The Roland A-33 is a MIDI Keyboard Controller, designed to provide comprehensive control over MIDI-compatible sound sources. It features a 76-weighted key (E-F) keyboard with velocity sensitivity, allowing for expressive and dynamic performances. The controller is completely compatible with the Roland GS Format, ensuring seamless integration with a wide range of Roland sound modules and other GS-compatible devices.
Technical Specifications:
- Keyboard: 76 weighted keys (E-F), velocity sensitive.
- Sound Source: Completely compatible with Roland GS Format.
- Power Requirement: The A-33 can be powered by a DC 9V AC adaptor from the ACA Series or by 6x MN1500 alkaline batteries.
- Current Draws: Approximately 80mADC at 9VDC.
- Power Consumption: 720mW (for 100V/117V/230V/240V AC adaptors).
- Battery Life: Approximately 25 hours. Note that actual battery life may vary depending on usage conditions.
- External Dimensions: 1195mm (W) x 270mm (D) x 110mm (H).
- Weight: 8 kg.
Usage Features:
The A-33 offers a variety of controls and connections to enhance its functionality as a MIDI controller:
- MIDI Connections: It includes MIDI IN, MIDI OUT1, MIDI OUT2, and MIDI THRU ports, providing flexible routing options for connecting to multiple MIDI devices.
- Pedal Inputs: A Sustain Switch input and an Expression Pedal input allow for additional real-time control over performance parameters, such as sustain and volume/expression.
- DC In: A dedicated DC In jack is provided for connecting the AC adaptor.
- Controls: The front panel features a Data Entry slider for adjusting various parameters, and a Bender/Modulation lever for expressive pitch bend and modulation effects.
- Front Panel Layout: The control panel is logically organized with sections for Data Entry, KBD Mode, Select, Mode, Effects, Sequencer (Start/Stop), Octave, Patch/Tone, and Parameter. LEDs indicate the status of various functions, with black for Group 22x8 W/DIFF and red for LED Diode TLHR4401.
- Rear Panel Connections: The rear panel includes Jack Sockets (HLJ0520-01-010), a SP DIN Socket (YKFSI-5054), a DC Supply Socket (HEC 0470 01-630), and a Power Switch (SSSP12114A).
- Battery Compartment: A battery holder for 6 batteries is located on the underside of the unit, allowing for portable use.
- Accessories: The A-33 comes with several accessories to enhance the user experience, including an Owner's Manual (available in English, German, French, Italian, Japanese, Dutch), a MIDI Guide, a 1m black MIDI Cable, 6x MN1500 alkaline batteries (2 battery sets, size "AA"), a Music Rest, and a Music Score Holder.
Maintenance Features:
The manual provides detailed instructions for disassembly and maintenance, including:
- Disassembly: The bottom cabinet is secured by 11 Philips head screws (35 x 19 self-tapping screws TC TC PR BZ). Removing these screws allows access to the internal components.
- Exploded Views: Detailed exploded diagrams illustrate the placement of all internal components, including the Controls PCB Assy, Power Supply PCB Assy, Metal Chassis, CPU PCB Assy, Jack Sockets Assy, Battery Holder, Left Contact PCB Assy+Rubber, Right Contact PCB Assy+Rubber, and the 76-Key Keyboard Assy.
- Parts List: A comprehensive parts list is provided, categorizing components such as casing, knob/button, switch, jack/socket, bender unit, keyboard assy, PCB assy, ICs, transistors, diodes, resistors, potentiometers, capacitors, inductors/coils/filters, crystal/resonator, connectors, wiring/cables, screws, and miscellaneous items. Each part includes a description, code, and quantity.
- Safety Precautions: Parts marked with "A" have safety-related characteristics, and only listed parts should be used for replacement.
- Parts Ordering: When ordering parts, users are instructed to specify the part number, description, model number, and quantity to avoid delays or incorrect orders.
- Service Notes: The manual includes "First Edition" service notes issued by RES.
- Restoring Factory Preset: Instructions are provided to restore the factory presets:
- Switch on the A-33 while holding down the "Write" button.
- All 32 factory patches will be restored.
- During the restoration, the LEDs on the panel will blink until the process is complete, which takes approximately 30 seconds. This feature is crucial for troubleshooting and resetting the device to its original state.
- Circuit Diagrams: Detailed circuit diagrams are provided for the Power Supply PCB Assy, Jack PCB Assy, CPU PCB Assy, Right Contact PCB Assy, Left Contact PCB Assy, and Control PCB Assy. These diagrams are invaluable for advanced troubleshooting and repair.
- Contact Boards: The contact boards (left and right) are supplied complete with rubber contacts. Instructions are given for cutting and assembling rubber contacts if needed.
The Roland A-33 is a robust and versatile MIDI keyboard controller, designed for musicians seeking a reliable and expressive tool for their MIDI setups. Its comprehensive feature set, detailed documentation, and ease of maintenance make it a valuable asset for both studio and live applications.