Roland Electronic Keyboard RD 300GX User Guide

 
 
USING THE UNIT SAFELY  
The  
symbol alerts the user to important instructions or  
Used for instructions intended to alert the  
user to the risk of death or severe injury  
should the unit be used improperly.  
warnings.The specific meaning of the symbol is  
determined by the design contained within the triangle.  
In the case of the symbol at left, it is used for general  
cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.  
Used for instructions intended to alert the  
user to the risk of injury or material  
damage should the unit be used  
improperly.  
The  
symbol alerts the user to items that must never  
be carried out (are forbidden). The specific thing that  
must not be done is indicated by the design contained  
within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it  
means that the unit must never be disassembled.  
* Material damage refers to damage or  
other adverse effects caused with  
respect to the home and all its  
furnishings, as well to domestic animals  
or pets.  
The symbol alerts the user to things that must be  
carried out. The specific thing that must be done is  
indicated by the design contained within the circle. In  
the case of the symbol at left, it means that the power-  
cord plug must be unplugged from the outlet.  
Do not disassemble or modify  
Connect the AC adaptor to an outlet of the correct  
voltage  
002c Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its  
008c Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with  
the unit. Also, make sure the line voltage at the  
installation matches the input voltage specified on  
the AC adaptor’s body. Other AC adaptors may  
use a different polarity, or be designed for a  
different voltage, so their use could result in  
AC adaptor.  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not repair or replace parts  
003  
Never attempt to repair this device or replace  
parts. If repair or part replacement should become  
necessary, you must contact your dealer or a  
damage, malfunction, or electric shock  
Roland service center.  
...............................................................................................................  
Use only the included power cord  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not use or store in the following types of  
008eYou must use only the power cord included with the  
device. Do not use the included power cord with  
locations  
004  
• Locations of extremely high temperature (such as  
in direct sunlight, near heating equipment, or on  
a device that generates heat)  
• Near moisture (such as in a bathroom, near a  
sink, or on a wet floor) or in locations of high  
humidity  
• Locations exposed to rain  
• Locations of excessive dust  
any other device.  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not bend the power cord or place heavy  
objects on it  
009  
Do not bend the power cord excessively, or place  
heavy objects on the power cord. Doing so will  
damage the power cord, and may cause short  
circuits or faulty connections, possibly resulting in  
fire or electrical shock.  
• Locations subject to heavy vibration  
...............................................................................................................  
Avoid extended use at high volume  
...............................................................................................................  
Use only a stand that is recommended  
010  
005  
This device, either by itself or used in conjunction  
This unit should be used only with a stand that is  
with headphones, amps, and/or speakers, is  
capable of producing volume levels that can cause  
permanent hearing damage. If you experience  
impaired hearing or ringing in your ears, immedi-  
ately stop using the device and consult a medical  
recommended by Roland.  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not place in an unstable location  
006  
When using the unit with a stand recommended by  
Roland, the stand must be carefully placed so it is  
level and sure to remain stable. If not using a  
stand, you still need to make sure that any location  
you choose for placing the unit provides a level  
surface that will properly support the unit, and  
specialist.  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not insert foreign objects  
011  
Never allow foreign objects (flammable objects,  
coins, wires, etc.) to enter this device.  
keep it from wobbling.  
This can cause short circuits or other malfunctions.  
...............................................................................................................  
...............................................................................................................  
4
 
