Roland SPD-SX PRO Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Roland SPD-SX PRO is a flagship sampling pad designed for drummers and musicians, offering advanced features for live performance and studio work. It builds upon the legacy of its predecessors, the SPD-S and SPD-SX, incorporating extensive user feedback and road-tested enhancements. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your SPD-SX PRO.

What's in the Box

Upon unboxing your Roland SPD-SX PRO, please verify that all the following components are included:

• SPD-SX PRO Unit
• AC Adaptor
• USB Cables

Image: The SPD-SX PRO unit shown with its dimensions and a list of included components: SPD-SX PRO Unit, AC Adaptor, and USB Cables.

Key Features

The SPD-SX PRO is equipped with a range of powerful features designed to enhance your performance and workflow:

• Nine Playing Surfaces: Features Roland’s advanced trigger technology, including six large pads and three top-row shoulder pads for versatile performance.
• Customizable Pad LEDs: High-visibility, horizontal and vertical LEDs with multi-color customization allow for clear visual feedback on dark stages.
• Enhanced Sensitivity: Increased shoulder pad sensitivity and improved crosstalk performance ensure accurate and reliable triggering.
• Large Color Display: A 4.3-inch color display provides easy navigation and viewing of settings during performance.
• Multiple Audio Outputs: Includes a stereo main output and four direct mono outputs, all balanced for easy mixing on stage.
• Extensive Trigger Inputs: Connectivity for up to eight external individual triggers/pads (four stereo triggers or eight mono triggers with Y-cables) for expanded setups.
• Dedicated SPD-SX PRO App: A specialized application for Windows/Mac facilitates easy importing, sample management, and deep kit editing.
• Hi-Hat/Footswitch Control: Input for hi-hat or footswitch expression control adds dynamic performance possibilities.
• Massive Memory: Equipped with 32 GB of internal memory, supporting up to 44 hours of high-quality audio playback.
• Pre-loaded Sounds: Comes with over 1,500 pre-loaded sounds and 200 kits, allowing for seamless kit switching without sound cutoffs.

Image: Top-down view of the Roland SPD-SX PRO, highlighting its nine playing surfaces and the central color display.

Image: The SPD-SX PRO showcasing its customizable multi-color LED lights on the pads, indicating active zones.

Setup Guide

1. Power Connection

Connect the included AC adaptor to the DC IN jack on the rear panel of the SPD-SX PRO. Plug the other end of the adaptor into a standard AC outlet. Ensure the power switch is in the OFF position before connecting power.

2. Audio Connections

The SPD-SX PRO offers various audio output options:

• Main Output: Connect the L/MONO and R jacks to your mixer or amplifier for stereo output.
• Direct Outputs: Use the DIRECT OUT (BALANCED) 1-4 jacks for individual pad or sample routing to a mixer. These are balanced outputs for noise reduction over long cable runs.
• Headphones: Connect headphones to the PHONES jack for monitoring your sound.

For audio input, connect external audio devices to the AUDIO IN (L/MONO, R) jacks. Adjust the INPUT VOLUME knob to control the input level.

3. External Trigger/Pad Connections

Expand your setup by connecting external pads or triggers to the TRIGGER IN 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8 jacks. These inputs support both single-zone and dual-zone pads (using Y-cables for dual-zone). Refer to the detailed manual for specific wiring configurations for different pad types.

4. MIDI and USB Connections

The SPD-SX PRO supports MIDI and USB connectivity:

• MIDI IN/OUT: Connect to other MIDI devices for control or to be controlled.
• USB COMPUTER Port: Connect to your computer using a USB cable for data transfer, sample import, and use with the dedicated SPD-SX PRO App.
• USB MEMORY Port: Insert a USB flash drive to load samples or save your kit data.

Image: Rear panel of the SPD-SX PRO, illustrating all available connection ports including USB, MIDI, audio inputs/outputs, and trigger inputs.

Operating Instructions

1. Powering On/Off

To power on the unit, press the ON/OFF button located on the front panel. To power off, press and hold the ON/OFF button until the unit shuts down.

2. Navigating the Interface

The SPD-SX PRO features a 4.3-inch color display and various controls for navigation:

• VALUE Knob: Rotate to select items or adjust parameter values.
• CURSOR Buttons: Use the up/down/left/right buttons to move the cursor on the display.
• ENTER Button: Confirm selections or enter menus.
• EXIT Button: Go back to the previous screen or cancel an operation.
• MENU Button: Access the main menu for system settings, sample management, and more.

3. Playing Pads and Kits

The SPD-SX PRO comes with pre-loaded kits. To select a kit, use the KIT button and the VALUE knob. Once a kit is selected, strike the pads to trigger the assigned samples. The pad LEDs will illuminate to indicate active pads.

4. Importing and Managing Samples

Samples can be imported via USB flash drive or through the dedicated SPD-SX PRO App. The app provides a streamlined interface for organizing your samples, creating custom kits, and adjusting detailed parameters. The unit supports WAV, AIFF, and MP3 audio files.

5. Adjusting Effects

The SPD-SX PRO includes onboard effects. Use the MASTER EFFECT and PAD EFFECT controls to apply and adjust effects to your overall sound or individual pads. Consult the full user guide for a detailed list of effects and their parameters.

Image: Front view of the SPD-SX PRO, highlighting the control knobs, buttons, and the central display for operational adjustments.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your SPD-SX PRO:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the unit. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth with mild, non-abrasive cleaner can be used, followed by a dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
• Storage: Store the unit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity. If transporting, use a padded case to protect it from physical shock.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating. Do not block any ventilation openings.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Roland website for firmware updates. Keeping your unit's firmware up-to-date can improve performance and add new features.
• Pad Care: While the pads are durable, avoid excessive force or sharp objects that could damage the playing surfaces.

Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your SPD-SX PRO. For more complex problems, refer to the full user manual or contact Roland support.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Roland products are backed by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Roland website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Customer Support

If you require technical assistance, have questions about your product, or need to arrange for service, please contact Roland customer support through their official website or the contact information provided in your product documentation. Online resources, including FAQs and software downloads, are also available.

You can also find additional resources and support documents, such as the full User Guide and User Manual, on the product's Amazon page or the Roland support website.

• User Guide (PDF): Download User Guide
• User Manual (PDF): Download User Manual