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In-depth Feature:
Roland XV-2020
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Conclusion
I gave the XV-2020 and the XV Editor software the acid test of using them right out of the box on a paying gig. The XV-2020 did not disappoint, and the software allowed for fast patch editing during rehearsals. The only difficulty I experienced was at the first rehearsal, when I didn't have my laptop with me. In that situation I was unable to make changes as they were requested by the conductor, due to the limited front panel editing capabilities of the XV-2020 and the fact that the 2020 does not display full patch names. However, with my laptop in hand at subsequent rehearsals I found editing via the software convenient, fast, and hassle free. If you have a laptop, this is definitely the way to go.
XV-2020 | Polyphony: 64 Multitimbral: 16 parts Sample Rom: 64 megs Expansion ports: SRX (2) MIDI: In/Out/Thru Audio Outputs: Stereo 1/4", Stereo RCA Digital I/O: USB (MIDI only, no audio) Power Supply: External wall wart Included Software: XV Editor & Librarian Supported OS: Windows XP/2000/Me/98, Mac 8.5 - 9.2 List Price: $695 |
If you already have an XV-5080/5050/88, the XV-2020 is an inexpensive way to add more polyphony or allow room for more SRX expansion boards. If you don't have an XV series synth yet, the XV-2020 allows you to get those sounds into your studio without breaking the bank. It works well as a desktop synth in a computer sequencing setup.
And now back to the gig: as I was packing up my gear at the end of the first rehearsal, I overheard the music director quietly speaking to the other keyboardist, suggesting he consider buying "what Alby's using", the XV-2020. Several members of the orchestra also approached me to express how much they liked the SRX-04 Symphonique String expansion sounds, a real compliment coming from acoustic players. I felt I successfully replaced my entire gig rack with this tiny 1/2 rack module. Packing up involved unplugging the 2020 and slipping it into my briefcase. I'm not going back to the old rack, and my (formerly) aching back, thanks to the XV-2020.
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