Contents

IMPORTANT NOTES
Contents
Main Features
Panel descriptions
- Front panel
- Rear panel
Getting ready
Reset to default factory settings (Factory Reset)
Listening to the demo songs
Quick Start
- Try out the sounds
- Applying various effects to the sound
- Using the Rhythm Guide
Advanced Use
- Overview of the RS-50
  - How the instrument is organized
  - Classification of RS-50 sound types
  - Effects
  - Number of voices
  - About memory
    - Temporary memory
    - Rewritable memory
    - Non-rewritable memory
- Basic operation of the RS-50
  - Switching the mode
    - Patch mode
    - Performance mode
  - Editing parameters
    - Basic procedure
    - Executing a command
    - Assigning a name
    - When one page contains two or more settings
  - Inputting numbers and numerals
  - Selecting a part
- Creating a patch (Patch mode)
  - How to make the patch settings
    - Changing the way that the tones are sounded (Key Mode)
    - Editing the patch parameters
    - Making settings that apply to the entire patch (Patch Common parameters)
    - Making settings for an individual tone (Patch Tone parameters)
  - Saving a patch
  - Convenient functions for patch editing (Patch Utility)
    - Copying patch parameters (PATCH PRM COPY)
    - Initializing the parameters of a patch (PATCH INITIALIZE)
    - Erasing a user patch you saved (PATCH REMOVE)
    - Transmitting patch/rhythm set settings from the MIDI OUT connector (XFER to MIDI)
    - Restoring the factory settings (FACTORY RESET)
- Creating a rhythm set (Patch mode)
  - How to make the rhythm set settings
    - Editing the rhythm set parameters
    - Making settings that apply to the entire rhythm set (Rhythm Common parameters)
    - Editing the settings of each rhythm tone (key) (Rhythm Tone parameters)
  - Saving a rhythm set (User Rhythm Set)
  - Convenient functions for rhythm set editing (Rhythm Set Utility)
    - Copying effect settings from a rhythm set (RHY PRM COPY)
    - Initializing the settings of a specific rhythm tone (RHY INITIALIZE)
    - Erasing a rhythm set you saved (RHY REMOVE)
- Playing more than one sound simultaneously (Performance mode)
  - Choosing a part and selecting the sound
    - Selecting performance numbers
  - Editing the settings of a performance
    - Making settings that apply to the entire performance
    - Editing the effect settings of a performance
    - Editing the part settings of a performance (Part Setup)
    - Editing the effect settings for each part of the performance (Performance Part Effect)
  - Saving a performance
  - Convenient functions for performance editing (Performance Utility)
    - Copying part or effect parameters (PERFORM PRM COPY)
    - Initializing the parameters of a performance (PERFORM INIT)
    - Transmitting performance settings from the MIDI OUT connector (XFER to MIDI)
    - Restoring the factory settings (FACTORY RESET)
- Using the phrase/arpeggio function
  - Creating your own arpeggio template (User Template)
- Using chord memory function
  - Creating an original chord set (User Chord Set)
- Adding effects
  - Turning the effect function on and off (MASTER EFFECT SWITCH)
  - The effect signal path
  - Making effects settings
  - Setting multi-effects parameters
  - Making chorus settings
  - Making reverb settings
- Settings common to all modes (System Function)
  - How to make the system function settings
  - Functions of the system parameters
    - Settings common to the entire system (GENERAL)
    - Settings related to controllers (CONTROLLER)
    - Settings related to MIDI (MIDI)
    - Making scale tune settings for a patch (PATCH SCALE)
- Performing with an external MIDI device
  - About MIDI
  - MIDI messages used by the RS-50
  - Using the RS-50 to play an external MIDI sound module
    - Connecting to external MIDI sound modules
    - Set the keyboard transmit channel
  - Playing the RS-50s sound generator from an external MIDI device
    - Connecting an external MIDI device
    - Setting the patch receive channel
    - Setting the program change receive switch
    - Selecting RS-50 sounds from an external MIDI device
    - Using an external MIDI controller to change the RS-50s tones
  - Recording to an external sequencer
    - Connecting to an external sequencer
    - Making settings before recording
    - Recording
    - Listening to the recorded performance
    - Playing together with the playback of a recorded performance
    - Transposing playback of performances (Master Key Shift)
  - Backing-up (saving) all RS-50 settings on your external MIDI sequencer
  - Using the RS-50 as a General MIDI/General MIDI 2 system- compatible sound module
    - Playing back General MIDI/General MIDI 2 music data
- Performing with a computer
Appendix
- Troubleshooting
- Error Messages/Messages
- Parameter list
- Original tone list
- Patch list
- Rhythm set list
- Performance list
- Arpeggio template list
- Arpeggio style list
- Multi-chord set list
- Rhythm guide list
- MIDI implementation chart
- Specifications
- Index

