Roland VH-11 V-Hi-Hat Owner's Manual
Welcome to the owner's manual for the Roland VH-11 V-Hi-Hat. This guide provides essential information for setup, operation, and maintenance.
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Roland V-Hi-Hat VH-11. To ensure proper use and to make the most of its features, please read this manual thoroughly. You will need to make specific settings on your sound module when using the VH-11; refer to pages 6 or 8 for details.
Please note that a hi-hat stand is not included. For information on compatible stands, please refer to page 5.
Before using this unit, it is crucial to carefully read the sections titled "USING THE UNIT SAFELY" and "IMPORTANT NOTES" (pages 2 and 3). These sections contain vital information regarding the safe and proper operation of the unit. Reading the entire manual will help you understand all features and ensure you can use your new unit with confidence. Keep this manual handy for future reference.
Copyright © 2005 ROLAND CORPORATION. All rights reserved.
Using the Unit Safely
This section provides instructions for the prevention of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
WARNING and CAUTION Notices
- WARNING: Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of death or severe injury should the unit be used improperly.
- CAUTION: Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of injury or material damage should the unit be used improperly.
- Material damage refers to damage or other adverse effects caused with respect to the home and all its furnishings, as well as domestic animals or pets.
About the Symbols
- ⚠️: This symbol alerts the user to important instructions or warnings. The specific meaning is determined by the design within the triangle. It is used for general cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.
- ?: This symbol alerts the user to items that must never be carried out (are forbidden). The specific forbidden action is indicated by the design within the circle. For example, it means the unit must never be disassembled.
- ✔️: This symbol alerts the user to things that must be carried out. The specific action is indicated by the design within the circle. For example, it means the power-cord plug must be unplugged from the outlet.
ALWAYS OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING
- Before using this unit, make sure to read the instructions below and the Owner's Manual.
- Do not open or perform any internal modifications on the unit.
- Do not attempt to repair the unit or replace parts within it, unless this manual provides specific instructions. Refer all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor.
- Never use or store the unit in places that are:
- Subject to temperature extremes (e.g., direct sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating duct, on top of heat-generating equipment).
- Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors).
- Humid.
- Exposed to rain.
- Dusty.
- Subject to high levels of vibration.
- Make sure you always have the unit placed so it is level and stable. Never place it on stands that could wobble or on inclined surfaces.
- Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable material, coins, pins) or liquids of any kind (water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate the unit.
- In households with small children, an adult should provide supervision until the child is capable of following all rules essential for safe operation.
- Protect the unit from strong impact (Do not drop it!).
- Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entangled. Place all cords and cables out of the reach of children.
- Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on the unit.
- Install the unit only on a hi-hat stand that satisfies the specifications described on page 5.
- Should you remove bolts, keep them in a safe place out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing.
- Be careful not to allow your fingers or hands to be caught between the hi-hat and motion sensor unit.
Important Notes
In addition to the items listed under "USING THE UNIT SAFELY" on page 2, please read and observe the following:
Placement
- Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed vehicle, or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes. Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.
- When moving the unit between locations with significantly different temperatures and/or humidity, condensation may form inside. Attempting to use the unit in this condition can result in damage or malfunction. Allow the unit to stand for several hours until condensation has completely evaporated before use.
- Do not allow rubber, vinyl, or similar materials to remain on the unit for long periods, as they can discolor or otherwise harmfully affect the finish.
Maintenance
- For everyday cleaning, wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth or one slightly dampened with water. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth impregnated with a mild, non-abrasive detergent, then wipe thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.
- Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol, or solvents of any kind to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or deformation.
Additional Precautions
- Use care when operating the unit's buttons, sliders, controls, jacks, and connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.
- When connecting or disconnecting cables, grasp the connector itself, never pull on the cable. This prevents shorts or damage to the cable's internal elements.
- To avoid disturbing neighbors, keep the unit's volume at reasonable levels. Consider using headphones, especially late at night.
- This instrument is designed to minimize extraneous sounds. However, sound vibrations can transmit through floors and walls. Take care not to disturb neighbors, especially when performing at night or using headphones.
- When transporting the unit, use the original box and padding if possible, or equivalent packaging materials.
- The hi-hat stand is typically supported by a tripod. When installing the hi-hat, ensure the tripod legs are opened wide enough to keep the equipment stable and prevent it from falling over.
- The hi-hat's rubber surface may turn white over time; this has no effect on its function.
- Do not remove the special VH-11 clutch or disassemble it.
- When not using the hi-hat for extended periods, store it in the open position to prevent stress on the motion sensor unit.
- High-precision sensors are located in the motion sensor unit. [Diagram: Motion sensor unit with arrow pointing to sensors]. Take care not to subject this area to excessive shock or allow foreign objects to enter any gaps.
