Roland VGA-7 manual

Owner’s Manual Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the Roland VGA-7 V-Guitar Amplifier. Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” (page 2) “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (page 3–4) “IMPORTANT NOTES” (page 8–9) These sections provide important information concerning the prop[...]

2 IMPORTANT SAFTY INSTRUCTIONS CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN ATTENTION : RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR CAUTION : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilatera[...]

3 USING THE UNIT SAFELY 001 • Before using this unit, make sure to read the instructions below, and the Owner’s Manual. .......................................................................................................... 002a • Do not open or perform any internal modifica- tions on the unit. .............................................[...]

4 016 • Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the "Information" page. .......................................................................................................... 101a • The unit should be located so tha[...]

5 Contents IMPORTANT SAFTY INSTRUCTIONS ...... 2 USING THE UNIT SAFELY ........................ 3 Main Features ............................................ 6 IMPORTANT NOTES .................................. 8 Attaching and Removing the Casters ....................9 Basic Opration ......................................... 10 Preparations for usin[...]

6 Main Features The VGA-7, a V-guitar amplifier with a GK input, affords a new dimension in sound-creation potential, through its combination of COSM guitars, COSM amplifiers, and effects. Additionally, if offers a memory storage feature, and stereo output (65 + 65 W). The two-way speaker system provides 12-inch speakers and horn tweeters in a bass[...]

7 Main Features Broad Expandability ● Stereo external input jacks are provided, allowing you to mix the sound of the VGA-7 with an external sound source, such as a guitar synthesizer. Stereo line out jacks convenient for recording are also provided. ● The foot control jack lets you use your feet to select patches or turn effects on/off. You can[...]

8 IMPORTANT NOTES 291b In addition to the items listed under “ IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ” and “ USING THE UNIT SAFELY ” on pages 2 and 3 – 4, please read and observe the following: Power Supply 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 l[...]

9 IMPORTANT NOTES 553 • Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unit ’ s buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks and connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions. 554 • Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display. 556 • When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the connector itself — ne[...]

10 Basic Opration * For details on each function, refer to p. 14 and following. fig.01-1 Power Switch T urns the power on/off. Manual Button By pressing the Manual button, you can play using the sound of the current knob settings, as on a conventional guitar amplifier . GK IN Use the special cable to connect the GK-2A-compatible guitar (or the guit[...]

11 Basic Opration VARIATION Function In addition to the settings, there are several other choices of COSM guitar type and tuning, COSM amplifier and speaker, and EFFECTS delay, chorus and reverb. * is printed top or under buttons (that the arrow in the picture below should indicate) for which variation settings (types) are provided. fig.01-2 The pl[...]

12 Basic Opration fig.01-3 Preparations for using the VGA-7 Attaching the GK-2A to your guitar First, attach the GK-2A divided pickup (sold separately) to your guitar. To learn how, refer to the owner ’ s manual for the GK-2A. The GK-2A cannot be used with the following types of guitar. (When attached to one of these guitars, the GK-2A will not f[...]

13 Making Connections You will need a guitar on which the GK-2A has been installed, or a GK compatible guitar. The following equipment will add additional functionality to your VGA-7 system. • MIDI Foot Controller (sold separately: Roland FC-200) • Expression Pedal (sold separately: Roland EV-5, BOSS FV-300L) • Foot Switch (sold separately: B[...]

14 Make settings for the divided pickup The sound quality of the VGA-7 is dramatically affected by how the divided pickup is installed. In order to minimize tonal irregularity due to variations in installation, you must input the manner in which the divided pickup is installed (divided pickup settings). When playing the VGA-7, divided pickup settin[...]

15 Make settings for the divided pickup Specify the pickup type (1 GK TYPE) * With the factory settings, this is set to “1 GK-2A.” 1. Press [PARAMETER ▼ / ▲ ] until “ 1 ” is shown (blink) at the left side of the display. This selects “ 1 GK TYPE. ” fig.04-2 2. Press [SELECT/VALUE ▼ / ▲ ] to select the desired pickup type. The co[...]

16 Make settings for the divided pickup Specify the scale length (3 SCALE) * With the factory settings, this is set to “ .” When playing the VGA-7, the scale length setting is extremely important to the final sound quality. You must be sure to set this parameter correctly. 1. Press [PARAMETER ▼ / ▲ ] until “ 3 ” is shown (blink) at the [...]

