Roland VariOS Open System Module

Manufacturer's Description for 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.

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 multi-timbral 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

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. zZounds is an authorized dealer of Roland products.

Sound Samples

•   Jim's Ghetto Tech
•   R & B Demo