Roland Clan - Roland Fantom-S and Fantom-X series frequently asked questions
About this document

This is a collection of answers to frequently asked questions concerning the Roland Fantom-S and Fantom-X series workstations and modules. The latest version of this document lives at: http://fantomized.info/docs/faq/Fantomized-FAQ.html.

Questions answered: 59. Document generated at 11:35 on 7 October 2006.

Main author, editor: Artemiy Pavlov. Thanks to: Dave Boulden, Mark Lyon, Nathan Sheldon.

Notes on the instructions:

Table of contents
  1. Hardware questions
    1. What sort of RAM should I buy for my Fantom?
    2. What sort of a storage card should I buy for my Fantom-X?
    3. Why and when should I use balanced cables?
    4. What Fantom-X serial numbers are affected by the bad motherboard problem?
    5. I power on my Fantom, but the screen is blank, what to do?
  2. Software (operating system) questions
    1. How do I check my OS version?
    2. Where can I download the latest OS update?
    3. How do I perform an OS update?
    4. Where do I find older OS versions?
  3. Patches, performances
    1. How do I make a patch in a performance sound the same as when I play it in patch mode?
    2. When I switch from patch to performance mode or vice versa the song's tempo changes!
    3. How can I change the default drum kit that is loaded in PAD part?
    4. When I switch to another patch, controller changes remain the same and affect the next patch. How do I fix this?
    5. What are System Exclusive messages?
    6. The changes I make with the knobs are reset after saving the patch!
    7. Fantom-S and Fantom-X compatibility
    8. Juno-G and Fantom-S/X compatibility
  4. Sequencing
    1. I'm trying to record different sounds on different tracks, but I end up with the same patch (last selected) playing all parts.
    2. How can I record a drum loop on different tracks, like kick on track 1, snare on 2, etc.?
    3. How do I change the volume of one drum sound without affecting the others?
    4. How do I split a track/pattern into other tracks/patterns by different parts (MIDI channels) it contains?
    5. How can I change the tempo in the middle of the song?
    6. How can I set the time signature of my song/pattern to other than 4/4?
    7. Is there a way I can set the loop lengths of my tracks individually?
    8. What are "parts", "channels" and "tracks"?
    9. How do I separate different drum sounds from one track to several tracks?
    10. How can I copy a track/pattern from one song to another?
    11. How can I create a Chain Play list?
    12. I recorded some audio tracks, but I cannot hear them after my Fantom is powered off and then on.
    13. How can I mute/un-mute drum kit sounds with pads or keyboard?
    14. How can I repeat a certain recording several times?
  5. Arpeggiator, rhythm generator, chord memory
    1. How can I make arpeggiator and rhythm generator start in sync?
    2. How can I record more than one different arpeggiated part into the sequencer?
  6. Data management and exchange
    1. How can I put my Fantom into USB storage mode to exchange data with a computer?
    2. Can you explain the user/card area directory/file structure?
    3. How can I delete a song from card/user area?
    4. How can I copy/move data from card to user area or vice versa?
    5. How can I convert a Fantom-S librarian file to Fantom-X librarian format (or vice versa)?
  7. Effects
    1. How can I route my whole patch (rhythm set) to MFX?
    2. How can I route certain individual tones (keys) of my patch (rhythm set) to MFX?
    3. How can set all three MFX in series?
    4. I set the reverb/chorus send levels to the max, but still have none of these effects applied. What to do?
    5. How can I make my drums more tight and punchy?
    6. How can I make the drums sound vintage, like in 1960s?
    7. How can I create those gritty/bit-reduced/lo-fi beats?
    8. How do I assign a controller to adjust an MFX parameter?
  8. Sampling
    1. How do I import WAV/AIFF samples from my computer?
    2. How do I resample my song and transfer it to computer for editing/CD burning/MP3 creation?
    3. How do I sample my 2-bar loop from the sequencer and make a looped sample out of it?
    4. How can I make a sample that I assigned to a key/pad sound wholly without having to hold that key/pad?
    5. How do I set the default sample format (AIFF or WAVE)?
    6. How can I calculate and set the BPM of a loop precisesly?
    7. How can I make a sample fade in (out) in Sample Edit?
    8. I adjusted the start/end points to zero level, but clicks are heard as it loops anyway.
    9. I found a seamless loop but after truncating the sample looping clicks appear.
    10. How can I set the BPM of a sample precisely?
    11. Is there an UNDO/REDO function for Sample Modify?
    12. How can I move the samples from CARD to USER memory?
    13. How can I resample a part and insert it into my song to free up an MFX unit?
Hardware questions
1.1 What sort of RAM should I buy for my Fantom?

You should use PC100 or PC133 RAM DIMMS of the following spec:

Package: 168-pin DIMM
Feature: SDRAM, PC100 or PC133
DIMM Type: Unbuffered
Error Checking: Non-parity or Non-ECC
Speed: 100 or 133MHz
Voltage: 3.3V

Although the PC100 and PC133 formats are now quite old, you should still be able to purchase these modules from most good computer component retailers. The Fantom-S series keyboards support DIMMs up to 256Mb capacity, whereas the Fantom-X series keyboards and XR rack support DIMMs up to 512Mb in size. Whilst we don't specifically endorse these particular items or brands, for your convenience we are providing these links to suitable items from a selection of manufacturers:

1.2 What sort of a storage card should I buy for my Fantom-X?

The Fantom-X series has a type II PCMCIA slot to accept memory cards. Whilst you can buy PCMCIA memory cards, they are both very rare and very expensive. The recommended solution is to buy a "PCMCIA to Compact Flash" adaptor plus a Compact Flash memory card of suitable size. Roland officially guarantees memory cards up to 1 GB to work with the Fantom, however, up to 2.2 GB Compact Flash form factor Microdrives are reported to work well.

