From aevett1@yahoo.com Tue Jan 26 09:55:41 2010
Subject:Re: Roland VR700 ?

I played the VR-700 at NAMM. From a sound point of view, it's decent: sounds like a slightly improved, tweaked up VK engine. Looks like Roland is trying to compete directly with the Electro, and other electromechanical clones. Has some new features : manual split capabilities, USB /memory stick connectivity, and audio file playback. Also has pianos, e p's, clavs, other keyboard tones. No expansion card capability, though it does have a separate sound bank with, I believe, 256 GM tones.

I wasn't blown away by it. Sounds great - like most new pro 'boards these days; but despite a few new features, it has limits the VR-760 didn't have - especially the lack of SRX, or ARX card expandability.
I would think, for a second generation V-Combo, Roland would have included everything on the original VR-760, the current new features, AND a freakin' set of separate outs for the organ voice. Also, a basic MIDI control set wouldn't have hurt (heck, if you're going to include a Pitch/Mod XY paddle, and MIDI I/O, why not put a simple one channel control interface on board - as included on the Nord Stage).

If Roland had include simple MIDI control, separate outs, and SRX/ARX expandability, I would be taking a serious look at replacing my XK-1 with the VR-700. Other than having a VK Engine, some new rotary sim. capabilities, 76 Keys, and new organ control/manual options, I'm a tad underwhelmed. YMMV though - depending on what you need from the keyboard. Could be a good fit for a lot of players...

________________________________
From: Dave
To: CloneWheel@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Mon, January 25, 2010 8:42:37 AM
Subject: [CWSG] Roland VR700 ?


Did anyone check out the new roland VR700 at NAMM?
It looks interesting but the clips i've heard on Youtube sounded really disappointing with respect to Hammond. They sound very thin and digital but might be just weedy speakers? Anyone get to hear this thing at NAMM?
UKDave





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