This product, when installed as indicated in the instructions contained in this manual, meets FCC requirements. Modifications not expressly approved
by Yamaha may void your authority, granted by the FCC, to use the product.
2. IMPORTANT: When connecting this product to accessories and/or another product use only high quality shielded cables. Cable/s supplied with this
product MUST be used. Follow all installation instructions. Failure to follow instructions could void your FCC authorization to use this product in the
USA.
3. NOTE: This product has been tested and found to comply with the requirements listed in FCC Regulations, Part 15 for Class ”B” digital devices.
Compliance with these requirements provides a reasonable level of assurance that your use of this product in a residential environment will not
result in harmful interference with other electronic devices. This equipment generates/uses radio frequencies and, if not installed and used according
to the instructions found in the users manual, may cause interference harmful to the operation of other electronic devices. Compliance with FCC
regulations does not guarantee that interference will not occur in all installations. If this product is found to be the source of interference, which can
be determined by turning the unit ”OFF” and ”ON”, please try to eliminate the problem by using one of the following measures:
Relocate either this product or the device that is being affected by the interference.
Utilize power outlets that are on different branch (circuit breaker or fuse) circuits or install AC line filter/s.
In the case of radio or TV interference, relocate/reorient the antenna. If the antenna lead-in is 300 ohm ribbon lead, change the lead-in to co-axial type
cable.
If these corrective measures do not produce satisfactory results, please contact the local retailer authorized to distribute this type of product. If you
can not locate the appropriate retailer, please contact Yamaha Corporation of America, Electronic Service Division, 6600 Orangethorpe Ave, Buena
Park, CA 90620
The above statements apply ONLY to those products distributed by Yamaha Corporation of America or its subsidiaries.
* This applies only to products distributed by YAMAHA CORPORATION OF AMERICA.
Dette apparat overholder det gaeldende EF-direktiv
vedrørende radiostøj.
IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM
Cet appareil est conforme aux prescriptions de la
directive communautaire 87/308/CEE.
Diese Geräte entsprechen der EG-Richtlinie 82/
499/EWG und/oder 87/308/EWG.
This product complies with the radio frequency
interference requirements of the Council Directive 82/499/EEC and/or 87/308/EEC.
Questo apparecchio è conforme al D.M.13 aprile
1989 (Direttiva CEE/87/308) sulla soppressione
dei radiodisturbi.
Este producto está de acuerdo con los requisitos
sobre interferencias de radio frequencia fijados
por el Consejo Directivo 87/308/CEE.
YAMAHA CORPORATION
Litiumbatteri!
Bör endast bytas av servicepersonal.
Explosionsfara vid felaktig hantering.
VAROITUS!
Lithiumparisto, Räjähdysvaara.
Pariston saa vaihtaa ainoastaan alan
ammattimies.
Connecting the Plug and Cord
IMPORTANT: The wires in this mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:
GREEN-AND-YELLOW: EARTH
BLUE: NEUTRAL
BROWN: LIVE
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured
markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured GREEN and YELLOW must be connected to the terminal in the plug
which is marked by the letter E or by the safety earth symbol or coloured GREEN and YELLOW.
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter
N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the
letter L or coloured RED.
* This applies only to products distributed by YAMAHA - KEMBLE MUSIC (U.K.) LTD.
ADVARSEL!
Lithiumbatteri!
Eksplosionsfare. Udskiftning må kun foretages
af en sagkyndig, – og som beskrevet i
servicemanualen.
SPECIAL MESSAGE SECTION
AC INLET
PRODUCT SAFETY MARKINGS: Yamaha electronic products may have either labels similar to the graphics shown
below or molded/stamped facsimiles of these graphics on the
enclosure. The explanation of these graphics appears on this
page. Please observe all cautions indicated on this page and
those indicated in the safety instruction section.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
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
● Explanation of Graphical Symbols
The exclamation point within the equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to the
presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol
within the 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 electrical shock.
methods used to produce them, meet these goals. In keeping
with both the letter and the spirit of the law, we want you to
be aware of the following:
Battery Notice: This product MAY contain a small nonrechargeable battery which (if applicable) is soldered in place.
The average life span of this type of battery is approximately
five years. When replacement becomes neccessary, contact a
qualified service representative to perform the replacement.
Warning: Do not attempt to recharge, disassemble, or incinerate this type of battery. Keep all batteries away from
children. Dispose of used batteries promptly and as regulated
by applicable laws. Note: In some areas, the servicer is
required by law to return the defective parts. However, you
do have the option of having the servicer dispose of these
parts for you.