17 Make settings for the divided pickup 3. Use [SELECT/VALUE ▼ / ▲ ] to specify the distance for the selected string number. * The example display shows that the 6th string is at a distance of 10 mm. fig.08 4. Repeat steps 2 – 3 for each of the remaining strings. Adjusting the Pickup Sensitivity for Each String (5 SENS) Adjust the pickup sens[...]

18 Make settings for the divided pickup 3. Press [SELECT/VALUE ▼ / ▲ ] to adjust the sensitivity. Play the guitar, using what is likely to be the most forceful playing that you will use in actual performance. At the same time, adjust the value until the green indicator in the center is lighted. Then, adjust further until you get it to the highe[...]

19 Make settings for the divided pickup Specify the function of the S1/S2 switch (7 S1/S2) * With the factory settings, this is set to “1 PICKUP SEL.” 1. Press [PARAMETER ▼ / ▲ ] until “ 7 ” is shown (blink) at the left of the display. This selects “ 7 S1/S2. ” fig.13 2. Use [SELECT/VALUE ▼ / ▲ ] to specify the function of the S[...]

20 TUNER Here ’ s how to use the VGA-7 ’ s tuner function to tune your guitar. In order to use the tuner, you must first make tuner settings. Setting the Tuner Press [SYSTEM], getting the indicator to light, and then make the following settings. fig.15 When you have finished making settings, press [SYSTEM] once again, extinguishing its indicato[...]

21 TUNER Tuning your guitar * While using the tuner, sound will not be output from the line out jacks. 1. Press [TUNER], getting the indicator to light. This turns on the Tuner function. 2. Play a single unfretted note on the string you wish to tune. The note name closest to the string you played will appear in the display. For a guitar connected t[...]

22 About Patch When you are performing on your guitar, you will need a variety of sounds, depending on the situation. On the VGA-7, the settings of the panel buttons and knobs used to create the sound can be remembered as a set, which is called a Patch . You can create several patches, and switch between patches to use the desired tonal character w[...]

23 About Patch Changing Patch Settings Use the buttons and knobs to modify the settings of the selected patch. This operation is called “ Editing. ” ● Immediately after changing patches, the settings stored in the patch will not match the positions of the knobs. When you turn the knob, the setting value stored in the patch will be shown in th[...]

24 About Patch Saving your modifications in a patch (Write) If you wish to save the modifications you have made, you must store them in a user patch. This operation is called “ Write. ” All settings except for the MASTER knob can be saved. * If you used the foot switch to turn the effect on/off (p. 36), that setting will also be remembered. 1. [...]

25 Panel Descriptions Front Panel In some cases, odd sounds may occur when operating the button or a knob, but this does not indicate a malfunction. COSM Guitar Section (COSM GUITAR) This analyzes the principal components of an electric guitar, and precisely simulates the function of each of the components. The number and type of pickups, the numbe[...]

26 Panel Descriptions ACOUSTIC: 1 STANDARD The acoustic guitar with a flat top and back 2 ROUND The flat top acoustic guitar with a round back made of resin 3 METAL A metal body guitar with one cone resonator, suitable for bottle-neck (slide) playing techniques. 4 NYLON STR Guitars using nylon or gut strings 5 BANJO A plucked string instrument with[...]

27 Panel Descriptions NASHVILLE: 1 TYPE 1 Strings 6 – 3 will be one octave higher. Strings 2 and 1 will be the original pitch. 2 TYPE 2 Strings 6 – 4 will be one octave higher. Strings 3 – 1 will be the original pitch. USER: This is a user-specified tuning. Relative to the conventional tuning for each string (starting from the 6th string, E/A[...]

28 Panel Descriptions COSM Amplifier Section (COSM AMPLIFIER) By selecting the amp type, using the equalizer to adjust the tone, and specifying the type of cabinet (including the number and type of speakers), you can create the basic sound of the guitar amplifier. fig.101 6 Input Jacks (INPUT HIGH/LOW) Connect a conventional guitar (a guitar withou[...]

29 Panel Descriptions 3 MODERN 1 The sound of a tube amp typical of the late ‘ 70s to 80s, characterized by a distinctive mid-range. 4 MODERN 2 A tube amp sound with versatile distortion, usable in a wide range of styles. 5 METAL 1 The sound of a vacuum tube amp stack for heavy metal. 6 METAL2 A high gain and powerful metal sound. SPECIAL: 1 LAYE[...]

