Roland RD-300NX User manual

202 + 3a
Copyright © 2011 ROLAND CORPORATION
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permis-
sion of ROLAND CORPORATION.
Roland, GS, and SuperNATURAL are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Roland Corporation in the
United States and/or other countries.
201a
Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (p. 4),
and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (p. 6). These sections provide important information concerning
the proper operation of the unit. Additionally, in order to feel assured that you have gained a
good grasp of every feature provided by your new unit, Owner’s manual should be read in its
entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.

4
USING THE UNIT SAFELY
Used for instructions intended to alert the
user to the risk of injury or material
damage should the unit be used
improperly.
* Material damage refers to damage or
other adverse eects caused with
respect to the home and all its
furnishings, as well to domestic animals
or pets.
Used for instructions intended to alert the
user to the risk of death or severe injury
should the unit be used improperly.
The symbol alerts the user to things that must be
carried out. The specic thing that must be done is
indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the
case of the symbol at left, it means that the power-cord
plug must be unplugged from the outlet.
The symbol alerts the user to important instructions or
warnings.The specic meaning of the symbol is
determined by the design contained within the triangle. In
the case of the symbol at left, it is used for general
cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.
The symbol alerts the user to items that must never be
carried out (are forbidden). The specic thing that must
not be done is indicated by the design contained within
the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that
the unit must never be disassembled.
About WARNING and CAUTION Notices About the Symbols
ALWAYS OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING
002c
Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its AC adap-
tor.
003
Do not attempt to repair the unit, or replace parts within
it (except when this manual provides specic instructions
directing you to do so). Refer all servicing to your retailer,
the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland
distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.
004
Never install the unit in any of the following locations.
• Subject to temperature extremes (e.g., direct sunlight
in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating duct, on top of
heat-generating equipment); or are
• Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet oors); or are
• Exposed to steam or smoke; or are
• Subject to salt exposure; or are
• Humid; or are
• Exposed to rain; or are
• Dusty or sandy; or are
• Subject to high levels of vibration and shakiness.
005
This unit should be used only with a stand (KS-G8) that is
recommended by Roland.
006
When using the unit with a stand (KS-G8) recommended by
Roland, the stand must be carefully placed so it is level and
sure to remain stable. If not using a stand, you still need to
make sure that any location you choose for placing the unit
provides a level surface that will properly support the unit,
and keep it from wobbling.
008c
Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with the unit.
Also, make sure the line voltage at the installation matches
the input voltage specied on the AC adaptor’s body. Other
AC adaptors may use a dierent polarity, or be designed
for a dierent voltage, so their use could result in damage,
malfunction, or electric shock.
008e
Use only the attached power-supply cord. Also, the supplied
power cord must not be used with any other device.
009
Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord, nor place
heavy objects on it. Doing so can damage the cord, produc-
ing severed elements and short circuits. Damaged cords are
re and shock hazards!
010
This unit, either alone or in combination with an amplier
and headphones or speakers, may be capable of producing
sound levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. Do
not operate for a long period of time at a high volume level,
or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience any
hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should immediately
stop using the unit, and consult an audiologist.
011
Do not place containers containing liquid on this product.
Never allow foreign objects (e.g., ammable objects, coins,
wires) or liquids (e.g., water or juice) to enter this product.
Doing so may cause short circuits, faulty operation, or other
malfunctions.
012b
Immediately turn the power o, remove the AC adaptor
from the outlet, and request servicing by your retailer, the
nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland
distributor, as listed on the “Information” page when:
• The AC adaptor, the power-supply cord, or the plug
has been damaged; or
• If smoke or unusual odor occurs
• Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been spilled onto
the unit; or
• The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise has
become wet); or
• The unit does not appear to operate normally or
exhibits a marked change in performance.
USING THE UNIT SAFELY

