Boss Audio Systems BR-900CD manual

Owner’s Manual Owner’s Manual ********** 2SX Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the BOSS BR-900CD Digital Recording Studio. Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: • USING THE UNIT SAFELY (page 2–3) • IMPORTANT NOTES (page 4–5) These sections provide important information concerning the proper operati[...]

IMPORTANT: THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE. BLUE: BROWN: 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 BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is [...]

3 013 • In households with small children, an adult should provide supervision until the child is capable of following all the rules essential for the safe operation of the unit. .......................................................................................................... 014 • Protect the unit from strong impact. (Do not drop it!)[...]

4 IMPORTANT NOTES 291a In addition to the items listed under “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” on page 2–3, please read and observe the following: Power Supply: Use of Batteries 301 • Do not use this unit on the same power circuit with any device that will generate line noise (such as an electric motor or variable lighting system). 302 • The AC ada[...]

5 IMPORTANT NOTES Handling CD-ROMs 801 • Avoid touching or scratching the shiny underside (encoded surface) of the disc. Damaged or dirty CD-ROM discs may not be read properly. Keep your discs clean using a commercially available CD cleaner. Before Using Memory Cards (CompactFlash) Using Memory Cards 704 • Carefully insert the Memory card all t[...]

6 Before Using CD-R/RW Discs Two different types of recordable disc can be used with the BR-900CD—namely, CD-R discs and CD-RW discs. What is a CD-R disc? CD-R (Compact Disc Recordable) is a CD to which data can be written. It is not possible to erase or move the data that has been written. This type of disc should be used to create audio CDs tha[...]

7 Notes When Using Mics When you insert a CD-R/RW disc to built in CD-R/RW drive... When you insert a CD-R/RW disc to built in CD-R/RW drive, lock the CD-R/RW disc at correct position according to “Insert a CD-R/RW disc” below. Please be careful to lock a CD-R/RW disc correctly. Unless, it is possible that the disc tray is stuck and unable to r[...]

8 Contents USING THE UNIT SAFELY ................... 2 IMPORTANT NOTES .......................... 4 Before Using CD-R/RW Discs ............. 6 Notes When Using Mics .................... 7 Introduction to the BR-900CD .......... 14 Features ....................................................................... 14 Memory Cards Supported by Your BR-9[...]

9 Section 1 Recording and Playback .. 47 Recording ....................................... 48 Selecting the Recording Track ................................. 48 Changing V-Tracks.................................................... 49 Changing the Position of the Input Sound (Pan)....... 49 Recording Operations ......................................[...]

10 Section 3 Using Effects ........... 83 Using the Insert Effects ................... 84 Effect Patches and Banks .......................................... 84 Editing Insert Effect Settings.................................... 85 Saving Insert Effects Settings (Write) ..................... 86 Changing How the Insert Effects are Used According to t[...]

11 Track EQ Parameter Functions ...... 112 Parameter List .......................................................... 112 Fixing the Pitch of Vocals (Pitch Correction) .......................... 113 The Pitch Correction ............................................... 113 Makeup of the Pitch Correction ............................ 113 Pitch Correctio[...]

12 Section 5 Using the CD-R/RW Drive ..... 139 Creating Audio CD ........................ 140 Precautions ............................................................... 140 Setting the Time Between Songs (Pre-Gap) ......... 140 Writing Songs to Discs ............................................ 140 Viewing the Remaining Time for Recording on Audio[...]

13 Section 8 Other Convenient Functions . 185 Adjusting the Display Contrast ...... 186 Using a Foot Switch or Expression Pedal .......................... 187 When Using a Foot Switch ..................................... 187 When Using an Expression Pedal ......................... 187 Tuning an Instrument (Tuner) ........ 188 Changing to the Tuner[...]

14 Introduction to the BR-900CD Features Simple operation The BR-900CD is designed to be operated as easily as a cassette tape recorder, even by beginners. The BR-900CD allows anyone to readily enjoy the benefits of digital recording as soon as it’s taken out of the box. So, you’ll surely have listened to the demo songs, if not gone ahead and p[...]

15 Introduction to the BR-900CD The Pitch Correction feature allows you to freely adjust the pitch of vocals, assuring that you can obtain reliable, high- quality performances. The Mastering Tool Kit allows you add compression to songs that have been mixed down and provides a variety of other effects. “Using the Insert Effects” (p. 84) “Using[...]

16 Introduction to the BR-900CD Memory Cards Supported by Your BR-900CD The BR-900CD uses CompactFlash cards as the storage media for recording and playback. The BR-900CD uses 32 MB to 1 GB CompactFlash cards with a 3.3 V power supply. For more on supported memory cards (CompactFlash) for the BR-900CD, refer to “About Memory Cards” (separate sh[...]

17 Panel Descriptions Front Panel Input section SENS knob Use this knob to adjust the sensitivity at the input jacks (e.g., GUITAR/BASS, MIC1, MIC2, and LINE). PEAK indicator This indicator shows how strong the input level is at the various input jacks (e.g., GUITAR/BASS, MIC1, and MIC2). This indicator lights at a level -6 dB lower than where soun[...]

18 Panel Descriptions [EFFECTS] Use this button to turn on and off the insert effects (p. 35, p. 84) or call up the screen for editing the various settings. This button is used to make settings for the Mastering Tool Kit. REC/PLAY section AUTO PUNCH This button is used to make settings for the automatic punch in/out function. [ON/OFF] This turns th[...]

19 Panel Descriptions The relationship between the indicator and the track conditions is given below. Off: This track contains no recorded data. Green: An audio track that contains recorded data. Flashing in red: The track is selected as the recording destination, and is in recording standby. Red: This track currently being recorded. Lighting alter[...]

20 Panel Descriptions [PAN/EQ] Pressed to access a screen where you can set the pan (left/ right location of the sound) for the playback of each track or for the input sound (p. 42, p. 49). This, also, adjusts the tone (Low, High) for each track (p. 42, p. 110). [ LOOP EFFECTS] Use this button to call up the screen for setting the send level of eac[...]

21 Panel Descriptions CD-R/RW drive Before you use the CD-R/RW drive, it is important that you first of all read “Before Using CD-R/RW Discs” (p. 6). 1. Disc tray Place the CD-R/RW discs on this tray. 2. Access indicator This indicator will light up whenever data is being read from or written to a CD-R/RW disc. 3. EJECT button Press this button[...]

22 Panel Descriptions Rear Panel fig.00-204 1. GUITAR/BASS jack High-impedance input jack to directly connect your guitar or bass. 2. MIC2 jack (XLR types) These jack allows a mic to be connected. XLR jack is provided. The BR-900CD can supply phantom power to a condenser microphone connected to this connector (p. 191). * If the connection has been [...]

23 Panel Descriptions Inserting Batteries 1. Make sure that the power of the BR-900CD is turned off. 2. Remove the battery cover on the rear panel. * When turning the unit upside-down, get a bunch of newspapers or magazines, and place them under the four corners or at both ends to prevent damage to the buttons and controls. Also, you should try to [...]

24 MEMO[...]

25 Quick Start[...]

26 Connecting Peripheral Devices Make connections as shown in the diagram below. When making any connections, make sure that all devices are turned off. fig.00-301 To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices, always turn down the volume, and turn off the power on all devices before making any connections. ● To prevent the in[...]

27 Connecting Peripheral Devices Quick Start * When using the FS-5U foot switch (sold separately), set the polarity switch as shown below. If the polarity switch is not set correctly, the foot switch may not operate properly. fig.00-304 * You can also use an FS-6 (optional) for the foot switch. If using an FS-6, connect to only one of the FS-6&apos[...]

28 Turning On / Off the BR-900CD Turning On the Power Once the connections have been completed, turn on power to your various devices in the order specified. By turning on devices in the wrong order, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to speakers and other devices. 1. Before you turn the power on, make sure of the following points. ❒ Are [...]

29 Quick Start Listening to a Demo Song Selecting a song (Song Select) Upon power-up, the song that was selected before the power was turned off is selected, and the data of that song is loaded. As soon as the data has been loaded, the Play screen appears in the display. To listen to a demo song, follow the procedure given below. fig.00-312 1. Pres[...]

30 Listening to a Demo Song In addition to the procedures given above, you can also change your current position in the song using the procedures given below. Changing the current position Elapsed time display The value given at “TIME” in the display shows the elapsed time into the song using MTC (MIDI time codes) and is expressed as follows: h[...]

31 Quick Start Recording/Playing Back a Song (1) Preparing the Memory Card The BR-900CD writes the recorded data directly to the inserted memory card. Therefore, for recording or playback, the memory card must be inserted. “Memory Cards Supported by Your BR-900CD” (p. 16) Inserting the memory card Before inserting the memory card (CompactFlash)[...]

32 Recording/Playing Back a Song 4. To continue with the initializing, press [ENTER] (YES). To cancel the operation, press [EXIT] (NO) (or [UTILITY]). When [ENTER] (YES) is pressed, initializing begins. When the initializing has been completed, “Completed!” appears in the display. “Keep power on! Song creating...” then appears in the displa[...]

