Contents

IMPORTANT NOTES
Contents
How To Use This Manual
Features
Panel Descriptions
- Front Panel
- Rear Panel
Button Operation and Displays
- Saving your settings
- Buttons, sliders and knobs
- Cursor
- Function buttons ([F1], [F2], [F3])
- Using the Pop-Up Menus
- Using the [INC/+] and [DEC/-] Buttons and the VALUE Dial
- Using [FADERS] and [GROUP FADERS]
- Choosing pads from the TD-8 front panel
- About the Preset Drum Kits
- About the Patterns (Accompaniment of Several Measures)
- About the Display in the Upper Part of the Screen
Quick Start
- Before You Begin Playing
  - Mounting the TD-8 to the Stand
  - Connecting Pads and Pedals
  - Connecting Your Audio System or Amp
  - Turning on the Power
    - Turning Off the Power
  - Listening to the Demo Song
- Specifying Pads and Performing
  - Specifying the Types of Pads to Be Connected
    - Making Roland Drum System V-Custom Kit Settings
    - Specifying Pads Individually
    - Setting Head Tension
    - Checking the Settings
  - Playing the Pads
    - Rim Shots
    - Cross Stick
    - Choking
    - Positional Sensing
    - Playing with Brushes
    - Hi-Hat Control Pedal
- Performing
  - Playing Sounds
    - Choosing Drum Kits
    - Adjusting the Volume
    - Adjusting the Sensitivity of a Pad
    - Listening to Metronome Clicks [CLICK]
    - Turning Effects On and Off
- Modifying a Drum Kit
  - Basics of Creating Sounds
  - Choosing an Drum Instrument
  - Editing Drum Sounds (V-EDIT)
    - Choosing the Shell Depth
    - Modifying the Head Type and Tuning
    - Adjusting the Muffling (Muting) and Strainer Tension
  - Determine the Location Where the Drums are to be Played (AMBIENCE)
  - Adjusting the Volume Balance of the Instruments [MIXER]
  - Adjusting the Tone (MASTER EQUALIZER)
- Playing Along with Accompaniment
  - Playing Back Patterns (Accompaniment of Several Measures)
  - Playing Back Songs
  - Adjusting the Volume of the Accompaniment and Click Sound
  - Muting the Drums in Patterns and Songs
- Using the Pads to Play Patterns
- Playing Along with General MIDI Scores
Advanced Use
- Chapter 1 Making the Settings for the Drum Kit
  - Choosing a Drum Kit
    - About the DRUM KIT Screen
  - Naming the Drum Kit [NAME]
  - Playing With Brushes
  - Adjusting the Pedal Hi-Hat Volume (PEDAL HI-HAT VOLUME)
  - Switching Effects On and Off
- Chapter 2 Making the Settings for Drum Instruments
  - Choosing a Pad to Edit
    - Choosing a Pad by Hitting It
    - Choosing with the Trigger Select Button
  - Preventing the Settings Screen from Being Switched (EDIT LOCK)
  - Choosing an Instrument
    - Choosing with List Display
    - Choosing from Group Names
  - Adjusting Drum Sounds (V-EDIT)
    - Choosing the Shell Depth
    - Choosing the Head Typel
    - Tuning the Head
    - Making the Settings for Muffling (Muting)
    - Adjusting the Tension of the Snare Strainer
  - Making the Settings for Pitch and Decay (EDIT)
- Chapter 3 Making the Settings for the Studio and Mixer
  - Making the Settings for the Studio (AMBIENCE)
    - Determine the Location Where the Drums are to be Played (STUDIO)
    - Changing Wall Surface Material
    - Changing the Room Size
    - Adjusting the Overall Ambience Level
    - Adjusting the Amount of Ambience for Each Instrument (AMBIENCE SEND LEVEL)
    - Adjusting the Ambience Level for Each Individual Part Group (AMBIENCE GROUP SEND LEVEL)
  - Adjusting the Sound (MASTER EQUALIZER)
  - Making the Settings for the Mixer [MIXER]
    - Adjusting the Relative Volume of Pads
    - Adjusting the Panning (Stereo Position)
    - Adjusting the Overall Drum Kit Volume
- Chapter 4 Playing While Listening to Metronome Clicks
  - Switching the Click On/Off and Setting the Volume
  - Setting the Tempo
  - Setting the Time Signature
  - Setting How the Sound Plays (Interval)
  - Choosing a Sound
  - Changing the Panning (Stereo Position)
  - Choosing the Output Destination
- Chapter 5 Playing Along with Patterns
  - Choosing a Pattern
    - About the PATTERN Screen
    - Choosing with List Display
    - Choosing from the Category
  - Playing Back a Pattern
    - Setting the Tempo
    - Choosing a Playback Method (LOOP, ONE SHOT, or TAP)
    - Transposing a Pattern (TRANSPOSE)
  - Adding a Count Sound Before Playback (COUNT IN)
  - Making the Settings for the Part
    - Choosing a Part
    - Choosing an Instrument
    - Adjusting the Volume, Ambience Send Level, Pan (Placement), and Bend Range
    - Adjusting the Overall Ambience of the Backing Parts (AMBIENCE GROUP SEND LEVEL)
  - Making the Settings for the Percussion Set
    - How to Use a Percussion Set
    - Choosing a Percussion Set
    - Adjusting the Volume and Ambience (AMBIENCE SEND LEVEL)
    - Copying Percussion Sets
    - Choosing a Percussion Instrument
    - Making the Settings for Each Instrument
  - Muting a Specific Part (PART MUTE)
    - Muting a Percussion Part
    - Checking a Part Mute Status in the Pattern or Song Playback Screen
