Roland A-90EX Expandable Controller
January 18, 1996
The A-90 and A-90EX Expandable Performance Controllers are the most powerful and versatile instruments ever from the Roland A-Series of master keyboard controllers. The A-90 is an extremely flexible, 88-note master controller which features Roland's world renowned PA-4 hammer action keyboard. This specially designed cantilever-based weighted keyboard offers unsurpassed piano feel and realism. The outstanding keyboard on the A-90 has been further augmented with the addition of channel aftertouch. This allows for sophisticated expression through a variety of MIDI functions, including realistic vibrato, effects control and crossfades.
The A-90's control panel features large buttons identical to those found on the favored JD-800 Programmable Synthesizer. These large, easy to use buttons provide instant access to a number of dedicated functions. There is even a separate section on the front panel dedicated to sequencer controls for use with an external sequencer. In total, there are 20 different controllers including a bend lever, pitch wheel, modulation wheel and four assignable sliders.
The MIDI possibilities are massive with a pair of MIDI Ins and four independent MIDI Outs. This allows for control of up to 64 MIDI channels and up to eight zones (four external and four internal or eight external zones are easily turned on or off with the dedicated buttons). Virtually every conceivable setting and configuration can be stored internally or on optional M-512E RAM cards. The A-90 can store 64 patches and with the addition of a RAM card you can store another 64. If you're looking for a powerful, versatile master keyboard, the A-90 definitely fills the bill. But wait ... by adding a specially designed expansion board, the A-90 is instantly transformed into a super combo piano: the A-90EX.
VE-RD1 64-Voice Piano Expansion Board
The A-90 has an expansion slot designed specifically for use with the new VE-RD1 64-Voice Piano Expansion Board. The VE-RD1 is easily user installed and turns the A-90 into the A-90EX -- a monster controller/piano/synth. Once the VE-RD1 is installed, a collection of newly developed waveforms make the A-90EX a completely self-contained instrument. With 128 tones and 64-voice polyphony, the VE-RD1 gives the A-90EX unparalleled expressive capabilities as well as onboard effects to add the finishing touches to all your sounds. The fantastic new "true stereo" piano sample is only one of the highlights on this impressive board. The multiple effects available include reverb, chorus, delay and more. The A-90's expansion slot can also accommodate voice expansion boards like the 16-part multitimbral VE-GS1 and the VE-JV1. For more information, visit their web site at www.rolandus.com. | 