 
USING THE UNIT SAFELY  
Turn off the power if an abnormality or  
malfunction occurs  
Grasp the plug when connecting or disconnecting  
the power cord  
012bImmediately turn the power off, remove the AC  
adaptor from the outlet, and contact your dealer or  
a service center to have the device serviced.  
• The AC adaptor, the power-supply cord, or the  
plug has been damaged  
102c Always grasp only the plug on the AC adaptor  
cord when plugging into, or unplugging from, an  
outlet or this unit.  
...............................................................................................................  
Periodically wipe the dust off the AC adaptor plug  
103bAt regular intervals, you should unplug the AC  
adaptor and clean it by using a dry cloth to wipe  
all dust and other accumulations away from its  
prongs. Also, disconnect the power plug from the  
power outlet whenever the unit is to remain unused  
for an extended period of time. Any accumulation  
of dust between the power plug and the power  
• The device produces smoke or an unusual smell  
• A foreign object enters the device, or liquid  
spills into the device  
• The device becomes wet (by rain, etc.)  
• An abnormality or malfunction occurs in the device  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not allow children to use without supervision  
013  
In households with children, take particular care  
against tampering. If children are to use this device,  
outlet can result in poor insulation and lead to fire.  
...............................................................................................................  
Manage cables for safety  
they must be supervised or guided by an adult.  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not drop or subject to strong impact  
104  
Ensure that the connected cables are organized  
and managed in a safe manner. In particular,  
014  
Do not drop this device or subject it to strong impact.  
place the cables out of reach of children.  
...............................................................................................................  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not stand or place heavy objects on this device  
Do not share an outlet with an unreasonable  
106  
number of other devices  
Do not stand on this device, or place heavy objects  
015  
on it.  
Do not connect excessive numbers of electrical  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not connect or disconnect the AC adaptor with  
devices to a single power outlet. In particular, when  
using a power strip, exceeding the rated capacity  
(watts/amps) of the power strip may cause heat to  
wet hands  
107c Never handle the AC adaptor or its plugs with wet  
hands when plugging into, or unplugging from, an  
be generated, possibly melting the cable.  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not use overseas  
outlet or this unit.  
016  
...............................................................................................................  
Cautions when moving this device  
If you wish to use this device overseas, please  
contact your dealer or a service center.  
108d: Selection  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not use a CD-ROM in an audio CD player or  
When moving this device, please check the  
following cautions. Then, make sure that at least  
two persons work together in lifting and carrying  
the device, all the while making sure to keep it  
level. When doing so, be careful not to pinch your  
hands or drop the device on your feet.  
DVD player  
023  
If you attempt to play back a CD-ROM in a conventional  
audio CD player or DVD player, the resulting high  
volume may damage your hearing or your speakers.  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not place containers of water on the device  
2
• Disconnect the power cord.  
3
• Disconnect external devices.  
026  
...............................................................................................................  
Do not place containers of water (such as a flower  
Unplug the AC adaptor from the AC outlet before  
vase) or drinks on the device. Nor should you  
place containers of insecticide, perfume, alcoholic  
liquids, nail polish, or spray cans on the device.  
Liquids that spill into the device may cause it to  
malfunction, and may cause short circuits or faulty  
operation.  
cleaning  
109bBefore cleaning the unit, turn off the power and  
unplug the AC adaptor from the outlet (p. 16).  
...............................................................................................................  
If there is a possibility of lightning strike,  
disconnect the AC adaptor from the AC outlet  
110bWhenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in your  
Place in a well ventilated location  
area, disconnect the AC adaptor from the outlet.  
...............................................................................................................  
Keep small items out of the reach of children  
101bWhen using this device and the AC adaptor,  
ensure that it is placed in a well ventilated location.  
...............................................................................................................  
Use only the specified stands  
118aShould you remove the screw of ground terminal,  
keep it in a safe place out of children’s reach, so  
there is no chance of it being swallowed acciden-  
101CThis (RD-300GX) for use only with Roland stand KS-  
12 or KS-18Z. Use with other stand is capable of  
tally.  
...............................................................................................................  
resulting in instability causing possible injury.  
...............................................................................................................  
5
 
