Roland Ultimate AX Synth Manual and Editor Guide for Musicians
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rAX-Synth Owner’s Manual

1. The AX-Synth in a nutshell

High-quality Internal sound source

A “shoulder synthesizer”, the AX-Synth comes with 256 high-quality sounds specially selected for solo performances, 4 SuperNATURAL™ sounds (Violin, Cello, Shakuhachi, Trombone) and 4 SPECIAL sounds (Trumpet, Sax, Strings and Jazz Scat).

Cable-free live operation possible

The AX-Synth can be powered by 8 rechargeable AA- type Ni-MH batteries with a battery life of about 6 hours. If combined with a commercially available wireless system, it allows you to play wherever you like, to follow the singer or any other musician on stage, etc., with no cables to pay attention to.

It even provides an attenuator switch to adapt its output level to the input sensitivity of the wireless system you are using.

Convenient studio operation

An AC adaptor and the USB port allow the AX-Synth to be used with a computer. Dedicated editor and librarian software is also available. The “AX-Synth Editor” software, which includes librarian software, can be downloaded free of charge from Roland’s website: http://www.Roland.com.

All performance controls within reach

The AX-Synth provides control functions that are conveniently and ergonomically built into its neck. The AX-Synth puts you in control of your sound: key velocity sensitivity, a D Beam controller, an AFTER- TOUCH knob, a modulation bar, a TOUCH CONTROL- LER ribbon, a PORTAMENTO button, a HOLD button and a BENDER MODE button are built in.

The D Beam controller can be set to transmit almost any control change message (CC) you may ever need. Finally, the AX-Synth sports a FOOT PEDAL socket to which you can connect a DP-series hold pedal.

In-depth programming with the ‘AX-Synth editor’

The AX-Synth comes with dedicated editor and librarian software that allows you to modify (and save) all aspects of the internal sounds. Combined with this intuitive software, the AX-Synth becomes a fully-fledged synthesizer.

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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 upSelecting ‘regular’ Tones Playing the AX-SynthSelecting ‘regular’ Tones sequentially Numeric selection of a ‘regular’ ToneSelecting ‘SuperNATURAL’ Tones Grouping frequently-used Tones FavoriteSelecting ‘SPECIAL’ Tones Assigning a Tone to a Favorite memoryBank Recalling Favorite memoriesUsing the AX-Synth’s performance functions Master TuneTranspose Using the Touch Controller Using the Modulation BarOctave Switch mode Octave Hold modeSelecting the Bender Mode Using the D Beam controllerAftertouch 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 the volume and Reverb Send levels Editing Tone settingsSetting the Midi transmit channel Using the AX-Synth as Midi controllerMidi messages that can be trans- mitted/received 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 General considerations Using the AX-Synth’s USB portPossible applications ConnectionMaking the settings for the USB driver About V-LINK How to use V-LINKActivating V-LINK Operations on the AX-SynthLoading the factory settings Battery-related functionsChecking the remaining battery charge Sleep mode settingAppendix 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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