5
USING THE UNIT SAFELY
013
In households with small children, an adult should provide
supervision until the child is capable of following all the
rules essential for the safe operation of the unit.
014
Protect the unit from strong impact.
(Do not drop it!)
015
Do not force the unit’s power-supply cord to share an outlet
with an unreasonable number of other devices. Be espe-
cially careful when using extension cords—the total power
used by all devices you have connected to the extension
cord’s outlet must never exceed the power rating (watts/
amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive loads can cause
the insulation on the cord to heat up and eventually melt
through.
016
Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult with your
retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized
Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.
023
DO NOT play a CD-ROM disc on a conventional audio CD
player. The resulting sound may be of a level that could
cause permanent hearing loss. Damage to speakers or other
system components may result.
101b
The unit and the AC adaptor should be located so their
location or position does not interfere with their proper
ventilation.
101c
This (RD-300NX) for use only with Roland stand KS-G8. Use
with other stands is capable of resulting in instability caus-
ing possible injury.
101f
Even if you observe the cautions given in the owner’s
manual, certain types of handling may allow this product to
fall from the stand, or cause the stand to overturn. Please be
mindful of any safety issues before using this product.
102c
Always grasp only the plug on the AC adaptor cord when
plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.
103b
At regular intervals, you should unplug the AC adaptor and
clean it by using a dry cloth to wipe all dust and other accu-
mulations away from its prongs. Also, disconnect the power
plug from the power outlet whenever the unit is to remain
unused for an extended period of time. Any accumulation
of dust between the power plug and the power outlet can
result in poor insulation and lead to re.
104
Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entangled.
Also, all cords and cables should be placed so they are out
of the reach of children.
106
Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on the unit.
107c
Never handle the AC adaptor or its plugs with wet hands
when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this
unit.
108d: Selection
If you need to move the instrument, take note of the pre-
cautions listed below. At least two persons are required to
safely lift and move the unit. It should be handled carefully,
all the while keeping it level. Make sure to have a rm grip,
to protect yourself from injury and the instrument from
damage.
2
• Disconnect the power cord.
3
• Disconnect all cords coming from external devices.
109b
Before cleaning the unit, turn o the power and unplug the
AC adaptor from the outlet (p. 14).
110b
Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in your
area, disconnect the AC adaptor from the outlet.
118a_edit
Do not leave the removed ground terminal screw where
they might be accidentally swallowed by small children.

6
IMPORTANT NOTES
Power Supply
301
• Do not connect this unit to same electrical outlet that is being used
by an electrical appliance that is controlled by an inverter (such as a
refrigerator, washing machine, microwave oven, or air conditioner),
or that contains a motor. Depending on the way in which the
electrical appliance is used, power supply noise may cause this unit to
malfunction or may produce audible noise. If it is not practical to use a
separate electrical outlet, connect a power supply noise lter between
this unit and the electrical outlet.
302
• The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long hours of
consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a cause for concern.
307
• Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn o the power to all
units. This will help prevent malfunctions and/or damage to speakers
or other devices.
Placement
351
• Using the unit near power ampliers (or other equipment containing
large power transformers) may induce hum. To alleviate the problem,
change the orientation of this unit; or move it farther away from the
source of interference.
352a
• This device may interfere with radio and television reception. Do not
use this device in the vicinity of such receivers.
352b
• Noise may be produced if wireless communications devices, such as
cell phones, are operated in the vicinity of this unit. Such noise could
occur when receiving or initiating a call, or while conversing. Should
you experience such problems, you should relocate such wireless
devices so they are at a greater distance from this unit, or switch them
o.
354a
• Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near devices that
radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed vehicle, or otherwise subject
it to temperature extremes. Excessive heat can deform or discolor the
unit.
355b
• When moved from one location to another where the temperature
and/or humidity is very dierent, water droplets (condensation) may
form inside the unit. Damage or malfunction may result if you attempt
to use the unit in this condition. Therefore, before using the unit, you
must allow it to stand for several hours, until the condensation has
completely evaporated.
358
• Do not allow objects to remain on top of the keyboard. This can be the
cause of malfunction, such as keys ceasing to produce sound.
360
• Depending on the material and temperature of the surface on which
you place the unit, its rubber feet may discolor or mar the surface.
You can place a piece of felt or cloth under the rubber feet to prevent
this from happening. If you do so, please make sure that the unit will
not slip or move accidentally.
361
• Do not put anything that contains water (e.g., ower vases) on this
unit. Also, avoid the use of insecticides, perfumes, alcohol, nail polish,
spray cans, etc., near the unit. Swiftly wipe away any liquid that spills
on the unit using a dry, soft cloth.
Maintenance
401a
• For everyday cleaning wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth or one that
has been slightly dampened with water. To remove stubborn dirt, use a
cloth impregnated with a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Afterwards, be
sure to wipe the unit thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.
402
• Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any kind, to avoid
the possibility of discoloration and/or deformation.
Repairs and Data
452
• Please be aware that all data contained in the unit’s memory may be
lost when the unit is sent for repairs. Important data should always be
backed up USB memories, or written down on paper (when possible).
During repairs, due care is taken to avoid the loss of data. However, in
certain cases (such as when circuitry related to memory itself is out of
order), we regret that it may not be possible to restore the data, and
Roland assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.
Additional Precautions
551
• Please be aware that the contents of memory can be irretrievably lost
as a result of a malfunction, or the improper operation of the unit.
To protect yourself against the risk of loosing important data, we
recommend that you periodically save a backup copy of important
data you have stored in the unit’s memory on USB memories.
552
• Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents of data
that was stored in the unit’s memory, or USB memories once it has
been lost. Roland Corporation assumes no liability concerning such
loss of data.
553
• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unit’s buttons, sliders,
or other controls; and when using its jacks and connectors. Rough
handling can lead to malfunctions.
554
• Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.
555
• A small amount of noise may be heard from the display during normal
operation.
556
• When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the connector
itself; never pull on the cable. This way you will avoid causing shorts, or
damage to the cable’s internal elements.
558a
• To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the unit’s volume at
reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do not
need to be concerned about those around you.
558d_edit
• The sound of keys being struck and vibrations produced by playing
an instrument can be transmitted through a oor or wall to an
unexpected extent.
In particular, when using headphones, please take care not to cause
annoyance to others nearby.
559a
• When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box (including
padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise, you will need to use
equivalent packaging materials.
561
• Use only the specied expression pedal (EV-5, EV-7; sold separately). By
connecting any other expression pedals, you risk causing malfunction
and/or damage to the unit.

