RC-20XL RC-20XL

Phrase Recorder Phrase Recorder
Realtime Phrase Recording and Sampling Realtime Phrase Recording and Sampling
Whether for use onstage or at home, the new RC-20XL will add depth and excitement to your performances Whether for use onstage or at home, the new RC-20XL will add depth and excitement to your performances by allowing you to layer phrases in real time as many stacks as you like until you fill up the 16 minutes of by allowing you to layer phrases in real time as many stacks as you like until you fill up the 16 minutes of ample recording space on the RC-20XL. Explore the expressive options of sound-on-sound performance ample recording space on the RC-20XL. Explore the expressive options of sound-on-sound performance by layering your own phrases to create a massive one-person band experience. Build the ultimate solo, by layering your own phrases to create a massive one-person band experience. Build the ultimate solo, and do it all live in real time. and do it all live in real time.
*Actual product appearance may be subject to change. *Actual product appearance may be subject to change.
*Actual product appearance may be subject to change.
Super long recording time: up to 16 minutes! Super long recording time: up to 16 minutes! Save up to 11 loops at a time Save up to 11 loops at a time Undo function makes it easy to create Undo function makes it easy to create perfect loops perfect loops
Built-in auto quantize for simple and Built-in auto quantize for simple and accurate loop timing accurate loop timing Change loop tempo without changing pitch Change loop tempo without changing pitch Footswitchable loop select (with optional Footswitchable loop select (with optional FS-5U/FS-6) FS-5U/FS-6)

2004 Roland Corp. U.S.

Faxback Number 10755

Page 1 of 2

The RC-20XL picks up where the popular RC-20 leaves off, as it... offers more recording time and more features, but at the same The RC-20XL picks up where the popular RC-20 leaves off, as it affordable price as its predecessor. The RC-20XL inherits the offers more recording time operation from the RC-20:the same same hands-free pedal and more features, but at Record, affordableOverdub can be done with the left pedal all the while Play, and price as its predecessor. The RC-20XL inherits the samehands are freepedal operation from the But now Record, your hands-free to play your instruments. RC-20: you get Play, and Overdub can be done with thetime pedal alland while approximately 16 minutes of recording left to capture the store your hands are free to play your instruments. But now and you loops or one-shot phrases (three times that of the RC-20), you get approximately 16 minutes of recording time to capture and store can work your way backward thanks to the new Undo function, loops or one-shot phrases (three times that of the RC-20), and you a necessity when making mistakes during overdub. can work your way backward thanks to the new Undo function, a necessity when making mistakes during overdub.
More, Better More, Better
The RC-20XL has 11 memory tracks, in which you have the... choice of storing either one-shot phrases or loop phrases. During The RC-20XL has you memory tracks, in which tracks with the your performance, 11 can switch between the you have an choice of FS-6 Dual Footswitch, or two loop phrases. During optional storing either one-shot phrases or FS-5U footswitches your performance,The Undo function can be a the tracks with an (momentary-type). you can switch between useful and musical optional for erasing your previous phrase and instantly layering function FS-6 Dual Footswitch, or two FS-5U footswitches (momentary-type).you have dazzled your be a useful and musical a new one. After The Undo function can crowd, now its time to function for erasing your previous phrase and instantly layering bring it to an end. The RC-20XL offers three stop options for this a new one. Afteryou hit thedazzled you can either immediately purpose. When you have pedal, your crowd, now its time to bringthe playback,Thethe phrase offersuntil the end, or fade it out. stop it to an end. let RC-20XL play three stop options for this purpose. When you hit the pedal, you can either immediately stop the playback, let the phrase play until the end, or fade it out.

Performance Tools Performance Tools
Total Control From the Floor
Complex, multi-layered performances can be created in real-time with RC-20XL. Tap Complex, multi-layered performances can into powerful performance features such as be creatednew Stop options,RC-20XL. Tap One-Shot, in real-time with and Two-Way into powerful performance features such as Phrase Shifting. One-Shot, new Stop options, and Two-Way Phrase Shifting.
You can control the direction of phrase-shift by using a pair of footswitch. You can control the direction of phrase-shift by using a pair of footswitch.

