Roland AX-Synth owner manual Important notes

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Important notes

Important notes

In addition to the items listed under “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” on p. 4, please read and observe the following:

Power supply

The AX-Synth can be operated using 8 rechargeable AA-type Ni-MH batteries or the supplied adaptor. Be careful to insert the batteries the right way around. If you prefer to use the adaptor, be sure to use the enclosed Roland PSB-1U model.

Do not connect this unit to same electrical outlet that is being used by an electrical appliance that is controlled by an inverter (such as a refrigerator, washing machine, microwave oven, or air conditioner), or that contains a motor. Depending on the way in which the electrical appliance is used, power supply noise may cause this unit to malfunction or may produce audible noise. If it is not practical to use a separate electrical outlet, connect a power supply noise filter between this unit and the electrical outlet.

The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long hours of consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a cause for concern.

The use of an AC adaptor is recommended as the unit’s power consumption is relatively high. Should you prefer to use batteries, please use the rechargeable AA-type Ni-MH type.

When installing or replacing batteries, always turn off the power on this unit and disconnect any other devices you may have con- nected. This way, you can prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices.

Before connecting the AX-Synth to other devices, turn off the power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions and/or dam- age to other devices.

Placement

Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other equipment contain- ing large power transformers) may induce hum. To alleviate the problem, change the orientation of this unit; or move it farther away from the source of interference.

This device may interfere with radio and television reception. Do not use this device in the vicinity of such receivers.

Noise may be produced if wireless communications devices, such as cell phones, are operated in the vicinity of this unit. Such noise could occur when receiving or initiating a call, or while conversing. Should you experience such problems, you should relocate such wireless devices so they are at a greater distance from this unit, or switch them off.

Do not expose the AX-Synth to direct sunlight, place it near devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed vehicle, or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes. Excessive heat can deform or discolor the instrument.

When moved from one location to another where the temperature and/or humidity is very different, water droplets (condensation) may form inside the AX-Synth. Damage or malfunction may result if you attempt to use the AX-Synth in this condition. Therefore, before using the AX-Synth, you must allow it to stand for several hours, until the condensation has completely evaporated.

Do not allow objects to remain on top of the keyboard. This can be the cause of malfunction, such as keys ceasing to produce sound.

Depending on the material and temperature of the surface on which you place the unit, its rubber feet may discolor or mar the surface.

You can place a piece of felt or cloth under the rubber feet to pre- vent this from happening. If you do so, please make sure that the unit will not slip or move accidentally.

Maintenance

For everyday cleaning wipe the AX-Synth with a soft, dry cloth or one that has been slightly dampened with water. To remove stub- born dirt, use a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Afterwards, be sure to wipe the instrument thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.

Never use benzene, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or deformation.

Repairs and data

Please be aware that all data contained in the instrument’s mem- ory may be lost when it is sent for repairs. Important data should always be backed up using the Bulk Dump function (see p. 29). In certain cases (such as when circuitry related to memory itself is out of order), we regret that it may not be possible to restore the data. Roland assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.

Additional precautions

Please be aware that the contents of memory can be irretrievably lost as a result of a malfunction, or the improper operation of the unit. To protect yourself against the risk of losing important data, we recommend that you periodically save a backup copy of impor- tant data you have stored in the unit's memory (see p. 29).

Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents of data that was stored in the AX-Synth’s memory once it has been lost. Roland Europe assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.

Use a reasonable amount of care when using the AX-Synth’s but- tons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks and con- nectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.

When connecting/disconnecting all cables, grasp the connector itself—never pull on the cable. This way you will avoid causing shorts, or damage to the cable’s internal elements.

To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the AX-Synth’s vol- ume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about those around you (espe- cially when it is late at night).

When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box (including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise, you will need to use equivalent packaging materials.

The usable range of D Beam controller will become extremely small when used under strong direct sunlight. Please be aware of this when using the D Beam controller outside.

Use a reasonable amount of care when using the instrument’s buttons, other controls, and jacks/connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.

Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.

Handling CD-ROMs

Avoid touching or scratching the shiny underside (encoded sur- face) of the CD-ROM. Damaged or dirty CD-ROM discs may not be read properly. Keep your discs clean using a commercially available CD cleaner.

Precautions for batteries

Never use alkaline or zinc-carbon batteries.

The temperature range for use of the batteries depends on the battery type being used. Please see the documentation that came with the batteries.

Do not use or store batteries at high temperature, such as in strong direct sunlight, in cars during hot weather or directly in front of heaters. This may cause battery fluid leakage, impaired performance and shorten the batteries’ service life.

Do not splash fresh or saltwater on a battery or allow the termi- nals to become damp. This may cause heat generation and forma- tion of rust on the battery and its terminals.

If newly purchased batteries exhibit rust, generate heat or seem abnormal in any other way, do not use them. Take them back to your dealer.

Keep the batteries out of reach of babies or small children.

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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’ Panel descriptions Front panel‘Neck’ control section Bottom panelConnection panel rear Connecting the AC adaptor Making connectionsInserting or replacing batteries Connecting the AX-Synth Battery charge indicationControlling a MIDI-compatible sound source Controlling the AX-Synth from an external Midi deviceUsing headphones Some notes on using headphonesWorking with a computer or sequencer Powering up Turning the power offSelecting ‘regular’ Tones sequentially Playing the AX-SynthSelecting ‘regular’ Tones Numeric selection of a ‘regular’ ToneSelecting ‘SPECIAL’ Tones Grouping frequently-used Tones FavoriteSelecting ‘SuperNATURAL’ Tones Assigning a Tone to a Favorite memoryRecalling Favorite memories BankUsing the AX-Synth’s performance functions Master TuneTranspose Octave Switch mode Using the Modulation BarUsing the Touch Controller Octave Hold modeAftertouch Using the D Beam controllerSelecting the Bender Mode Usable range of the D Beam controllerSelecting the Portamento mode PortamentoAssigning a different function to the D Beam controller Sustaining notes Hold buttonFoot Pedal socket Editing Tone settings Editing the volume and Reverb Send levelsMidi messages that can be trans- mitted/received Using the AX-Synth as Midi controllerSetting the Midi transmit channel About the AX-Synth’s receive channelTransmitting 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 Possible applications Using the AX-Synth’s USB portGeneral considerations ConnectionMaking the settings for the USB driver Activating V-LINK How to use V-LINKAbout V-LINK Operations on the AX-SynthChecking the remaining battery charge Battery-related functionsLoading the factory settings Sleep mode settingTroubleshooting AppendixControl Change list Tone list Regular TonesSA EP Specifications Roland AX-Synth Shoulder SynthesizerMidi implementation chart Shoulder Synthesizer Date March Model AX-Synth VersionIndex IndicationInformation 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.