Roland VXpanded VS-880 User manual

3MIDI 1 2 4 1 2 3 4
L
IN
OUT IN OUT THRU
RFOOT
SWITCH POWER
A B SCSI
DIGITAL(5,6)
PHONES
AUX SEND
INPUT B
INPUT A
MASTER OUTMASTER OUT
CONDITION MARKER#
MASTER INPUT TRACK AUX
TIMETIME
48
24
4
0dB
1122
LOOP
NEXT
MARKER
PREVIOUS TAP
CLEAR
AUTO PUNCH
LOC 1/ LOC 2 / LOC 3/ LOC 4/ SCRUB
PREVIEW
NO CURSOR
CANCEL ENTER
FROMTO
DISPLAY
12345
67890
1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ CLEAR
TIME VALUE
SCENE
UNDONUMERICS
Pre Level
Post Level
Play List
Amp Profile
TRACK SYSTEMEFFECT
Track
-Move
Copy
-Xchg
-Insert
-Cut
-Erase
Time Comp Exp.
EFFECT-2
-1Marker
Locate
Loop
A.Punch I O
System
MIDI
Sync
Scene
DISK
Song Select
-Name
-New
-Copy
-Erase
-Optimize Drive Select
-Initialize
DAT
-Recover
Backup
LOCATORSONG
Fader Pan
STOP PLAY RECFFZERO REW
VARI PITCH
LOCATOR
EDIT CONDITION PLAY
SONG TOPSTORE SONG END SHUT EJECT RESTART
DISK
MIDI/
5 6 7 8
YES
SHIFT
PARAMETER
5 6 7 8
PAN
C
TRACK MIX
STATUS
SEL
a
1
Input BUSS
Input BUSS
V.Track
INPUT TRACK
INPUT MIX
SOLO
AUX SEND
PEAK
(dB)
REC
PLAY
MUTE
EQ
BUSS Send
Channel Link
AUX Send
SOURCE
Master Out
6
4
0
4
8
12
18
24
36
(dB)
6
4
0
4
8
12
18
24
36
BUSS BUSS BUSS BUSSAUX
V.Track EQ Low EQ Mid EQ Hi Aux Send
SELECT
EFFECT-1 EFFECT -2
10
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
bAUX
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
cAUX
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
dAUX
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
AUX SEND
2PEAK
10 3PEAK 10 4
0
PEAK
10
MASTER
CH EDIT CH EDIT EDIT
INPUT SENS PHONES MIXER MODE
1 2
CH EDIT CH EDIT
3 4
CH EDIT CH EDIT
5 6
CH EDIT CH EDIT
7 8
L R L R L R L R L R L R L R L R
4 50dBm 4 50dBm 4 50dBm 4 50dBm 0 10
6dB
EFFECT-2
-1
EFFECT-2
-1
®
Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS” (p. 2), “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (p. 3), and “IMPORTANT
NOTES” (p. 11). 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, this manual should be read
in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient
reference.
Copyright © 1996 ROLAND CORPORATION
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in
any form without the written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION.

CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS QUVRIR
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to
constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the product.
INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING - When using electric products, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:
Read all the instructions before using the product.
Do not use this product near water — for example, near a
bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, in a wet basement, or near
a swimming pool, or the like.
This product should be used only with a cart or stand that is
recommended by the manufacturer.
This product, either alone or in combination with an amplifier
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 consult an
audiologist.
The product should be located so that its location or position
does not interfere with its proper ventilation.
The product should be located away from heat sources such
as radiators, heat registers, or other products that produce
heat.
The product should be connected to a power supply only of
the type described in the operating instructions or as marked
on the product.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
The power-supply cord of the product should be unplugged
from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time.
Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids
are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.
The product should be serviced by qualified service
personnel when:
The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or
Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled onto the
product; or
The product has been exposed to rain; or
The product does not appear to operate normally or
exhibits a marked change in performance; or
The product has been dropped, or the enclosure
damaged.
Do not attempt to service the product beyond that described
in the user-maintenance instructions. All other servicing
should be referred to qualified service personnel.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This product must be grounded. If it should malfunction or breakdown, grounding provides a path of least resistance for
electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock.
This product is equipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be
plugged into an appropriate outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
DANGER: Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric shock. Check with a
qualified electrician or serviceman if you are in doubt as to whether the product is properly grounded.
Do not modify the plug provided with the product — if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified
electrician.
For the USA
The product which is equipped with a THREE WIRE GROUNDING TYPE LINE PLUG must be grounded.
WARNING:
IMPORTANT:
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying
the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured GREEN-AND-YELLOW must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked by the
letter E or by the safety earth symbol or coloured GREEN or GREEN-AND-YELLOW.
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.
THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED
THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.
GREEN-AND-YELLOW: EARTH, BLUE: NEUTRAL, BROWN: LIVE
For the U.K.

●Before using this unit, make sure to read the
instructions below, and the OwnerÕs Manual.
.........................................................................................................
●Do not open or perform any internal modifications
on the unit. (The only exception would be where
Quick Start manual provides specific instructions
which should be followed in order to put in place
user-installable options; see p. 3.)
.........................................................................................................
●Make sure you always have the unit placed so it is
level and sure to remain stable. Never place it on
stands that could wobble, or on inclined surfaces.
.........................................................................................................
●Avoid damaging the power cord. Do not bend it
excessively, step on it, place heavy objects on it, etc.
A damaged cord can easily become a shock or fire
hazard. Never use a power cord after it has been
damaged.
.........................................................................................................
●In households with small children, an adult should
provide supervision until the child is capable of
following all the rules essential for the safe opera-
tion of the unit.
.........................................................................................................
●Protect the unit from strong impact.
(Do not drop it!)
.........................................................................................................
●Do not force the unitÕs power-supply cord to share
an outlet with an unreasonable number of other
devices. Be especially careful when using exten-
sion cordsÑthe total power used by all devices
you have connected to the extension cordÕs 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.
.........................................................................................................
●Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult with
your dealer, or qualified Roland service personnel.
●Always turn the unit off and unplug the power
cord before attempting installation of the Hard
disk drive unit (HDP88 series) or Effect expansion
board VS8F-1.
●Always grasp only the plug on the power-supply
cord when plugging into, or unplugging from an
outlet.
.........................................................................................................
●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.
.........................................................................................................
●Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on
the unit.
.........................................................................................................
●Never handle the power cord or its plugs with wet
hands when plugging into, or unplugging from, an
outlet or this unit.
.........................................................................................................
●Before moving the unit, disconnect the power plug
from the outlet, and pull out all cords from exter-
nal devices.
.........................................................................................................
●Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and
unplug the power cord from the outlet.
.........................................................................................................
●Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning
in your area, pull the plug on the power cord out
of the outlet.
.........................................................................................................
●When installing the Hard disk drive unit (HDP88
series) or Effect expansion board VS8F-1, remove
only the specified screws.
3
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 effects 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 specific 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 specific 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 specific 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.