- Over time, the damper portion of the motion sensor unit that contacts the hi-hat may wear. This can prevent proper offset adjustment and cause unnatural motion. If this occurs, contact Roland Service for damper replacement.
- The rubber portion of the striking surface is treated with a preservative. Over time, this preservative may appear as a white stain or show marks from product testing. This does not affect performance or functionality.
Features
Similar Touch and Feel as an Acoustic Hi-Hat
The VH-11 features a single floating cymbal, making it compatible with commercially available hi-hat stands. It provides an authentic acoustic hi-hat feel, including stick rebound, cymbal looseness upon striking, and the vertical action when the pedal is pressed and released.
Smooth Transition Between Closed and Open Tones
As you strike the pad while gradually opening the pedal, the tone smoothly transitions from closed to open based on the pedal's position.
Allows Foot Splashes
You can achieve foot splash sounds by pressing the pedal down and then instantly releasing it.
Quick-Open Tone Changes
When connected to a fully compatible sound module, the VH-11 can realistically reproduce the tonal change that occurs when striking the hi-hat in the closed position and then instantly opening it.
Dual Trigger Capability
Sensors in both the top (bow) and edge portions allow for different sounds to be triggered by striking these areas (refer to page 9).
Natural-Feeling Action
Adjust the pedal pressure and hi-hat stand spring tension to achieve your preferred pedal feel.
Quiet Operation
Rubber is used on the striking surface for a damping effect, contributing to quieter performance.
Compatible with Commercially Available Hi-Hat Stands
Refer to page 5 for details on compatible stands.
Regarding the VH-11's Compatibility
| Compatibility | Sound Module |
|---|---|
| Completely Compatible | TD-30/20X/20/15/12/11/9 |
| Compatible | TD-10 + TDW-1, TD-8/6V/6 |
Completely Compatible: Tone changes more naturally from open to closed.
Compatible: Open/close control is possible, but expressive capabilities like half-open will not be the same as with a completely compatible sound module.
Package Contents
- Hi-Hat
- Motion Sensor Unit
- Insulating Plate
- Cable Tie
- Tuning Key
[Diagram: Package contents illustration showing the VH-11 hi-hat, motion sensor unit, insulating plate, cable tie, and tuning key.]
Mounting on the Hi-Hat Stand
Compatible Stands
The VH-11 can be mounted on a stand with the following dimensions:
[Diagram: Compatible stand dimensions showing a cymbal rod diameter of 6.0-7.0 mm (0.236"-0.276") and a maximum stand diameter of 11.7 mm (1/2").]
Mounting Procedure
- Remove the clutch included with the hi-hat stand from the cymbal rod. (Note: The stand's original clutch will not be used. The felt or rubber pad on the hi-hat stand for supporting the bottom cymbal does not need to be removed.)
- Confirm that the cymbal rod is firmly secured. Refer to your cymbal stand's owner's manual for tightening instructions.
Note: Looseness or play in the cymbal rod can make the top hi-hat unstable, causing it to shake or turn, and prevent proper functioning.
- Place the insulating plate on the hi-hat stand with the cymbal rod passing through its hole. Set the insulating plate with the sponge side facing up.
- Place the motion sensor unit on the insulating plate, ensuring the cymbal rod passes through its hole. Position the CONTROL OUT jack on the side farther from the player.
- Loosen the clutch screw and place the hi-hat onto the motion sensor unit, with the cymbal rod passing through the hi-hat's hole. Position the "Roland" logo on the side farther from the player.
[Diagram: Mounting procedure illustration showing the assembly of the hi-hat, motion sensor unit, and insulating plate onto the cymbal rod, with labels for Clutch Screw, Hi-Hat, Roland logo, Motion Sensor Unit, CONTROL OUT jack, Insulating Plate, and Cymbal Rod. It also includes a check for sufficient tightening of the cymbal rod.]
Connecting and Adjusting
Connecting to a Sound Module
Note: To prevent malfunction or damage, always turn down the volume and turn off the power on all connected devices before making connections.
- Connect the VH-11's TRIGGER OUT jack to the sound module's TRIGGER INPUT HI-HAT jack.
- Connect the VH-11's CONTROL OUT jack to the sound module's HH CTRL jack.
- Use stereo (TRS) cables for these connections. Monaural cables will not support edge shots.
- Secure the cables in place with the provided cable tie, leaving some slack.
[Diagram: Cable connections showing the VH-11's TRIGGER OUT and CONTROL OUT jacks connecting to the sound module's HI-HAT and HH CTRL jacks. Diagram also shows cable tie usage with instructions to leave slack and secure.]
