(https://i.postimg.cc/FN6bGTcd/US-20-MAGICBOX-2.png)
I used to own a US-20, sold it and rebought recently for the combo of the VG and the GR. It's about to go off to Elantric for mods.
When I owned it before, it precisely switched between the Axon and the Gr-33 I had at the time. One, the other, or both. No surprises. I used a Godin LGXT back then.
Now, whatever guitar sound is selected for the A pedal plays through whether I'm using the VG or the GR. So, if I have, say, a strat on the VG A voice and B is a COSM synth, and then the GR is a nylon string with a synth, the strat plays on all selections unless I switch the VG A voice off, either with a switch or volume pedal. This assumes that the VG is the box powering the US-20. If the GR is the lead dog, it Uses both COSM and mags as the sound that plays constantly.
I don't think the US-20 is broken, I think the Carvin may be wired differently than the Godin. Or is it something else? I suppose I never thought about the LGXT one way or the other back then, because it was the only guitar variable. I downloaded the US-20 manual, which most certainly is written in "Engrish" and didn't clarify matters for me.
I don't geddit...
Read this thread for details of this standard US-20 behavior
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=3494.msg23360#msg23360 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=3494.msg23360#msg23360)
QuoteHas anyone experimented with sending their normal guitar pickup signal out to any processing or gear BEFORE running it into the GR55 and let the 55 output be a final buffer stage to the amp rig???
Many options to achieve External FX processing for GR-55 ( like adding an FX Loop) is listed on this thread
GR-55 F.A.Q.https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=4006.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=4006.0)
If you prefer to leave your GR-55 stock - you can insert any FX between your normal guitar out and the 1/4" input on GK-3
This can prove unwieldily for live use
I do these Mods to your Roland US-20 A/B/Y Selector ( this goes between your Guitar the GR-55 )
for $80 includes return shipping within the Continental US
Direct Guitar Out/in and External FX Mod for Roland US-20 - place up stream in front of the stock GR-55 /VG-99 13 pin Input
send me a PM (Elantric) for a shipping address
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=3664.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=3664.0)
(https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sweetwater.com%2Fimages%2Fcloseup%2Fxl%2F1600-US20_angle.jpg&hash=f70e4dd56eea3ed2cfbd6c737a7ccc0e359b1210)
(https://i.postimg.cc/FN6bGTcd/US-20-MAGICBOX-2.png)
Gundy Keller (of Roland Germany) likes his
(me on the left, Gundy on the right)
(https://i.postimg.cc/NGNqwqSw-/1372711394-1485530193-IMG-4116.jpg)
(https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rolandmusik.de%2Ftermine%2Fimages%2FExperience-Tour-GKeller.jpg&hash=044a09d1da9f680d242aded7666d4c5a111364a6)
http://www.rolandmusik.de/termine/aktuelles/gitarre/index.php (http://www.rolandmusik.de/termine/aktuelles/gitarre/index.php)
Thanks, Elantric.
US-20 went to UPS today, it'll reach you on Tuesday, so they say.
BTW,
Elantric's US-20 Mod is a great solution for quickly expanding the controls of your VG or GR unit. It's saved me from having to buy outboard MIDI controllers.
I just received the "Magic Box" US-20 from Steve Conrad. (aka "Elantric")
It allows you to plug any 1/4 cable into the GR-55 as well as add a foot switch to change GK button functions.
It works like a dream.
Steve modifies the Roland US-20 to add these features and his work is flawless.
Steve is the owner of this forum.
I will up load pics and info this week.
Bill Ruppert
Bill,
Thanks for the endorsement!
Wow! Can you help me to reach him... adress??
That seems a nice box for me!
Thank you very much!
Cédric ;-)
Quote from: cedric on October 01, 2012, 05:41:40 PM
Wow! Can you help me to reach him... adress??
That seems a nice box for me!
Thank you very much!
Cédric ;-)
Send a PM to Elantric, ( or Admin) and he'll no doubt explain things to you..
