GR-55 - Where to Start - Am I trying the impossible?

Started by MitchP, April 26, 2021, 09:05:51 AM

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MitchP

Thanks to the forum and some youtube vids I've located, I'm making progress with building new patches. This one however, I've not found the key. I'm trying to emulate "Zombie" by Angry Wolves" by using a nice piano tone I located. I programmed the CTL pedal to bring in an analog crunch amp tone and it seems to work. However, when I stomp on the CTL again the modeled amp goes away, but the selection box for the PCM piano tone doesn't re-engage (hope that makes sense).

Am I in uncharted waters? Should I instead use the CTL to swap between the PCM piano tone and a PCM based pre-amp tone?

I already have a nice vid from RolandCanada explaining how to set-up multiple assigns for toe-down to toe-up for creating a clean to crunch patch based on the expression pedal. I'd rather use the CTL stomp if possible.

I'm continuing to research the info here, but haven't found anything yet. Thanks!
Tap into your inner Ace!

philjynx

Suggest you upload your patch so folk can see what you're up to.

MitchP

I don't know how to upload a patch, but I'll search the forum for instructions. Thanks!
Tap into your inner Ace!

admin

Quote from: MitchP on April 26, 2021, 03:07:36 PM
I don't know how to upload a patch, but I'll search the forum for instructions. Thanks!

GR-55 - How to Upload / Download GR-55 User patches.
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=3260.0

gumtown

Quote from: MitchP on April 26, 2021, 03:07:36 PM
I don't know how to upload a patch, but I'll search the forum for instructions. Thanks!

If you use the GR-55FloorBoard editor,

https://sourceforge.net/projects/grfloorboard/files/GR-55/

save your patch to file, then in a reply to this topic you will see a line below the dialog box you are typing in 
"+ Attachments and other options"

click on it and select
Attach:
Choose File

select the patch file to share, and it will be attached with your reply.

We can then examine your patch, make some changes to it, and repost it in a future reply.

Easy Peazy !!   8)

Free "GR-55 FloorBoard" editor software from https://sourceforge.net/projects/grfloorboard/

MitchP

Gumtown: Is that the editor that you pick various sites to download from? I've sat for hours trying to get a single one to work  :o

Thanks!
Tap into your inner Ace!

MitchP

By the way, the pdf file download http://www.roland.co.uk/assets/media/pdf/INFOCUS02.pdf produces an error on the Roland website like they yanked the link.  ::)
Tap into your inner Ace!

gumtown

#7
Quote from: MitchP on April 26, 2021, 03:54:10 PM
Gumtown: Is that the editor that you pick various sites to download from? I've sat for hours trying to get a single one to work  :o

Thanks!

This is the link to the 3rd party made editor for the GR-55
GR-55FloorBoard

https://sourceforge.net/projects/grfloorboard/files/GR-55/


install it, connect a USB cable to your PC/MAC, run the editor software, open the Preferences > Midi/USB menu, select "GR-55" as the midi I/O device, hit OK, it will restart, and you are in business.
Graphical visual real-time editing of the GR-55.
Free "GR-55 FloorBoard" editor software from https://sourceforge.net/projects/grfloorboard/

MitchP

WOW. Nice editor. finally got that puppy down and installed. I'll do the USB stuff tomorrow. Trying to multi-task with a new cell phone setup and it's the newest Samsung model. Lord, I thought the GR-55 was tough...  :o

Thanks!!!
Tap into your inner Ace!

DreamTheory

If you want the amp to toggle on and off, use an assign. From your description something else is going on here.
electric: Epiphone Dot semihollow body, acoustic: mahogany jumbo, recording: Cubase Artist 11 or Tascam DP008

MitchP

#10
I'm using the CTL pedal and an assign to bring the amp in and turn off the PCM piano. When I stomp on the CTL a 2nd time, I want the amp to shut off and have the PCM piano to return. I believe I've messed up the assign on the CTL and once it switches to amp, turning the CTL off doesn't return the PCM setting. I think there's a setting that controls the PCM's ability to return on. I'm going to try get the editor to work and produce a screenprint for uploading; in the meantime, I've royally screwed up the new phone LOL. Seems if you try to add a "widget" to the home screen and it fails, it leaves a dark rectangle saying "unable to attach widget" or something to that effect. No google solutions so far. I may have to reset and re-send all the old phone's data. I LOATHE technology!!! That's why I love my pedal board so much. Analog is so much easier on the brain, especially at my age~!
Tap into your inner Ace!

