Roland RD-88 User manual

Owner’s Manual (this document)
Read this rst. It explains the basic things you need to know in order to use the RD-88.
PDF Manual (download from the Web)
5Parameter Guide
This explains all parameters of the RD-88.
5Sound List
This is a list of the sounds built into the RD-88.
5MIDI Implementation
This is detailed information about MIDI messages.
To obtain the PDF manual
1. Enter the following URL in your computer.
http://www.roland.com/manuals/
I
2. Choose “RD-88” as the product name.
Before using this unit, carefully read “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” and
“IMPORTANT NOTES”(the leaet “USING THE UNIT SAFELY”and the
Owner’s Manual (p. 28)). After reading, keep the document(s) where it
will be available for immediate reference.
© 2020 Roland Corporation
Owner’s Manual

3
Introduction
Placing the RD-88 on a Stand
If you want to place the RD-88 on a stand, use the Roland KS-10Z or KS-12.
Be careful not to pinch your ngers when setting up the stand.
KS-10Z
Align the horizontal centers of the
RD-88 and of the stand.
Adjust the width of the stand to the
second stage or wider. It cannot be
used in the narrowest screw hole
position.
Align the front of the RD-88
with the front of the stand.
KS-12
Adjust the width of the stand
so that the rubber feet on the
keyboard side of the bottom of
the keyboard t into the holes
provided for the rubber.
Top view
Note when placing the RD-88 on a stand
Be sure to follow the instructions in the Owner’s Manual carefully when placing this unit on a stand.
If it is not set up properly, you risk creating an unstable situation which could lead to the unit falling or the stand toppling, and may
result in injury.
Be careful not to pinch your ngers when setting up the stand.
Beware of overturning!
To prevent the RD-88 from overturning, do not apply excessive force to it, and never sit or stand on it.
Turning the Power On and O
Press the [L] (power) button to turn the power on.
Long-press the [L] (power) button to turn the power o.
* The power to this unit will be turned o automatically after a
predetermined amount of time has passed since it was last used
for playing music, or its buttons or controls were operated (Auto
O function). If you do not want the power to be turned o
automatically, disengage the Auto O function. For detail, refer to
“Parameter Guide” (PDF).
* Unsaved data is lost when the power turns o. Before turning the
power o, save the data that you want to keep (p. 23).
* Before turning the unit on/o, always be sure to turn the volume
down. Even with the volume turned down, you might hear some
sound when switching the unit on/o. However, this is normal
and does not indicate a malfunction.

4
Panel Descriptions
1
WHEEL 1/2
Turn the wheels to modify the sound. You can specify the type of
change that occurs (p. 15).
2
[L] switch
Turns the power on/o.
[VOLUME] knob
Adjust the overall volume of the RD-88.
[TONE COLOR] knob
Varies the tonal character or sound image (p. 16).
If the [EQ ADJUST] button is lit, this operates as the EQ [LOW]
knob (p. 17).
[MFX] knob
Adjust the depth of the eect (p. 16).
If the [EQ ADJUST] button is lit, this operates as the EQ [MID] knob
(p. 17).
[CHORUS/DELAY] knob
Adjust the chorus/delay depth (p. 15).
If the [EQ ADJUST] button is lit, this operates as the EQ [HIGH]
knob (p. 17).
[REVERB] knob
Adjusts the reverb depth (p. 14).
[EQ ADJUST] button
Turn this on when you want to adjust the EQ. When this button
is on (lit), you can use the above three knobs to adjust the EQ
(p. 17).
[ASSIGN] button
You can assign desired parameters to the knobs for adjustment.
When this button is on (lit), the knobs adjust the values of the
assigned parameters (p. 20).
[COMPRESSOR] button
Turns the compressor on/o (p. 15).
[TRANSPOSE] button
Lets you transpose your performance (p. 14).
LEVEL [LOWER], [UPPER2], [UPPER1] knobs
Adjust the volume of each zone (p. 13).
LEVEL [MIC/LINE IN] knob
Adjusts the input level of MIC/LINE.
[SPLIT] button
Turns the Split Mode on/o (p. 11).
This lets you divide the keyboard into left and right regions and
play a dierent sound in each.
By pressing this button and the [DUAL] button simultaneously,
you can listen to demo songs (p. 10).
[DUAL] button
Turns the Dual Mode on/o (p. 11).
This layers UPPER 1 and UPPER 2 tones together across the entire
keyboard.
By pressing this button and the [SPLIT] button simultaneously,
you can listen to demo songs (p. 10).
[EXTERNAL CTRL SETTING] button
Accesses a screen where you can make settings for controlling an
external MIDI sound module (p. 21).
Top Panel
1 3 4 52