Cheers!
Cedric,
Your Inbox is full, so I can not send you details
Also you are in Canada, and at this time I only perform the US-20 mod to USA residents due to shipping/customs issues -although that may change.
Ok. My inbox is ready now... Well, don't see why it's a problem to send to canada... I bought many from the USA...
Customs is never a problem...
Check your Inbox
Guys, what address should I use to send my us-20 for modifications?
Thanks, James
Quote from: Elantric on October 01, 2012, 10:07:02 AM
Bill,
Thanks for the endorsement.
I do these Mods to your Roland US-20 for $80 includes return shipping within the Continental US
(https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi412.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fpp208%2Felantric%2FUS-20_MAGICBOX_2.png&hash=19df55599f573b7d84771edfedb2be95ea43b418)
Gundy likes his
(https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi412.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fpp208%2Felantric%2FROLAND%2520GR-55%2FIMG_4116.jpg&hash=1499bf849b95b9214525cf425f5e762c1c293757)
(https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rolandmusik.de%2Ftermine%2Fimages%2FExperience-Tour-GKeller.jpg&hash=044a09d1da9f680d242aded7666d4c5a111364a6)
http://www.rolandmusik.de/termine/aktuelles/gitarre/index.php (http://www.rolandmusik.de/termine/aktuelles/gitarre/index.php)
Quote from: JXWILL on October 11, 2012, 10:32:33 AM
Guys, what address should I use to send my us-20 for modifications?
Thanks, James
You need to send a P.M. to Elantric or Admin
Click on his name below to send a message.
JXWill
Check your Inbox
Anyone in the UK supply modified US-20s?
I'm still waiting on a reply if the GK-Expander is still available, but if its too long a wait I'll look at the US-20 mod option.
If I decide to go with Elantric's work, could I simply PayPal you (Elantric) the entire amount to purchase a US-20, get it modded and then have it shipped to me? That would save some time and money.
Thanks!
With this mod, is it safe to assume that the normal guitar input / FX loop is buffered? I.e. - could I plug a non-GK guitar straight in to use the GR-55 amp and effects models without any signal loss?
QuoteWith this mod, is it safe to assume that the normal guitar input / FX loop is buffered? I.e. - could I plug a non-GK guitar straight in to use the GR-55 amp and effects models without any signal loss?
No - you must use a separate Buffer between your passive guitar and the "Guitar input" on the modified US-20 - for example any Boss pedal will function as the required buffer.
QuoteIf I decide to go with Elantric's work, could I simply PayPal you (Elantric) the entire amount to purchase a US-20, get it modded and then have it shipped to me? That would save some time and money.
My Free Time is very sparse as well. Currently only doing mods on user owned US-20 that the user sends to me for the mod.
Thanks for the quick reply! I'll start checking for US-20's. Seems like they can be had for around $100-120 pretty easily. I'll send you a PM if that's the route that I decide to go.
Hi - Just a quick note to the lady or gent who wanted a US-20 mod in the UK - I'm happy to do this, I run an amp repair shop part time - I'll post a link to the website through which you can contact me - if the mods don't mind?
Elantric, hope I'm not stepping on any toes here, but I'm not likely to be offering this to anyone in North America! Feel free to object! :)
Is the US-20 case steel or Ali?
I'd really like to put something together for DIYers to make a breakout box with filters and 6 string insert loop, similar to billbax's great offerings (but without the cool videos). I need this for my own live rig, but I haven't got round to drawing a schematic. I'll start a new thread and share everything if/when I finally do.
Bassetrox,
I actually think this is a great idea, as I always wanted to have a community with "open source" hardware.
I have seen the cost of many desirable electronic hardware adapters get doubled when the global shipping costs and import tariffs get tallying up,
If you read all the posts here (as I have) - we have already have a wealth of info, and a smart electronics tech/engineer can interpret and implement a local solution.
Can you send this to me in Guam, USA zipcode 96921 ?