Disposal Notice: Should this product become damaged beyond repair, or for some reason its useful life is considered
to be at an end, please observe all local, state, and federal
regulations that relate to the disposal of products that contain
lead, batteries, plastics, etc.
NOTICE: Service charges incurred due to lack of knowledge
relating to how a function or effect works (when the unit is
operating as designed) are not covered by the manufacturer’s
warranty, and are therefore the owners responsibility. Please
study this manual carefully and consult your dealer before
requesting service.
NAME PLATE LOCATION: The graphic below indicates
the location of the name plate. The model number, serial
number, power requirements, etc., are located on this plate.
You should record the model number, serial nunber, and the
date of purchase in the spaces provided below and retain this
manual as a permanent record of your purchase.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: All Yamaha electronic products are
tested and approvend by an independent safety testing laboratory in order that you may be sure that when it is properly
installed and used in its normal and customary manner, all
foreseeable risks have been eliminated. DO NOT modify this
unit or commission others to do so unless specifically authorized by Yamaha. Product performance and/or safety standards
may be diminished. Claims filed under the expressed warranty
may be denied if the unit is/has been modified. Implied
warranties may also be affected.
SPECFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE: The information contained in this manual is believed to be correct at the
time of printing. However, Yamaha reserves the right to
change or modify any of the specifications without notice or
obligation to update existing units.
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: Yamaha strives to produce
products that are both user safe and environmentally friendly.
We sincerely believe that our products and the production
92-469 q
YAMAHA
MODEL VL1
AC INLET
POWER
ON / OFF
YAMAHA
MODEL VL7
AC INLET
POWER
ON / OFF
Model
Serial No.
Purchase Date
VL1
VL1-m
VL7
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Please refer to the IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS listed below rather
than those in the original Feature Reference manual. The safety instructions
given here are complete and correct.
INFORMATION RELATING TO PERSONAL INJURY, ELECTRICAL SHOCK,
AND FIRE HAZARD POSSIBILITIES HAS BEEN INCLUDED IN THIS LIST.
WARNING- When using any electrical or electronic product,
basic precautions should always be followed. These precautions
include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Read all Safety Instructions, Installation Instructions, Special
Message Section items, and any Assembly Instructions found
in this manual BEFORE making any connections, including
connection to the main supply.
2. Do not attempt to service this product beyond that
described in the user-maintenance instructions. All other
servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
3. Main Power Supply Verification: Yamaha products are
manufactured specifically for the supply voltage in the area where
they are to be sold. If you should move, or if any doubt exists
about the supply voltage in your area, please contact your dealer
for supply voltage verification and (if applicable) instructions.The
required supply voltage is printed on the name plate. For name
plate location, please refer to the graphic found in the Special
Message Section of this manual.
4. DANGER-Grounding Instructions: This product must be
grounded and therefore has been equipped with a three pin
attachment plug. If this product should malfunction, the ground
pin provides a path of low resistance for electrical current,
reducing the risk of electrical shock. If your wall socket will not
accommodate this type plug, contact an electrician to have the
outlet replaced in accordance with local electrical codes. Do
NOT modify the plug or change the plug to a different type!
5. WARNING: Do not place this product or any other objects
on the power cord or place it in a position where anyone could
walk on, trip over, or roll anything over power or connecting
cords of any kind. The use of an extension cord is not
recommended! If you must use an extension cord, the minimum
wire size for a 25' cord (or less) is 18 AWG. NOTE: The smaller
the AWG number, the larger the current handling capacity. For
longer extension cords, consult a local electrician.
6. Ventilation: Electronic products, unless specifically designed
for enclosed installations, should be placed in locations that do
not interfere with proper ventilation. If instructions for enclosed
installation are not provided, it must be assumed that
unobstructed ventilation is required.
7. Temperature considerations: Electronic products should be
installed in locations that do not seriously contribute to their
operating temperature. Placement of this product close to heat
sources such as; radiators, heat registers etc., should be
avoided.
8. This product was NOT designed for use in wet/damp
locations and should not be used near water or exposed to
rain. Examples of wet /damp locations are; near a swimming
pool, spa, tub, sink, or wet basement.
9. This product should be used only with the components
supplied or; a cart ,rack, or stand that is recommended by the
manufacturer . If a cart, rack, or stand is used, please observe
all safety markings and instructions that accompany the
accessory product.
