Roland GI-20 Speaker System Manual: Convenient Functions & USB Features

Chapter 3 Convenient Functions Featured by the GI-20

Receive Saved Data Through USB (BULK LOAD (USB))

Carrying out BULK LOAD automatically overwrites the settings data stored in the receiving device. Note that this will result in the loss of the data stored up to that time.

1.Use a USB cable to connect the computer and the GI-20.

*You cannot connect two GI-20s using a USB cable. Use a MIDI cable to connect GI-20s to each other.

2.Start up the application on your computer that will be handling the bulk data.

3.Turn the PARAMETER knob to “BULK.”

4.Press [SELECT] to select “Lu” (LOAD (USB)).

5.Transmit the data from the computer.

The following appears in the display during reception.

When the display changes back to “Lu,” reception is finished.

6.When you have finished the bulk load, turn the PARAMETER knob back to “PLAY MODE.”

*If you change to another screen (by pressing [SELECT] or by turning the PARAMETER knob) while the data is being received, any data that's been received won't be loaded into the GI-20.

If necessary, start the Bulk Load procedure over from the beginning.

When the data is received correctly, the dot on the display will light.

Reducing the Size of a MIDI Pitch Bend Message (BEND DATA THIN)

The Bend Data Thin Function

With the guitar, the finger vibrato technique can be used to produce organic vibratos with amplitude and speed that can be freely varied-something that’s very hard to do with a keyboard.

When creating sequencer data, the GI-20 records such finger vibratos, sliding, and tremolo bar usage as MIDI Pitch Bend messages. As a result of this, the MIDI performance message that is output contains a large number of Pitch Bend messages. In some cases, however, these Pitch Bend messages can greatly inflate the amount of data and exceed the sequencer’s memory capacity.

The Bend Data Thin function is available to keep this to a minimum.

The amount of Pitch Bend messages that are sent can be reduced by using the Bend Data Thin function. Although the smoothness of pitch changes deteriorates, this can reduce the amount of MIDI data.

* With the factory settings, Bend Data Thin is set to “Off.”

1.Turn off the power to the GI-20.

2.Hold down [WRITE] and turn on the power.

3.Press [SELECT], causing the first two indicators on the left of the display to light up.

The first two indicators light when you select BEND DATA THIN.

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4.Press [PATCH/VALUE] to select “On.”

If you do not want to reduce the size of the Pitch Bend Message being transmitted, select “oF” (Off).

OnOff

5.Turn the power off.

GI-20 specifications

The Roland GI-20 is a groundbreaking MIDI guitar converter that allows electric guitarists to explore the vast world of MIDI technology. Designed to bridge the gap between traditional guitar playing and digital music production, the GI-20 transforms standard guitar signals into MIDI data, giving players access to a wide array of synthesized sounds and virtual instruments.

One of the main features of the GI-20 is its ability to track the guitar’s pitch with high accuracy. Utilizing Roland’s advanced technology, the device boasts rapid response times and minimal latency, ensuring that every note plucked or strummed is translated into MIDI in real-time. This precision is crucial for guitarists who wish to maintain their playing style while experimenting with synthesizers and sampled instruments.

In terms of connectivity, the Roland GI-20 is equipped with a 13-pin connector, allowing it to interface seamlessly with compatible Roland synths, sound modules, and other MIDI devices. Additionally, standard MIDI outputs enable connection to MIDI controllers and computers, providing an expansive toolkit for music creation.

The user interface is designed with simplicity in mind. A large LCD display allows for easy navigation of settings, while intuitive controls help players adjust parameters on the fly. Guitarists can also customize their performance by altering the sensitivity levels, enabling them to fine-tune how the device responds to their playing style.

The GI-20 offers an array of built-in sounds that mirror the capabilities of traditional synthesizers. These sounds can be layered or split into different tones based on the player’s preferences, offering a variety of sonic textures to enhance compositions. Furthermore, the ability to save and recall user settings allows for quick access to preferred configurations during live performances.

Another significant characteristic of the GI-20 is its compatibility with a wide range of guitars, including both electric and bass guitars. As long as the instrument is equipped with the appropriate pickup system, the GI-20 can effectively convert its output into MIDI signals.

In summary, the Roland GI-20 is a versatile and innovative tool for guitarists seeking to expand their creative horizons. With its accurate tracking, extensive connectivity, user-friendly interface, and a wealth of sounds, it unlocks the potential for guitarists to dive into the realms of electronic music and MIDI composition. Whether in the studio or on stage, the GI-20 opens up a world of possibilities for musicians looking to blend traditional guitar playing with modern technology.