5
Panel Descriptions
[MIC/LINE IN SETTING] button
Accesses the MIC/LINE input setting screen. You can apply EQ and
reverb to the MIC/LINE input (p. 7).
3
Display
Shows the Scene names and the values of various settings, etc.
4
[<] [>] [ ] [ ] buttons
Press these to switch pages and to move the cursor.
[INC] [DEC] buttons
Modify values. If you keep on holding down one button while
pressing the other, the value change accelerates.
[SHIFT] button
You can easily call up Edit screens for related parameters by
holding down this button while pressing buttons, turning knobs,
or operating other controllers (refer to “List of Shortcut Keys”). If
you edit a parameter value while holding down this button, the
value will change more greatly.
[EXIT] button
Press to return to a previous screen or to cancel a procedure that
is in progress.
[ENTER] button
Press this to conrm a value or execute an operation.
5
[ONE TOUCH PIANO] button
Recalls a piano sound (Scene).
You can also make settings so that a favorite sound is recalled
instead of a piano sound (p. 11).
NOTE
Note that when you press this button to recall a piano sound, the
settings you’re editing are lost.
FAVORITE [ON] button
Turns on/o the function (FAVORITE function) that recalls favorite
sounds you’ve registered (p. 18).
FAVORITE [BANK] button
Selects the bank of FAVORITE memories (p. 18) in which you can
register your favorite sounds.
[MENU] button
The MENU screen appears.
[WRITE] button
The WRITE screen appears.
[KEY TOUCH] button
Accesses a screen where you can make keyboard touch settings
(p. 13).
SONG/RHYTHM [SELECT] button
Accesses a screen where you can select songs or rhythms
(p. 19, p. 20).
SONG/RHYTHM [s] button
Starts/stops playback of the song or rhythm (p. 19, p. 20).
[SPEAKER ON] button
Turns the internal speakers on/o.
The internal speakers turn o when headphones are plugged
into the headphone jack, but pressing this button turns on the
speakers even if headphones are connected. You can also turn o
the speakers even if headphones are not connected.
[PANEL LOCK] button
Long-press this button to turn panel lock on/o (a function that
disables panel operations)(p. 17).
[PIANO]–[OTHER] buttons / [0]–[9] buttons
Select Tone (Scene) categories (p. 11).
If the [FAVORITE] button or the [BANK] button are lit, these
buttons operate as [0]–[9] buttons (p. 18).
List of Shortcut Keys
* “ [A]+[B] ”indicates the operation of“holding down the [A] button
and pressing the [B] button.”
Shortcut Explanation
[SHIFT] + [DEC]
[SHIFT] + [INC]
Changes the value in steps of 10. When the
Scene screen is shown, this changes the Scene
category.
[SHIFT] + Favorite [BANK], or
[SHIFT] + Favorite [ON] Accesses the Favorite list.
[SHIFT] + operate a knob 1–4 Jumps to the parameter edit screen for the
corresponding knob.
[SHIFT] + operate a knob 1–8 * If the [ASSIGN] button is on
Jumps to the knob assignment edit screen.
[SHIFT] + operate a WHEEL 1/2 Jumps to the wheel assignment screen.
[SHIFT] + operate a pedal Jumps to the pedal assignment screen.

6
Panel Descriptions
6
DC IN jack
Connect the included AC adaptor here.
USB MEMORY port
You can connect a USB ash drive here.
USB COMPUTER port
You can connect this to your computer so that it can exchange
performance data and audio signal with the RD-88.
MEMO
5The RD-88 supports USB MIDI and USB Audio. In order to use
USB Audio, the dedicated USB driver must be installed on
your computer. You can download the driver from the Roland
website.
5For details on USB driver settings and USB MIDI/Audio settings,
refer to“Parameter Guide”(PDF).
5You can use a dedicated plugin to control software on your
computer in more sophisticated ways. For details, refer to the
Roland website.
Rear Panel (Connecting Your Equipment)
Power Cord
AC Outlet
6 7 8
USB ash drive
Pedal unit (RPU-3) Expression pedal (EV Series)
or
Pedal switch (DP Series)
Mixer etc.
Monitor speakers
(powered)
Mic
Audio player
headphones
External MIDI Device
* To prevent malfunction and equipment failure, always turn down the volume, and turn o all the units before making any connections.
AC Adaptor

7
Panel Descriptions
7
MIDI OUT connector
Transmits MIDI messages to an external MIDI device connected
here.
PEDAL jacks (DAMPER/R, FC2/C, FC1/L)
Connecting the pedal switch provided with the RD-88 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. 20).
* Use only the specied expression pedal. By connecting any other
expression pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage
to the unit.
8
INPUT jacks (MIC, LINE)
You can connect a mic or external audio device, and use the mic
to sing while you perform, or perform along with a song that plays
back from your external audio device
Jack Explanation
MIC Connect a mic (sold separately) to this jack.
LINE This is an audio input jack. You can connect your audio player or
other audio source here.
MEMO
5Use the [MIC/LINE IN] knob to adjust the volume.
5The RD-88 supports dynamic mics. Condenser mics are not
supported.
5You can apply EQ and reverb to the input audio. Press the [MIC/
LINE IN SETTING] button to access the setting screen. You can
also access the same screen via [MENU]0[INPUT SETTING]. For
details on the parameters that can be set, refer to “Parameter
Guide” (PDF).
OUTPUT jacks (L/MONO, R)
These are connected to an amp or other device. For mono output,
use the L/MONO jack.
PHONES jack
You can connect a set of headphones here.