30 Panel Descriptions ORIGINAL: The speaker best matched for the selected amp type (p. 28). 1-12 ” OPEN: An open-back cabinet with one 12-inch speaker. 2-12 ” OPEN: An open-back cabinet with two 12-inch speakers. 4-10 ” OPEN: An open-backed cabinet with four 10-inch speakers. ◆ With 1-12 ” OPEN, 2-12 ” OPEN, and 4-10 ” OPEN, you can s[...]

31 Panel Descriptions ● WAH This effect creates a unique tone by changing the frequency response of a filter. By connecting a separately available expression pedal (e.g., Roland EV-5 or BOSS FV-300L) you can control the wah effect in real time. * While using WAH, the expression pedal cannot be used to control the volume. fig.30 Pedal Knob [PEDAL][...]

32 Panel Descriptions ● PHASER By adding varied-phase portions to the direct sound, the phaser effect gives a whooshing, swirling character to the sound. fig.34 Rate Knob [RATE] This sets the rate of the flanging effect. Range: 0 – 99 Intensity Knob [INTENSITY] Adjust the depth of the effect. Range: 0 – 99 ● FLANGER The flanging effect give[...]

33 Panel Descriptions ■ Recording your playing By selecting HOLD as the delay type, you can record your playing. With a momentary-type foot switch (BOSS FS-5U: sold separately) connected, you can use your foot to control the recording operations. Connect the foot switch to the DELAY jack on the rear panel. fig.85 * If you connect only one foot sw[...]

34 Panel Descriptions Master Section fig.103 17 Tuner Indicator This displays the pitch during tuning, and the sensitivity for GK settings. 18 Display This displays the patch number or variation number. 19 Tuner Button [TUNER] Press this to use the tuner. 20 Variation/Edit Button [VARIATION/EDIT] Use this to set or change the Variation setting. To [...]

35 Panel Descriptions 29 Master Knob [MASTER] Adjust the speaker volume or headphone volume of the VGA-7. * The setting of the master knob is not memorized. 30 Headphones Jack (PHONES) Headphones are plugged in here. * When headphones are connected, sound will not be output from the speaker of the VGA-7. * Before connecting or disconnecting headpho[...]

36 Panel Descriptions ■ Turning the Effects On and Off With the FS-5L connected, you can check the indicator on the FS-5L to see whether the effect is on or off. The indicator is lit when the effect is on; the light goes out when the effect is turned off. * The VGA-7’s panel controls cannot be used to turn the effects on and off while the FS-5L[...]

37 Panel Descriptions 35 MIDI MIDI IN Connector By connecting a separately available MIDI foot controller (e.g., Roland FC-200) you can use your feet to switch patches. This connector is also used to receive data from an external MIDI device. MIDI OUT Connector This connector is used to transmit VGA-7 data to an external MIDI device. * Depending on[...]

38 System setting Procedure fig.82 1. Press [SYSTEM], getting the indicator to light. 2. Press [PARAMETER ▼ / ▲ ] to select the parameter number. 3. Press [SELECT/VALUE ▼ / ▲ ] to input the value. 4. Once you ’ ve finished making settings, press [SYSTEM] again, extinguishing its indicator. The setting will be saved. A list of system param[...]

39 System setting Foot Switch (FOOT SW) Specify the operation of the foot switches connected to the EFX – REVERB jacks. * You cannot change the settings for each individual jack. Parameter Number: 4 TYPE Display Setting 1 EFFECTS (MOMENTARY): The effect on/off state specified by the patch will be reversed. If the effect is on, it will be switched[...]

40 System setting MIDI The VGA-7 uses the following MIDI messages. • Program Change messages transmit commands for switching Patches. •“ Control Change ” messages, which can be used to convey changes in various effects, control the volume, and switch effects on/off. •“ System Exclusive ” messages (carrying data specific to a particula[...]

41 System setting Receiving only one patch * You cannot operate this procedure in Manual mode. To receive data that was transmitted via Bulk Dump (p. 41) with the “ 3 PATCH (ONE) ” setting, use the following procedure. 1. Use [BANK ▼ / ▲ ], [NUMBER ▼ / ▲ ] ([PRESET/USER]) to select the user patch that you wish to receive. 2. Select the [...]

42 System setting 3. Press [WRITE] to send the data. The following display will appear while the data is being transmitted. fig.53 * When ALL/PATCH (ALL) is selected, it takes approximately 40 seconds to complete transmission of the data. 4. When the transmit data selection display reappears, press [SYSTEM] to end the procedure. Sending Only the Di[...]

