XV Editor - Doh!

[Agent47]

I'm such an idiot.

No, really:

I bought a Roland XV5050 synth module about a year ago. While I was waiting for the delivery, I installed some XV editing software I'd downloaded ready for when it arrived. Said software didn't work with it, so I gave up using it while at the same time ignoring the CD-ROM that came in the Roland box...

Throughout the year that followed I figured out how to get to it's MFX settings and part editing via the piddly little orange screen. Endless hours of scrolling and knob-turning to find the patch I wanted.

After a year of much scrolling and button pushing, I finally decided to try installing the XV Editor disc that came with the synth. Oh my God. It connects via USB and basically controls the whole machine, all it's parameters, settings etc. and allows me to back up the various settings. It's a dream to use - I'm now creating new sounds combining various waveforms, fiddling with oscillators, experimenting with effects - it's so much quicker and easier than doing it on the front panel.

I've wasted a year not using the synth to it's full potential. But now I think my creativity has got a new lease of life thanks to the ease of use that the XV Editor provides...

If there's anyone else here as dim as me and not using their XV module with the editor program, then give it a try.

Doh!

I just thought I'd share my excitement with you all...

[ssscientist]

I was found in a similar situation back in the Atari ST days - I think if synth users are honest, many will own up to a mistake of that magnitude. In fact, there may be one or two out there who STILL have not done the equivalent of 'trying the CD that came with the machine'...

[lumbago]

The lack of a decent manual and front panel user interface for the XV-5050 is a classic case of trying to save money where it least makes sense.

The SC-50 Sound Canvas is not dissimilar as a product concept, and has a better front panel interface than its XV successor some 10+ years later.

No - Roland aren't trying to make their devices accessible. Mistake IMHO.

The XV editor, while being powerful, is equally frustrating.

Roland used to hire Adrian Scott (Australia) for product design advice. They should hire him once again.