Important Notes  
Power Supply  
Care  
301  
401a  
• Do not connect this device to the same electrical outlet as an  
• For everyday cleaning wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth or  
inverter-controlled device such as a refrigerator, microwave  
oven, or air conditioner, or a device that contains an electric  
motor. Depending on how the other device is used, power  
supply noise could cause this device to malfunction or produce  
noise. If it is not practical to use a separate electrical outlet,  
please connect this device via a power supply noise filter.  
one that has been slightly dampened with water. To remove  
stubborn dirt, use a cloth impregnated with a mild, non-  
abrasive detergent. Afterwards, be sure to wipe the unit  
thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.  
Addition  
• If water droplets should adhere to this device, immediately  
wipe them off using a soft dry cloth.  
302  
402  
• The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long  
• Do not use solvents such as benzene, thinner, or alcohol,  
hours of consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a cause  
for concern.  
since these can cause deformation or color change.  
307  
• Before you make connections, you must switch off the power  
Servicing  
on all devices to prevent malfunction and/or speaker damage.  
452  
• If you return this device for servicing, the contents of  
memory may be lost. Please store important contents on a  
USB memory, or make a note of the contents. We take  
utmost care to preserve the contents of memory when  
performing service, but there may be cases when the stored  
content cannot be recovered because the memory section  
has malfunctioned. Please be aware that we cannot accept  
responsibility for the recovery of lost memory content or for  
any consequences of such loss.  
Location  
351  
• If this device is placed near devices that contain large  
transformers, such as power amps, hum may be induced in  
this device. If this occurs, move this device farther away or  
change its orientation.  
352a  
• If this device is operated near a television or radio, color  
distortion may be seen in the television screen or noise may  
be heard from the radio. If this occurs, move this device  
farther away.  
Other Cautions  
551  
352b  
• Stored content may be lost due to a malfunction of the  
• Keep your cell phone powered off or at a sufficient distance  
device or because of inadvertent operation. You should  
back up important content on a USB memory as a  
safeguard against such loss.  
from this device. If a cell phone is nearby, noise may be  
heard when a call is received or initiated, or during  
conversation.  
552  
354a  
• We cannot accept responsibility for the recovery of any  
• Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near  
content lost from internal memory or USB memory, or for  
the consequences of such loss.  
devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed  
vehicle, or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes.  
Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.  
553  
• Do not apply excessive force to the buttons, knobs, or  
355b  
input/output jacks, since this may cause malfunctions.  
• If you move this device between locations of radically different  
554  
temperature or humidity, water droplets (condensation) may  
form inside the device. Using the device in this condition will  
cause malfunctions, so please allow several hours for the  
condensation to disappear before you use the device.  
• Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.  
556  
• When connecting or disconnecting cables, grasp the plug  
(not the cable) to prevent short circuits or broken  
connections.  
358  
• Do not leave objects on top of the keyboard. This can  
558a  
• Please enjoy your music in ways that do not inconvenience  
cause malfunctions such as failure to sound.  
other people nearby, and pay particular attention to the  
volume at nighttime. Using headphones will allow you to  
enjoy music without having to be concerned about others.  
360  
• Depending on the material and temperature of the surface  
on which you place the unit, its rubber feet may discolor or  
mar the surface.  
You can place a piece of felt or cloth under the rubber feet  
to prevent this from happening. If you do so, please make  
sure that the unit will not slip or move accidentally.  
559a  
• When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box  
(including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise,  
you will need to use equivalent packaging materials.  
561  
• Use only the specified expression pedal (EV-5/7; available  
separately). Connecting a pedal made by a different  
manufacturer may cause this device to malfunction.  
6
 