33 Recording/Playing Back a Song Quick Start fig.00-405 1. Press [UTILITY]. 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “NEW,” and press [ENTER]. “Type” appears in the display. fig.00-406d 3. Turn the TIME/VALUE dial to select the desired data type. * The BR-900CD uses a sample rate of 44.1 kHz. It is not possible to change the sample rat[...]

34 Recording/Playing Back a Song Press the INPUT SELECT button of the instrument that you want to record Select the input source to record. The indicator of the selected button will light. fig.00-409 [GUITAR/BASS/MIC2] Select to record the instrument connected to the GUITAR/ BASS jack or MIC 2 jack. [MIC] Select to record the signal from a micropho[...]

35 Recording/Playing Back a Song Quick Start Adjusting the input sensitivity When input from GUITAR/BASS/MIC2 or MIC1 is selected, adjust their input sensitivity with the relevant SENS knob. fig.00-412a In order to record at a good sound level, you should adjust the input levels so that the PEAK indicator lights momentarily when a guitar is strumme[...]

36 Recording/Playing Back a Song GTR: Effect patches for use with guitars. MIC: Effect patches for use on the sound from the MIC input (i.e., vocals). LIN (LINE): Effect patches for use on the sound from CDs, MDs, and other external devices from the LINE input. SML (SIMUL): Effect patches for recording vocals and a guitar together. “Effect Patche[...]

37 Recording/Playing Back a Song Quick Start (6) Using the Rhythm What is the Rhythm? When you record, it is convenient to use the built-in Rhythm. The “Rhythm” is a dedicated Rhythm track that can not only play back Rhythm sounds as a guide during recording, you can also use it to play internal Rhythm patterns and original user-created Rhythm [...]

38 Recording/Playing Back a Song Preset Arrangements (P) The preset arrangements contain preset data. Their settings cannot be changed, and you cannot create a new preset arrangement. Song Arrangements (S) Song arrangements can be written; however, the data for song arrangements are stored along with the song data to the memory card. fig.00-420 3. [...]

39 Recording/Playing Back a Song Quick Start (7) Basic Recording Selecting the recording track 1. Press either [1]–[7/8] at REC TRACK to select the recording track. If the button flashes in red, that track is ready for recording. fig.00-423 The status of each track can be determined from the indicator on the button. Off: No recorded data exists o[...]

40 Recording/Playing Back a Song INPUT: Only the instrument sounds or other input sources are recorded to the tracks. Sounds played back from other tracks are not recorded. BOUNCE: As the sounds on different tracks are played back, they are recorded together onto another track. In Bounce mode, you can play back eight tracks simultaneously and recor[...]

41 Recording/Playing Back a Song Quick Start (8) Playing Back Recorded Music 1. Press [ZERO] to move to the time location 00:00:00-00.0. fig.00-431 2. Press [PLAY]. Use the TRACK faders to adjust the volume separately for each track. Silencing the sound of specific tracks (Track Mute) During playback, hold down [DELETE/MUTE] and press a REC TRACK b[...]

42 Recording/Playing Back a Song 4. Press [PLAY]. The [REC] and REC TRACK button indicators change from flashing in red to being continually lit and recording begins. [PLAY] lights up. Only what you are currently playing is recorded to the new track. The music that is being played back is not recorded. * If you use the INPUT LEVEL knob to turn down[...]

43 Recording/Playing Back a Song Quick Start Adjusting the tone (Track EQ) “Track EQ” is an independent two-band equalizer featured on each track that allows you to adjust the high- and low- frequency tonal qualities separately. 1. Press [PAN/EQ]. fig.00-435a 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “EQ,” and press [ENTER]. The EQ sett[...]

44 Recording/Playing Back a Song When using CHO/DLY Select from “CHORUS,” “ DELAY,” or “DBLN” (doubling). fig.00-438d When using REV Select from “HALL” or “ROOM.” fig.00-439d 4. If you want to change the settings for the selected effect, press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to select the parameter, then change the setting’s value with the TIM[...]

45 Recording/Playing Back a Song Quick Start ( 11 ) Bouncing (Putting multiple tracks together) fig.00-444a 1. Press [REC MODE] repeatedly until “BOUNCE” is indicated for REC MODE at the left of the screen. fig.00-444d ■ : V-Tracks with recorded data. ❐ : V-Tracks without data. “What are V-Tracks?” (p. 14) 2. Use CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the [...]

46 MEMO[...]

47 Section 1 Recording and Playback[...]

48 Recording Selecting the Recording Track 1. Press either [1]–[7/8] at REC TRACK to select the recording track. If the button flashes in red, that track is ready for recording. fig.01-101 The status of each track can be determined from the indicator on the button. Off: No recorded data exists on the track. Green: Recorded data exists on track. R[...]

49 Recording Section 1 Changing V-Tracks The BR-900CD is a eight-track multitrack recorder, and each track consists of eight V-Tracks. You can select any one of these V-Tracks for recording or playback. Therefore, by making use of the many V-Tracks, you can use the BR-900CD just as if it were a 64-track multitrack recorder. This allows a wide range[...]

50 Recording Recording Operations 1. Press [REC MODE] repeatedly until “INPUT” is indicated for REC MODE at the left of the screen. fig.01-109d 2. Press [REC]. [REC] flashes in red and the BR-900CD enters the recording standby state. fig.01-110 3. Press [PLAY]. The [REC] and REC TRACK buttons stop flashing in red and instead light solidly, and [...]

51 Section 1 Repeating Playback (Repeat) By using the “Repeat function” you can repeatedly play back a specified part. Repeating playback allows you to check the mixing balance or perform loop recordings (p. 56) with the punch in/out functions. The position in the song where [REPEAT] is pressed first becomes repeat start point (A), and the posi[...]

52 Repeating Playback (Repeat) Setting the Repeat Portion with Accurate Timing Normally, the repeat start and end points are registered at the exact position where [REPEAT] is pressed. This may make it difficult for you to set the repeat portion exactly as you desire. If this is the case, you can use the quantize function to have the time [REPEAT] [...]

53 Section 1 Re-recording Only a Mistake ( Punch-in/out) You may occasionally make a mistake while recording, or the performance may not turn out as you expect. In this case, you can punch in/out to re-record only the portion that is mistaken. Changing to recording during the playback of a song is referred to as punching in , and changing from reco[...]

54 Re-recording Only a Mistake (Punch-in/out) Manually punching in and out using a foot switch In operating the foot switch during playback of a song (manual patch in and out), press the foot switch once to punch in, then press it again to punch out. In order to use a foot switch When you are using a foot switch (BOSS FS-5U, Roland DP-2, etc.) to p[...]

55 Re-recording Only a Mistake (Punch-in/out) Section 1 Erasing a registered auto punch in/out location ■ To erase an auto punch-in location, press and hold AUTO PUNCH [ON/OFF] and then press [IN]. ■ To erase an auto punch-out location, press and hold AUTO PUNCH [ON/OFF] and then press [OUT]. When the settings are erased, the AUTO PUNCH [ON/OFF[...]

56 Re-recording Only a Mistake (Punch-in/out) Repeatedly Recording Over the Same Location (Loop Recording) The repeat function (p. 51) allows you to play a certain portion of a song (the loop portion) over and over again. If you used auto punch in/out together with the repeat function, the portion will be repeated so the result of the recording can[...]

57 Section 1 Canceling an Operation (Undo/Redo) Occasionally when the recording you make may not turn out as you wish, or the settings you make for an editing operation are incorrect, and you want to reverse what you have done. At these times, you can use the “Undo function.” The Undo function reverses the action you have just performed and ret[...]

58 Putting Multiple Tracks Together ( Bounce) Although the BR-900CD allows the simultaneous playback of eight tracks, when you run out of tracks, the BR-900CD also lets you copy the recordings of multiple tracks together onto one track (V-Track). This is called “bounce” (also known as bounce recording or ping-pong recording). By combining multi[...]

59 Putting Multiple Tracks Together (Bounce) Section 1 6. Use CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the TIME/VALUE dial to select the recording-destination track/V-Track. Here, set this to “34V2” (V-Track 2 of Tracks 3 and 4). fig.01-602d ■ : V-Tracks with recorded data. ❐ : V-Tracks without data. (When bouncing while recording in mono) If you turn the TIME/V[...]

60 Putting Multiple Tracks Together (Bounce) 5. Press [REC]. The CD-R/RW drive’s motor begins spinning. “Now Checking...” appears in the display. The message disappears approximately ten seconds later, indicating that preparations for bouncing have been completed. • In contrast to normal recording, you cannot press [REC] (manual punch in) a[...]

61 Section 1 Loading Songs Created with the BR-864/BR-532 You can load songs created with the BR-864 or BR-532 into the BR-900CD via memory cards. Loading Songs Created with the BR-864 First, save the song data created with the BR-864 to a memory card, then insert the memory card into the BR- 900CD. Once you record, edit, or set parameters for impo[...]