Thank you for purchasing the Roland VS-880 V-XPANDED Digital Studio Workstation or the VS-
880-S1 System Expansion Kit.
The VS-880 V-XPANDED is a revolution in home studio equipment that makes a cutting-edge stu-
dio environment available to the musician. Disk recorder, digital mixer, and multi effects are
brought together in a unified system that allows the entire process from recording to mixdown,
effects and output to PA equipment to take place entirely in the digital domain.
The VS-880-S1 is an expansion kit that enhances the system software of the VS-880 that you have
been using to full V-XPANDED functionality. In addition to the superb digital studio functionality
that you have already been enjoying, you will now be able to experience even more powerful func-
tions and even easier operation.
The documentation for VS-880 V-XPANDED consists of two manuals: ÒQuick StartÓ and ÒOwnerÕs
ManualÓ (this document). If you are using the VS-880 for the first time, please read ÒQuick StartÓ
first.
About the package contents
■If you purchased the VS-880 V-XPANDED
The VS-880 V-XPANDED package includes the following items. Make sure that you have all the
items.
• VS-880
• Power cable
• Quick Start
• Owner’s Manual (this manual)
• VS8F-1 Preset Patch List
• Leaflet “Notes when using a Zip drive”
• V-XPANDED sticker
■If you purchased the VS-880-S1
The VS-880-S1 package includes the following items. Make sure that you have all the items.
• VS-880-S1 (Zip disk)
• Expanding the functionality of the VS-880
• Owner’s Manual (this manual)
• VS8F-1 Preset Patch List
• V-XPANDED sticker
How this manual is organized
This manual is organized as follows.
■Chapter 1 Trying out the expanded functions
This chapter provides some simple examples which explain the operation of the expanded VS-880.
If you have purchased the VS-880-S1, read this first to learn which functions are added by the V-
XPANDED upgrade.
If you purchased the VS-880 V-XPANDED, read the separate ÒQuick StartÓ first.
■Chapter 2 Before you start (VS-880 terminology)
This chapter explains basic concepts that you will need to understand in order to use the VS-880.
It also explains various terms that you should know.
■Chapter 3 Basic operation (as a replacement for a
tape MTR)
This chapter explains the actual steps in the procedure of creating a master tape.
Introduction
4

■Chapter 4 Editing a recorded performance (track
editing)
This chapter explains the procedure for Òediting sound,Ó something which was not possible on
conventional tape MTR units.
■Chapter 5 Use with MIDI devices
This chapter explains the procedures for using the VS-880 in conjunction with MIDI devices. Read
this chapter when you wish to use the VS-880 in synchronization with other MIDI devices.
■Chapter 6 Use with a Zip drive
This chapter explains the procedures for using the VS-880 with a Zip drive. Read this chapter when
you wish to use a Zip drive to record a performance. This chapter also explains how to use the VS-
880 with a hard disk or magneto-optical disk.
■Chapter 7 Use with a DAT recorder
This chapter explains the procedures for using the VS-880 in conjunction with a DAT recorder.
Read this chapter when you wish to save your performance on a DAT recorder.
■Chapter 8 Using the internal effects
This chapter explains the operating procedures when a VS8F-1 effect expansion board is installed.
Read the VS8S-1 ownerÕs manual in conjunction with this chapter.
■Chapter 9 Other convenient functions
This chapter explains operation of functions which were not discussed in earlier chapters, such as
sounding the metronome during recording, or when a foot switch is connected.
■Chapter 10 Overall settings and status checking
This chapter explains how to make the settings which affect the overall operation of the VS-880.
■Chapter 11 Taking advantage of the VS-880 (ideas
and examples)
This chapter combines some of the functions discussed in earlier chapters, and gives some actual
examples of how you can take advantage of the VS-880.
■Appendices
This chapter contains material which will help you make the best use of the VS-880, such as
ÒTroubleshootingÓ and ÒError message list.Ó
Introduction
5

Main features .................................................................................................................. 10
Important notes .............................................................................................................. 11
Front and rear panels ..................................................................................................... 13
Mixer section .......................................................................................................................................... 13
Recorder section ..................................................................................................................................... 14
Display section ....................................................................................................................................... 15
Rear panel ............................................................................................................................................... 16
Chapter 1 Trying out the expanded functions
Mixer-related .................................................................................................................. 17
Using auto mix ....................................................................................................................................... 17
Using the 3-band equalizer in INPUT MIX/TRACK MIX .............................................................. 20
Mixing in a stereo source (Stereo In) ................................................................................................... 21
Adjusting the level of each track (Track Level) ................................................................................. 21
Causing top panel fader and pan knob operations to take effect immediately ............................ 21
Recorder related functions ............................................................................................. 22
When the Recording mode is set to Mastering .................................................................................. 22
When a digital signal with emphasis is input ................................................................................... 22
Creating a master tape which disables digital copying ................................................................... 22
Effect related .................................................................................................................. 23
Newly added preset patches ................................................................................................................ 23
Newly added algorithms ...................................................................................................................... 23
Adjusting the send level and balance for all effects .......................................................................... 33
Inserting an effect ................................................................................................................................... 34
Display related ................................................................................................................ 37
Holding the level meter peaks ............................................................................................................. 37
Checking the remaining disk capacity ................................................................................................ 37
Disk drive related ............................................................................................................ 38
Checking the reliability of a disk ............................................................................................................... 38
Checking that a disk is not damaged .................................................................................................. 38
Synchronization related .................................................................................................. 40
Assign mark points according to the tempo ...................................................................................... 40
When using the sync track ................................................................................................................... 40
Using the tempo map ............................................................................................................................ 42
Adding an offset to the sync track/tempo map ................................................................................ 42
MIDI related .................................................................................................................... 43
Using program change messages to select scenes ............................................................................ 43
Using program change messages to select effects ............................................................................. 43
Using control change messages to control effects ............................................................................ 43
Other .............................................................................................................................. 44
Using the numeric keys ([NUMERICS]) ............................................................................................. 44
Holding the function of [SHIFT] (Shift Lock) .................................................................................... 44
Easy time adjustment ............................................................................................................................ 45
Chapter 2 Before you start (VS-880 terminology)
Sources, tracks, and channels ....................................................................................... 46
Doing everything in the digital domain (Digital Studio Workstation) ............................... 46
Signal flow (busses) ....................................................................................................... 46
Where a performance is recorded (Song) ...................................................................... 47
Mixer section .................................................................................................................. 48
About mixer modes ............................................................................................................................... 48
Switching the mixer mode .................................................................................................................... 51
Recording the current condition of the mixer (Scene) ...................................................................... 51
Recorder section ............................................................................................................ 53
Differences with a tape-type MTR ...................................................................................................... 53
Number of tracks that can be recorded/played simultaneously ................................................... 53
Virtual tracks provided for each track (V-tracks) ............................................................................. 53
Effects section ................................................................................................................ 54
About the effect expansion board (VS8F-1) ....................................................................................... 54
VS-880 operation ........................................................................................................... 54
How operations are organized (Conditions) ..................................................................................... 54
Switching conditions ............................................................................................................................. 54
Contents
6

