In most cases, the ribbon allows you to change the pitch of the notes you are playing (Pitch Bend).

Selecting the Bender Mode

The [BENDER¥MODE] button at the back of the neck can be used to select one of two modes for the TOUCH CON- TROLLER ribbon:

[BENDER¥MODE]

The ribbon works like any Pitch Bend

is off

device, i.e. it immediately affects the pitch

(Normal mode)

of the notes you are playing.

 

 

[BENDER¥MODE]

If you place a finger somewhere off cen-

lights

ter on the Touch Controller (not in the

(Catch + Last

middle) and then play a note, that note

mode)

uses its normal pitch. To bend it at a later

 

stage, keep holding the note and slide

 

your finger past the Touch Controller’s

 

center.

 

If you first play a note and then slide a

 

finger over the Touch Controller, the

 

note’s pitch changes immediately. Subse-

 

quent notes you play while still touching

 

the ribbon will use their normal pitch,

 

however. Combining these two tech-

 

niques allows you to simulate “double

 

bendings” of electric guitarists.

 

 

Aftertouch

The [AFTER¥TOUCH] knob can be used to generate chan- nel aftertouch messages for the notes you are playing. The AX-Synth’s keyboard does not transmit these mes- sages (it is velocity sensitive, however).

What happens now depends on the aftertouch assign- ment of the Tone you are using: the knob may change the Tone’s level or pitch, generate filter sweeps etc. (This needs to be specified using the “AX-Synth Editor” soft- ware.)

Note: The knob does not return to its minimum setting auto- matically. Do not forget to turn it back to zero if you no longer need the aftertouch functionality.

rAX-Synth Owner’s Manual

Using the D Beam controller

The D Beam controller can be used simply by waving your hand over it. Depending on the function you select, the D Beam controller can be used to apply various effects and to modify the sounds.

The usable range of the D Beam controller

The diagram shows the usable range of the D Beam controller. Waving your hand outside this range will produce no effect.

Note: The usable range of the D Beam controller will become extremely small when used under strong light.

(1)Select the function you want the D Beam control- ler to perform by pressing one of the following buttons:

PITCH

Moving your hand over the D Beam con-

 

troller changes the pitch of the notes you

 

are playing.

 

 

FILTER

Moving your hand over the D Beam con-

 

troller changes the cutoff frequency

 

(brightness).

ASSIGNABLE The D Beam transmits the selected Control Change message (see below).

(2)While you play the keyboard to produce sound, place your hand above the D Beam controller and move it slowly up and down.

The button you pressed in step (1) above flashes.

(3)To turn off the D Beam controller, once again press the button you pressed in step (1) so the indicator goes dark.

23

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Roland AX-Synth Aftertouch, Using the D Beam controller, Selecting the Bender Mode, Usable range of the D Beam controller

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.