This is a good site about the 2001 Roland VGA-7.
Here's the link to the Roland VGA Yahoo Group:
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/RolandVGA/ (http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/RolandVGA/)
http://www.thehotdogs.net/vga/ (http://www.thehotdogs.net/vga/)
Yahoo RolandVGA Group
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/RolandVGA/ (http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/RolandVGA/)
http://youtu.be/nacBs08Ntyk (http://youtu.be/nacBs08Ntyk)
See attached Files
Roland VGA-7 Owners Manual
Roland VGA-7 MIDI Specification
Roland VGA-7 Preset Patch Chart
Behringer FCB1010 – Roland VGA-7
==
http://www.thehotdogs.net/vga/ (http://www.thehotdogs.net/vga/)
Usage with Behringer FCB1010 MIDI Footcontroller, some tips
VGA-7
Set Volume and WAH do fifferent MIDI Control Change Numbers:
[SYSTEM] pressed -> Power On
Use Parameter Down/Up and Value Up/Down
[SYSTEM] to Quit
1 1 MIDI Channel
2 On Omni
3 1 Device ID
4 7 Volume CC
5 14 Wav-wav CC
6 80 Tuner CC
7 65 EFX CC
8 66 Delay CC
9 67 Chorus CC
A 68 Reverb CC
b 69 Tap CC
C 70 Capo CC
d 75 User/Preset CC
E 64 Manual/Memory CC
FCB-1010
Set CNT1 and CNT2 to send on different MIDI channels:
[Down] pressed -> Power On
[Up]
CNT1
[Up]
MIDI Channel 1
[up]
CNT2
[Up]
MIDI Channel 2
[Up]
[Down] pressed -> Exit
MIDI Commands from FCB1010 to VGA-7:
Program Change 1-80
Control Change 1-31, 64-95
Send 127 for ON/OFF Value and 00 to confirm
(Make sure to set CNT1 and CNT2 to send on different MIDI channels,
else the FCB1010 will toggle the commands by first sending CNT1 then on the next
preset-press send CNT2)
Tuner ON/OFF -> CNT1=CC80#127 + CNT2=CC80#0
User/Preset -> CNT1=CC75#127 + CNT2=CC75#0
(this will only toggle between U and P on the selected patch)
Control Change 0 + 0,1
Preset 63 -> PrgChg5=63 CNT1=CC00#1
User 63 -> PrgChg5=63 CNT1=CC00#0
(this will leave the selected mode in Preset or User)
The Behringer FCB1010 is sending PrgChg5 _after_ it sends the CNT1 and CNT2 (!)
I have put together 10 nice-to-have commands in bank 9 of the FCB1010
1 USR P5CC00#0 + CC07#0 Set User - select patch 1, volume 0
2 PRE P5CC00#1 + CC07#0 Set Preset - select patch 1, volume 0
Usage:
Go to 92 - press on the 2
When you now go trough the patches 0-1 to 7-0. you will be selecting beetween the presets
Go to 91 - press on the 1
When you now go trough the patches 0-1 to 7-0. you will be selecting beetween your user presets
3 MAN CNT1->CC64#127 + CNT2->CC64#0
4 CAP CNT1->CC70#127 + CNT2->CC70#0
5 EFX CNT1->CC65#127 + CNT2->CC65#0
6 TAP CNT1->CC69#127 + CNT2->CC69#0
7 DEL CNT1->CC66#127 + CNT2->CC66#0
8 CHO CNT1->CC67#127 + CNT2->CC67#0
9 REV CNT1->CC68#127 + CNT2->CC68#0
0 TUN CNT1->CC80#127 + CNT2->CC80#0
These switches instantly and toggles between the states -
except for Tuner witch seems to be a bit unstable but it will eventually switch if you press and wait a while before next press...
Volume and Wav-wav
On each preset:
Set the volume to send on CC7 - min value 0 max value 127
Wav - CC14 - min value 1 and max value 127
COSM Guitar Amplifier Name
Due to Copyrights (my guess) Roland has not put the names directly on the VGA-7, instead they call it CLASSIC2 or METAL etc.
Here is a name convention I have compiled, based on the description of the sounds and a peek in the Usaer Manual for VGA-7's big brother VGA-88:
CLEAN
1 Roland Jazz Chorus 120
2 Fender Twin Reverb
3 Vox AC30
4 Polytone Mini-Brute
CRUNCH
1 Fender Pro Reverb
2 Vox AC30
3 Fender '59 Bassman
4 Matchless D/C-30
LEAD
1 Marshall 1959 Plexi I
2 Marshall 1987 I+II
3 Mesa Boogie
4 Soldano SLO-100
5 Peavey EVH5150
6 VGA Metal HiGain
From VGA-88:
CLEAN
JC120 Roland JC-120 (Jazz Chorus 120), a favorite of pro musicians around the world.
TWIN This models a Fender Twin Reverb.
VOX AC30 This models the clean sound of a VOX AC-30TB.
POLYTONE Polytone Combo, Mini-Brute. This is a sound suited to jazz.
CRUNCH
PRO This models a Fender Pro Reverb.
VOX This models the drive sound of a VOX AC-30TB.
TWEED This models a Fender Bassman Combo.
MATCHLESS This models the sound input to left input on a Matchless D/C-30.