The following adaptor and Compact Flash cards are known to work:

1.3 Why and when should I use balanced cables?

The short answer is since the Fantoms main outputs are balanced, if you are plugging it into a mixer, amplifier or powered speakers with balance inputs, then you should use balanced cables - otherwise you will experience a 50% drop in volume. If your mixer/amp/powered speakers have unbalanced inputs then you are advised to use unbalanced cables. For a more detailed explanation of the difference between balanced and unbalanced cables, please check the dedicated "Balanced vs. Unbalanced" document on the main Fantomized site: http://fantomized.info/docs/tutorials/BALANCEDvsUNBALANCED.pdf

1.4 What Fantom-X serial numbers are affected by the bad motherboard problem?

There is no direct link between any particular series or block of serial numbers to Fantoms that exhibit the known motherboard problems. It has been reported, however, that Roland are able to look up your serial number and tell you if it has an old revision motherboard or not.

1.5 I power on my Fantom, but the screen is blank, what to do?

In very rare but still happening cases, especially if you travel with your Fantom or it has been shook during the delivery, the LCD connectors bay may get slightly off it's fixed position and thus the display will stop working. You need to unscrew the bottom panel of your Fantom, and push the connector in firmly. If your Fantom is under a warranty, you may want the service centre to do this for you.

Software (operating system) questions
2.1 How do I check my OS version?

  • Press MENU.
  • Scroll to System, press ENTER.
  • Select System Info.
  • Scroll to Version Info.

2.2 Where can I download the latest OS update?

Fantom-S series: 1.09

Fantom-X series: 1.07 / 2.10 (note: you can't install version 2.x over 1.x without an Audio Track Expansion Kit)

Fantom-XR: 1.03 / 2.02 (note: you can't install version 2.x over 1.x without a Sample Tools Expansion Kit)

Fantom-Xa: 1.05

Juno-G: 1.05

2.3 How do I perform an OS update?

IMPORTANT: before performing an OS update, make sure to back up your "ROLAND" folder from USER memory to your computer. Use the USB storage mode for this. After the update, copy this folder back the same way.

Updating via USB

  • Connect the synth to your computer with a USB cable
  • Press [MENU], scroll to System, press [ENTER].
  • Fantom-S/X: press [System Info] on F keys, then go to the Version Info screen. Fantom-Xa: press [Information] on F keys, then [Version] on F keys. Fantom-XR: scroll to [Version Info], press [ENTER].
  • Fantom-S/X: press and hold [SHIFT], then press F7, F8, F7, F8. Fantom-Xa: press and hold [SHIFT], then press the cursor up, down, up, down. Fantom-XR: press and hold [SHIFT], then press [INC], [DEC[, [INC], [DEC].
  • The display will read "Program Version". To enter the USB update mode: Fantom-S/X/Xa
  • press [UPD USB] on F keys, Fantom-XR - press [FX] and cursor right two times.
  • A new removable drive will appear on your computer's desktop.
  • Open the removable drive and copy the FANS.BIN (or FANX.BIN) file from the update.
  • Eject the removable drive from the computer.
  • The display will read: "+Please, Disconnect From PC Side, And Then Push [Exit].+". Disconnect the USB cable and press [EXIT].
  • The update program will start. WARNING: do not perform any operations or switch the power off.
  • The update will complete and the display will read: "+Completed. Please, Power Off.+". Turn the synth off and then back on. Check if the OS version is correct.

Updating via a storage card

  • Connect the synth to your computer in a USB storage mode, choose the CARD area
  • Copy the "ROLAND" folder from the update onto the synth's CARD memory
  • Exit the USB storage mode
  • Press [MENU], scroll to System, press [ENTER].
  • Fantom-S/X: press [System Info] on F keys, then go to the Version Info screen. Fantom-Xa: press [Information] on F keys, then [Version] on F keys. Fantom-XR: scroll to [Version Info], press [ENTER].
  • Fantom-S/X: press and hold [SHIFT], then press F7, F8, F7, F8. Fantom-Xa: press and hold [SHIFT], then press the cursor up, down, up, down. Fantom-XR: press and hold [SHIFT], then press [INC], [DEC[, [INC], [DEC].
  • The display will read "Program Version". To enter the USB update mode: Fantom-S/X/Xa
  • press [UPD CRD] on F keys, Fantom-XR - press [ARP] and cursor right two times.
  • The update program will start. WARNING: do not perform any operations or switch the power off.
  • The update will complete and the display will read: "+Completed. Please, Power Off.+". Turn the synth off and then back on. Check if the OS version is correct.

2.4 Where do I find older OS versions?

You can browse the Roland Japan FTP site: ftp://ftp.roland.co.jp/pub/japan. Enter "winxp" or "macos" folders to find the previous OS update versions for your system.

Patches, performances
3.1 How do I make a patch in a performance sound the same as when I play it in patch mode?

When you assign a patch to a performance part, it's effects settings are not loaded by default - instead, performance's effects settings are used. To make the performance load the effects settings from that patch:

  • See which part number you assigned this patch to
  • Press [EFFECTS]
  • Press F1 [Routing]
  • Route this patch to an MFX unit not occupied by other parts
  • Set the MFX SRC parameter for the corresponding MFX unit to the part number of this patch

For example, if you have a patch on part 3 and you routed it to MFX 2, you need to set MFX 2 SRC to part 3. To load chorus and/or reverb settings as well, use the CHO SRC and REV SRC parameters in the same way.

