Owner's Manual: Thank You, and Congratulations On Your Choice of The BOSS Loop Station

Owners Manual
Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the BOSS RC-50

Loop Station.
Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled:
USING THE UNIT SAFELY (page 23)
IMPORTANT NOTES (page 45)
These sections provide important information concerning the proper
operation of the unit.
Additionally, in order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp of
every feature provided by your new unit, Owners manual should be read in
its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient
reference.
Printing Conventions in This Manual

Text or numerals enclosed in square brackets [ ] indicate buttons.
[WRITE]
[EXIT]
WRITE button
EXIT button
EXP pedal is an abbreviation of expression pedal.

Reference such as (p. **) indicate pages in this manual to which you can refer.
Copyright 2005 BOSS CORPORATION
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written
permission of BOSS CORPORATION.
G**********
04-10-1
USING THE UNIT SAFELY
The
symbol alerts the user to important instructions
or warnings.The specific meaning of the symbol is
determined by the design contained within the
triangle. In the case of the symbol at left, it is used for
general cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.
Used for instructions intended to alert

the user to the risk of death or severe
injury should the unit be used
improperly.
the user to the risk of injury or material
damage should the unit be used
improperly.
* Material damage refers
other adverse effects
respect to the home
furnishings, as well
animals or pets.
The
symbol alerts the user to items that must never
be carried out (are forbidden). The specific thing that
must not be done is indicated by the design contained
within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it
means that the unit must never be disassembled.
to damage or
caused with
and all its
to domestic
The symbol alerts the user to things that must be

carried out. The specific thing that must be done is
indicated by the design contained within the circle. In
the case of the symbol at left, it means that the powercord plug must be unplugged from the outlet.
001
009
Before using this unit, make sure to read the

instructions below, and the Owners Manual.
Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord,

nor place heavy objects on it. Doing so can
damage the cord, producing severed elements
and short circuits. Damaged cords are fire and
shock hazards!
..........................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................
002c
Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its

AC adaptor.
For the U.K.

IMPORTANT: THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.
BLUE:
NEUTRAL
BROWN: LIVE
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying
the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.
Under no circumstances must either of the above wires be connected to the earth terminal of a three pin plug.
For EU Countries
This product complies with the requirements of European Directive 89/336/EEC.
For the USA
010
..........................................................................................................
003
Do not attempt to repair the unit, or replace parts

within it (except when this manual provides
specific instructions directing you to do so). Refer
all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland
Service Center, or an authorized Roland
distributor, as listed on the Information sheet.
..........................................................................................................
004
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); or
are
Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors);
or are
Humid; or are
Exposed to rain; or are
Dusty; or are
Subject to high levels of vibration.
..........................................................................................................
007
Make sure you always have the unit placed so it is

level and sure to remain stable. Never place it on
stands that could wobble, or on inclined surfaces.
..........................................................................................................
008c
Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with

the unit. Also, make sure the line voltage at the
installation matches the input voltage specified on
the AC adaptors body. Other AC adaptors may
use a different polarity, or be designed for a
different voltage, so their use could result in
damage, malfunction, or electric shock.
..........................................................................................................
This unit, either alone or in combination with an

amplifier and headphones or speakers, may be
capable of producing sound levels that could
cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for
a long period of time at a high volume level, or at
a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience
any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should
immediately stop using the unit, and consult an
audiologist.
..........................................................................................................
011
Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable

material, coins, pins); or liquids of any kind
(water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate the unit.
..........................................................................................................
012b
Immediately turn the power off, remove the AC

adaptor from the outlet, and request servicing by
your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center,
or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on
the Information sheet when:
The AC adaptor, the power-supply cord, or the
plug has been damaged; or
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Unauthorized changes or modification to this system can void the users authority to operate this equipment.
This equipment requires shielded interface cables in order to meet FCC class B Limit.
For Canada
NOTICE
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
AVIS
If smoke or unusual odor occurs

Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been
spilled onto the unit; or
Cet appareil numrique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Rglement sur le matriel brouilleur du Canada.
The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise

has become wet); or
For the USA
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Compliance Information Statement
The unit does not appear to operate normally

or exhibits a marked change in performance.
..........................................................................................................
Model Name :
Type of Equipment :
Responsible Party :
Address :
Telephone :
RC-50
Loop Station
Roland Corporation U.S.
5100 S.Eastern Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90040-2938
(323) 890-3700
013
101b
In households with small children, an adult

should provide supervision until the child is
capable of following all the rules essential for the
safe operation of the unit.
The unit and the AC adaptor should be located so

their location or position does not interfere with
their proper ventilation.
..........................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................
Always grasp only the plug on the AC adaptor

cord or the body of the AC adaptor when
plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or
this unit.
..........................................................................................................
015
103b
102c
014
Protect the unit from strong impact.

(Do not drop it!)
Do not force the units power-supply cord to

share an outlet with an unreasonable number of
other devices. Be especially careful when using
extension cordsthe total power used by all
devices you have connected to the extension
cords outlet must never exceed the power rating
(watts/amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive
loads can cause the insulation on the cord to heat
up and eventually melt through.
..........................................................................................................
At regular intervals, you should unplug the AC

adaptor and clean it by using a dry cloth to wipe
all dust and other accumulations away from its
prongs. Also, disconnect the power plug from the
power outlet whenever the unit is to remain
unused for an extended period of time. Any
accumulation of dust between the power plug
and the power outlet can result in poor insulation
and lead to fire.
..........................................................................................................
016
104
Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult

with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service
Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as
listed on the Information sheet.
..........................................................................................................
Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming

entangled. Also, all cords and cables should be
placed so they are out of the reach of children.
..........................................................................................................
106
Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on

the unit.
..........................................................................................................
107c
Never handle the AC adaptor or its plugs with

wet hands when plugging into, or unplugging
from, an outlet or this unit.
..........................................................................................................
108b
Before moving the unit, disconnect the AC

adaptor and all cords coming from external
devices.
..........................................................................................................
109b
Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and

unplug the AC adaptor from the outlet.
..........................................................................................................
110b
Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning

in your area, disconnect the AC adaptor from the
outlet.
..........................................................................................................
118c
Keep a USB connector cap you may remove and

the included RC-50 in a safe place out of
childrens reach, so there is no chance of them
being swallowed accidentally.
..........................................................................................................
120
Always turn the phantom power off when

connecting any device other than condenser
microphones that require phantom power. You
risk causing damage if you mistakenly supply
phantom power to dynamic microphones, audio
playback devices, or other devices that dont
require such power. Be sure to check the specifications of any microphone you intend to use by
referring to the manual that came with it.
(This instruments phantom power: 48 V DC, 10 mA Max)
..........................................................................................................
IMPORTANT NOTES
291a
In addition to the items listed under USING THE UNIT SAFELY on page 23, please read and observe the following:
Power Supply
Maintenance
301
401a
Do not connect this unit to same electrical outlet that is

being used by an electrical appliance that is controlled by
an inverter (such as a refrigerator, washing machine,
microwave oven, or air conditioner), or that contains a
motor. Depending on the way in which the electrical
appliance is used, power supply noise may cause this unit
to malfunction or may produce audible noise. If it is not
practical to use a separate electrical outlet, connect a
power supply noise filter between this unit and the
electrical outlet.
For everyday cleaning wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth
or one that has been slightly dampened with water. To
remove stubborn dirt, use a cloth impregnated with a
mild, non-abrasive detergent. Afterwards, be sure to wipe
the unit thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.
302
The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long

hours of consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a
cause for concern.
307
Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn off the

power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions
and/or damage to speakers or other devices.
Placement
351
Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other equipment

containing large power transformers) may induce hum.
To alleviate the problem, change the orientation of this
unit; or move it farther away from the source of interference.
352a
This device may interfere with radio and television

reception. Do not use this device in the vicinity of such
receivers.
352b
Noise may be produced if wireless communications

devices, such as cell phones, are operated in the vicinity of
this unit. Such noise could occur when receiving or initiating a call, or while conversing. Should you experience
such problems, you should relocate such wireless devices
so they are at a greater distance from this unit, or switch
them off.
354a
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.
355b
When moved from one location to another where the

temperature and/or humidity is very different, water
droplets (condensation) may form inside the unit. Damage
or malfunction may result if you attempt to use the unit in
this condition. Therefore, before using the unit, you must
allow it to stand for several hours, until the condensation
has completely evaporated.
402
Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any

kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or
deformation.
Repairs and Data