43 Operating the VGA-7 with the FC-200 With the optional FC-200 MIDI Foot Controller, you can use pedal operations to control the VGA-7. Initializing the FC-200 from the VGA-7 Provide the FC-200 with the VGA-7 ’ s settings by sending the data from the VGA-7. At the same time that the FC-200 is initialized, the VGA-7 will also be set to settings s[...]

44 Operating the VGA-7 with the FC-200 Functions That Can Be Controlled with the FC-200 In Program Change Mode fig.95 Switching Between Preset Patches and User Patches * Distinctions between Preset and User Patches follow the VGA-7 settings. Switching Banks Each time the Bank (UP/DOWN) pedal is pressed, the bank is switched, and the Bank is indicat[...]

45 Operating the VGA-7 with the FC-200 Turning the Effects On and Off Each time one of the Number pedals 1 – 4 is pressed, the information controlled with the pedal is sent from the FC-200 as a Control Change message. These messages can be used to turn the EFX, DELAY, CHORUS, and REVERB effects on and off. Number Pedal 1: EFX (Controller Number 6[...]

46 Appendices If You Think There Might Be a Problem (Troubleshooting) This section explains some things that might go wrong when using the VGA-7, and what needs to be done to correct the problem.If you think there may be something wrong with your VGA-7, please check through the following first. If these suggestions don ’ t fix the problem, then g[...]

47 Appendices Patches aren ’ t switched when a Program Change is received from an external device. ● Are Program Change messages being transmitted on a channel other than the selected MIDI channel? → Send the Program Change messages on the same channel as the one set with MIDI Channel (p. 48). Data can ’ t be sent or received with Bulk Dump[...]

48 Appendices Changing the MIDI Settings When using MIDI to control the VGA-7, you can change the settings for the MIDI parameters as needed. 1. While holding down [SYSTEM], turn on the POWER switch. 2. Use [PARAMETER ▼ / ▲ ] to select MIDI parameters. 3. Press [SELECT/VALUE ▼ / ▲ ] to set the value. 4. Press either [TUNER], [VARIATION/EDIT[...]

49 Appendices Effect connection order fig.105 Block diagram fig.106 COSM GUITAR EFX COSM AMPLIFIER DELAY CHORUS REVERB COSM GUITAR EFX COSM AMPLIFIER DELAY CHORUS REVERB When EFX is set to WAH, SLOW GEAR or COMP When EFX is set to TREMOLO, PHASER or FLANGER INPUT GK IN INPUT GK IN DSP MASTER VOLUME AMP AMP LINE OUT SPEAKER PHONES EXT IN GK IN INPUT[...]

50 Appendices MIDI Implementation Chart 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 Note OFF Key's Ch's 0, 32 1 – 31 64 ?[...]

51 Appendices Specifications VGA-7: V-Guitar Amplifier ● Rated Power Output 130 W (65 W + 65 W) ● Patches 160 (Preset: 80 + User: 80) ● Nominal Input Level (1 kHz) INPUT HIGH: -10 dBu/470 k Ω INPUT LOW: 0 dBu/330 k Ω EXT IN: +4 dBu ● Nominal Output Level LINE OUT: +4 dBu * 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms ● Speakers (30 cm + Horn Tweeter) x 2 ● D[...]

52 Appendices ● Power Supply AC 117 V, 230 V or 240 V ● Power Consumption 160 W (117 V, 230 V, 240 V) ● Dimensions 770 (W) x 300 (D) x 640 (H) mm 30 - 3/8 (W) x 11-13/16 (D) x 25 - 1/4 (H) inches (Include casters) ● Weight 37.6 kg / 82 lbs 15 oz ● Accessories GK Connecting Cable: C-13A (5 m) Casters (x4) Owner ’ s Manual Preset Patch Li[...]

53 Index Numerics 12 STRING ...................................................................... 26 1-12 ” OPEN .................................................................... 30 2-12 ” OPEN .................................................................... 30 4-10 ” OPEN ..............................................................[...]

54 Index PRESENCE ..................................................................... 29 PRESET/USER ........................................................ 22, 34 R RATE ......................................................................... 31 – 32 REVERB .................................................................... 33, 36 RISE TIME[...]

For the USA FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipm[...]

Information When you need repair service, call your nearest Roland Service Center or authorized Roland distributor in your country as shown below. As of June 1, 2000 (Roland) ARGENTINA Instrumentos Musicales S.A. Florida 656 2nd Floor Office Number 206A Buenos Aires ARGENTINA, CP1005 TEL: (54-11) 4- 393-6057 BRAZIL Roland Brasil Ltda. R. Coronel Oc[...]