   
Important Notes  
Add  
USB Memory Handling  
• Do not use benzine, record cleaner spray or solvents of any  
kind.  
(Using USB Memory)  
704  
Add  
• When connecting USB memory, firmly insert it all the way  
• Do not bend the disc. Bending discs may prevent proper  
in.  
reading and writing of data, and may further result in  
malfunction.  
705  
• Do not touch the pins of the USB memory connector, or  
allow them to become dirty.  
Floppy Disk Handling  
708  
• USB memory is made using high-precision electronic  
(Using Optional Floppy Disk Drive)  
components, so please observe the following points when  
handling it.  
651  
• Floppy disks contain a plastic disk with a thin coating of  
• To prevent damage from static electrical charges,  
discharge any static electricity that might be present in  
your body before handling USB memory.  
• Do not touch the terminals with your fingers or any metal  
object.  
• Do not bend or drop USB memory, or subject it to strong  
impact.  
• Do not leave USB memory in direct sunlight or in  
locations such as a closed-up automobile. (Storage  
temperature: 0–50 degrees C)  
magnetic storage medium. Microscopic precision is  
required to enable storage of large amounts of data on  
such a small surface area. To preserve their integrity,  
please observe the following when handling floppy disks:  
• Never touch the magnetic medium inside the disk.  
• Do not use or store floppy disks in dirty or dusty areas.  
• Do not subject floppy disks to temperature extremes  
(e.g., direct sunlight in an enclosed vehicle).  
Recommended temperature range: 10–50 degrees C  
(50–122 degrees F).  
• Do not allow USB memory to become wet.  
• Do not disassemble or modify USB memory.  
• Do not expose floppy disks to strong magnetic fields,  
such as those generated by loudspeakers.  
Addition  
652  
• When connecting USB memory, position it horizontally with  
• Floppy disks have a “write protect” tab which can protect  
the USB memory connector and insert it without using  
excessive force. The USB memory connector may be  
damaged if you use excessive force when inserting USB  
memory.  
the disk from accidental erasure. It is recommended that the  
tab be kept in the PROTECT position, and moved to the  
WRITE position only when you wish to write new data onto  
the disk.  
Addition  
fig.DiskProtect.e.eps  
• Do not insert anything other than USB memory (e.g., wire,  
Rear side of the disk  
coins, other types of device) into the USB memory  
connector. Doing so will damage the USB memory  
connector.  
Write  
Addition  
(can write new data onto disk)  
• Do not apply excessive force to the connected USB  
memory.  
Protect  
Write Protect Tab  
Addition  
(prevents writing to disk)  
• If you will not be using USB memory for an extended period  
653  
of time, close the USB memory cover.  
• The identification label should be firmly affixed to the disk.  
Should the label come loose while the disk is in the drive, it  
may be difficult to remove the disk.  
CD Handling  
• When handling the discs, please observe the following.  
Add  
654  
• Store all disks in a safe place to avoid damaging them, and  
• Do not touch the encoded surface of the disc.  
• Do not use in dusty areas.  
• Do not leave the disc in direct sunlight or an enclosed  
vehicle.  
to protect them from dust, dirt, and other hazards. By using  
a dirty or dust-ridden disk, you risk damaging the disk, as  
well as causing the disk drive to malfunction.  
801  
• Do not touch or scratch the recording surface of a CD.  
Doing so may render the data unreadable. If a CD  
becomes soiled, clean it using a commercially available CD  
cleaner.  
203  
* GS (  
) is a registered trademark of Roland  
Corporation.  
Add  
220  
• Keep the disc in the case.  
* All product names mentioned in this document are  
trademarks or registered trademarks of their  
respective owners.  
Add  
• Do not keep the disc in the CD drive for a long time.  
Add  
• Do not put a sticker on the label of the disc.  
238  
Add  
* MPEG Layer-3 audio compression technology is  
licensed from Fraunhofer IIS Corporation and  
THOMSON Multimedia Corporation.  
• Wipe the disc with a soft and dry cloth radially from inside  
to outside. Do not wipe along circumference.  
7
 
Front Panel...........................................................................................................................12  
Rear Panel ...........................................................................................................................14  
Turning Off the Power............................................................................................................20  
Adjusting the Volume.......................................................................................................................20  
Adjusting the Display Contrast ([DISPLAY CONTRAST] Knob) ...............................................................20  
Using a USB Memory ......................................................................................................................21  
Connecting a USB Memory....................................................................................................21  
Units of Sound ................................................................................................................................22  
Changing the Reverb Effect Type.............................................................................................33  
Changing the Depth of Reverb Effect .......................................................................................34  
Changing the Sound’s Pitch in Real Time (Pitch Bend/Modulation Lever) ................................................34  
Adding Liveliness to the Sound ([SOUND CONTROL] Button) ...............................................................35  
Adjusting the Levels of Each Frequency Range (EQUALIZER Knobs) .......................................................36  
Changing the Frequency of the Low and High Ranges...............................................................36  
8
 
Changing Rhythm Volume......................................................................................................39  
Changing the Multi-effects Type ..............................................................................................48  
How to Make Settings ...........................................................................................................58  
Adjusting the Damper Noise (Damper Noise)...........................................................................60  
Adjusting the Resonance of the Aliquot Strings (Duplex Scale) ....................................................61  
Adjusting the Resonant Sounds when the Keys are Pressed (String Resonance)..............................61  
Adjusting the String Resonance Produced when a Key is Released (Key Off Reso.)........................61  
Adjusting the Sound of the Hammer Strike (Hammer Noise) .......................................................61  
Precise Modification of Chord Sonorities (Stretch Tune)..............................................................61  
9
 
