Back Up The Settings Of A Roland U-220 Sound Module
By · CommentsToday features another question from a reader. Vic asks…
“Could you please provide me with instructions to backup the sounds on my U220 via MIDI to my computer before I load other SysEx files on this unit?”
The Roland U220 Sound Module
This involves a transfer of system exclusive (SysEx) data from the Roland U-220 to a MIDI recording device that has SysEx recording capability. Most MIDI sequencer programs have this ability these days, but check your owners manual to be sure. There may be some options you need to set in order to enable this functionality in your program.
Roland uses the term “Bulk Dump” for this operation. This is a one-way transmission of data from the U-220. This means that it will transmit its data regardless of the condition or connection of a receiving device. In this respect the U-220 is “dumb”, it just blasts the data on command and has no idea where, or if, it went.
NOTE: Make sure to set the U-220 and the receiving device to the same device ID number (use 17). If they aren’t matched on both devices the transfer will fail.
Okay, assuming all the prerequisite setup is done, here’s how to proceed…
1. On the front panel push the “Data” button.
2. Use the cursor buttons to make the word “Bulk” flash.
3. Push “Enter” once.
4. Use the cursor buttons to start the word “All” flashing.
5. Push “Enter” once, and only once at this point.
6. Make sure your recording device is armed and start it recording.
7. Push “Enter” once. The U-220 will now begin transmitting (Bulk Dumping) all of it’s memory. While in progress the display will read “Transmitting SysEx.” When the dump is complete the display will read “Function Completed.”
8. Stop your MIDI recording device and save the file.
That’s it, you’ve successfully backed up the data in your Roland U-220 sound module.
A Brief History Of ALL Roland Synthesizers?
By · CommentsHere’s an animated GIF put together by Das Kraftfuttermischwerk that displays 88 Roland synthesizers in about three seconds; perfect for a quick electronic history lesson or inducing a seizure at will.
Like our sun, you shouldn’t stare directly at this for any length of time.
Feel free to comment on any of the models you can recognize before you pass out. 
A Question About Roland Digital Pianos
By · CommentsThis is a question from Mario of http://www.MGOrchestra.com …
“I figured from your web site, you might have come across the Roland KR 33 piano. Are the keys weighted or not?”
No Mario, the Roland KR-33 does not have weighted keys. It has 76 synth-style keys that are velocity sensitive.
“There is another Roland model said to have weighted keys (76) EP 7 II. Any idea if it produces a classical piano sound as well? (That’s what I am after.)”
This is the official feature breakdown:
The ep-7mkII has a 76-note velocity-sensitive, weighted keyboard and eight CD-quality instrument sounds for creating life-like performances that can be stored on the built-in four song recorder.
Features:
* 76 semi-weighted keys with touch sensitivity
* Built-in stereo sound system with two 5″ speakers
* Onboard digital reverb and chorus effects
* Dual headphone jacks for silent listening by two players or teacher and student
* Optional “console” type stand specifically for the EP7 and EP7mkII
Here’s a close up of the sounds available. You’ll note there are two different piano sounds available. On most Roland gear, these are typically a classical oriented piano and a jazz/pop/rock piano.
I hope this helps you with your search!
A Question About the Roland SH-1000
By · CommentsBill asks regarding the Roland SH-1000:
“Hi, 2 questions…I’m a ‘Cars’ fan and was wondering if you knew if Greg Hawkes used this keyboard? Would you happen to know if the long sweep sound that opens for the Cars “Moving in Stereo” was used on this?”
Bill, I don’t know.
If anyone knows the answer to this and would like to help Bill out and satisfy my curiosity too, leave a comment!
Akai X7000 Question From Carl
By · CommentsCarl F. writes…
Hi Al,
Came across your 11/19/09 post on the Akai X7000.
I have one and 25 sampler discs that I’m looking to sell. Would you be interested or would you know someone who is?
My asking price is $ 450.
I’m not in the market for one right now, but if anyone out there is, please leave a comment and include how Carl can get ahold of you.
Note: I do not know Carl and I cannot offer any endorsement or guarantee of either his character or the quality of the gear he is offering for sale.
Akai X7000 Keyboard Sampler