8
Overview of the RD-88
Basic Organization of the RD-88
RD-88 can be divided into two sections: a controller section and a
sound generator section.
Controller Section
(controllers such as keyboard, modulation wheels, etc.)
Sound Generator Section
Play
Controller Section
This section includes the keyboard, the modulation wheels, 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 Scenes
RD-88 lets you store the sounds that you create.
A sound you create is called a “Scene”; you can use the buttons to recall a Scene and then play it.
Scene
Zone (UPPER 1)
Zone (UPPER 2)
Zone (UPPER 3)
Rhythm
Reverb
Chorus
Tone MFX
EQ
EQ
EQ
MFX
MFX
Tone
Tone
Tone Color
Tone Color
Tone Color
Compressor
Equalizer
IFX/Sympathetic Resonance
Zone
The RD-88 features three parts (UPPER 1, UPPER 2, and LOWER) that
you can use for freely controlling the internal parts with the RD-88’s
buttons and keyboard. These three parts that are used for controlling
the internal parts are collectively known as the “Zone.”
Furthermore, you can freely control external MIDI sound generators
with the RD-88 in the same manner as with the Zone. You can
likewise control the external MIDI sound generator with the three
parts (UPPER 1, UPPER 2, and LOWER), with this group of three parts
being referred to as the “EXTERNAL Zone.”The external MIDI sound
generator is assigned to these three parts for control.
Tone
The individual sounds used when playing the RD-88 are referred to as
“Tones.”Tones are assigned to each zone.
Rhythm
Drum patterns for a variety of musical genres such as jazz and rock
are built in. You can play back these patterns.
Eects
Each zone 1–3 provides a MFX, EQ, and Tone Color that can be set
independently for each zone.
There are also reverb, Chorus, and IFX/Sympathetic Resonance that
can be used in common by all zones.

9
Overview of the RD-88
Basic Operation
Main Screens
Scene screen (Basic Screen)
The currently selected Scene is displayed (p. 11).
You can edit this Scene.
Song/Rhythm screen
When the SONG/RHYTHM [SELECT] button is pressed, this screen is
displayed.
You can change Rhythm patterns, the tempo and the volume
(p. 20).
You can also connect USB ash drive (sold separately) to the USB
MEMORY connector and play audio les that you’ve saved in the USB
ash drive.
Press the [EXIT] button to return to the Scene screen.
About the Cursor Buttons
The cursor buttons are used for switching screens, and for moving to
an item whose setting you want to change (by moving the cursor).
Moving between display pages
When arrow symbols (“ ” and “ ”) appear at the upper right of the
display screen, it indicates that there are additional pages in the
directions shown by the arrows.
You can switch screens with the Cursor [<] and [>] buttons.
Navigating among items to be set (cursor)
When more than one parameter is present in a screen, the name and
value of the parameter to be changed is shown with a box around
it. This box is referred to as the “cursor.”The cursor is moved with the
cursor buttons.
Cursor
Editing a Value
When changing settings values, you can use the [DEC] and [INC]
buttons.
Purpose Panel operation
To continuously
change the value Hold down the [DEC] button or [INC] button.
To rapidly increase
the value
While holding down the [INC] button, press the [DEC]
button.
Conversely, you can rapidly decrease the value by holding
down the [DEC] button and pressing the [INC] button.

10
Performance
Listening to the Demo (DEMO PLAY)
Here’s how to listen to the demo songs.
NOTE
5No data for the music that is played will be output from MIDI OUT
connectors.
5The RD-88’s keyboard will not produce sound while the demo
songs are playing.
1
2
3
2
54
MEMO
When you enter demo mode, any unsaved settings are lost.
Store any arrangements of settings that you want to keep in Scene or
System (p. 23).
1. Hold down the [SPLIT] button and press the [DUAL]
button.
The RD-88 enters the demo mode. The Demo screen appears.
2. Use the Cursor [ ] [ ] buttons or the [DEC] [INC]
buttons to select a demo song.
3. Press the [ENTER] button to start playback of the
demo song.
4. Press the [EXIT] button to stop a demo song during
playback.
5. Press the [EXIT] button while the song is stopped to
nish with the Demo mode.
You will return to the previous screen.
Piano Performances
Now, try performing with the piano.
The RD-88 lets you call up the ideal settings for piano performance
at any time simply by pressing a button. You can also select your
preferred tones and settings and store them to the RD-88’s buttons.
2
1
1. Press the [PIANO] button or the [E. PIANO] button.
Pressing the [PIANO] button sets the entire keyboard to play with
the piano tone.
Pressing the [E. PIANO] button sets the entire keyboard to play
with the electric piano tone.
2. Use the [DEC] [INC] buttons to select a Scene.
MEMO
In the Scene screen, when the cursor is at the Scene number, you
can press the [ENTER] button to access a list of Scenes. You can use
the cursor buttons to select a Scene. After selecting a Scene, press
the [EXIT] or [ENTER] button to return to the Scene screen.
Making Detailed Settings
With the RD-88, you can also make more detailed settings
to make the sound even better match your favorite piano
performances. Congurations can be stored for each Scene.
For details on the Scene parameter settings, refer to“Making
Detailed Settings for Tones” (p. 23).
NOTE
When you edit a setting, an “*” will appear.
If you turn o the power or select a One Touch tone or a Scene while
the “*” is shown, the changes you made will be discarded. If you want
to keep the settings, save the Scene (p. 23).