Switching the Pedal’s Polarity (Damper Polarity/Control Polarity) ................................................65  
Calling Up Setup File (Load SETUP).........................................................................................72  
Deleting a Setup File (Delete SETUP)........................................................................................73  
Copying a Setup File (Copy SETUP) ........................................................................................74  
Copying a Song (Copy SONG)..............................................................................................74  
Deleting a Song (Delete SONG) .............................................................................................75  
Formatting Memory (Format)...................................................................................................76  
10  
 
Changing the Key of the Song Playback (Playback Trans) ..........................................................76  
About the Local Switch...........................................................................................................79  
Troubleshooting ..............................................................................................................................83  
Rhythm Pattern List...........................................................................................................................97  
Setup List........................................................................................................................................98  
Shortcut List ....................................................................................................................................98  
MIDI Implementation Chart...............................................................................................................99  
Main Specifications.......................................................................................................................100  
Index...........................................................................................................................................101  
11  
 
Panel Descriptions  
Front Panel  
1
4
3
2
1. [S1] Button, [S2] Button  
You can assign various functions to these buttons (p. 68).  
assigned functions.  
ZONE LEVEL Sliders  
Adjust the volume level for each Zone (p. 31).  
If the “EXTERNAL” indicator is lit, these sliders control the  
volume of an external MIDI sound module (p. 57).  
Pitch Bend/Modulation Lever  
This allows you to control pitch bend or apply vibrato (p. 34).  
[EXTERNAL/INTERNAL] Button  
generator (p. 55).  
2. VOLUME Slider  
Adjusts the overall volume that is output from the rear panel  
OUTPUT jacks, and PHONES jack (p. 20).  
Sets the range of the keyboard to transposed (p. 32).  
3. EQUALIZER/EFFECTS  
[SPLIT] Button  
This button selects “Split mode,” whereby the keyboard is  
sounds with the right and left hands (p. 29).  
In addition, you can listen to the demo songs by  
(p. 25).  
[LOW] Knob  
Adjusts the sound’s low-frequency range (p. 36).  
[HIGH] Knob  
Adjusts the sound’s high-frequency range (p. 36).  
[SOUND CONTROL]  
Button  
[DUAL] Button  
Switching this on will reduce inconsistencies in the volume,  
and produce a more stable, consistent sound (p. 35).  
Switching this on lets you control external V-LINK  
compatible video equipment connected to the RD-300GX  
(p. 82).  
Switches the RD-300GX to “Dual mode,” which enables  
performances with two separate Tones layered together (p.  
28).  
In addition, you can listen to the demo songs by  
simultaneously pressing this button and the [SPLIT] button (p.  
25).  
[REVERB] Button  
Switches the reverb on/off (p. 33).  
[MULTI EFFECTS] Button  
Switches the multi-effects on/off (p. 47).  
12  
 
                             
Panel Descriptions  
6
7
8
9
5
10  
5. DISPLAY  
8. FUNCTION  
This shows the Tone names and the values of various  
settings, etc.  
[EDIT] Button  
Press this button when you wish to adjust various settings (p.  
63).  
[EXIT/SHIFT] Button  
Pressed to return to a previous screen or to cancel a  
procedure that is in progress.  
[WRITE] Button  
Stores the current settings to Setup (p. 51).  
This also stores the System settings (p. 64) and Piano  
Designer settings (p. 60).  
Additionally, this is pressed simultaneously with other  
buttons to execute various functions.  
[DEC] Button, [INC] Button  
These are used to modify values.  
If you keep on holding down one button while pressing the  
other, the value change accelerates.  
9. SONG/AUDIO KEY  
[SONG/RHYTHM] Button  
Switches Song on/off (p. 40).  
Switches Rhythm on/off (p. 37).  
[ENTER] Button  
This is used to finalize a value or execute an operation.  
[AUDIO KEY] Button  
Switches Audio Key on/off (p. 42).  
6. ONE TOUCH  
10.TONE SELECT Buttons  
Selects the optimum settings for piano performances (p. 26).  
Pressed to select Tones (p. 27).  
[SETUP] Button  
Calls up the stored settings (Setup) (p. 50).  
7. ZONE SELECT Button  
Selects the Zone for which the Tone is to be selected (p.  
31).  
ZONE SELECT Indicators  
13  
 