Setting Setting

Output Output

FS-5U FS-5U

FS-6 New FS-6 New

RC-20XL Specifications

Input Impedance Inst: 1 M, Mic: 1 k, Aux In: 47 k Nominal Output Level Output: -20 dBu Output Impedance 1 k Recommended Nominal Input 10 k or greater (variable), Mic: -40 dBu (variable), Aux In: Load ImpedanceLevel Inst: -20 dBuInternal Memory Recording time: 16 min. -10 dBu Input Impedance saved phrases 11 phrases (max.) Connectors (max.) Maximum number ofInst: 1 M, Mic: 1 k, Aux In: 47 k Nominal Output Level Output: -20 dBuMicOutput Impedance type), Recommended Inst jack (1/4 inch phone type), jack (1/4 inch phone 1 k Aux In jack (Stereo Load Impedance 10 k or greaterjack (1/4 inch TRS phone type), Reverse min. miniature phone type), Phrase Shift Internal Memory Recording time: 16 jack (max.) Maximum number of savedinch phone11 phrases Adaptor jack Power (1/4 inch phone type), Output jack (1/4 phrases type), AC (max.) Connectors

-10 dBu

Nominal Input Level Inst: -20 dBu (variable), Mic: -40 dBu (variable), Aux In: RC-20XL Specifications
Inst jack (1/4 inch phone type), Mic jack (1/4 inch phone type), Aux In jack (Stereo miniature phone type), Phrase Shift jack (1/4 inch TRS phone type), Reverse jack (1/4 inch phone type), Output jack (1/4 inch phone type), AC Adaptor jack Power
DC 9V: Dry battery (R6/LR6 (AA) type) x 6, AC Adaptor (PSA-series) Power Consumption 120 mA (9 V max.) Dimensions 173 (W) x 158 (D) x 57 (H) mm, 6-13/16 (W) x 6-1/4 (D) x 2-1/4 (H) inches Weight 1.2 kg / 2 lbs 11 oz (including DC 9V: Dry battery (R6/LR6 (AA) type) x 6, battery (AA (PSA-series) Library batteries) Accessories Owners Manual, DryAC Adaptor type) x 6, SoundPower Consumption 120 mA (9 V CD) Dimensions 173 (W) x 158 (D) x 57 (H) mm, for RC-20XL (Sample Phrase max.) Options AC Adaptor (PSA-series), Foot Switch 6-13/16 (FS-5U) (W) x 6-1/4 (D) x 2-1/4 (H) inches Weight 1.2 kg / 2 lbs 11 oz (including batteries) Accessories Owners Manual, Dry battery (AA type) x 6, Sound Library * 0 dBu=0.775 Vrms for RC-20XL (Sample Phrase CD) Options AC Adaptor (PSA-series), Foot Switch * Specifications are subject to change without notice. (FS-5U) * 0 dBu=0.775 Vrms * Specifications are subject to change without notice.

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Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: USING THE UNIT SAFELY and IMPORTANT NOTES (separate sheet). These sections provide important information concerning the proper operation of the unit. Additionally, in order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp of every feature provided by your new unit, Owners manual should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.
* The Mini Guide on the back of the RC-20XL provides a simple explanation of use. You can use it as a reminder of operational procedures.

Main Uses

Here are some ways in which the RC-20XL can be used. You can use your own creativity to come up with other ways to enjoy using the RC-20XL. Sound On Sound performance New sound on sound possibilities let you combine performances not only of guitar, but also vocals, percussion, and drum pads.. Create loop phrases You can record phrases from a sampling CD or MD, and overdub guitar or vocals. Switch loops while you perform live Multiple R&B or techno phrase loops can be stored, and selected successively while you perform (Phrase Shift)... As a phrase trainer Play your guitar while playing back phrases recorded from a CD or MD. Practice at a different tempo without changing the pitch.. Erase the guitar solo or vocal when recording, to create minus-one data for practicing (Center Cancel).... As a backing device Phrase trainer with a pedal that lets you start/stop or select phrases (One-shot Playback).... Special effects during a live performance Reverse-playback of a recorded phrase....

