Roland/BOSS VF-1 Multiple Effects Processor


Roland/BOSS VF-1 Multiple Effects Processor
by Barry Keys
	Go To Music Biz Magazine Directory

With preamp/speaker cabinet simulators, distortion controls and a utility window with a chromatic tuner, I thought the VF-1 was just another guitar effect. My first impressions changed before I ever opened the manual since I easily navigated around the unit with only six buttons and the single, value/control knob. The VF-1 is a stereo, 24-bit (30-bit internal) multi-effects processor with 200 user and 200 tastefully programmed factory presets for keyboards, guitars, vocals or any other studio use. My experience with BOSS half-rack gear goes way back to a BOSS PRO CL-50 (compressor/limiter) that survives to this day working everyday in my studio after years on the road and several accidents.

Chains of series and parallel connected effects in the VF-1 are set up in 36 preset templates with the ability to modify and modulate each effect. Some presets use only a couple of effects chained together, like an equalizer followed by reverb while other sound treatments require longer chains. One more elaborate chain is Guitar Multi 2 with a compressor/limiter followed by SFX, then a preamp simulator, wah-wah, EQ, noise suppresser, delay, chorus then reverb. Whoa! By the way, SFX is a subset list of additional sound treatments like tremolo, feedback and pick-up simulators.

The two hundred user presets start out as duplicates of the factory settings for you to modify and store for your specific needs. I was impressed with the plate and room reverbs as well as the transparency of the limiter presets. There is also "key-sensitive harmonizing": an intelligent harmonizer that, after you tell it what key you are in, automatically adds harmony to the part you're playing. Other effects include chorusing, flanging, gated reverb, ring modulator, vocoder, mic simulator, vocal canceller and RSS or Roland Sound Space, a way to control three-dimensional sound placement and ambience.

I started out with a dry guitar sound from my sampler and using the VF-1 mono input. Since the unit is full stereo in and out, I was able to derive a new, fat "stereoized" guitar sound from the stereo outputs. Using just one synth setting, I was able to get a surprising number of really different and new sounds creating more musical possibilities for me. Even my favorite, real guitar-player was impressed with the VF-1's clear top end and spacious ambient sounds.

Always wishing I had a real Leslie® speaker and after spending hours with other rotary speaker effects, I've gotten really picky and the VF-1's overdrive section does a fine job of simulating by offering the right amount and quality of grit. I also liked the way you can control the ramp up and down speeds between the fast and slow rotor settings. This performance oriented effect also can be adjusted with an expression pedal or programmed via MIDI.

With switchable analog outputs of either -10dBv or +4dBm as well as a S/PDIF digital output, the VF-1 sells for $495 MSRP and I recommend it for guitar, bass, keyboard, vocals, drums or anytime you are looking for a high quality all-around effects processor. For much more about it, contact Roland/BOSS at: 323-890-3700 Web to: www.rolandus.com

Barry Keys is an L.A.-based composer who has been involved in record production, film score and studio design since 1975. His recent CD: B. Lawrence Keys "The Bottom Line" is available at amazon.com
Visit his Web site at: www.xenonrecords.com

Edited by: Barry Rudolph

Back To Home Page