Connecting to MIDI Devices

Transmitting/Receiving

Sound Selection Data—

Program Change

Program Changes are messages that tell an instrument to “switch to sound number x.”

When the other device receives this message, it will switch to whichever of its sounds corresponds to the number contained in the message.

When you press the MP-500’s Tone button to change tones, a Program Change message with the corresponding Program Number is sent via the MIDI Out connector. Furthermore, a Program Change message received via the MIDI In connector changes the tone to the one with the corresponding Program Number.

Each time the power is turned on, the instrument will always be set to “On” (it will transmit/receive Program Change messages).

If you set it to “Off,” the MP-500 will no longer send out Program Change message when you change the tone being used. Also, the MP-500 will then ignore any Program Change messages when that are sent to it by an external unit, and will not change the tone it is playing.

While holding down the [Piano 1] button, [Piano 2] button, and [Harpsichord] button, press the “E5” note to turn the setting On, or the “F5” note to turn the setting Off.

fig.8-11.e

Electric

Electric

Harpsi-

Vibra-

Pipe

Strings

Piano 1 Piano 2 Piano 1

Piano 2

chord

phone

Organ

Tone

Tempo

Beat

Sound On/Off

Play

Rec

Demo Song

 

Metronome

 

 

 

 

On Off

The tones and their corresponding Program Number appear

below:

Program Number

Tone

 

 

 

 

01

Piano 1

02

Piano 2

03

04

Harpsichord

05

Vibraphone

06

Electric Piano 1

07

Electric Piano 2

08

Pipe Organ

09

Strings

10

Piano1 + Piano2

11

Piano1 + Harpsichord

12

Piano1 + Vibraphone

13

Piano1 + Electric Piano1

14

Piano1 + Electric Piano2

15

Piano1 + Pipe Organ

16

Piano1 + Strings

17

Piano2 + Harpsichord

18

Piano2 + Vibraphone

19

Piano2 + Electric Piano1

20

Piano2 + Electric Piano2

21

Piano2 + Pipe Organ

22

Piano2 + Strings

23

Harpsichord + Vibraphone

24

Harpsichord + Electric Piano1

25

Harpsichord + Electric Piano2

26

Harpsichord + Pipe Organ

27

Harpsichord + Strings

28

Vibraphone + Electric Piano1

29

Vibraphone + Electric Piano2

30

Vibraphone + Pipe Organ

31

Vibraphone + Strings

32

Electric Piano1 + Electric Piano2

33

Electric Piano1 + Pipe Organ

34

Electric Piano1 + Strings

35

Electric Piano2 + Pipe Organ

36

Electric Piano2 + Strings

37

Pipe Organ + Strings

38

Acoustic Bass / Piano1

39

Acoustic Bass / Piano2

40

Strings / Harpsichord

41

Acoustic Bass / Vibraphone

42

Acoustic Bass / Electric Piano1

43

Acoustic Bass / Electric Piano2

44

Pipe Organ / Harpsichord

45

Strings / Piano1

34

Page 34
Image 34
Roland MP-500 owner manual Transmitting/Receiving Sound Selection Data Program Change, Program Number Tone

MP-500 specifications

The Roland MP-500 is a powerful and versatile digital piano tailored for both professional musicians and passionate hobbyists. Renowned for its rich sound palette and exceptional playing experience, the MP-500 combines advanced technologies with user-friendly features.

One of the standout features of the Roland MP-500 is its SuperNATURAL Piano technology. This innovative sound engine mimics the nuances of an acoustic piano, providing a highly authentic experience. Musicians can appreciate the natural decay of notes, responsive touch sensitivity, and dynamic range that reflects the subtleties of an experienced player. This technology also extends to a variety of other instrument sounds, creating a diverse sonic landscape for users to explore.

The keyboard action of the MP-500 is another remarkable characteristic. It boasts a PHA-4 standard keyboard with escapement, offering a weighted feel that emulates the touch of an acoustic piano. Each key is designed to respond dynamically to the player's touch, allowing for expressive playing whether performing delicate passages or powerful chords. This attention to tactile feedback makes the MP-500 an excellent choice for those who prioritize authenticity in their instrument.

Connectivity is a critical aspect of the Roland MP-500. It features a host of inputs and outputs, including USB, MIDI, and audio connections, which facilitate integration with music production software, recording devices, and external sound modules. The USB capability also allows for direct connection to computers, enhancing the versatility of the instrument for digital compositions.

In addition to its acoustic capabilities, the Roland MP-500 is equipped with a range of digital features. Users can access a library of onboard music styles and rhythms that can serve as accompaniment while practicing or performing. The built-in metronome and recording functions are invaluable tools for musicians looking to hone their skills or capture their creative ideas on the fly.

Furthermore, the MP-500 is designed for ease of use. The intuitive interface features a clear LCD display and dedicated controls that allow players to quickly navigate through sounds and settings, making it simple to customize the instrument to suit individual preferences.

With its combination of authentic sound, responsive action, extensive connectivity, and user-friendly interface, the Roland MP-500 is a standout choice for any musician seeking a high-quality digital piano experience. Its integration of acoustic piano nuances with modern digital technology positions it at the forefront of digital instruments, appealing to a broad audience of music lovers and performers alike.