Contents

USING THE UNIT SAFELY
IMPORTANT NOTES
Main Features
Names of Things and What They Do
- Top Panel
- Rear Panel
- Signal Flow
Chapter 1 Outputting Sounds
- Installing the Divided Pickup
- Before Connecting
- Making the Connections
- Turning On the Power
  - About the Play Screen
  - About the Information in the Display (Basic Operation)
  - Adjusting the Volume
  - Setting the Device (Amp) Connected to MAIN OUT (Output Select)
- Inputting the Divided Pickup Settings (GK Settings)
- Tuning the Bass (TUNER)
- Switching Tones (Patch)
  - About the Patch Numbers
  - Switching with the PATCH/ VALUE Dial
- Turning Off the Power
Chapter 2 Creating Sounds
- Setting the COSM BASS Tone
- One-touch Output of the Bass Direct Sound (BASS DIRECT)
- Applying the COSM Amps and Effects to Normal Pickup Sound
- Setting the COSM AMP Tone
- Setting the Effects
  - POLY FX (Poly Effect)
  - FX (Effects)
- Rearranging the Effect and Amp Connection Sequence (CHAIN)
- Specifying the tempo and key of the song to be played
  - Setting the Tempo
  - Setting the Key
- Mixing the Normal Pickup Sound with the GK Input
  - Setting the Volume Balance
  - Setting the Connection Locations for COSM Bass/Normal Pickup Sound
- Mixing Channels A and B Together (MIXER)
  - Setting the Volume and Panning for Each Channel
  - Setting the Mix Balance
  - Setting the Delay and Reverb (DELAY/REVERB)
  - Using Playing Dynamics to Control the Mix Between the Two Channels (DYNAMIC)
  - Setting the Overall Patch Volume Level (V-BASS LEVEL)
  - Adjusting the Overall Patch Tone (TOTAL EQ)
  - Setting the Output Signal and Level (OUTPUT)
- Naming a Patch (PATCH NAME)
- Saving a Patch (WRITE)
Chapter 3 Global Device Settings (SYSTEM)
- Inputting the Divided Pickup Settings
  - Selecting the Settings
  - Naming GK Settings (GK NAME)
  - Selecting the Divided Pickup Type (GK PU TYPE)
  - Inputting the Basss Scale (BASS SCALE)
  - Selecting the Position of the Divided Pickup (GK PU POS)
  - Matching the Divided Pickup and Normal Pickup Phase (GK PU PHASE)
  - Setting the Direction for the Installed Divided Pickup (GK PU DIRECTION)
  - Setting the DOWN/S1, UP/S2 Switch Arrangement (S1, S2 POS)
  - Setting the Gap Between the Pickup and the Bridge (PICKUPBRIDGE)
  - Adjusting the Sensitivity for Each String (SENS)
  - Setting Whether or Not the Divided Pickup Is Used (GK CONNCT)
  - Using Different Bass Settings in Each Patch (SET MODE)
  - Determining the Function of the GK Volume Control and DOWN/ S1, UP/S2 Switches (GK FUNC)
- Adjusting the Overall Tone According to the Environment (GLOBAL/OUTPUT SELECT)
  - Selecting the Settings
  - Naming the Settings
  - Setting the Types of Connected Devices (OUTPUT SELECT)
  - Adjusting the Overall Tone (GLOBAL EQ)
  - Controlling the Overall Effect of the Noise Suppressor (Total NS)
  - Controlling the Overall Reverb Level (Total REVERB)
  - Setting the Sounds Output from SUB OUT (SUB OUT LEVEL)
- Setting the GK VOLUME Control and Switch and the Pedal Function (SYSTEM CONTROL ASSIGN)
- Having Values from an External Pedal, GK VOLUME Control, or Other Controller Carried Over When Pa...
- Making System-wide Settings for the Features Controlled by the Function Knobs (SYSTEM DIRECT EDIT)
- Limiting the Patches That Can Be Switched (PATCH EXTENT)
- Adjusting the Screens Contrast
- Setting the Output Signal and Level (SYSTEM OUTPUT)
Chapter 4 Using the VB-99 in Combination with an FC-300
- Connecting with the RRC2 IN Connector
- Settings Related to the FC- 300
  - Settings for Control of the FC- 300
  - Setting the Operation When Patches Are Switched
- Activating the VB-99s Tuner from the FC-300 (QUICK TUNER)
- Setting the FC-300 Amp Control