Adjusting the VH-11's Offset for the TD-30 Sound Module
The VH-11's offset must be adjusted for correct detection of open/close and pedal movements. This setting is specific to the sound module used.
For TD-30 users: Refer to "Using the TD-30" (page 6) in this manual.
Using the TD-30:
- Confirm that the VH-11 and TD-30 are connected properly.
- After making hi-hat settings, release your foot from the pedal. With your foot off the pedal, turn on the power to the TD-30.
- Loosen the clutch screw and let the hi-hat rest naturally on the motion sensor unit.
- Press the [TRIGGER] button.
- Press the [F1] (BANK) button. The [TRIGGER] button will light, displaying the TRIGGER BANK screen.
- Press the [F3] (HI-HAT) button to display the TRIGGER HI-HAT screen.
- Set the Trigger Type for hi-hat to "VH11".
[Diagram: TRIGGER HI-HAT screen showing settings like Trigger Type, Hi-Hat Type, Foot Splash Sens., CC MAX, SENS.]
Adjust the offset using the VH-11's offset adjustment screw while observing the meter on the TD-30's screen. Adjust the offset so that the indicator appears correctly in the meter.
[Diagram: VH offset adjustment screw labeled OPEN/CLOSE, and a visual representation of the meter adjustment.]
VH Offset Adjustment Points
- If the closed hi-hat sound is difficult to attain, rotate the VH offset adjustment screw towards “CLOSE.”
- If the open hi-hat sound is difficult to attain, rotate the screw towards “OPEN.”
- Note: If the sound cuts off when striking the hi-hat forcefully, rotate the VH offset adjustment screw towards “OPEN.”
Adjusting the Hi-Hat
- Adjust the gap between the metal portion of the lower hi-hat and the sensor's center tip to approximately 3 mm, then tighten the clutch screw.
[Diagram: Illustration showing the 3mm gap adjustment between the hi-hat and sensor.]
- Change the spring tension by adjusting the hi-hat stand. Refer to your hi-hat stand's owner's manual for tension adjustment instructions. (Note: Tension adjustment may not be possible on some stands.)
Note: When performing, ensure the "Roland" logo on the hi-hat is positioned on the opposite side of the stand from the hi-hat pedal (refer to page 5).
Adjusting the Other Sound Module and VH-11's Offset
Using the TD-20
- Confirm that the VH-11 and TD-20 are connected properly.
- After making hi-hat settings, release your foot from the pedal. With your foot off the pedal, turn on the power to the TD-20. (Note: Offset adjustment may be incorrect if the hi-hat contacts the motion sensor unit during power-on.)
- Loosen the clutch screw and let the hi-hat rest naturally on the motion sensor unit.
- Press the TD-20's [TRIGGER] button.
- Press the [F1 (BANK)], [F2 (BASIC)], and [F3 (HI-HAT)] buttons to make the TD-20's settings.
- If the TD-20 lists "VH11" as a trigger type, select it. Other parameters do not need adjustment.
- If "VH11" is not listed, use the settings shown in the table below.
- Adjust the offset by rotating the VH-11's VH offset adjustment screw.
[Diagram: VH offset adjustment screw labeled OPEN/CLOSE.]
TD-20 Settings:
| Button | Parameter | Value |
|---|---|---|
| [F1 (BANK)] | Trigger Type | VH12 |
| [F2 (BASIC)] | Sensitivity | 10 |
| Threshold | 6 | |
| [F3 (HI-HAT)] | Hi-Hat Ctrl Type | FD |
| CC Max | 90 | |
| CC Resolution | NORMAL |
Using the TD-10+TDW-1/ TD-8/TD-6V/TD-6
- Confirm that the VH-11 and the sound module are connected properly.
- After making hi-hat settings, release your foot from the pedal. With your foot off the pedal, turn on the power to the sound module. (Note: Offset adjustment may be incorrect if the hi-hat contacts the motion sensor unit during power-on.)
- Loosen the clutch screw and let the hi-hat rest naturally on the motion sensor unit.
- Make the sound module's settings. Refer to the sound module's owner's manual for details.
- Adjust the offset by rotating the VH-11's VH offset adjustment screw.
Sound Module Parameter Settings:
| Parameter | TD-10 + TDW-1 | TD-8 | TD-6V/6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trigger Type | HH | CY1/PD7 | CY Type |
| Sensitivity | 6 | 10 | 10 |
| Threshold | 6 | 4 | 4 |
| Curve | Linear | LINEAR | LINEAR |
| Scan Time | 2.0 | 2.5 | 2.5 |
| Retrigger Cancel | 4 | 8 | 8 |
| Mask Time | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Xtalk Cancel | 20 | 20 | 20 |
| Mount Type | CymMount |
Notes to Observe When Using the TD-10+TDW-1, TD-8, and TD-6V/6: Do not turn on the power to the sound module with the hi-hat in the closed position; this may cause faulty operation. Make sure the hi-hat is open when turning on the power.