Selecting the operation menu .............................................................................................................. 55
Selecting parameters ............................................................................................................................. 55
Modifying the value of settings ........................................................................................................... 55
Executing an operation ........................................................................................................................ 55
Switching the track status (Track Status) ........................................................................................... 55
Changing the current time .................................................................................................................... 56
Storing a time location, method 1 (Locate Point) ............................................................57
Storing a time location .......................................................................................................................... 57
Moving to a stored time location ......................................................................................................... 58
Modifying a stored time location ........................................................................................................ 58
Deleting a stored time location ............................................................................................................ 58
Storing a time location, method 2 (Mark Points) ............................................................ 59
Marking a time location ........................................................................................................................ 59
Moving to a marked time location ...................................................................................................... 59
Modifying a marked time location ...................................................................................................... 60
Clearing a mark ...................................................................................................................................... 60
Chapter 3 Basic operation (as a replacement for a tape MTR)
Before you begin ............................................................................................................ 61
When you turn the power on .............................................................................................................. 61
Listening to the demo song ............................................................................................ 61
Listening to the variations of the demo song .................................................................................... 61
Making a new recording ................................................................................................. 62
Specifying the recording mode (Song New) ...................................................................................... 62
Naming the song (Song Name) ............................................................................................................ 62
General procedure for multitrack recording .................................................................... 63
Connect the instruments ....................................................................................................................... 63
Record a performance onto a track ..................................................................................................... 63
Switching V-tracks ................................................................................................................................. 63
Recording additional tracks while listening to the performance (Overdubbing) ........................ 64
Re-recording only your mistakes (Punch-in/out) ............................................................................ 64
Specify beforehand the location for re-recording (Auto punch-in) ................................................ 65
Repeatedly recording over the same area (Loop recording) ........................................................... 66
Combining the performances of two or more tracks into another track (Track bouncing) ........ 67
Creating a master tape .......................................................................................................................... 67
Digital recording ............................................................................................................. 72
Concerning copyright ........................................................................................................................... 72
About SCMS ........................................................................................................................................... 72
Connecting digital devices ................................................................................................................... 72
Matching the sampling frequency ....................................................................................................... 72
Selecting digital input as the source .................................................................................................... 73
When digital recording is not possible ... ........................................................................................... 73
Before you finish operations ........................................................................................... 74
Saving the performance to disk (Song Store) ..................................................................................... 74
Preventing accidental erasure of your performance (Song Protect) ............................................... 74
Selecting a song (Song Select) .............................................................................................................. 75
Turning the power off (Shut Down) ................................................................................................... 75
Re-starting the VS-880 ................................................................................................... 75
Chapter 4 Editing a recorded performance (track editing)
What is editing? .............................................................................................................. 76
Finding a desired location (Preview) ...............................................................................76
Using [TO] and [FROM] ....................................................................................................................... 76
Scrub playback ([SCRUB]) .................................................................................................................... 76
Basic procedure ............................................................................................................. 77
Re-using part of the performance (Copy) ....................................................................... 78
Modifying the organization of the performance (Move) .................................................. 79
Erasing part of a performance (Erase) ........................................................................... 81
Exchanging performance data between tracks (Exchange) ........................................... 81
Inserting blank space into a performance (Insert) .......................................................... 82
Deleting a portion of a performance (Cut) ...................................................................... 83
Modifying the playback time of the performance (Time compression/expansion) .......... 84
Contents
7

Chapter 5 Use with MIDI devices
About MIDI ..................................................................................................................... 85
What is MIDI .......................................................................................................................................... 85
MIDI connectors ..................................................................................................................................... 85
MIDI channels ........................................................................................................................................ 85
MIDI messages ....................................................................................................................................... 85
MIDI implementation chart .................................................................................................................. 85
Using MIDI to switch the track status ............................................................................. 86
Synchronizing with a MIDI sequencer ............................................................................ 86
Using MTC .............................................................................................................................................. 86
Using the tempo map ............................................................................................................................ 89
Using the sync track .............................................................................................................................. 91
When you experience problems with synchronization ................................................... 92
Chapter 6 Use with a Zip drive
Connecting a Zip drive ................................................................................................... 93
Initializing the disk (Drive Initialize) .................................................................................93
Select the Zip drive as the recording destination (Drive Select) ..................................... 93
Saving performance data on a Zip disk (Song Copy) ..................................................... 94
Saving on a single disk (Playable) ....................................................................................................... 94
When the data cannot be saved on a single disk (Archive) ............................................................. 95
If you have problems saving the data ............................................................................. 96
Chapter 7 Use with a DAT recorder (DAT backup)
Saving performance data to a DAT recorder (Backup) .................................................. 97
Loading performance data from a DAT recorder (Recover) ............................................98
Checking the names of the performance data that was saved (Name) ......................................... 99
Checking the storage status of performance data that was saved (Verify) ................................... 99
Chapter 8 Using the internal effects
Examples of how the effects can be used .................................................................... 100
Applying reverb to a recorded performance (Loop) ...................................................................... 100
Applying reverb as you record (Loop) ............................................................................................. 102
Applying a vocoder while you record (Insert) ................................................................................ 104
Applying reverb while bouncing tracks (Loop) .............................................................................. 106
If the effect does not sound as you expect ................................................................... 108
Chapter 9 Other convenient functions
Sounding the metronome ............................................................................................. 109
Using an external MIDI sound source to play the metronome ..................................................... 109
Using a foot switch to playback/stop ............................................................................ 110
Stopping automatically (Marker stop) ........................................................................... 110
Changing the pitch during playback (Vari-pitch) ........................................................... 111
Listening only to a specific channel (Solo) ................................................................... 111
Simultaneously adjusting a stereo source (Channel Link) ........................................... 112
Undoing a recording or editing operation ..................................................................... 112
Recording/editing operations which can be undone (Undo) ....................................................... 112
Canceling the last-performed Undo (Redo) ..................................................................................... 113
Canceling only the last-performed operation .................................................................................. 113
When the disk has little remaining space ..................................................................... 113
Deleting only unneeded performance data (Song Optimize) ....................................................... 113
Deleting one song of performance data (Song Erase) .................................................................... 113
Chapter 10 Overall settings and status checking
If the display area is difficult to read (Contrast) ............................................................ 114
Switching the contents of the display (Bar Display) ..................................................... 114
Displaying measures/beats .......................................................................................... 115
Checking the size of a recorded performance .............................................................. 115
Restoring the mixer settings to the initial state ............................................................. 116
If there is no internal hard disk ..................................................................................... 116
Contents
8

