With the factory settings, all signals output from the MASTER OUT jacks also output
from the MONITOR jacks. This is determined by the block settings of the mixer’s master section and the settings of each channel.

23

Front and Rear Panels

7. AUX B Jacks (L, R)

8. AUX A Jacks (L, R)

RCA-phono-type analog audio output jacks. With the factory
settings, there is no output from either the AUX A or the
AUXB jacks. The output is determined by the block settings
of the mixer’s master section and the settings of each channel.

9. MASTER OUT Jacks (L,R)

RCA-phono-type analog audio output jacks. With the factory
settings, all signals are output from the MASTER OUT jacks.
The output is determined by the block settings of the mixer’s
master section and the settings of each channel.

10. 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, etc. with a foot switch. With the factory settings, a
foot switch is set to start and stop the recorder.

11. DIGITAL Connectors (IN, OUT)

The VS-1680 accepts both coaxial and optical digital I/O
connectors (conforming to S/P DIF).

IN: This accepts a stereo digital audio signal. You can

select either the coaxial input connection or the
optical connection.

OUT: This outputs a stereo digital audio signal. You can

use both the coaxial connector and the optical
connector simultaneously, and each can carry a
different signal.

make sure that the phantom power switch is set to “Off”
unless you are using a condenser mic that requires phantom
power.

* Switching the phantom power on or off while the VS-1680 is

turned on produces a loud noise that can damage amps and
speakers. Turn the phantom power on or off only when the VS­1680 is turned off.

* When nothing is plugged into the INPUT 1–2 jacks, make

sure that the phantom power switch is set to “Off.” Also, we
recommend that the INPUT knob be turned fully to “LINE” to
capture as high a sound quality as possible.

13. GUITAR (Hi-Z) Jack (Guitar)

This 1/4” phone-type high-impedance jack is designed to
work best with a guitar, for less interference and a louder,
cleaner signal. It can be used instead of—but not at the same
time as—the regular INPUT 8 jack. If cables are connected to
both the GUITAR input and the regular INPUT 8 jack, the
GUITAR jack will take priority. Use the INPUT 8 knob to
adjust the input sensitivity of this input.

14. 1/4” INPUT Jacks (3-8)

Inputs 3 through 8 may be used as 1/4” phone-type TRS (Tip
Ring Sleeve) balanced connections, or as 1/4” phone-type
unbalanced connections, depending on the jack and cable
used. Use INPUT knobs 3-8 to adjust the input sensitivity of
these inputs.

15. XLR Balanced Inputs

Inputs 1 and 2 are XLR balanced connections. Use INPUT
knobs 1 and 2 to adjust the input sensitivity of these inputs.

S/P DIF (Appendices, p. 64)

* Before recording a digital audio signal, certain system settings

must be made. To input a digital signal, refer to "Recording a
Digital Source," p. 66

* The digital connectors cannot input or output analog audio

signals.

12. PHANTOM Switch

This turns phantom power (+48 V) on and off. With the
factory settings, this is set to “Off.”

Phantom Power (Appendices, p. 64)

* Supplying phantom power to dynamic microphones or audio

playback devices may result in damage to your equipment.
Thoroughly read the owner’s manual of your microphone, and

24

Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-1680 Terminology)

This chapter explains the basic concepts, internal structure,
and basic procedures that you will need to know in order to
operate the VS-1680. Please read this chapter thoroughly to
gain a better understanding of the VS-1680.

Saving and Managing Data

Managing Disk Contents (Partitioning)

The VS-1680 saves all of the data, such as performance data,
mixing data, system data, etc., on a hard disk drive. Thus, it
cannot operate without either having an internal hard disk or
being connected to an external drive with a SCSI connector.
Furthermore, an external drive used by the VS-1680 cannot
be used by another device.

The VS-1680 is able to manage 500 MB, 1000 MB or 2000 MB
of disk space at once. If you use a disk drive with a capacity
that is greater than this, you will need to divide it into two or
more areas.

Each of these areas is referred as a “partition.” Up to eight
partitions can be created in a single disk drive, space
permitting. We recommend you to set up partitions as 2000
MB to allow sufficient space for creating songs.