LEAD
The desciption from the patches describes the Marshall sound as a 1987 (50W), the VGA-88 use the older 1959 (100w) model.
MS1959(I) This models the sound input to Input I on a Marshall 1959.
MS1959(I+II) This models the sound of a Marshall 1959 with Inputs I and II connected in parallel.
Mesa/Boogie This models the lead sound of the MESA/Boogie combo amp.
R-FIER RED V2 This models the lead channel of a MESA/Boogie Dual Rectifier.
SLDN LEAD This models a Soldano SLO-100.
METAL 5150 This models the lead channel of a Peavey EVH 5150.
METAL DRIVE A high gain and powerful metal sound. Rolands Own VGA HiGain Metal Amp.
More info:
VGA-7 User Manual size 3.8Mb
VGA-7 and GFC-50 size 100Kb
VGA-7 MIDI Implemetation size 1,3Mb
VGA-7 Preset Patch Chart high resolution - size 2,9Mb
VGA-7 Patchlist low resolution - size 500Kb
Description Patchlist (Pno) sorted on Patch Number size 50Kb
Description Patchlist (amp) sorted on amp type size 50Kb
FCB1010 with VGA-7 setup sample size 16kb
SysEx File of the settings above - size 3kb
COSM Amp Names size 45Kb
Reset your amp with:
Power on while holding WRITE. Release WRITE, then press WRITE again
Firmware V1.10 - file size 453Kb, updated software for VGA-7, hold CH + REV at power-on to determind what version you have
Note!
No guaranties for that this update will work! Please consult Roland Support if it fails in any way...
And, please do not use the included SMFUpd utility, use a sequencer program, where you have full control over the order to send the file.
The SMFUpd utility is notorious for having issues with it "feature" that allows you to target an entire folder of SMF MIDs and upload them in order.
Apparently it will sometimes use an arbitrary order but even more often it will send the next file before the device on the other end is ready for it.
With newer devices this is not a big problem, as they'll just fail the update and revert but in the older devices like VGA-7 it can brick the bootloader.
(Thanks to Jay Winks, Birmingham, AL for pointing this issue out)
If you are still will be using the UPDSMF.EXE Utillity from Roland, do not queue up all the files but send them one-by-one in correct order.
Here are some discussions of upgrading the VG-88, a similar process like the one on VGA-7:
VG-88 Update 1
VG-88 Update 2
First issued: 2005
Last updated: 2012
If only Roland made VGA-7 as a TWO, much lighter boxes in stereo!
Imagine you go to your gig only with two 16kgs each miracle boxes ...
yes, I would have bought such a combination.
But that 70+ kgs ugly monster with just ONE handle ... oh, no, no, no .. satisfaction :-)
That's why it was ill-fated.
Fwiw, Davor
Been there, done that - This was 18kg - but it did not sell.
http://www.bosscorp.co.jp/products/en/VGA-3/index.html
I own a two cabinet version of the VGA7! I bought it from a guy who felt the same; too heavy.
Unfortunately it it means 2 cabinets; the weight savings was not what you would think!
I've got an option to buy a cheap VGA-7. I'm wondering how the amp sounds when using the external inputs for a laptop. eg. full range and bypassing the preamp/fx. Also how do the sounds in the actual amp compare to the VG99?
I've already got a VGA-3 but this is only a single 12" speaker with no horns. I've always bypassed the internal sounds and used external preamps etc but I'm assuming the internal sounds would be similar (not really fantastic. I'm spoilt by owning an AxeFX Ultra)
Any info appreciated.
Thanks!
Most find the VGA-7 is extremely too heavy, and COSM Modeling is same "quality" as a VG-88, so Alt tunings will "flutter" and the COSM Amp modeling tends to be harsh compared to a VG-99.
If you are in the states, - skip the VGA-7,and get a Trayner K4
http://youtu.be/nacBs08Ntyk (http://youtu.be/nacBs08Ntyk)
I have a VGA-7. Originally I used the modeling, but now I use it for a nice clean amp for my VG-99.
PROS:
-beautiful clean full range stereo. Acoustic guitars sound nice as well as electric. Its tuned nicely.
- some of the amp models are really good. The Jc-120 model sounds amazing (of course its Roland)
- simple controls. When all you need is a nice amp, reverb, chorus, etc... it is way easier than the VG-99 to get a good sound.
- stereo line level inputs. L and R go to each 12"/tweeter combo respectively. Beautiful as an amp for stereo gear.
CONS:
- extremely heavy with only a flimsy handle on top. Almost pulled my back a few times.
- wheels aren't very sturdy. After a couple of years rolling over gaps in cement sidewalks, they ripped out.
- no display. Figuring out which amp models are which requires a cheat sheet (mine it taped to the top of the amp) and a funky button combo to select.
If you're not moving this beast much, and can get it cheap, I'd do it. Even if you use a line 6 pedal, VG-99 or similar it sounds really great.
I like mine enough that I snagged a second one. I agree that it is heavy, as did the guy I bought the second one from; he split the electronics from the speaker cab; ended up with two slightly less heavy cabinets.
It does a pretty good job as an amp. There is some type of noise gate on it that keeps it really quiet (at the expense of the cutoff that noise gates create.
The effects and editing are fairly limited. But I keep it in my office, going direct with nothing else (other then the FC-2000 foot controller.