452
Please be aware that all data contained in the units

memory may be lost when the unit is sent for repairs.
Important data should always be backed up on a
computer, or written down on paper (when possible).
During repairs, due care is taken to avoid the loss of data.
However, in certain cases (such as when circuitry related
to memory itself is out of order), we regret that it may not
be possible to restore the data, and Roland assumes no
liability concerning such loss of data.
Additional Precautions
551
Please be aware that the contents of memory can be

irretrievably lost as a result of a malfunction, or the
improper operation of the unit. To protect yourself against
the risk of loosing important data, we recommend that
you periodically save a backup copy of important data
you have stored in the units memory on a computer.
552
Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents

of data that was stored in the units memory or computer
once it has been lost. BOSS/Roland Corporation assumes
no liability concerning such loss of data.
553
Use a reasonable amount of care when using the units

buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks
and connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.
556
When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the

connector itselfnever pull on the cable. This way you
will avoid causing shorts, or damage to the cables
internal elements.
558a
To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the units

volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use
headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about
those around you (especially when it is late at night).
559a
When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box

(including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise,
you will need to use equivalent packaging materials.
IMPORTANT NOTES
561
Use only the specified expression pedal (FV-500H/L,

Roland EV-5; sold separately). By connecting any other
expression pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/or
damage to the unit.
562
Use a cable from Roland to make the connection. If using

some other make of connection cable, please note the
following precautions.
Some connection cables contain resistors. Do not use
cables that incorporate resistors for connecting to this
unit. The use of such cables can cause the sound level
to be extremely low, or impossible to hear. For information on cable specifications, contact the manufacturer of the cable.
Handling CDs
801
Avoid touching or scratching the shiny underside

(encoded surface) of the disc. Damaged or dirty CD-ROM
discs may not be read properly. Keep your discs clean
using a commercially available CD cleaner.
Copyright
851
Unauthorized recording, distribution, sale, lending, public

performance, broadcasting, or the like, in whole or in part,
of a work (musical composition, video, broadcast, public
performance, or the like) whose copyright is held by a
third party is prohibited by law.
853
Do not use this unit for purposes that could infringe on a

copyright held by a third party. We assume no responsibility whatsoever with regard to any infringements of
third-party copyrights arising through your use of this
unit.
..........................................................................................................
204
* Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of

Microsoft Corporation.
206e
* The screen shots in this document are used in compliance

with the guidelines of the Microsoft Corporation.
206j
* Windows is known officially as: Microsoft Windows

operating system.
207
* Apple and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple

Computer, Inc.
209
* Mac OS is a trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.

220
* All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
..........................................................................................................
Contents
USING THE UNIT SAFELY .........................2
IMPORTANT NOTES.................................4
Main Features ........................................9
Names of Things and What They Do .....10
Front Panel ................................................................ 10
Rear Panel.................................................................. 13
Chapter 1 Startup Guide......15
Switching Patches
with the Pedals (Patch Select Mode)......33
Switching Patches in Patch Select Mode ............... 33
Chapter 3
About Tempos and the Guide ....35
About Tempos ......................................36
About Tempos and the Phrase Playback Speed.... 36
About Tempo Sync ............................................................. 36
Making the Connections .......................16

Turning on the Power ...........................18
Play Screen........................................................................... 18
Adjusting the Input Levels ....................................... 19

Adjusting the Output Levels .................................... 19
Recording .............................................20
Playback ..............................................22
Layering
Further Material (Overdubbing) ............24
Eliminating the
Results of Overdubbing (Undo) .............25
Original Tempo.......................................................... 36
How is the Original Tempo
Determined at the Time of Recording?............................ 36
Confirming and Setting the Original Tempo.................. 37
Patch Tempo ............................................................. 38

Confirming and Setting the Patch Tempo....................... 38
Performing While Listening to the

Rhythm SoundAbout the Guide ..........39
Starting and Stopping the Guide............................. 39
Adjusting the
Volume of the Guide Sound (Guide Level) ............. 39
Setting the Guide ...................................................... 39
About the Current Phrase ........................................ 28
Selecting the Guide Sound (Guide Pattern) .................... 39

Selecting the Beat
(Time Signature) for the Guide Sound (Beat) ................. 39
Playing a Count-In
When Recording (Recording Count-In) .......................... 40
Playing a Count-In
for Playback (Playback Count-In)..................................... 40
Adjusting the Volume
of the Guide Sound (Guide Level).................................... 40
Switching the Output
for the Guide Sound (Guide Output Select) ................... 40
Guide Pattern List ............................................................... 41
Selecting the Current Phrase (PHRASE 1/2/3 Pedals) ..... 28
Loop Quantize ......................................42
About Play Modes ................................28
To Use Loop Quantize .............................................. 42
Turning Off the Power ..........................26
Chapter 2
Basic Setup of the RC-50......27
About Phrases and Patches ..................28
What is a Phrase? ..................................................... 28
What is a Patch? ....................................................... 28
Selecting Patches ................................................................. 28
Playing
Multiple Phrases Simultaneously: Multi Mode ....... 28
Playing Back Phrases with
All Lengths and Beginnings Aligned: Loop Sync .......... 28
Switching Phrases as
They Are Played: Single Mode................................. 29
Preparations for Creating Patches.........44
Switching the Play Mode .......................................... 29
Initializing Patches
to Their Basic Settings (Patch Initialize)................. 44
About Recording,
Playback, and Overdubbing .................30
Selecting Patches ..................................................... 44
Naming Patches ........................................................ 45
Recording .................................................................. 30
Setting Up the Patch Tempo, Beat, and Guide....... 45
About Recording Time....................................................... 30
Setting the Patch Tempo .................................................... 45

Setting the Beat.................................................................... 46
Playing the Guide ............................................................... 46
Playback..................................................................... 31
Overdubbing.............................................................. 31
Chapter 4
Creating Patches .................43
Undo/Redo ................................................................. 32
Making the Patch Settings ....................47
Stopping..................................................................... 32
Making the Play Mode Settings ............................... 47
Erasing (Clear)........................................................... 32
Setting Loop Sync ............................................................... 47
Contents
Simultaneously Starting Recording

When Sounds Are Input (Auto Recording) ............. 47
Setting the
Overdubbing Method (Overdubbing Mode)............ 47
Recording-Related Settings ..................................... 48
Recording While Muting the Sounds
Localized at the Center (AUX Center Cancel) ................ 48
Recording with the Tone Adjusted for Use with
Guitar Amps (AUX & MIC Flat Amp Simulate) ............ 48
Switching Between
Stereo and Mono (Recording Mode)................................ 48
Other Patch Settings................................................. 49

Adjusting the Patch Volume ............................................. 49
Switching Phrases at the
End of the Loop (Phrase Change Mode) ......................... 49
Adjusting the Time Used to Fade In (Fade-In Time)..... 49
Adjusting the Time
Used to Fade Out (Fade-Out Time).................................. 49
Playing
Multiple Phrases Simultaneously (Simul-Start) ............. 50
Setting the Output for the
Sounds Being Input (Input Output Select)...................... 50
Setting Tempo
Synchronization with MIDI (MIDI Sync) ........................ 50
Chapter 5
Using the RC-50 in Multi Mode ...57
Examples of the Use of Multi Mode.......58
When Loop Sync is On............................................. 58
When Loop Sync is Off............................................. 59
Pedal Operations in Multi Mode ...........60

Starting Recording and Operations During
Recording .................................................................. 60
Switching Phrases with the PHRASE Pedals.................. 60
Starting Playing and Operations During Playing... 60

Playing Back One Shot Phrases Continuously ............... 60
Adjusting the Patch Tempo............................................... 60
Operations at the
Start of Overdubbing and During Overdubbing..... 60
Setting Phrases to Simul-Start with the Pedal ....... 61

Setting Simul-Start with the Buttons................................ 61
Starting and Stopping Playback of

All Phrases Simultaneously (All Start/All Stop) ..... 61
Recording a New Phrase .......................................... 51
Chapter 6
Using the RC-50 in Single Mode ..63
Copying Phrases from

Other Patches (Phrase Copy) .................................. 51
Examples of the Use of Single Mode .....64
Importing Audio Files from a Computer ................. 51
Pedal Operations in Single Mode..........65
Adjusting the Phrase Volume .................................. 51
Starting Recording and Operations During

Recording .................................................................. 65
Creating Phrases ..................................51
Making the Phrase Settings ..................52

Having Phrases Play Only Once (One Shot) .......... 52
Playing Back in the
Opposite Direction (Reverse)................................... 52
Playing Back While Fading In (Start Mode) ............ 52
Selecting the Method
Use to Stop Phrases (Stop Mode) ........................... 53
Starting Playing and Operations During Playing... 65

Playing Back One Shot Phrases Continuously ............... 65
Adjusting the Patch Tempo............................................... 65
Operations at the
Start of Overdubbing and During Overdubbing..... 65
Adjusting the Volume

of the Phrases (Phrase Level).................................. 53
Adjusting the
Positioning of the Phrases Sound (Pan)................ 53
Chapter 7 Other Functions ...67
Synchronizing Playback of the