11
Performance
Performing with a Variety of Scenes
The RD-88 comes with a many built-in Sounds.
Each one of these individual sounds is called a “Scene.”
Scenes are assigned to the Scene category buttons according to the
tone category selected.
Each category has several Scenes.
Try selecting and performing with a number of dierent Scenes.
1
2
1. Press any of the Scene category buttons to select
the category.
The indicator of the selected Scene category button will light.
2. Use the [DEC] [INC] buttons to select the Scene.
Play the keyboard, and you will hear the selected Scene.
NOTE
If you turn o the power or select a dierent Scene when an“*”
is shown in the display, the setting changes you’ve made will be
discarded. If you want to keep the settings, save the Scene (p. 23).
Playing MultipleTones with the Keyboard
The RD-88 features three Internal zones (UPPER 1, UPPER 2, and
LOWER), and one tone can be assigned to each of these zones.
You can perform using combinations of tones by turning each zone
on or o. You can have multiple tones layered together at the same
time, and even have dierent tones played in the left and right parts
of the keyboard.
UPPER 1
UPPER 2
LOWER
Performing with LayeredTones (Dual Mode)
This mode lets you play the UPPER 1 and UPPER 2 tones layered
across the entire keyboard.
21
1. Press the [DUAL] button, getting the indicators to
light.
Try ngering the keyboard.
The Tones for UPPER 1 and UPPER 2 are layered and played.
The screen shows the UPPER 2 tone.
2. To nish the DUAL MODE, press the [DUAL] button
once again, to make the indicator light goes out.
The Tones for UPPER 1 played.
MEMO
You can also layer three tones by adding the LOWER tone. For details,
refer to“Making Detailed Settings for Tones”(p. 23).

12
Performance
Playing Dierent Tones in Two Dierent
Sections of the Keyboard (Split Mode)
Such a division of the keyboard into right- and left-hand sections is
called a “Split,” and the key where the division takes place is called the
“Split Point.”
While in Split mode, a sound played in the right side is called an
“UPPER part,” and the sound played in the left side is called a “LOWER
part.”The split-point key is included in the LOWER section.
The Split Point has been set at the factory to “F#3.”
MEMO
You can change the split point. Please refer to “Changing the
Keyboard’s Split Point” (p. 12).
21
1. Press the [SPLIT] button, getting the indicator to
light.
Split Point (F#3)
LOWER UPPER 1
Try ngering the keyboard.
The UPPER 1 tone plays in the right-hand section of the keyboard,
and the LOWER tone plays in the left-hand section.
The screen shows the LOWER tone.
2. To exit Split mode, press the [SPLIT] button once
more, and the indicator light goes out.
Changing the Keyboard’s Split Point
You can change the point at which the keyboard is divided
(the Split Point) in Split mode.
1. Hold down the [SPLIT] button for several seconds.
Current value of the setting is displayed.
2. While holding down the [SPLIT] button, press the
key that is to become the new split point.
When you release the [SPLIT] button, the previous display will
reappear.
The split-point key is included in the LOWER section.
Zone Range
UPPER 1, UPPER 2 Split Point +1–C8
LOWER A0–Split Point
When you specify the split point, each zone’s key range will be
divided to left and right at the split point, and will be set to the
values shown in the table.
MEMO
5You can change the split point, adjusting it in semitone
increments, by holding down the [SPLIT] button and pressing the
[DEC] [INC] buttons.
5You can freely set whatever key ranges you like to each zone. For
details, refer to “Parameter Guide”(PDF).
UPPER 1
UPPER 2
LOWER
Changing the Tone for a ZONE
2
1
1. In the Scene screen, use the cursor buttons to select
the zone whose tone you want to change.
2. Use the [DEC] [INC] buttons to select a tone.
You can use [SHIFT] + [<] [>] buttons to select the tone bank.
MEMO
When the cursor is located at the tone, you can press the [ENTER]
button to access a list of tones.
After selecting a tone, press the [EXIT] button to return to the
Scene screen.
Button Explanation
[ENTER] Switch between bank screen and category
screen
cursor [ ] [ ] Select tones
cursor [<] [>] Select bank (categories)

