Roland FR-8X - Connecting Headphones; Connecting a MIDI Device

Before you Start Playing
22
TIPS
If you are using the supplied rechargeable battery pack and
need to connect the FR-8x to a PA system or mixer, we
recommend using a commercially available wireless system to
avoid using excessively long signal cables.
Connecting Headphones
You can connect the [PHONES] jack to a set of Headphones
The internal speakers are automatically shut o when a plug
is inserted into this jack.
If you want to use the FR-8x internal speakers also while
a pair of headphones is connected, set the parameter
“SPEAKERS” (p. 106) appropriately.
1. Plug the headphones into the PHONES jack located
on the FR-8x’s connection panel.
NOTE
Use stereo headphones. Please use only Roland
headphones.
Headphones from other manufacturers may be unable to
provide sucient volume.
2. Use the FR-8x’s [VOLUME] knob to adjust the
headphone volume.
Cautions when using headphones
• To prevent damage to the cord’s internal conductors, avoid
rough handling. When using headphones, mainly try to
handle either the plug or the headset.
• Your headphones may be damaged if the volume of a device
is already turned up when you plug them in. Minimize the
volume before you plug in the headphones.
• Excessive input will not only damage your hearing, but
may also strain the headphones. Please enjoy music at a
reasonable volume.
NOTE
To prevent malfunction and equipment failure, always
turn down the volume and turn o all units before
making any connections.
Connecting a MIDI Device
By connecting an external MIDI device and exchanging
performance data, you can control one device from another.
For instance, you can output sound from other instruments,
switch sounds or receive MIDI data from an external
sequencer that cause your FR-8x to play. See p. 112 for
MIDI parameters.
What is MIDI?
MIDI, short for “Musical Instrument Digital Interface,” was
developed as a universal standard for the exchange of
performance data among electronic musical instruments and
computers.
The FR-8x is equipped with MIDI connectors to let it
exchange performance data with external devices. These
connectors can be used to connect the unit to an external
device for even greater versatility.
Connection example
If you use a MIDI cable to connect this unit’s MIDI OUT connector to
the MIDI IN connector of your external MIDI sound module, you’ll
be able to produce sound on the external MIDI sound module by
playing this unit’s keyboard. As necessary, set the external MIDI
sound module’s receive channel to match this unit’s MIDI transmit
channel.
MIDI cables
OUT
MIDI
IN
MIDI Sound Module
or
Sequencer
FR-8x
An important application for the FR-8x’s MIDI functions is
controlling an backing module (e.g. BK-7m) that supplies the
accompaniment. “Backing modules” use short accompaniment
patterns that can be selected in realtime and whose key depends
on the note information they receive.
MIDI channels
MIDI provides sixteen channels, numbered 1~16. Even if two MIDI
devices are connected, you won’t be able to select or play sounds
on the other device unless both devices are set to the same MIDI
channel. The FR-8x use the following MIDI channels:
Section Channel
Accordion section 1
Bass/Free Bass section 2
Chord section 3
Orchestra1/Organ section 4
Orchestra Bass section 5
Orchestra Chord section 6
Orchestra Free Bass section 7
Drum section 10
Orchestra2 section 11
Basic Channel (For selection Sets, User Program) 13
NOTE
Before making connections with other devices, you must turn
down the volume of all devices and turn o the power to avoid