Chapter 1 Try Playing Some Sounds

Level

String number

Sensitivity value

4.Play each string individually with the maximum force to be used during the actual performance, and as you play the string, adjust the sensitivity with [PATCH/ VALUE] until all five indicators light up momentarily.

Too low

All five indicators light up momentarily

5.When you have finished making the settings, turn the PARAMETER to return to “PLAY MODE.”

*Sensitivity is a system parameter. The settings are saved automatically when the memories (G1–G4) is changed or the PARAMETER knob is turned, even without the Write procedure being carried out. The settings in each of the memories (G1–G4) are applied to all patches. However, whichever of the sets G1–G4 to be used by each patch (Calling Up Input Sensitivity Settings” p. 18) is a patch parameter. Use the Write procedure to save these settings.

Selecting Patches

Switching the GI-20’s patches allows you to change the values of settings instantly and perform using a wide variety of sounds.

What is a Patch?

The various information used in performing with the GI-20 is stored in sets called “patches.” In each patch you can store the settings values for the parameters described below, and switching these patches allows you to reproduce their settings instantly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Patch 50

 

 

 

• GUITAR SEL • BEND RANGE

 

 

 

 

Patch 03

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Patch 02

STRING MUTE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Patch 01

 

MONO/POLY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• ASSIGN

 

 

• STRING MUTE

 

• PLAY FEEL

 

• TRANSPOSE

• GUITAR SEL

• BEND RANGE

 

 

 

 

 

• PRG CHANGE

• MONO/POLY

 

• ASSIGN

 

• STRING MUTE

• PLAY FEEL

• TRANSPOSE

 

 

 

 

• PRG CHANGE

• MONO/POLY

• ASSIGN

• STRING MUTE

 

 

 

• PRG CHANGE

• MONO/POLY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

System Parameters and Patch Parameters

In contrast to the “patch parameters,” whose settings can be stored to each patch individually, parameters that are used by the GI-20 overall are called “system parameters.”

The following describes the different types of patch parameters and system parameters.

* Patch parameters are indicated in blue on the front panel.

System Parameters

•SENSITIVITY (p. 11)

•MIDI BASIC CH (p. 14)

•MIDI CTL CH (p. 15)

•PC MASK (p. 29)

•MASTER TUNE (p. 28)

System parameters are stored in the GI-20 when you turn the PARAMETER knob after making changes to the settings.

*The MIDI BASIC CH and MIDI CTL CH parameters are also stored in the GI-20 when you press [SELECT] after making changes to the settings.

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Roland GI-20 owner manual Selecting Patches, What is a Patch?, System Parameters and Patch Parameters
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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.
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