7
IMPORTANT NOTES
Using External Memories
704
• Carefully insert the USB memories all the way in; until it is rmly in
place.
705
• Never touch the terminals of the USB memories. Also, avoid getting
the terminals dirty.
708
• USB memories are constructed using precision components; handle
the USB memories carefully, paying particular note to the following.
• To prevent damage to the USB memories from static electricity, be
sure to discharge any static electricity from your own body before
handling the USB memories.
• Do not touch or allow metal to come into contact with the contact
portion of the USB memories.
• Do not bend, drop, or subject USB memories to strong shock or
vibration.
• Do not keep USB memories in direct sunlight, in closed vehicles, or
other such locations.
• Do not allow USB memories to become wet.
• Do not disassemble or modify the USB memories.
Handling CDs
801
• Avoid touching or scratching the shiny underside (encoded surface)
of the disc. Damaged or dirty CD discs may not be read properly. Keep
your discs clean using a commercially available CD cleaner.
Copyright
C-01-1
• Recording, duplication, distribution, sale, lease, performance, or
broadcast of copyrighted material (musical works, visual works,
broadcasts, live performances, etc.) belonging to a third party in
part or in whole without the permission of the copyright owner is
forbidden by law.
C-01-2
• Do not use this product for purposes that could infringe on a copyright
held by a third party. We assume no responsibility whatsoever with
regard to any infringements of third-party copyrights arising through
your use of this product.
C-03-4
• The copyright of content in this product (the sound waveform data,
style data, accompaniment patterns, phrase data, audio loops and
image data) is reserved by Roland Corporation and/or Atelier Vision
Corporation.
C-03-5
• Purchasers of this product are permitted to utilize said content for
the creating, performing, recording and distributing original musical
works.
C-03-6
• Purchasers of this product are NOT permitted to extract said content
in original or modied form, for the purpose of distributing recorded
medium of said content or making them available on a computer
network.
2a-2
• MMP (Moore Microprocessor Portfolio) refers to a patent portfolio
concerned with microprocessor architecture, which was developed
by Technology Properties Limited (TPL). Roland has licensed this
technology from the TPL Group.
T-01
• Company names and product names appearing in this document are
registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective owners.