p. 12 p. 14

p. 24 p. 18 p. 21 p. 20

p. 22 p. 27

Contents
Contents.... 2 Main features... 3 Panel Descriptions... 4
Front Panel.... 4 Rear Panel.... 7
Installing batteries... 8 Making connections.... 9
Turning the power on/off... 10 Important <Caution when turning off the power>.. 11
Recording a guitar or vocal performance to create a loop phrase. 12 Recording a phrase from CD/MD to create a loop phrase. 14 Playing/overdubbing along with a saved phrase.. 18 Using the RC-20XL for practicingPhrase Trainer.. 20
Creating minus-one data.... 20 Practicing at a different tempo... 21
Playing back in various ways... 22
Playing a phrase only once (One-shot Playback).. 22 Selecting the Method of Stopping Playback (Stop Mode).. 23 Using the pedal to switch phrases (Phrase Shift).. 24 When connecting two FS-5U.. 26 Play back a phrase backward (Reverse Playback).. 27
Saving or deleting a phrase.. 28
About memory.... 28 Saving a phrase... 29 Erasing a saved phrase (Delete)... 31 Write Protect mode.... 31
About the tempo and time signature... 32
What is Loop Quantize?.... 32 Setting the tempo.... 33 Setting the time signature... 34
About the guide tone... 35 Troubleshooting... 36 Specifications... 38 Index.... 39
Copyright 2004 BOSS CORPORATION All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of BOSS CORPORATION.

Main features

Simple and reliable loop play
The new loop quantize function automatically adjusts the timing of the loop end. This makes it easy for anyone to create looped phrases of an accurate length.
Up to 16 minutes of extended phrase recording
You can save up to eleven different loop phrases for a total of 16 minutes of recording.
Overdubbing undo/redo capability
If you make a mistake in overdubbing, you can cancel the action and restore the data to its condition before the overdub (undo). And if after undoing the overdub you decide that you want to use it after all, you can cancel the undo and restore the data to the state it was in right after the overdub (redo).
Control the phrase tempo in real time
The tempo of a phrase can be controlled in real time without affecting its pitch. A phrase recorded into internal memory can be made to match the tempo of a live performance, opening up new possibilities during a gig. This feature is also useful when you wish to slow down the tempo of a guitar phrase to learn and practice it.

Panel Descriptions 4 MIC Knob This knob adjusts the input level from the MIC jack. INST Knob This knob adjusts the input level from the INST jack. PEAK Indicator This indicator will light when the level of the input is excessively high. 5 REVERSE Button Turn this button on (indicator lit) when you want the phrase to play back in reverse (p. 27). 6 TAP TEMPO Button This button is used to set the tempo or time signature. The indicator will light to indicate the current tempo and time signature (red on the first beat, green on subsequent beats). Tempo Specify the tempo by the interval at which you press the button (p. 33). Time signature When you press and hold the button for two seconds or longer, it will switch to time signature setting mode. Then press the button the number of times that is equivalent to the numerator of the desired time signature (p. 34). When this button is pressed while the SHIFT (EXIT) button is held down, it functions as the GUIDE SELECT button, allowing you to switch the guide sound (p. 35). 7 WRITE Button This button is used to save a recorded phrase into internal memory (p. 29). When this button is pressed while the SHIFT (EXIT) button is held down, it functions as the DELETE button, allowing you to delete the phrase on the selected track (p. 31). 8 EXIT (SHIFT) Button This button is used to halt a phrase save or delete operation. This is also used as a SHIFT button for switching the functions of other buttons. 9 AUTO START Button Turn this button on (indicator lit) if you want recording to begin simultaneously when the performance begins. When this button is pressed while the SHIFT (EXIT) button is held down, it functions as the LOOP/ONE SHOT button, allowing you to switch between phrase playback and one-shot playback for phrases saved to the selected track (p. 22). * You cannot switch anything if there is no phrase saved (both the LOOP PHRASE and ONE SHOT PHRASE indicators are off). The unit remains set to loop playback. 10 MODE Button This button selects the recording method. When this button is pressed while the SHIFT (EXIT) button is held down, it functions as the STOP MODE button, allowing you to select the stop mode (p. 23).

fig.02-02

POWER Indicator This indicator will light when the power is on. * When the batteries run down, the POWER indicator will become dim. When this occurs, please replace them with new batteries. 12 REC Indicator This indicator will light during recording. PLAY Indicator This indicator will light while a phrase is playing. OVERDUB Indicator This indicator will light during overdubbing.
Left Pedal Provides for switching among phrase recording, playback, and overdubbing. A phrase track in which no phrase is recorded: recording playback overdubbing A phrase track in which a phrase has been recorded: playback overdubbing You can undo the most recent overdub by holding down the pedal for at least two seconds. When you undo an overdub, the OVERDUB indicator flashes. By holding down the pedal for at least two seconds after an undo, you can restore (redo) the cancelled overdub to its condition before the undo. When you redo an overdub, the OVERDUB indicator flashes. 14 Right Pedal This stops recording, playback, overdubbing of the phrase. and
You can set the tempo to the timing at which you press the pedal. If you press and hold the pedal for two seconds or longer, the unsaved phrase will be deleted (clear; p. 28).