Ex. 1: When the disk drive is 810 MB, and the partition size is
1000 MB.

fig.01-01

Disk Drive

(810MB)

Partition

(810MB)

Ex. 2: When the disk drive is 1.4 GB, and the partition size is
1000 MB.

fig.01-02

Disk Drive

(1.4GB)

Partition 1

(1000MB)

Ex. 3: When the disk drive is 1.4 GB, and the partition size is
2000 MB.

fig.01-03

Disk Drive

(1.4GB)

Partition

(1.4GB)

Ex. 4: When the disk drive is 8.2 GB, and the partition size is
1000 MB.

Partition 2

(400MB)

fig.01-04

Disk Drive

(8.2GB)

Partition 1
(1000MB)

Partition 3
(1000MB)

Partition 5

(1000MB)

Partition 7
(1000MB)

unusable

(200MB)

Partition 2
(1000MB)

Partition 4
(1000MB)

Partition 6
(1000MB)

Partition 8

(1000MB)

Ex. 5: When the disk drive is 8. 2 GB, and the partition size is
2000 MB.

fig.01-05

Disk Drive

(8.2GB)

Partition 1

(2000MB)

Partition 3

(2000MB)

Partition 5

(200MB)

Partition 2
(2000MB)

Partition 4
(2000MB)

Each partition on the VS-1680’s disk drive is treated as an
independent drive, and automatically given a partition
number (0–7). When a single hard disk has multiple
partitions, you can specify which partition drive will be used
("Drive Select," p. 222). This selected disk drive partition used
is referred to as the “current drive.”

* If you wish to use hard disks or song data with both the VS-

1680 and the VS-880, there will be limitations as to what you
can do due to factors such as differing partition sizes and
numbers of tracks. For more detailed information, please see
"Drive Compatibility," p. 239.

* The VS-1680 can internally accomodate Roland HDP88

serie’s hard disks (hard disk drive units). For simultaneous
recording or playback of the greatest 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-1680, we
recommend using the HDP88-2100.

The Location Where a Performance is Recorded (Song)

The location where performance data is recorded is referred
to as a “song.”

Chapter 1

25

Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-1680 Terminology)

Normally, you should set a partition’s size to 2000 MB. When
dealing with large numbers of songs at the same time, or
when you want to use the data on the VS-880 as well, setting
the partition size to 1000 MB is recommended. The song
currently being recorded, played back, or edited is referred
to as the “current song.” The following types of data are
included in a song.

• All data recorded on V-Tracks

• MIDI clocks of the sync track

• Points specified within songs—locator, marker, punch­in/out points, loop-in/out points

• Scenes (mixer settings)

• Vari Pitch settings (p. 185)

• System settings—system, MIDI, disk, sync, Scene

• Effect settings

• Automix data

Sources, Tracks, and Channels

On the VS-1680, the recorder section and mixer section use
the term “sources,” “tracks” and “channels.” These terms
may appear similar to each other, and can be confusing
unless their differences are cleary understood.

Source: A signal which is input to the mixer section or

recorded in the recorder section. On the VS-1680,
this term refers in particular to the signals of the
analog INPUT jacks (1-8) 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 to
which a signal is being recorded 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.

Phrases: A “phrase” is a set of pointers that tells the

VS-1680 what portion of a take is to be played by a
track. The length of a phrase may just be the entire
length of a take, or may consist of only part of a
take. Also, you can use any number of phrases
from the same take, and have a phrase played
back repeatedly as a sort of “break beat.” This is
displayed as one box in the playlist.

fig.01-06

fig.01-07

fig.01-08

Takes and Phrases

On the VS-1680, data is managed in groups called “takes,”
“phrases.” Please take a moment to make sure you
understand the differences between these terms.

Takes: The data recorded to the disk is simply called a

“take”—a take is actually your audio data
recorded on the hard disk, along with time stamp
(time and date imprint) information. Each
recording is a take. Note that when you record
material onto a track that already contains a take,
the VS-1680 does not discard the earlier take.

26

About Events

The smallest unit of memory used by the VS-1680 to store
recorded information on disk is called an “event.” A newly
created song is provided approximately 18,000 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 change
depending on what you are doing. For example, Automix (p.