8
USING THE UNIT SAFELY ............................. 4
IMPORTANT NOTES ................................. 6
Panel Descriptions .................................10
Front Panel ......................................................10
Rear Panel ......................................................12
Getting Ready ..................................... 13
Placing the RD-300NX on a Stand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Connecting the AC Adaptor .....................................14
Connecting External Equipment to the RD-300NX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Connecting Pedals ........................................16
Turning the Power On and O ...................................17
Turning On the Power .....................................17
Turning O the Power .....................................17
Adjusting the Volume ...........................................18
Adjusting the Display Contrast ...................................18
Connecting the USB Memory ....................................18
Connecting the CD Drive ........................................19
Overview of the RD-300NX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Basic Organization of the RD-300NX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
About Memory ............................................20
About Live Sets ...........................................21
Basic Operation .................................................22
Main Screens ..............................................22
About the Function Buttons ...............................23
About the Cursor Buttons ..................................23
Editing a Value ............................................24
Listening to the Demo (DEMO PLAY) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Performance ...................................... 26
Piano Performances .............................................26
Performing with a Variety of Live Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Playing Multiple Tones with the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Performing with Layered Tones (Dual Mode) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Playing Dierent Tones in Two Dierent Sections of the
Keyboard (Split Mode) .....................................28
Selecting the Layer that You want to Sound (Layer Switch) . . 29
Changing the Tone for a Layer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Adjusting the Volume Level for Individual Layers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Transposing the Key of the Keyboard (TRANSPOSE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Adding Reverberation to the Sound (REVERB) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Adding Breadth to the Sound (CHORUS/DELAY) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Changing the Sound’s Pitch in Real Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Adding Liveliness to the Sound (COMPRESSOR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Enhancing the sound’s denition (SOUND FOCUS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Adjusting the Levels of Each Frequency Range (EQUALIZER) . . . . . . 34
Disabling the Buttons (Panel Lock) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Using the Convenient Functions in Performances . . . . 36
Playing Rhythm .................................................36
Changing Rhythm Tempos .................................36
Changing the Rhythm Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Playing Songs ...................................................37
Selecting the Song ........................................37
Changing Song Tempos ...................................38
Fast-forwarding or Rewinding a Song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Return to the Beginning of the Song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Applying Eects to the Sound (MFX) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Selecting Stored Settings (Live Set ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Registering the Live Sets You Like . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Storing Settings to Live Sets .....................................41
Making Detailed Settings for the ONE TOUCH Tones . 42
Making Detailed Settings for the Piano Tones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Saving the Settings ........................................42
Changing the Key Touch ...................................44
Finely Adjusting the Tuning ................................44
Adjusting Resonance when the Damper Pedal is Depressed 44
Restore the Settings to Initial Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Making Detailed Settings for the E. PIANO Tones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Saving the Settings ........................................46
Restore the Settings to Initial Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Making Detailed Settings for Tones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Making Tone Settings ...........................................47
Making Layer Settings ...........................................49
Using the RD-300NX as a Master Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . 51
What’s MIDI? ....................................................51
About MIDI Connectors ....................................51
Adjusting the Volume of Each Layer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Selecting the Layer that You want to Sound (Layer Switch) . . 52
Selecting the MIDI Connector to Use for Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Setting the MIDI Transmit Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Selecting Sounds on an External MIDI Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Detailed Settings for Transmitted Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Adjusting the Volume and Pan (Volume/Pan) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Setting the Amount of Reverb and Chorus (Reverb/Chorus) . 55
Playing Sound Monophonically (Mono/Poly) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Setting the Transposition for Each Individual Layer
(Transpose) ...............................................55
Setting the Key Range for Each Layer (Key Range) . . . . . . . . . . 55
Changing the Range That Plays in Response to the Velocity
(Velocity Range) ...........................................56
Changing Tone Elements (ATK/DCY/REL/COF/RES) . . . . . . . . . .56
Smoothly Changing the Pitch (Portamento) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
Setting the Change in Volume According to the Force Used
to Play the Keyboard (Velocity Sense/Max) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Changing the Pitch (Coarse Tune/Fine Tune) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Setting the Range for the Change in Pitch with the Pitch
Bend Lever (Bend Range) ..................................57
Setting the Amount of Modulation Applied (Modulation
Depth) ....................................................57
Turning Each Controller On and O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Transmitting the Control Change (User CC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Detailed Settings for Each Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Setting Parameters ..............................................58
Making System Settings .........................................59
Tuning to Other Instruments’ Pitches (Master Tune) . . . . . . . . . 60
Adjusting the Volume (Master Volume) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Preventing Pedal Settings from Being Switched (Pedal
Mode) ....................................................60
Retaining the Current Tone Even When Tones are Switched
(Tone Remain). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Contents