Phrase to the Patch Tempo (Tempo Sync) ............. 53
Checking the
Remaining Recording Time ...................67
Switching the Output

for the Phrase Sounds (Output Select) ................... 53
System Settings ....................................68
Saving Patches .....................................54

Saving by Patch Numbers (Patch Write)................. 54
Adjusting the
Screen Brightness (LCD Contrast).......................... 68
Copying Patches (Patch Copy)................................ 54
Limiting the Patches

That Can Be Switched (Patch Extent) ..................... 68
Exchanging Patches (Patch Exchange).................. 55
Setting the Knob Functions (Knob Mode) .............. 68

Adjusting the
Auto Recording Sensitivity (Trigger Level) ............ 69
Overdubbing Immediately
After Recording (REC Pedal Action) ....................... 69
Contents
Using the Same Audio Outputs for All Patches

(Input/Phrase 1, 2, 3/Guide Output Select) ............. 69
Controlling
Other Functions (CC#1/CC#7/CC#80 Functions) ... 77
Protecting Patch Numbers 15 (Preset Protect) .... 69
System Settings and Patch Settings .................................. 77
Pedal Settings ......................................70
Chapter 9
Connecting to Computers.....79
System Settings and Patch Settings....................... 70
Setting the Functions for the

RC-50s Pedals and External Foot Switches
(TEMPO/UNDO/CTL1/CTL2/CTL3/CTL4 Pedal Function) ..... 70
Setting the Functions for the EXP pedal................. 72
EXP Pedal Functions .......................................................... 72
EXP Pedal Min/Max Level................................................ 72
EXP Pedal Min/Max Tempo............................................. 72
Chapter 8 Using MIDI ..........73
Before Using USB .................................80

Compatible OSs ........................................................ 80
Organization of the RC-50s Data ............................ 80
About WAV Files Handled by the RC-50................. 81
Determining the Original Tempo of a
Phrase Created from an Imported WAV File ................. 81
Connecting to the Computer ................................... 81

Notes on Using USB ................................................. 81
What You Can Do with MIDI .................74

Controlling Operations from the RC-50 .................. 74
Outputting Tempo Data and Data for Starting and
Stopping Playback .............................................................. 74
Outputting Program Change Messages .......................... 74
Outputting Control Change Messages ............................ 74
Controlling Operations from External Devices ...... 74

Receiving Tempo Data and Data for Starting and
Stopping Playback .............................................................. 74
Switching Patch Numbers ................................................. 74
Receiving Control Change Messages............................... 74
Making the Settings

for MIDI-Related Functions ....................75
MIDI Receive Channel ....................................................... 75
MIDI Omni Mode ............................................................... 75
MIDI Transmit Channel..................................................... 75
MIDI Sync ............................................................................ 75
MIDI Program Change Out............................................... 75
MIDI Control Change Out................................................. 75
With Windows .....................................82

Backup and Recovery of the RC-50s Data ............ 82
Importing and Exporting WAV Files........................ 83
With Macintosh ....................................84

Backup and Recovery of the RC-50s Data ............ 84
Importing and Exporting WAV Files........................ 85
Troubleshooting ..................87
Error Messages.....................................88
Correspondence Between the
Indicators and Operational Status ........89
Troubleshooting ...................................91
Problems with Sound ............................................... 91
Problems with Operation ......................................... 91
Problems with USB................................................... 92
Controlling Operations from the RC-50 ....76
Appendices .........................93
Synchronizing
Performances on External Devices to the RC-50... 76
About MIDI ...........................................94
To Play Performances on External MIDI Devices

at the Same Tempo as the RC-50s Tempo ...................... 76
To Transmit Start ................................................................ 76
To Transmit Stop................................................................. 76
Restoring the
Factory Settings (Factory Reset) ............95
Transmitting Program Changes .............................. 76
MIDI Implementation Chart ...................99
Transmitting Control Changes ................................ 76
Main Specifications.............................100
Controlling Operations
from an External MIDI Device ...............77
About Sound Library for RC-50 ...........102
Synchronizing
RC-50 Performances to the External Device .......... 77
Index .................................................104
To Play Performances on External MIDI Devices at the

Same Tempo as the RC-50s Tempo (Synchronized Performance) .... 77
To Receive Start................................................................... 77
To Receive Stop ................................................................... 77
Switching Patches .................................................... 77
Parameter List ......................................96
Phrase List............................................................... 103
Main Features
New performance tool, created especially for performers
This unit allows you to control recording, playback, overdubbing, and the composition of ensembles tasks conventionally
performed while recordingbut in real time, right there as you perform, while giving you complete flexibility in controlling
three phrases simultaneously. Its not merely a recording device, and its much more than just an effects processor.
No, this is a whole new type of performance tool: the RC-50 Loop Station.
Create up to 99 patches, with extended phrase recording time of 49 minutes (in mono)
You can save up to 99 patches, each consisting of three phrases, for up to a total of 49 minutes in mono or 24 minutes in
stereo. You can record the various parts of a piece separately to the three phrases, which is convenient for recording or
training; and since it is even possible to record several complete songs, you can also use the RC-50 as a backing tool for live
performances.
Wide variety of stereo inputs

The RC-50 provides three kinds of stereo input jacks, including inputs for musical instruments, an input connector for
phantom-powered microphones, and a stereo input for CD players and other such external devices. Whatever the use, guitar
phrases, vocals and loops, recording and playback, the RC-50 can handle your needs.
You can also adjust the panning (localization) of phrases in playback. Only the RC-50 lets you create such richly expressive
ensemble sounds.
Moreover, the RC-50 comes equipped with a SUB OUT jack, which lets you output your choice of phrases or guide sounds.
Helping you get the most out of your PA in live performances, the RC-50 also provides incredibly flexible recording
possibilities.
Center Cancel/Flat Amp Simulate functions

The RC-50 includes a Center Cancel function, which allows you to record from sources such as CDs and create minus
one data, which mutes only the sounds localized at the center of the sound field. You also get a Flat Amp Simulate
function, which adjusts the tone of audio recorded from an external device or microphone so you can play back these sounds
through a guitar amp.
Undo and Redo while recording and overdubbing

Recording and want to do it over again? An overdub didnt turn out right? No problem, since the RC-50 lets you undo
processes you have just executed and return the data to its previous state. You can also redo undone recording and
overdubbing steps if you decide you want to restore the result. All of this means you can enjoy performances with complete,
unhindered freedom.
Tempo Control provides realtime control of playback speed, enabling synchronization

with other devices
You can control the playback speed of phrases using either tap tempo or with an externally connected expression pedal, in
real time as the phrases are played back. Additionally, you can synchronize phrases, even those that have been recorded at
differing tempos, enabling you to play them all back at the same tempo.
Connecting a recorder or other MIDI device to the RC-50s MIDI connector even allows you to synchronize with other
external MIDI devices. All this gives you a level of communication with other devices and precise tempo control previously
impossible with conventional loop effects.
Rhythm Guide plays a wide variety of patterns with incredibly high-quality sound
The RC-50 offers a Rhythm Guide feature, which in addition to providing a convenient guide during recording, also
functions as a rhythm sound module with fantastic sound. Rivaling even dedicated drum machines, this feature allows you
to select from a variety of beats and a wide range of patterns.
Connect to computers via USB

Connecting the RC-50 to a computer enables you to import (read) and export (write) phrases as stereo .wav files.
You can load and use .wav files that have been precisely edited using your computer, and use your computer for the
convenient management of phrases recorded with the RC-50.
Names of Things and What They Do

Front Panel
fig.00-210
4
6
5
7
20
21
10
22
12
13
11
14
15
16
17
23
1. Display
19 18
24
5. NAME/PATCH Button
Displays a variety of information about the RC-50. The left

display indicates the patch number.
Use this button when naming patches and changing patch

settings.
6. CTL/EXP PEDAL Button
What is a Patch? (p. 28)
Press this to set the functions for the RC-50s pedals and
external pedals.
2. PATCH/VALUE Dial
Used for switching patches and changing the values of settings.
Pedal Settings (p. 70)
3. PARAMETER Button
Press these to select parameters.

