Chapter 2 Creating Your Own Settings (Patches)

Shifting the Pitch of the Sound (TRANSPOSE)

On the GI-20, you can shift the pitch, in semitone steps, of what is output over MIDI relative to which is actually played. This transposition can be set individually for each string, and can be any amount from three octaves below the original pitch to two octaves above it. This function is called “TRANSPOSE.”

This allows you to perform with open tuning, drop tuning, and other alternative tunings without having to actually change the guitar’s own tuning.

1.Turn the PARAMETER knob to “TRANSPOSE.”

2.Press [TUNER (STRING SEL)] to select the string whose pitch you want to change.

The string number changes each time you press [TUNER (STRING)], cycling through ALL → 1 → 2 → 3 → 4 → 5 → 6 → ALL...

Select “ALL” if setting all of the strings to the same value.

3.After selecting the string whose pitch you want to change, press [PATCH/VALUE] to change the setting. You can set the TRANSPOSE settings value in a range from -36 (down three octaves) to 24 (up two octaves).

-36 (-3 octaves)

24 (+2 octaves)

*If notes whose pitches are changed using the TRANSPOSE function are in registers that are unplayable using MIDI messages, the MIDI messages in the expressable range above or below that octave are transmitted. For example, the sound of the bass’s fourth string (E) lowered by three octaves cannot be played using MIDI messages, so the MIDI message for the note lowered two octaves is transmitted instead.

4.Repeat Steps 2 and 3 for any other strings you want to set.

5.If you want to save the settings, carry out the Write procedure (p. 26).

*If you do not want to save the settings, turn the PARAMETER knob to return to “PLAY MODE.”

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

Setting the Range in Which Pitches Are Changed (BEND RANGE)

The GI-20 can send continuous pitch changes obtained with techniques such as bending, finger vibrato, tremolo bar usage, and sliding to an external device. This is done using MIDI Pitch Bend Change messages.

Setting Bend Range to as large a value as possible will help enable smooth pitch changes in a wider range. The settable range varies according to the receiving sound module. For equipment having a different settable width in the bend up and down directions, match the setting to the narrowest value.

About messages that notify the external MIDI instrument of the Bend Range and prompt change

The setting called Bend Range must be matched up on the sending and receiving instruments.

The GI-20 normally informs the external MIDI device of the Bend Range setting on the GI-20, and sends a message prompting change every time the patch is switched.

This means that the Bend Range value on the sound module can be set automatically every time the patch is changed simply by matching the maximum Bend Range value that can be set on the external MIDI sound module to the GI-20. The messages used here are MIDI RPN (Registered Parameter Number) “Pitch Bend Sensitivity” messages (Control Change messages No. 100, No. 101, No. 6, and No. 38).

If you are using an external MIDI sound module which cannot recognize such messages, manually change Bend Range on the external device to the same value on the GI-20. Refer to the Owner’s Manuals for the external sound module for information about its MIDI specifications.

*If the transmission mode is set to POLY, the MIDI messages transmitted when two or more strings are played simultaneously use semitone steps, which disallows string bending, slide, and certain other techniques. For more on the transmission mode settings, refer to “Setting the Transmission Mode” (p. 14).

*When Glide or Pitch Bend is selected as the foot switch or expression pedal Assign (p. 19) setting, and the BEND RANGE setting is within the range of the Glide or Pitch Bend range, the Glide or Pitch Bend will cut out and be retriggered.

23

Page 22 Page 24
Page 23
Image 23
Roland GI-20 Shifting the Pitch of the Sound Transpose, Setting the Range in Which Pitches Are Changed Bend Range
Page 22 Page 24

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.
Top Page Image Contents