  - Creating a Pattern by Recording a Performance (REALTIME RECORDING)
    - How to Record
    - Checking the Tones and Phrases During Realtime Recording (REHEARSAL FUNCTION)
    - Deleting Unneeded Data During Realtime Recording (REALTIME ERASE)
    - Regularizing the Timing of Performance Data When Recording (QUANTIZE)
    - Adding a Count Sound Before Recording or Playback (COUNT IN)
    - Starting Recording at the Same Time a Pad Is Hit (HIT-PAD START)
    - Importing Data from Another Sequencer
  - Editing a Pattern
    - Copying a Pattern [COPY]
    - Copying Part of a Pattern by Measures
    - Inserting a Blank Measure [INSERT]
    - Deleting a Pattern [DELETE]
    - Deleting an Unneeded Measure
    - Erasing a pattern [ERASE]
    - Erasing Unneeded Data to Make a Measure Blank
  - Naming a Pattern [NAME]
  - Setting Write Protection for a User Pattern (PATTERN LOCK)
- Chapter 6 Playing Along with Songs
  - Choosing a Song
    - About the SONG Screen
    - Choosing with List Display
  - Playing Back a Song
    - Setting the Tempo
    - Choosing a Playback Method (LOOP, or ONE SHOT)
    - Repeated Playback of a Song (LOOP PLAYBACK)
    - Adding a Count Sound Before Playback (COUNT IN)
  - Muting a Specific Part (PART MUTE)
  - Creating a Song by Arranging Patterns in the Sequence Played
    - Inserting a Pattern [INSERT]
    - Deleting an Unneeded Pattern [DELETE]
    - Transposing a Pattern [TRANSPOSE]
  - Editing a Song
    - Copying a Song [COPY]
    - Erasing All Data and Initializing a Song (SONG INITIALIZE)
  - Naming a Song [NAME]
- Chapter 7 Making Global Settings for the TD-8
  - Specifying the Pad Type (TRIGGER TYPE)
  - Setting the Pad Sensitivity (BASIC TRIGGER PARAMETERS)
  - Fine-tuning the Trigger Parameter Settings (ADVANCED TRIGGER PARAMETERS)
  - Using the TD-8 with Acoustic Drums (Acoustic Drum Trigger)
    - Specifying a Trigger Type
    - Setting the Trigger Parameters
  - Adjusting the Contrast of the Display
  - Tuning the TD-8 (MASTER TUNING)
  - Checking the Remaining Amount of Memory
  - Switching the Setting Display Automatically (NOTE CHASE)
    - Turning Note Chase On/Off
  - Choosing the Output Destination
- Chapter 8 Helpful Features
  - Changing Kits in the Desired Sequence (DRUM KIT CHAIN)
    - Creating a Drum-kit Chain
    - Playing with a Drum kit Chain
  - What You Can Do Using Pads and Foot Switches
    - Playing a Pattern by Hitting a Pad (PAD PATTERN)
    - Changing an Instruments Pitch with the Hi-Hat Control Pedal (PITCH CONTROL)
    - Using a Pad to Perform Button Operations (PAD SWITCH)
    - Using a Foot Switch to Perform Button Operations (FOOT SWITCH)
  - Copying Various Settings
    - Copying a Drum Kit (DRUM KIT COPY)
    - Copying a Drum-kit Instrument (INSTRUMENT COPY)
    - Copying Mixer Settings (MIXER COPY)
    - Copying Studio Settings (EFFECT COPY)
  - Making Settings for the Preview Button
- Chapter 9 Features Using MIDI
  - Saving Data to an External MIDI Instrument (BULK DUMP)
    - Saving Data
    - Returning Saved Data to the TD-8
    - Setting the Device ID
  - Sounding an External MIDI Sound Module by Playing a Pad
    - Specifying the Note Numbers the Pads Send
    - Setting the Gate Time
    - Setting the MIDI Channels
  - Using with the Roland SPD-20 (SOFT THRU)
  - Making Global MIDI Settings for the TD-8
    - Setting the MIDI Channel for a Part
    - Setting Priority for Playing Drums and Percussion (CHANNEL 10 PRIORITY)
    - Switching Off Local Control
    - Stopping Exchange of Program Change Messages
    - Reducing Data Sent from the FD-7 (PEDAL DATA THIN)
  - Using the TD-8 As a Sound Module
    - Setting Up the Correspondence between Pads and Received Note Numbers
    - Changing the Kit Numbers Called Up with Program Change Messages
    - Changing the percussion set Numbers Called Up with Program Change Messages
    - Changing the Settings for Parts and Percussion Sets
  - Using the TD-8 As a General MIDI Sound Module
    - Switching to the GM Mode
    - To Prevent Switching to GM Mode
    - Playing Along with a GM Score
  - MIDI Messages for Precise Expressiveness in Performances
    - Messages for Hi-Hat Control
    - Messages for Positional Sensing
  - Synchronizing with an External MIDI Instrument
Appendices
- Troubleshooting
  - Problems With the Overall Sound
  - Pad and Pedal Issues
  - MIDI-related Problems
  - Sequencer-related Problems
  - Click Issues
  - Display-related Problems
- Restoring Settings to Their Default Values
- How to Use the Acoustic Drum Trigger
- Messages and Error Messages
- About MIDI
- Preset Drum Kit List
- Drum Instrument List
- Preset Percussion Set List
- Backing Instrument List
- Preset Pattern List
- Parameter List
  - Kit Parameters
  - Pattern Parameters
  - Song Parameters
  - Setup Parameters
  - Click Parameters
  - Tempo Parameters
  - GM Mode
- MIDI Implementation
- Specifications
- Block Diagram
- Index

