Next, you need to make the driver settings. (p. 57)
1) With the power switch turned OFF, connect the AC adaptor to the GI-20.
2) Connect the AC adaptor to an electrical outlet.
3) Use the USB cable to connect the GI-20 to your computer. fig.d99
USB connector of your Computer
USB cable GI-20
Computer
Switch ON the GI-20’s power switch.
* If you are using Windows 98, an Insert Disk dialog box will appear. Click [OK]. fig.d25
The “New Hardware Found” dialog box will appear. fig.d26
Installing & Setting Up the Driver (Windows)
6. Connect the GI-20 to your computer.

Once the connections have been completed, turn on power to your various devices in the order specified. By turning on devices in the wrong order, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to other devices.

7.

This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval (a few seconds) after power up is required before the unit will operate normally.

If you are using Windows 98 and the Insert Disk dialog box dose not appear, please read The “Insert Disk” dialog box does not appear (p. 65).

8.

Input the following into the “Copy files from” field, and click [OK].

 

D:\Win98_Me

 

* The drive name “D:” may be different for your system. Specify the drive name of your CD-ROM drive.

 

Once the driver has been installed, New Hardware Found dialog box will close.

9.

In the SetupInf dialog box, click [OK].

 

The SETUPINF dialog box will close.

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Image 56
Roland GI-20 owner manual SetupInf dialog box, click OK

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.