Roland Upgrades VS-1680/880EX Software
July 26, 1999
Since its debut, Roland's VS line of Digital Studio Workstations has
taken the music market by storm, shipping more than 100,000 units since
April, 1996. This year, Roland introduces new operating systems for the
popular VS-880EX and VS-1680 models.
The new VS-880EX software upgrade (v. 2.0) includes Roland's new COSM
Speaker Modeling technology-perfect for use with Roland's new DS-90 Powered
Monitors. COSM Speaker Modeling allows VS-880EX users to access a variety
of sonic "models" of the world's most popular studio reference
monitors, from high-end active models to those white-coned studio standards,
as well as TV/radio speakers and more. The user simply switches between
these sonic models and sends the output from his workstation to the digital
inputs of the DS-90's. Using the digital connection, there's no signal
loss and, instead of having to switch between multiple pairs of monitors
at mixdown, users can immediately hear how mixes sound on a variety of
different "speakers."
The VS-880EX upgrade also includes a new "Mastering Tool Kit"
algorithm which prepares audio mixes for optimum CD-recording by including
mastering effects like multi-band compression.
The flagship VS-1680's new "V-Xpanded" software upgrade gives
users 18-track playback capability, allowing users to mix down up to 16
tracks to two additional tracks for mastering-a capability which was not
possible with the original VS-1680. To further its mastering capabilities,
the VS-1680 now also includes the "Mastering Tool Kit" effects
algorithm with split-frequency compression. In addition to other user
interface improvements, the VS-1680's upgrade also includes the new COSM
Speaker Modeling for use with Roland's new DS-90 Powered Monitors.
For more information or to download the software upgrades for free, visit
Roland's web site at www.rolandus.com.
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