*
Jump to major parameters by holding down [

[
] and pressing
] (direction: start end) or by holding down [
pressing [
] and
4. TAP TEMPO Button

Press this button to change patch tempos. You can adjust the
tempo by tapping the button several times; the tempo is set to
match the one you tap out using the button.
You can also use the TEMPO pedal instead of this button to
change tempos.
*
In the Patch Name screen, this button is also pressed to switch the
letter at the cursor position between uppercase and lowercase.
Setting the Patch Tempo (p. 45)
10
7. SYSTEM/USB Button
This button is pressed to change system settings and when
using the RC-50 while connected to a computer.
] (direction: end start). When there are not many
parameters, a jump to the final (or beginning) parameter results.
In the Patch Name screen, pressing this button inserts a blank space at
the cursor position.
In the Patch Name screen, pressing this button deletes the character at
the cursor position and shifts all characters after it to the left.
8. EXIT Button
Use this button to cancel an operation.
9. WRITE Button
Use this button in storing and deleting settings.
10. PLAY MODE Button
14. INPUT LEVEL
Press this to switch the mode used by the RC-50.
AUX Level Knob

This adjusts the level of the input from the AUX jack.
About Play Modes (p. 28)
MIC Level Knob
11. LOOP SYNC On/Off Button
This adjusts the level of the input from the MIC connector.
Press this when changing the Loop Sync settings.
INST Level Knob

This adjusts the level of the input from the INST jacks.
Playing Back Phrases with All Lengths and Beginnings

Aligned: Loop Sync (p. 28)
PEAK Indicator
Setting Loop Sync (p. 47)
This lights when the input level exceeds the standard level.
12. PHRASE EDIT
15. AUTO REC On/Off Button

This switches Auto Recording on and off.
LEVEL Knobs
These adjust the volume level of Phrases 1, 2, and 3.
Simultaneously Starting Recording When Sounds Are Input

(Auto Recording) (p. 47)
PHRASE 1/2/3 Buttons

Press these to change the phrase settings.
16. INPUT MODE Button

Press this when setting the Center Cancel and Flat Amp
Simulate functions.
Creating Phrases (p. 51)
REVERSE Indicators 1/2/3

Light to indicate that a phrase (Phrase 1, 2, or 3) is in reverse
playback.
Recording While Muting the Sounds Localized at the Center

(AUX Center Cancel) (p. 48)
Playing Back in the Opposite Direction (Reverse) (p. 52)
Recording with the Tone Adjusted for Use with Guitar Amps
(AUX & MIC Flat Amp Simulate) (p. 48)
ONE SHOT Indicators 1/2/3

Light to indicate that a phrase (Phrase 1, 2, or 3) is to be played
back only once (One Shot), and are unlit when phrases are
played repeatedly (Loop).
17. LOOP QUANTIZE Indicator

This lights when Loop Quantize is active.
Loop Quantize (p. 42)
Having Phrases Play Only Once (One Shot) (p. 52)
13. GUIDE
18. OVERDUB MODE
LEVEL Knob
OVERDUB MODE Button
This adjusts the volume level of the guide sound. No guide

sound is played when the knob is turned completely to the left
(counterclockwise).
Press this to select the overdubbing mode.
Setting the Overdubbing Method (Overdubbing Mode) (p. 47)
Adjusting the Volume of the Guide Sound (Guide Level) (p. 39)
OVERDUB MODE Indicators
SELECT Button
The indicator for the currently selected overdubbing mode

lights up.
Press this to select the guide sound.
19. MASTER LEVEL Knob

This adjusts the volume of the output from the MAIN OUTPUT
jacks and PHONES jack.
Selecting the Guide Sound (Guide Pattern) (p. 39)
START/STOP Button
You cannot adjust the output volume of the SUB OUTPUT jacks.
Pressed to manually start and stop the guide sound.
Starting and Stopping the Guide (p. 39)
11
20. REC/PLAY/OVERDUB Pedal

This switches between recording, playback, and overdubbing
for the currently selected phrase. With each press of the pedal,
the next function in the sequence is selected, as shown below.
When the phrase has
not been recorded
When using a recorded
phrase
Recording Playback
Overdubbing Playback ...
Playback Overdubbing
Playback ...
Setting the Patch Tempo (p. 45)

Holding down this pedal for at least two seconds switches the
RC-50 to Patch Select mode. Pressing the pedal again switches
the patch and returns the Play screen to the display.
Switching Patches with the Pedals (Patch Select Mode) (p. 33)
TEMPO Indicator
About Recording, Playback, and Overdubbing (p. 30)
You can press the pedal after recording to immediately start
overdubbing.
Overdubbing Immediately After Recording (REC Pedal Action)

(p. 69)
Pressing this pedal in Patch select mode switches the RC-50 to
the next lower patch number.
REC/PLAY/OVERDUB Indicator
This indicates the status of the phrase selected with the
PHRASE 1/2/3 pedals (the current phrase).
Currently recording
Playing back
Overdubbing
Red
Green
Orange
The indicator also indicates a number of other conditions. For

more details, refer to Correspondence Between the Indicators
and Operational Status (p. 89)
21. STOP Pedal

This stops recording, playback, and overdubbing for the
currently selected phrase.
About Recording, Playback, and Overdubbing (p. 30)

Pressing this pedal in Patch Select mode switches the RC-50 to
the next higher patch number.
When the pedal is held down for at least two seconds, the
recording of the currently selected phrase is erased.
22. TEMPO Pedal

Press this to change the patch tempo. You can adjust the tempo
by tapping the pedal several times; the tempo is set to the
interval between each tap.
You can also use the TAP TEMPO button instead of this pedal
to change tempos.
12
This flashes in time with the tempo.
23. UNDO/REDO Pedal

Pressing this once allows you to restore (undo) the recorded or
overdubbed phrase to its state prior to the recording or
overdub.
Pressing the pedal again after an undo has been carried out
allows you to switch the phrase back to the way it was after the
record/overdub (redo).
In Patch Select mode, pressing the pedal returns the Play screen
to the display without switching the patch.
UNDO/REDO Indicator
Lights when a redo is available as an option.
24. PHRASE 1/2/3 Pedals

Press these to select the phrase (Phrase 1, 2, or 3) to be recorded
or played back.
Holding down a PHRASE pedal for at least two seconds in
Multi mode while the phrase is stopped switches on Simul-Start
for that phrase.
A phrase with Simul-Start set to ON will start playing back
simultaneously the instant the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal is
pressed only if the phrase already material recorded to it.
Holding down the pedal again for at least two seconds switches
the Simul-Start setting to OFF again.
In Multi mode, simultaneously pressing the PHRASE 2 pedal
and PHRASE 3 pedal plays back or stops all of the phrases.
PHRASE 1/2/3 Indicators

The left (orange) indicator indicates the currently selected
phrase. The indicator flashes when that phrase is on hold as the
next phrase to be played. The right indicator indicates the status
of the currently selected phrase.
Currently recording
Playing back
Overdubbing
Red
Green
Orange
The indicator flashes when the phrase is the next phrase to be

played or when the phrase is in recording standby (or playback
standby).
The indicator flashes rapidly when Auto Recording (p. 47) is set
to ON.
The indicator also indicates a number of other conditions.

For more details, refer to Correspondence Between the
Indicators and Operational Status (p. 89)
Rear Panel
fig.00-220
1. INPUT R (MONO)/L Jacks

Connect a guitar, synthesizer, or other such instrument here.
2. PHANTOM (Phantom Power) ON/OFF Switch

This switches the phantom power supplied to the MIC
connector on and off.
10
11
12
13
14
15
8. EXP/CTL 3,4 PEDAL Jack

You can connect an optional expression pedal (such as the EV-5)
or foot switch (FS-6 or other) here. You can select the function,
for example switching patches, assigned to the connected pedal
or foot switch.

Be sure to switch the phantom power off unless there is a
condenser microphone requiring phantom power connected to
the MIC connector. Supplying phantom power to dynamic
microphones, audio playback equipment, and other such devices
may damage your equipment. For more on mic specifications,
read the owners manual for the mic you are using.
(RC-50 phantom power: 48 V DC, 10 mA Max)
3. MIC Connector
Connect a microphone here. The RC-50 provides 48-volt
phantom power, allowing you to connect and use phantom
powered condenser mics. You can also use the Flat Amp
Simulator with input from this connector when recording.
9. CTL 1,2 PEDAL Jack

Connect a foot switch (FS-6 or other) here. You can select the
function, for example switching patches, assigned to the
connected switch.
10. USB Connector

You can connect a computer here using a USB cable and
exchange data between the RC-50 and the computer.
Chapter 9 Connecting to Computers (p. 79)
4. AUX Jack
A cable can be connected between here and the headphone jack
on a CD or MD player or other such device.
During recording, you can use the Center Cancel and Flat Amp
Simulator functions with input from this connector.
5. MAIN OUTPUT R (MONO)/L Jacks

Connect a guitar amp, monitor speakers, or other such device
here.
6. PHONES Jack
Connect stereo headphones here.
The sounds output from this jack are the same as those output
from the MAIN OUTPUT jacks.
7. SUB OUTPUT R (MONO)/L Jacks

Connect an amp, mixer, or other such device here. You can
assign the input sounds, guide sound, and sounds of the three
phrases either to the MAIN OUTPUT or the SUB OUTPUT
jacks.
The SUB OUTPUT jacks have no level knob. If you want to

adjust the volume level from these jacks, adjust the patch level
(p. 49).
11. MIDI IN/OUT Connectors