If you can get it for a good price, go for it!
I have owned mine for over 5 yrs. If you will not haul it around much (weekly), then get it if it is cheap. The sounds and effects are almost similar to VG-88. It is easy enough to set-up. It very heavey and probably a heaviest guitar amp in its class for those have 2x12" speakers. Since I don't haul it much and just play a few events a year. I never got myself load and unload into and from car unless a 2nd person help me; otherwise, I might get my back hurt someday. Sometimes I saw some people selling a cabinet with speakers only without the amp controller (top part). So, separating the head and the cabinet definitely reduce the weight.
Welcome to the group hungtdao! :)
I also have a VGA-7, for five or so years. I don't know the VG-88, so I have to take the other users at their word on that. I use a Behringer FBC-1010 to control it, which works good. It is really way too heavy though. I screwed two grips onto the ends so two could carry it if necessary. There's a yahoo group for it. It has been quiet though, probably because Roland didn't make many of them and discontinued it soon after release. I agree with the pro con list and I like the stereo sound. But it is a beast, technically and in weight.
Has anyone found an editor for the VGA-7?
Hmmm, maybe three cabs would be better?
There was a VGA-7 at a local shop for $350. Not sure if that's a great price or not but I already have a JC120 and it it's just a JC120 with a VG-8 built-in it's not real attractive especially if it's a backbreaker. I have a picture I took of it with my cell phone in case anyone is interested.
MGR in burnsville? Shhhhhhhhh.... it may be mine soon.
Anyone used the GR-55 with the older Roland VGA-7?
It looks like a good possible match with stereo inputs on the back lots of FX features and the GA-7 has an adjustable GK2 input.
I have seen lots of talk on what amp(s) to match the GR-55 with and was wondering if anyone uses the VGA-7 or even the VGA-5 (or pair of VGA-5's).
Thanks!
I have used both the VGA-7 and VGA-5 with my GR-55, have not tried them with the VG-99 yet. I love these amps, but only use them in the basement studio because of the size and weight. The VGA-7 is around 85 pounds with a single handle on the top - perfect if somebody else is moving it :)
Thanks for the reply.
Do you find you miss the "true stereo" sound when you use the VGA-5 VS the VGA-7?
Or do you still get the kind of sound you like with the VGA-5 and GR-55?
Your point is well taken on the size/weight of the VGA-7
I can't really say I miss the stereo, but I don't really utilize stereo effects very often. If I'm doing something where I really want to hear the stereo separation I'll run one side to the VGA-5 and the other to the VGA-7, or plug into a Fender Passport.
I also have a VGA-7 and agree with Robbie on the weight. These are fine sounding amps for the guitar spectrum and have horns, but not quite the bass depth of a full range keyboard amp. The nice thing is if used with a US-20 or GPK-4, you then have two COSM modlers when used with the GR-55 for more Roland fun. Lots of possibilities with these VGA combinations.
I just picked up a used VGA-5 and will be doing some testing this week end. I'll post the results.
Thanks!
So far so good with the VGA-5. I am running it in JC-120 mode and the sound is clean, and bright. The amp is somewhat limited with only 10 memory patches alone, but of course that does not matter as I have the GR-55 hooked up!
For a "budget" minded person I do suggest finding one used and giving it a try.
I don't get the Pan delay effect on the GR-300 patch I want, but it is certainly usable. If I need the full stereo delay for home recording I can just go into my mixer of course.
ALSO, For tweeking the GR-300 emulation This link was very helpful! Roland GR-55 Guitar Synthesizer GR-300 Tutorial Pat Metheny (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oe-5fcD2xwo#)
As was of course the set up tips on this forum for my Godin Xtsa. In fact without the set up tips on this forum, the GR-300 patch is unusable with my Godin!
Still also thinking about the VGA-7 and trying it as well with its Stereo inputs in back.
So, is the VGA-5 a mono version? What size speaker(s) and how is the bass and weight? Perhaps a second VGA-5 would be a good lightweight stereo solution? You would then have a third COSM unit too! You could use two COSM's to do alternate tuned 12 string patches, for example. A sometimes mentioned shortcoming of the GR-55.
Are you sure it's not 10 banks of 10 patches?
Pick up a midi controller, like the GFC-50 or a Behringer FCB1010 and you can get to 40 patches on the VGA-5. Only 10 can be accessed without using an external controller. It has one 12 inch speaker and weighs in just under 53 pounds. It does not have a 13-pin input or do guitar modeling. You get 11 COSM amps, 11 cabs, and a bunch of effects. To get the 13-pin and guitar modeling you either have to go up to the VGA-7 or down to the VGA-3 - but then you need as US-20 or similar splitter so you can connect to both the GR-55 and VGA-3/7 to take advantage of the guitar modeling. By connecting to the "external in" jack (jacks on the VGA-7) you bypass all the amp effects and get straight to the power amp, so you could run the GR-55 independent of the amp settings AND use the front input to get to the COSM goodies in the amp. With the VGA-7 and GR-55 it's like having a VG-99's less talented brother on COSM modeling with 2 PCM tomes thrown in for good measure. I've wondered a few times how many different sounds I could trigger at once just using my Roland gear, but I have enough trouble with one or two at a time :)
Owners's manual is available for download from Roland here for the VGA-5
http://www.rolandus.com/products/productdetails.php?ProductId=243 (http://www.rolandus.com/products/productdetails.php?ProductId=243)
It looks like your questions were answered above, its mono, kinda large and heavy, but really sounds good. may for a second one or a VGA-7.