62 Displaying the Song Information Displaying the Remaining Available Recording Time Follow the procedure below to either display the elapsed recording time in the recording standby and recording screens. 1. Press [UTILITY]. 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “SYS,” and press [ENTER]. fig.01-901d 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to select “[...]

63 Section 2 Editing[...]

64 Registering Time (Locator) Using the locator function, you can register any desired time in a song as a “ locator point ” so that you can jump to that point later with just the press of a button. This function is quite useful during editing. Registering a Locator Point 1. At the Play screen, move to the location where you want to register th[...]

65 Section 2 Search for the Music’s Start and End (Scrub/Preview) Scrub function When editing a sound, some times you need to know exactly where the sound starts, or exactly where the recording with an auto punch in starts. To enable you to find these points accurately, the BR-900CD is equipped with the Scrub function. When you use the Scrub func[...]

66 Search for the Music’s Start and End (Scrub/Preview) Changing the Scrub Points Besides switching the scrub point in the Play screen (p. 65), you can also use the following method to switch the scrub point. 1. Press [UTILITY]. 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “SCR,” and press [ENTER]. fig.02-204d 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to sele[...]

67 Section 2 Editing the Performance on a Track ( Track Editing) The BR-900CD allows you to edit your songs by performing editing functions such as copying and moving data recorded on the tracks. Data is saved in its edited form when you return to the Play screen from the Track Edit screen. * During automatic updating, “Keep power on!” appears [...]

68 Editing the Performance on a Track (Track Editing) 4. Turn the TIME/VALUE dial to select “AB” and press [ENTER]. fig.02-306d 5. Use CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the TIME/VALUE dial to select the track/V-Track to copy from, and track/V- Track to copy to. 6. Press [ENTER]. fig.02-307d 7. Use [CURSOR] and turn the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the time of t[...]

69 Editing the Performance on a Track (Track Editing) Section 2 fig.02-319d 5. Use CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the TIME/VALUE dial to select the track/V-Track to copy from, and track/V- Track to copy to. 6. Press [ENTER]. fig.02-314d 7. Use [CURSOR] and the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the beginning of the portion “S” (Start) of data you want to copy. 8. [...]

70 Editing the Performance on a Track (Track Editing) fig.02-319d 4. Turn the TIME/VALUE dial to select “ALL” and press [ENTER]. fig.02-320d 5. Use CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the TIME/VALUE dial to select the track/V-Track to copy from, and track/V- Track to copy to. 6. When you are ready to execute the copy, press [ENTER]. The display will ask “Are [...]

71 Editing the Performance on a Track (Track Editing) Section 2 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “MOV,” and press [ENTER]. fig.02-324d 4. Turn the TIME/VALUE dial to select “AB” and press [ENTER]. fig.02-325d 5. Use CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the TIME/VALUE dial to select the track/V-Track to move from, and track/V- Track to move to. 6[...]

72 Editing the Performance on a Track (Track Editing) fig.02-331d 5. Use CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the TIME/VALUE dial to select the track/V-Track to move from, and track/V- Track to move to. 6. Press [ENTER]. fig.02-332d 7. Use [CURSOR] and the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the beginning of the portion “S” (Start) of data you want to move. 8. Press [ENT[...]

73 Editing the Performance on a Track (Track Editing) Section 2 5. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the TIME/VALUE dial to select the track/V-Track to move from, and track/V- Track to move to. 6. Press [ENTER]. fig.02-338d 7. Use [CURSOR] and the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the time of the beginning of the location “T” (To) where you want the data to be[...]

74 Editing the Performance on a Track (Track Editing) fig.02-341d 4. Turn the TIME/VALUE dial to select “AB” and press [ENTER]. fig.02-342d 5. Use CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the TIME/VALUE dial to select the track/V-Track to erase from. 6. When you are ready to execute the erasure, press [ENTER]. The display will ask “Are you sure?,” so that you ca[...]

75 Editing the Performance on a Track (Track Editing) Section 2 5. Use CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the TIME/VALUE dial to select the track/V-Track to erase from. 6. Press [ENTER]. fig.02-347d 7. Use [CURSOR] and the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the beginning of the portion “S” (Start) of data you want to erase. 8. Press [ENTER]. fig.02-348d4 9. Use [CURSO[...]

76 Editing the Performance on a Track (Track Editing) Exchanging Data (Track Exchange) Perform the procedure given below to exchange the data between two tracks. Example: exchanging all the data on track 1 with all the data on track 2 fig.02-352 1. Press [UTILITY]. 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “TRK,” and press [ENTER]. fig.02-3[...]

77 Section 2 Organizing the Songs You’ve Recorded Copying a Song (Song Copy) Follow the procedure below to copy the currently selected song. 1. Press [UTILITY]. 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “EDT,” and press [ENTER]. fig.02-401d 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “CPY,” and press [ENTER]. The Copy Song screen ap[...]

78 Organizing the Songs You’ve Recorded Saving Memory on the Memory Card (Song Optimize) When you perform overdubbing or punch-in/out, the data that you rewrite (replace) actually remains on the memory card. In some cases, this unwanted data may occupy a significant amount of space on the memory card. This will cause the time available for record[...]

79 Organizing the Songs You’ve Recorded Section 2 Protecting a Song ( Song Protect) You can imagine situations where, after taking care to create a song, you accidentally overwrite it with a recording, deleting the performance itself. To prevent such accidents, you can protect song data so that it cannot be rewritten accidentally (Song Protect). [...]

80 Creating a Master Tape / Disc This process involves recording the finished song to your recorder (cassette tape recorder, CD recorder, etc.) and making a master tape or a master disc. Recording to a Cassette Tape Recorder (Analog Connection) 1. Connect the BR-900CD’s LINE OUT jacks to the cassette tape recorder's input jacks. fig.02-501a [...]

81 Creating a Master Tape / Disc Section 2 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “DPRT,” and press [ENTER]. The Digital Copy Protect screen appears. fig.02-502d 4. Rotate TIME/VALUE dial to select the “ON.” ON: Digital copying will be prohibited. OFF: Digital copying is enabled. 5. Press [UTILITY] (or press [EXIT] repeatedly) to ret[...]

82 MEMO[...]

83 Section 3 Using Effects[...]

84 Using the Insert Effects The BR-900CD comes with five effects processors: an insert effects, loop effects, Track EQ, Pitch Correction, and Mastering Tool Kit. An insert effects, loop effects, and Track EQ can be used simultaneously, and you can make settings for each effect as desired. Here is an explanation of how to change the various paramete[...]

85 Using the Insert Effects Section 3 Editing Insert Effect Settings If you wish to create a new effect sound, you should first select an existing patch that is closest to the sound you want, and then edit its settings. If you wish to save the effect settings that you edited, save them as a user patch or song patch. 1. Press [EFFECTS]. The Effect s[...]

86 Using the Insert Effects Saving Insert Effects Settings (Write) Follow the procedure below to enter a name (patch name) for an effect that you’ve modified, and save it as a new effect patch. * You cannot save an effect patch during the recording or playback of a song. * If you do not need to change patch name, go to step 4. 1. At the Effect sc[...]

87 Using the Insert Effects Section 3 Changing How the Insert Effects are Used According to the Mode By default, the insert effect is inserted immediately after the input source. The reason for this is to allow for the effects- processed (wet) sound to be recorded and monitored. However, sometimes you want to change the connection order. On the BR-[...]

88 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Algorithm List The algorithms (the available effects and their connection order) that can be used as an insert effect are shown below. The algorithms that can be selected will differ for each bank. To select the algorithm that you wish to use, first select the effect bank that includes that algorithm, and then r[...]

89 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Section 3 3. BASS SIM Simulates the sound of a bass guitar. Obtain the sound of a bass guitar while playing an electric guitar. * You should avoid playing chords when using the Bass Simulator. fig.04-108 Bass Simulator Compressor/Defretter - Compressor - Defretter Noise Suppressor Foot Volume Modulation - Flange[...]

90 Insert Effect Parameter Functions 7. COSM BASS AMP This is a multi-effect designed for bass guitar. This features an amp sound that uses a preamp and speaker simulator. fig.04-113 Compressor Preamp Speaker Simulator 4Band Equalizer/Wah - 4Band Equalizer - Wah Noise Suppressor Foot Volume Modulation - Flanger - Chorus - Phaser - Pitch Shifter - D[...]

91 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Section 3 11. COSM COMP VCL This is a multi-effect designed for vocals. The COSM compressor/limiter is perfect for creating a basic sound. fig.04-117 COSM Comp/Limiter De-esser Enhancer 4Band Equalizer Noise Suppressor Foot Volume Delay 12. STEREO MULTI This algorithm connects seven types of effect, all in full [...]