Connect external MIDI devices here to transmit and receive
MIDI data.
Chapter 8 Using MIDI (p. 73)
When connecting the USB cable, remove the cover attached to

the USB connector. Leave the cover attached when not using the
USB connector.
12. POWER Switch

This turns the RC-50s power on and off.
13. DC IN (AC Adaptor) Jack

Connect the included adaptor (ACI or ACB series) here.
14. Cord Hook

Loop the AC adaptor cord around here to prevent the AC
adaptor from being unplugged by accident.
15. Security Slot (
http://www.kensington.com/
13
M E M O
14
Chapter 1
Startup Guide
Chapter 1 Startup Guide
15
Making the Connections

fig.01-010
Stereo
Headphones
Computer
Guitar
Mic
Mixer
Effector
Phones
Jack
CD/MD
Player
Sequencer
AC Adaptor
(ACI or ACB series)
Keyboard
Guitar Amp
Expression Pedal
(Roland EV-5, etc.)
Foot Switch
(FS-6, etc.)
* To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices, always turn down the
volume, and turn off the power on all devices before making any connections.
* Raise the amp volume only after turning on the power to all connected devices.
* Use only the specified EXP pedal (Roland EV-5; sold separately). By connecting any other
EXP pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the unit.
To prevent the inadvertent disruption of power to your unit (should the plug be
pulled out accidentally), and to avoid applying undue stress to the AC adaptor
jack, anchor the power cord using the cord hook, as shown in the illustration.
fig.01-011
16
Making the Connections

Howling could be produced depending on the location of microphones relative to
speakers. This can be remedied by:
Chapter 1
1. Changing the orientation of the microphone(s).

2. Relocating microphone(s) at a greater distance from speakers.
3. Lowering volume levels.
If you are going to output in mono, connect the cable only to the OUTPUT R
(MONO) jack.
This instrument is equipped with balanced (XLR) type jacks. Wiring diagrams for
these jacks are shown below. Make connections after first checking the wiring
diagrams of other equipment you intend to connect.
fig.01-020
If connecting an EXP pedal to the EXP/CTL 3,4 PEDAL jack, set the minimum
volume to the MIN position.
If connecting an FS-6 foot switch (optional; sold separately) to the CTL 1,2 PEDAL
jack or the EXP/CTL 3,4 PEDAL jack, set the MODE switch and POLARITY switch
as shown below.
fig.01-030
If connecting an FS-5U foot switch (optional; sold separately) to the CTL 1,2 PEDAL
jack or the EXP/CTL 3,4 PEDAL jack, set the POLARITY switch as shown below.
fig.01-040
Polarity
Switch
Using the PCS-31 special connection cable (from Roland; sold separately) enables
you to connect two FS-5U switches.
fig.01-050
PCS-31
White
Red
When using an EXP pedal connected to the EXP/CTL 3,4 PEDAL jack, make the
settings described in Pedal Settings (p. 70).
When using a foot switch connected to the CTL 1,2 or EXP/CTL 3,4 jacks, make the
settings described in Pedal Settings (p. 70).
For detailed instructions on

using the RC-50 with a
computer connected to the
USB connector, refer to
Chapter 9 Connecting to
Computers (p. 79).
17
Turning on the Power

Once the connections have been completed (p. 16), turn on power to your various
devices in the order specified. By turning on devices in the wrong order, you risk
causing malfunction and/or damage to speakers and other devices.
Confirm the following before turning on the power.

Are all external devices properly connected?
Is the volume turned down completely on the RC-50 and on amps and other
connected equipment?
Press the POWER switch on the RC-50s rear panel to turn on the power.
fig.01-051
The display switches to the following, and after several seconds the RC-50 is ready
for regular performance.
The screen appearing at this point is called the Play screen.
Keep the power on until the

Play screen is displayed.
fig.01-060d
* The patch selected at the time the power was last turned off is selected.
* This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval (a few seconds) after power
up is required before the unit will operate normally.
Turn on the equipment in the following order:

External effects processors guitar amps (speakers).
Play Screen
The following information is shown in the Play screen:
(Example)
(1)
(4)
(3) (2)
(3) (2)
(3) (2)
fig.01-121
(1)
Patch name (16 characters)
(2)
Recording status of each phrase

o : Recorded
: Not yet recorded
18
(3)
Level meters indicating current volume level (L/R) of each phrase.
(4)
Available recording time remaining (in minutes)
For more information on

phrases and patches, refer to
About Phrases and Patches
(p. 28).
Turning on the Power
Adjusting the Input Levels

Chapter 1
Using the INPUT LEVEL knobs, adjust the input levels so they are appropriate for
the connected instruments.
Adjust the AUX, MIC, or INST knobs depending on the jack to which an instrument
has been connected.
fig.01-070
1
2
Input to the RC-50 at the maximum levels expected during the performance.
Adjust the knob until the PEAK indicator just flickers.

The PEAK indicator lights 6 dB below the level at which the sound starts to distort.
* Setting input levels too high will prevent you from getting the full effect of the sound.
Adjusting the Output Levels

Use this procedure to adjust the output levels.
Adjust the output level from the MAIN OUTPUT jacks with the MASTER LEVEL
knob.
fig.01-080
Set the PHRASE 1/2/3 LEVEL knobs to the center position.

fig.01-090
19
Recording
Now try recording an instrumental performance with the RC-50.
The example here describes the procedure for selecting and recording Patch 6.
fig.01-120
1 2
4,5,7,8
2 3
In the Play screen, rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial until 6 appears in the left
display.
INIT PATCH appears in the right display.
* As Patches 699 are all programmed at the factory with the INIT PATCH (Phrases 13
unrecorded), you could alternatively choose any patch from 799).
fig.01-121d
If all of the phrases are blank, this is indicated by - - - in the lower part of the
display.
For each phrase, o indicates that data has been recorded to that phrase, while
indicates the phrase is blank.
The INIT PATCH is already set to Multi mode (p. 28).
Set the GUIDE LEVEL knob to an appropriate position (other than OFF), then
press the TEMPO pedal or [TAP TEMPO] at a constant rhythm.
The tempo is set to the interval between taps of the button or pedal.
This procedure enables you to record while listening to a rhythm performance
(called the Guide) synchronized to a tempo thats been set beforehand.
For details about the guide, see

Performing While Listening
to the Rhythm SoundAbout
the Guide (p. 39).
You can adjust the volume of the Guide by turning the GUIDE LEVEL knob.
* Turn the GUIDE LEVEL knob to OFF when you want to record without using the guide.
To have recording start automatically at the same time the performance

begins, make sure the [AUTO REC] indicator is lit.
This means that Auto Recording (p. 47) is on.
20
Do not turn off the power

while recording is in progress.
This may result in loss of
recorded material.
Recording
Press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal to start recording.
If Auto Recording is on, the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedals indicator flashes

rapidly in red, and recording starts simultaneously with the beginning of the
performance.
Press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal again to stop recording.

Recording stops, and playback of the recorded sounds begins.
* To stop recording without playing back the sounds, immediately press the STOP pedal.
Sounds recorded in this manner are called phrases.
On the RC-50, you can use three phrases simultaneously.
Continue by recording Phrase 2.
Press the PHRASE 2 pedal to select Phrase 2.

The PHRASE 2 pedals left indicator lights up, while the right indicator flashes in
red.
Press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal to start recording.

Pressing the pedal as Phrase 1 is being played back simultaneously starts recording
of Phrase 2.
The available recording time for Phrase 2 is the same as that of Phrase 1.
After playback of Phrase 1 returns to the very beginning and the process continues
with recording of Phrase 2, the PHRASE 2 pedals right indicator changes from red
to orange, and the recording is layered on top of the previously recorded material.
You can also record each

individual phrase with a
different length.
Playing Back Phrases with All
Lengths and Beginnings
Press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal again to stop recording.

Phrase 1 and Phrase 2 are played back simultaneously.
Using the same process, you can record Phrase 3 by pressing the PHRASE 3 pedal
and then pressing the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal.
If you press both the PHRASE 2 and PHRASE 3 pedals simultaneously, all
playback stops.
* Pressing the STOP pedal stops playback of only the currently selected phrase.
The mode in which you can record a new phrase as you listen to the playback of a
previously recorded phrase or play back three phrases simultaneously is call Multi
mode.
If you want to save a recorded

phrase, use the procedure
described in Saving by Patch
Numbers (Patch Write) (p. 54).
In addition, with the RC-50 you can store up to 99 sets containing the three phrases
and settings for how they are to be performed.
Each one of these sets is called a patch.
You can check the number of the currently selected patch in the left display, and
confirm the patch name in the right display.
For each phrase, the o mark indicates a recorded phrase, while the mark
indicates the phrase is blank.
21
Chapter 1
The REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedals indicator and the indicator on the PHRASE

pedal for the phrase being recorded light in red.
For detailed information about

Auto Recording, refer to
Simultaneously Starting
Recording When Sounds Are
Input (Auto Recording) (p.
47).
Playback
fig.01-100
In the Play screen, rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to select Patch 1,

BIG ROCK.
fig.01-101d
Press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal.