9
Contents
Preventing the [S1] [S2] buttons from Being Switched (S1/
S2 Mode) .................................................60
Using Program Change Messages to Switch LIVE SETs (LIVE
SET Ctrl Ch) ...............................................61
Selecting the USB Driver (USB Driver) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Switching the USB Memory Mode (USB Memory Mode) . . . .61
Switching the Pedal’s Polarity (Damper/FC1/FC2 Polarity) . . . 61
Selecting the Number of Parts (Part Mode) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
Setting the Tuning Method (Temperament/Key) . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Switching Between Reception of GM/GM2 System On and
GS Reset (Rx GM/GM2 Sys On, Rx GS Reset) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
Setting the Keyboard Touch .....................................63
Changing the Key Touch (Key Touch) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Making Fine Adjustments to the Keyboard Touch (Key
Touch Oset) ..............................................63
Setting a Constant Volume Level in Response to the Playing
Force (Velocity) ............................................63
Changing the Timing of Sounds in Response to the Velocity
(Velo Delay Sens) ..........................................64
Changing the Touch Sensitivity According to the Key Range
(Velo Keyw Sens) .........................................64
Specifying the Note-o Keyboard Depth (Key O Position) .64
Pedal/[S1] [S2] Buttons Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Assigning Functions to Pedals (FC1/FC2 Pedal Assign) . . . . . . 65
Assigning Functions to the [S1] [S2] Buttons (S1/S2 Assign) . 65
Reverb/Chorus Settings .........................................66
Making Reverb Settings ...................................66
Setting Chorus and Delay ..................................66
Making the Compressor Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Selecting the Type of Compressor (Type) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Detailed Settings of Compressor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
File Management ...............................................68
Saving a Live Set File (LIVE SET Save) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Calling Up Live Set Files (LIVE SET Load) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Deleting a Live Set File (LIVE SET Delete) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Copying a Live Set File (LIVE SET Copy) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Deleting a Song (SONG Delete) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Copying a Song (SONG Copy) ..............................71
Formatting Memory (Format) ..............................72
Making the Rhythm Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Adjusting the Tempo (Tempo) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Adjusting the Volume (Volume) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Changing Patterns (Pattern) ...............................73
Changing the Drum Set (Rhy Set) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Selecting the MIDI Output Connector (MIDI OUT Port) . . . . . . 73
Selecting the MIDI Output Channel (MIDI Channel) . . . . . . . . . 73
About V-LINK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Turning the V-LINK ON/OFF ................................74
V-LINK Settings ............................................74
Detailed Settings of V-LINK ................................74
Local ON/OFF .............................................74
Changing Settings Related to Song Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Selecting the Parts that will Produce Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Restoring the Settings to the Factory Condition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Factory Reset Current ......................................76
Factory Reset All ..........................................76
Connecting External MIDI Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Recording RD-300NX Performances to an External MIDI
Sequencer ......................................................77
Connecting to an External Sequencer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
Settings for Recording .....................................77
Recording the Performance ................................77
Exiting Rec Mode ..........................................78
About the Local Switch ....................................78
Playing the RD-300NX’s Internal Sound Generator from an
External MIDI Device ............................................79
Making Connections ......................................79
Selecting RD-300NX Sounds from an External MIDI Device . . 79
Connecting to Your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Connecting to a Computer via the USB MIDI Connector . . . . . . . . . .80
Switching USB Drivers ...........................................81
Changing the USB Memory Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Appendices ....................................... 82
Troubleshooting ................................................82
List of Messages .................................................85
Error Messages ............................................85
Other Messages ...........................................86
Eect List .......................................................87
MFX ......................................................87
Chorus ....................................................87
Reverb ....................................................87
Main Specications ................................ 88
Index ............................................. 89
Purpose-Oriented Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

10
Panel Descriptions
1. [VOLUME] slider
Adjusts the overall volume that is output from the rear panel OUTPUT
jacks, and PHONES jack (p. 18).
2. EQUALIZER
[LOW] Knob
Adjusts the sound’s low-frequency range (p. 34).
[MID] Knob
Adjusts the sound’s midrange frequencies (p. 34).
[HIGH] Knob
Adjusts the sound’s high-frequency range (p. 34).
You can adjust the center frequency of each band by holding down
the [EXIT/SHIFT] button and turning the corresponding EQUALIZER
knob ([LOW] knob / [MID] knob / [HIGH] knob).
3. REVERB, CHORUS, COMPRESSOR, SOUND FOCUS
[REVERB] Button
Turns the reverb on/o (p. 32).
Adjusts the amount of reverb (p. 32).
By holding down the [REVERB] button and pressing the [CHORUS]
button, you can control a connected V-LINK compatible external video
device (p. 74).
[CHORUS] Button
Turns the chorus on/o (p. 32).
Adjusts the amount of chorus (p. 32).
By holding down the [REVERB] button and pressing the [CHORUS]
button, you can control a connected V-LINK compatible external video
device (p. 74).
[COMPRESSOR] Button
Turns the compressor on/o (p. 33).
Adjusts the amount of compression (p. 33).
[SOUND FOCUS] Button
Turns Sound Focus on/o (p. 34).
Allows you to enhance the sound’s denition (p. 34).
4. CONTROL
LAYER LEVEL Slider
Adjusts the volume level for each part (p. 30).
SONG/RHYTHM [SELECT] Button
Displays a screen where you can select a song or rhythm (p. 36, p. 37).
SONG/RHYTHM [ ] Button
Start/stops playback of the song or rhythm (p. 36, p. 37)
[MIDI] Button
Puts the RD-300NX in control of the external MIDI sound generator (p.
77).
[TRANSPOSE] Button
Sets the range of the keyboard to transposed (p. 31).
[SPLIT] Button
This button selects “Split mode,” whereby the keyboard is divided into
two regions, allowing you to play separate sounds with the right and
left hands (p. 28).
In addition, you can listen to the demo songs by simultaneously
pressing this button and the [DUAL] button (DEMO PLAY) (p. 25).
[DUAL] Button
This button selects “Dual mode”; allows you to play the UPPER 1 and
UPPER 2 tones layered across the entire keyboard (p. 28).
In addition, you can listen to the demo songs by simultaneously
pressing this button and the [SPLIT] button (DEMO PLAY) (p. 25).
Front Panel
9
10
1
2
3
4