Thanks for the tip on the Midi pedals, that makes a lot sense.
Tried to flash a VGA-7 to 1.10 firmware. No lights on device after reboot. Just light thump when applying power. I followed the instructions to a T. I think I just wasted $250 plus $199 for the US-20. Anybody know how to revive one of these? I can't even figure out how to get the chassis out to look inside. Thanks if by some chance you know what to do. ???
Sorry if this comes over as a cross-post but I think my first was in the wrong place.
Tried to flash a VGA-7 to 1.10 firmware. No lights on device after reboot. Just light thump when applying power. I followed the instructions to a T. I think I just wasted $250 plus $199 for the US-20. Anybody know how to revive one of these? I can't even figure out how to get the chassis out to look inside for a serial port or JTAG for emergency flashing. Thanks if by some chance you know what to do. ???
Have you tried a factory reset? The procedure is detailed on page 47 of the downloadable user manual.
Yes, I have tried the <power>+<write> combo but it has no effect. The guy doesn't even light up when you apply power. But the amp makes the little thump and hum that lets me know the PSU didn't magically die right when I flashed the unit. It has all the characteristics of a bricked piece of electronics. I was hoping somebody had a service manual or something to let me know if there was a JTAG or similar inside where I could upload a failsafe firmware. I found an authorized service center nearby so if I have to I will put it on his bench but it sucks to have to fork out for that. Thanks.
It's been five or more years since I did the same update on mine, but I remember it using a dozen or more .MID files in an exact seqence. If by chance one of the files is corrupt or "played" in the wrong sequence, the upgrade is corrupted and can do what you see. I would:
1. Examine your MID files carefully. Make sure they are all around the same age and size, in fact are the same as the Roland site issued files, redownload if necessary.
2. Try running the upgrade again. If that doesn't work...recheck the filenames and sequence and try again.
3. In my case, it seemed a really bizzare way to do it, but I used Windows Media Player with the MIDI output in the Control Panel > Sound settings set to my MIDI interface. Worked like a charm for me.
There are also "superstitions" around the optimal MIDU interface being the old Serial Port types on the old PCs, the ones with the D connector that splits off into midi and game controller connections. Good luck finding a working one these days though.
Also, I monitor a Yahoo Group for the VGA amps, with a few dozen members, some rather dedicated members. You might read the postings there, maybe join to ask its members for more help.
Just go to Yahoo, look for the Yahoo Groups, then search for "Roland VGA", that should find it. I'll post a link here later, but I'm late for work now.
[UPDATE]: Here's the link to the Roland VGA Yahoo Group:
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/RolandVGA/ (http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/RolandVGA/)
Quote from: tekrytor on October 24, 2012, 09:38:50 AM
...If by chance one of the files is corrupt or "played" in the wrong sequence, the upgrade is corrupted and can do what you see....
I infer from your suggestion that even though my display is not working at all that you think I can still run the upgrade again? I didn't interpret the behavior that way; I took it to mean the thing wasn't booting at all and I was "bricked" as they say in the smartphone dialect. Maybe you are right on that though. I downloaded the files straight from the roland UK FTP twice and did a diff on them. They are identical. I will try some of your other suggestions. The WMP thing is quite interesting.
Typically Roland products from that era can get clobbered when you allow the "SMF Player" app to automatically attempt to feed all the firmware update files sequentially one after another.
Instead - its best to use your mouse and manually open each *.mid SMF file and then send each file one at a time.
Although I never heard of any Firmware newer than Version 1.10
https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/RolandVGA/files (https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/RolandVGA/files)
And what version are you attempting to install?
http://www.roland.co.uk/products/productdetails.aspx?p=251 (http://www.roland.co.uk/products/productdetails.aspx?p=251)
Quote from: Elantric on October 24, 2012, 02:19:19 PM
Typically Roland products from that era can get clobbered when you allow the "SMF Player" app to automatically attempt to feed all the firmware update files sequentially one after another.
Instead - it best to your your mouse and manually open each *.mid SMF file and then send each file one at a time.
I wish that was made commonly known. So in your opinion does clobbered = must go to the repair bench or do I stand a chance of trying to re-flash even though there is no display?
You guys are great BTW.
Quote from: Elantric
and I have searched around - where did you locate these "Roland VGA-7 Update" files?
And what version are you attempting to install?
http://www.roland.co.uk/products/productdetails.aspx?p=251 (http://www.roland.co.uk/products/productdetails.aspx?p=251)
The version is 1.10 and is available with the SMF Update utility bundled from the UK ftp. I found out about it from another guy's site but pulled the files from Roland UK directly.
http://www.thehotdogs.net/vga/ (http://www.thehotdogs.net/vga/)
QuoteMore info:
VGA-7 User Manual size 3.8Mb
VGA-7 and GFC-50 size 100Kb
VGA-7 MIDI Implemetation size 1,3Mb
VGA-7 Preset Patch Chart high resolution - size 2,9Mb
VGA-7 Patchlist low resolution - size 500Kb
Description Patchlist (Pno) sorted on Patch Number size 50Kb
Description Patchlist (amp) sorted on amp type size 50Kb
FCB1010 with VGA-7 setup sample size 16kb
SysEx File of the settings above - size 3kb
COSM Amp Names size 45Kb
Reset your amp with:
Power on while holding WRITE. Release WRITE, then press WRITE again
Firmware V1.10 - file size 453Kb, updated software for VGA-7, hold CH + REV at power-on to determind what version you have
Note!