13
Performance
Adjusting theVolume Level for Individual
Zones
You can use the LEVEL [LOWER], [UPPER2], and [UPPER1] knobs to
adjust the volume of each zone.
MEMO
Use the [VOLUME] knob when adjusting the overall volume level
(p. 4).
Changing the KeyTouch
You can make advanced settings for the touch used for the keys.
1
3
2
1. Press the [KEY TOUCH] button.
The keyboard touch settings screen appears.
2. Use the cursor [ ] [ ] buttons to select a parameter,
and use the [DEC] [INC] buttons to change its value.
3. Press [EXIT] to return to the previous screen.
MEMO
The key touch settings can be saved individually for each Scene. To
save the settings, refer to “Saving a Scene (Write)” (p. 23).
Parameter Value Explanation
Source
SCENE The key touch settings specied by the
Scene are enabled.
SYS
The key touch settings specied for the
system are enabled.
MEMO
If you want the key touch to be the same
for multiple Scenes, set Source to “SYS.”
You can access the shared key touch
settings via [MENU]0[SYSTEM]0[KEY
TOUCH]. To save the settings, execute the
system write operation (p. 27).
If you’ve selected a Scene whose Source is
set to “SYS,” you can press the [KEY TOUCH]
button to access the SYSTEM Key Touch
setting screen.
Velo Crv
(Velocity Curve)
SPR LIGHT An even lighter setting than LIGHT.
LIGHT
This sets the keyboard to a light touch. You
can achieve fortissimo () play with a less
forceful touch than usual, so the keyboard
feels lighter. This setting makes it easy to
play, even for children.
MEDIUM
This sets the keyboard to the standard
touch. You can play with the most natural
touch. This is the closest to the touch of an
acoustic piano.
HEAVY
This sets the keyboard to a heavy touch.
You have to nger the keyboard more
forcefully than usual in order to play
fortissimo (), so the keyboard touch feels
heavier. Dynamic ngering adds even
more feeling to what you play.
SPR HEAVY An even heavier setting than HEAVY.
Velo Oset
(Velocity Oset) -10–+9
This setting provides even more precise
adjustment of the key touch than available
with the Velocity Curve setting alone.
This allows you to achieve a more precise
setting for the Velocity Curve by specifying
an intermediate value between Key Touch
settings. The touch sensitivity becomes
heavier as the value increases.
When this parameter is set to a value
that exceeds the upper or lower limit,
the setting for Velocity Curve (one of ve
possible values) is automatically changed
to accommodate the value you’ve
specied.
Velocity
REAL Volume levels and the way sounds are
played change in response to the velocity.
1–127
The xed velocity value you specify here
will determine the volume and the way
the sound is produced, regardless of your
keyboard playing strength.
Velo Dly Sens
(Velocity Delay
Sensitivity)
-63–+63
This sets the interval from the time the key
is played to when the sound is produced.
As the value is decreased, the timing of
the sound is delayed more when more
force is used to play the keys. As the value
is increased, the timing of the sound is
delayed more when less force is used to
play the keys.
Velo Keyfollow
(Velocity Keyfollow
Sensitivity)
-63–+63
This setting changes the touch sensitivity
according to the key range being used.
As the value is increased, the touch
becomes heavier in the upper registers,
and lighter in the lower keys.
KeyO Pos
(Key O Position)
STANDARD Note-o will occur at the depth of a
conventional piano.
DEEP Note-o will occur at a deeper position.
This is suitable for electric piano sounds.

14
Performance
Transposing the Key of the Keyboard
(TRANSPOSE)
You can transpose performances without changing the keys you are
playing. This feature is called “Transpose.”
This is a convenient feature to use when you want to match the pitch
of the keyboard performance to a vocalist’s pitch, or perform using
the printed music for trumpets or other transposed instruments.
You can adjust the transpose setting in semitone steps over a range
of -5–0–+6 relative to C4. The Transpose has been set at the factory
to “0.”
1 2 3
1. Hold down the [TRANSPOSE] button for several
seconds.
The Transpose screen appears, and the current value of the setting
is displayed.
2. Hold down the [TRANSPOSE] button and press a
key.
If you press the C4 (middle C) key, the transpose amount will be
set to “0.”
For example, to have“E” sound when you play “C”on the
keyboard, hold down the [TRANSPOSE] button and press the E4
key. The degree of transposition then becomes“+4.”
When you release the [TRANSPOSE] button, the previous display
will reappear.
When the amount of transposition is set, the Transpose function
switches on, and the [TRANSPOSE] button lights up.
MEMO
5You can also transpose by holding down the [TRANSPOSE] button
and using the [DEC] [INC] buttons.
5If you hold down the [TRANSPOSE] button and press F#4 or a
higher key, the transpose amount is set to [+6].
5If you hold down the [TRANSPOSE] button and press G3 or a lower
key, the transpose amount is set to [-5].
3. To turn o Transpose, press the [TRANSPOSE]
button so that its indicator goes o.
The next time [TRANSPOSE] button is pressed, the sound is
transposed by an amount corresponding to the value set here.
NOTE
5If the transpose amount is 0, the [TRANSPOSE] button will not turn
on even if you press it.
5When you turn the power o, the transpose amount returns to 0.
Adding Reverberation to the Sound
(REVERB)
The RD-88 can apply a reverb eect to the notes you play on the
keyboard.
Applying reverb adds pleasing reverberation to what you play, so it
sounds almost as if you were playing in a concert hall.
1
1. Turn the [REVERB] knob.
The depth of the reverb eect changes.
You can adjust the reverb depth in a range of 0–127.
MEMO
You can select the type of reverb in the MENU screen 0“SYSTEM
EFFECTS” 0“Sys Reverb” page.
NOTE
In the [MENU] 0[SCENE EDIT] 0[ZONE EDIT] 0“INTERNAL”
page, if the“Rev Send (reverb send)” value is set to “0,” no reverb
eect is applied. Also, depending on the settings of the Scene, there
might be cases in which turning the knob does not apply an eect.
For details, refer to“Making Detailed Settings for Tones” (p. 23).