123) uses up six 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 can be
recorded to the song.

Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-1680 Terminology)

The remaining number of Events can be saved with the following procedures. Please use the most appropriate procedure for your
situation.

Execute Song Store (p. 48)

Use Execute Song Store if the UNDO indicator is lit. Events served for Redo will be released. But please note that you cannot
cancel, or redo, the last Undo you once execute this operation.

Execute Song Optimize (p. 214)

Execute Song Optimize if you have done a lot of punch-in recording. Events used for now-unnecessary audio data will be
released, and all currently stored levels of Undo are deleted.

Erase AutoMix data (p. 136)

If you have recorded AutoMix data, erase unnecessary data. Events served for unnecessary AutoMix data will be released.

Chapter 1

About Button Names

There are two groups of buttons referred to as SELECT/CH EDIT (Select/Channel Edit) buttons.

fig.01-08a

Mixer Section

The digital mixer specifies input or output status of the recorder section.
The VS-1680’s mixers include the Input Mixer—which, in the signal path, is situated before the recording section—the Track

Mixer, placed after the recording section, and the Master Block, which is used for determining which jacks and connectors output
the signals from each of the other mixers.

* For more detailed information about the mixer section, please refer to the “Mixer Section Block Diagram” ( Appendices , p. 60).

Signal Flow (Busses)

On the VS-1680, signals flow through busses. Busses are shared pathways through which multiple signals can be sent to various
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, etc.). The water that is used at each of these locations is then collected and carried away.

27

Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-1680 Terminology)

fig.01-09

If we think of the VS-1680 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-1680 is that by specifying from where—and to where—the common lines run, you can determine
which signals will be recorded on which track or sent to which effects, and to where they will be output.

RECORDING Bus:

Signals assigned to the RECORDING bus are routed to the recorder section to be recorded. The RECORDING bus has eight
channels to which you can assign any output of the Input Mixer, Track Mixer, and effects (effect 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 (effect return). Signals assigned to the MIX bus cannot routed to the
RECORDING bus.

EFFECT Bus:

Signals assigned to the EFFECT bus are sent to the VS8F-2 in order to add effects to them. The EFFECT bus has four channels—
EFX1 L/R, EFX2 L/R—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 jacks to provide addition mixes for monitoring. This bus features six
channels (AUX1 L/R, AUX2 L/R, AUX3 L/R), 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 additional output separate from that of the MASTER Out jacks (an
individual out).

EFFECT bus and AUX bus

If the VS-1680 contains two VS8F-2s, AUX bus (AUX1 L/R, AUX2 L/R) serves as EFFECT bus (EFX3 L/R, EFX4 L/R).

28

Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-1680 Terminology)

Input Mixer

The Input Mixer is placed before the recorder section, and corresponds to the input jacks: INPUT 1–8, DIGITAL IN L/R.

fig.01-10

Chapter 1

The output of each input channel is assigned to the track on which it is to be recorded. Channels not assigned to tracks are output
directly from the MASTER jacks. Also, signals assigned to tracks when the tracks are not in Record Standby (STATUS indicator
blinking red) are also output from the MASTER jacks. At this time, the following signals are assigned to the channel faders.

Channels 1–8: INPUT jacks 1–8
DIGITAL: DIGITAL IN connector L/R
ST IN: Sources assigned to STEREO IN (p. 185)
EFFECT 1: EFX1 return level or EFX3 return level
EFFECT 2: EFX2 return level or EFX4 return level

29

Chapter 1 Before You Start (VS-1680 Terminology)

Track Mixer

The Track Mixer is placed after the recorder section, and corresponds to Tracks (1–15/16).

fig.01-11

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-recording. The channel faders 1–15/16 correspond respectively to Tracks 1–15/16

Switching the Fader Functions

On the VS-1680, it is possible to adjust Input Mixer or Track Mixer settings by switching the function of the channel faders on the
top panel. Pressing [FADER] on the top panel toggles the function of the channel faders between controlling the Input Mixer and
the Track Mixer. The button indicator indicates which mixer is currently selected.

fig.01-12

30