admin

Quote from: MitchP on April 27, 2021, 10:39:56 AM
I'm using the CTL pedal and an assign to bring the amp in and turn off the PCM piano. When I stomp on the CTL a 2nd time, I want the amp to shut off and have the PCM piano to return. I believe I've messed up the assign on the CTL and once it switches to amp, turning the CTL off doesn't return the PCM setting. I think there's a setting that controls the PCM's ability to return on. I'm going to try get the editor to work and produce a screenprint for uploading; in the meantime, I've royally screwed up the new phone LOL. Seems if you try to add a "widget" to the home screen and it fails, it leaves a dark rectangle saying "unable to attach widget" or something to that effect. No google solutions so far. I may have to reset and re-send all the old phone's data. I LOATHE technology!!! That's why I love my pedal board so much. Analog is so much easier on the brain, especially at my age~!

Try the multiple ASSIGNS patches that engage different tone through various regions of the expression pedal 

GR-55 F.A.Q.
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=3137


Patches are here

Use all four GR-55 tone sources mixed via Expression Pedal position
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=9591.msg68955#msg68955

GR-55 Control Switch - More than 1 function?
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=9863.msg70789#msg70789

* GR-55 Ultimate Multi Control patches (solves the GR-55 long Patch change delay (with mute) issue)
and
Jim Williams Multiple Assignment Patches.
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=5647.msg38806#msg38806
Learn multi-assignments by following all steps outlined here - then edit to suit YOUR needs.

Guitarplayer_10's  GR-55 Ultimate Multi Control patch step by step
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=7267.msg50612#msg50612



GR-55 - Use all four GR-55 tone sources mixed via Expression Pedal position
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=9591.msg151708#msg151708


Toby Krebs posted dozens of GR-55 patches he uses at his gig. Each patch uses Multiple Control Assignments for the Expression pedal to allow you to "pan" between rhythm and solo tones withing each patch  - this allow you to use One GR-55 patch per song and circumvent the long mute silence gap that occurs when changing GR-55 patches during a song.   
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=8709.0

admin

Quote from: MitchP on April 26, 2021, 03:56:16 PM
By the way, the pdf file download http://www.roland.co.uk/assets/media/pdf/INFOCUS02.pdf produces an error on the Roland website like they yanked the link.  ::)

https://cdn.roland.com/assets/media/pdf/INFOCUS02.pdf
QuoteMany Roland/BOSS products ship with Roland's Librarian software. Use
the Librarian to store your product's data on your computer, and then
reload the data into your product as you need it. The Librarian unlocks
the ability to really dig into a product, since it lets you save virtually
unlimited amounts of product data on your computer's hard drive. If
you're less ambitious, the Librarian can also simply store a backup
copy of your product's User memory on your computer.
This booklet tells you how to install and use Roland's Librarian
software. We're going to assume you know how to use your computer—
if you don't, please consult its documentation.


MitchP

#13
Admin: I got my GR-55 used and got no software, cables, users manual, etc. I've downloaded the .pdf user's guide and found it not of much help in my situation.

There is a menu I stumbled upon a while back and I can't find it again to save my soul. Not that it would help right now, but I'd like to know how to access it. It shows the PCM and analog tone paths and how to modify them to route in various ways to finally pass through the EQ (I think). How can I get to that menu item again?

I finally got my "Zombie" patch working kind of. On the first screen, I selected PCM and a nice piano. I turned off all check boxes for guitar, pickup, etc. dealing with anything but the PCM. I am using the CTL button for now to use the PCM only when off and when on all PCM functionality is off and a amp (Marshall crunch) tone is used.

There is one peculiarity than that is once the patch was saved, the CTL works correctly but when switching back to off, the PCM piano returns but the amp tone box is still checked. I've looked into the suggested "uber" CTL and pedal multi-assigns indicated above, but I don't need that level of sophistication. Having to move the treadle twice to activate chorus or turning the level knob down and up to activate echo is way too much for my needs. I've seen the video on multiple assigns from RolandCanada and it would be fine for a simple patch of a clean guitar with chorus in heel mode and a gained amp in toe down mode.