Rear Panel

fig.02-03
INST Jack A guitar or other instrument can be connected to this jack. 16 MIC Jack Accepts connection of a microphone. Used when you wish to record a vocal or instrumental performance via a microphone. 17 AUX IN Jack Connect to the headphones jack of a CD or MD. 18 PHRASE SHIFT Jack If you wish to use a pedal to switch the phrase track, connect a pedal switch (sold separately; e.g., FS-5U) to this jack. * You can connect two FS-5U pedals using the special connection cable (the optional Roland PCS-31) (p. 26).
REVERSE Jack If you wish to use a pedal to play back the phrase in reverse, connect a pedal switch (sold separately; e.g., FS-5U) to this jack. 20 OUTPUT Jack Connect a guitar amp or monitor speaker to this jack. * If you are using batteries, the power will be turned on when you insert a plug (for connection to an amp or speaker) into the this jack. NOTE: Do not connect headphones to this jack. Doing so may damage the headphones. 21 AC Adaptor Jack Connect an AC adaptor (sold separately; BOSS PSA series) to this jack.

Making connections * Howling could be produced depending on the location of microphones relative to amp. This can be remedied by: 1. Changing the orientation of the microphone(s). 2. Relocating microphone(s) at a greater distance from speakers. 3. Lowering volume levels. * If the amp and microphone are close together, the sound played back from the amp may be picked up by the microphone. If you record or overdub in such a state, the amp playback picked up by the microphone will also be recorded. You should separate the amp and microphone so that the playback from the amp is not picked up by the microphone.

Turning the power on/off

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. When turning the power on: Turn on the power of the amp or mixer last. When turning the power off: Turn off the power of the amp or mixer first. * Always make sure to have the volume level turned down before switching on power. Even with the volume all the way down, you may still hear some sound when the power is switched on, but this is normal, and does not indicate a malfunction. * If you are using batteries, the indicator will become darker when the batteries run down. Please replace the batteries as soon as possible. When turning on the power while a recorded track is being selected (the LOOP PHRASE or ONE SHOT PHRASE indicator is lit), the indicators on the front panel flash in a sequential order, and the LOOP PHRASE or ONE SHOT PHRASE indicator flashes rapidly for a few seconds.
Important <Caution when turning off the power>
Before you turn off the power, make sure that the following conditions are met. All saved data may be lost if the power is turned off inappropriately. You must not be playing/recording/overdubbing a phrase (The REC, PLAY, and OVERDUB indicators must not be lit) The WRITE indicator or EXIT indicator must not be lit The LOOP PHRASE or ONE SHOT PHRASE indicator is not flashing rapidly If you are using batteries, the power will be turned off automatically when the connector plug to your amp or speaker is unplugged from the OUTPUT jack. Before unplugging this connector, make sure you check for the above states. To avoid problems, select an empty phrase track whenever possible, and turn off/ on the power.

Recording a guitar or vocal performance to create a loop phrase
On the RC-20XL, the process of recording an additional performance while a recorded performance plays back is called overdubbing. The performance from an instrument or microphone connected to the INST jack or MIC jack can be recorded to create a loop phrase. This lets you enjoy new types of sound-on-sound playing that combine guitar, percussion, or drum pad performances.

