Roland VG-99
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All of the units parameters/knobs are located on the top of the unit and is logically placed. It also features the Ribbon-control and the D-Beam. Also the input from the HEX-cable goes here and the on/off button. The display is good and is clearly visible even in bad light. It has shortcuts for pre-programmed "chains" of sound as well as a visible tuner. | All of the units parameters/knobs are located on the top of the unit and is logically placed. It also features the Ribbon-control and the D-Beam. Also the input from the HEX-cable goes here and the on/off button. The display is good and is clearly visible even in bad light. It has shortcuts for pre-programmed "chains" of sound as well as a visible tuner. | ||
| - | [[Image:Vg99_2.jpg|thumb|800px| | + | [[Image:Vg99_2.jpg|thumb|800px|left|Roland VG-99]] |
Revision as of 10:09, 21 December 2009
Contents |
General Information
Original Author: Staffay
Weapon: Guitar/Amp/synth COSM modeller
Make: Roland
Model: VG-99
Price: 1025€ (thomann.de)
Introduction
In order to do this review I had to do some research, even that I did it is difficult to try to describe such an advanced product and all the possibilities this unit has. In fact, still after using this unit for a week, I just scratched the surface of what it really can do. Roland has put all their effort, experience & knowledge from their technology, resources etc. in one state-of-the-art box, that is supposed to be the flagship of the coorporation in guitar technology.
This is NOT a guitar synth, even that it has some built-in sythesized sounds, it is built on a technology Roland is calling "COSM" (Composite Object Sound Modelling). Rather it models different guitar/amps/other stringed instruments through the technology of HEX-pickup systems, which is the same as guitar-synth technology though. It builds on that every string has its own pickup, rather than 1-pole/string that makes up the total signal. Therefore, every string can be manipulated individually in the unit - which gives a lot of of options. It supports Fenders "Roland-ready" guitar as well as HEX-pickup compatible guitars from Godin, Brian Moore etc.
This unit is the new version of the VG-88 that was first released in 2000, that in turn was the successor to VG-8 released in the mid 90's. Several improvements has been made since then, and the VG-99 is now a fully fledged modelling system with stunning opportunities.
Product Description
The unit is non-rack standard even though it can be rack-mounted with some additional mounting parts. Rolands suggests that the unit shall be used on a stand instead, which is really a good idea, when it comes to controlling the unit via the D-Beam and the Ribbon-controller. (the former versions were floor-based) The only drawback here is that in order to take full advantage of the unit, a stand + the FC-300 controller and a HEX-pickup + cable also must be purchased. (which will add some 500-600€ to the prize above, the FC-300 controller is about 300€ alone)
Top view:
All of the units parameters/knobs are located on the top of the unit and is logically placed. It also features the Ribbon-control and the D-Beam. Also the input from the HEX-cable goes here and the on/off button. The display is good and is clearly visible even in bad light. It has shortcuts for pre-programmed "chains" of sound as well as a visible tuner.
Rear view: On the back of the unit goes all different connectors, which is quite a few. Nothing is really missing here. There is even a digital out as well as balanced outputs, USB to computer (which is really great) and MIDI in/out that can be used for controlling the unit/send the signal to guitar-synths/computers etc.
Sound
Feel
Overall Impression
Alternative Weapon
== Sound Samples ==¨ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYEz192vaPs
(Feel free to add other headings as appropriate for your review)