15
Performance
Adding Breadth to the Sound
(CHORUS/DELAY)
You can apply a chorus and delay eect to the notes you play on the
keyboard.
By adding the chorus and delay eect, you can give the sound
greater dimension, with more fatness and breadth.
1
1. Turn the [CHORUS/DELAY] knob.
The depth of the chorus/delay eect changes.
You can adjust chorus/delay depth in a range of 0–127.
MEMO
You can select the type of chorus/delay in the MENU screen 0
“SYSTEM EFFECTS” 0“Sys Chorus” page.
NOTE
In the [MENU] 0[SCENE EDIT] 0[ZONE EDIT] 0“INTERNAL”
page, if the“Cho Send (chorus send)” value is set to “0,”no chorus/
delay eect is applied. Also, depending on the settings of the Scene,
there might be cases in which turning the knob does not apply
an eect. For details, refer to“Making Detailed Settings for Tones”
(p. 23).
Modifying the Sound in Real Time
(WHEEL1/2)
By turning wheel 1 or 2 while playing the keyboard you can modify
the sound in real time. By default, wheel 1 applies a pitch bend eect
(pitch change) and wheel 2 applies a modulation eect (vibrato).
You can freely change the eects that are applied by wheels 1/2. For
details, refer to “Assigning the Function of Each Controller” (p. 20).
Adding Liveliness to the Sound
(COMPRESSOR)
Switching on the Compressor suppresses dierences in volume for a
more consistent sound.
21
1. Press the [COMPRESSOR] button, getting its
indicator to light.
Compressor will alternately turn on/o each time you press the
[COMPRESSOR] button.
2. To cancel this function, press the [COMPRESSOR]
button once more, extinguishing the indicator.
NOTE
Sounds may become distorted with certain tones.
MEMO
5You are free to edit the compressor settings. For details, refer to
“Making Detailed Settings for Tones”(p. 23).
5If you press the [SHIFT]+[COMPRESSOR] buttons, the compressor
settings screen appears.

16
Performance
Adjusting the Character of the Sound
(TONE COLOR)
Turning the [TONE COLOR] knob will modify an aspect of the sound,
such as its character or acoustic image.
1
1. Turn the [TONE COLOR] knob.
The eect assigned to the knob is applied.
You can assign one or the other of the following eects to the
[TONE COLOR] knob.
Parameter Explanation
Stereo Width
If the sound is being output in stereo, turning the knob to
the left gradually transforms the audio output to mono,
and turning the knob to the right transforms it to stereo.
Depending on your performing situation, the mono sound
might be better for listening.
EQ
This lets you adjust the EQ using a single knob. Turning
the knob to the left boosts the mid-frequency region, and
turning the knob to the right boosts the high-frequency
and low-frequency regions. Adjusting this appropriately for
your performing situation might make the sound better for
listening.
MEMO
The Tone Color assignment is specied in [MENU] 0[SCENE EDIT]
0[ZONE SOUND] 0TONE COLOR. If you want to save the setting,
save the Scene (p. 23).
Applying Various Eects to the Sound
(MFX)
In addition to chorus (p. 15) and reverb (p. 14), the RD-88 lets
you apply a “multi-eect.”The multi-eect lets you choose from a
variety of eect types including distortion and rotary.
With the factory settings, an eect appropriate for each tone is
assigned.
1
1. Turn the [MFX] knob to adjust the eect.
The multi-eect specied for the selected tone is applied.
MEMO
The eect is applied to the MFX of the currently selected zone.
The value that changes when you turn the knob is pre-specied
according to the type. For some eect types, it might be dicult to
notice the eect.
If the tone’s MFX setting is set to “Thru,”no eect is applied.
MFX settings can also be specied for individual Scenes. For details,
refer to“Parameter Guide”(PDF).

17
Performance
Adjusting the Levels of Each Frequency
Range (EQUALIZER)
The RD-88 is equipped with an equalizer.
You can use the EQ [LOW] knob, [MID] knob, and [HIGH] knob to
adjust the level of each frequency range.
NOTE
Equalization is applied to the overall sound output from the OUTPUT
jacks.
1. Press the [EQ ADJUST] button.
1
The button is lit, and the knob functions change as follows.
5[TONE COLOR] knob 0EQ [LOW] knob
5[MFX] knob 0EQ [MID] knob
5[CHORUS/DELAY] knob 0EQ [HIGH] knob
2. Turn the knobs to adjust the levels in each range.
Turning the EQUALIZER [LOW], [MID], or [HIGH] knobs toward the
left will decrease the level of the corresponding range; turning the
knobs toward the right will increase the level.
MEMO
In MENU 0SYSTEM EFFECTS 0Master EQ you can make detailed
EQ settings.
NOTE
5Sounds may be distorted with certain knob settings. If this occurs,
adjust the Input Gain on the “Master EQ” screen.
5EQ settings are preserved even if you change Scenes, but are lost if
you turn the power o. If you want to save the EQ settings, execute
“Saving the System Eects (Write)”(p. 23).
Disabling the Buttons (Panel Lock)
The panel lock function allows you to temporarily disable the buttons
so that their settings will not be accidentally changed, for example
while you’re on stage.
1
1. Long press the [PANEL LOCK] button.
The panel will be locked, and the screen shown below will appear.
When you once again long-press the [PANEL LOCK] button, panel
lock is defeated.
MEMO
You can operate the knobs and wheels even when the panel is
locked.

