Roland E-66 - The General MIDI(GM) System and the Roland GS Format

The General MIDI(GM) System and the Roland GS Format
GENERAL
What is the General MIDI System? ШЫ!
The GM System is a universal set of specifications for sound generating devices
which has been agreed upon by both the Japanese MIDI Standards Committee and
the American MMA (MIDI Manufacturers’ Association).
These specifications seek to allow for the creation of music data which is not
limited to equipment by a particular manufacturer or to specific models.
The GM System defines things such as the mini-mum number of voices that should
be supported, the MIDI messages that should be recognized, which sounds
correspond to which Program Change numbers, and the layout of rhythm sounds on
the keyboard.
Thanks to these specifications, any device that is equipped with sound sources
supporting the GM System will be able to accurately reproduce GM Scores (music
data created for the GM System), regardless of the make or model.
G
What is the Roland GS Format?
The GS Format is a standardized set of specifications for Roland’s sound sources
which defines the manner in which multi-timbral sound generating units will
respond to MIDI messages.
The GS Format also complies with the GM System. In addition, the GS Format also
defines a number of other details. These include unique specifications for sounds
and the functions available for Tone editing and effects (chorus & reverb), and other
specifications concerning the manner in which sound sources will respond to MIDI
messages.
Any device that is equipped with GS Format sound sources can faithfully
reproduce GS Music Data (music data created under the GS Format).
Any product carrying both the GM and GS logos can reproduce any song data
bearing either logo.
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