11
Panel Descriptions
5. DISPLAY
This shows the Live Set names and the values of various settings, etc.
[LAYER EDIT] Button
This allows you to change the Layer settings (p. 49).
You can also use this to assign functions in some screens. The function
name is displayed by the bottom of the screen.
[TONE EDIT] Button
This allows you to change the tone settings (p. 47).
You can also use this to assign functions in some screens. The function
name is displayed by the bottom of the screen.
[DEC] Button, [INC] Button
These are used to modify values.
If you keep on holding down one button while pressing the other, the
value change accelerates.
Cursor [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ] Buttons
Press these to switch pages and to move the cursor.
[EXIT/SHIFT] Button
Pressed to return to a previous screen or to cancel a procedure that is
in progress.
Additionally, you can easily call up EDIT screens for related parameters
for the following functions by holding down this button while pressing
buttons, turning knobs, or operating other controllers.
[ENTER] Button
This is used to nalize a value or execute an operation.
6. ONE TOUCH
[PIANO] Button
Selects the optimum settings for piano performances (p. 42).
[E. PIANO] Button
Selects the optimum settings for E. Piano performances (p. 46).
7. FUNCTION
[MENU] Button
Press this button when you wish to adjust various settings (p. 58).
[WRITE] Button
Stores the current settings to “Live Set” (p. 41).
BANK [PRESET] button
Selects a Live Set from the Preset bank.
BANK [USER] button
Selects a Live Set that was saved in the User bank. Live Sets you edit
can be stored in the User bank (p. 41).
8. LIVE SET buttons
These buttons select Live Set categories (p. 27).
9. [S1] Button, [S2] Button
You can assign various functions to these buttons (p. 64). While
performing, you can press these buttons to use the assigned functions.
10. Pitch Bend/Modulation Lever
This allows you to control pitch bend or apply vibrato (p. 33).
5 6 7
8

12
Panel Descriptions
Rear Panel
19
20
1811 12 13 14 15 16 17
11. USB MEMORY Connector
Connect separately sold USB memory or a CD-ROM drive here (p. 18).
Use USB memory or a CD-ROM drive made by Roland.
12. USB MIDI Connector
You can connect this to your computer so that it can exchange
performance data with the RD-300NX (p. 80).
13. [DISPLAY CONTRAST] Knob
Adjusts the display’s contrast (p. 18).
14. PEDAL Jacks (DAMPER, FC1, FC2)
Connecting the pedal switch provided with the RD-300NX to the
DAMPER jack allows you to use the switch as a damper pedal.
With a pedal connected to the FC1 or FC2 jack, you can then assign a
variety of functions to the pedal (p. 64).
15. MIDI Connectors (IN, OUT)
Used for connecting external MIDI devices and for transmission of MIDI
messages (p. 77).
16. OUTPUT L (MONO)/R Jacks
Provide output of the audio signals. These are connected to an amp or
other device. For monaural output use the L/MONO jack (p. 15).
17. PHONES Jack
A set of headphones can be connected to this jack (p. 15).
Even when headphones are connected, sound will still be output from
the OUTPUT jacks.
18. Ground Terminal
Depending on the circumstances of a particular setup, you may
experience a discomforting sensation, or perceive that the surface
feels gritty to the touch when you touch this device’s metal portions.
This is due to an innitesimal electrical charge, which is absolutely
harmless. However, if you are concerned about this, connect the
ground terminal (see gure) with an external ground. When the unit
is grounded, a slight hum may occur, depending on the particulars of
your installation. If you are unsure of the connection method, contact
the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor,
as listed on the “Information” page.
Unsuitable places for connection
• Water pipes (may result in shock or electrocution)
• Gas pipes (may result in re or explosion)
• Telephone-line ground or lightning rod (may be dangerous in the
event of lightning)
19. [POWER] Switch
This switch turns the power on/o (p. 17).
20. DC IN jack
Connect the included AC adaptor to this connector (p. 14).
927

13
Getting Ready
Placing the RD-300NX on a Stand
If you place the RD-300NX on a stand, you must use the KS-G8 (sold separately). When placing the RD-300NX on the KS-G8, place it in the position
shown below.
NOTE
Using the RD-300NX with any other stand may produce an unstable situation, possibly causing the instrument to fall or overturn, and resulting in
injury or damage.
For details on how to assemble the stand, refer to the owner’s manual that accompanied the stand.
Align the rubber pads of the stand with the
rear edge of the RD-300NX.
Seen from the rear
Place the RD-300NX so that it does not rest
on the screws located beside its rubber feet.
Seen from the bottom
NOTE
When placing the RD-300NX on the stand, be careful not to pinch your ngers between the instrument and the stand.