92 Insert Effect Parameter Functions 14. VO+GT AMP This algorithm is for use when simultaneously recording a vocal and electric guitar. For the guitar, you can produce an amp sound using a preamp and speaker simulator. (GUITAR) fig.04-121 (MIC) fig.04-120 (GUITAR) Compressor PreAmp Speaker Simulator Noise Suppressor Delay (MIC) Compressor 4Band Equ[...]

93 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Section 3 Parameter List Acoustic Guitar Simulator This simulates the sound of an acoustic guitar. It allows you to use an electric guitar to produce sounds similar to those of an acoustic guitar. If you set the pickup selector of your guitar to the front position, the desired effect will be easier to achieve. O[...]

94 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Chorus A sound with a subtly shifted pitch is added to the direct sound, making the final output sound thicker and broader. Best results will be achieved when stereo recording. * This effect can be used when the MODULATION “Type” parameter is set to “CHORUS.” On/Off OFF, ON This parameter turns the choru[...]

95 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Section 3 De-esser Useful for reducing ‘sibilant’ or ‘S’ sounds produced by a vocalist. On/Off OFF, ON This parameter turns the de-esser effect on/off. Sibilant 0–100 Adjusts the sensitivity relative to the input volume, which controls how the effect is applied. Level 0–100 Adjusts the volume. Defret[...]

96 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Equalizer A 4-band equalizer. * You can use this effect with the following algorithms when “4BAND EQ” is selected for the 4BAND EQ/WAH “Type” setting. COSM GTR AMP COSM BASS AMP COSM COMP GTR COSM COMP BSS BASS MULTI STEREO MULTI On/Off OFF, ON This parameter turns the equalizer effect on/off. Low Gain -[...]

97 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Section 3 ■ When “DIGITAL” is selected Pre Filter OFF, ON This filter decreases digital distortion. When turned off, you can create an intense lo-fi sound incorporating digital distortion. Smpl Rate OFF, 1/2–1/32 Modify the sample rate. Bit OFF, 15–1 Modify the number of data bits. If this is turned of[...]

98 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Pitch Shifter This effect changes the pitch of the original sound (up or down) within a range of two octaves. * This effect can be used when the MODULATION “Type” parameter is set to “PITCH SFT.” On/Off OFF, ON This parameter turns the pitch shifter effect on/off. Type Selects either manual pitch shifter[...]

99 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Section 3 ■ With “COSM BASS AMP” or “COSM COMP BSS” algorithms Volume 0–100 Adjusts the volume and distortion of the amp. Bass GUITAR AMP: 0–100, BASS AMP:-100– +100 Adjusts the tone for the low frequency range. Middle GUITAR AMP: 0–100, BASS AMP:-100– +100 Adjusts the tone for the middle fre[...]

100 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Speaker Simulator This simulates the characteristics of various types of speakers. When the output of the BR-900CD is connected directly to a mixer, etc., this can be used to create the sound of your favorite speakers system. On/Off OFF, ON This parameter turns the speaker simulator effect on/off. Type Selects [...]

101 Insert Effect Parameter Functions Section 3 Wah The wah effect creates a unique tone by changing the frequency response characteristics of a filter. Touch wah creates an automatic wah by changing the filter in response to the volume of the input. Pedal wah lets you use an Expression pedal or the like to obtain real-time control of the wah effec[...]

102 Mastering Use the “Mastering Tool Kit” to produce a two-track master of the bounce tracks with the levels optimized. * In Mastering mode, the following buttons are disabled after you set the recording source and destination and return to the Play screen. In addition, you cannot change the point to which the insert effects are connected (p. [...]

103 Mastering Section 3 5. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to select the Preset/Song/ User patch and number for the Mastering Tool Kit. “Mastering Tool Kit Patch List” (p. 205) 6. Press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen. The overall volume is adjusted by the MASTER fader. At this time, raise the volume as high as possible without allowing the sound t[...]

104 Mastering 5. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to each effect and turn the TIME/VALUE dial to turn each effect on or off. Blocks that are turned on are shown in uppercase letters, while blocks that are turned off are shown in lowercase letters. Turn on the effects that you want to use. 6. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to the eff[...]

105 Section 3 Mastering Tool Kit Parameter Functions Algorithm fig.04-204 Equalizer Bass Cut Filter Enhancer Input Expander Compressor Mixer Limiter Output Parameter List Equalizer On/Off OFF, ON This parameter turns the equalizer effect on/off. Input Gain -24 – +12 dB Sets the overall volume before passing through the equalizer. Low Type SHELVG,[...]

106 Mastering Tool Kit Parameter Functions Bass Cut Filter This is a filter that cuts unwanted low range noise, such as pops. On/Off OFF, ON This setting turns the Bass Cut Filter on/off. Freq 20 Hz–2.0 kHz This sets the frequency containing popping or other undesirable lower-range noises that you want to cut. Enhancer This adds more liveliness t[...]

107 Mastering Tool Kit Parameter Functions Section 3 Compressor This compresses the overall output signal when the input volume level exceeds a set value. On/Off OFF, ON This parameter turns the compressor effect on/off. Lo Thres -24–0 dB This sets the volume level at which the lower-range compressor goes into effect. Lo Ratio 1:1.00–1:16.0, 1:[...]

108 Using the Loop Effects/Track EQ Here is an explanation of how to change the various parameters for the loop effects (chorus/delay/doubling/ reverb). For an explanation of loop effects, refer to “Loop Effect Parameter Functions” (p. 111). Loop effects do not have “patches.” Loop effect settings are saved along with the song data. If you [...]

109 Using the Loop Effects/Track EQ Section 3 Adjusting How the Loop Effect is Applied The following explains how you can alter the volume of the signals sent by each track to the loop effects (the send level), and control the degree to which the loop effects are applied. 1. Press [LOOP EFFECTS]. 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “CHO[...]

110 Using the Loop Effects/Track EQ Setting the Track EQ This section explains how to edit the Track EQ settings (parameters). For a fuller description of Track EQ, refer to “Track EQ Parameter Functions” (p. 112). Track EQ do not have “patches.” Loop effect settings are saved along with the song data. If you want to save the settings in th[...]

111 Section 3 Loop Effect Parameter Functions Parameter List CHORUS/DELAY/DBLN (Doubling) This selects the chorus, delay, or doubling effect. FX Type This sets the type of the effect. CHORUS: A sound with a subtly shifted pitch is added to the direct sound, making the final output sound thicker and broader. DELAY: This creates a thicker sound by ap[...]

112 Track EQ Parameter Functions Parameter List This is a two-band equalizer that is independent for each track. If you adjust the equalizer while listening to the sound, you may notice a clicking noise. This is not a malfunction. If the noise is objectionable, make adjustments while the sound is not playing. On/Off OFF, ON This parameter turns the[...]

113 Section 3 Fixing the Pitch of Vocals ( Pitch Correction) The Pitch Correction The term Pitch Correction is used to describe a group of effects that are used on recorded vocal tracks to fix incorrect pitches. When compared with guitars, pianos, and other musical instruments, the human voice generally produces a relatively unstable tone. And when[...]

114 Fixing the Pitch of Vocals (Pitch Correction) Using the Pitch Correction Let’s now use the BR-900CD’s pitch correction feature to clean up some mistakes in a solo vocal part. Using this feature, we will be able to correct pitches in real time and in semitone units. 1. Before using pitch correction, record a solo vocal track to work with. 2.[...]

115 Fixing the Pitch of Vocals (Pitch Correction) Section 3 Setting the Correction Method for Vocal Pitch (Pitch Correction Edit) Each of the preset patches 1 through 5 uses a slightly different method for correcting pitches. Normally, it will be sufficient to select the patch that gives the results you like best; however, if you cannot achieve fav[...]

116 Fixing the Pitch of Vocals (Pitch Correction) 5. Turn the TIME/VALUE dial to select the patch number to which to write the new patch. 6. After you’ve selected the destination, press [ENTER]. After the save has been completed, you are returned to the Pitch Correction patch selection screen. * During updating, “Keep power on!” appears in th[...]

117 Fixing the Pitch of Vocals (Pitch Correction) Section 3 6. Use [CURSOR] to move the cursor to “Smth” and specify the correction speed. Smth (Smooth) -100–+100 The value set here is added to the value for the “Smooth” patch parameter (p. 115). When set to 0, the correction proceeds at the rate set in the patch’s “Smooth” paramete[...]

118 MEMO[...]

119 Section 4 Using the Rhythm[...]

120 Using the Rhythm The “Rhythm” is a dedicated Rhythm track that can not only play back Rhythm sounds as a guide during recording, you can also use it to play internal Rhythm patterns and original user-created Rhythm patterns and to play and record these patterns as your own Rhythm part performances. The Rhythm features two modes, “Pattern [...]

121 Using the Rhythm Section 4 Switching the Rhythm Mode The Rhythm mode switches each time [ARRANGE/ PATTERN/OFF] is pressed. [ARRANGE/PATTERN/OFF]: Lit (Arrangement Mode) Performance and programming of arrangements is enabled. Press [PLAY] to start the performance of the arrangement. * You cannot play back or record during programming. [ARRANGE/P[...]