Chapter 5 Using MIDI
- About MIDI
  - What You Can Do Using MIDI
  - Main Types of MIDI Messages Handled by the VB-99
  - About the MIDI Implementation
  - Exchanging MIDI Messages
  - About MIDI Channels
  - Bank Select and Program Change
- Setting the MIDI-Related Functions
- Syncing to the MIDI Clock from an External Device
- Playing an External Synthesizer Sound Module (BASS TO MIDI)
  - Setting the BASS TO MIDI Function (System Parameters)
  - Setting the BASS TO MIDI Function (Patch Parameters)
Chapter 6 Using the VB-99 Connected to a Computer Via USB
- Before Using the USB Connection
  - Switching the Driver Mode
- Setting the USB Functions
  - Setting the Digital Audio Signal Input and Output
  - Setting the Direct Monitor
- Recording the VB-99s Output with a Computer
- Using the VB-99 to Add Effects to Audio Playback from a Computer
Chapter 7 Other Functions
- Changing the Tone in Real Time with the D Beam and Ribbon Controllers
  - Adjusting the D Beam (CALIBRATION)
  - Disabling the D Beam (DISABLE)
  - Controlling Sounds by Hand Motion or the Bass Neck (D Beam Controller)
  - Adjusting the Ribbon Controller (CALIBRATION)
  - Controlling the Sounds with the Movement of Your Fingertip (Ribbon Controller)
  - Holding Sounds for Extended Periods (FREEZE)
  - Changing the Pitch as with a Tremolo Arm (T-ARM)
  - Adding Nuance to the Sound (FILTER)
- Changing the Sounds with the Function Knobs as You Play (DIRECT EDIT)
- Using the Switches, Pedals, and MIDI to Control the Sounds (CONTROL ASSIGN)
  - Activating the Virtual Expression Pedal at the Start of Operations (Internal Pedal System)
- One Touch Call Up of Favorite Patches (DIRECT PATCH)
  - Setting DIRECT PATCH
- Managing the Patches
  - Saving and Copying Patches (PATCH WRITE)
  - Exchanging the Current Patch with a Different Patch (PATCH EXCHANGE)
  - Initializing User Patches (PATCH INITIALIZE)
  - Copying Settings Between Channel A and Channel B (A/B COPY)
  - Exchanging the Channel A and Channel B Settings (A/B EXCHANGE)
  - Partially Copying Parameters in a Different Patch (MODULE COPY)
  - Partially Initializing Patch Parameters (MODULE INITIALIZE)
- Separating Patches into Groups (CATEGORY)
  - Using CATEGORY to Call Up Patches
  - Assigning a Patch to a Category
  - Naming User Categories (CATEGORY NAME)
- Storing Your Preferred Settings Individually (FAVORITE SETTINGS)
  - What are Favorite Settings?
  - Calling Up Favorite Settings
  - Changing Tone Settings
  - Saving Changed Tones
  - Naming Favorite Settings (FAVORITE NAME)
  - Searching for Patches That Use the Same Favorite Settings
- Controlling Video Images with Your Bass (V-LINK)
  - What is V-LINK?
  - Connecting the V-LINK Device
  - Switching V-LINK On and Off
  - Setting V-LINK
- Using the VB-99 on a Stand
- Using the VB-99 Mounted in a Rack
- Restoring the VB-99 to its Original Factory Condition (FACTORY RESET)
Chapter 8 Parameters Guide
- COSM BASS
- POLY FX (Poly Effect)
- FX (Effects)
  - Using the HOLD (Hold Delay)
  - Creating Harmonist Scales (Voice Interval)
- COSM AMP
- MIXER
- MASTER
  - GK VOL (GK Volume)
  - GK S1, S2 (DOWN/S1, UP/S2 Switch)
  - PANEL CTL1/CTL2 (Control Button 1/2)
  - D BEAM
  - RIBBON
  - EXP PEDAL (Expression Pedal)
  - CTL3, CTL4 (Control3, Control4)
  - FC-300 CONTROL
  - ASSIGN 116
  - DIRECT EDIT F1F6
- BASS TO MIDI
- SYSTEM
  - CONTROL ASSIGN
  - Parameters That Can Be Assigned to Controllers
  - CONTROL
  - V-LINK PATCH
  - V-LINK SYSTEM
- GLOBAL
- TUNER
Chapter 9 Appendices
- MIDI Implementation Chart
- Specifications
- VB-99 Software System Requirements
  - For Windows
  - For Mac OS
- Error Messages
- Troubleshooting
  - Problems with Sounds
  - Other Problems
Index

