Jon Gutwillig
Jon Gutwillig, guitarist for the jam-band Disco Biscuits, sees the VG-99 as “the beginning of the future for guitar.” Tune in to this BOSS Tone Radio transcript for details.
Gundy Keller, Paul Hanson, Johnny DeMarco and Robert Marcello take you on a guided tour of the VG-99.
Part two in the series.
Part three in the series.
Adrian Belew talks to Roland about the VG-99 V-Guitar System.
Paul Hanson shows off the VG-99 V-Guitar System during NAMM 2007.

A Milestone in Guitar Modeling and Performance Technology
In the history of guitar modeling, no manufacturer has devoted more time, resources and passion into this market segment than Roland — from the world’s first guitar modeling processor, the legendary VG-8, to its popular V-Guitar predecessors. Today, Roland proudly announces another milestone in guitar modeling and performance technology: the VG-99. With three powerful new processors at its core, plus expressive performance controls such as Ribbon Controller and D BEAM, this remarkable instrument raises the bar in guitar modeling and performance technology.
Multi Modeling
The VG-99 contains an incredible range of COSM-modeled guitars and amplifiers including new electric, acoustic and bass guitar models, a new GR-300 synth wave and much more. It even models two signal paths at once. Complete dual processing of guitar modeling on the VG-99 allows you to play two different guitar sounds simultaneously. For example, one virtual guitar could be a Telecaster® in a vintage Tweed amp with full effects and the other a nylon-string guitar with just a hint of reverb.
Dynamic Control
Both modeled guitar and amp paths can be active at the same time, or they can be dynamically switched or blended. You can control the switching behavior between virtual guitars and/or amps by foot controllers, buttons/knobs on the unit, or according to your picking dynamics. Imagine playing softly for an acoustic-guitar sound, then transitioning to a full metal blast simply by picking more aggressively. Furthermore, each modeled guitar can be separately assigned to individual guitar strings. For example, you could have a 12-string guitar on 1st to 4th string and Synth-bass for 5th and 6th.
Alternate Tunings
The VG-99 can produce custom tunings — anything the player desires on any virtual guitar. A virtual Les Paul®, for example, could be tuned down four or five steps for a heavy sound, while a nylon string could be tuned as a 12-string, and also tuned down four or five steps at the same time. Open and drop tunings are also supported as well as user-defined custom tunings and can be applied to any COSM® guitar, so the player can switch instantly between tuning setups without physically switching guitars or having to manually retune.
Guitar Performance in Higher Dimension
With its new performance-based design, the VG-99 can be placed within a player’s easy reach on stage by using an optional PDS-10 stand. This new style setup allows various new performance possibilities such as D BEAM, Ribbon Controller and more. In combination with the versatile new foot controller FC-300, the VG-99 takes your guitar performance on stage to a whole new dimension.
Most Wanted
You asked for it, now Roland delivers the most-requested new features in the VG-99, including an onboard guitar-to-MIDI converter for direct connection to keyboards, sound modules, soft synths, etc. Audio output via USB or S/PDIF digital out, and optional RAD-99 rack mount adaptor further enhance your music production environment. Built-in stereo XLR and 1/4" outputs are ideal for live stage performances and touring. The striking new on-screen editor makes programming the VG-99 super easy and fun.
Jon Gutwillig, guitarist for the jam-band Disco Biscuits, sees the VG-99 as “the beginning of the future for guitar.” Tune in to this BOSS Tone Radio transcript for details.
As one of the first guitarists to embrace guitar synthesis in the early ’80s with Roland’s GR-300, Adrian Belew has taken guitar tone to the moon and back with Roland. Find out what he’s doing these days with the VG-99.
Find out how this Emmy-nominated composer and multi-instrumentalist uses Roland instruments to create a unique musical personality for some of TV’s top-rated shows.
Padded gig bag for the VG-99 and VB-99.
Rack mount adapter for the VG-99 V-Guitar™ system.
A stand for Roland’s HPD-, SPD-, VG-, and VB-series instruments (including the HandSonic 10, HandSonic 15, SPD-20, SPD-S, VG-99, and VB-99.)
A new standard of power, versatility and innovation for MIDI foot control including bi-directional MIDI data flow to VG-99, patch memory recall, twin expression and control pedals and more.
Attach the GK-3 Divided Pickup to any steel-stringed electric guitar and expand your sonic palette.
Connects GK-compatible guitar gear
A floor pedal unit that allows a GK-equipped guitar to control and switch between two GR-compatible devices.
This is the latest operating system for the VG-99. WARNING: Be sure to refer to the README document as this download contains two separate updates depending on the current operating system being used. A version check will be necessary to distinguish which update should be used.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: When the Windows SmartScreen is displayed upon installing the driver, please perform the following procedure:
1. Click [ More info ]
2. Click [ Run anyway ]
* Skip Step 1 If your PC is not connected to the internet.
This installer includes two programs: VG-99 Editor - a program for editing the parameters for the VG-99 on your computer, and VG-99 Librarian - a program for patch management for the VG-99 on your computer.
Version 1.01a resolves a USB disconnect issue, and issues with SMF import/export.
If you have questions about operating your Roland, BOSS or Cakewalk product, please check our Knowledge Base for answers to the most common questions.
You can also contact our Product Support department by phone or email.
In addition, we have a library of Owner’s Manuals and Support Documents that you can download and reference. If Support Documents are available for this product, they will be listed below.