No guaranties for that this update will work! Please consult Roland Support if it fails in any way...
==
**VGA-7 System Update Procedure**
Tools Required:
* VGA-7
* VGA-7 Update Files
* Sequencer capable of playing SMF
* MIDI Cable
***IMPORTANT: Once you begin the upate procedure, do not turn off the power of the VGA-7***
1) Connect the MIDI In of VGA-7 to the MIDI Out
of the sequencer with the MIDI cable.
2) Power on the VGA-7 while holding COSM GUITAR TYPE
and MANUAL.
3) Press WRITE while hoding TUNER.
4) When "--" is displayed send each SMF in numeric
order.
5) After the last SMF is sent, turn power off and back
on.
6) Perform Factory Reset: Power on while holding WRITE
then press WRITE.
(c)2001 Roland Corporation U.S.
I think you can probably save it yourself, if you simply reinstall the upgrade. It has at least a fair chance of working. I would attempt it before taking it to repair.
If you join the (moderated) Yahoo Group for Roland VGA, you can find the upgrade files there at:
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/RolandVGA/files/ (http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/RolandVGA/files/)
There are also posts on the same group, numbered around 120-122 that talk about this upgrade and the data transfer problems.
The odd thing about using the media player is that it apparently controls the playback tempo, including the rate of MIDI transfer, whereby some MIDI utilities may try to "play" the MIDI file data as fast as possible, which the VGA may not handle well/correctly/etc.
It's also a good idea to use a surge protector with the amp and the computer running the update. A notebook is best because its battery will prevent dropout on its side.
AND, critical, as Elantric pointed out in a previous message, perform each segment (e.g. play each MID file) manually, so the breaks are clean between files. Follow the instructions on screen. It tells you when its ready for the next file and which one to load.
Keep us posted...
Thanks for the Yahoo links, I had not been able to ferret that one out myself. This info about the transfer speed issue is very enlightening and gives me hope. Again, you guy are tops!
Sooo
I would try the following procedure
==
1) Perform Factory Reset: Power on while holding WRITE then press WRITE.
2) Connect the MIDI In of VGA-7 to the MIDI Out of your PC/Mac with a known good working MIDI Interface with the MIDI cable.
3) Power on the VGA-7 while holding COSM GUITAR TYPE and MANUAL.
4) Press WRITE while holding TUNER.
5) Wait 30 seconds, send each SMF in numeric order ONE AT A TIME:
In other words, launch the UPDSMF.EXE Application (which is included with the VGA7UPD_1.10.zip file)
Establish your MIDI Out connections in Preferences.
(https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi412.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fpp208%2Felantric%2FUPDSMF_zpscbac41a3.png&hash=1aac6438f841dfe62f5376a871034b13d04cec3d)
** Crucial Info - Avoid pointing the UPDSMF app "SMF Path" to the file directory that contains your "V7_110_*.MID" SMF files.
If you accidentally set the "SMF PATH" to the location of your "V7_110_*.MID" SMF files, then the UPDSMF app corruption prone process of
"Auto Download the next higher numerical Sequence file - before the target Roland product being updated is actually ready" occurs,
and this can clobber your VGA-7. Its the same paradigm as the corrupt prone VG-88 Firmware update procedure, which became a Roland Service nightmare back in 2001.
6) After the last SMF is sent, turn the VGA-7 power off and back on.
7) Perform Factory Reset: Power on while holding WRITE then press WRITE.
Looks hopeless. I have run this process repeatedly. But the unit is not even booting. I mean it displays zilch when I power it on. Unless there is a way to get inside (and this seems daunting, pull the prom and somehow obtain a full flash image (I would settle for any version) and put the prom in a burner, it looks like I just wasted a fair amount of money.
Looks like you have a unique doorstop,
thankfully the latter gear uses a bootloader, so if an upgrade goes wrong,
the bootloader will still enable a firmware change even if the operating system is bricked.
Still doesn't help your situation, i bet firmware 1.00 is now looking pretty good after all.
Where are you located Jay? Maybe someone on the forum is nearby and can have a look too.
Also, I haven't opened one up, but there may be a jumper inside that lets you reset it manually. If you're up to it, you might disassemble it a bit and have a look.
You might also call Roland Service and ask them about prices to fix this issue. I'm sure you're not the first to do this.
I think you are going to need to change your user name to Unhappyjay, i don't think there is anything that can be done to fix it.
Just to update everyone, the verdict was it's dead, Jim. I could've spent $80 bench charge plus extra labor and parts after that to get a new chip from Roland. Instead I took it back to Guitar Center who blew my mind by replacing it no questions asked. Floored. Now if I can just finish figuring out a workable way to program my FCB1010 to control it. I'm about halfway down that road. Thanks guys.
That worked out well, real happy for you! Could have been much worse.