18
Using the Convenient Functions in Performances
Registering Frequently-Used Sounds
(Scenes) to Buttons (FAVORITE)
“Favorite” is a function that lets you register frequently-used sounds
(Scenes) so that they can be recalled by a single button.
The Favorite registers the number of the Scene.
Favorite Bank 9
Favorite Bank 0
Favorite 0–9
MEMO
5With Favorites 0–9 as one set, you can register a total of ten sets in
the Favorite banks.
5Use the ten buttons [0]–[9] to recall or register Scenes.
NOTE
If you’re editing a Scene, save that Scene rst before you register it as
a Favorite.
Registering a Favorite
1. Select the Scene that you want to register.
2. Press the FAVORITE [BANK] button to make the
indicator light.
3. Press a [0]–[9] button to select the registration-
destination bank.
4. Long-press the FAVORITE [ON] button to make the
[0]–[9] buttons blink.
5. While continuing to hold down the FAVORITE [ON]
button, press the [0]–[9] button in which you want
to register the selected scene.
The currently selected Scene is registered to that button.
Recalling a Favorite
1. Press the FAVORITE [ON] button to make the
indicator light.
The [0]–[9] buttons act as Favorite select buttons.
2. Press a [0]–[9] button to select a Favorite.
If you press a button in which a Favorite has not yet been
registered, the screen indicates “Unregistered!”
Switching the Favorite Bank
1. Press the FAVORITE [BANK] button to make the
indicator light.
The button ([0]–[9]) corresponding to the currently selected bank
blinks.
2. Press a [0]–[9] button to select a bank.
Viewing the Favorite List
1. Hold down the [SHIFT] button and press the
FAVORITE [ON] button.
The Favorite function turns on, and a list of the Scenes registered
as favorites is displayed.
MEMO
Use the cursor [ ] [ ] buttons to switch Scenes, and use the
cursor [<] [>] buttons to switch banks. You can also use the [0]–[9]
buttons to switch Scenes.
2. Press the [EXIT] button to return to the previous
screen.
Deleting a Favorite
1. Hold down the [SHIFT] button and press the
FAVORITE [ON] button.
The Favorite function turns on, and a list of the Scenes registered
as favorites is displayed.
2. Use the cursor [ ] [ ] buttons to select the favorite
that you want to delete.
3. Hold down the [SHIFT] button and press the [EXIT]
button.
A conrmation message appears.
If you decide to cancel, press the [EXIT] button.
4. To execute, use the cursor [>] buttons to select “OK,”
and then press the [ENTER] button.
When deletion is complete, the screen indicates "Delete."
5. Press the [EXIT] button to return to the previous
screen.

19
Using the Convenient Functions in Performances
Playing Rhythm
The RD-88 features internal drum patterns complementing Jazz,
Rock, and other various musical genres. These drum patterns are
referred to as “Rhythms.”
12 3
1. Press the [SELECT] button to make the button
indicator light.
The SONG/RHYTHM screen will appear.
2. If the SONG screen appears, press the [SELECT]
button once again to switch to the RHYTHM screen.
Each time you press the [SELECT] button, you’ll alternate between
the SONG screen and the RHYTHM screen.
3. Press the [ ] button so it’s lit.
The rhythm will begin sounding.
When you press the [ ] button once again to turn o its
light, the rhythm will stop.
MEMO
If you press the [SELECT] button to switch to the SONG screen while a
rhythm is playing, the rhythm will stop.
Changing Rhythm Tempos
1. In the RHYTHM screen, press the cursor button to
move the cursor to the tempo indication in the top
line of the screen.
2. Use the [DEC] [INC] buttons to change the tempo.
The Rhythm are played at the selected tempo.
Changing the Rhythm Pattern
You can select the way a Rhythm is played (the pattern) to match a
variety of dierent musical genres.
1. In the RHYTHM screen, use the cursor buttons to
move the cursor to the rhythm number shown in
the screen.
2. Use the [DEC] [INC] buttons to change the patterns.
The rhythm’s pattern will change.
3. To stop the rhythm, press the [ ] button so its
indicator is o.

