Chapter 6. Sequencer (Playback)

Tempo Adjustment

1.Press [TEMPO].

2.[TEMPO] lights, and the “TEMPO” screen appears.

3.Use [+/-] or [VALUE] to select the tempo.

4.Press [EXIT] to return to the “DRUM KIT” screen.

Setting the Tempo by Hitting a Pad (Tap Tempo)

You can set the tempo by hitting a pad or [PREVIEW] two or more times at quarter-note intervals of the desired tempo.

1.Press [TEMPO].

[TEMPO] lights, and the “TEMPO” screen appears.

2.Press [F3 (TAP)].

The “TAP TEMPO” screen appears.

3.Press [CURSOR (up)] to move the cursor to “Tap Switch.”

4.Use [+/-] or [VALUE] to set to “ON.”

5.Press [CURSOR (down)] to move the cursor to “Tap Pad.”

6.Use [+/-] or [VALUE] to select the pad (or [PREVIEW]) to use for Tap Tempo function.

7.Press [KIT] to return to the “DRUM KIT” screen.

When you hit the pad (or [PREVIEW] selected in the step 5,

the tempo is displayed at the upper right of the display.

Synchronizing with an External MIDI Device

This section discusses the settings that allow an external MIDI sequencer and the TD-20’s sequencer to be synchronized. The device that is playing back is called the “master” and the device that is synchronizing to the playback is called the “slave.”

1.Press [TEMPO].

[TEMPO] lights, and the “TEMPO” screen appears.

2.Press [F2 (SYNC)].

The “TEMPO SYNC” screen appears.

3.Use [+/-] or [VALUE] to make settings.

4.Press [KIT] to return to the “DRUM KIT” screen.

Parameter

Value

Description

 

 

 

 

 

Sync Mode

INTERNAL, EXTERNAL,

See below.

 

 

AUTO, REMOTE

 

6

 

 

Chapter [PLAY]

The TD-20’s tempo setting will be used for playback/

INTERNAL:

 

 

 

recording. When shipped from the factory, this setting is selected.

EXTERNAL:

The TD-20’s sequencer will operate in accordance with tempo data (MIDI Clock) from the external device.

AUTO:

This is a convenient setting that combines features of both the INTERNAL and EXTERNAL settings. When no synchronization signal is being received, the TD-20’s tempo setting will be used for playback/recording. When a synchronization signal is being received from an external device, the TD-20 will sync to that signal.

REMOTE:

The TD-20 will obey start/pause/stop messages from an external device, but will playback according to its own tempo setting.

Synchronizing to the playback of an external sequencer

In this case, the TD-20 will be the slave and an external sequencer will be master.

1.Connect the TD-20’s MIDI IN connector with a MIDI cable to the MIDI OUT connector of the external sequencer.

2.Set Sync Mode to “EXTERNAL.”

3.Begin playback on the external sequencer.

Synchronized playback will begin.

53

Page 52 Page 54
Page 53
Image 53
Roland TD-20 Tempo Adjustment, Setting the Tempo by Hitting a Pad Tap Tempo, Synchronizing with an External Midi Device
Page 52 Page 54

TD-20 specifications

Roland has long been a leader in digital percussion instruments, and their range of electronic drum kits showcases both innovation and quality. Among the various models, the TD-12, TMC-6, TD-3, TD-8, and TD-20 stand out, each offering unique features and technologies that cater to a wide array of drummers.

The Roland TD-12 represents a balance of sophistication and ease of use. Equipped with advanced digital trigger technology, it provides an authentic drumming experience with highly responsive pads. The TD-12 also features a robust selection of sounds, including a broad array of kits and customizable options. The unit supports USB connectivity for easy integration with DAWs, making it popular among studio musicians.

The TMC-6 is an advanced trigger-to-MIDI interface designed for drummers who want to trigger sounds from external sources. It allows for quick and seamless connectivity with drum pads, triggering samples or other instruments in real time. The TMC-6 boasts multiple trigger inputs, adjustable sensitivity, and customizable MIDI outputs, making it an excellent tool for live performances and studio recordings.

Moving to the TD-3, this model is known for its affordability while still offering quality and versatility. It comes loaded with a variety of preset kits, making it beginner-friendly. The TD-3 also includes a wide range of onboard effects, allowing drummers to manipulate and enhance their sound with ease.

The TD-8 is a slightly more advanced option, featuring enhanced sound quality with its advanced digital trigger technology. It offers an extensive library of drum, percussion, and even ethnic sounds that can be customized extensively. With features like velocity-sensitive pads and adjustable triggering, the TD-8 is ideal for both live performances and practice sessions.

Lastly, the TD-20 stands as a flagship model known for its professional-grade features. Its expanded sound library and unprecedented sound editing capabilities allow users to fine-tune their kits to suit their playing styles. The TD-20 features advanced wave technology, providing superior audio quality and dynamics. Additionally, its Multi-Effects Processing enhances live performance, allowing drummers to shape their sound in real time.

In summary, Roland’s TD series and TMC-6 midi interface encapsulate innovation in electronic drumming, catering to both beginners and professionals through their diverse range of features, sounds, and adaptability. Whether for studio use, live performance, or practice, these instruments continue to shape the electronic percussion landscape.
Top Page Image Contents