10. The power supply cord (plug) should be disconnected
from the outlet when electronic products are to be left unused
for extended periods of time. Cords should also be disconnected
when there is a high probability of lightning and/or electrical
storm activity.
11. Care should be taken that objects do not fall on and
liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through any openings
that may exist.
12. Electrical/electronic products should be serviced by a
qualified service person when:
a. The power supply cord has been damaged; or
b. Objects have fallen, been inserted, or liquids have been
spilled into the enclosure through openings; or
c. The product has been exposed to rain; or
d. The product does not operate, exhibits a marked change
in performance; or
e. The product has been dropped, or the enclosure of the
product has been damaged.
13. This product, either alone or in combination with an
amplifier and headphones or speaker/s, 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.
IMPORTANT: The louder the sound, the shorter the time period
before damage occurs.
14. Some Yamaha products may have benches and / or
accessory mounting fixtures that are either supplied as a part of
the product or as optional accessories. Some of these items
are designed to be dealer assembled or installed. Please make
sure that benches are stable and any optional fixtures (where
applicable) are well secured BEFORE using. Benches supplied
by Yamaha are designed for seating only. No other uses are
recommended.
92-469-3
PLEASE KEEP THIS MANUAL
Welcome to Version 2
Whether you have purchased a VL1 Version 2, VL1-m Version 2, or VL7 Version 2 or upgraded from an original version, you
are now in possession of what is currently the most advanced
computer-based “physical modelling” musical synthesis system in
the world.
VL Version 2 is a software upgrade which significantly
enhances the sound and playability of the original VL system in the
same sense that operating system upgrades for personal computers
can provide major improvements in operating ease and functionality. To employ a more musical example, upgrading from the original VL version to Version 2 takes you from the sound and response
of a baby grand piano to that of a full concert grand.
VL future
Copland
CF
III
CF
S
III
VL
VL Version 2
System 6
MS-DOS
System 7
Windows 95
C3
'93'95
Specifically, Version 2 applies to two main areas: 1) the
physical modelling algorithm has been improved for greater simulation precision and resolution; and 2) improved effects. Please note
that the changes have not been made merely in the interest of
greater programming “elegance” or to fix bugs in the original system. Version 2 is a very meaningful upgrade, offering advanced
sound and playability that can make a major difference in the quality of the music you create.
* The company names and product names in this manual are trademarks or registered trademarks
This manual supplements the original VL manuals with information about
the improvements and changes in Version 2. The information provided in the
original VL manuals is essential for a full understanding of Version 2, and those
manuals — particularly the Getting Started manual — should be read before
attempting any serious work with Version 2.
This manual is made up of 5 chapters, as follows:
1. Initial Setup [˘ Page 5]
Setting up the instrument without external controllers and
loading the Version 2 voices.
2. Test Driving Version 2 [˘ Page 10]
Simple procedures to help you become familiar with some of
the capabilities and features of Version 2.
3. Load-converting Original VL Voices [˘ Page 19]
Loading and automatically converting original VL voices for
use with Version 2.
4. New Features & Parameters [˘ Page 22]
This section lists the new features and parameters provided by
Version 2.
5. Experiments [˘ Page 58]
Some experiments to help you become familiar with the way
controllers and other features function in the VL instruments.
Model Name Abbreviations
Although the official names of the models described in this manual are
VL1 Version 2, VL7 Version 2, and VL1-m Version 2, “Version 2” will be
abbreviated to “Ver.2” in the text for easier, more efficient reading. The term
“Version 2” or simply “the instrument” will be used when referring to all three
models.
4
1: Initial Setup
VL Version 2
The best way to appreciate the outstanding sound and playability of Version 2 is to set up and try out some of the voices. Although controllers such as a
foot controller, breath controller, and footswitch are essential for maximum
musical expression with Version 2, you can initially set up without them and
still appreciate the extraordinary sound and playability it offers. This section will
guide you through the basic setup and voice loading procedures.
NOTES■ If you’ve upgraded from an original VL model and are already
familiar with setup and voice selection procedures, you can skip ahead to
“Test Driving Version 2”, on page 10.
Power Supply
Before making any other connections the “female” end of the AC power cord
supplied with the instrument should be firmly plugged into the rear-panel AC cord socket.
Ideally the power cord should then be plugged into a convenient AC outlet after you’ve
made all other necessary connections and placed the instrument in the position in which it
will be used. Always make sure that the POWER switch is in the OFF (extended) position before plugging the power cord in an AC outlet.