14
Getting Ready
Connecting the AC Adaptor
1. Make sure that the [POWER] switch is o.
2. Move the [VOLUME] slider all the way down to minimize the volume.
3. Connect the supplied Power Cord to the included AC adaptor.
Power Cord
AC Outlet
Indicator
AC Adaptor
Place the AC adaptor so the side with the indicator (see illustration) faces upwards and the side with textual information faces downwards.
The indicator will light when you plug the AC adaptor into an AC outlet.
4. Connect the included AC adaptor to the DC IN jack located on the RD-300NX’s rear panel, and plug the power cord into an AC
outlet.
932

15
Getting Ready
Connecting External Equipment to the RD-300NX
The RD-300NX is not equipped with an amplier or speakers. In order to produce sound, you need to hook up audio equipment such as a monitor
speaker or a stereo set, or use headphones.
* Audio cables, USB cables, MIDI cables, headphones, expression pedals, and USB memory are not included. Consult your Roland dealer if you need
to purchase accessories such as these.
NOTE
To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices, always turn down the volume, and turn o the power on all devices before
making any connections.
Stereo
headphones
Computer
Damper pedal
(DP Series) Expression pedal (EV-5, EV-7)
or Pedal switch (DP Series)
Monitor speakers
(powered)
MIDI sound module etc.
MIDI sequencer etc.
to Power outlet
MIDI IN
MIDI OUT
RD-300NX Rear Panel
Pedal unit
(RPU-3)
921

16
Getting Ready
1. Before you begin making connections, conrm the following.
Is the volume level of the RD-300NX or connected amp turned all the way down?
Is the power to the RD-300NX or connected amp turned o?
2. Connect the included AC adaptor to the DC IN jack of the RD-300NX, and plug the power cord into an AC outlet.
3. Connect the RD-300NX and the external devices.
Use audio cables to connect audio equipment, such as an amp or speakers.
Use MIDI cables to connect MIDI devices. Use USB cables to connect computer.
If you are using headphones, plug them into the PHONES jack.
Connect pedal switches or expression pedals as necessary.
NOTE
• Use Stereo headphones.
Use headphones made by Roland. Using other headphones might not give you enough volume.
• Use only the specied expression pedal (EV-5, EV-7; sold separately). By connecting any other expression pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/
or damage to the unit.
MEMO
You can connect a commercially available CD drive (sold separately) to the USB MEMORY connector. You can use a CD drive to play back songs from
a CD.
Connecting Pedals
Connect the pedal included with the RD-300NX to one of the PEDAL jacks.
When connected to the DAMPER jack, the pedal can be used as a damper pedal.
Connecting the pedal to the FC1 or FC2 jack allows you to assign a variety of functions to the pedal (p. 50, p. 65).
NOTE
Set the switch on the included pedal to “Continuous” when the pedal is connected.
925

17
Getting Ready
Turning the Power On and O
NOTE
Once the connections have been completed (p. 15), turn on power to your various devices in the order specied. By turning on devices in the wrong
order, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to speakers and other devices.
Turning On the Power
1. Before you turn on the power, use the [VOLUME] slider to minimize the volume.
Also completely turn down the volume of any connected audio device and other equipment.
2. Press the [POWER] Switch on the back of the RD-300NX to turn on the power.
The unit is powered up, and the display’s backlighting comes on.
ON
OFF
NOTE
• To prevent incorrect functioning of the Pitch Bend/Modulation Lever (p. 33), refrain from touching the lever while the power to the RD-300NX is
turned on.
• 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.
• Always make sure to have the volume level turned down before switching on power. Even with the volume all the way down, you may still hear
some sound when the power is switched on, but this is normal, and does not indicate a malfunction.
• In the unlikely event the power is turned o or cut o while Factory Reset (p. 76) is in progress, the data may become corrupted, and it may require
additional time for the unit to start up the next time.
3. Turn on the power to connected external devices.
4. Adjust the volume of the connected external devices.
5. Adjust the RD-300NX’s volume.
Turning O the Power
1. Before you switch on the power, turn the volume down all the way by moving the [VOLUME] slider.
Also completely turn down the volume of any connected audio device and other equipment.
2. Turn o the power to connected external devices.
3. Press the [POWER] Switch on the back of the RD-300NX.
The power is switched o.
941
942
943

