Roland VS-880EX Owner's Manual

Pages 192

Year 1998

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of 192

Roland VS-880EX Specification

The Roland VS-880EX is a versatile digital multi-track recorder designed for professional and home studio environments. It integrates a range of features suitable for both novice and expert users, offering an all-in-one solution for music production. At its core, the VS-880EX supports 8-track playback with up to 64 virtual tracks, allowing users to record multiple takes and choose the best ones for final mixing. It features 24-bit A/D and D/A conversion, ensuring high-quality audio fidelity. The device includes built-in effects with COSM-based amp modeling, reverb, and compression, providing users with a comprehensive set of tools for shaping their sound directly within the unit. The VS-880EX supports a variety of data formats, including Roland's proprietary RDAC compression system, which balances high sound quality with efficient data storage.

The user interface is designed with a clear LCD display and intuitive controls, facilitating easy navigation and operation. It includes a built-in digital mixer with automated faders and EQ on each channel, which enhances its capabilities for detailed audio mixing. Connectivity options are robust, featuring RCA and TRS input/output jacks, S/PDIF digital I/O, and MIDI in/out, enabling integration with other studio equipment. The recorder is equipped with a SCSI port for external storage devices, expanding its data management flexibility. The VS-880EX is compact and portable, making it a practical choice for mobile recording setups. Overall, the Roland VS-880EX combines advanced recording technology with user-friendly features, making it a powerful tool for music production and live performance applications.

Roland VS-880EX F.A.Q.

How do I perform a factory reset on the Roland VS-880EX?

To perform a factory reset on the Roland VS-880EX, turn off the unit, then hold down the 'Track Edit' and 'Status' buttons for tracks 5 and 6 while turning it back on. Release the buttons when the display shows "Initialize OK?". Press 'Yes' to confirm.

How can I upgrade the hard drive on my VS-880EX?

To upgrade the hard drive, ensure the new drive is compatible (IDE type with a maximum capacity of 8GB). Power off the unit, remove the screws, and replace the hard drive. Reassemble and power on the recorder, then use the 'Initialize Drive' function in the menu.

What should I do if my VS-880EX is not powering on?

If the VS-880EX won't power on, check the power cable and outlet. Ensure the power switch is in the correct position. If these are fine, try a different power cable. If it still doesn't power on, a service technician may need to inspect the unit.

How do I connect an external microphone to the VS-880EX?

Connect an external microphone to the input jacks at the back of the VS-880EX. Select the desired input channel using the 'Input Select' button on the top panel. Adjust the gain and levels accordingly using the front panel controls.

Why is there no sound during playback on my VS-880EX?

If there's no sound during playback, ensure the volume levels are up and not muted. Check that the correct output is selected and that the headphones or speakers are properly connected. Verify that the track is not soloed or muted.

Can I use the VS-880EX as an audio interface with a computer?

The VS-880EX does not natively function as a USB or FireWire audio interface. However, you can connect the outputs to a computer audio interface to record audio into a DAW.

How do I back up my projects on the VS-880EX?

To back up projects, connect an external SCSI device like a CD-R or external hard drive. Use the 'Backup' function under 'Disk' menu to transfer your projects. Make sure the SCSI device is properly terminated and recognized by the VS-880EX.

What is the maximum recording time on the VS-880EX?

The maximum recording time depends on the hard drive capacity and recording mode. In MTP (Multi-Track Pro) mode with an 8GB drive, you can record approximately 130 minutes of 8-track audio at full quality.

How do I apply effects to tracks on the VS-880EX?

To apply effects, press the 'Effect' button to access the effect menu. Use the 'Cursor' and 'Value' knobs to select and adjust effects for the desired track. You can route effects to specific tracks via the 'Patch' settings.

How can I troubleshoot a disk error on the VS-880EX?

For a disk error, first try powering off the unit and checking the connections to the hard drive. Use the 'Disk Check' function in the 'Disk' menu to identify and fix any errors. If the problem persists, consider replacing the hard drive.