1: Initial Setup
CAUTION!
the rear panel). Connecting the instrument to the wrong AC supply can cause
serious damage to the internal circuitry and may even pose a shock hazard!
Audio Connections
●
Headphones
Headphones are ideal for a fast, easy checkout. Any standard pair of stereo headphones with a 1/4" stereo phone plug and an impedance of between about 8 and 150
ohms can be used.
●
Stereo Sound System
The original VL and Version 2 voices are designed to sound their best in stereo. A
stereo sound system is recommended to deliver the full impact of the voices and expressive features. The OUTPUT L and R jacks can be connected directly to musical instrument amplifiers designed for keyboard use, or to the line inputs of a mixing console.
NOTES■ If you need to drive a mono amp or other device, the output can be
switched to mono (the same signal appears at the L and R outputs) by using the
Output parameter described in the Feature Reference manual:
VL1. . . . . . . page 154
VL1-m . . . . page 153
VL7. . . . . . . page 152
■ Make sure your VL model is rated for the AC voltage
supplied in the area in which it is to be used (as listed on
■ Make sure that both the instrument and your sound system are turned OFF
when making connections.
5
VL Version 2
Power-on Procedure
Always follow proper procedure when powering-up a sound system to minimize the
possibility of damage to the equipment (and your ears!).
1. Make sure your sound system’s main level/volume control(s) and the instrument’s
volume control are turned all the way down prior to turning power on.
2. Turn on the instrument. If you are using a VL1-m Ver.2, turn on your MIDI key-
board or other controller after turning on the VL1-m Ver.2.
3. Turn on the sound system.
4. Raise the sound system volume to a reasonable level.
5. Gradually raise the instrument’s VOLUME control while playing the keyboard to
set the desired listening level.
NOTES■VL1 Ver.2 and VL7 Ver.2: these models automatically transmit MIDI
control change data corresponding to their control status when their power
switches are turned ON. This can interfere with operation of other MIDI equipment connected to the MIDI OUT connector. If the instrument is connected to
other MIDI equipment, its power switch should be turned ON or OFF
last.
■VL1-m Ver.2: Most keyboards and other MIDI controllers automatically
transmit MIDI control change data data corresponding to their control status
when the power switch is turned ON or OFF. The VL1-m Ver.2 is programmed to
receive this data and respond accordingly, so it is preferable to turn the VL1-m
ON
before turning the controlling device ON.
VL1-m Ver.2 MIDI Connections
The VL1-m Ver.2 can be used with just about any type of MIDI controller: keyboard, wind controller, sequencer, computer-based MIDI software, etc. Use a MIDI cable
to connect the MIDI OUT terminal of the controller to the MIDI IN terminal of the VL1m. To ensure reliable error-free transfer of MIDI data always use high-quality MIDI
cables obtained from your Yamaha dealer or music equipment store. Also avoid MIDI
cables that are longer than about 15 meters, since cables longer than this can pick up
noise which can cause data errors.
The VL1-m Ver.2 MIDI transmit channel, receive channel, local on/off, and device
number parameters are available in the utility mode “MIDI Setting” page described on
page 154 of the VL1-m Feature Reference manual. Make sure these parameters are set to
match the corresponding settings of the MIDI controller used with the VL1-m Ver.2.
● The VL1-m Ver.2 receives the following MIDI data:
Note
Control Change
Aftertouch
Pitch Bend
Program Change
Bulk
6
The played note(s) and velocity value.
Modulation wheel, breath controller, foot controller, main volume, and
other controller data.
Keyboard aftertouch pressure.
Pitch bend wheel position.
Voice numbers from 1 to 128.
Voice and system data transmitted in the form of “bulk dumps.”
VL Version 2
NOTES■ For detailed MIDI specifications refer to the “MIDI Data Format”
section in the “Voice Lists & MIDI Data for Version 2” document.
■ When using the VL1-m Ver.2 with other MIDI equipment, it is a good idea to
refer to the MIDI specifications (implementation chart, MIDI data format) of the
equipment used to ensure compatibility.
Load the Pre-programmed Voice Data
Although the factory pre-programmed voices are stored in the instrument’s internal
memory when it is initially shipped, there is always a possibility that all or part of the
memory has been erased or modified by the time the instrument gets to you. It’s a good
idea to re-load all the pre-programmed data from the supplied “FACTORY SET” voice
disk, as follows.