3.2 When I switch from patch to performance mode or vice versa the song's tempo changes!

Go to MENUSystemSync/Tempo and set Tempo Override to "OFF". This won't let switching performances and modes override sequencer tempo with their values, and it will remain constant.

3.3 How can I change the default drum kit that is loaded in PAD part?

Everytime you switch your Fantom on, it loads the rhythm group USER 01 (arp/rhythm) and loads the drum kit that this rhythm group is associated with. So you just have to:

  • Go to arp/rhythm [SELECT/EDIT].
  • Hit F1 [Rhythm group].
  • Select the group "USER 01".
  • Press [EDIT] on Fantom-S or F [Edit] on Fantom-X.
  • Adjust the "Recommended Rhythm" to the kit you want to be the default one and then WRITE this rhythm group.

3.4 When I switch to another patch, controller changes remain the same and affect the next patch. How do I fix this?

There is a system parameter called Patch Remain which causes all controller values remain unchanged when you switch to another patch. It also makes the sound to sustain as you switch sounds. If you want to switch this feature off, simply go to MENUSystemSound and set Patch Remain to OFF. This will reset all controller values with each patch switch.

3.5 What are System Exclusive messages?

Each parameter in a synth has it's own address. You can write a message to this system address and this way set a certain parameter to a desired value. These types of messages are called System Exclusive, or simply SysEx messages.

They find use when you need to control a parameter which is not accessible via Matrix Control, e.g. when you cannot bind a MIDI controller to a certain parameter. With SysEx you have total control over your board - each and every change of a parameter on the screen can be recorded into the sequencer and then played back. This is possible if you set Tx Edit Data to ON in MENU → System → MIDI.

3.6 The changes I make with the knobs are reset after saving the patch!

If you make changes to a patch with the knobs when they are realtime control mode (mode LED is set to FILTER/ENV), they will not be saved with the patch (this mode is simply not meant for editing).

You need to press EDIT (Fantom-S) or PATCH EDIT (Fantom-X) and this will lead you to the patch editor. Make your changes here ("Wave" tab is the waveform generator, "TVF" tab is the filter, "TVA" is the amplifier, etc.) and then WRITE your patch to retain the edits.

3.7 Fantom-S and Fantom-X compatibility

Fantom-S series and Fantom-Xa include one wave ROM bank, it's bank A. Fantom-X series include an additional bank B, so it has two banks. So this means:

  • Patches made on Fantom-S/Xa will sound exactly the same on Fantom-X
  • Patches made on Fantom-X using bank A waveforms will sound exactly the same on Fantom-S/Xa
  • Patches made on Fantom-X using bank B waveforms will not work on Fantom-S/Xa

3.8 Juno-G and Fantom-S/X compatibility

Juno-G has the same engine as in the Fantom-S/X synths and includes all waveforms of the bank A. However, it also includes about 40 new vintage synth waveforms, and the whole waveform bank A is rearranged. This means none of the patches made with Fantom-S/X synths will sound correctly. However, an online converter will be available soon, please watch this FAQ entry.

Sequencing
4.1 I'm trying to record different sounds on different tracks, but I end up with the same patch (last selected) playing all parts.

Reason 1. You are in patch mode. Patch mode is where only one sound is available at a time for keys and one for pads. You have to switch to "Performance" mode (with "MIXER" or "LAYER/SPLIT" buttons) where you have 16 independent parts, each of which can have it's own patch. After switching to performance mode, hit F2 [Part View] and use up/down cursor buttons to switch between parts.

Reason 2. You are not switching performance parts. Make sure that after recording a part, you go to performance mixer or layer/split screen, hit F2 [Part View] and use up/down cursor buttons to switch to another part.

4.2 How can I record a drum loop on different tracks, like kick on track 1, snare on 2, etc.?

Once again, you should know that performance parts are not the same thing as sequencer tracks.

There are 16 parts and each has a patch assigned to it. There are 16 tracks in the sequencer and any of them can contain performance data from any of the 16 parts or even all 16 in one track.

Other thing to know is that if you record a drum part on different tracks, you can't change the level of the tracks independently - you still have one part in performance that plays these tracks. In order to change levels (and other parameters like fx sends) for each drum sound, you need to hits EDIT and work with the drum kit editor.

So, if you want to record your drums on different tracks using a single drum kit - for example that one on pads, part 10 default - you have to do the following:

  • Go to MIXER and choose part 10
  • Hit [record], select track 1 (instead of "AUTO (TRK 10)").
  • Hit [play] and record a kick drum part
  • Press stop, then record, select track 2
  • Record a snare drum
  • Repeat steps 2-3, selecting different tracks and recording drum sounds
  • Press [EDIT] to go to drum kit editor and adjust proper parameters to polish your drum part

4.3 How do I change the volume of one drum sound without affecting the others?

  • Go to part 10 of performance (or where you have your drum kit assigned)
  • Hit [EDIT] or [PATCH EDIT]
  • Hit the key or pad whose level you want to adjust
  • Go to "TVA" screen and adjust "Tone Level"
  • Adjust levels for all other sounds (kick, snare, hi-hat etc.) - every time you press a key or pad while in "TVA" screen, you will be able to set the "Tone Level" for the key/pad last pressed

