Roland Using the AX-Synth’s USB port, General considerations, Possible applications

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rAX-Synth Owner’s Manual

8. Using the AX-Synth’s USB port

The AX-Synth is equipped with a USB port for MIDI communication with a computer.

General considerations

Possible applications

If you connect the USB port located on the AX-Synth’s rear panel to a USB port of your computer, you’ll be able to do the following things.

Take advantage of the “AX-Synth Editor” and librar- ian software to edit the internal sounds to your lik- ing. This software is available for the Mac and PC platforms and can be downloaded from Roland’s website: http://www.Roland.com.

Settings you change in this way can be stored inside the AX-Synth and used even when it is not con- nected to a computer.

By transferring MIDI data between the AX-Synth and your sequencer software, you’ll be able to enjoy a wide range of possibilities for music production and editing.

Connection

Caution

To avoid the risk of malfunction and/or speaker dam- age, always make sure to turn the volume all the way down and turn off the power on all equipment before you make any connections.

Only MIDI data can be transmitted and received via USB.

A USB cable is not included. If you need to obtain one, ask the dealer where you purchased the AX-Synth.

Switch on the AX-Synth before you start up the MIDI application on your computer. Don’t turn the AX-Synth’s power on/off while your MIDI application is running.

Connect the AX-Synth to your computer as shown below.

Computer

To a USB port

USB cable

MIDI USB port

Refer to the Roland website for system requirements: http://www.Roland.com/

Note: Do not connect two or more AX-Synth units to one computer via USB. The system will not operate correctly with such connections.

If connection to your computer is unsuccessful…

Normally, you don’t need to install a driver in order to connect the AX-Synth to your computer. However, if a problem occurs, or if the performance is poor, using the Roland original driver may solve the prob- lem.

For details on downloading and installing the Roland original driver, refer to the Roland website: http://www.roland.com/

If you are using Windows XP/Windows Vista, you must log onto Windows as one of the following users in order to complete the USB connection correctly.

A user name belonging to the Administrators group, such as Administrator

A user name whose account type is a computer administrator

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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 Strap holder precaution Battery handlingCopyright Contents Cable-free live operation possible High-quality Internal sound sourceIn-depth programming with the ‘AX-Synth editor’ Front panel Panel descriptionsBottom panel ‘Neck’ control sectionConnection panel rear Making connections Connecting the AC adaptorInserting or replacing batteries Battery charge indication Connecting the AX-SynthControlling the AX-Synth from an external Midi device Controlling a MIDI-compatible sound sourceSome notes on using headphones 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 memoriesMaster Tune Using the AX-Synth’s performance functionsTranspose 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 AftertouchPortamento Selecting the Portamento modeAssigning a different function to the D Beam controller Hold button Sustaining notesFoot 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 sequen- tially Transmitting Program Change numbersEntering Program Change numbers directly Archiving the AX-Synth’s settings using a Midi sequencer Using the Bulk Dump functionSending 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.