I have to say I'm SERIOUSLY impressed with the way my rig sounds through my ( Roland ) VGA7, and would reccomend any V-guitarist to try one.
Only downside is it's a heavy beastie, in my case compounded by the fact it's flight cased.....
BUT....... for the tone I'm getting now, I'll take the backache !!!!
Regards,
TeeJay
Just started using my VGA7 live this weekend, and MAN..... what a tone I'm getting with it!!!! ;D
It's a seriously heavy beastie, especially flightcased, but worth every pound / kilo ( delete as applicable ), IMHO.
I really thought I was getting a good tone with my old rig, but this absolutely blows it out of the water, a real quantum leap in performance.
I'm thinking, this amp was designed for V-guitar, so maybe I shouldnt be surprised.....
Anybody else on here using one?
Regards,
TeeJay
I use the VGA-7 in my home studio with the VG-99, GR-55, or with just a GK-equipped strat. Great tone, I definitely recommend the VGA-7 as long as somebody else has to carry it, and recently I've been seeing them as low as $299 on Guitar Center's used gear page
Quote from: datsunrobbie on September 23, 2013, 01:11:08 PM
I definitely recommend the VGA-7 as long as somebody else has to carry it,
I don't have anyone to carry it, but its flightcase has some serious castors ;D
Several Guitar Center stores are giving them away. Far too heavy for me though I sure like what they offer and yes they are ideal for v- guitar. For most of what I do these days I have two Alto 10 in. powered speakers I bought because I can lift them over my head with one arm. They happen to sound good but all I cared about when I bought them was the fact that they are light .Two hernia surgeries made me change my weight requirements for amplification. Enjoy!
I've got one also and like teejay, mine seldom leaves the house, it's so heavy.
..sorry for tearing the thread out of its grave ... I recently got a VGA-7 thrown away by its former user. because the whole digital section seems to be out of function. No lights, no reaction. The poweramp section is in function, using the EXT in a signal is coming out of the speakers, adjustable by Master volume. Easy way could be there is missing any power coming from the power amp board to the digital board. Unfortunately I can't find any instruction about the values that must be seen at the multiplug.
Is there anybody around who can provide me with a service manual ?? Would be nice, even if I decide to bring it to someone knowing more about electronics than me :D
Its best to contact your local Roland Repair Center.
They have access to the VGA-7 Service Manual, and I have heard that some Roland Repair Centers do re-sell Service Manuals to users.
@admsustainiac excellent idea, I will try this!
Hi all, been a long time since I was around.
I purchased a new VGA-7 amp chassis without the cab that I'm going to install in a head box.
The bloke who pulled it out of the broken in shipping cab paid no attention and so far I haven't been able
to find a schematic or good pic.
If a VGA-7 user would be kind enough to look in the back of their amp and tell me what colors go to which
speakers it would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks Mo
I've bought a VGA-7 (actually my second having sold the first and succumbed again when this one was listed locally).
The previous owner had never used a 13 pin pickup, and I'd not got a 13 pin guitar available (with plans to buy a Godin, but not quite coordinated)
From the pinout, I learned 1 to 6 are the strings, so attempted to inject a 500Hz signal of a few hundred millivolts between one of the pins and ground. Nothing happened.
Is there a method for a basic function check of the 13 pin of the amp? The rest, from 1/4 in analog input works fine.
What was I missing?
I know Roland stuff is reliable, but the seller - a reasonable local guy - and I would like to know all is well.
Thanks
You really need a GK 13 pin PU to get that amp running
Review the schematics thread
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=73.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=73.0)
There is only one Ground, the large round barrel on the DIN13 plug
Also no sound will occur without the GK volume Control Voltage (+5VDC) feeding pin #8
Thank you. I was using the shield as return
That's what I had deduced, hoping the control voltage wasn't necessary for basic function, just the logic up / down & volume.
frank:
I realize it's quite some time since your post, but I just stumbled on it. I'd be very interested in knowing if you scored a technical manual with schematics. A well known amp modder and builder is willing to put a stereo FX loop in mine if I can get hold of the schematics.
If you read the owner's manual, you'll realize there's already a stereo effects loop built into the amp.
Why not take it to store like Guitar Center and try out the amp with GK equipped guitar? It's less painful than reverse engineering a cable.
Aloha everyone!
Mahalo for all the great info on this forum! A while back I won a VGA-7 head in an auction on
ebay for parts or repair,the winning bid was $20.95, shipping was $50.00.I hoped I would be able to reset or use my original VGA-7 to bulk dump into the head and restore it but I couldn't even get it in mode to accept a load.
I put it away and later noticed this post( ..sorry for tearing the thread out of its grave ... I recently got a VGA-7 thrown away by its former user. because the whole digital section seems to be out of function. No lights, no reaction. The poweramp section is in function, using the EXT in a signal is coming out of the speakers, adjustable by Master volume. Easy way could be there is missing any power coming from the power amp board to the digital board. Unfortunately I can't find any instruction about the values that must be seen at the multiplug.)
I finally got around to checking and yes it's true the power amp still works ;D !
So now i should be able to use it to power my GP-10,among other things.
I just wanted to remind everyone that even if the preamp section is fried due to trying to update (it seems that was a common problem and there are probably lots of cheap to free heads around) .