4.4 How do I split a track/pattern into other tracks/patterns by different parts (MIDI channels) it contains?

In "Track Edit" menu, use the "Extract" function. It will let you extract MIDI parts from a certain track/pattern and copy them to another track/pattern

If you want to split a track/pattern into parts, here's what you should do:

  • In sequencer mode, hit F8 [Track Edit]
  • Choose "Extract"
  • Set "Track" to the track/pattern you want to extract from
  • Set "Dst. Track" to track/pattern where you want to copy the part
  • Set "MIDI Channel" to the part number you want to extract
  • Hit F8 [Exec], confirm the operation with F8 [Ok]
  • Repeat to extract all parts you want to different tracks/patterns

If you want a track/pattern to be automatically divided into parts (channels), e.g. part 1 → track 1, part 2 → track 2, ... , part 16 → track 16, the procedure is as follows:

  • In sequencer mode, hit F8 [Track Edit]
  • Choose "Extract"
  • Set "Track" to the track/pattern you want to extract from
  • Set "Dst. Track" to "ALL"
  • Set "MIDI Channel" to "ALL"
  • Hit F8 [Exec], confirm the operation with F8 [Ok]
  • Repeat to extract all parts you want to different tracks/patterns

4.5 How can I change the tempo in the middle of the song?

  • Hit [SEQUENCER], then enter the microscope edit mode with pressing [EDIT] or F? Micro Edit.
  • Press F? [Track List] and choose the TEMPO track.
  • Using the forward/rewind sequencer control buttons then walk to the bar (measure) you want to change your tempo at.
  • Hit F1 [Create] and put the tempo change event, then use the right cursor key to walk to the tempo value and change it to whatever tempo you need.

4.6 How can I set the time signature of my song/pattern to other than 4/4?

Each pattern in the sequencer can have it's own time signature, and song can change it's time signature at any time. This is done by going to the BEAT track of a pattern/song and changing the value there (with a song, you can add/remove beat change events just like tempo change events). So, in order to change the time signature of a song/pattern, you should:

  • Go to [SEQUENCER] and select the song/pattern you want to edit.
  • Press [EDIT] or F? Micro Edit to enter the microscope edit mode
  • Hit F? [Trk/Ch Select] and select the BEAT track
  • Using the cursor keys, go to the current beat value ("Beat change" message) and set it to whatever time signature you want

4.7 Is there a way I can set the loop lengths of my tracks individually?

You can copy your parts/tracks into separate patterns, so that each pattern has it's own length. Then use RPS to assign these patterns to keys/pads, set playback mode to loop, and then each phrase/pattern will have it's own loop length since the different lengths of the patterns.

4.8 What are "parts", "channels" and "tracks"?

Performance part

One of the 16 "slots" in a performance as seen in the MIXER. Each part can have a patch or a rhythm kit assigned to it.

MIDI channel

In the context of a workstation as a whole, MIDI channels are used for communication between the sequencer and performance parts. Each performance part can be assigned to any MIDI channel 1..16. By default, each part has the same MIDI channels as it's number, e.g. part 1 on channel 1, part 2 on channel 2, etc.

Sequencer track

Holds note/controller data that you record into it. Each track can hold any of the 16 MIDI channels. By default, the parts are recorded to the tracks with the same numbers, e.g. part 1 on track 1, part 2 on track 2, etc.

4.9 How do I separate different drum sounds from one track to several tracks?

You need to use the "Extract" function in the sequencer Track Edit menu.

Set the "Source" track to the track which contains your drum part, "Dest" to the track which you want to extract to, "Status" to "note" and set min and max "Range" to the key/pad you want to extract. Repeat these steps for each drum sound you want to have on a separate channel.

4.10 How can I copy a track/pattern from one song to another?

  • First load the song you want to copy the track(s) to.
  • Go to SEQUENCER main screen, press Song List, choose the song you want to copy the track/patterns from.
  • Press "Load Track", specify which track/pattern to load and in which track/pattern of the current song it will be placed, then execute the operation.
  • Repeat these steps for other tracks/patterns if needed.

4.11 How can I create a Chain Play list?

It is not possible to make a custom Chain Play list, it just plays the songs in alphabetic order. The only workaround, except for manual switching, is using your computer to rename all songs to have a number in the name, and Chain Play with sort them. E.g. you have songs APPLE.SVQ, ORANGE.SVQ and PLUM.SVQ, name them 2APPLE.SVQ, 3ORANGE.SVQ and 1PLUM.SVQ and they will be played as 1PLUM.SVQ → 2APPLE.SVQ → 3ORANGE.SVQ.

4.12 I recorded some audio tracks, but I cannot hear them after my Fantom is powered off and then on.

When you record an audio track, what the Fantom does it create samples out of your audio performance and then put these samples into audio tracks. When you power on, Fantom needs to load these samples. But it may be that in system settings you have sample on-startup loading set to off - so either [1] press MENU, select System, go to Startup and set "User sample load" to ON, or [2] press SAVE/LOAD and do "Load all samples" manually.

4.13 How can I mute/un-mute drum kit sounds with pads or keyboard?

This is possible with System Exclusive messages. You can record these messages into patterns, and then assign them to the pads or the keyboard via RPS.