122 Using the Rhythm Selecting patterns This selects the pattern to be played with the Rhythm. 1. Press [ARRANGE/PATTERN/OFF] repeatedly until the indicator is flashing. fig.03-203d 2. Select a pattern. Use CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the TIME/VALUE dial to select the Preset/Song and number. P001–P327: Preset patterns 1–327 S001–S100: Song patterns 1?[...]

123 Section 4 Creating Original Arrangements You can create arrangements (Song arrangements) of up to 999 measures. 1. Make sure performance of the song is stopped, then press [ARRANGE/PATTERN/OFF] repeatedly until the indicator is lit. fig.03-301d 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] and the TIME/VALUE dial to select the Arrangement number. 3. Press [EDIT]. Th[...]

124 Creating Original Arrangements Inserting a Step Perform the procedure below to insert a new step into the location of the present step. fig.03-305 * The parameter value of inserted step will be the same as of the targeted step. 1. Make sure performance of the song is stopped, then press [ARRANGE/PATTERN/OFF] repeatedly until the indicator is li[...]

125 Creating Original Arrangements Section 4 4. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] and turn the TIME/VALUE dial to change the characters. * Press [ENTER] to switch between uppercase and lowercase. 5. Press [EXIT] repeatedly to return to the Play screen. * During updating, “Keep power on!” appears in the upper line of the display, while the lower line shows w[...]

126 Creating Original Patterns When creating a Rhythm arrangement by stringing together Rhythm patterns, there may be times when you do not find anything suitable among the preset Rhythm patterns, or when you want to get a Rhythm pattern that sounds exactly the way you want. In such cases, you can create your own original Rhythm patterns. There are[...]

127 Creating Original Patterns Section 4 4. Use [CURSOR] and the TIME/VALUE dial to set the measure, beat, and click from which to start recording of the pattern. Measure This sets the number of measures in the pattern to be recorded. Valid Settings: 1–999 Tempo When recording, this sets the tempo for confirming the pattern. Valid Settings: 25.0?[...]

128 Creating Original Patterns * When a coarse Quantize setting is used, the ▼ mark may indicate half-note or quarter-note timing. fig.03-405 fig.03-405a When using high-resolution Quantize settings, you may be unable to view the entire pattern, from start to finish, in the display at one time. In such instances, a “ ” symbol appears, indicat[...]

129 Creating Original Patterns Section 4 5. Rehearse the performance by pressing the REC TRACK [1]–[6]. You can switch the UPPER and LOWER drum sounds by pressing [RHYTHM PAD]. * At this point, adjust Fader 1 to confirm the velocity status. 6. When you have finished rehearsing, move the cursor to “STOP” and press [ENTER]. * You can also quit [...]

130 Creating Original Patterns Creating Patterns in Step Recording 1. Press [ARRANGE/PATTERN/OFF] repeatedly until the indicator is flashing. fig.03-415d 2. Press [EDIT]. fig.03-416d 3. Press [CURSOR] to move the cursor to “STEP,” and press [ENTER]. “STEP” appears in REC MODE at the left of the screen. The recording standby screen appears i[...]

131 Creating Original Patterns Section 4 7. Set the velocity (how “hard” the note is played) for the sounds to be input from the current point by adjusting Fader 1. fig.03-423d 8. Input the drum sounds. There are two ways to input drum sounds. (Method 1) Inputting with the REC TRACK buttons Use REC TRACK [1]–[6] to input the drum sounds. You [...]

132 Creating Original Patterns 9. Set the tempo and Quantize values as needed. 10. Repeat Steps 6–9 as needed. * Press [PLAY] to listen to the recording pattern. 11. When you have finished inputting sounds, move the cursor to “STOP” and press [ENTER]. * You can also stop recording by pressing [STOP]. Changing the velocity During Step Recordin[...]

133 Creating Original Patterns Section 4 Copying Patterns 1. Press [ARRANGE/PATTERN/OFF] repeatedly until the indicator is flashing. 2. Press [EDIT]. 3. Press [CURSOR] to move the cursor to “COPY,” and press [ENTER]. The Pattern Copy screen appears. fig.03-429d 4. Turn the TIME/VALUE dial to select the copy- destination arrangement. S001–S100[...]

134 Using the Drum Kits A drum kit is a variety of rhythm instrument sounds collected in a single set; the BR-900CD includes nine internal “preset drum kits.” In addition, you can also put together an additional five original “song drum kits.” Song drum kits are saved to individual songs on memory cards. The drum kit instrument sounds are u[...]

135 Using the Drum Kits Section 4 5. Press [EXIT] repeatedly to return to the Play screen. * Drum kits are stored to each individual arrangement separately. (Example) Arrangement Drum Kit ROCK 1 ............... ROOM ROCK 2 ............... STD 2 : : Creating Original Drum Kits (Tone Load) With the BR-900CD, you can create original drum kits not only[...]

136 Using the Drum Kits 5. Use [CURSOR] and the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the range (start and end points) of drum sounds to be loaded in terms of measures or time locations. * You cannot specify an interval between the start and end points or a length of time in less than 100 ms or excess of 13 seconds. * When specifying measures, the result is r[...]

137 Using the Drum Kits Section 4 Copying drum sounds from other drum kits 1. Press [UTILITY]. 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “TONE,” and press [ENTER]. fig.03-505d 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “COPY,” and press [ENTER]. fig.03-519d 4. Turn the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the copy- destination drum kit, then p[...]

138 Using the Drum Kits Erasing drum sounds 1. Press [UTILITY]. 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “TONE,” and press [ENTER]. 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “ERASE,” and press [ENTER]. fig.03-523d 4. Turn the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the erase drum kit, then press [ENTER]. S1–5: Song Drum Kit 1–5 fig.03-524d [...]

139 Section 5 Using the CD-R/ RW Drive[...]

140 Creating Audio CD Precautions In addition to CD-R discs, you can also use CD-RW discs when making audio CDs. However, it may not be possible for audio CDs created using CD-RW discs to be played on standard CD players. Furthermore, even when CD-R discs are used for this purpose, playback will not be possible on CD players that do not support thi[...]

141 Creating Audio CD Section 5 4. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “AUDIO,” and press [ENTER]. The Audio CD menu screen will appear. fig.05_CDaudio 5. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “WRITE,” and press [ENTER]. The Audio CD Write screen will appear. fig.05_CDdawrite 6. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to choose the track and V-[...]

142 Creating Audio CD Viewing the Remaining Time for Recording on Audio CDs Use the following procedure to see how much time you have left for recording on an audio CD. 1. Insert a CD-R or CD-RW disc into the CD-R/RW drive. 2. Press [CD-R/RW]. The CD menu screen will appear. fig.05_CDmenu 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “AUDIO,” a[...]

143 Creating Audio CD Section 5 5. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to select the song that you want to listen to. fig.05-CDplay2 6. Press [PLAY]. The message “Now Playing...” will appear, and playback of the audio CD will begin. fig.05-CDplay3 The buttons work as shown below. [STOP] Stop [PLAY] Play [REW] Rewind [FF] Fast forward 7. If you want to fini[...]

144 Creating Audio CD 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “AUDIO,” and press [ENTER]. The Audio CD menu screen will appear. fig.05_CDaudio 4. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “FINAL,” and press [ENTER]. The message “Finalize CD OK?” will appear. fig.05_CDfinalize 5. Press [ENTER] (YES). (If you want to cancel finaliz[...]

145 Section 5 Using the CD-R/RW Drive to Exchange Data The BR-900CD’s built-in CD-R/RW drive can be used to exchange data in the following ways: ● Storing of songs and other data on the memory card to CD-R/RW discs (Backup) ● Reading songs and other backup data back into the memory card (Recover) ● Exchanging of waveform data with a PC When[...]

146 Using the CD-R/RW Drive to Exchange Data 6. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to select the song you want to back up, and press [ENTER]. The Write Speed screen will appear. fig.05-CDdawrite2 7. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to set the write speed, and press [ENTER]. The message “Write sure?” will appear. • The range of available write speeds can sometime[...]

147 Using the CD-R/RW Drive to Exchange Data Section 5 Loading Saved Songs to a Memory Card (Recover) Loading saved songs to a memory card one at a time (Song Recover) 1. Insert a CD-R/RW disc containing backup songs into the BR-900CD’s CD-R/RW drive. The drive’s access indicator will begin to flash. Wait until this indicator stops flashing and[...]

148 Using the CD-R/RW Drive to Exchange Data Copying and Writing Waveform Data This procedure requires a computer equipped with a drive capable of writing to CD-R/RW discs. If you have a computer equipped with a CD-R/RW drive, you can use CD-R/RW discs to transfer waveform data between multiple BR-900CDs. You can, for example, use these discs to co[...]

