Roland Introduction to the BR-864, Features, Simple operation, Digital audio workstation

Introduction to the BR-864

Features

Simple operation

The BR-864 is designed to be operated as easily as a cassette tape recorder, even by beginners.

Whether you are simply preparing a demo tape, or are getting ready to go to master with your first album, the simple operation of the BR-864 allows you to create digital recordings the very day you take it out of the box.

Digital audio workstation

All processes are fully digital

In addition to a digital mixer and digital recorder, the BR-864 contains four digital effects processors.

It is possible to perform all steps needed for recording, including editing, bouncing tracks, using effects, and mixing down, entirely within the digital realm, so there is no deterioration in the signal quality. In addition, by connecting digital devices like DAT recorder, MD recorder and CD recorder, you can do recording your data with full digital processing.

Using the USB connector also allows you to save the song data you create to a computer.

Equipped with V-Tracks

The BR-864 has eight audio recording tracks, which provides for simultaneous recording on two tracks, or simultaneous playback from eight tracks. Moreover, each track incorporates eight virtual tracks, called “V-Tracks,” for a total recording capability of 8 x 8 = 64 tracks! This increased versatility allows you to do things such as record numerous takes of a guitar solo, which you can later choose from when putting it all together. Also, while playing back eight tracks, you can use the bounce mode to bounce to a V-Track and perform stereo bouncing without needing to erase any data.

What are V-Tracks?

Each track consists of eight virtual tracks, and you can choose any one of these tracks for recording or playback. This means that you can record to up to a maximum of 64 tracks, and then select any eight of them to play back. These virtual tracks that make up the actual tracks are called “V-Tracks.”

fig.00-101

V-Track1

V-Track2

V-Track3

V-Track4

V-Track5

V-Track6

V-Track7

V-Track8

A “Track Sheet” is provided at the rear of this manual (p. 198), which you make copies of, and fill in when recording music to V-Tracks.

Rhythm Guide function

The “Rhythm Guide function” (p. 35, p. 90) makes it easy to capture phrases or musical ideas that come to mind. Simply select an appropriate rhythm pattern, and set the tempo.

In addition to the internal preset rhythm patterns already provided, you can also create your own original rhythm patterns.

By recording using the Rhythm Guide function, editing one measure at a time is greatly simplified.

Four versatile digital effects processors

The BR-864 contains four types of effect units.

The effects groups used for recording (insert effects), send and return (loop effects), tone shaping (Track EQ), and mastering (Mastering Tool Kit) stand as independent effects, and the effects other than the Mastering Tool Kit can be used simultaneously.

This means that the BR-864 does not require any external effect devices to produce a sophisticated song.

The BR-864 has many built-in simulations and effects, including amp modeling with COSM for a wide variety of insert effects. Many effects for vocal, keyboard, and guitar tracks are also included for a vast array of applications. The loop effects include spatial effects such as chorus and reverb, which are vital for proper stereo mixdown.

The Track EQ is a built-in, two-band EQ whose utility is most fully exhibited in making tone adjustments during mixdown. The Mastering Tool Kit allows you add compression to songs that have been mixed down and provides a variety of other effects.

For a more detailed explanation of insert and loop effects, refer to “What is an insert effect?” (p. 33), “What is a loop effect?” (p. 41), “Adjusting the tone (Track EQ)” (p. 40), and “What is a Mastering Tool Kit?” (p. 38) respectively.

14