fig.05-01

6, 7, 8

(4), 9

1. Select an empty phrase track 2. Select the recording method 3. Adjust the recording level 4. (Tempo setting) 6. Start recording 7. Stop recording, and start playback 8. Start/stop overdubbing 9. Stop playback 10. (Save the phrase) If you wish to save the phrase If you are recording to a tempo 5. (Auto Start setting) If you wish to start recording when the performance begins
1. Turn the PHRASE SELECT knob to select an empty phrase track 111.
If there are any empty phrase tracks, both the LOOP PHRASE and ONE SHOT PHRASE indicators remain off. If there are no empty phrase tracks, or when the LOOP PHRASE and ONE SHOT PHRASE indicators flash, indicating that the memory is full, delete any unnecessary phrases to free up some memory (p. 31).
If the internal memory is used up, recording or overdubbing may stop before you are finished. If this occurs, erase unnecessary phrases (p. 31), and try the operation again.
Press the left pedal to stop recording.
Simultaneously, the recorded phrase will begin playing. Regardless of the timing at which you press the left pedal, the length of the phrase will be automatically adjusted in units of a measure, so that the loop phrase can be created correctly (Loop Quantize p. 32). This means that a certain amount of time may be required from when you press the left pedal until recording stops. The minimum length of time required for a loop phrase is approximately 1.5 seconds. If the phrase youve recorded is shorter than that, the length of the phrase will be adjusted automatically, and then recording will stop (p. 37).
2. Press the MODE button to get the INST & MIC indicator to light. 3. While you produce sound on your microphone or instrument, turn the MIC knob or INST knob to adjust the recording level.
Adjust the volume so that the PEAK indicator lights occasionally.
4. Set the tempo by pressing the TAP TEMPO button or the right pedal several times in time with the tempo of the phrase you wish to record.
* * For details on setting the tempo, refer to Setting the tempo (p. 33). If you are recording a phrase of a time signature other than 4/4, you must also set the time signature (p. 34).
8. If you wish to overdub onto the phrase, press the left pedal.

3. While playing back the CD/MD, use the volume control of the CD/MD player to adjust the recording level.
If you set the tempo before recording, press the TAP TEMPO button or the right pedal several times in time with the tempo of the phrase you wish to record.
* * For details on setting the tempo, refer to Setting the tempo (p. 33). If you are recording a phrase of a time signature other than 4/4, you must also specify the time signature (p. 34).
5. To have recording start simultaneously with playback of a CD or MD, set the AUTO START button to ON (with the indicator lit).
When AUTO START button is on, stop the CD/MD player for now, and put it in playback-ready mode.
6. Press the left pedal to begin recording.
If the AUTO START button is on, recording will begin the moment the CD/MD begins to play. If the AUTO START button is off, recording will begin the moment you press the left pedal. Listen to the sound of the CD/MD, and press the left pedal at the appropriate time. * If the internal memory is used up, recording or overdubbing may stop before you are finished. If this occurs, erase unnecessary phrases (p. 31), and try the operation again.
7. Press the left pedal to stop recording.
Simultaneously, the recorded phrase will begin playing. The tempo of the phrase will also be set automatically. * The automatic tempo setting is calculated with a time signature of 4/4. If you are recording a phrase whose time signature is different, you must specify the time signature before recording (p. 34). The minimum length of time required for a loop phrase is approximately 1.5 seconds. If the phrase youve recorded is shorter than that, the length of the phrase will be adjusted automatically, and then recording will stop (p. 37).
8. Press the WRITE button, getting the indicator to start flashing. When you do so, playback will stop automatically. To save the data in the same phrase track, press the WRITE button once again.
If you wish to save the data in a different phrase track, press the WRITE button (so its indicator is flashing), use the PHRASE SELECT knob to select the desired save destination, and then press the WRITE button once again. * For details on saving, refer to Saving a phrase (p. 29). We recommend that you save the phrase at this point. If you are not content with the results of subsequent overdubbing, you can then cancel only the overdubbing.

9. Press the MODE button to select how overdubbing will occur.
As you did in step 2, select the overdubbing method. If you wish to overdub a performance from guitar or mic, select INST & MIC.
10. Press the left pedal to begin playback. 11. When you wish to overdub (p. 12) along with the phrase, press the left pedal.
Each time you press the left pedal, you will switch between playback and overdubbing modes. To cancel (undo) the most recently recorded overdub, hold down the left pedal for at least two seconds. When you undo an overdub, the OVERDUB indicator flashes. * You cannot undo if the unit only has a slight amount of memory left (the OVERDUB indicator does not flash even if the left pedal is held down for two seconds or more).
To restore (redo) a cancelled overdub, hold down the left pedal again for at least two seconds. When you redo an overdub, the OVERDUB indicator flashes. To undo all overdubbed sounds (clear), hold down the right pedal for at least two seconds. Cleared overdubs cannot be restored. * If the internal memory is used up, overdubbing may stop before you are finished. If this occurs, erase unnecessary phrases (p. 31), and try the operation again.
12. To stop playback and overdubbing, press the right pedal.