NOTES■ Loading the pre-programmed voices overwrites any other data that is
in the internal memory, so if you have any important voices in memory make
sure they are safely saved to disk before loading the data, as described in the
Feature Reference manual:
VL1. . . . . . . page 166
VL1-m . . . . page 166
VL7. . . . . . . page 166
1: Initial Setup
1. Insert the Voice Disk
Insert the Version 2 voice disk into the disk drive. The sliding disk shutter should
go in first, and the label side of the disk should face upward.
2. Select the Utility Mode System Page
Press the U button to select the utility mode. Then, if it is not already selected when the utility mode display appears, press the ¡ button to select the “Sys-tem” function page.
NOTES■ If the Memory Protect function has been turned on (the default
setting is “off”), it must be turned off before loading the data.
Use the cursor buttons to move the cursor to “Miscellaneous”, then press
[
to call the “Miscellaneous” function page. Use the cursor buttons to
=
select the “Memory Protect” parameter, then press
protect “off”.
to turn memory
7
VL Version 2
3. Select the Disk Function Directory
Press the £ function button (“Disk”) to select the utility mode disk function
directory.
4. Select “Load From Disk”
Use the cursor buttons to move the cursor to “Load From Disk” and then press
[.
5. Select “All” and Select the “VL1_VER2.ALL” or “VL7_VER2.ALL” File
Make sure the cursor is positioned at “All” and press [.
When the list of files appears use the cursor > and < buttons to select the
“VL1_VER2.ALL” file if you have a VL1 Ver.2 or VL1-m Ver.2, or the
“VL7_VER2.ALL” file if you have a VL7 Ver.2, then press [ again.
6. Load the File
Loading will begin when you press the - button in response to the “Are You
Sure?” prompt. A bar graph on the display will indicate the progress of the load opera-tion, and when all the data has been loaded “Completed!” will appear.
8
VL Version 2
7. Return to the Play Mode, Eject the Disk, & Select a Voice
When the “Completed!” display appears, press the P button to return to the
play mode, then press the eject button below the disk drive slot to eject the disk. Store
the disk in a safe place. You must now select a voice in order for the loaded data to be
properly activated — see the following section.
About the Version 2 Data Disk
The Version 2 floppy disk contains the following files:
NOTES ■ These voice files cannot be used with the original VL models.
● VL1_VER2.ALL
This file contains the voices initially loaded into the VL1 Version 2
when it is first shipped from the factory. The UTILITY/SYSTEM/BREATH
MODE parameter is set to “Touch EG”, so until this is changed to “BC/
WX” the breath controller or a WX wind controller cannot be used.
Many of these voices can also be used on the VL7 Version 2.
1: Initial Setup
● VL1V2_WX.ALL
The 32 voices included in this file have been programmed specifically
for optimum playability on the VL1 Ver.2 or VL1-m Ver.2 using a Yamaha
WX-series wind controller (WX7/WX11).
This selection also includes many voices which can be effectively
played via a keyboard with breath control. Many voices are suitable for the
rock and pop genres, so don’t overlook them for keyboard control.
● VL7_VER2.ALL
This file contains the voices initially loaded into the VL7 Version 2
when it is first shipped from the factory. The UTILITY/SYSTEM/BREATH
MODE parameter is set to “Touch EG”, so until this is changed to “BC/
WX” the breath controller or a WX wind controller cannot be used.
● VL7V2_WX.ALL
The 32 voices included in this file have been programmed specifically
for optimum playability on the VL7 Ver.2 using a Yamaha WX-series wind
controller (WX7/WX11).
This selection also includes many voices which can be effectively
played via a keyboard with breath control. Many voices are suitable for the
rock and pop genres, so don’t overlook them for keyboard control.
● ADDITION.ALL
This file includes some excellent voices that are not in the
VL1_VER2.ALL or VL7_VER2.ALL files. Most are single-element voices,
so the VL1 voices can be used effectively on the VL7.
9
2: Test Driving Version 2
VL Version 2
Set the Breath Mode to “Touch EG”
Once the Version 2 voices are loaded you’re almost ready to try them out —
“almost” because there’s one more step necessary to play the voices without a breath
controller:
NOTES■ The procedure below sets the breath mode to “Touch EG” so
“breath” control can be applied via keyboard touch response. This setting is
automatically selected when the VL1-VER2.ALL or VL7_VER2.ALL file is loaded,
so you may not need to bother with these steps if you’ve just loaded one of
these files. It is a good idea to check, anyway.
1. Select the Utility Mode System Page
Press the U button to select the utility mode. Then, if it is not already selected when the utility mode display appears, press the ¡ button to select the “Sys-tem” function page.