                         
Panel Descriptions  
Rear Panel  
fig.rear  
1
2 3  
4
5
6
7
9
10 11  
8
1. USB MEMORY Connector  
11.Cord Hook  
CD-ROM drive can be connected here (p. 21).  
Use this to fix in place the cord from the supplied AC  
adaptor (p. 16).  
2. USB MIDI Connector  
You can connect this to your computer so that it can  
3. [DISPLAY CONTRAST] Knob  
Adjusts the display’s contrast (p. 20).  
4. PEDAL Jacks (DAMPER, CONTROL)  
RD-300GX to the DAMPER jack allows you to use the switch  
as a damper pedal. (p. 18)  
With a pedal connected to the CONTROL jack, you can  
then assign a variety of functions to the pedal (p. 68).  
Used for connecting external MIDI devices and for  
transmission of MIDI messages (p. 53, p. 78).  
6. OUTPUT L (MONO)/R Jacks  
Provide output of the audio signals. These are connected to  
MONO jack. (p. 17)  
7. PHONES Jack  
Even when headphones are connected, sound will still be  
output from the OUTPUT jacks.  
8. Ground Terminal (p. 16)  
9. [POWER] Switch  
Switch turns the power on/off (p. 19).  
10.DC IN Jack  
Connect the included AC adaptor here (p. 16).  
14  
 
                         
Getting Ready  
Placing the RD-300GX on a Stand  
If you place the RD-300GX on a stand, you must use the KS-12 or KS-18Z (sold separately).  
When placing the RD-300GX on the KS-12 or KS-18Z, place it in the position shown below.  
Using the RD-300GX with any other stand may produce an unstable situation, possibly causing  
the instrument to fall or overturn, and resulting in injury or damage.  
NOTE  
For details on how to assemble the stand, refer to the owner’s manual that accompanied the  
stand.  
NOTE  
If using the KS-18Z stand  
• Adjust the stand to a level no higher than the fourth level from the bottom.  
• Adjust the width of the stand to the maximum width.  
Seen from the side  
Seen from the rear  
Rubber Feet  
Arm  
Place the RD-300GX  
so that its front edge  
is aligned with the tip  
of the stand’s arm.  
Position the four rubber  
feet located on the  
bottom of the RD-300GX  
so that they are inside  
the arms of the stand.  
If using the KS-12 stand  
• Position the stand so that its arms extend toward the performer.  
• Adjust the stand to the sixth (842 mm) of the seven steps of width.  
Seen from the rear  
842 mm  
Position the four rubber  
feet located on the bottom  
of the RD-300GX so that  
they go into the holes in  
the arms of the stand.  
Rubber Feet  
Arm  
Hole  
Performer  
When placing the RD-300GX on the stand, be careful not to pinch your fingers between the  
instrument and the stand.  
NOTE  
15  
 
       
Getting Ready  
Connecting the AC Adaptor  
5. Loop the AC adaptor cord around the cord  
1. Make sure that the [POWER] switch located at  
hook to fasten it in place.  
the left side of the keyboard is off (in the  
upward position).  
fig.PowerOn.eps  
Upper Position  
Off  
Ground Terminal  
Cord Hook  
2. Move the VOLUME slider all the way down to  
(AC Adaptor)  
Power Cord  
minimize the volume.  
3. Connect the supplied Power Cord to the  
To prevent the inadvertent disruption of power to  
your unit (should the plug be pulled out  
supplied AC adaptor.  
NOTE  
accidentally), and to avoid applying undue stress  
to the AC adaptor jack, anchor the power cord  
using the cord hook, as shown in the illustration.  
Even if the cord is fastened, strong tension applied  
to the cord may cause it to be damaged or  
broken. Be careful not to pull the cord  
AC adaptor  
Power Cord  
AC Outlet  
Indicator  
Place the AC adaptor so the side with the indicator  
(see illustration) faces upwards and the side with  
textual information faces downwards.  
accidentally, or to apply strong pressure to it.  
NOTE  
The indicator will light when you plug the AC  
adaptor into an AC outlet.  
Depending on the circumstances of a particular  
setup, you may experience a discomforting  
sensation, or perceive that the surface feels gritty  
to the touch when you touch this device. This is  
due to an infinitesimal electrical charge, which is  
absolutely harmless. However, if you are  
concerned about this, connect the ground terminal  
(see figure) with an external ground. When the  
unit is grounded, a slight hum may occur,  
depending on the particulars of your installation. If  
you are unsure of the connection method, contact  
the nearest Roland Service Center, or an  
authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the  
“Information” page.  
NOTE  
4. Connect the AC adaptor to the RD-300GX’s DC  
IN jack, and plug the power cord into an AC  
outlet.  
Unsuitable places for connection  
•Water pipes (may result in shock or electrocution)  
•Gas pipes (may result in fire or explosion)  
•Telephone-line ground or lightning rod (may be  
dangerous in the event of lightning)  
16  
 