Phrase 1 is played back.
Press the PHRASE 2 pedal.

Phrase 1 stops playing, and the playback of Phrase 2 begins.
Press the PHRASE 3 pedal.

Phrase 2 stops playing, and the playback of Phrase 3 begins.
Press the STOP pedal.

Phrase 3 stops playing.
In this manner, the RC-50 allows you to play back phrases as you switch from one to
the next.
This mode is referred to as Single mode.
22

during playback. This may
result in loss of recorded
material.
Playback
The RC-50 is shipped from the factory with demo patches saved to patch numbers 15.
Patch Name
Mode
BIG ROCK
Single
FUNKY BLUES
SHUFFLE GROOVE
ROCK BALLAD
COOL GROOVE
Single
Single
Multi
Multi
Chapter 1
No.
Phrase
1
Chord E Loop
Chord A Loop
Chord B Loop
Blues Progression 12-Measure Pattern A
Blues Progression 12-Measure Pattern B
Ending
Chord A Loop
Chord D Loop
Chord E D Repeating Loop
16-Measure Loop
Blank
Blank
Drum Loop
Bass Loop
Blank
These patches are protected with a feature (Preset Protect) that prevents accidental deletion or erasure of data.
To erase the demo patches and save patches you have created to patch numbers 15, switch Preset Protect to OFF.
Protecting Patch Numbers 15 (Preset Protect) (p. 69)
23
Layering Further Material (Overdubbing)

With the RC-50, you can also layer further recordings (overdub) onto previously
recorded phrases.
fig.01-121
3,4,5
Prepared a prerecorded phrase.

Record the phrases using the procedures described in Recording (p. 20), or have
ready a patch selected in Playback (p. 22).
2
3
4
Press the PHRASE pedal for the phrase you want to overdub.
Press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal to play back the phrase.
Press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal once again when you reach the point at
which you want to start overdubbing.
The performance from that point on will continue to be overdubbed until the next
time you press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal.
To finish overdubbing and return to playback mode, press the REC/PLAY/

OVERDUB pedal once again.
The new performance is overdubbed onto the originally recorded performance.
The next section contains a description of the procedure to eliminate (undo) the
results of the overdubbing.
24

while overdubbing is in
progress. This may result in
loss of recorded material.
Eliminating the Results of Overdubbing (Undo)

Chapter 1
There may be times during recording/overdubbing when you make a mistake while
performing or otherwise want to do the overdub over again. In such situations, you
can use Undo to restore the recording to the state it was in before recording/
overdubbing took place.
Try using the Undo function on the phrase you overdubbed in Layering Further
Material (Overdubbing).
fig.01-122
1,2
Press the UNDO/REDO pedal.

The performance played in the overdub disappears, and the phrase returns to the
previous state prior to overdubbing.
You can also use the following procedure to return the phrase to the state after
overdubbing (redo).
Press the UNDO/REDO pedal (redo).

The results of the overdubbing, playback of which had stopped with the undo, are
restored, with the phrase again returned to its state following the overdubbing.

while undo/redo is in
progress. This may result in
loss of recorded material.
To end the performance, press the STOP pedal.

In this manner, even if you make a mistake during overdubbing, you can scrap the
results and do it over again, yet still recover the material if you have discarded it by
mistake.
25
Turning Off the Power

1
Before turning off the power, confirm the following.

Is the volume turned down completely on the RC-50 and on amps and other
connected equipment?
2
3
26
Turn off the power on any effects processor, guitar amp (speakers), or other
device connected to the RC-50.
Turn off the power to the RC-50.
Chapter 2
Basic Setup of the RC-50
Chapter 2 Basic Setup of the RC-50
27
About Phrases and Patches

fig.02-010
Patch #99
Phrase 1
Patch #3
Phrase 2
Patch #2
Phrase 1
Patch #1
Phrase 3
Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Phrase 3
Phrase 2
Phrase 3
Phrase 3
What is a Phrase?
A performance using Instruments or other input that is recorded and
saved with the RC-50 is called a phrase.
Phrases contain recorded audio that is stored together with other
information, such as the method used for playing back and recording.
What is a Patch?
With the RC-50, you can switch among three phrases while playing
them back, or even play the three of them simultaneously.
The RC-50 stores up to 99 different sets of settings that determine
how these three phrases are performed.
Each such set of settings is called a patch.
Selecting Patches
To select a patch, turn the PATCH/VALUE dial in the Play screen.
Switching patches during recording, playback, or overdubbing

begins recording or playback of the patch to which you have
switched.
About Play Modes

The RC-50 features two types of Play modes, Multi mode and
Single mode, which can used for different purposes. The Play
mode used can be set individually for each patch.
Playing Multiple Phrases

Simultaneously: Multi Mode
Multi mode allows you to play three phrases at the same time.
You can, for example, save the performances of the bass, drum, and
guitar parts each as separate phrases, and by saving the
performance of a single song as one patch, you can then play back
the parts simultaneously and stop or mute any desired part during
the song as it is playing.
fig.02-020
Start of Performance
Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Three Phrases
Play Simultaneously
Phrase 3
In Multi mode, when recording of one phrase starts, playback of the
other phrases starts at the same time (Simul-Start: p. 50, All Start: p.
61); you can also have all of the phrases stop at the same time (All
Stop: p. 61).
Playing Back Phrases with All Lengths and

Beginnings Aligned: Loop Sync
Although you can record performances of differing lengths to each
of the phrases, in Multi mode, you can have multiple phrases play
back repeatedly over the same length of time.
This is called Loop Sync.
Playback repeats with measure beginnings aligned at all times,
allowing you, for example, to record various parts (such as drums
and bass) to separate phrases, then perform them as an ensemble.
Patches can be switched with the RC-50s pedals.
Switching Patches with the Pedals (Patch Select Mode)

(p. 33)
Patches can be switched with external pedals.
Setting the Functions for the RC-50s Pedals and External

Foot Switches (TEMPO/UNDO/CTL1/CTL2/CTL3/CTL4
Pedal Function) (p. 70)
About the Current Phrase

In order to record a phrase, you need to select the particular phrase
you want to work with.
This selected phrase is called the current phrase.
All recording tasks performed with the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal
affect the current phrase.
In addition, the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal indicator shows the
status recording, playing back, or overdubbing for the current phrase.
Selecting the Current Phrase

(PHRASE 1/2/3 Pedals)
To select a phrase as the current phrase, press the PHRASE pedal for
the desired phrase (Phrase 1, 2 or 3).
The left (orange) indicator on the PHRASE pedal for the selected
phrase will light.
28
When Loop Sync is Off

fig.02-030
Beginning of Loop
Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Phrase 3
The loop repeats with the length of each phrase unchanged
When Loop Sync is On

fig.02-031
Beginning of Loop
Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Phrase 3
The loop repeats with each phrase aligned according to
the length of the longest phrase
About Play Modes
Note about the start of playback of a

phrase while another phrase is playing
The loop length is the length of the phrase with the longest
playback time among the recorded phrases being played.
You can use this in situations such as when repeating playback
simultaneously of phrases in which the tempo is not a factor.
fig.02-043
Loop played at this length
fig.02-040
Phrase 1
Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Phrase 2
Playback starts from point within phrase
Chapter 2
Phrase beginnings are always in sync. Thus, if while a phrase is

already playing you start playback of another phrase, the other
phrase starts from the current point in the phrase within the loop.
When There Are No Recorded Phrases With

Tempo Sync Switched On
Phrase 3
Tempo Sync: Off

Tempo Sync: Off
Tempo Sync: Off

Playback always starts from the beginning of the phrase.
fig.02-041
Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Even if procedures such as Clear or Undo (p. 32) are used while
a performance is in progress to erase the phrase with the
longest playback time, the loop length remains unchanged
until all of the phrases have stopped playing.
When the Phrase is Set to ONE SHOT (p. 52)

Playback always starts from
beginning of phrase
About the Loop Time

When Loop Sync is enabled, the length of the repeated playback (the
loop time) is the playback time of the phrase with the longest
playback time of those recorded phrases playing when Tempo Sync
is on. In other words, the loop time is the same as the playback time
of the longest of a group of phrases when played at the same tempo.
Tempo Sync
Tempo Sync is a function that plays back all patches at a
common performance tempo (the patch tempo). Even when you
have phrases that were recorded at different tempos, when
Tempo Sync is set to ON, the phrases are played at the same
tempo. For more detailed information, refer to About Tempo
Sync (p. 36).
ONE SHOT phrases cannot be used with loop playback. These

phrases are played back only when the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB
pedal is pressed.
Switching Phrases as They