You could send it USPS Priority. Just fill out a simple customs form.
Thanks
Gregjon
The hurdle is I'm selling a mod to your existing device - not a whole product.
It's best you contact others who sell similar type products as I only do this mod on a customer supplied Roland US-20. I have none to sell.
Others are listed here
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?board=127.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?board=127.0)
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=9143.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=9143.0)
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=9692.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=9692.0)
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=9165.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=9165.0)
Hey Elantric,
Didn't PM because I thought this would be of interest to the group. Will your modded US-20 provide an FX loop for the COSM sounds on the GP-10? I would like to add a Slow Gear, it's a shame Roland left that out.
No, FX Loop is for normal Mag PU Guitars only
Its rather clear from the info here:
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=3664.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=3664.0)
Think about it - To add FX Loop for COSM Guitars would require a 7 conductor connection (6 String signals + Ground) minimum to feed 6 separate external FX processors - one per string.
If you do need that type of setup - look at the RMC Fanout box or Bill Bax Break out Box's here:
http://www.separate-strings.co.uk/ (http://www.separate-strings.co.uk/)
GK Accessories
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=72.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=72.0)
****UPDATE****
so guys after almost 3 months, i have managed to score myself a Roland US-20 Line Selector pedal.
next thing is, how to contact @elantric so i can have my unit modified?
or who mods US-20 in australia? pls advice
Try hitting Elantric's PM on this site, he probably does not get around to looking at everything. I think he still does the mod.
Sadly the cost of round trip shipping from Oz to California to Oz really creates an undesirable high cost which makes other GK 13 guitar FX loop options from third parties more cost effective.
All are listed here
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?board=174.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?board=174.0)
Primova Sound
DR Wayne Joness
RMC Fanout box
Quote from: Elantric on March 24, 2015, 09:21:34 PM
Sadly the cost of round trip shipping from Oz to California to Oz really creates an undesirable high cost which makes other GK 13 guitar FX loop options from third parties more cost effective.
All are listed here
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?board=174.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?board=174.0)
Primova Sound
DR Wayne Joness
RMC Fanout box
i see & understand @Elantric. question though. since the roundtrip cost is undesirable and not the best option for me who is based down under, would you be happy to share to me the diagram on how to tweak the US-20 so that I'll just try my best to do it myself? or do you have a spare modded US-20 that I can buy from you? just bcos Im desperate to complete my analog + GR55 combined pedal setup. I reck'n thats the best option I got, isn't it?
Hi ! .. Same problem here !. I live in Chile (South America).
It's is possible share the diagram or sell complete and moded unit ?
Thanks !
Hi,
If you can't use Elantric's mod for shipping reasons, maybe you might be interested in an FX loop PCB i made. I've got one going spare, it should be cheap(ish) to ship just the PCB to Chile (I'm in the UK). It doesn't do the S1/S2 breakout or US20 function though, you'd need Elantric's mod for that.
http://ampworks.co.uk/experiments/gr55-gk-bobbib7/ (http://ampworks.co.uk/experiments/gr55-gk-bobbib7/)
Hope you don't mind me suggesting this Elantric, I don't want to steal your business. :)
No problem - my "- Roland US-20 "Magic Box Mod"s are not earning enough -after 4 years, I think I've done 10 total.
FWIW - its really a basic mod, and the US 20 schematics have been posted for a while
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=480.msg1909#msg1909 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=480.msg1909#msg1909)
- I guess you just need to know where in the circuit to cut and splice the new jacks
or buy a PrimovaSound GKFX-21 for the Guitar Input
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=15681.0 (https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=15681.0)
(https://www.primovasound.com/gfx/gkfx21_3.jpg)
or add a Guitar Input to your GR-55
PDF Instructions for Roland US-20 "Magic Box Mod"- I/O External FX Loop, and Remote S1/S2
(see attached)
I love my GP-10 but would like to have an effects loop. I'll admit to not understanding of lot the posts here. I did purchase a GKFX-21 from CodeSmart that I use to alternate between my GK equipped guitar and a mandolin plugged into the guitar in on the GKFX-21. The mandolin of course doesn't require any effects pedals but I would love the option to run a couple pedals between my guitar and the GP-10. I don't know how to do this and use the 13 pin GK cable. I use time based pedals after the GP-10 and it works beautifully (I primarily run direct to a DI and to FOH).