149 Using the CD-R/RW Drive to Exchange Data Section 5 7. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to select the waveform data files you want to import, and press [ENTER]. The screen for specifying the import destination appears. fig.05-CDwavimp2 8. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the import- destination track, and press [ENTER]. Copying of the waveform data beg[...]

150 Using the CD-R/RW Drive to Exchange Data 6. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to select the data files you want to import, and press [ENTER]. The Drum kit select screen appears. fig.05-CDton2 7. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the dum kit, and press [ENTER]. The Drum sound select screen appears. fig.05-CDton3 8. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the [...]

151 Using the CD-R/RW Drive to Exchange Data Section 5 8. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to set the write speed, and press [ENTER]. The message “Are you sure?” appears. The range of available write speeds can sometimes be limited by the type of media being used. In such a case, the BR- 900CD will allow you to select only the supported speeds. 9. Press[...]

152 Using the CD-R/RW Drive to Exchange Data 4. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “DATA,” and press [ENTER]. The Data CD menu screen will appear. fig.05_CDdata 5. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “SMF,” and press [ENTER]. The SMF menu screen will appear. fig.05-CDsmf 6. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “PLAY,?[...]

153 Using the CD-R/RW Drive to Exchange Data Section 5 5. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “SMF,” and press [ENTER]. The SMF menu screen will appear. fig.05-CDsmf 6. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “IMPORT,” and press [ENTER]. The SMF import screen appears. fig.05-CDsmfplay If the SMFs are collected in a folder, then th[...]

154 Importing Songs from CDs to Audio Tracks The BR-900CD allows you to import selected songs from a audio CD to audio tracks. (CD-R/RW Write) 1. Insert a audio CD into the BR-900CD’s CD-R/RW drive. The drive’s access indicator will begin to flash. Wait until this indicator stops flashing and turns off before proceeding. 2. Press [CD-R/RW]. The[...]

155 Section 6 Using MIDI[...]

156 MIDI Fundamentals By using MIDI to connect the BR-900CD to other MIDI- capable devices, you can perform the following: ● Play rhythm performances on external MIDI sound module ● Synchronize with external MIDI sequencers and rhythm machines ● Control MMC-compatible devices from the BR-900CD This section provides a basic description of MIDI[...]

157 Section 6 Synchronizing with MIDI Devices Using the Rhythm to Play an External MIDI Sound Module Perform the procedure given below to use a MIDI sound module and choose the sounds you desire for the Rhythm. 1. Use a MIDI cable to connect the BR-900CD and your MIDI sound module as shown in the diagram. fig.05-401 2. Press [UTILITY]. 3. Press CUR[...]

158 Synchronizing with MIDI Devices Synchronizing Playback with a MIDI Sequencer The BR-900CD can operate in synchronization with a MIDI sequencer. When synchronizing with a MIDI sequencer, it is possible to synchronize the MIDI sequencer using the BR-900CD (i.e., with the BR-900CD as the master), but it is not possible to synchronize the BR-900CD [...]

159 Synchronizing with MIDI Devices Section 6 25: 25 frame per second frame rate. This is used for SECAM or PAL format video, audio equipment, and film (used in Europe and elsewhere). 24: 24 frame per second frame rate. This is used for video, audio devices, and film in the US. 6. Press [UTILITY] (or press [EXIT] repeatedly) to return to the Play s[...]

160 Synchronizing with MIDI Devices Using MMC MMC stands for “MIDI Machine Control.” This is a protocol that uses MIDI System Exclusive messages to remotely control multiple recording devices from one device. Your BR- 900CD supports the MMC protocol. By using MMC, your BR-900CD can send commands such as PLAY, STOP, and FF to connected MIDI devi[...]

161 Section 7 Using USB[...]

162 Before Using USB (Overview) The BR-900CD is equipped with a USB connector, which allows you to connect the BR-900CD directly to a computer, making it easy to back up your important song data and exchange files between the BR-900CD and the computer. What is USB? USB, short for “Universal Serial Bus,” is a type of interface for connecting com[...]

163 Before Using USB (Overview) Section 7 USB Folder WAV and AIFF files loaded to the BR-900CD’s tracks, and WAV and AIFF files saved on computers (track data converted to WAV and AIFF format) will be saved here (p. 165, p. 167, p. 176, p. 178). Folders and files created on memory cards are displayed on the computer screen. When you continue with[...]

164 With Windows Backing Up the BR-900CD’s Data 1. Connect your computer and the BR-900CD with a USB cable. 2. Confirm that the recorder is stopped, then press [UTILITY]. 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “USB,” and press [ENTER]. The USB screen appears. 4. Select “BACKUP” with the TIME/VALUE dial, then press [ENTER]. The Idli[...]

165 With Windows Section 7 * If you press [EXIT] without quitting the connection to the computer, the following screens appear. In this case, pressing [ENTER] returns the USB screen to the display. fig.06-106ad 8. When backup of the data is complete, press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen. At this point, you can safely disconnect the USB cable f[...]

166 With Windows 7. Press [ENTER]. Conversion of the WAV or AIFF file begins. Files names are converted as shown below. * Converting songs takes approximately the same amount of time (twice as long in stereo) to complete as it does to play the source song data. When the conversion is complete, the “BOSS_BR-900” (or “Removable disk (*:)”) ic[...]

167 With Windows Section 7 Loading WAV/AIFF Files in BR- 900CD Tracks (WAV/AIFF Import) You can take WAV or AIFF files on your computer, such as files created with audio software applications, and load them to the BR-900CD’s tracks. ● Wave data in the following formats can be imported. You cannot import wave data in other formats. • WAV or AI[...]

168 With Windows 7. Copy the WAV or AIFF files you want to import. 1) Click the “BOSS_BR-900” (or “Removable disk (*:)”) icon. 2) Drag the imported WAV or AIFF file to the “USB” folder in the “ROLAND” folder. * Only one file can be imported at a time in each import operation. Do not drag and drop more than one file at a time. fig.06[...]

169 With Windows Section 7 Importing SMFs and Creating Patterns You can import SMFs (Standard MIDI Files) stored on memory cards as song patterns. You can easily increase your collection of song patterns by creating SMFs on your computer or other device and copying them to memory cards. ● You cannot import SMFs containing more than 999 measures. [...]

170 With Windows 7. Press BR-900CD’s [EXIT] repeatedly to return to the Play screen. * If you press [EXIT] without quitting the connection to the computer, the following screens appear. In this case, pressing [ENTER] and then [EXIT] returns the Play screen to the display. fig.06-106ad At this point, you can safely disconnect the USB cable from th[...]

171 With Windows Section 7 Loading Drum Sounds from WAV/AIFF Files (Tone Load) You can import WAV and AIFF files on your computer and load these as drum sounds (TONE LOAD). ● The Rhythm and Tone Load functions cannot be used when tracks are bounced directly to a CD (p. 59). ● Wave data in the following formats can be imported. You cannot import[...]

172 With Windows 2) Click [OK] in the “Safe To Remove Hardware” dialog box that appears. With Windows 2000/Me 1) In My Computer, right-click on the “BOSS_BR- 900” icon (or “Removable disk (*:)” icon) to “Eject” the disk. 2) Click the icon in the task tray, then click the “Stop USB Disk—drive (*:)” message displayed there. fig.[...]

173 With Windows Section 7 Using the BR-864 / BR-532’s Data You can use the BR-900CD to play BR-864 (or BR-532) data. * First be sure to back up the BR-864 / BR-532’s “ROLAND” folder to the computer. 1. Initializing the memory card on the BR-900CD (p. 196). 2. Connect your computer and the BR-900CD with a USB cable. 3. Confirm that the reco[...]

174 With Windows 9. Press the BR-900CD’s [EXIT]. The USB screen returns to the display. * If you press [EXIT] without quitting the connection to the computer, the following screens appear. In this case, pressing [ENTER] returns the USB screen to the display. fig.06-106ad 10. When backup of the data is complete, press [EXIT] to return to the Play [...]

175 Section 7 With Macintosh Backing Up the BR-900CD’s Data 1. Connect your computer and the BR-900CD with a USB cable. 2. Confirm that the recorder is stopped, then press [UTILITY]. 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “USB,” and press [ENTER]. The USB screen appears. 4. Select “BACKUP” with the TIME/VALUE dial, then press [ENTE[...]

176 With Macintosh Saving BR-900CD Track Data in WAV/AIFF Format (WAV/AIFF Export) You can convert the BR-900CD’s track data into WAV or AIFF files and save these on your computer. After converting your mastered tracks to WAV or AIFF files, you can easily use your computer to create audio CDs with the data, as well as load the data into audio app[...]

177 With Macintosh Section 7 7. Press [ENTER]. Conversion of the WAV or AIFF file begins. Files names are converted as shown below. * Converting songs takes approximately the same amount of time (twice as long in stereo) to complete as it does to play the source song data. When the conversion is complete, the “BOSS_BR-900” icon is added to the [...]