Chapter 11 Taking advantage of the VS-880 (ideas and examples)
Recording multiple sources to one track ...................................................................... 117
Collecting just the sections that you like ....................................................................... 118
Copying an 8-track MTR performance to the VS-880 .................................................. 119
Controlling the mixer from a MIDI sequencer ............................................................... 120
Operating the VS-880 from another device (MMC) ...................................................... 122
Synchronizing the operation of two VS-880 units .......................................................................... 122
Operating the VS-880 from an MMC-compatible device .............................................. 125
If you have problems with synchronization .................................................................................... 126
Using external effect units ............................................................................................ 127
Applying an effect during playback ................................................................................................. 127
Applying an effect while you re-record ........................................................................................... 127
Appendices
Using an external disk drive (About SCSI) ................................................................... 130
Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................ 132
Error messages ............................................................................................................ 134
Special key operations ................................................................................................. 136
Parameter list ............................................................................................................... 138
MIDI implementation chart ........................................................................................... 143
Mixer section block diagram ......................................................................................... 144
Glossary ....................................................................................................................... 145
Specifications ............................................................................................................... 146
About the V-XPANDED sticker ..................................................................................... 147
Index ............................................................................................................................. 149
* Iomega is a registered trademark of Iomega Corporation.
* Zip is a trademark of Iomega Corporation.
*All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective owners.
Contents
9

■Digital audio workstation
The digital disk recorder section provides 8 tracks, and
allows four tracks to be recorded simultaneously. Each
track has eight virtual tracks (V-tracks), allowing a total
maximum of 64 tracks to be recorded. This means that you
can use convenient techniques such as recording numerous
takes of guitar solos, vocals, or chorus.
Editing operations such as copy, move and erase which
were impossible for a tape MTR can be easily accomplished.
For example, a four-measure drum pattern that was record-
ed can be repeated several times as a break-beat. Or, you
might place the same chorus at the beginning and end of a
song.
The VS-880 uses non-destructive editing, a method unique
to disk recorders. Previously performed recording or edit-
ing operations can be undone up to 999 steps backward (the
Undo/Redo function).
Up to eight sets of all mixer settings (scenes) can be stored
for each song. When you wish to adjust the balance during
mixdown, or to compare effect settings, you can easily recall
the previous settings.
For each song, up to 32 time locations (locate points) can be
stored. If you register times such as the end of the introduc-
tion or the beginning of a break, you will be able to jump
immediately to desired points in a song without having to
fast-forward or rewind.
Up to 1000 time locations in each song can be marked (mark
points). It is useful to place marks at the beginning of each
measure, or at locations that you wish to listen to.
A sync track can be created from mark points that were
assigned along with the tempo. By transmitting MIDI clock
messages according to the sync track, you can easily syn-
chronize the VS-880 with a MIDI sequencer.
Time-based movements of channel faders and pan etc. can
be recorded (auto mix). With no additional equipment, the
VS-880 can perform mixing operations such as fade in and
fade out.
■Easy-to-operate controls
The VS-880 can be operated as easily as conventional analog
multi-track recorders. You will be able to enjoy the advan-
tages of digital recording from the day that you purchase it.
The large LCD screen provides visual confirmation of many
settings at once. In particular, the bar display provides a
graphical indication of the level meter, pan and fader set-
tings, and the track record status.
■A full complement of connectors
Four analog audio inputs are provided, and you have the
choice of using either 1/4Ó phone jacks or RCA phono type
jacks. The input sensitivity of each jack can be adjusted from
line level (+4 dBm) to mic level (-50 dBm). For output, RCA
phono type master out jacks (stereo) and AUX send jacks
(two output) are provided.
A SCSI connector is standard, allowing you to connect
external disk drives such as hard disks or removable disks.
Coaxial type digital I/O connectors are provided, allowing
recording/playback of digital audio with another digital
audio device (CD player, DAT recorder, MD recorder, etc.)
MIDI connectors (IN, OUT/THRU) allow MIDI messages to
be transmitted and received. The VS-880 can be used with a
MIDI sequencer for compu-mix, or synchronized with a
MIDI sequencer.
In addition to the tracks which record the audio signals, the
VS-880 has a sync track which can record MIDI Clock data.
By using this sync track, the VS-880 can be synchronized
even with a MIDI sequencer which does not implement
MTC (MIDI Time Code) or MMC (MIDI Machine Control).
■A full array of options
If an HDP-88 series hard disk (2.5 inch) is installed internal-
ly, the VS-880 will be a self-contained, compact, and
portable recording system. In contrast to when external disk
drives are used, there will be no possibility of problems
resulting from faulty connections. We recommend that you
install an internal hard disk when using the VS-880.
If a VS8F-1 effect expansion board is installed, a wide vari-
ety of effects will be available for use on the VS-880.
Main features
10

In addition to the items listed under ÒIMPORTANT SAFE-
TY INSTRUCTIONSÓ and ÒUSING THE UNIT SAFELYÓ on
pages 2 and 3, please read and observe the following:
Power Supply
●Do not use this unit on the same power circuit with any
device that will generate line noise (such as an electric
motor or variable lighting system).
●Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn off the
power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions
and/or damage to speakers or other devices.
Placement
●Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other equip-
ment 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.
●This device may interfere with radio and television
reception. Do not use this device in the vicinity of such
receivers.
●Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near
devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed vehi-
cle, or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes.
Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.
Maintenance
●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.
●Never use benzene, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any
kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or
deformation.
Repairs and Data
●Please be aware that all data contained in the unitÕs
memory may be lost when the unit is sent for repairs.
Important data should always be backed up on a DAT
recorder or an external disk drive (e.g., hard disk or MO
disk). 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.
Disk drive handling
Disk drives are precision devices. When handling a VS-880
that has an internal hard disk installed, or when handling
an external disk drive, observe the following precautions.
●For details on hard disk handling, refer also to the
instructions that accompanied your hard disk.
●Before performing the following actions, be sure to per-
form the shut-down operation. If you fail to perform the
shut-down operation, not only the data recorded on the
hard disk, but also the hard disk itself may be damaged.
Turning off the power of the disk drive
Turning off the power of the VS-880
Removing a disk from a removable disk drive
●While the MIDI/DISK indicator of the VS-880 or the disk
drive busy indicator is lit, data is being transferred to or
from the disk drive. If you are using a removable disk
drive, make sure that this indicator is dark before remov-
ing the disk.
●Place the unit in a stable and level location that is not
affected by vibration from external sources. If the unit is
tilted severely, this may have harmful effects on the
operation of the disk drive.
●While using the VS-880, be careful not to subject the unit
to vibration or shock, and avoid moving the unit while
the power is turned on. When transporting the unit, pack
it in its original shipping carton.
●Avoid using the unit immediately after it has been
moved to a location with a level of humidity that is
greatly different than its former location. Rapid changes
in the environment can cause condensation to form
inside the drive, which will adversely affect the opera-
tion of the drive and/or damage removable disks. When
the unit has been moved, allow it to become accustomed
to the new environment (allow a few hours) before oper-
ating it.
Important notes
11
Chapter 1