Now I need to find out the spk wiring sequence,there are 2 blk (grnd probably)2 red,2 orange,and 2 brwn. Anyone got any Ideas? Thanks in advance and good luck finding deals!
Can anyone tell me how I can change the internal battery on my VGA 7? I really don't want to pay to have this done if I don't have to.
There's a vga-7 for sale in my neighbourhood. I'm using a vg-88 (guitar modeling, not amp modeling) and a katana head/2x12 marshall cab and I'm happy with that. Am I missing an opportunity here? Is the vga-7 a better sounding amp?
Quote from: Gurbz on February 08, 2018, 10:15:09 PM
There's a vga-7 for sale in my neighbourhood. I'm using a vg-88 (guitar modeling, not amp modeling) and a katana head/2x12 marshall cab and I'm happy with that. Am I missing an opportunity here? Is the vga-7 a better sounding amp?
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=262.0;attach=11445
How strong is your back?
Weight 37.6 kG / 83lbs
:)
Sound quality is the question
Quote from: Gurbz on February 09, 2018, 02:56:26 AM
:)
Sound quality is the question
VGA-7 is Stereo 2 x 12" with separate HF tweeters
But its open back cab lacks low end for use with Synth patches
Its GK COSM processing is a step backward from the VG-88 IMHO.
And at 83 pounds the cab is heavy and bulky when moving, and service manuals are unobtainium , its pushing 20 years old - they only made them 2000-2001, and expect electrolytic cap failure / power supply failure.
start here and download all the VGA-7 docs on the bottom of 1st post
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=262.0
Thanks, it is still for sale :)
Quote from: admsustainiac on February 09, 2018, 01:45:43 AM
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=262.0;attach=11445
How strong is your back?
Weight 37.6 kG / 83lbs
You'll need a roadie...
(https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-wsbf96emIqQ%2FVnBLw3rA9cI%2FAAAAAAAAAY4%2Fk4BYDzDrnMc%2Fs1600%2FIgor_Stravinsky.jpg&hash=41bb9d135914696ab2eab532ddd8308fc36b6025)
Bricked Roland VGA-7. I still use mine, the one I bought "new" a long time ago. That is, I still used it until a few years ago, when I thought I'd upgrade the original firmware from 1.0 to 1.1. What could go wrong? Of course the upgrade failed. An occasional front panel light might come on when powered up, but otherwise it was bricked dead. Roland USA was no help. Roland Japan was no help. >:(. So, I set to fixing it, on my own.
The short of this, I made a "new" copy of the Intel Flash chip based on the 1.1 upgrade bits that I managed to find on some site (UK, I think), removed the damaged chip and replaced it with my copy. My VGA-7 is now back in business :). (The attached picture shows the "damaged Flash" chip before replacement.)
If anyone still has a bricked VGA-7, and it's important enough to try to get it working again, maybe I can help. As I invested a small fortune of $ and a huge amount of time in what I needed to do this, there's no way I'd ever come close to making my money back. But, I will offer the few extra copies I have of this flash chip for a nominal fee to help out the few who still might care: $$ + shipping.
Changing a TSOP48 chip is not too bad, "if you know how". If you don't know yourself, there's probably somebody close by who is qualified and has the tools. The main board has to come out, change the chip, check each pin for continuity and no pin-to-pin shorting, re-assemble and you're done (if that's the only problem!!) But keep in mind, that I offer no guarantees and no refunds. This worked for me, it might for you.
Wow - that is a great offer for those with a bricked VGA-7
FWIW - several folks acquired a VGA-7 without cabinet or speakers and were desperate for any info on the speaker connections
If you could post any pics of the VGA-7 Speaker connections , that might help many others
Mo Tanner wrote>
QuoteHi all, been a long time since I was around.
I purchased a new VGA-7 amp chassis without the cab that I'm going to install in a head box.
The bloke who pulled it out of the broken in shipping cab paid no attention and so far I haven't been able
to find a schematic or good pic.
If a VGA-7 user would be kind enough to look in the back of their amp and tell me what colors go to which
speakers it would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks Mo
(https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fblognew.aruba.it%2Fblog.gibielle.it%2Fresized%2F%2Fgallery%2F%2Fuid_12a65e61eef.580.0.jpg&hash=1f01df38794f64283424b6473c41adb3f5d6af63)
(https://gbmedia.azureedge.net/usercontent/gear/5755930/p2_ubt4vbrpx_so.jpg)
VGA-7 speaker wiring: Red/Black - right channel (stage right), Orange/Brown - left channel. Large, spade lugs for woofers, small spade lugs for tweeters. Original speakers terminals are marked or designated +/-: red and orange connect to "+" terminals.
I went against my better financial and physical logic and bought the 80 pound plus VGA7 but got it for under $375 and 70 miles from home.
Generally they go for 500 or more and they are not local.
Now I have my guitar man toys of my dreams.
My three sons.