18
Getting Ready
Adjusting the Volume
1. Adjust the volume using the [VOLUME] slider.
Move the slider up to increase the volume, or down to lower it.
Also adjust the volume of the connected device to an appropriate level.
Adjusting the Display Contrast
The characters in the display may be dicult to view immediately after turning on the power or after extended use; this may also be because of where
and how the display is situated. In such instances, adjust the display contrast by turning the [DISPLAY CONTRAST] knob on the rear panel.
Rear Panel
Connecting the USB Memory
You can copy Live Set les and song les to separately sold USB memory for safekeeping.
You can also play back SMF music les that’s saved on USB memory, or play audio les from USB memory (p. 37).
1. Connect your USB memory to the USB MEMORY connector located on the RD-300NX’s rear panel.
Rear Panel
NOTE
• Use a USB memory sold by Roland. We cannot guarantee operation if any other USB memory is used.
• Never insert or remove a USB memory while this unit’s power is on. Doing so may corrupt the unit’s data or the data on the USB memory.
• Carefully insert the USB memory all the way in-until it is rmly in place.
MEMO
If you’re using new USB memory, you must rst initialize (format) it on the RD-300NX. For details, refer to “Formatting Memory (Format)” (p. 72).
930
931

19
Getting Ready
Connecting the CD Drive
If you’re using a stand (KS-G8), you can use the screw holes on the bottom of the RD-300NX to attach a CD drive (sold separately).
You can use a CD drive to play back audio tracks from a music CD, or SMF music data and audio les from a CD-ROM.
MEMO
For information on turning on/o your CD drive and how to insert or remove a CD, refer to the owner’s manual that came with your CD drive.
1. Connect the USB cable included with the CD drive to the RD-300NX’s USB MEMORY connector.
Rear Panel
NOTE
When connecting the USB cable, make sure that it is oriented correctly, and push it rmly all the way into the connector. Do not use excessive force.
2. Switch on power to the connected CD drive.
3. Switch on the RD-300NX’s power.
NOTE
• Use a CD drive sold by Roland. We cannot guarantee operation if any other CD drive is used.
• CDs that contain both music tracks and data will not play correctly.
• The RD-300NX is capable of playing back only commercial CDs that conform the ocial standards-those that carry the “COMPACT disc DIGITAL
AUDIO” logo.
• The usability and sound quality of audio discs that incorporate copyright protection technology and other nonstandard CDs cannot be guaranteed.
• For details on music discs that incorporate copyright protection technology, please contact the disc manufacturer.
• You cannot save songs to CDs, and you cannot delete songs recorded to CDs. Furthermore, you cannot format CDs.

20
RD-300NX
Rewritable memory
USB memory
SONG
Live Set
Non-rewritable memory
Preset memory
Live Set
200 sets
Rewritable memory
User memory
Live Set
60 sets
System memory
Temporary memory (Temporary area)
Live Set
Temporary memory
Temporary area
Data for the patch you select via the front panel buttons is called up to
this area.
When you play the keyboard or play back the SMF, sounds are
produced according to the settings that are in the temporary area.
When you edit a patch, the changes you make do not directly modify
the data in memory; rather, the data is read into the temporary area,
then modied.
The settings in the temporary area will be lost when you turn o the
power or call up other settings. If you want to keep the data that’s in
the temporary area, you must store it into rewritable memory.
Rewritable memory
System memory
System memory contains system parameter settings that specify how
the RD-300NX is to operate.
User memory
Live Sets can be stored in user memory.
USB memory (p. 18)
Live Sets and songs can be stored in USB memory in the same way as
in user memory.
Non-rewritable memory
Preset memory
The data in preset memory cannot be rewritten.
If you’ve edited data that was recalled from preset memory, you can
store it in rewritable memory (user memory or USB memory).
Overview of the RD-300NX
Basic Organization of the RD-300NX
The RD-300NX can be divided into two sections: a controller section and a sound generator section.
Controller Section
(controllers such as keyboard, pitch bend lever, etc.)
Sound Generator Section
Play
Controller Section
This section includes the keyboard, the Pitch Bend/Modulation lever,
the panel knobs, the sliders, and any pedal connected to the rear
panel. Actions such as pressing and releasing of keys on the keyboard,
depressing a damper pedal, and so forth, are converted to MIDI
messages and sent to the sound generator section, or to an external
MIDI device.
Sound Generator Section
The sound generator section produces the sound. Here, MIDI
messages received from the controller section or external MIDI device
are converted to musical signals, which are then output as analog
signals from the OUTPUT and PHONES jacks.
About Memory
Memory provides storage locations where Live Sets and other settings are stored. There are three types of memory: “temporary memory,” “rewritable
memory,” and “non-rewritable memory.”