Concerning copyright
The law prohibits the unauthorized recording, public per-
formance, broadcast, sale, or distribution etc. of a work (CD
recording, video recording, broadcast, etc.) whose copyright
is owned by a third party.
The VS-880 does not implement SCMS. This design decision
was made with the intent that SCMS should not restrict the
creation of original compositions which do not violate copy-
right law. Roland will take no responsibility for any
infringement of copyright that you may commit in using
the VS-880.
Disclaimer of liability
Roland will take no responsibility for any Òdirect damages,Ó
Òconsequential damages,Ó or Òany other damagesÓ which
may result from your use of the VS-880. These damages
may include but are not limited to the following events
which can occur when using the VS-880.
Any loss of profit that may occur to you
Permanent loss of your music or data
Inability to continue using the VS-880 itself or a connect-
ed device
Additional Precautions
●Please be aware that the contents of memory can be irre-
trievably lost as a result of a malfunction, or the improp-
er 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 unitÕs memory on a DAT recorder or
an external disk drive (e.g., hard disk or MO disk).
●Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the con-
tents of data that was stored on a DAT recorder or an
external disk drive (e.g., hard disk or MO disk) once it
has been lost. Roland Corporation assumes no liability
concerning such loss of data.
●Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unitÕs
buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its
jacks and connectors. Rough handling can lead to mal-
functions.
●Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.
●When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the
connector itselfÑnever pull on the cable. This way you
will avoid causing shorts, or damage to the cableÕs inter-
nal elements.
●A small amount of heat will radiate from the unit during
normal operation.
●To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the
unitÕs volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use
headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about
those around you (especially when it is late at night).
●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.
< About SCMS >
ÒSCMSÓ stands for ÒSerial Copy Management System.Ó
This is a function that protects the rights of copyright
holders by prohibiting recording via a digital connection
for more than two generations. When digital connections
are made between digital recorders that implement this
function, SCMS data will be recorded along with the
audio data. Digital audio data which contains this SCMS
data cannot again be recorded via a digital connection.
Important notes
12

Mixer section
1. PEAK indicators
These indicators allow you to avoid distortion of the sound
being input at the input jacks (1Ð4). The peak indicators will
light red when the signal reaches -6 dB before clipping
level. Adjust the input sensitivity so that the peak indicators
do not light.
2. INPUT SENS (input sensitivity) knobs
These knobs adjust the sensitivity of the input jacks (1Ð4).
Rotate a knob fully right for mic level (-50 dBm), and fully
left for line level (+4 dBm).
3. PAN knobs
These knobs adjust the pan (location in the stereo output) of
each channel.
4. CH EDIT / SEL (channel edit/select) buttons
Use these buttons when you wish to make settings for a
mixer channel. The names of the parameter groups that can
be set for each channel are printed below CH EDIT. To
directly specify a particular group, you can hold down
[SHIFT] and press the button for that group name.
When editing a song, use these buttons to select tracks for
editing.
5. STATUS buttons
These buttons switch the status of each channel. The current
status is shown by the button indicator.
SOURCE (orange): The input source assigned to the
channel is being output.
REC (blinking red): Recording is selected for the track
assigned to the channel.
PLAY (green): The track assigned to the channel
will playback.
MUTE (dark): The channel is muted (silent).
6. Channel faders
Use these faders to adjust the volume level of each channel.
7. SELECT button
This button switches the operating mode of the mixer. The
current mixer mode is shown by the indicators located at
the right of the button. Each time you press the button, you
will alternate between INPUT MIX mode and TRACK MIX
mode. To change from INPUT➝TRACK mode to INPUT
MIX mode / TRACK MIX mode, hold down [SHIFT] and
press the button. Use the same operation to move in the
other direction.
INPUT➝TRACK mode
INPUT MIX mode
TRACK MIX mode
8. PHONES knob
This knob adjusts the volume of the headphones.
9. AUX SEND knob
This knob adjusts the output level of the AUX SEND jacks.
10.EDIT/SOLO button
Press this button to make settings for the master section of
the mixer.
To use the Solo function to monitor only a specific channel,
hold [SHIFT] while you press the button.
11.Master fader
Use this fader to adjust the overall output level.
PAN
C
TRACK MIX
STATUS
SEL
a
1
Input BUSS
Input BUSS
V.Track
INPUT TRACK
INPUT MIX
SOLO
AUX SEND
PEAK
(dB)
REC
PLAY
MUTE
EQ
BUSS Send
Channel Link
AUX Send
SOURCE
Master Out
6
4
0
4
8
12
18
24
36
(dB)
6
4
0
4
8
12
18
24
36
BUSS BUSS BUSS BUSSAUX
V.Track EQ Low EQ Mid EQ Hi Aux Send
SELECT
EFFECT-1 EFFECT-2
10
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
bAUX
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
cAUX
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
dAUX
PAN
C
STATUS
SEL
AUX SEND
2PEAK
10 3PEAK 10 4
0
PEAK
10
MASTER
CH EDIT CH EDIT EDIT
INPUT SENS PHONES MIXER MODE
1 2
CH EDIT CH EDIT
3 4
CH EDIT CH EDIT
5 6
CH EDIT CH EDIT
7 8
L R L R L R L R L R L R L R L R
4 50dBm 4 50dBm 4 50 dBm 4 50dBm 0 10
6dB
EFFECT-2
-1
EFFECT-2
-1
Front and rear panels
13
Chapter 1