In this case, you need to create a mute pattern and an un-mute pattern. So, make sure the Transmit Edit Data is ON in the MIDI section of your system settings, and then create the mute/un-mute patterns the following way (say for the kick drum):

  • Go to sequencer, select pattern mode, choose pattern 1 (or whatever pattern is empty).
  • Select the drum kit part, press [PATCH EDIT], hit the kick key.
  • Go to the TVA tab, set level to 1.
  • Start recording, and press the [DEC] key at the very beginning of the pattern. This will record the volume change to 0 as a SysEx message. You may want to go to Micro Edit to make sure the SysEx message got placed at the first beat.
  • Now exit PATCH EDIT and select pattern 2.
  • Back to PATCH EDIT, TVA tab.
  • Set level to 126 (or, if it wasn't 127 at the start, set t current value minus one).
  • Start recording, and press the [INC] key at the very beginning of the pattern. This will record the volume change to 127 (or whatever) as a SysEx message. You may want to go to Micro Edit to make sure the SysEx message got placed at the first beat.
  • Now you may assign these two patterns to pads or keyboard via RPS. First one will mute the kick, second one will un-mute it.

Repeat these for patterns 3-4 for snare, 5-6 for hats and so on. You can also record mute/un-mute SysEx messages for a set of sounds into a single pattern, like kick+snare, open+closed hat, etc.

4.14 How can I repeat a certain recording several times?

The "Copy" function of the Track Edit menu allows you to repeat a certain portion of one or all tracks as many times as needed. The parameters for this function are:

  • Src Trk: which track to operate on
  • Src Meas: start measure of the recording to repeat
  • For: how many measures from the start measure to copy
  • Dst Trk: which track to copy to
  • Dst Meas: from what measure the copies will start to be placed
  • Status: what data type to copy (it can be all, or only notes, only controller data, etc.)

For instance, say you have a 4-bar loop on track 10 which starts on measure 9 and you want to repeat it 5 times. Here's how you can do it:

  • Src Trk: 10
  • Src Meas: 9
  • For: 4
  • Dst Trk: 10
  • Dst Meas: 13
  • Status: all

Arpeggiator, rhythm generator, chord memory
5.1 How can I make arpeggiator and rhythm generator start in sync?

It's only possible to sync the arpeggiator with rhythm generator when the sequencer is running. Go to MENU → System → Sync/Tempo and set "Arp/Rhythm Sync Switch" to "ON".

5.2 How can I record more than one different arpeggiated part into the sequencer?

By default, apreggiator plays part 1. However, you can set the arpeggiator part to any other part in the performance - this is possible by setting "Arpeggio part" in the main arpeggiator setup screen, or by turning the "ARP" switch on under the part number in MIXER.

So, if you want to record multiple arpeggiated parts:

  • Select a part
  • Select the patch you want to arpeggiate
  • Set arpeggio part to this part number
  • Select the desired arpeggio pattern
  • Record into the sequencer
  • Repeat all steps above for other parts and arpeggio patterns

Data management and exchange
6.1 How can I put my Fantom into USB storage mode to exchange data with a computer?

When connected to a computer in USB storage mode, your Fantom can "pretend" a removable USB disk, which lets to load/save data such as SVD sound banks, SVQ and SMF songs, WAVE/AIFF samples etc. from/to computer.

Preliminary check for Fantom-X series:

  • Press [MENU], scroll to System, press [ENTER].
  • Scroll to USB screen, and make sure the USB Mode parameter is set to USB Storage. If you usually need USB MIDI functionality, set USB Mode back to USB MIDI after exiting USB Storage mode.

Connecting to the computer

  • Connect your Fantom to the computer with a USB cable.
  • Press MENU, scroll to USB Storage (or USB), press [ENTER].
  • Select [USER] or [CARD] area to use internal flash memory or storage card as
  • On your computer's desktop or system storage device list, you should see a new removable drive named "Roland Fantom-S", "Removable disk" etc.
  • Open the Fantom's USB drive with a file manager.
  • Perform the needed operation on the files.
  • If this is needed by your operating system, unmount/eject the Fantom's drive: +[Linux]+ Right click the device icon, select "Unmount" +[Mac]+ Drag the drive icon into Trash +[Windows]+ Select "eject" or "remove" from the drive icon in system tray
  • On your Fantom, press F [Exit] to exit USB storage mode.

6.2 Can you explain the user/card area directory/file structure?

There are basically two directories in the user/card area:

+ROLAND+

  • +PNL+: contains LCD background images converted to Fantom's internal format.
  • +SEQ+: contains the +SNG+ folder that includes your song files (SVQ, SMF).
  • +SMPL+: holds your sample data. Samples are named as +SMPLxxxx.WAV+ or +SMPLxxxx.AIFF+ (depending on the default sample format set in System), where "xxxx" is the number under which the sample appears in Sample List.
  • +SND+: holds the +FANS.SVD+ or +FANX.SVD+ file which contains your system setup and all user data: patches, rhythm kits, performances, multi-samples, arpeggiator patterns, rhythm generator patterns and groups, chord forms.

+TMP+

  • +AUDIO_IMPORT+: the folder which shows up by default when you choose to import audio samples.
  • +BMP+: the folder which is used to import LCD background images.

6.3 How can I delete a song from card/user area?

  • Go to MENUFile Utility. Select F1 [User] or F2 [Card]. Browse to the +/ROLAND/SEQ/SNG+ directory (*).
  • There you will see the list of .SVQ files. Use "Mark Set" to mark the songs you want to delete, then press F7 [Delete] and F8 [Exec] to confirm the operation.

* Note: up/down cursor arrows move up/down in the file/folder list; right cursor button enters the highlighted folder, left cursor button goes back to the upper-level folder.