             
Getting Ready  
Connecting the External Equipment to RD-300GX  
The RD-300GX is not equipped with an amplifier or speakers. In order to produce sound, you  
need to hook up audio equipment such as a monitor speaker or a stereo set, or use headphones.  
Audio cables, USB cables, MIDI cables, headphones, expression pedals, and USB  
memory are not included. Consult your Roland dealer if you need to purchase  
accessories such as these.  
To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices, always turn down the  
NOTE  
volume, and turn off the power on all devices before making any connections.  
fig.00-08e  
Computer  
to Power outlet  
Expression pedal (EV-5/7)  
or Pedal switch (DP Series)  
Stereo  
headphones  
Pedal switch  
(DP Series)  
Monitor speakers  
(powered)  
MIDI IN  
MIDI OUT  
MIDI sound module etc.  
MIDI sequencer etc.  
17  
 
   
Getting Ready  
Before you begin making connections, confirm the following.  
1.  
Is the volume level of the RD-300GX or connected amp turned all the way down?  
Is the power to the RD-300GX or connected amp turned off?  
Connect supplied AC adaptor to the DC IN of the RD-300GX, and plug the other end into  
an AC outlet.  
2.  
3.  
Connect the RD-300GX and external devices.  
Use audio cables to connect audio equipment, such as an amp or speakers.  
Use MIDI cables to connect MIDI devices. Use USB cables to connect computer.  
Connect pedal switches or expression pedals as necessary.  
Use Stereo headphones.  
NOTE  
NOTE  
Use only the specified expression pedal (EV-5/7; sold separately). By connecting any other  
expression pedal, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the unit.  
You can connect a floppy disk drive (sold separately) or a commercially available CD drive to  
the USB MEMORY connector (p. 14). You can use a floppy disk drive or CD drive to play back  
songs from a floppy disk or CD.  
NOTE  
Connecting Pedals  
Connect the pedal included with the RD-300GX to one of the PEDAL jacks.  
When connected to the DAMPER jack, the pedal can be used as a damper pedal.  
Connecting the pedal to the CONTROL jack allows you to assign a variety of functions to the  
pedal (p. 68).  
Set the switch on the included pedal to “Continuous” when the pedal is connected.  
NOTE  
18  
 
         
Getting Ready  
Turning the Power On and Off  
941  
Once the connections have been completed, turn on power to your various devices in the order  
specified. By turning on devices in the wrong order, you risk causing malfunction and/or  
damage to speakers and other devices.  
NOTE  
Turning On the Power  
Before you turn on the power, use the VOLUME slider to minimize the volume.  
1.  
Also completely turn down the volume of any connected audio device and other equipment.  
fig.00-09  
Press the [POWER] switch on the back of the RD-300GX to turn on the power.  
2.  
The unit is powered up, and the display’s backlighting comes on.  
fig.00-10  
Lower  
Position  
On  
To prevent incorrect functioning of the Pitch Bend/Modulation Lever (p. 34), refrain from  
touching the lever while the power to the RD-300GX is turned on.  
NOTE  
This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval (a few seconds) after power up is  
required before the unit will operate normally.  
NOTE  
In the unlikely event the power is turned off or cut off while Factory Reset (p. 77) is in progress,  
the data may become corrupted, and it may require additional time for the unit to start up the  
next time.  
NOTE  
Turn on the power to connected external devices.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
Adjust the volume of the connected external devices.  
Adjust the RD-300GX’s volume to obtain the proper volume level.  
19