Recorder section
1. PLAY/DISPLAY button
Press this button to return from making a setting (edit con-
dition) back to normal status (play condition). To switch
display items in the bar display, hold down [SHIFT] and
press this button.
2. EDIT CONDITION buttons
The functions and parameters of the VS-880 are organized
within these buttons. To use a desired operation, press the
appropriate button.
3. LOCATOR buttons
Press these buttons when using the Locator function or the
Tap Marker function.
When the NUMERICS indicator is lit, these buttons function
as numeric keys to directly input numbers. When the
SCENE indicator is lit, these buttons are used to store and
recall scenes (snapshots of mixer settings).
4. Transport control buttons
These buttons are used to operate the recorder.
[ZERO]: Return the current time to Ò00h00m00s00Ó
(zero return).
[REW]: While the button is held down, the current
time will be moved backward. This corre-
sponds to the rewind button on a tape
recorder.
[FF]: While the button is held down, the current
time will be moved forward. This corre-
sponds to the fast-forward button on a tape
recorder.
[STOP]: Stop song recording/playback.
[PLAY]: Start song recording/playback from the cur-
rent time.
[REC]: Press this button to record a song.
5. TIME/VALUE dial
Normally (i.e., in Play condition), this dial is used to move
the current time. When making settings (i.e., in Edit condi-
tion), this dial is used to modify parameter values.
6. PARAMETER buttons
Use these buttons to switch the parameter display.
7. SHIFT button
This button is used in conjunction with other buttons to
access additional functions of that button. For details refer
to ÒSpecial key operationsÓ (p.136).
8. CURSOR buttons, NO/YES buttons, CANCEL/ENTER
buttons
When a YES/NO response is required during an operation,
use these button to reply. When two or more parameters are
shown in the display, use these buttons to select parame-
ters.
9. NUMERICS button
When this button is pressed to make the indicator light, the
ten LOCATOR buttons will act as numeric keys to enter
numerical values.
10.VARI PITCH button
Press this button when you wish to change the playback
pitch.
11.UNDO button
Press this button to cancel a recording that you have made.
Also, after performing a song edit operation, you can press
this button to return to the condition before editing. When
undo is executed, the button indicator will light.
12.MIDI/DISK indicator
This indicator will light green when MIDI messages are
being received, and red when data is being written or read
on the disk drive. If both of these are occurring, the indica-
tor will light orange.
13.SCENE button
Press this button when you wish to memorize or recall
scenes (snapshots of the mixer settings).
14.PREVIEW button
Press this button to use the Preview function that plays back
a specific length before and after the current location.
LOOP
NEXT
MARKER
PREVIOUS TAP
CLEAR
AUTO PUNCH
LOC 1/ LOC 2/ LOC 3/ LOC 4/ SCRUB
PREVIEW
NO CURSOR
CANCEL ENTER
FROMTO
DISPLAY
12345
67890
1/ 2 / 3/ 4/ CLEAR
TIME VALUE
SCENE
UNDONUMERICS
Pre Level
Post Level
Play List
Amp Profile
TRACK SYSTEMEFFECT
Track
-Move
Copy
-Xchg
-Insert
-Cut
-Erase
Time Comp Exp.
EFFECT-2
-1Marker
Locate
Loop
A.Punch I O
System
MIDI
Sync
Scene
DISK
Song Select
-Name
-New
-Copy
-Erase
-Optimize Drive Select
-Initialize
DAT
-Recover
Backup
LOCATORSONG
Fader Pan
STOP PLAY RECFFZERO REW
VARI PITCH
LOCATOR
EDIT CONDITION PLAY
SONG TOPSTORE SONG END SHUT EJECT RESTART
DISK
MIDI/
5 6 7 8
YES
SHIFT
PARAMETER
5 6 7 8
Front and reat panels
14

Display section
1. CONDITION
This indicates the current condition.
PLY: Play (normal. When turn the Song Protect on,
ÒPlyÓ will be indicated.)
CHn: Channel edit (n=1Ð8, aÐd) (in INPUT➝TRACK
MIX mode)
INn: Channel edit (n=1Ð6, aÐc) (in INPUT MIX mode)
TRn: Channel edit (n=1Ð8, aÐd) (in TRACK MIX mode)
MST: Master block edit
SNG: Song edit
LOC: Locator edit
TRK: Track edit
EFF: Effect edit
SYS: System edit
*The channel edit display will depend on the currently
selected mixer mode. Also, channels for which Channel
Link is OFF will be displayed as 1Ð8, and channels for
which it is ON will be displayed as aÐd.
2. MARKER
This shows the mark point number for the current time. If a
mark point has not been assigned to the current time, the
closest mark point number located before the current time
will be shown.
3. TIME
This shows the current time of the song.
4. MEASURE
This shows the current measure of the song.
5. BEAT
This shows the current beat of the song.
6. SYNC MODE
This indicates the current sync mode (method of synchro-
nization).
7. SCENE
This shows the currently used scene number (mixer setting).
An asterisk Ò✱Ó shown at the beginning of the scene num-
ber indicates that the current mixer settings have been mod-
ified since the scene was recalled.
8. REMAINING TIME
This shows the remaining length of time available for
recording.
9. Bar display
In Play condition, the item selected by [DISPLAY (PLAY)]
are shown graphically. While you are making a setting, data
for the setting being made is displayed graphically.
CONDITION MARKER#
MASTER INPUT TRACK AUX
TIMETIME
48
24
4
0dB
1122
Front and reat panels
15

Rear panel
1. POWER switch
This switch turns the VS-880 power on/off.
2. AC IN (AC inlet)
Connect the included power cable here.
3. SCSI connector
This is a DB-25 type SCSI connector for connecting disk dri-
ves such as hard disks or removable disks. If you wish to
connect a disk drive, refer to ÒUse with a Zip driveÓ (p.93).
4. MIDI connectors (IN, OUT/THRU)
External MIDI devices (MIDI controllers, MIDI sequencers,
etc.) can be connected here.
IN: This connector receives MIDI messages.
Connect it to the MIDI OUT connector of
the external MIDI device.
OUT/THRU: This connector can be used either as a
MIDI OUT or as a MIDI THRU connector.
With the factory settings, it will function
as a MIDI OUT connector.
5. DIGITAL (5,6) connectors (IN, OUT)
These are coaxial-type digital I/O connectors (comforms to
S/P DIF).
IN: This inputs a digital audio signal (stereo).
OUT: This outputs a digital audio signal (stereo). The
sound is the same as that of the MASTER OUT
jacks.
*To record a digital audio signal, it is not sufficient to sim-
ply connect a digital audio device to the DIGITAL IN con-
nector. When inputting a digital audio signal, refer to
ÒDigital recordingÓ (p.72).
*The DIGITAL connector is not able to input or output
analog audio signals.
6. FOOT SWITCH jack
An optional foot switch can be connected here to control
recorder operations, mark point settings, and punch in/out
operations etc. by foot switch. With the factory settings, a
foot switch will start/stop the recorder. To change this
function, refer to ÒUsing a footswitch to playback/stopÓ
(p.110).
7. PHONES jack
An optional set of headphones can be connected here. The
PHONES jack outputs the same sound as the MASTER
OUT jack.
8. INPUT B jacks (1–4)
9. INPUT A jacks (1–4)
These are input jacks for analog audio signals. INPUT A are
1/4Ó phone jacks, and INPUT B are RCA phono jacks. You
may use either type of jack. If cables are connected to both
types, the INPUT A jacks will take priority. Use the INPUT
SENS knob to adjust the input sensitivity of each input.
10.AUX SEND jacks (A,B)
11.MASTER OUT jacks (L,R)
These are output jacks for analog audio signals (RCA phono
type).
With the factory settings, all signals will be output from the
MASTER OUT jacks, and there will be no output from the
AUX SEND jacks. The output will be determined by the set-
tings of the mixerÕs master section and the settings of each
channel.
The AUX SEND jacks can also be used as send jacks for con-
necting external effect units (p.127).
Front and reat panels
16
MIDI IN SCSI OUT THRU SWITCH
FOOT
AC IN
MASTER OUTMASTER OUT
IN
OUT
DIGITAL(5,6)
AUX SEND
PHONES 1234 1
234
LRAB
INPUTINPUT BBINPUTINPUT AA