6.4 How can I copy/move data from card to user area or vice versa?

  • Go to MENUFile Utility.
  • Select F1 [User] or F2 [Card].
  • Enter the directory you want to copy/move files from.
  • Use "Mark Set" to mark the files you want to copy/move.
  • Press F5 [Copy] or F6 [Move], and then press F1 [User] or F2 [Card] and use the cursor to go to destination directory, and then press F8 [Exec].

6.5 How can I convert a Fantom-S librarian file to Fantom-X librarian format (or vice versa)?

The only difference between the Fantom-S and Fantom-X librarian files is in file extension (+FSL+ versus +FXL+) and in that the former has a +FantomSLibrarianFile+ string at the beginning of the file, and the latter has +FantomXLibrarianFile+. So you just need to open the librarian file in a binary-safe text editor, substitute this string accordingly and then save with proper extension. E.g., open the SoundBank.FSL, change +FantomSLibrarianFile+ to +FantomXLibrarianFile+, then save this file as SoundBank.FXL.

In a UNIX terminal (on Linux or Mac OS X), you can do it very easily simply by issuing the following command line - to convert a Fantom-S librarian to Fantom-X:

cat SoundBank.FSL | sed -e "s/FantomS/FantomX/" > SoundBank.FXL

...or to convert a Fantom-X librarian file to Fantom-S:

cat SoundBank.FXL | sed -e "s/FantomX/FantomS/" > SoundBank.FSL

Effects
7.1 How can I route my whole patch (rhythm set) to MFX?

At the top left corner of the "Routing" screen (EFFECTS → F1 [Routing]) there is a small box indicating the KBD part (if in patch mode) or performance part. Under this box, there is an output assignment parameter. Set it to MFX, and select the MFX unit number (if in performance mode).

7.2 How can I route certain individual tones (keys) of my patch (rhythm set) to MFX?

Following the steps in the previous answer, set the output assignment parameter to PAT (if in performance mode) or TONE (if in patch mode). Then hit EDIT and go to the "Output" tab. Select a tone 1-4 (for a patch) or hit a key (for a rhythm set) and then adjust the "Tone Out Assign" parameter to choose whether to send the tone to MFX or not (output "A"). You can also adjust reverb and chorus sends here too - note that there are separate send groups for sounds sent to "MFX" and out "A".

7.3 How can set all three MFX in series?

You can do this only in performance mode. Go to EFFECTS, F2 [MFX Struct] and select structure TYPE11 - this will make an effects chain of MFX 1 → MFX 2 → MFX 3. Note that you still have separate chorus and reverb sends out of each MFX box.

7.4 I set the reverb/chorus send levels to the max, but still have none of these effects applied. What to do?

Each patch has a reverb/chorus send setting that determines the send levels of each tone. The send levels hierarchy is as follows: tone sends determine the send levels of each tone and then the part send adjusts the send level of the patch, the four tones, as a whole. Think of these as four levels of the tones inside the patch and a global part level in performance.

To adjust the tone sends, go to EDIT for the patch (part) you want, get to the "Output" tab and there you will see chorus and reverb send levels for MFX and non-MFX sends. If your patch is sent to MFX, adjust the MFX group and adjust the non-MFX send group if it's sent to output A or B.

7.5 How can I make my drums more tight and punchy?

There are two most popular solutions for making dense and tight drums - compression and limiting. Send your drum patch or rhythm set to MFX, then choose the "Compressor" or "Limiter" algorithm.

Here are some example settings for compressor and limiter effects on drums (they are good to start from, adjust all parameters to your taste and needs).

  • Compressor (soft): Attack: 5-10, Threshold: 10-20, Post Gain: +3, Low Gain: +3, High Gain: +1
  • Compressor (hard): Attack: 25-50, Threshold: 50, Post Gain: +6, Low Gain: +4, High Gain: +2
  • Limiter (soft): Release: 30, Threshold: 10-20, Ratio: 4:1, Post Gain: +6, Low Gain: +4, High Gain: +1
  • Limiter (hard): Release: 60, Threshold: 60-80, Ratio: 1.5:1, Post Gain: +11, Low Gain: +4, High Gain: +1

7.6 How can I make the drums sound vintage, like in 1960s?

You can use the "Speaker Simulator" MFX algorithm to make it sound really vintage. Choose between the speaker models to get the sound you need. The most low-sounding one is "BUILT-IN 5" and the most tiny are "SMALL 1" and "SMALL 2".

Use "Guitar Amp Simulator" if you want even more. Here you have a guitar amp model and a speaker model to tweak. To add just a little bit of overdrive to the sound, choose the "JC-120" amp model and reduce the "Pre Amp Volume" to get less distortion. Adjust the "Low", "Middle" and "Treble" to shape the sound and then select a speaker model to your taste.

7.7 How can I create those gritty/bit-reduced/lo-fi beats?

Use the "LoFi" family of MFX - "LoFi Noise", "LoFi Radio" and "LoFi Compression". There are real lots of parameters to tweak, but the most important are "LoFi Type" and "Filter Type" that drastically change the effected sound.

7.8 How do I assign a controller to adjust an MFX parameter?

  • Press and hold [SHIFT], then press [ASSIGNABLE] under the D-beam (if you want to use the D-beam) or turn one of the control knobs.
  • See which controller the D-beam or knob is set to. It can be 01: MODULATION, or 02: BREATH, etc.
  • Go to [EFFECTS], F [MFX CTRL]. Set Source to this controller, Destination to desired MFX parameter and Depth to a value that makes needed changes.

