VS-880EX Pro/Con

[Huaxtec]

Hey all you Roland users,

I am contemplating purchasing the VS-880EX in the near future and I was wondering what you all felt the pros and cons of this multitrack are? Would you recommend this for someones first digital recorder? Are there better 8 tracks out there for band recording? All opinions welcome Thanks in advance....

 

[SWG]

Well, I got my 880ex a little over a month ago and have never once regreted buying it.
It is my first multi-track recorder of any kind and it seems like I won't need to upgrade anytime soon. So far I'm basically using it to record live jam sessions with my band and it's amazing the quality recordings I'm getting with just 6 tracks. I can't really give too much of a review of the unit itself because I am still adapting to the vast features it has to offer. The only con thus far would have to be the shitty manuals that you get with it, seem more confusing than helpful at times. All in all, depending on the time you put into it, you can get some real nice recordings on this machine. It's definately worth buying in my opinion.

Bill

 

[Jon X]

I think it's a good choice if you want a portable, stand alone digital recorder. Consider the computer route if you have a good machine already, but if portability is a concern, the 880 is great. I've had the original model 880 for 3 years and it's still going strong so far. I haven't even replaced the hard drive.

I absolutely agree on the manual. It's so bad that they would be better off not sending a manual and telling people to go to the Internet and find a resource, as there are lots better "manuals" out there. Even the Roland application guides that can be downloaded from their site are better than the thing they sent in the 880 box. For other cons check the other thread in this forum.

 

[T57Strat]

Pros: You can get a great digital sound with up to 128 virtual tracks. The bounces are usually as clean or cleaner than the original tracks. You can burn straight to CD or cassette. It is small, lightweight and has some tremendous effects built in. For live recording it is easy as hell to carry around and is built pretty durably.

Cons: It will take you months to figure out how to use it, but I am sure the good people here will help you out with any questions. You can email me for an overview of a little manual we have put together. You only get six tracks at once to record live on. You have to use Roland's proprietary software for back up and CD burning. Roland is notorious for putting a new better unit out right after you buy yours. You might want to wait a few months, I think they are about to come out with an 1880, which would make the 1680 more affordable. If you could afford it, I would step up to the 1680.

I don't regret buying my 880ex. Digital sound is digital sound. It's all 1's and 0's. I have gotten some tremendous sounds out of it and know a lot of other people who have as well.

Good luck. That's all I can offer.