2. Set the Breath Mode to “Touch EG”
Use the cursor keys to move the cursor to “Breath Mode”, and press [ to
call the “Breath Mode” function page. Make sure the cursor is located at the “Mode”
parameter and use the = and - buttons to select “Touch EG”.
It might be a good idea to increase the value of the “VelGain” parameter a bit for
easier response. The default values can be instantly recalled by pressing the • (Init)
function button.
3. Return to the Play Mode
Press the P button to return to the PLAY mode.
10
VL Version 2
Try Some Version 2 Voices
Voice selection is described in detail in the Getting Started manual. In case you’re
not already familiar with the procedures, here’s a summary to get you started.
1. Select the Play Mode
Press the P button so that its indicator lights and the word “PLAY”
appears in the upper left corner of the LCD panel.
2. Select a Voice
On the VL1 Ver.2 or VL7 Ver.2 any voice can be selected by specifying its
bank using the bank keys (a, b, c, etc.), and its number using the voice
number keys (1 through ^).
To select voice “D7”, for example, first press the bank d key and then the
voice number 7 key. The bank d key indicator will flash until the voice number
7 key is pressed and the D7 voice is actually engaged.
To select a different voice within the same bank it is only necessary to press
the appropriate voice number key. To select a different bank, however, you’ll
always have to press both a bank key and a voice number key (or the [ key).
This prevents unwanted voices from being selected until you’ve actually specified
both the bank and number of the voice you want to use.
The = and - buttons can also be used to select voices: press the =
or - button briefly to decrement or increment the voice number by one, or hold
either button for continuous decrementing or incrementing in the corresponding
direction. The bank will switch automatically if you cross a bank voice-number
boundary.
The data dial provides a convenient way to rapidly cover a large range of
voices: rotate the data dial clockwise for higher voice numbers or counter-clockwise
for lower voice numbers while watching the display. The banks are automatically
switched when necessary as the voice numbers are changed.
2: Test Driving Version 2
3. Set the Modulation Wheels To Their Home Positions
Roll MODULATION WHEEL 1 all the way towards you, and set MODULATION WHEEL 2 to its center position.
●
A02 Jazz Sax
Although this voice is exactly the same as the Alto Sax voice provided with the
original VL models — i.e. it has not been programmed to take advantage of the advanced
simulation capabilities of Version 2 — the improved playability of Version 2 makes it
play like a totally new voice. Use keyboard velocity, aftertouch, the pitch bend wheel,
and modulation wheel 1 to play a sax phrase, and you’ll see what we mean. An important
contributing factor to this improved playability is the ability to assign Touch EG to
pressure control.
●
D02 BaritonSax
This voice provides a good example of the extraordinary simulation precision
provided by Version 2. As with the previous voice, play a sax phrase using keyboard
velocity, aftertouch, the pitch bend wheel, and modulation wheel 1. You should be able to
replicate the sound of a top-level sax player with refined embouchure and technique.
Later, you might want to convert-load the original A02 Tenor Sax voice (convert-loading
11
VL Version 2
is described in the next section of this manual), and compare it with the D02 BaritonSax
voice. The difference should be obvious.
●
A04 Jazz Trumpt
Use this voice to play a trumpet phrase. Like the previous voice, you should fairly
easily be able to produce the sound of a trumpet played by a highly accomplished artist.
Version 2 allows a much more accurate simulation of the trumpet tubing, resulting in a
highly responsive, realistic trumpet voice. This voice is ideal for jazzy phrases.
Also try the following: press the £ (Cnt3) button to call the corresponding con-
troller assignment display, and note that the dynamic filter (“D.Filter”) is off. While most
PCM synthesizers — and even the original VL — employ a dynamic filter to simulate
timbral variations across the voice’s dynamic range, the Version 2 simulation is so
realistic that the dynamic filter is not needed. Note how the trumpet tone varies from soft
to hard in response to keyboard velocity.
●
B11 C Flute
Let’s use this voice to try a simple experiment which illustrates one of the new
features of the Version 2 physical modelling section:
1. Press the E button to select the edit mode. If the entry-level edit display
shown below does not appear when the E button is pressed, press the
] button a few times until it does.
2. Press the ™ (E1) button.
3. Press the ™ (Misc) button.
12
VL Version 2
4. Move the cursor to “Breath Noise” and press the [ button.
5. Move the cursor to the “Noise” parameter (currently set to “Dark
Woody”), and use the = and - buttons to select different noise types
while playing the voice (there are 23 different noise types to choose from).