Are Played: Single Mode
In Single mode, you can switch among the three phrases as you play
back the material.
For example, you can record three phrases with Melody A, Melody
B, and the bridge, then play these as a single song by switching them
in sequence.
You can set the RC-50 so that when phrases are switched during
playback, you can switch to the next phrase the instant you press the
PHRASE pedal or after the phrase currently playing is done (Phrase
Change Mode: p. 49).
fig.02-050
Start of Performance
When One or More Recorded Phrases Have

Tempo Sync Switched Off
If you are using a recorded phrase that exceeds the loop time
described above with Tempo Sync switched off, then at the end of
the loop, the phrase starts playing back from the beginning without
the remaining portion of that phrase being played.
You can play back effect sounds and other material the speed of
which, because of the songs tempo, you dont want to change,
regardless of the length of the effect sound.
fig.02-042
Loop played at this length

Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Phrase 3
Tempo Sync: Off
Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Phrase 3
Switching among
the three phrases
as they play
Switching the Play Mode

Each time you press the PLAY MODE button, it alternately switches
the Play mode to Single or Multi mode.
The indicator lights when Multi mode is active; the indicator is off in
Single mode.
Tempo Sync: On
Tempo Sync: Off
You cannot switch Play modes while playback, recording, or

overdubbing is in progress.
29
About Recording, Playback, and Overdubbing

On the RC-50, you will primarily use the three basic operations of recording, playback, and overdubbing (layered recording) for performances.
When you press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal in the Play screen, the RC-50 switches among the following basic operations depending on the
status of the current phrase.
When the Current Phrase is Blank

fig.02-060
When the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB

pedal is pressed
Operation on the current phrase
OverRecording Playback dubbing Playback
Overdubbing
When material is recorded to the current phrase

fig.02-061
When the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB

pedal is pressed
Operation on the current phrase
OverOverPlayback dubbing Playback dubbing
Playback
You can also start overdubbing immediately after recording. For more details, refer to Overdubbing Immediately After Recording (REC
Pedal Action) (p. 69).
*
Pressing the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal during playback of a phrase set to ONE SHOT (p. 52) starts playback of the phrase without starting
overdubbing.
Recording
If the current phrase is blank, you can record to the phrase by
pressing the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal in the Play screen.
Number of Phrases That Can Be

Recorded Simultaneously
The only phrase that can be recorded to is the current phrase. If you
record to a phrase other than the current phrase, the current phrase
is switched and recording is conducted on the next phrase.
You cannot simultaneously record to multiple phrases.
About Tempos During Recording

Recording is carried out at the tempo in effect immediately
preceding the recording.
Changing the tempo while recording is in progress may cause

sounds to play in unintended ways.
To Confirm That the RC-50 is Currently Recording

When the RC-50 is recording, the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal
indicator and the red indicator on the PHRASE pedal corresponding
to the current phrase are lit.
To Confirm Whether or Not A

Phrase Contains a Recording
Phrases with material recorded to them are indicated by a o mark
in the respective phrases field in the display.
When a phrase is blank, this is indicated by a mark.
To Confirm the Available Recording Time

While recording is in progress, the remaining time available for
recording is indicated in the display in minutes. When less than one
minute remains, the time is then indicated in seconds.
Recording stops automatically when the remaining recording

time runs out.
30
About Recording Time

The RC-50s Recording mode (p. 48) can be switched to record in
stereo or mono. When all of the RC-50s patches are blank, the total
recording time available is as shown below.
Recording Mode
STEREO
MONO
Recording Time
Approx. 24 minutes
Approx. 49 minutes
The times listed above take into account the amount of memory
needed for the actual recording combined with the memory
required for the RC-50s operations (e.g., Undo/Redo).
The minimum length of time required for a phrase is
approximately 1.5 seconds. If the phrase youve record is
shorter than that, the length of the phrase will be adjusted
automatically, and then recording will stop.
To Switch Recording-Related Operations

You can make the following settings with the RC-50 to switch
among the different types of recording tasks (settings are common to
both Single mode and Multi mode).
Simultaneously starting recording when sounds are input

Auto Recording (p. 47)
Switching between stereo and mono

Recording Mode (p. 48)
Recording while muting the sounds localized at the center

AUX Center Cancel (p. 48)
Recording with the tone adjusted for use with guitar amps
AUX & MIC Flat Amp Simulate (p. 48)
The following operations are also possible in Multi Mode.
Starting playback of a different phrase at the same time

recording of the current phrase starts
Playing Multiple Phrases Simultaneously (Simul-Start)
(p. 50)
Starting playback of all phrases at the same time recording of

the current phrase starts
All Start/All Stop (p. 61)
Playback
If the current phrase has material recorded to it, pressing the REC/
PLAY/OVERDUB pedal in the Play screen starts playback of the
phrase.
If the current phrase has material recorded to it, you can layer
additional recordings onto the phrase as it plays back by pressing
the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal while playback is in progress.
This is called overdubbing.
Repeatedly overdubbing over the length of the phrase allows you to
create dense, thicker phrases each time you layer a newly recorded
phrase.
In Multi mode, you can play back all three phrases simultaneously.
In Single mode, only the current phrase is played back.
To Confirm That the RC-50 is

Currently Playing Back
During playback, the green indicator on each PHRASE pedal lights.
In addition, the green indicator on the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB
pedal lights when the current phrase is being played back.
To Switch Playback-Related Operations

You can make the following settings with the RC-50 to switch among
the different types of playback tasks (settings are common to both
Single mode and Multi mode).
Playing back while fading in

Start Mode (p. 52)
You cannot overdub when the phrase is set to ONE SHOT (p.
52).

Overdubbed Simultaneously
Only the current phrase can be overdubbed. If you overdub on a
phrase other than the current phrase, the current phrase is switched
and overdubbing is conducted on the next phrase.
You cannot simultaneously overdub to multiple phrases.
About Tempos During Overdubbing

Overdubbing is carried out at the tempo in effect immediately
preceding the overdubbing.
Adjusting the fade-in speed

Fade-Out Time/Fade-In Time (p. 49)
Adjusting the phrase panning

Pan (p. 53)
Having phrases play only once

One Shot (p. 52)
Playing back in the opposite direction

Reverse (p. 52)
Synchronizing playback of the phrase to the patch tempo

Tempo Sync (p. 53)
During overdubbing, the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal indicator

and the orange indicator on the PHRASE pedal corresponding to the
current phrase are lit.
Switching the output for the phrase sounds

Output Select (p. 53)
Phrase Length That Can Be Overdubbed
Changing the tempo while overdubbing is in progress may

cause sounds to play in unintended ways.
To Confirm That the RC-50 is Currently

Overdubbing
The phrase length that you can overdub is the same as the length of
whatever phrase you are overdubbing.
Simultaneously starting playback of desired phrases

Playing Multiple Phrases Simultaneously (Simul-Start)
(p. 50)
When Loop Sync is on while the RC-50 is in Multi mode,

overdubbing of a length equivalent to that of the phrase having
the longest playback time among those already recorded can be
carried out.
Starting and stopping playback of all phrases simultaneously

To Switch Overdubbing-Related Operations

the different types of overdubbing tasks (settings are common to
both Single mode and Multi mode).
Recording while muting the sounds localized at the center

AUX Center Cancel (p. 48)
Recording with the tone adjusted for use with guitar amps
AUX & MIC Flat Amp Simulator (p. 48)
31
Chapter 2

Played Back Simultaneously
Overdubbing
In addition, pressing [OVERDUB MODE] enables the Overdubbing

mode setting, allowing you to switch the overdubbing method.
The Overdubbing mode setting provides the three following
overdubbing methods from which to choose.
OVERDUB
REPLACE
MOMENTARY
PUNCH-IN
Sounds are layered onto prerecorded phrases.

