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Roland VS-880EX
by driver8
The VS 880EX is an extremely powerful Digital Studio. The basics are fairly straightforward, recording multiple tracks, adding effects, mixing etc. Where it comes unstuck for me is the complexity of the other functions and the the jargon that's used throughout the manuals. My first recommendation is that unless you ... really understand studio recording techniques and jargon avoid the VS 880EX. If you are an amateur (like me) then something simpler would be a better place to start.
If like me you can't resist the buttons then get a hold of the video, available from Roland. It was out of stock the last time I looked but it is much better than the manuals.
On the product itself, the basics are dead straightforward, the inputs are comprehensive, and the instructions straightforward. There are digital inputs if you want to record something to play along with, which I find extremely useful.
Applying effects is very straightforward and some of the guitar ones are excellent, I'm particularly fond of the 'Jet Lead' effect, although there are probably 200 to choose from, which can be applied pre- and post fader. At a very simple level you could always use the VS880-EX as an expensive effects processor!
The small screen however is complicated and difficult to understand. The manuals are mostly helpful although the following quote stretches my understanding: "Signals assigned to the effect bus are sent to the effect to apply effects added to them" Huh?
I playback the VS880 via a hi-fi amp and speakers, which works just fine for me.
In summary, the VS 880-EX has an incredible range of capabilities but unless you really understand how studios work you may end up like me and only be using a tiny fraction of it's capabilities. If you're in the same situation as me then I suggest you buy something a little less powerful.
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Roland - XP-50
by wigwam
Now selling secondhand for about £600, this keyboard is a bit of a bargain in my opinion. Basically a JV1080 module with a keyboard and sequencer attached the only thing lacking is separate outputs, just a stereo pair, but if you are multitracking, no problem. The sound engine is ROM wave based and is of as good quality, not as clean as ... say a Korg Trinity, but suitable for a majority of musical styles. 64 voice polyphonic, I have used it for complete arrangements without running out of voices. Analog style sounds are possible but require a bit of work. The sequencer is easy to use but you need to do a lot of thinking and working out in your head because the lcd display is a bit small by today's standards. Drawbacks, there are a couple, General Midifiles can give this unit a problem is over complex, although I have yet to find a problem with commercially purchased files. Secondly, only one multi effects processor available, but perhaps that's getting a bit greedy for £600. A programmer's dream there are plenty of options for sound creation and most importantly the wave rom can be expanded using Roland own Expansion cards.
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Roland JV-1080
by wigwam
Currently available for about £500-£600 secondhand and in some cases new this module is excellent value for money. Why?, its still being used in studios today and the sounds the unit is capable of are varied and suited to many styles of music. Expansion capabilites are extensive varying from Orchestral to Vintage Synth. Many ... 'Dance' type sounds are possible and its suprising easy to program given its small interface. The multi effects section is very usable and adds considerably to the variety of sounds possible. The Korg Trinity is a cleaner sounding instrument but in many styles of music that is not necessarily an advantage. Good Buy at the current price levels.
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