6. Press the P button to return to the play mode when done.
2: Test Driving Version 2
The noise parameter you just edited changes the noise components at the flute
mouthpiece. The ability to choose from a range of noise types provides considerable
voice-shaping flexibility.
●
B05 FingrBass
Here’s a simple experiment which demonstrates the improved flexibility of the
Version 2 effects using the B05 FingrBass voice:
1. Press the E button to select the edit mode. If the entry-level edit display
shown below does not appear when the E button is pressed, press the
] button a few times until it does.
2. Press the ¡ (Com) button.
13
VL Version 2
3. Press the ™ (Efct) button.
4. Move the cursor to “Modulation Effect” and press the [ button.
5. Move the cursor to the “Modulation Effect Type” parameter (cur-
rently set to “Flanger”). Play the voice to hear the sound of the bass voice
with a subtle touch of flanger, then press the - button a few times to select
the Dist+Flanger effect type. Play the voice again to hear the difference.
6. Press the P button to return to the play mode when done.
Unlike the original VL models, Version 2 allows modulation effects to be applied in
series for an impressive variety of new sounds.
14
VL Version 2
Controller Connection & Calibration
If you followed the procedures in the previous section you are already at least partly
familiar with the extraordinary expressive capabilities of the VL1 Ver.2, VL7 Ver.2, or
VL1-m Ver.2 — without using external controllers. The next step is to connect a foot
controller and breath controller and experiment with the unprecedented expressive power
at your disposal when Version 2 is used with external controllers. The BC2 Breath
Controller is perhaps the most natural way to apply expressive control to the VL voices,
but a foot controller can be used instead if you’re more comfortable with foot control. Of
course, the breath and foot controllers can also be used to simultaneously control different parameters.
●
Breath Controller
The Breath Controller provides realistic expres-
sion with wind-instrument voices (volume and
timbre as well as tonguing attack variations) and
unprecedented control with string voices (bowed and
plucked). Plug the BC2 Breath Controller supplied
with the VL1 Ver.2 or VL7 Ver.2 (or an optional
BC1 breath controller) into the front-panel breath
controller jack.
If you will be using the VL1-m Ver.2 with a
wind controller a breath controller is not necessary.
If you will be using the VL1-m with a keyboard,
however, you should purchase an optional BC2 or BC1 Breath Controller and plug it into
the front-panel breath controller jack.
Before you actually begin using the breath controller, it should be calibrated as
described in the following section.
2: Test Driving Version 2
NOTES■ For more information on Breath Controller setup and operation, see
the instructions packed with the supplied BC2 Breath Controller.
●
Breath Controller Calibration
Proper operation of the breath controller is vital to achieving the best possible sound
and response. Although the controller is factory-calibrated to match most requirements,
we recommend that you carefully calibrate the breath controller for optimum performance
with your own playing style.
1. Make Sure the Breath Controller Is Connected
Make sure the breath controller is properly connected: turn the power OFF,
plug in the breath controller, then turn the power ON.
15
VL Version 2
2. Select the Utility Mode System Page
Press the U button to select the utility mode. Then, if it is not already
selected when the utility mode display appears, press the ¡ button to select the
“System” function page.
NOTES■ On the VL1 Ver.2 and VL7 Ver.2 you can move the cursor to “Assign-
able Ctrl” and press
various controllers. Press
page.
■ On the VL1-m press the
from the controllers. Press
[
to see the current control assignments for the
]
when you’re ready to go back to the previous
¶
(Moni) button to monitor the MIDI data received
]
to return.
3. Set the Breath Mode to “BC/WX”
Use the cursor keys to move the cursor to “Breath Mode”, and press
[ to call the “Breath Mode” function page. If the “Mode” parameter is not
set to “BC/WX”, make sure the cursor is located at the “Mode” parameter and use
the = and - buttons to select “BC/WX”. Press ] to return to the previous page.
4. Go To the Curve Page and Select “Brth”
Use the cursor keys to move the cursor to “Curve”, then press [ to call
the “Curve” function page. On the VL1 Ver.2 and VL7 Ver.2 press the •
function button (“Brth”) to call the breath controller curve page when the curve
display appears. On the VL1-m Ver.2 it is only necessary to select “BC Curve”.
16
5. Adjust the Breath Controller Offset
The following adjustment must be performed while not blowing into the
breath controller mouthpiece. Do not hold the breath controller in your mouth.