This chapter provides some simple examples which explain
the operation of the expanded VS-880. Read the explana-
tions in sequence to learn about the newly added functions.
*If a song created on the VS-880 V-XPANDED is loaded by
VS-880 Ver.1, data for the functions added in V-XPAND-
ED (Auto Mix etc.) may be lost. To prevent this from hap-
pening, turn Song Protect on (p.74).
Mixer-related
■Using auto mix
Time based movements such as channel faders and pan can
now be recorded to mark points (auto mix). When you
move to a mark point, the recorded mixer settings will be
reproduced.
Auto mix can be recorded separately in each mixer mode.
The mixer settings which can be recorded are as follows.
*The items printed in bold type can be adjusted directly
from the faders or pan knobs on the top panel. By operat-
ing these while a song is playing back, you can record
time-based mixer movements such as fade-in or panning.
When Channel Link is on, the channel faders and pan
knobs of even-numbered channels will respectively adjust
AUX level and AUX balance.
INPUT➝TRACK
MIX Level
MIX Pan/MIX Bal (Mix Balance)
AUX Level
AUX Pan/AUX Bal (AUX Balance)
EFFECT1 Send (Effect 1 Send Level)
EFFECT1 Pan/EFFECT1 Bal (Effect 1 Balance)
EFFECT2 Send (Effect 2 Send Level)
EFFECT2 Pan/EFFECT2 Bal (Effect 2 Balance)
INPUT MIX
BUSS Level
BUSS Pan/BUSS Bal (BUSS Balance)
AUX Level
AUX Pan/AUX Bal (AUX Balance)
EFFECT1 Send (Effect 1 Send Level)
EFFECT1 Pan/EFFECT1 Bal (Effect 1 Balance)
EFFECT2 Send (Effect 2 Send Level)
EFFECT2 Pan/EFFECT2 Bal (Effect 2 Balance)
TRACK MIX
BUSS Level
BUSS Pan/BUSS Bal (BUSS Balance)
AUX Level
AUX Pan/AUX Bal (AUX Balance)
EFFECT1 Send (Effect 1 Send Level)
EFFECT1 Pan/EFFECT1 Bal (Effect 1 Balance)
EFFECT2 Send (Effect 2 Send Level)
EFFECT2 Pan/EFFECT2 Bal (Effect 2 Balance)
Master Block
MasterLevel
Master Bal (Master Balance)
AUX Level
AUX Bal (AUX Balance)
EFFECT1 SND Lev (Effect 1 Send Level)
EFFECT1 SND Bal (Effect 1 Send Balance)
EFFECT1 RTN Lev (Effect 1 Return Level)
EFFECT1 RTN Bal (Effect 1 Return Balance)
EFFECT2 SND Lev (Effect 2 Send Level)
EFFECT2 SND Bal (Effect 2 Send Balance)
EFFECT2 RTN Lev (Effect 2 Return Level)
EFFECT2 RTN Bal(Effect 2 Return Balance)
Effect
EFFECT-1 (Effect 1 Number)
EFFECT-2 (Effect 2 Number)
< How auto mix differs from scenes >
In that auto mix Òrecords mixer settings,Ó its functionality
is similar to scenes.
It differs from scenes in the following ways. Use the two
functions as appropriate for your needs.
1000 can be recorded (the number of mark points).
Valid even during song playback.
Cannot switch the mixer mode.
Cannot switch V-tracks.
Chapter 1 Trying out the expanded functions
17
Chapter 1

Preparations for auto mix
1. Press [SYSTEM] several times until “SYS Scene/Auto
Mix?” is displayed.
2. Press [YES].
3. Press PARAMETER [ ] several times until “SYS
A.Mix Mode=” appears.
4. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial.
When the setting is on, the [SELECT] indicator will
blink.
A.Mix Mode (Auto mix mode)
Off: Auto mix mode will not be used (same as in Ver.1).
On: Auto mix mode will be used.
5. Press [PLAY(DISPLAY)].
Return to Play condition.
*By holding down [SCENE] and pressing [SELECT], you
can turn Auto Mix Mode on/off in a single operation.
Recording the mixer settings, method 1
(Snapshot)
Mixer settings can be recorded in a Mark point. When you
move to that Mark point, the mixer settings that were
recorded will be reproduced.
For example, this is convenient when you want the intro
and ending to have different volume levels for the guitar
part or different effect send levels etc.
1. Make sure that Auto Mix is on, press holding down
[SCENE] and pressing [TAP].
A mark point will be added at the current time location.
At the same time, the settings of the mixer will be
recorded at the mark point. A mark point in which
mixer settings are recorded will be indicated by an Ò✱Ó
following it.
*If a mark point already exists within 0.1 seconds before
the time location at which you are attempting to place a
new mark point (i.e., the current time), the auto mix data
will be recorded at the earlier mark point. A mark point
will not be newly assigned.
Recording the mixer settings, method 2
(Gradation)
This method creates an auto mix that smoothly connects the
mixer settings recorded in two adjacent mark points.
For example, this is convenient when you wish to fade-in or
fade-out at a specified time.
1. Move to the time location at which you wish to begin the
auto mix.
2. Perform the procedure for “Recording the mixer set-
tings, method 1”.
3. Move to the time location at which you wish to end the
auto mix.
4. Perform the procedure for “Recording the mixer set-
tings, method 1” once again.
Two mark points have now been assigned.
5. Make sure that auto mix is on, holding down [SCENE]
and pressing [PREV].
A mark point will be automatically added between the
two mark points, and the mixer settings will be interpo-
lated.
*If you wish to interpolate with the previous mark point,
press [SCENE]+[PREV]. If you wish to interpolate with
the next mark point, holding down [SCENE] and pressing
[NEXT].
Recording the mixer settings, method 3
(Realtime)
With this method, only those the mixer settings which can
be adjusted from the top panel will be recorded to mark
points in realtime. For example, this is convenient when
you wish to fade-in or fade-out individual tracks.
1. Move to the time location at which you wish to record
the auto mix.
2. Make sure that auto mix is on, holding down [SCENE]
and pressing [REC].
The CONDITION column display will alternate
between the current condition name and Òmix,Ó indicat-
ing that preparations have been made for realtime
recording of the auto mix.
3. Specify the channels for with auto mix will be recorded.
Move the faders and pan knobs of the top panel to the
desired locations.
4. Press [PLAY].
Playback will begin.
5. Operate the channel faders, pan knobs, and master
fader of the top panel.
Auto mix data will be recorded only for those channels
which were modified.
6. When the mix is finished, press [STOP].
Mark points will be automatically created in the area
which was played back.
If you wish to redo the auto mix, repeat steps 1Ð5.
CONDITION MARKER#
MASTER INPUT TRACK AUX
TIMETIME
48
24
4
0dB
1122
CONDITION MARKER#
MASTER INPUT TRACK AUX
TIMETIME
48
24
4
0dB
1122
Chapter 1 Trying out the expanded functions
18