Roland TD-8 Owner's Manual

Pages 224

Year 1999

Language(s)

of 224

Roland TD-8 Specification

The Roland TD-8 Sound Module is a versatile electronic drum module known for its high-quality sound production and user-friendly interface. It features a comprehensive library of 1,286 percussion and drum sounds, providing a wide range of sonic possibilities for both practice and live performance. The module supports 64-voice polyphony, allowing complex and layered drum sequences without voice dropouts. Its advanced sound engine delivers responsive and dynamic performance, ensuring realistic acoustic drum emulation. The TD-8 includes 50 preset drum kits and 50 user-programmable kits, enabling customization and personalization according to the drummer's specific needs.

The module is equipped with a large, backlit LCD screen, facilitating easy navigation and editing of sounds and settings. It features Roland's COSM technology for sound modeling, offering detailed and expressive sound-shaping capabilities. Integrated effects such as reverb, chorus, and equalizer allow further sound enhancement directly within the module. The TD-8 provides a variety of connectivity options, including MIDI in/out, stereo output, and headphone jack, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio equipment and DAWs.

Additionally, it supports external triggers, making it compatible with a variety of electronic drum pads. The metronome and onboard sequencer provide valuable practice tools for drummers looking to improve timing and rhythmic accuracy. Its compact design and robust build make it suitable for both studio and stage environments, offering reliable performance. The Roland TD-8 Sound Module stands out for its combination of versatility, ease of use, and high-quality sound, making it a popular choice among professional and hobbyist drummers alike.

Roland TD-8 F.A.Q.

How do I reset the Roland TD-8 to factory settings?

To reset the TD-8 to its factory settings, turn off the module, then hold down the 'SETUP' button while turning it back on. Release the button when you see 'FACTORY RESET' on the display.

How can I connect the Roland TD-8 to an external sound system?

Use the 'OUTPUT' jacks on the TD-8 to connect to an external amplifier or PA system. Make sure to use standard 1/4-inch audio cables and adjust the output level as needed.

How can I adjust the sensitivity of the drum pads on the TD-8?

Press the 'TRIGGER' button, then use the cursor buttons to select the pad you want to adjust. Use the 'VALUE' dial to change the sensitivity settings to your preference.

What should I do if the TD-8 is not producing any sound?

Check all cable connections, ensure the volume is turned up, and verify that the headphones or amplifier are working. Additionally, check the module's settings to ensure that it is not muted.

How do I update the firmware on my Roland TD-8?

The TD-8 does not support firmware updates as it is a legacy product. Ensure you are using the module within its original specifications and settings.

Can I assign custom sounds to the pads on the TD-8?

The TD-8 does not support custom sample imports. However, you can adjust and layer the preset sounds available in the module.

What types of pedals are compatible with the TD-8?

The TD-8 is compatible with Roland's FD series hi-hat pedals and KD series kick pedals. Ensure that you have the correct cables and adapters if needed.

How can I save my custom drum kit settings on the TD-8?

After customizing your drum kit, press the 'SETUP' button, navigate to 'SAVE', and follow the prompts to store your settings in one of the user memory slots.

Why is my hi-hat pedal not responding correctly on the TD-8?

Check the pedal connection and ensure it's properly assigned in the TD-8's trigger settings. Calibrate the pedal by adjusting its sensitivity and curve settings in the module.

How do I perform a system check on the TD-8 to ensure all functions are working?

Access the 'SETUP' menu and select 'SYSTEM CHECK'. Follow the on-screen instructions to test each function and ensure all components are operating correctly.