How to Adjust the VH Offset
- Adjust until you are satisfied with the correspondence between the hi-hat's opening/closing action and the change in tone.
- If the closed hi-hat sound is difficult to attain, rotate the VH offset adjustment screw towards “CLOSE.”
- If the open hi-hat sound is difficult to attain, rotate the screw towards “OPEN.”
- Note: If the sound cuts off when striking the hi-hat forcefully, rotate the VH offset adjustment screw towards “OPEN.”
Playing Methods
Open/Closed
The hi-hat tone changes smoothly and continuously from open to closed in response to how far the pedal is pressed. You can also play the foot-closed sound (pedal fully pressed) and the foot-splash sound (pedal fully pressed then instantly opened).
Bow Shot
This method involves striking the middle area of the hi-hat, corresponding to the "head-side" trigger input.
[Diagram: Illustration of the Bow Shot playing technique on the hi-hat.]
Edge Shot
This method involves striking the edge of the hi-hat with the shoulder of the stick. This triggers the "rim-side" sound of the connected trigger input.
[Diagram: Illustration of the Edge Shot playing technique, showing striking the edge and indicating the Edge Sensor. It also notes the Roland logo orientation.]
Specifications
- Size: 12 inches
- Trigger: 2 (Bow/Edge)
- Connectors: TRIGGER OUT Jack, CONTROL OUT Jack
- Dimensions: 314 (W) x 314 (D) x 154 (H) mm / 12-3/8 (W) x 12-3/8 (D) x 6-1/16 (H) inches
- Weight: 1.7 kg / 3 lbs 12 oz
- Options: Owner's Manual, Connection Cable, Tuning Key, Cable Tie, Insulating Plate
Note: Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice in the interest of product improvement.
Troubleshooting
No sound is heard
- Is the TRIGGER OUT connected to the sound module's HH CTRL jack? Connect the VH-11's TRIGGER OUT jack to the sound module's HI-HAT jack, and the CONTROL OUT to the sound module's HH CTRL (page 6).
The sound does not change when an edge shot is made
- Is a monaural cable being used? Use a stereo (TRS) cable.
Are you striking the area where an edge sensor is located?
- The VH-11 has an edge sensor only at the area closest to you, at the front (page 9). Position the "Roland" logo on the farther side, as viewed from the player (page 5).
Foot splashes difficult to produce
- If using TD-30/20X/20/12: Adjust the "Foot Splash Sens."
- If using TD-10/8/6V/6 or other modules: Adjust the VH-11's offset, stand, hi-hat clearance, and/or pedal spring tension.
Sounds cut out
- Have you adjusted the VH-11's offset? Adjust the offset screw (pages 6, 8). Sounds may cut out if the screw is turned too far towards "CLOSE." The offset may change during performance, and your stand might require further adjustment.
Unable to control opening and closing
- Have you adjusted the VH-11's offset? Adjust the offset screw (pages 6, 8). Proper adjustment ensures correct expression of opening/closing. The offset may change during performance, and your stand might require further adjustment.
Is the hi-hat open when turning on the power?
- When using TD-10+TDW-1, TD-8, and TD-6V/6, turning on the power with the hi-hat closed may cause faulty operation. Ensure the hi-hat is open.
Sounds are not triggering properly
- Is the trigger type set correctly? Make the trigger parameter settings for your sound module (pages 6, 8).
- Is the direction of the hi-hat correct? Position the "Roland" logo on the farther side, as viewed from the player (page 5).
- Are you using the special VH-11 clutch? Use only the clutch designed for the VH-11, as other clutches may prevent sensors from functioning properly.
If the Clutch Was Apart from the Hi-Hat
If the hi-hat clutch is inadvertently removed, follow this procedure to reassemble and attach it. Note: The clutch included with standard hi-hat stands cannot be used with the VH-11; use only the special VH-11 clutch.
[Diagram: VH-11 clutch reassembly steps showing the Clutch Top, VH Offset Adjustment Screw, Plastic Washer, Rubber Washer, Stopper (Upper), Spring, and Stopper (Lower). Instructions detail orienting the stopper and setting the screw.]
Note: Orient the stopper (upper) to match the groove in the hi-hat.
Roland Service Centers and Distributors
For repair service, access the URL below to find your nearest Roland Service Center or authorized Roland distributor:
[QR Code: Roland Service URL]
