Chapter 1 Try Playing Some Sounds

Connecting to a Computer

This section explains how to connect the GI-20 to your computer with a USB cable and use it as a tool to input data to sequencers and other devices.

No USB cable is included with the GI-20. You will need to purchase a third-party USB cable separately.

Do not press [SELECT] or connect (or disconnect) any device or cable to (or from) the USB connector during performances or while operating sequencers or other devices with the computer. This may cause malfunctioning of the computer or MIDI sound module.

*First, follow the instructions in “Installing & Setup the Driver” (p. 45) to install the GI-20 driver on your computer.

Setting the MIDI Port

This setting determines which MIDI data from the GI-20 is used by the applications on your computer.

In the application’s MIDI device selection screen, select “Roland GI-20 MIDI IN” as the input device and “Roland GI- 20 MIDI OUT” as the output device.

*For instructions on selecting the input device, refer to the owner’s manual for the application you are using.

Roland GI-20 MIDI IN

This is the port used for inputting performance data to the GI-20 from your computer.

Input here is performance data from guitars and basses equipped with GK connectors.

Roland GI-20 MIDI OUT

This is the port used for outputting performance data to your computer from the GI-20.

When MIDI PLAYBACK is set to ON, the performance data the GI-20 receives from the computer is output as is from the GI-20’s MIDI OUT connector (refer to “Setting the MIDI Data Path (MIDI PLAYBACK)” p. 17).

Setting the MIDI Data Path

(MIDI PLAYBACK)

You can switch the MIDI messages that are output from MIDI OUT. Set MIDI PLAYBACK to “Off” when you want to output performance data input from the GK input directly from the MIDI OUT connector. When you want to output your computer’s MIDI performance data from the GI-20’s MIDI OUT connector, for example, if you want to play the computer’s MIDI data through an external MIDI sound module, set this to “On.”

1.Turn the PARAMETER knob to “PLAY MODE.”

2.Press [SELECT] to set MIDI PLAYBACK to “On” or “Off.” [SELECT] is lit when this is set to “On”; when set to “Off,” [SELECT] is unlit.

*MIDI PLAYBACK cannot be set to “On” unless the computer and the GI-20 are connected with a USB cable.

Signal Paths That Can Be Selected With

MIDI PLAYBACK

When MIDI PLAYBACK is On: [SELECT] is lit

PC

USB MIDI

Sound

Module

When MIDI PLAYBACK is Off: [SELECT] is unlit

PC

USB MIDI

Sound

Module

17

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Roland GI-20 owner manual Connecting to a Computer, Setting the Midi Port, Setting the Midi Data Path
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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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