I'm thinking that setting up a single patch that can alternate between PCM piano and then to a Marshall crunch still leaves the amp tone checked, even when I turn off the CTL button. I'm getting a USB cable today to try the editor; I'm PC literate and I've used TC Electronics software to upload different tones to my Flashback echo and Petrucci chorus/flanger/ad nauseum pedal.

Please believe me; I'm not lazy about this. I got this patch where it is with no instructions and I feel pretty good about that.  ;)
Tap into your inner Ace!

admin

Quote from: MitchP on April 28, 2021, 08:27:17 AM
Admin: I got my GR-55 used and got no software, cables, users manual, etc. I've downloaded the .pdf user's guide and found it not of much help in my situation.

There is a menu I stumbled upon a while back and I can't find it again to save my soul. Not that it would help right now, but I'd like to know how to access it. It shows the PCM and analog tone paths and how to modify them to route in various ways to finally pass through the EQ (I think). How can I get to that menu item again?

I finally got my "Zombie" patch working kind of. On the first screen, I selected PCM and a nice piano. I turned off all check boxes for guitar, pickup, etc. dealing with anything but the PCM. I am using the CTL button for now to use the PCM only when off and when on all PCM functionality is off and a amp (Marshall crunch) tone is used.

just follow all the tips and advice here in the
GR-55 Top things to know
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?board=61.0

and

GR-55 Examples
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?board=116.0

and

GR-55- patches areas
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?board=67.0

but use Gumtowns GR-55 Floorboard app is mandatory
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=2951.0
https://sourceforge.net/projects/grfloorboard/files/GR-55/

GR-55 FloorBoard Editor Help
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?action=downloads;sa=view;down=86

MitchP

Thanks for being so patient. I'm in this for the looonnnggg haul. One more q, please? Is the USB to GR-55 a proprietary cable and if so, can I order it from Roland? I took the cover off the GR-55 USB input and it doesn't look like any of my current ones (phone, other pedals, etc.) will fit the same size.

Cheers!
Tap into your inner Ace!

philjynx

#16
Quote from: MitchP on April 28, 2021, 11:44:29 AM
Thanks for being so patient. I'm in this for the looonnnggg haul. One more q, please? Is the USB to GR-55 a proprietary cable and if so, can I order it from Roland? I took the cover off the GR-55 USB input and it doesn't look like any of my current ones (phone, other pedals, etc.) will fit the same size.

Cheers!
It's a standard USB printer cable (type A to type B plugs)  like this:Image 1 - 3m USB 2.0 High Speed Cable Long Printer Lead A to B Black Shielded Epson Kodak

admin

Quote from: MitchP on April 28, 2021, 11:44:29 AM
Thanks for being so patient. I'm in this for the looonnnggg haul. One more q, please? Is the USB to GR-55 a proprietary cable and if so, can I order it from Roland? I took the cover off the GR-55 USB input and it doesn't look like any of my current ones (phone, other pedals, etc.) will fit the same size.

Cheers!

It's a standard USB 2.0 Printer Cable to USB port on rear hidden behind small black plastic protection dust cap on new units

Start with Reading the GR-55 Owners Manual
https://www.roland.com/us/products/gr-55/support/
Watch tutorial videos

https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=3091.0
The separate side cover with USB Host port is for USB Thumb drives only

philjynx

Quote from: admin on April 28, 2021, 11:56:15 AM
The separate side cover with USB Host port is for USB Thumb drives only
I was wondering about the cover mentioned by Mitch as I don't recall the USB socket on the back having a cover. Meant to ask but senility knocked that on the head...
As Steve (Admin) said the other USB port tucked away in the side is NOT for a cable to be plugged in. I wonder what would happen if you did? I'm certainly not volunteering for that experiment.

gumtown

I remember the USB socket cover, they are initially rather difficult to remove.