Roland RS-50 Owner's Manual

Pages 132

Year 2003

Language(s)

of 132

Roland RS-50 Specification

The Roland RS-50 Synthesizer is a versatile and user-friendly instrument designed to cater to both beginners and experienced musicians. It features a 61-note velocity-sensitive keyboard, providing responsive touch for dynamic performance. The synthesizer is equipped with a powerful sound engine that delivers a wide array of high-quality tones suitable for various music genres, including pop, rock, electronic, and classical.

The RS-50 boasts 64-voice polyphony, allowing for complex layering of sounds and intricate compositions without note dropouts. Its intuitive interface includes a large backlit LCD screen, making navigation through the extensive sound library and editing functions straightforward. Users have access to over 500 preset tones and 256 user-programmable patches, offering ample space for customization and creativity.

This synthesizer also incorporates a comprehensive effects section, featuring reverb, chorus, and multi-effects, enabling musicians to enhance their sound with professional-level audio processing. The RS-50's real-time control knobs and D-Beam controller provide immediate manipulation of sound parameters, fostering expressive live performances.

Connectivity options include MIDI in/out, allowing for integration with other MIDI-compatible devices, and a stereo output for connection to amplifiers or recording equipment. The lightweight and portable design of the RS-50 makes it an ideal choice for gigging musicians and those with limited studio space. With its blend of rich sound capabilities, ease of use, and robust performance features, the Roland RS-50 Synthesizer stands as a reliable tool for music creation and live performances.

Roland RS-50 F.A.Q.

How do I perform a factory reset on the Roland RS-50?

To perform a factory reset on the Roland RS-50, turn off the synthesizer. Hold down the 'Exit' and 'Utility' buttons while turning the power back on. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.

What are the steps to save a custom patch on the RS-50?

To save a custom patch, press the 'Write' button. Use the 'Value' dial to select a user memory location, then press 'Write' again to confirm the save.

How can I connect the RS-50 to a computer for MIDI use?

Connect the RS-50 to your computer using a USB-MIDI interface. Set the RS-50 to the appropriate MIDI channel and ensure your DAW is configured to receive MIDI data from the interface.

What should I do if my RS-50 is not producing sound?

First, check that the volume is turned up and the correct output is connected. Ensure that no mute settings are active. If the issue persists, check the patch settings to ensure they are configured correctly.

How do I change the tempo of an arpeggiator pattern on the RS-50?

Press the 'Arpeggio' button to access arpeggiator settings. Use the 'Tempo' knob to adjust the tempo to your desired speed.

Can I layer two sounds on the RS-50?

Yes, you can layer sounds by using the 'Dual' mode. Press the 'Dual' button, then select the two patches you wish to layer using the 'Part Select' buttons.

How do I replace the internal battery of the RS-50?

To replace the internal battery, turn off the RS-50 and unplug it. Remove the screws on the bottom panel to access the battery compartment. Replace the old battery with a new CR2032 battery, then reassemble the unit.

What is the method to adjust the pitch bend range on the RS-50?

Access the 'Pitch Bend' settings from the main menu. Use the 'Value' dial to select the desired pitch bend range, which can be set from 1 to 12 semitones.

How can I clean the keys of my RS-50 without damaging them?

Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap to gently clean the keys. Avoid using excessive water and ensure the cloth is not dripping wet. Dry the keys immediately after cleaning with a dry, soft cloth.

Is it possible to update the firmware on the Roland RS-50?

The Roland RS-50 does not support firmware updates as it is a legacy synthesizer model. Ensure all settings and functionalities are checked according to the user manual.