GODIN XTSA 3 VOICE
ROLAND VGA7
ROLAND GR55
I need a free roadie for the almost 100 pounds the 8th inch plywood and cover I will make for amp.
its a happy week
Now comes reality of being an old fat guy playing one of the best set ups on Earth and with no band or gigs. IM HAPPY
I've been unable to find a schematic for this amp, and was wondering if anyone could point me in the right direction. For now , does this amp have internal fuses? I've seen these power transformers with several fuses before in other various SS circuits. Thanks in advance
If you locate VGA-7 Service Notes - share
I sold my original VGA-7 in 2010 for about $700. I just purchased one in perfect condition for $299 for use with my Kemper. The original 12's were replaced with Celestial coaxials, with switch to activate the stock tweeter/horns, or, a pot to "dial in" the tweeters on the Celestians.
The coax's feel better. and are much less directional than I remember my old VGA-7. If I moved a few feet either way, it lost the belief of it being a real guitar amp. I rarely use the original horns, and actually dial the coax tweeters down to about 70%.
This is much more economical that the FRFR cabs I see Kemper/Axe FX guys buying, and close to the same weight.
If I could excise the COSM/VG parts, and just keep the Aux in to power amp to save weight I would, as Thats all I ever use.
BTW, only the VGA-7 had the Tweeters. The VGA 3, and VGA 7 had gk inputs, but the VGA 5 didn't, which I always wondered about.
Cool speaker mod, a guitarists take on something like FRFR.
Can you go into the circuit you used to dial in the tweeters? Or was it straight-forward: Decouple the Celestion tweeters, feed from the VGA-7 tweeter outputs?
How heavy is the VGA-7? Some of those VGA series were very weighty, if I remember.
I hope merman93 is going to give us a review ;-) Some of us still GAS out and lust after these things. I still think I can get this puppy to really kick but. By the time I find one however, I will have acquired osteoporosis and have shrunk by 6 inches and will have to pay to have it moved.
The Tweeters have a separate feed, so I would imagine an L-Pad, however, I would like to know about the crossover. If it has the crossover and feeds from that, the Coaxial speakers could be limited by this. You would have to feed the CoAxials first and tap from there with an L-Pad.
Schematic is tough to aquire. I imagine you would have to go to a service tech for that. I had a chance at one that was mint, but shut off after a few seconds. Of course I assumed a dead short and it could be an easy fix and I could 'steal' it for $200. Then I squashed the GAS on that one in leau of owning a boat anchor or literal 'bricked' boat anchor.
If merman93 has Celestions new Coax guitar speaker (F12X-200), that's a score on those alone. I picked up a nice Sony TA-N220 Quad Power amp for cheap to get racked and I'm going to build some pine boxes for the F12X-200 Celestions. Maybe nice dovetail joints and stain them so I keep them in the living room.
I was lucky to keep checking my "Let Go" app, for local pickup merchandise. I wouldn't have bought such a big, and older item to be shipped, they almost always arrive not working and then the seller, buyer, shipping company, and insurance company begin the finger pointing dance.
The seller lived about 45 minutes away, and his basement resembled a Pawn Shop or small music store filled with gear. He didn't mention the Speakers in the ad, but explained when he plugged it in for a demo.
There is a 2 position switch mounted to the backboard, that selects Roland Tweeter or Celestion, and a pot next to it that dials in or out the tweeter when it is selected for the Celestion.
It's all secured well, but the switch and pot aren't protected,...they are sticking out a bit, and could easily just be sheared off during the inevitable moving of the beast.
I'm assuming he was truthful, you can obviously tell the variations, but I haven't taken the back board off to make sure they are Celestions. The vega 7 is a closed back design with a small bass port, so none of innards are visible. When other projects are completed around here, I plan on recessing the mounting of these with some type of plate. I'll take pics and access at that time.
About schematics,..Unless an authorized Roland repair tech requested materials for a specific repair, and then disseminated them to others, they are not likely to be found in the wild. Roland isn't known for having "loose lips".
EFFICACY WROTE>
QuoteVga-7 Solved. "blo" battery low. Replacement baterry is a CR2032 (printed on the circuit board adjacent to the button holder). Access is by releasing 6 screws accross top of cabinet and 2 at each side that secure the amp chasis within the cabinet & slide the chasis partially towards the rear to expose access to the battery loaction on the circuit board to the left (viewed from frant of amp). With the amp unplugged from power, found that if new battery is replaced immediately after removal (takes about 5 seconds to clip a new replacement battery in) the amp's settings are retained, & firrmware was not disturbed. For convenience a long shaft insulated screw driver with small 4-5mm blade to partially prise up the battery retaining tab, while using another smaller blade screw driver helps ease the old battry up and then prises it out of the holder - this method assisted working in the confined space available and avoided the need to disconnect speaker leads etc to remove the the chasis from the cabinet entirely to make the change - there is no need to do that. Alls well that ends well, my Vga-7 has its mojo back!!!! Now feeling more relaxed about also servicing the Vga-3 when it eventually also encounters a flat battery. Cheers
Please bear with me as i have no clue what im doing here. This is the first time using any kind of forum to find answers, cant seem to figure out how to navigate the site. So here goes.
Im trying to find help throubleshooting an issue with a roland vga-7 that i recently bought. I cant come up with anything in a search thats even close to the issues im having. I cant figure out how to make posts with photos of what the issue is. If anyone happens to see this and could possibly point me in the right direction, i would greatly appreciate it.
What is your issue?
These amps work best with the higher output Roland GK-2A pickup
(Not as well using the lower output GK-3
Heres a VGA-7 page with most info required
https://www.thehotdogs.net/vga/