<CAUTION>

Unauthorized recording, distribution, sale, lending, public performance, broadcasting, or the like, in whole or in part, of a work (musical composition, video, broadcast, public performance, or the like) whose copyright is held by a third party is prohibited by law. Do not use this unit for purposes that could infringe on a copyright held by a third party. We assume no responsibility whatsoever with regard to any infringements of third-party copyrights arising through your use of this unit. Use of the Sound Library for RC-20XL (Sample Phrase CD) supplied with this product for any purpose other than private, personal enjoyment without the permission of the copyright holder is prohibited by law. Additionally, this data must not be copied, nor used in a secondary copyrighted work without the permission of the copyright holder.
Playing/overdubbing along with a saved phrase

fig.06-02

(4), 7
1. Select a phrase track 2. Select the recording method 3. Adjust the recording level 4. (Adjust the tempo) 5. Start playback 6. Start/stop overdubbing 7. Stop playback 8. (Save the phrase)

Turn the PHRASE SELECT knob to select the phrase that you wish to play first.
* If the phrase has not been saved, it will be deleted when you switch to a different phrase. For more on saving phrases, refer to Saving a phrase (p. 29).
3. Press the left pedal to begin playing the phrase. 4. When you want to switch phrases, press the pedal switch.
The PLAY indicator flashes the same count as the number for the phrase to be played next, then flashes rapidly, and repeats this pattern. The unit switches to the phrase with the next number (or, if that is empty, the phrase after that) at the timing used in returning to the start of the loop. When the phrase is switched, the PLAY indicator flashes the same count as the number for the phrase currently being played, then remains lit, and repeats this pattern. * When the number of the next phrase to be played back matches the phrase number indicated by the PHRASE SELECT knob, the PLAY indicator flashes rapidly, then remains lit when the phrases are switched.
You can advance to any phrase while the current phrase is playing by pressing the pedal switch the corresponding number of times. * Empty phrase tracks are disregarded. For example, when you press the pedal switch one time while the Number 1 phrase is playing, if Number 2 is empty, the unit will switch to Number 3.
Playing back in various ways When you switch to a phrase set to One-Shot Playback, the phrase is played to the end, and then playback stops. If you use Phrase Shift during One-Shot Playback, the phrase is played to the end, then the unit switches to the next phrase. The unit may not switch to the next phrase if you carry out Phrase Shift while the end of the phrase is approaching. Use Phrase Shift while there is still ample time to carry it out. After carrying out the switch operation, you cannot change the tempo or switch to Reverse Playback until the phrases are switched.
5. Press the right pedal to stop playback.
When you start playback again, the phrase played back last is replayed. If you want to play the sequence over again, use the PHRASE SELECT knob or foot switch to return to the start of the sequence. * You cannot save or delete a phrase if it differs from the phrase indicated with the PHRASE SELECT knob. You can also use Phrase Shift with the PHRASE SELECT knob. If, while a phrase is playing back, you turn the PHRASE SELECT knob to select the phrase track that will be played next, the next phrase will begin at the moment that the currently playing phrase returns to the loop start. You can use the foot switch while playback is stopped to select the next phrase you want to play. If you select a phrase other than the one indicated with the PHRASE SELECT knob, the indicator first flashes the number of times corresponding to the currently selected phrase, after which it flashes rapidly, then repeats this pattern. * You cannot save or delete a phrase if it differs from the phrase indicated with the PHRASE SELECT knob. When you want to save the results from overdubbing, first select the phrase with the PHRASE SELECT knob, then overdub.

When connecting two FS-5U
You can connect two FS-5U pedals using the special connection cable (the optional Roland PCS-31). Pressing the FS-5U to which the plug with the white stripe has been connected switches phrase tracks as follows: 123.111. (switches to the next higher track number). Pressing the FS-5U to which the plug with the red stripe has been connected switches phrase tracks as follows: 11109.111. (switches to the previous lower track number).

PCS-31

Set the polarity switch as shown in the figure.

