VariOS

Open System Module

VariOS
Discontinued

Massive New Updates for VariOS!
V-Producer OSX, Modeling Synths and More

* NEW * VariOS-8 and VariOS 303 now with OS X Support!
If you’re a VariOS owner, proceed immediately to the Downloads tab. There you’ll find not only the latest USB drivers and V-Producer 2.1 (with OSX support), but also the new VariOS-8 and VariOS 303 modeling synths. Turn your VariOS module into a virtual Juno/Jupiter synth and TB-303!

VariOS Tips
Packed with techniques for taking advantage of the VariOS in actual music production situations. Go to Downloads tab VariOS is an open-ended hardware/software system that can be customized for different needs. With the bundled V-Producer software, users can create audio-based arrangements while independently manipulating pitch, time and formant. Load the included VariOS-8 and VariOS 303 software, and VariOS can emulate some of Roland’s most popular vintage synths—complete with an impressive array of effects. And since the VariOS module handles all processing, there is no drain on the host computer’s CPU.

The Power of VariPhrase in Your PC

Imagine having a software program that allows you to build complete audio-based productions in real time without draining your computer’s processor. That’s the idea behind VariOS. This open-architecture system combines intuitive V-Producer for VariOS software with a 1U hardware module to create the most powerful audio production system ever conceived. Create complete 6-part audio arrangements while freely manipulating pitch, time and formant. VariOS also comes with separate reverb, chorus and multi-effects so you can process and mix your samples in a plug-in like environment. A simple USB connection is all it takes to be up and running.

Easy Audio Encoding and Arranging

Building a song with VariOS is a simple process. First, browse your computer hard drive for .WAV and AIFF files. V-Producer can then quickly and automatically batch encode the data and transfer it via USB to the module. Once encoded and transferred, you can arrange tracks in V-Producer using simple drag-and-drop commands. Best of all, any audio file can be made to work with another, since VariPhrase permits independent manipulation of pitch, time and formant without unwanted artifacts.

Twist Your Loops with GrooveScope

V-Producer’s GrooveScope window takes reconstructing audio loops to new extremes. First, GrooveScope analyzes the audio and time-slices it into separate events. But here’s where things get really interesting: Not only can these events be re-arranged to create new loops, but each event’s pitch and time can be manipulated graphically without altering the original sound quality. All editing is non-destructive, so you’re free to experiment as much as you please—all in real time. And if you prefer tweaking with knobs rather than a mouse, just twist the VariOS module’s dedicated controls while scanning the audio loop, and V-Producer will faithfully capture all your moves.

Sound Generator
Engine
VariPhrase
Parts
1 to 6
Maximum Polyphony
14 Voices
Internal Memory
Performance: 1, Samples: 128, Wave Memory (RAM): 46 MB, Backup Memory (Flash): 32 MB
External Storage Device
PC Card Slot (Microdrive, SmartMedia or CompactFlash can be used with PC card adapter.)
Sampling Frequency
44.1 kHz (Internal)
Data Format
16-bit linear
Signal Processing
AD Conversion: 24 bits, DA Conversion: 24 bits, Internal Processing: [sound generating section] 32 bits (floating point), [effects section] 24 bits (fixed point)
Nominal Input Level
INPUT (LINE) -18 dBu, INPUT (MIC) -43 dBu
Nominal Output Level
MAIN OUT +4 dBu, DIRECT OUT +4 dBu
Effects
Reverb: 9 sets, Chorus: 1 sets (8 types), Multi: 40 sets
Display
16 characters, 2 lines (backlit LCD)
Connectors
USB Connector, Headphones Jack, Main Output Jacks (L/MONO, R), Direct Output Jacks (L, R), Input Jacks (L, R), MIDI Connectors (IN, OUT), Digital Audio Output: S/P DIF Connectors (COAXIAL, OPTICAL) (24-bit, 44.1 kHz), AC Inlet
Power Supply
AC 117 V, AC 230 V, AC 240 V
Power Consumption
10 W (AC 117 V) 12 W (AC 230 V, AC 240 V)
Accessories
Owner's Manual, CD-ROM, Power Cord, USB Cable, Rackmount Adapter (two pcs.)
V-Producer for VariOS System Requirements (Windows)
Operating System
Microsoft® Windows® XP Home/XP Professional/2000 Professional/Me/98 Second Edition
*Windows® XP/2000 recommended
Computer
Windows®-compatible personal computer equipped with a USB port
CPU/Clock
Pentium®, Celeron™, Intel-compatible Processor / 500 MHz or higher
Memory (RAM)
128 MB or more
Display resolution / colors
800 x 600 pixels or higher / 65,535 colors or more (High Color 16 bit)
V-Producer for VariOS System Requirements (Macintosh)
Operation System
Mac OS 9.0.4 or later, Mac OS X v10.2 or later
Computer
Apple Macintosh computer equipped with a USB port
CPU/Clock
OS 9: PowerPC G3/233 MHz or higher
OS X: PowerPC G3/500 MHz or higher
Memory (RAM)
192 MB or more (256 MB or more is recommended)
Display resolution / colors
800 x 600 pixels or higher / 32,000 colors or more
Size and Weight
Width
430 mm
16-15/16 inches
Depth
222 mm
8-3/4 inches
Height
44 mm
1-3/4 inches
Weight
2.2 kg
4 lbs. 14 oz.
* 0 dBu = 0.775 V rms
*The specifications are subject to change without notice.

Downloads

Updates & Drivers

Support

If you have questions about operating your Roland product, please check our Knowledge Base for answers to the most common questions.
You can also contact our Product Support through Roland Backstage.
In addition, we have a library of Owner’s Manuals and Support Documents that you can download and reference.

Owner’s Manuals

Support Documents

  • VariOS Tips

    Do you want to have the VariOS play a much greater role in the music production process? Do you want to use the VariOS with your sequencer, such as SONAR or Logic? If so, you need to read these pages, which are packed with techniques for taking advantage of the VariOS in actual music production situations.

  • VariOS Spec Sheet
  • Sampler Compatibility Guide

    Check this PDF document for compatible drives and RAM.