The Square USB "B" socket on the back of the GR-55 is for computer connection,
the side panel USB "A" is for a memory stick/pen drive for making a unit backup/restore and storing audio files for the GR-55 "Audio Player" feature.
When choosing a USB pen drive, try to find the smallest memory capacity you require, larger ones seem to slow the power boot up process a little,
and many large USB sticks are not all compatible.

Once you get the "generic" USB A/B cable, download the USB computer drivers (only required for Mac, or older Windows 7 or less systems).
When you have the USB connected between the computer and GR-55, and satisfied the driver has installed,
run the GR-55Floorboard editor, if it does not Auto Connect, open the editor menu "Preferences > USB/Midi",
and select the "GR-55" as the midi I/O device, then hit OK, it will restart and the 'Connect" button should stay lit green and patch names populate the left panel list.
You will be in business to easily find all the GR-55 features and tweak away until you are content.
Free "GR-55 FloorBoard" editor software from https://sourceforge.net/projects/grfloorboard/

DreamTheory

Quote from: MitchP on April 28, 2021, 08:27:17 AM

There is a menu I stumbled upon a while back and I can't find it again to save my soul. Not that it would help right now, but I'd like to know how to access it. It shows the PCM and analog tone paths and how to modify them to route in various ways to finally pass through the EQ (I think). How can I get to that menu item again?

Edit > Mod or MFX > scroll to an item like amp > Enter > use arrow key to navigate to Structure tab > enter. Use wheel and arrows to select items and reroute.
electric: Epiphone Dot semihollow body, acoustic: mahogany jumbo, recording: Cubase Artist 11 or Tascam DP008

DreamTheory

Quote from: MitchP on April 28, 2021, 08:27:17 AM

There is one peculiarity than that is once the patch was saved, the CTL works correctly but when switching back to off, the PCM piano returns but the amp tone box is still checked.

This should be easy. Try this. Start with a fresh Init patch and see if you can get the amp to toggle on and off using only assigns for CTL. Make sure it is set to toggle. Then add assign to piano.

If you are sure you have done the assign properly, then check for interference with the System vs. Master settings. One defines the whole GR-55, and the other just that patch. You can choose universal function or setting by the patch. Be aware if you choose this, you will have to set up all patches one at a time. More work but less conflicts.



electric: Epiphone Dot semihollow body, acoustic: mahogany jumbo, recording: Cubase Artist 11 or Tascam DP008

MitchP

#22
Thanks to all with the info.  ;D My PC runs Windows 10.X so I guess no need for USB driver download. Picked up a USB to GR-55 cable (the jack on the back of the GR unit, not the side) at Radio Shack. Can't wait to hook it up today and use the easier interface. Yes, I am a noodler and prefer setting patch settings individually vs. the System defaults.

This is a great thread and I think other newbies would benefit from referencing it. Rock on!
Tap into your inner Ace!

okrocker

#23
Hey MitchP... I've also been learning how to ASSIGN to my Ctrl pedal...
Maybe you'll see something to help you! I had a similar situation, fix was hidden in settings below!
Under MASTER- PEDAL/GK CTL... My CTL pedal would turn off but not turn on
SW-OFF set to OFF
SW-ON  set to OFF

Much credit to gumtown and others!

Below is what I have working for my needs... Note: my focus is on the CTRL pedal

First (for total patch control) NOT GLOBAL!
SYSTEM tab- PEDAL/GK CTL- CTL tab, your CTL FUNCTION is set to PATCH SETTINGS...

( for PCM1, PCM2, MODEL, PICKUP ) ON/OFF with CTRL pedal
MASTER tab- PEDAL/GK CTL- CTL FUNCTION set to TONE SW

( assign up to 8 events to CTRL pedal or Expression pedal and more )
MASTER tab- ASSIGN- ( I am toggling between acoustic and electric guitars )
tab 1
switch- on
target- model tone number
target min- 11 steel  (acoustic)
target max- 03 H&H-ST  (electric)
source- ctl
source mode- toggle
act range lo- 0
act range hi- 127

tab 2
switch- on
target- AMP TYPE SWITCH
target min- off  (acoustic)  clean with no amp
target max- on  (electric)   preset to amp of choice under EFFECT tab
source- ctl
source mode- toggle
act range lo- 0
act range hi- 127

Make sure all other assign tabs are set to OFF if not wanted!