Number up

Number down
Play back a phrase backward (Reverse Playback)
Playing a recorded phrase from the end toward the beginning is called reverse playback. The result is similar to playing a tape in reverse. By pressing the REVERSE button, lighting its indicator, you can use reverse playback. To return to normal playback, extinguish the indicator. Since this can produce unexpected results, it may be useful as a gimmick during a live performance. * If you save a phrase with the REVERSE button turned on, the state of the button will also be memorized. If you will always want a certain phrase to play back in reverse, you should save it with the REVERSE button turned on. (Saving a phrase (p. 29)) If you overdub onto a phrase that plays back in reverse, the sound youve overdubbed is recorded as being for normal playback. When you switch to reverse playback while playback is in progress, the phrase begins to play in the opposite direction, starting from the point in the loop that maintains the loop's duration. This allows you to switch to reverse playback at any point in the phrase you like without changing the duration of the loop. Example: When you switch to reverse playback one measure from the start of the phrase, reverse playback then starts one measure from the end of the phrase. You cannot switch to Reverse Playback under the following conditions. While phrases are being switched (while the PLAY indicator is flashing) While changing the tempo (while the LOOP PHRASE or ONE SHOT PHRASE indicator is flashing) You can also control reverse playback by using the pedal switch instead of the REVERSE button. Connect a pedal switch such as the FS-5U (sold separately) to the REVERSE jack (p. 9). * Pedal switches made by some other manufacturer may operate in the opposite way. Such pedal switches cannot be used. * If you are using the FS-5U, move the polarity switch toward the jack. * The FS-5L cannot be used.
Saving or deleting a phrase

About memory

The memory of the RC-20XL is divided into two areas: phrase tracks 111 and temporary memory.

fig.08-01

Memory

Temporary memory

Record/ Overdubbing

Save Phrase tracks

A phrase that you record or overdub is first stored in temporary memory. The phrase stored in temporary memory is temporary, and will be erased when the following operations occur. When you turn off the power When you select a different phrase track Before you perform any of these operations, make sure to save the phrase in a phrase track if you wish to keep it (p. 29). If the overdubbing produces a phrase that you like, save it to the phrase track before using the next procedure. Once the data is saved to the phrase tracks, it can be called up anytime afterwards. If you wish to erase (clear) only the phrase in temporary memory, press and hold the right pedal for two seconds or longer. What is a phrase track? A phrase track is an area of internal memory in which phrases are stored. Phrases that are saved here will not be lost when the power is turned off. Also, phrases that are saved here can be selected at any time by using the PHRASE SELECT knob. The phrases that can be saved in phrase tracks 111 can have a maximum total length of 16 minutes. You can only change the playback tempo (p. 33) of phrases saved to the phrase tracks. To change the playback tempo of a phrase stored in temporary memory immediately following overdubbing or recording, save it to a phrase track.

Saving a phrase

When you have finished recording/overdubbing, or after you have edited the tempo or other settings of a phrase, you can save it. All phrases that have not been saved are lost when you turn off the power or select a different phrase track.

fig.08-02

1. Press the WRITE button, getting the indicator to start flashing.
The RC-20XL will be ready to save. * * To copy the data, select the copy-source phrase track, and press the WRITE button. You cannot save the phrase if it differs from the phrase indicated with the PHRASE SELECT knob.
2. Use the PHRASE SELECT knob to select the unused or empty track.
* * It is not possible to save to a phrase track that already contains a phrase (the LOOP PHRASE or ONE SHOT PHRASE indicator will be lit). The LOOP PHRASE and ONE SHOT PHRASE indicators flash when there is not enough memory to save the phrase.
3. Press the WRITE button once again to save the phrase. To cancel this operation, press EXIT button.
While the data is being saved, the indicator will light. When saving is complete, the indicator goes out. * * Depending on the length of the phrase, it may take some time for the save to be completed. If you decide not to save, press the EXIT button. However, if you have turned the PHRASE SELECT knob to select another phrase track, the recorded phrase will be lost when you press the EXIT button, and you will switch to the selected phrase.

Never turn off the RC-20XLs power while the WRITE indicator or the EXIT indicator is lit. Doing so will cause all data saved in the phrase tracks to be lost. Please be aware that the contents of memory can be irretrievably lost as a result of a malfunction, or the improper operation of the unit. To protect yourself against the risk of loosing important data, we recommend that you periodically save a backup copy of important data you have stored in the units memory on an MD, or other device. During repairs, due care is taken to avoid the loss of data. However, in certain cases (such as when circuitry related to memory itself is out of order), we regret that it may not be possible to restore the data. Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents of data that was stored in the units memory once it has been lost. Roland Corporation assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.
Erasing a saved phrase (Delete)

