Chapter 1 Try Playing Some Sounds

1.Turn the PARAMETER knob to “MIDI CHANNEL.”

2.Press [SELECT] to select BASIC CHANNEL (BASIC CH).

When BASIC CHANNEL is selected, the two indicators at the left light up.

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3.Press [PATCH/VALUE] to select the Basic channel number.

*Since the six channels used in MONO MODE are consecutive, selecting Channel 12–16 as the Basic channel results in the MIDI channel number for the sixth string to exceed the allowable range of 1–16. In this case, the display flashes, and the performance data is sent by Channel 11–16.

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

*The Basic channel is a system parameter. It is saved automatically when the PARAMETER knob is turned, even without the Write procedure being carried out, and the settings values are applied to all patches.

Setting the Control Channel (CTL CH)

You can connect a foot controller or other such device to the MIDI IN connector to switch patches and perform other operations. In this case, you will need to set the “control channel” for reception of MIDI messages.

The control channel is a dedicated channel used only for receiving MIDI messages transmitted over the channel set to the same number. MIDI messages transmitted over other channels are disregarded.

*However, when the control channel is set to “OMNI mode” (Omni), MIDI messages are received regardless of the channel.

*With the factory settings, the control channel is set to “OMNI.”

The GI-20’s MIDI IN/OUT cannot be used under the

following conditions.

When MIDI IN and OUT are connected directly

When the Soft Thru for the sequencer connected to MIDI IN/OUT is set to ON

In either case, the error message “E3” (p. 37) appears, and the GI-20 stops functioning normally.

The GI-20 can receive the following types of MIDI messages over the control channel.

Control Change

Control Change messages received over the control channel are transmitted over the basic channel (in MONO mode, all of the transmission channels for the strings).

Additionally, you can control the functions set in Assign (p.

19)by assigning Control Changes to the general (assignable) controllers 3–8.

General Purpose Controller 3 (CC #18):

Expression Pedal

General Purpose Controller 4 (CC #19):

Foot Switch 1

General Purpose Controller 5 (CC #80):

Foot Switch 2

General Purpose Controller 6 (CC #81):

GK Volume

General Purpose Controller 7 (CC #82):

S1 Switch

General Purpose Controller 8 (CC #83):

S2 Switch

*These Control Change messages are not transmitted externally to other devices.

*For data corresponding to the Foot Switches 1/2 and S1/S2 Switches, 00h–3Fh are output as 00h (OFF), and 40h–7fh are output as 7fh (ON).

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Roland GI-20 Setting the Control Channel CTL CH, Control Change, Press PATCH/VALUE to select the Basic channel number

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.