178 With Macintosh Loading WAV/AIFF Files in BR-900CD Tracks (WAV/AIFF Import) You can take WAV or AIFF files on your computer, such as files created with audio software applications, and load them to the BR-900CD’s tracks. ● Wave data in the following formats can be imported. You cannot import wave data in other formats. • WAV or AIFF format[...]

179 With Macintosh Section 7 7. Copy the WAV or AIFF files you want to import. 1) Double-click the “BOSS_BR-900” icon. 2) Drag the imported WAV or AIFF file to the “USB” folder in the “ROLAND” folder. * Only one file can be imported at a time in each import operation. Do not drag and drop more than one file at a time. fig.06-133d When y[...]

180 With Macintosh 5. Import the SMF. 1) Double-click the “BOSS_BR-900” icon. 2) Drag the imported SMF to the “SMF” folder in the “ROLAND” folder. fig.03-435d When you have finished importing the SMF, the Idling screen returns to the display. 6. Quit the connection to the computer. 1) Drag the “BOSS_BR-900” icon into the trash. 7. P[...]

181 With Macintosh Section 7 Loading Drum Sounds from WAV/AIFF Files (Tone Load) You can import WAV and AIFF files on your computer and load these as drum sounds (TONE LOAD). ● The Rhythm and Tone Load functions cannot be used when tracks are bounced directly to a CD (p. 59). ● Wave data in the following formats can be imported. You cannot impo[...]

182 With Macintosh 7. Press BR-900CD’s [EXIT] repeatedly to return to the Play screen. * If you press [EXIT] without quitting the connection to the computer, the following screens appear. In this case, pressing [ENTER] and then [EXIT] returns the Play screen to the display. fig.06-106ad At this point, you can safely disconnect the USB cable from [...]

183 With Macintosh Section 7 Using the BR-864 / BR-532’s Data You can use the BR-900CD to play BR-864 / BR-532 data. * First be sure to back up the BR-864 / BR-532’s “ROLAND” folder to the computer. 1. Initializing the memory card on the BR-900CD (p. 196). 2. Connect your computer and the BR-900CD with a USB cable. 3. Confirm that the recor[...]

184 MEMO[...]

185 Section 8 Other Convenient Functions[...]

186 Adjusting the Display Contrast Depending on where the BR-900CD is situated, the display contents may be difficult to read. If this is the case, perform the procedure given below to adjust the contrast (1 to 21). fig.00-309 1. Press [UTILITY]. 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “SYS,” and press [ENTER]. fig.00-310d 3. Press CURSOR[...]

187 Section 8 Using a Foot Switch or Expression Pedal You can connect an optional foot switch (such as the BOSS FS-5U or Roland DP-2) or expression pedal (such as the Roland EV-5 or BOSS FV-300L) to the FOOT SW/EXP PEDAL jack on the rear panel, allowing you to use your foot to control a number of functions. fig.05-101 * Use only the specified expre[...]

188 Tuning an Instrument (Tuner) The BR-900CD has a built-in “chromatic tuner function” that allows you to tune your instrument quickly. The built-in tuner supports both guitar and bass guitar. As an example here, we will explain how to use the tuner to tune your guitar. * It is not possible to play back or record while using the tuner. Check t[...]

189 Tuning an Instrument (Tuner) Section 8 Tuning 1. Play a note using the string you are tuning. The screen will indicate the note name that is closest to the pitch of the string you played. * Cleanly play a single note only on the string you wish to tune. 2. Continue tuning until the pitch name of the string you are tuning appears in the display.[...]

190 Mixing the Output from an External MIDI Device with the Output from Your BR-900CD ( Audio Sub Mix) The Audio Sub Mix function allows you to mix the signal input from LINE IN with the signal output to LINE OUT. When performing synchronized playback using the BR- 900CD and an external MIDI device, you can use the Audio Sub Mix function to mix the[...]

191 Section 8 Using Condenser Microphones ( Phantom Power) Most condenser microphones need a supply of power known as phantom power in order to operate. Accordingly, the BR-900CD can supply phantom power at +48 V to condenser microphones connected to any of the XLR-type connectors for MIC 1 and MIC 2. 1. Before proceeding, turn INPUT SENS GUITAR/BA[...]

192 Copying Difficult Songs (Phrase Trainer) Your BR-900CD features a built-in “Phrase Trainer.” The Phrase Trainer records from the device connected to the input jacks (e.g., CD players or MD player) and then allows you to play back a part of that recording repeatedly to allow you to practice that portion again and again. You can also slow dow[...]

193 Copying Difficult Songs (Phrase Trainer) Section 8 3. To emphasize the bass sound, press CURSOR [ ] [] to select “Low Boost,” and turn the TIME/VALUE dial and adjust the value so that the bass sound is more easily heard. fig.05-303d 4. Press CURSOR [ ] to select “C.Adjust,” and turn the TIME/VALUE dial and adjust the value of the sound [...]

194 Initializing the BR-900CD’s Settings Initializing All the BR-900CD’s Settings The following settings are initialized together at one time. • System Settings • Effects (User Patches/Song Patches) • Rhythm (Arrangements/Patterns/Drum Kits) 1. Press [UTILITY]. 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “INI,” and press [ENTER]. fi[...]

195 Initializing the BR-900CD’s Settings Section 8 Initializing the Effect Settings Follow the procedure below to initialize the user effect patches or song effect patches. 1. Press [UTILITY]. 2. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “INI,” and press [ENTER]. fig.05-605d 3. Press CURSOR [ ] [ ] to move the cursor to “U EFX” (user pat[...]

196 Initializing the BR-900CD’s Settings Initializing the Memory Card Be aware that when initialized, any existing data on the card will be erased. * If you initialize the memory card supplied with the BR- 900CD, the demo songs on the card will be lost. Before you insert or remove a memory card, always turn off the BR-900CD first. If a memory car[...]

197 Section 8 Conserving Battery Power ( Power Save) Your BR-900CD is equipped with a power save function that limits the current dissipation during use. When the power save function is activated, if no button, or TIME/VALUE dial on the BR-900CD is used for a certain amount of time, the BR-900CD will enter the standby state and turn off the display[...]

198 Utility Parameter List Utilities include the following: • “System parameters” for setting functions affecting the entire BR-900CD • “Sync parameters” for setting synchronized performance functions • “Scrub parameters” for setting scrub functions About the System Parameters This section describes the System parameters. 1. Press[...]

199 Utility Parameter List Section 8 MTC Type Valid Settings: 30, 29N, 29D, 25, 24 (Initial value: 30) This sets the type of MTC output from the MIDI OUT connector. 30: 30 frames per second non-drop format. This is used by audio devices such as analog tape recorders, and for NTSC format black and white video (used in Japan and the U.S.). 29N: 29.97[...]

200 MEMO[...]

201 Section 9 Appendices[...]

202 Effect Patch List ■ GTR (GUIT AR/BASS) No. Patch Name Algorithm 01 JC Clean COSM GTR AMP 02 HiGainLd COSM GTR AMP 03 Over Drv COSM GTR AMP 04 Phased COSM GTR AMP 05 Crunch COSM GTR AMP 06 MS Strgt COSM GTR AMP 07 St WACK COSM GTR AMP 08 Ambient COSM GTR AMP 09 Voxy! COSM GTR AMP 10 St Metal COSM GTR AMP 11 TREM'TWN COSM GTR AMP 12 StdAmp[...]

203 Effect Patch List Section 9 ■ MIC No. Patch Name Algorithm 01 Vo Comp1 COSM COMP VCL 02 Vo Comp2 COSM COMP VCL 03 Kick Cmp COSM COMP VCL 04 SnareCmp COSM COMP VCL 05 BrassCmp COSM COMP VCL 06 VocalFx1 VOCAL MULTI 07 VocalFx2 VOCAL MULTI 08 VocalFx3 VOCAL MULTI 09 VocalFx4 VOCAL MULTI 10 NARRATOR VOCAL MULTI 11 VOX DOUB VOCAL MULTI 12 VOX DETN[...]

204 Effect Patch List ■ SML (SIMUL) No. Patch Name Algorithm 01 EQ + JC VO+GT AMP 02 DELAY+JC VO+GT AMP 03 CMP+TWIN VO+GT AMP 04 EQ+twin VO+GT AMP 05 CMP+SMAL VO+GT AMP 06 EQ+CRNCH VO+GT AMP 07 EQ+MATCH VO+GT AMP 08 DL+match VO+GT AMP 09 EQ+VO VO+GT AMP 10 COMP+vo VO+GT AMP 11 CMP+BLUS VO+GT AMP 12 CMP+BG VO+GT AMP 13 DELAY+bg VO+GT AMP 14 DL+MS([...]

205 Section 9 Mastering Tool Kit Patch List ■ MTK (MASTERING TOOL KIT) No. Patch Name 01 Mix Down 02 PreMastr 03 Live Mix 04 Pop Mix 05 DanceMix 06 JinglMix 07 HardComp 08 SoftComp 09 CleanCmp 10 DanceCmp 11 OrchComp 12 VocalCmp 13 Acoustic 14 RockBand 15 Orchestr 16 LowBoost 17 Brighten 18 DJsVoice 19 PhoneVox Pitch Correction Patch List ■ PCR[...]