Sampling
8.1 How do I import WAV/AIFF samples from my computer?

Before performing the operations listed below, make sure that: you have enough space in internal Flash RAM or storage card to place the samples you want to import.

  • Put your Fantom into USB storage mode.
  • Browse to the +/TMP/AUDIO_IMPORT+ directory.
  • Copy the WAVE/AIFF files that you want to import from your hard drive to this directory.
  • On the Fantom, go to sample list or sample edit screen, hit [MENU], choose "Import Audio" and press [ENTER]. On keyboard models, you can also hit [SAVE/LOAD] and then choose F [Import Audio].
  • Select [User] or [Card] area depending on where you have put your samples to.
  • For keyboard models: mark samples that you want to import with F [Mark Set], or use [SHIFT] + F [Mark Set] to select all samples. Press F [Import] and then F [Exec] to import the selected samples.
  • For Fantom-XR: mark samples that you want to import with [INC] button. Press [ENTER] and then [ENTER] again to import the selected samples.

Please note that the samples will be only loaded into RAM, but will be lost after powering off. You need to save them to user or card memory:

  • Keyboard Fantoms: press [SAVE/LOAD], select Save All Samples, F [Exec].
  • Fantom-XR: in sample list, mark

Also, note that after saving the imported samples, the original files will still be there in +/TMP/AUDIOIMPORT+. You need to use the File Utility to delete these files, and you will also need to perform this before_ wriring to user/card memory if the total size of the imported data is more than half of the user/card memory.

  • [MENU] → File Utility → select [User] or [Card] (where you imported from).
  • Browse to +/TMP/AUDIO_IMPORT+, press SHIFT + [Mark Set All], then F [Delete], F [Exec].

Important notes:

  • If there is no storage card inserted, then samples transferred into user memory will be imported into user memory locations.
  • If there is an storage card in the drive, samples transferred into flash RAM will be imported into the storage card locations.
  • Samples transferred into the storage card will be imported into the storage card.

8.2 How do I resample my song and transfer it to computer for editing/CD burning/MP3 creation?

Before performing the operations listed below, make sure that you have enough space in Flash RAM or storage card to place the sample of your song. Remember that 1 minute of stereo sound at 16 bits/44.1 KHz takes around 10 MB of memory.

Record the sound:

  • Press [SAMPLING], choose [Re-Sample].
  • Make sure Stereo switch is set to Stereo, then press F [Start] to start sampling.
  • Press [PLAY] on sequencer tray to start your song.
  • When the playback ends, hit [STOP] on sequencer tray and F [Stop] to stop the sampling.
  • Sample Edit screen will appear showing your newly-recorded sample.

Save your sample to flash RAM or storage card:

  • For keyboard Fantoms: press [WRITE], select Sample, Assign a name to your sample, then select [Write] and choose write destination (User/Card), choose sample location (number) and save the sample with [Write]. Also, remember the number that you saved this sample with - we'll assume it is +0046+.
  • For Fantom-XR: go to sample list, and use [INC] button to mark samples to save. Then, press [SHIFT], press cursor ">", press [ENTER] and [ENTER] again to save the samples.

Export the sample to computer:

  • Put your Fantom into USB storage mode.
  • Open the +/ROLAND/SMPL+ directory.
  • Find a file named +smpl0046.wav+ - where +0046+ is example number that you saved the sample with.
  • Copy or move this sample to your computer's hard drive.

8.3 How do I sample my 2-bar loop from the sequencer and make a looped sample out of it?

Record the sound:

  • Hit [SAMPLING], choose [Re-Sample].
  • Check the [AutoTrig] option, then make sure "stereo switch" is set to "stereo".
  • Press F [Start] to start sampling, then press [PLAY] on sequencer tray.
  • When your sequence ends, hit [STOP] onm the sequencer tray and F [Stop] to stop the sampling.

Now you have your sample in the sample edit screen - you need to trim it down to 2 measures. Since you used "Auto-Trig", you should have your sequence starting right at the beginning of the sample. Go to "End point" and find the end of the sample. This is very easy, as you have a beat lines and you just need to go to first unwanted beat (1st beat of 3rd measure). Preview the sample with F8 and make sure you have exactly 2 bars (or 8 beats). Now truncate the sample by start/end points:

  • Hit F [Sample Modify], Choose F [Truncate]
  • Check F [OverWrite] then hit F [Exec] and F [Ok]

Normalise the sample:

  • Go to F [Sample Modify], choose F [Normalize]
  • Check F [OverWrite], then hit F [Exec] and F [Ok]

Loop the sample:

  • Go to [MENU] → [Sample Parameter] and set Loop Mode to "FWD"

Now you have your sample ready. Save it to user flash RAM or storage card:

  • Hit [WRITE], choose Sample
  • Assign a name to your sample
  • Press F [Write], choose write destination (User/Card), then press F [Write] and F [Ok]

8.4 How can I make a sample that I assigned to a key/pad sound wholly without having to hold that key/pad?

For patches (when "assign to keys" was used): select the pad part, then hit [EDIT] or [PATCH EDIT] to enter the patch editor editor and then:

  • Scroll to the "Misc" tab, and set Sustain to "NO-SUS".
  • Scroll to the "TVA" tab and adjust the "Decay" parameter so that the sample is played wholly.

