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INTRODUCTION |
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With
the introduction of the VS-2480 Roland makes an important step toward
the realization of an integrated music production system capable
to carry out on its own all the production needs: tracking, editing,
mixing, mastering and CD-R burning.
Compared to the other models of the VS series, the VS-2480 appears
particulary fullfilled with a high number of available tracks, many
I/O options and the ability to easily interface itself with external
devices.
The set of available filters, dynamic processors and effects is
also very large, so that complex projects can be carried out using
exclusively the internal tools.
Working with the VS-2480 is easy and fast even if there are so many
options and possibilities, thanks to a high-resolution graphic interface,
motorized faders and support for mouse and VGA monitor.
Technical
Details
Software
Updates
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MAIN
PLUS |
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I/O
options. Sixteen balanced analog inputs, eight mic inputs with
Phantom power and one Hi-Z input useful to directly connect an electric
guitar are the basic I/O features of the VS-2480.
As for digital I/O, two S/PDIF interfaces (optical and coaxial format)
can be used indipendentely. Two R-BUS connectors located on the
rear panel allow, using external interfaces, to add sixteen more
I/O channels in the desired format: anlog, AES/EBU, TDIF or Adat
Optical.
Finally there are eight balanced analog outputs (TRS jack) assigned
respectively to Master L/R Out, to Monitor L/R Out and to four auxiliary
outs for using with external signal processors.
Anyway all inputs and outputs are freely assignable thanks to the
internal routing system that allows to make custom configurations
for every kind of application.
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User
interface. The VS-2480 panel allows efficient management of the
numerous functions available thanks to its clear layout. Every control
has different functions depending on the active operating mode and
on the current context.
So many buttons, lights and labels may appear confusing at first,
but as soon as the various procedures become familiar working on the
VS-2480 gets fast and extremely practical. The user interface best
features anyway are support for the VGA monitor, very useful in order
to display many parameters at once in a clear way, and motorized faders.
Mouse operation makes things even easier (it is possible, for example,
to drag graphically EQ curves or to move a sound position in a Surround
5.1 environment).
Automation. All the VS-2480 functions can be automated. For
each Project 100 complete configurations of mix parameters can be
stored and easily recalled simply pressing one button. Fader movements
recorded in Automix mode can be displayed graphically and edited with
a high degree of precision.
Size. Thanks to its limited dimensions and weight the VS-2480
can be easily carried away and employed anywhere. This is particulary
useful in remote recording situations, because all the tools necessary
for recording and editing audio materials are integrated in one single
device.
Q/P ratio. Considering the number of available tracks and the
high quality of the various tools the VS-2480 price is a very good
value if compared with similar products. |
INTERNAL
ARCHITECTURE |
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The
VS-2480 internal structure is based on two different mixers: the
first one (Input Mixer) controls the input channels (analog and
digital) and their assignation to the tracks, while the second one
(Track Mixer) controls the recorded tracks.
This kind of management is very practical, and allows working indipendentely
on input channles and on monitoring.
Both mixers can use filters and dynamic processors and, used together,
can manage up to 64 channels (inputs, tracks and effect returns).
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CONCLUSIONS |
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The
VS-2480 is a one-of-a-kind product that could substitute many devices
normally found in a music production setup, adding the plus of working
with a single user interface.
The integration among the various modules is great, and connection
of external processors is always possible, as well as synchronization
with other recorders.
With the Virtual Fader function any MIDI device can be controlled
directly from the VS-2480 panel.
The VS-2480 is a very reliable product, and all its parts belong to
a very high quality standard. |
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