Roland VB-99 Owner's Manual

Pages 184

Year 2008

Language(s)

of 184

Roland VB-99 Specification

The Roland VB-99 Synthesizer is a versatile and sophisticated bass guitar synthesizer that offers extensive sound-shaping capabilities and advanced performance features. At its core, the VB-99 utilizes Roland's COSM (Composite Object Sound Modeling) technology, providing highly accurate and dynamic emulations of bass guitar tones, including vintage and modern models. The unit is equipped with dual independent signal paths, allowing users to blend and manipulate two distinct tones simultaneously, offering unprecedented flexibility in sound design.

The VB-99 features a comprehensive range of effects, from overdrive and modulation to reverb and delay, all of which can be intricately controlled via the intuitive interface. With its integrated pitch-to-MIDI converter, the VB-99 enables seamless connection to external MIDI devices, expanding its potential as a controller for virtual instruments and software synthesizers. The unit supports polyphonic tracking, ensuring accurate pitch detection even during complex playing techniques.

Connectivity options include multiple audio outputs, USB, and MIDI ports, facilitating integration with a variety of setups, whether in the studio or on stage. The VB-99 also includes a user-friendly LCD display and dedicated knobs for real-time adjustments, enhancing ease of use during live performances. The synthesizer is compatible with the GK-3B Divided Pickup, which allows for precise tracking and control of each string independently, further broadening its sonic capabilities.

Overall, the Roland VB-99 Synthesizer stands out as an innovative tool for bassists seeking to explore new sonic territories, offering a comprehensive suite of features that cater to both traditional and experimental styles.

Roland VB-99 F.A.Q.

How do I connect the Roland VB-99 to my computer for recording?

To connect the Roland VB-99 to your computer for recording, use a USB cable to connect the USB port on the VB-99 to a USB port on your computer. Ensure you have installed the necessary drivers from the Roland website. Once connected, select the VB-99 as your audio input device in your recording software.

What should I do if the VB-99 is not producing any sound?

First, check all cable connections and ensure the power supply is properly connected. Verify that the volume levels are turned up on both the VB-99 and any connected amplification devices. Additionally, check if the output settings are configured correctly in the system menu.

Can I use the VB-99 with a MIDI controller?

Yes, you can use the VB-99 with a MIDI controller. Connect the MIDI OUT port of your controller to the MIDI IN port on the VB-99. Configure the MIDI settings on the VB-99 to respond to your controller's signals.

How do I update the firmware on my Roland VB-99?

To update the firmware, download the latest firmware version from the Roland website. Connect the VB-99 to your computer via USB and follow the instructions provided with the firmware download to complete the update process.

What maintenance steps are recommended for the Roland VB-99?

Regularly dust the unit with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals. Check all cables and connections for wear and tear. Ensure the unit is stored in a cool, dry place when not in use. Periodically check for firmware updates.

How can I reset the VB-99 to factory settings?

To reset the VB-99 to factory settings, turn off the unit. Then, while holding down the WRITE button, turn the power back on. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the factory reset.

What are the steps to create a custom patch on the VB-99?

To create a custom patch, press the PATCH button and use the rotary knobs to adjust parameters like tone, effects, and modulation. Once satisfied, press the WRITE button and select a location to save your new patch.

Why is my VB-99 not recognized by my DAW?

Ensure that the VB-99 drivers are properly installed on your computer. Check your DAW settings to confirm that the VB-99 is selected as the input device. If problems persist, try using a different USB port or cable.

How do I enable the tuner function on the VB-99?

Press the TUNER button on the VB-99 to activate the tuner function. Use the on-screen display to tune each string of your instrument accurately.

Can I integrate the VB-99 with other synthesizers in my setup?

Yes, the VB-99 can be integrated with other synthesizers. Use the MIDI IN/OUT ports to connect with other devices and configure the MIDI settings to control or synchronize with your other synthesizers.