For rhythm kits (when "assign to pad" or "create rhythm" was used): select the patch part, then press [EDIT] ([PATCH EDIT] on Fantom-X series) to enter the rhythm set editor, and then:

  • Press the key/pad the sample is assigned to.
  • Scroll to the "General" tab and set Tone Sustain Mode to No-Sustain.
  • Scroll to the "TVA" tab and adjust the Decay parameter so that the sample plays to the end.

Note that you have to perform this for each of the key in the rhythm set.

8.5 How do I set the default sample format (AIFF or WAVE)?

Press [MENU], enter System, then go to Sampling and set the Default Format accordingly.

8.6 How can I calculate and set the BPM of a loop precisesly?

We assume you have a loop with "N" bars, and it's time signature is 4/4.

If you know it's length "S" in samples (it is shown in Sample Edit screen as the "Sample End" parameter, if Sample Start is set to "000000"), the BPM can be calculated as:

BPM = 240/((S/N)/44100)

S divided by N is the length (in samples) of one bar. S/N divided by 44100 samples per second gives the precise value of sample length (L) in seconds, e.g.:

N=2 S=158760

BPM = 240/((158760/2)/44100) = 133.33

(the length of one bar L = (S/N)/44100 = 1.8 seconds)

If you know sample's length (L) is seconds, the BPM can be calculated as:

BPM = 240/(L/N)

L divided by N is simply the length of one bar. So, if you have 4 measures (bars) lasting for 7.4 seconds, e.g.:

BPM = 240/(7.4/4) = 129.73

8.7 How can I make a sample fade in (out) in Sample Edit?

Yes, the "Amp" edit function not only lets you boost/reduce the volume of entire sample, but you can also draw a 4-point envelope to make your sample fade in, out, in and out and so on. All you have to do is adjust the time position and level of each point of the envelope, just like you would do for TVA/TVF/Pitch envelopes in patch editor.

In order to fade a sample out:

  • Press "Sample List", choose a desired sample and hit "Sample Edit"
  • Go to [Sample Modify] and select [Amp], then switch to [Point] mode
  • Select Point 1 and set it's rate to 100%
  • Select Point 2, set it's time to the very end of the sample - Shift+Value dial lets you do it fastly
  • Set Point 2 rate to 0%
  • Check [Over Write] if you do not want to create a new sample and operate on the current one
  • Press [Exec] twice to execute the Amp operation

In order to fade a sample in, use the same procedure as above, specifying rate of 0% for Point 1 and 100% for Point 2. To make a sound fade in and then out, move Point 2 to the middle of the sample, then move Point 3 to the end. Set the rates to 0%, 100%, 0% for Points 1, 2, 3, respectively.

8.8 I adjusted the start/end points to zero level, but clicks are heard as it loops anyway.

The default Sample Edit screen doesn't show the true zero level. This is becase the default horizontal and vertical zoom scales are set to values which in most cases don't let see the true zero level (1:128 and 1:1, respectively). Zoom the sample in vertically (Shift + cursor "up") and horizontally (cursor "right") to the max, and you will see that you are not at the zero level exactly.

When making precise loops (for sounds such as synth waves and similar), always zoom in vertically and horizontally to find the zero-level points for sample/loop start and sample end.

8.9 I found a seamless loop but after truncating the sample looping clicks appear.

Rarely, after truncating a sample, the clicks may appear in a previously-perfect loop. The workaround for this is very easy:

  • Find the perfect (seamless) loop
  • Decrease the Loop Start by one single sample, increase the Loop End by one single sample
  • Truncate the sample
  • Now increase the Loop Start by one single sample and decrease the Loop End by one single sample

8.10 How can I set the BPM of a sample precisely?

In Sample Parameter screen, hold down "Shift" and use INC/DEC buttons to adjust the setting - it will change in order of 0.01.

8.11 Is there an UNDO/REDO function for Sample Modify?

UNDO/REDO functions don't work for Sample Modify. However, there are two easy ways you can perform these operations yourself.

1. When you have a sample to edit, WRITE it to user memory or card first. Then apply any modifications (using Over Write mode). If you don't like the results, use "Load Util → Load" to reload the sample in the state it was saved.

2. Don't use "Over Write" to keep the oroginal sample in memory so that when you use Sample Modify edits are performed on copy, which you can unload ("Load Util → Unload") if you don't like the results.

8.12 How can I move the samples from CARD to USER memory?

  • Go to [MENU] → "File Utility"
  • Select CARD area, browse to the +/ROLAND/SMPL+ folder using the cursor keys
  • Mark the samples you want to move
  • Select "Move", select USER area, browse to the +/TMP/AUDIO_IMPORT+ folder and select "Exec"
  • Now go to Sample List, [MENU] → "Import Audio" and import the samples to RAM
  • Go to "File Utility" again and delete the source samples from +/TMP/AUDIO_IMPORT+
  • Now back to USER area Sample List, select all samples and [WRITE] them

8.13 How can I resample a part and insert it into my song to free up an MFX unit?

  • Mute all tracks of the sequencer and leave only those you want to resample
  • Press [SAMPLING]
  • Select "Mix"
  • Start the sampling
  • Start the sequencer
  • When the sequence you want to sample stops, stop the sampling
  • Now you need to trim the sample so it has no silence at the beginning: in [SAMPLE EDIT], set the Sample Start point to where the sound starts
  • [WRITE] the sample to USER or CARD memory
  • Now you need to assign this sample to either keyboard part or a pad: in [SAMPLE LIST], press "Load", choose "Assign to keys" or "Assign to pad", choose a part, and assign this sample to it
  • Finally, go to the sequencer, start the recording and play this sample into the sequencer to the end using either keys or pads