Am I missing a way to incorporate a loop into this set up?
Thanks!
I'm not sure about the GKFX-21, but with my (very affordable, but badly named!) BreakOutBreakInBox http://ampworks.co.uk/experiments/gr55-gk-bobbib7/ (http://ampworks.co.uk/experiments/gr55-gk-bobbib7/) you'd do this...
GK guitar into the BreakOutBreakInBox GK input,
connect the BreakOutBreakInBox jack output to the jack input on your drive pedal,
the drive pedal output to the BreakOutBreakInBox input jack
the BreakOutBreakInBox GK OUT to your GP10 GK in.
You could probably do something similar with the GKFX-21 unit, but you'd need a second separate switcher box to do what you're after if you keep your mandolin in the rig.
Shameless Plug alert...
I've got one board left and I'll include a connection drawing detailing what you want if you buy it! I won't be building any more at this time, because it looks like Primova has it covered!
(https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fampworks.co.uk%2Ffiles%2F2015%2F06%2Fp7-board-e1438462414671.jpg&hash=317df38c42075b7ed398fbe7295ec6fe516160c6)
These "FX Loop " options ( Modified US-20 or GFX21 or the Buffer / FX Loop box from DR Wayne Joness) function on the normal 1/4" pickup signal path only.
The hex pickup is 6 signals - and if you seek to place FX on that signal path - there is the Spicetone 6APPEAL, which provides a hex Fuzz and many other options
more here:
Spicetone 6APPEAL
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=12104.0
And check out the RMC Fan Out Box
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=2062.0
More GP-10 FX loop tricks
https://www.vguitarforums.com/smf/index.php?topic=17552.msg125267#msg125267
Thanks for the information and links. At this point I'm not sure the extra real estate required on my pedal board for these items would be worthwhile. I'm content with with my sound, just suffer from the guitarist next best thing disorder.
Great info found as usual on this forum!
Ron
Quoteheavyweather wrote>
Hi,
Before selling the GI-20, I wanted to A/B it with the GR-55 (using the US-20, of course) to see if it had better tracking - I didn't want to sell the GI-20 if it was inherently better - and right away I encountered the issues of MIDI triggering external Synths differently
As you've described in many of your posts with the US-20, it doesn't AB/Y switch control between the GI-20 & the GR-55 -and both GI-20 & GR-55 MIDI out's are live all of the time).
I understand your posts where you say the US-20 doesn't actually switch all 13-pins, but rather, passes a signal to tell the "off" unit to take its volume to zero. The GI-20 doesn't have this issue, but ONLY if the GI-20 is plugged into Ch. A. Per your posts, I went into the SYSTEM settings and ensured that the GK-VOL setting = PATCH VOLUME, but it didn't correct the issue with either unit. Also, with the VG-99, when I selected BOTH, the COSM output drops significantly. That doesn't happen when I take the US-20 out of the circuit.
Essentially the US-20 is a Y cable for all 6 audio signals from the source GK guitar and the two destination GK processors.
As we know, the resulting user experience for all aspects of each GK processor is directly correlated to the
GK String Sensitivity Level
The measured GK String sensitivity (as monitored on the provided Meter on the GK processor ) WILL be different when physically connecting the US-20 A/B/Y Switcher and two GK processors due to insertion loss on the 6 String audio channels
Most users find they may need to raise the string sensitivity a bit higher, to compensate for the added signal load on the String audio channels when the US-20 A/B/Y Switcher and two GK processors are powered ON - as typical for live performance use.
Inserting the US-20 into the GK 13 pin signal path and connecting both target GK units