206 Arrangement / Pattern List Preset Arrangement List Each of the preset Arrangement (except Metro4/4) is set so that a three-measure BREAK, followed by V1 (verse) comes after the E (ending). No. Arrangement Name Initial Tempo Beat Starting measure BREAK V1 Drum Kit IN V1 F1 V2 F2 V2 END P01 ROCK1 130 4/4 1 2 4 6 8 10 12 16 19 ROOM P02 ROCK2 130 4[...]

207 Arrangement / Pattern List Section 9 Preset Pattern List Pattern Name (Abbreviation shown in display) Initial Tempo Beat Measure IN V1 F1 V2 F2 E ROCK1 130 4/4 1 2 2 2 2 4 ROCK2 130 4/4 2 2 2 2 2 4 ROCK3 118 4/4 2 2 1 2 1 2 ROCK4 118 4/4 4 2 1 2 1 4 ROCK5 104 4/4 4 2 1 2 1 2 ROCK6 86 4/4 1 4 1 4 1 2 Hard Rock 1(HdRc1) 130 4/4 4 2 1 2 1 3 Hard R[...]

208 Parameter List (*1) If you want to save the settings as the currently selected song data, hold down [STOP] and press [REC]. (*2) Stored in the BR-900CD. (*3) Not Stored. Mixer Parameter (*1) Parameter Name Display Initial Value Valid Settings Input Select - GUITAR/BASS GUITAR/BASS, MIC, LINE, SIMUL (*3) Recording Mode REC MODE INPUT INPUT, BOUN[...]

209 Parameter List Section 9 Recorder Parameter (*1) Parameter Name Display Initial Value Valid Settings Recording Track - - Track 1–6, Track 1/2–7/8 V-Track V-TRACK 1 1–8 Auto Punch On/Off - OFF OFF, ON Auto Punch In/Out - - Any time Locator - - Any time Repeat - - Any time * The settable range for Auto Punch In/Out, Locator and Repeat will [...]

210 Parameter List CD Parameter Parameter Name Display Initial Value Valid Settings Pre Gap Pre Gap 2.0 sec 0.0–3.4 sec (*3) Scrub Parameter (*3) Parameter Name Display Initial Value Valid Settings Scrub From/To Mode From/To FROM FROM, TO Preview Switch Preview SW OFF OFF, ON Rhythm Parameter (*1) Parameter Name Display Initial Value Valid Settin[...]

211 Section 9 Troubleshooting If the BR-900CD does not function as you expect, please check the following points before assuming that a malfunction has occurred. If this does not resolve the problem, contact a nearby Roland service center or your dealer. Problems with the Sound No sound ❍ Is the power of the BR-900CD and of the connected equipmen[...]

212 Troubleshooting Problems with the Memory Card “Unsupported Card!” is displayed ❍ Do you have a compatible (CompactFlash) memory card inserted in the BR-900CD? ❍ Is the memory card fully and securely inserted? Memory card data was damaged If memory card data has been damaged, the following causes are possible. Please initialize the card [...]

213 Section 9 Error Messages If you attempt an incorrect operation or if an operation could not be executed, the display will indicate an error message. Refer to this list and take the appropriate action. Battery Low! Cause: The batteries are depleted (6 x AA dry-cell batteries). Solution: Replace the batteries as soon as possible ( p. 23). Blank D[...]

214 Error Messages Disc Not Ready! Cause: There is no CD-R/RW disc in the drive. Solution: Place a CD-R/RW disc in the drive. Drive Busy! Cause: If this message appears after you have been using the memory card with the BR-900CD, the data on the card has become fragmented, causing delays in reading and writing data. Or, you could be using memory ca[...]

215 Error Messages Section 9 Not Available in Mastering Mode! Cause: You cannot carry out this operation with “MASTERING” selected as the recording mode. Solution: First press the [REC MODE] button to switch the recording mode to “INPUT” or “BOUNCE,” then proceed with the operation. Not Blank Disc! Cause: The CD-R/RW disc already has da[...]

216 DIGITAL RECORDING STUDIO Date: Jan. 11, 2005 Model BR-900CD Version: 1.00 MIDI Implementation 1. TRANSMITTED DATA * This message is transmitted according to a SMF data regardless of the followings when the data is played. ■ Channel Voice Message ● Note On If the MIDI parameter “RhyMIDI ch” is set to “1–16,” note numbers/velocities[...]

217 MIDI Implementation Section 9 ■ System Exclusive Message Status Data Bytes Status F0H iiH,ddH,..., eeH F7H Byte Description F0H Status of Exclusive Message iiH ID Number 7EH Universal Non Realtime Message 7FH Universal Realtime Message ddH Data: 00H - 7FH (0-127) : : eeH Data F7H EOX (End of Exclusive Message) * The BR-900CD can transmit and [...]

218 MIDI Implementation ● LOCATE (MCP) ❍ Format 2 - LOCATE [TARGET] Status Data Bytes Status F0H 7FH, Dev, 06H, 44H, 06H, 01H, hrH, mnH, scH, frH, ffH F7H Byte Description F0H Status of Exclusive Message 7FH Universal System Exclusive Message Realtime Header Dev Device ID (7FH) 06H MMC Command Message 44H LOCATE(MCP) 06H Number of Bytes 01H “[...]

219 MIDI Implementation Chart Section 9 M I D I I m p l e m e n t a t i o n C h a r t Function... Basic Channel Mode Note Number : Velocity After Touch Pitch Bend Control Change Prog Change System Exclusive System Common System Real Time Aux Message Notes Transmitted Recognized Remarks Default Changed Default Messages Altered True Voice Note ON Not[...]

220 Specifications BR-900CD: Digital Recording Studio ● Tracks Track: 8 V-Track: 64 (8 V-Tracks per each Track) * Up to 2 tracks can be recorded simultaneously, and up to 8 tracks can be played back simultaneously. ● Useful Capacity CompactFlash: 32 M–1 G bytes ● Data Type HiFi (MT2) STANDARD (LV1) LONG (LV2) ● Signal Processing AD Conver[...]

221 Specifications Section 9 ● Power Supply DC 9 V; Supply AC Adaptor (PSC series), Dry battery x 6 ● Current Draw 900 mA (Average using AC adapter and CD-R/RW) 300 mA (When powered by batteries; CD-R/RW drive not used) * Expected battery life under continuous use: Alkaline: 4 hours These figures will vary depending on the actual conditions of [...]

222 Index Symbols + ...................................................................................... 69, 72, 75 Numerics 24 ...................................................................................... 159, 199 25 ...................................................................................... 159, 199 29D .....................[...]

223 Index Section 9 CHO/DLY ............................................................ 43–44, 108–109 CHORUS ..................................................................... 44, 108, 111 Chorus ................................................................................ 94, 108 Chromatic Tuner ........................................[...]

224 Index EQ ....................................................................................... 43, 110 Equalizer ....................................................................... 43, 96, 105 ERASE ....................................................... 124–125, 133, 138, 153 Erasing Arrangement ........................................[...]

225 Index Section 9 Initializing ................................................................................. 194 All ....................................................................................... 194 Effect setting ....................................................................... 195 Memory card ................................[...]

226 Index MCK ......................................................................................... 158 MEAS .......................................................................................... 21 Measure ............................................................................ 127, 130 MEMORY CARD .....................................[...]

227 Index Section 9 Pattern Number ........................................................................ 123 PCR ........................................................................................... 205 PEAK ........................................................................................ 105 Peak ...................................[...]

228 Index Rhy Send ................................................................................... 109 RhyMIDI ch ...................................................................... 157, 199 RHYTHM .............................................................................. 35, 87 Rhythm ....................................................[...]

229 Index Section 9 TONE ........................................................................................ 149 Tone .................................................................................... 94, 111 Tone Load ......................................................... 135, 149, 171, 181 TONELOAD Folder ...............................[...]

PAN EQ Low EQ High CHO/DLY Send REV Send PAN EQ Low EQ High PAN EQ Low EQ High PAN EQ Low EQ High PAN EQ Low EQ High PAN EQ Low EQ High TRACK 1 TRACK 2 TRACK 3 TRACK 4 TRACK 5 TRACK 6 TRACK 7/8 PAN EQ Low EQ High EFFECTS COMMENTS Track Sheet CHO/DLY Send REV Send CHO/DLY Send REV Send CHO/DLY Send REV Send CHO/DLY Send REV Send CHO/DLY Send REV Sen[...]

IMPORTANT: THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE. BLUE: BROWN: 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 BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is [...]

Owner’s Manual Owner’s Manual ********** 2SX Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the BOSS BR-900CD Digital Recording Studio. Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: • USING THE UNIT SAFELY (page 2–3) • IMPORTANT NOTES (page 4–5) These sections provide important information concerning the proper operati[...]