If you do not wish to record top panel
settings (Mask Fader)
In ÒRecording the mixer settings, method 1 (Snapshot)Ó,
you can specify that the settings adjustable from the top
panel will not be recorded.
For example, this is convenient when you have made fade-
in settings according to ÒRecording the mixer settings,
method 2Ó, and then wish to modify the effect send levels,
etc.
1. Press [SYSTEM] several times until “SYS Scene/Auto
Mix?” appears.
2. Press [YES].
3. Press PARAMETER [ ] several times until “SYS
A.Mix Snap=” appears.
4. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial.
A.Mix Snap (Auto Mix Snapshot Mode)
Select the settings that will be recorded by the snapshot.
All: All settings will be recorded.
MaskF: Settings which can be adjusted by the top
panel (channel faders etc.) will be ignored.
5. Press [PLAY(DISPLAY)]. You will return to Play condi-
tion.
6. Perform the procedure of “Recording the mixer settings,
method 1”.
Playing back the auto mix
1. Make sure that auto mix is on.
2. Press [PLAY].
The auto mix will playback.
While the auto mix is playing back, operating a fader or
pan knob will cause auto mix to be defeated for that
channel. If you stop and then playback again, auto mix
will once again take effect. Alternatively, you can tem-
porarily turn Auto Mix off during playback and then
turn it on again, causing Auto Mix to again be valid.
Erasing the auto mix
1. Press [SYSTEM] several times until “SYS Scene/Auto
Mix?” appears.
2. Press [YES].
3. Press PARAMETER [ ] several times until “SYS
A.Mix Erase?” appears.
4. Press [YES].
5. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the first mark point
of the area in which you wish to erase the auto mix.
6. Press CURSOR[ ].
The cursor will move toward the right.
7. Use the TIME/VALUE dial to specify the last mark point
of the area in which you wish to erase the auto mix.
8. Press PARAMETER [ ].
The display will indicate ÒSYS EraseMode=Ó.
9. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial.
EraseMode (Auto Mix Erase Mode)
Select the auto mix data which will be erased.
Event: Only auto mix events will be erased.
Marker: Both mark points and auto mix events will be
erased.
10.Press PARAMETER [ ].
The display will indicate ÒSYS Erase___<=>___?Ó. The
underlined area will display the mark points specified
in steps 5Ð7.
11.Press [YES].
A message will ask you to confirm that you really wish
to erase the data.
12.Press [YES] once again.
The auto mix will be erased.
< What is an event? >
The smallest unit of memory used by the VS-880 to store
recorded results on disk is the event. A newly created
song provides approximately 12,000 events per song.
For each track, one recording pass uses two events.
Operations such as punch-in/out or track copy also use
up events. The number of events that are used up will
fluctuate in a complex way. For example, auto mix uses
up five events for each mark point.
Even if there is capacity remaining on the disk, further
recording or track editing will not be possible if all of the
events are used up. In such cases, an error message such
as ÒEvent Mem FullÓ will appear (p.134).
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Chapter 1

About “!!! Lack of EVENT !!” display
Ò!!! Lack of EVENT !!Ó will be appeared in the display in the
following cases, and you cannot continue the current opera-
tion.
¥If you push [SCENE]+[REC] buttons to record
AutoMix data in realtime, when the remaining num-
ber of EVENT is less than 1000.
¥If you try to UNDO or REDO when the remaining
number of Event is less than 200.
The smallest unit of memory used by the VS-880 to store
recorded results on disk are the events. A newly created
song provides approximately 12,000 events per song.
For each track, one recording pass uses two events.
Operations such as punch-in/out or track copy also use up
events. The number of events that are used up will fluctuate
in a complex way. For example, auto mix uses up five
events for each mark point.
When you do a lot of recording, editing (Track Copy, Track
Move) or record AutoMix of long period, please check the
remaining number of Events frequently. Procedure is as fol-
lows.
1. Press [SYSTEM] several times until “SYS System
PRM?” appears.
2. Press [YES].
3. Press PARAMETER [ ] several times until “SYS
RemainDsp=” appears.
4. Select “Event” with TIME/VALUE dial.
Remaining number of Events can be saved with the follow-
ing procedures. Please try the most appropriate one with
your situation.
• Execute Song Store (Owner's manual p.74)
Please Execute Song Store if in UNDO condition
([UNDO] indicator is lit.). Events served for REDO will be
released. But please note that you cannot cancel (REDO)
the last UNDO if you once execute STORE.
• Execute Song Optimize (Owner's manual p.113)
Please execute Song Optimize if you have done a lot of
Punch In recording. Events served for unnecessary audio
data will be released. But please note that you can only do
single level UNDO.
• Erace AutoMix data (Owner's manual p.19)
If you have recorded AutoMix data, erase unnecessary
data. Events served for unnecessary AutoMix data will be
released.
■Using the 3-band equalizer in
INPUT MIX/TRACK MIX
From the total of fourteen INPUT MIX/TRACK MIX chan-
nels, you can now use a 3-band equalizer on any eight
selected channels.
*If equalizer is turned on for more than 8 channels, it will
not be possible to use the 3-band equalizer. Please turn off
the equalizer switch for channels on which equalization is
not required.
Turning the equalizer on/off
1. Make sure that the mixer mode is INPUT MIX/TRACK
MIX.
2. Hold down [SHIFT], and press channel 3 [EQ Low(CH
EDIT)].
3. Press PARAMETER [ ].
4. Press [CH EDIT] for the channels or tracks for which
you wish to turn the equalizer off.
5. Rotate the TIME/VALUE dial.
EQ Switch (equalizer switch)
If you wish to use the equalizer, set this ÒOn.Ó If not, set this
ÒOff.Ó When equalizer settings are being made, the equal-
ization curve will be shown graphically in the bar display. If
this is ÒOffÓ the equalizer-related parameters will not be
available.
CONDITION MARKER#
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TIMETIME
48
24
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1122
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MASTER INPUT TRACK AUX
TIMETIME
48
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0dB
1122
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MASTER INPUT TRACK AUX
TIMETIME
48
24
4
0dB
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Chapter 1 Trying out the expanded functions
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