20
Using the Convenient Functions in Performances
Playing Songs
You can copy an audio le (MP3 or WAV) from your computer to a
USB ash drive, and perform on the RD-88 while that audio le plays
back.
1. Format your USB ash drive on the RD-88.
“Formatting a USB Flash Drive (FORMAT USB MEMORY)” (p. 27)
MEMO
5Use a commercially available USB ash drive. However, we cannot
guarantee operation with all commercially available ash drives.
5We recommend that you use single-byte alphanumeric characters
for the le name. If you use double-byte characters, the le name
will not be shown correctly in the display.
2. Copy the audio le into the “SONG LIST” folder.
Audio les that can be played
MP3
Format MPEG-1 audio layer 3
Sampling Frequency 48 kHz
Bit rate 32/40/48/56/64/80/96/112/128/160/
192/224/256/320 kbps, VBR (Variable Bit Rate)
WAV
Sampling Frequency 48 kHz
Bit Depth 16/24-bit
* For both MP3 and WAV, the only sampling frequency supported
is 48 kHz. If your le has a sampling frequency of other than
48 kHz, use software on your computer to convert it to 48 kHz
beforehand.
3. Connect the USB ash drive to the USB MEMORY
port of the RD-88.
4. Press the [SELECT] button to make the button
indicator light.
The SONG/RHYTHM screen will appear.
5. Press the [SELECT] button to access the SONG
screen.
Each time you press the [SELECT] button, you’ll alternate between
the SONG screen and the RHYTHM screen.
6. Move the cursor to the song number and use the
[DEC] [INC] buttons to select a song.
7. To play the song, press the [ ] button to make
it light.
When you press the [ ] button to turn o its light, the song
will stop playing.
MEMO
Move the cursor to“Volume”and use the [DEC] [INC] buttons to
adjust the volume of the song.
If you want to save the volume setting, execute the System Write
operation (p. 27).
Assigning the Function of Each Controller
You can change the parameters that are controlled by the [1]–[8]
knobs, WHEEL 1/2, and pedals FC1/FC2.
1. Press the [MENU] button.
2. Use the cursor [ ] [ ] buttons to select “SYSTEM,”
and then press the [ENTER] button.
3. Use the cursor [ ] [ ] buttons to select “ASSIGN” and
then press the [ENTER] button.
4. Use the cursor [<] [>] buttons to select the
controller whose assignment you want to change.
5. Use the cursor [ ] [ ] buttons to select a parameter,
and use the [DEC] [INC] buttons to change its value.
For details, refer to“Parameter Guide” (PDF).
6. If you want to save the setting, execute the System
Write operation.
“Saving the System Settings (System Write)” (p. 27)
MEMO
The settings of these controllers can be specied and remembered
individually for each Scene. This is convenient when you want to
switch the controller assignments for each sound (Scene). In the
Scene edit parameters, change each controller’s Source from System
to Scene. For details, refer to “Parameter Guide”(PDF).
Using the [ONE TOUCH PIANO] Button
With the factory settings, pressing the [ONE TOUCH PIANO] button
recalls the piano sound of Scene 001.
Alternatively, you can assign a favorite Scene to the [ONE TOUCH
PIANO] button by using the following procedure. The Scene assigned
to the [ONE TOUCH PIANO] button is the Scene that is rst selected at
start-up.
1. Select a favorite Scene.
2. Hold down the [WRITE] button and press the [ONE
TOUCH PIANO] button.
The current settings are saved to the [ONE TOUCH PIANO] button.

21
Using the Convenient Functions in Performances
Using the RD-88 as a Master Keyboard
You can control the external MIDI device from the RD-88.
The RD-88 normally transmits note messages from the MIDI OUT
connector, but you can make settings to control an external device
so that not only note messages, but a variety of settings can be
controlled on your external MIDI device.
You can control internal and external sound generators
independently.
What’s MIDI?
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is a standard specication
that allows musical data to be exchanged between electronic musical
instruments and computers. By using a MIDI cable to connect devices
that have MIDI connectors, you can create an ensemble in which
a single MIDI keyboard can play multiple instruments, or change
settings automatically as the song progresses.
MIDI OUT connector
MIDI messages are transmitted from these connectors to external
MIDI devices. The RD-88’s MIDI OUT connectors are used for sending
the performance data of the controller section.
External MIDI device
Settings for Controlling an External Sound
Module
Settings for controlling an external MIDI sound module can be made
for each zone (UP1/UP2/LOW) of the Scene. From one RD-88 you
can layer the internal sounds with the sounds of an external sound
module, or control them separately.
Since these settings can be individually saved for each Scene, you can
instantly recall control settings for the internal sound generator and
an external sound module simply by switching Scenes.
1. Press the [EXT CTRL SETTING] button.
A screen for editing the external sound module control settings
appears.
MEMO
You can access the same screen from the MENU 0SCENE EDIT
0ZONE EDIT screen by pressing the cursor [>] button.
2. Use Scene category buttons [0], [1], and [2] to select
the zone whose settings you want to edit.
The button is lit, and the selected zone is shown in the upper right
of the screen.
Button Zone
0UP1
1UP2
2LOW
NOTE
If the zone you’re editing is not enabled (on), control messages are
not output. Use Scene category buttons [3], [4], and [5] to turn on
the zones that you want to use.
Button Zone
3UP1
4UP2
5LOW
3. Use the cursor [ ] [ ] buttons to select the
parameter that you want to edit, and use the [DEC]
[INC] buttons to edit the value.
Parameter Value Explanation
TxMode
ON
Normally, this setting is used. The same
MIDI messages are transmitted to the
RD-88’s internal sound generator and
to the external MIDI device. Messages
that select tones and switch banks
(bank select, program change) use the
settings of the tone that is selected for
that zone.
INT
Use this setting if you don’t want MIDI
messages of a specic zone to be
transmitted to an external MIDI device.
Choose this INT setting if you want to
play only the internal sounds of the
RD-88.
EXT
Choose this setting if you want to use
the RD-88 as a master keyboard to
control an external MIDI device.
Ext Port ALL, MIDI, USB
Species the connector that transmits
control messages. If this is“ALL,”
messages are transmitted both from
the MIDI OUT connector and from the
USB port.
Ext Ch 1–16 Species the MIDI transmit channel.
Ext MSB OFF, 0–127 Species the numerical value of the
program number and the bank select
MSB/LSB messages that select sounds
on an external MIDI device.
Ext LSB
Ext PC OFF, 1–128
MEMO
For other parameters and details about them, refer to "Parameter
Guide" (PDF).
4. To save the settings, execute the Scene write
operation.
Master keyboard settings are saved individually for each Scene.
&“Saving a Scene (Write)”(p. 23)