fig.08-03

1. Turn the PHRASE SELECT knob to select the phrase track that you wish to delete. 2. Simultaneously press the SHIFT (EXIT) button and the DELETE (WRITE) button to get both indicators to flash.
The RC-20XL will be ready to delete the data. * You cannot delete the phrase if it is not the phrase indicated with the PHRASE SELECT knob.
3. Press the DELETE (WRITE) button to delete the data. To cancel this operation, press the EXIT button.
The indicator will be lit while the data is being deleted, and will go out when the deletion is complete. Never turn off the RC-20XLs power while the WRITE indicator or the EXIT indicator is lit. Doing so will cause all data saved in the phrase tracks to be lost. * It is not possible to delete all phrase tracks in one operation.

Write Protect mode

You can temporarily prevent phrases from being saved or erased. This condition is called Write Protect mode. To select Write Protect mode, hold down the WRITE button as you turn on the power. Confirm that all four indicators to the right of the MODE button are lit, then release the button. This setting will be cleared when you turn off the power, so the next time power is turned on, you will once again be able to save or erase phrases. 31
About the tempo and time signature
The RC-20XL allows you to set the tempo and time signature separately for each phrase. These settings also determine how the guide tone will play, and how loop quantization will occur. This means that if the tempo and time signature are correctly set before recording, it will be easy to create a correct loop phrase. * The default time signature is 4/4. If you are recording a phrase with a 4/4 time signature, it is not necessary to set the time signature.

Unable to change the playback tempo
You cannot change the playback tempo under the following conditions. If the phrase has not been saved If you are using overdubbing While phrases are being switched (while the PLAY indicator is flashing) While you are setting the tempo for phrases that are looped over an interval shorter than the minimum recording time (approximately 1.5 seconds).
Automatically set tempo is odd
When a phrase shorter than the minimum recording time (approximately 1.5 seconds) is recorded with more than five beats set, the guide sound may play half the beats. If this occurs, record the phrase over again with the recording lasting twice as long.

Specifications

Nominal Input Level INST: -20 dBu (variable) MIC: -40 dBu (variable) AUX IN: -10 dBu Input Impedance INST: MIC: AUX IN: 1M 1k 47 k Connectors INST Jack (1/4 inch phone type) MIC Jack (1/4 inch phone type) AUX IN Jack (Stereo miniature phone type) PHRASE SHIFT Jack (TRS 1/4 inch phone type) REVERSE Jack (1/4 inch phone type) OUTPUT Jack (1/4 inch phone type) AC Adaptor Jack Power DC 9V: Dry battery (R6/LR6 (AA) type) x 6 AC Adaptor (PSA-series) Power Consumption 120 mA (9 V max.)
* Expected battery life under continuous use: Carbon: 6 hours Alkaline: 16 hours These figures will vary depending on the actual conditions of use.
Nominal Output Level OUTPUT: -20 dBu Output Impedance 1k Recommended Load Impedance 10 k or greater Internal Memory Recording time: 16 min. (max.) Maximum number of saved phrases: 11 phrases (max.) Controls REC/PLAY/OVERDUB Pedal, STOP/TAP TEMPO Pedal, INST Knob, MIC Knob, PHRASE SELECT Knob, GUIDE Knob, LEVEL Knob, REVERSE Button, TAP TEMPO Button, WRITE Button, EXIT Button, AUTO START Button, MODE Button Indicators POWER (serves also as battery check indicator), REC, PLAY, OVERDUB, PEAK, LOOP QUANTIZE, LOOP PHRASE, ONE SHOT PHRASE, TAP TEMPO, REVERSE, WRITE, EXIT, AUTO START, INST & MIC, NORMAL, CENTER CANCEL, FLAT AMP SIMULATE
Dimensions 173 (W) x 158 (D) x 57 (H) mm 6-13/16 (W) x 6-1/4 (D) x 2-1/4 (H) inches Weight 1.2 kg / 2 lbs 11 oz (including batteries) Accessories Owners Manual Leaflet (USING THE UNIT SAFELY, IMPORTANT NOTES, and Information) Dry battery (AA type) x 6 Sound Library for RC-20XL (Sample Phrase CD) Options AC Adaptor (PSA-series) Foot Switch (FS-5U) * * 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms In the interest of product improvement, the specifications and/or appearance of this unit are subject to change without prior notice.