VL Version 2
Rotate the breath controller OFFSET trimmer slowly clockwise, using the
supplied screwdriver, until the vertical cursors above and below the curve graph
move slightly to the right and the number below the graph is greater that “0”. Then
slowly rotate the trimmer carefully counter-clockwise until the number below the
graph just reaches “0” (the cursors will be lined up with the left end of the graph),
then stop.
6. Adjust the Breath Controller Gain
Place the breath controller mouthpiece in your mouth and blow — notice that
the cursors move to right and the number below the graph increases according to
how hard you blow. Adjust the breath controller GAIN trimmer so that you can
comfortably vary your breath pressure between 0 and 127 on the graph. This completes the gain adjustment.
7. Readjust the Offset If Necessary
If adjusting the gain causes the offset setting to shift, readjust the offset as
described in step 5.
At this point you can use the “Curve Type” parameter to select the curve
type that best suits your playing style.
2: Test Driving Version 2
8. Return to the Play Mode
Press the P button to return to the PLAY mode.
●
Foot Controllers
Although the VL1 Ver.2 and VL7 Ver.2 have
jacks for two foot controllers, it is not necessary to use
both. To begin with plug the supplied FC7 Foot
Controller into the rear-panel FOOT CONTROLLER
2 jack.
The VL1-m Ver.2 will responsd to MIDI foot
controller control change data received from the
controlling device.
NOTES■ For more information on Foot Controller setup and operation, see the
instructions packed with the supplied FC7 Foot Controller.
17
VL Version 2
Experiment With the Controllers
Once your breath controller has been connected and calibrated, you’re ready to get a
feel for the type of expressive control it provides. Try selecting different voices and
playing them using the keyboard, breath controller, pitch wheel, and modulation wheel 1.
To try out the foot controller as an alternative to the breath controller for breath
control, unplug the breath controller and try playing different voices using the foot
controller (the foot controller must be plugged into the FOOT CONTROLLER 2 jack).
Up to this point we’ve described a few simple experiments that should help you to
become familiar with the VL Version 2 system. More detailed controller experiments are
described in section 5 — “Experiments With the Controllers”. We recommend that you
try those experiments for a more in-depth appreciation of the instrument’s unmatched
musical and expressive potential.
18
3: Load-converting the Original VL Voices
VL Version 2
Version 2 is compatible with all original VL voices, so if you are upgrading from an original VL model you will still be able to use the voices you are,
no doubt, by now familiar with.
To be used on a Version 2 system the original voices must be converted,
but this is done automatically when they are loaded: the “Now Converting and
Loading!” message will appear on the display. The converted voices can then be
saved to a separate disk for later re-loading and use. Don’t save the converted
3: Load-converting Original VL Voices
voices back to the original voice disk, since that would overwrite the original
voices which can still be used on an original VL instrument.
The new and modified parameters described in section 4 of this manual
are initially set automatically. Also, the following system parameter settings are
added to the original voices files:
To VL1 Version 2
●
VL1 Voice to VL1 Ver.2
When an “
changed. The following new system parameters are added:
Version 2 voices cannot be used on the original VL instruments. An “Illegal file!”
error message will appear on the display and the files cannot be loaded or converted.
VL Version 2
.ALL” file is loaded all original system data is left un-
3: Load-converting Original VL Voices
●
Hardware System Exclusive Data Transfer
System Exclusive data can be hardware-transferred between two original VL models, or between two Version 2 VL models, but not between an original and Version 2
model.
21
4. New Features & Parameters
VL Version 2
This section describes the actual improvements and new features provided
in Version 2. In many cases the changes involve modifications of procedures or
parameters found in the original VL models. In such cases the appropriate page
numbes in the corresponding Feature Reference manuals will be listed — please
refer to the original Feature Reference manuals for complete details. New features are described in full.
The block diagram below represents the overall Version 2 system. Shaded
blocks are either totally new or feature significant improvements.
Controllers & Envelope
Instrument Section
DriverPipe/StringMixer
= New or Improved
NOTES■ Please note that although most of the information provided in
this manual applies equally to the VL1 Ver.2, VL1-m Ver.2, and VL7 Ver.2,
any references to multiple elements — e.g. separate parameters for the E1
and E2 elements — do not apply to the VL7 Ver.2 since it employs a single
element.
Modifiers
Harmonic Enhancer
Dynamic Filter
Frequency Equalizer
Impulse Expander
Resonator
Effects
Modulation
Feedback Delay
Reverb
22
VL Version 2
Changes and additions to the functions listed below are described on the corre-