Roland Comprehensive Guide to AX Synth and MIDI Control
Page 27

rAX-Synth Owner’s Manual

7. Using the AX-Synth as MIDI controller

The AX-Synth can transmit and receive performance data when connected to an external MIDI device, which enables the two devices to control each other’s performance. For example, one device can play or switch sounds on the other device. MIDI stands for “Musical Instrument Digital Interface.” It is a universal standard for exchanging musical performance data among electronic musical instruments and computers.

Please see page 15 for how to connect the AX-Synth to your MIDI rig.

MIDI messages that can be trans- mitted/received

The most important MIDI messages the AX-Synth can transmit and receive are:

Message

Remarks

Note On/Offa

 

Velocity

Transmission: striking force of the AX-Synth’s

 

keys

 

 

Aftertouch

Transmission: channel aftertouch via

 

[AFTER¥TOUCH] knob (not from the key-

 

board). Reception: polyphonic & channel

 

aftertouch.

 

 

Program Change

Transmission also without changing sounds

 

on the AX-Synth

 

 

Bank Select

Transmission: cannot be specified on the

 

AX-Synthb.

Pitch Bend

Transmission: TOUCH CONTROLLER and/or

 

D Beam

 

 

Modulation

CC01, transmission: MODULATION BAR

 

 

Hold/Sustain

CC64, [HOLD] button & optional footswitch

 

connected to [FOOT¥PEDAL]

 

 

CC01~31, CC33~95

Transmission: the control change number

 

assigned to the D BEAM [ASSIGNABLE] but-

 

ton.

 

 

a.The AX-Synth has no Local switch. To control a MIDI device without hearing its internal sound source, set the [VOLUME] control to the mini-

mum value, disconnect the AX-Synth’s OUTPUT sockets or turn down the volume on your amplifier, mixing console, etc.

b.The AX-Synth does not allow you to enter Bank Select messages (CC00 and CC32) for the Program Change numbers you transmit using the PGM CHANGE functionality. However, when you select an internal sound, its Bank Select address (CC00 and CC32, see also page 37) will be transmit- ted along with its program Change number.

Please see the “MIDI implementation chart” on p. 40 for a complete overview of the supported MIDI messages.

About the AX-Synth’s receive channel

The AX-Synth always receives MIDI messages via its MIDI IN socket and USB port.

The receive channel (RX) always corresponds to the transmit channel you select (see the right column). As long as you don’t need to transmit MIDI messages, you can therefore “set” the receive channel by selecting the corresponding transmit channel.

Activating the AX-Synth’s MIDI transmission

If you want the AX-Synth to transmit MIDI messages, proceed as follows:

(1)Connect the AX-Synth’s MIDI OUT socket to the MIDI IN socket of the device you wish to control.

(2)Switch on the [TX¥ON] button (it must light).

Note: Activating this button does not bypass the AX-Synth’s internal sound source.

Setting the MIDI transmit channel

The transmit (“TX”) channel can be set to match the reception channel of the instrument you want to con- trol.

MIDI provides sixteen channels, numbered 1~16. Even if two MIDI devices are connected, you won’t be able to select or play sounds on the other device unless both devices are set to the same MIDI channel.

(1)Press and hold the [SHIFT] button.

(2)Keep holding the [SHIFT] button and press the

[TX¥ON] button.

The [TX¥ON] button flashes.

(3)Keep holding the [SHIFT] button and press a key in the TX MIDI CHANNELS section (left side of the keyboard) to select the desired transmit channel.

The display now shows the number of the selected MIDI transmit channel and the [WRITE] button

flashes.

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Contents Page Declaration of Conformity Shoulder Synthesizer If you do not use the AX-Synth as a shoulder keyboard If used improperly, batteries may explode or leak Important notes Battery handling Strap holder precautionCopyright Contents High-quality Internal sound source Cable-free live operation possibleIn-depth programming with the ‘AX-Synth editor’ Front panel Panel descriptionsBottom panel ‘Neck’ control sectionConnection panel rear Connecting the AC adaptor Making connectionsInserting or replacing batteries Battery charge indication Connecting the AX-SynthControlling the AX-Synth from an external Midi device Controlling a MIDI-compatible sound sourceUsing headphones Some notes on using headphonesWorking with a computer or sequencer Turning the power off Powering upNumeric selection of a ‘regular’ Tone Playing the AX-SynthSelecting ‘regular’ Tones Selecting ‘regular’ Tones sequentiallyAssigning a Tone to a Favorite memory Grouping frequently-used Tones FavoriteSelecting ‘SuperNATURAL’ Tones Selecting ‘SPECIAL’ TonesBank Recalling Favorite memoriesUsing the AX-Synth’s performance functions Master TuneTranspose Octave Hold mode Using the Modulation BarUsing the Touch Controller Octave Switch modeUsable range of the D Beam controller Using the D Beam controllerSelecting the Bender Mode AftertouchSelecting the Portamento mode PortamentoAssigning a different function to the D Beam controller Sustaining notes Hold buttonFoot Pedal socket Editing the volume and Reverb Send levels Editing Tone settingsAbout the AX-Synth’s receive channel Using the AX-Synth as Midi controllerSetting the Midi transmit channel Midi messages that can be trans- mitted/receivedTransmitting Program Change numbers Transmitting Program Change numbers sequen- tiallyEntering Program Change numbers directly Using the Bulk Dump function Archiving the AX-Synth’s settings using a Midi sequencerSending your settings back to the AX-Synth Using the AX-Synth as Midi controller Connection Using the AX-Synth’s USB portGeneral considerations Possible applicationsMaking the settings for the USB driver Operations on the AX-Synth How to use V-LINKAbout V-LINK Activating V-LINKSleep mode setting Battery-related functionsLoading the factory settings Checking the remaining battery chargeAppendix TroubleshootingControl Change list Regular Tones Tone listSA EP Roland AX-Synth Shoulder Synthesizer SpecificationsShoulder Synthesizer Date March Model AX-Synth Version Midi implementation chartIndication IndexInformation For China 602.00.0354.02

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.
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