Roland VariOS: Open System Module

VariOS is an open-ended hardware/software system that allows musicians to build audio-based tracks with the same flexibility as MIDI. All processing is handled by the VariOS module, which is controlled using bundled software. The first software bundle is V-Producer for VariOS. This software lets musicians manipulate a sample?s pitch, time and formant, add effects and even build complete arrangements while keeping the music flowing and without CPU drain. And since the VariOS module can be updated via PC cards, the system can take on entirely new functions in the future.

Features

• Open-ended realtime audio construction system consisting of VariOS module and new V-Producer for VariOS software
• Play back up to 14 phrases simultaneously with 6-part multitimbral operation
• Award-winning VariPhrase technology for intuitive realtime manipulation of pitch, time and formant?control audio phrases like MIDI!
• Batch load/auto-encode .WAV/AIFF audio files from computer via USB and browser
• Internal memory holds up to 300 seconds of mono samples (150 seconds in stereo)
• Easy drag-and-drop sample arrangement?build a complete song in minutes!
• PhraseScope window provides free-form editing of a phrase?s melody content
• GrooveScope window allows non-destructive reconstruction of rhythm loops
• Graphic editing of VariOS module?s 40 multi-effects, 8 chorus types and 9 reverbs
• V-Producer for VariOS supports MIDI clock/MTC sync and audio/SMF export
• Flash memory and PC Card sample storage for using VariOS module without computer
• Open-ended design allows for future software updates
  

Details

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.

PhraseScope: The Ultimate Vocal Tool
V-Producer?s PhraseScope window separates the melody from the rest of the phrase, allowing users to re-construct a new melody or add harmonies graphically, or by playing in notes from a MIDI keyboard. Using PhraseScope, you can take an existing vocal phrase or melodic instrument phrase and change the actual notes, phrasing and vocal gender without unwanted artifacts. Need some quick background vocals? Just play in the harmonies from a keyboard. You can even tweak pitch, time and formant from the VariOS module?s knobs. And like GrooveScope, all edits are done in real time and non-destructively.

Integrates with Your Favorite DAW
While VariOS gives you the power to create complete audio-based compositions without any additional hardware or software, it?s nice to know you?ve got options. That?s why V-Producer includes the ability to sync to MIDI clock and MTC, enabling it to run smoothly alongside other sequencing programs like Logic, Performer and Cubase. Arrangements can also be exported as Standard MIDI Files (Format 1), and encoded audio files?or an entire arrangement?can be saved as stereo .WAV/AIFF files for further manipulation in other DAW programs.

Convenient Stand-Alone Operation
Want to take your VariOS rig on the road? Simply load the samples to the VariOS module using USB, edit them with V-Producer and then save them to the onboard flash memory or PC card. Now you can take the VariOS module out on the road for use as a 6-part multitimbral sound module loaded with your VariPhrase-processed sounds, while still being able to freely manipulate pitch, time and formant using the knobs or MIDI commands.

An Open-Ended System
One of the best reasons to own VariOS is that its functionality is not limited to audio manipulation and construction. Since the module itself is simply a dedicated processor, VariOS can become an entirely new product just by updating the firmware. In the future, Roland will release PC card updates for the VariOS module and corresponding control software, enabling users to turn this system into an entirely new product. Another Roland first!

*All trademarks are property of their respective owners.