Shifting the keyboard pitch in octave steps

Using the AX-Synth’s performance functions

Shifting the keyboard pitch in octave steps

You can shift the pitch of the currently selected Tone upward or downward in steps of an octave, over a max- imum of three octaves up or down.

Octave Switch mode

This mode means that the octave transposition you set is used until you change this setting again. (Choose this setting to play a bass part, for instance.)

(1)Check whether the OCTAVE/VARIATION [+]/[–] but- tons are assigned to the “OCS” function.

(a)Hold down the [SHIFT] button and press OCTAVE/ VARIATION [+] or [–].

(1)Check whether the OCTAVE/VARIATION [+]/[–] but- tons are assigned to the “OCH” function.

(a)Hold down the [SHIFT] button and press OCTAVE/ VARIATION [+] or [–].

If the display reads “OCH”, there is nothing you need to do, so continue with step (2) below. If the display reads “OCS” or “Var”, however…

(b)Keep holding [SHIFT] and press OCTAVE/VARIATION [+] or [–] to select “OCH”.

You only need to do this once: the AX-Synth will remember this setting until you change it again. The [WRITE] button now flashes.

(c)Press the [WRITE] button (it goes dark).

(d)Release the [SHIFT] button.

(2)Press the OCTAVE/VARIATION [+] button to tempo-

rarily transpose the keyboard’s pitch one octave up (”1”). Press [–] to temporarily transpose the key- board’s pitch one octave down (“–1”).

(3)To return to standard pitch (“0”), release the OCTAVE/VARIATION [+] or [–] button.

If the display reads “OCS”, there is nothing you need to do, so continue with step (2) below. If the display reads “OCH” or “Var”, however…

(b)Keep holding [SHIFT] and press OCTAVE/VARIATION [+] or [–] to select “OCS”.

You only need to do this once: the AX-Synth will remember this setting until you change it again. The [WRITE] button now flashes.

(c)Press the [WRITE] button (it goes dark).

(d)Release the [SHIFT] button.

(2)Press the OCTAVE/VARIATION [+] button to select a higher octave (“1”~“3”), or use [–] to select a lower octave (“–1”~“–3”).

The button you pressed lights if the octave interval is different from “0”. The selected value briefly flashes in the display and the OCTAVE/VARIATION button you pressed lights.

(3)To return to standard pitch (“0”), press OCTAVE/ VARIATION [+] and [–] simultaneously.

The OCTAVE/VARIATION [+] and [–] go dark to indicate that the keyboard’s octave has returned to normal pitch.

Octave Hold mode

This mode means that the keyboard’s pitch is only shifted one octave up or down while you press the OCTAVE/VARIATION [+] or [–] button. When you release the button, the keyboard’s pitch returns to normal. This can be used to quickly play a few notes in a higher or lower octave before returning to the keyboard’s normal pitch.

Using the Modulation Bar

Press the Modulation Bar to generate MIDI Modulation messages (CC01).

Modulation bar

What happens now depends on the Modulation assign- ment of the Tone you are using. (This needs to be speci- fied using the “AX-Synth Editor” software.)

In most cases, pressing this bar generates a vibrato effect. If you select a SuperNATURAL Tone (VIOLIN~ TROMBONE), however, it acts as “Dynamics” function.

Using the Touch Controller

The AX-Synth also provides a TOUCH CONTROLLER rib- bon that allows you to change the sound by sliding a finger towards the left or right.

TOUCH CONTROLLER ribbon

What happens now depends on the assignment for the Tone you are using. (This needs to be specified using the “AX-Synth Editor” software.)

AX-Synth specifications

The Roland AX-Synth is a groundbreaking keytar that merges the classic charm of traditional synthesizers with cutting-edge technology, making it an ideal instrument for modern musicians and performers. Best known for its sleek, ergonomic design and wide-ranging sound capabilities, the AX-Synth caters particularly to keyboardists who want to take their performance to new heights.

One of the standout features of the AX-Synth is its portability. Weighing in at just under 4 kg, the AX-Synth is lightweight and easy to handle, allowing performers to move freely on stage while delivering captivating performances. The AX-Synth’s built-in strap system ensures that the instrument stays securely in place during active performances, allowing musicians to focus on their creative expressions without worrying about stability.

The synthesizer boasts a rich sound engine derived from Roland’s renowned SuperNATURAL technology. This advanced sound engine offers a remarkable level of expressiveness, with a wide range of sounds—from traditional analog synths to complex acoustic instruments. Additionally, the AX-Synth enables real-time sound manipulation thanks to its intuitive controls, including sliders and knobs for adjusting parameters such as filter, modulation, and effects.

One of the most appealing characteristics of the AX-Synth is its deep connectivity. It features MIDI I/O, allowing it to communicate with other devices and DAWs seamlessly. Moreover, it can operate as a USB MIDI controller, opening the door to a vast array of digital audio workstations and software instruments.

Another noteworthy aspect of the AX-Synth is its onboard effects. Musicians can easily add depth and texture to their performances with effects such as reverb, chorus, and delay. This versatility provides users with endless creative possibilities, allowing them to craft unique soundscapes on the fly.

The AX-Synth also includes a variety of performance features like arpeggiators and customizable patches, allowing musicians to explore diverse musical ideas during live shows. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate through the numerous presets and settings, ensuring that artists spend less time setting up and more time performing.

Overall, the Roland AX-Synth is not just a keytar; it's a powerful tool for musical expression, blending modern technology with the expressive nature of synthesizers. Whether on stage or in the studio, the AX-Synth opens new avenues for musicians, making it an essential instrument for those looking to make their mark in contemporary music.