This is the method normally used.
Previously recorded phrases are erased as they
are overwritten by newly recorded phrases.
Overwriting takes places while the previously
recorded phrases are played back, providing a
kind of delay effect like that from an effects processor.
are overwritten by newly recorded phrases. This
differs from REPLACE in that overwriting takes
place only while the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB
pedal is held down.
For more detailed instructions on switching the Overdubbing

mode, refer to Setting the Overdubbing Method (Overdubbing
Mode) (p. 47).
Undo/Redo
There may be times when you make a mistake in recording or
overdubbing and would like to undo the step you just took. In such
situations, you can eliminate the results of the immediately
preceding recording or overdubbing. This is called undo.
You can also recover results you have undone and return the data to
its state with that recording or overdubbing step done over again.
This is called redo.
Types of Operations You Can Undo/Redo

Undo and Redo affect the immediately preceding recording or
overdubbing step.
Number of Undos/Redos
Undo can be used only to undo the single immediately preceding
recording or overdubbing step taken.
Redo only reverses the immediately preceding undo.
To Confirm Whether or Not You Can

Undo or Redo
You can undo immediately after recording or overdubbing or after a
redo.
After an undo, the red UNDO/REDO indicator lights, indicating
that a redo is possible.
With some recordings, changed patch tempos (p. 38) and

original tempos (p. 36) cannot be restored after carrying out
Undo and Redo.
How is the Original Tempo Determined at the Time of
Recording? (p. 36)
If any phrase is cleared after an undo, you will no longer be able
to perform a redo.
You cannot undo or redo steps after saving the patch.
32
Stopping
Pressing the STOP pedal during recording, playback, or
overdubbing stops the respective operation.
During overdubbing, the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal indicator
and the orange indicator on the PHRASE pedal corresponding to the
current phrase are lit.
To Switch Stop-Related Operations

the different types of tasks related to stopping operations (settings
are common to both Single mode and Multi mode).
Stopping with a fade-out or at the very end of the phrase

Stop Mode (p. 53)
Adjusting the fade-out speed

Fade-Out Time/Fade-In Time (p. 49)
Simultaneously stopping all phrases

Erasing (Clear)
After pressing a PHRASE pedal to select a phrase, if you then hold
down the STOP pedal for two seconds or longer, the recording of the
phrase selected as the current phrase is erased (cleared).
Although you can use Undo to undo the results of the immediately
preceding recording or overdubbing, if you wish to erase the
finalized recording of a phrase, which you cannot accomplish with
Undo, then execute Clear to erase the phrase.
Using an external foot switch, you can clear phrases with just
one press of the pedal, or clear Phrases 1, 2, and 3 individually.
You cannot clear phrases while recording or overdubbing is in

progress.
Executing Clear while playing back a phrase immediately stops
and erases the phrase.
Switching Patches with the Pedals (Patch Select Mode)

You can switch patches not only by rotating the PATCH/VALUE
dial in the Play screen, but also with the RC-50s pedals.
The mode in which you can switch patches with the RC-50s pedals
is called Patch Select mode.
Switching Patches in Patch

Select Mode
While performing:
When Phrase Change mode (p. 49) is set to IMMEDIATE, the
Play screen returns to the display, and the RC-50 immediately
switches to the next patch.
Simultaneously, the phrase assigned to the pressed PHRASE
pedal becomes the current phrase.
When Phrase Change mode is set to LOOP END, the Play
screen returns to the display, and the patch is placed on hold for
switching.
The [TAP TEMPO] indicator flashes in time with the patch
tempo of the patch to which you are switching.
fig.02-070
When playback of the current phrase is finished, the RC-50

switches to the patch programmed to play next.
While stopped:
The Play screen returns to the display, and the RC-50
immediately switches to the next patch.
2
1.
1,3-1 3-3
3-2
In the Play screen, hold down the TEMPO pedal for at least
two seconds.
The patch number flashes in the left display, indicating that the
RC-50 has switched to Patch Select mode.

3-3. To cancel Patch Select and return to the Play screen, press the
UNDO/REDO pedal once.
The RC-50 quits Patch Select mode and the Play screen returns
to the display.
fig.02-080d
2.
Press the STOP pedal or REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal to

switch the patch number up or down.
The left (orange) indicators on the pedals flash, indicating the
current phrase of the patches to which you switch.
3.
Select one of the following operations.
3-1. After selecting as Patch number, press the TEMPO pedal one
time to switch patches.
While performing:
When Phrase Change mode (p. 49) is set to IMMEDIATE, the
Play screen returns to the display, and the RC-50 immediately
switches to the next patch.
When Phrase Change mode is set to LOOP END, the Play
screen returns to the display, and the patch is put on hold,
programmed to wait for switching.
The [TAP TEMPO] indicator flashes in time with the patch
tempo of the patch to which you are switching.
When playback of the current phrase is finished, the RC-50
switches to the patch programmed to play next.
While stopped:
The Play screen returns to the display, and the RC-50
immediately switches to the next patch.
33
Chapter 2
You cannot stop current operations (recording, playback, and

overdubbing) in Patch Select mode.
3-2. To change the current phrase in the next patch, press a

PHRASE pedal one time.
M E M O
34
Chapter 3
About Tempos and the Guide
Chapter 3 About Tempos and the Guide
35
About Tempos
This section provides information about tempos when using the RC50.
About Tempos and the

Phrase Playback Speed
When you perform on the RC-50, the playback speed is determined
according to one of two tempo types, the original tempos that are
saved with each of the three separate phrases, and the patch tempos
saved with patches.
Examples of Original and Patch Tempos

fig.03-009
Original Tempo
The tempo used when a phrase is recorded is saved to the phrase.
This is called the original tempo.
How is the Original Tempo Determined

at the Time of Recording?
The original tempo is set automatically when a phrase is recorded.
This setting is made depending on the RC-50s status as shown below.
Single Mode
Patch
When the guide is on (when Guide Level is not set to OFF):
Patch Tempo: 120

Phrase 1
Original Tempo: 100

Tempo Sync: ON
Phrase 2
Original Tempo: 120

Tempo Sync: ON
Phrase 3
Original Tempo: 80
Tempo Sync: OFF
About Tempo Sync

The RC-50s performances are played using the patch tempo, but
you can choose whether to use the patch tempo or an original tempo
to play back each phrase. This is called Tempo Sync.
When Tempo Sync is switched on, the playback speed is increased or
decreased to match the tempo to the patch tempo.
When Tempo Sync is off, the phrases playback speed does not
change.
For example, in the example above, each phrase is played back at the
following tempos.
Phrase
Performance
Playback Speed
Tempo
120
120
80
The playback speed is increased to synchronize with the patch tempo.

The original tempo and patch tempo are
the same, so the phrases playback speed
is unchanged.
Tempo Sync is switched off, so the
phrases playback speed is unchanged.
In this way, switching Tempo sync allows you to perform at the

same tempo used for playback, even if the tempos for each phrase
when recorded (the original tempo) are different.
When the original tempo and the patch tempo are greatly
different, the tone quality of the phrase might decrease by using
Tempo Sync.
36
The original tempo of the newly recorded phrase is set to the same
tempo as the patch tempo.
At this time, the Loop Quantize indicator lights.
When the guide is set to OFF:

The original tempo of the newly recorded phrase is automatically
calculated from the recorded phrases length (at this time, the Loop
Quantize indicator is off).
In addition, when Tempo Sync is set to ON in the recorded phrase,
the patch tempo is also automatically set to the same value as the
phrases tempo.
When the tempo is calculated automatically from the length of the
phrase, calculation of the tempo is premised on recording measures
with 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 (or other power of two) guide beats.
The initial status is with a beat (time signature) of 4/4.
When recording phrases using a different beat, set the time signature
prior to recording (p. 39).
The tempo that exceeds maximum tempo (250 bpm) of RC-50

cannot be automatically calculated.
When Synchronized Performance (p. 77) is used to synchronize

the RC-50 to an external MIDI devices tempo, the phrase's
original tempo is set to the patch tempo, just as when the guide
is switched on.
Setting Tempo Synchronization with MIDI (MIDI Sync)
(p. 50)
About Tempos
Multi Mode
Confirming and Setting the Original Tempo
When Loop Sync is set to OFF:

As in Single Mode, determination of the original tempo changes
according to whether the guide is on or off.
If, however, in addition to the phrase you are about to record, a
recorded phrase meeting both of the conditions below is being
played back, the original tempo is set to the same tempo as that of
the phrase being played back (the patch tempo).
You can confirm and set the original tempo with the following
procedure.
fig.03-030
2,3-1 3-1 3-2 4
Tempo Sync is ON
Chapter 3
One Shot (p. 52) is set to LOOP

fig.03-021
Patch Tempo: 120

Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Newly
Recorded
Phrase
Original Tempo: 84
Tempo Sync: ON
1.
Press [PHRASE] to select the phrase whose original tempo

you want to confirm or set.
2.
Press PARAMETER [
][
] until Original Tempo is
displayed.
The phrases original tempo is indicated.
Original Tempo: 147

Tempo Sync: OFF
Original Tempo: 120
Tempo Sync: OFF
fig.03-040d
When Loop Sync is set to ON:

As in Single Mode, determination of the original tempo changes
according to whether the guide is on or off.
If, however, in addition to the phrase you are about to record, there
is a recorded phrase with One Shot set to LOOP, the original tempo
is set to the same tempo as the recorded phrases original tempo.
fig.03-020
Patch Tempo: 120

Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Newly
Recorded
Phrase
Original Tempo: 84
Tempo Sync: ON
When changing the original tempo, use the following

procedure.
3-1. Press PARAMETER [

][
] to move the cursor to the
digit you want to change, then rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to
adjust the original tempo.
Available Settings: 40.0250.0
3-2. Press [TAP TEMPO] several times.
The tempo is set to the interval between taps of the button.
Original Tempo: 147

Tempo Sync: OFF
Original Tempo: 120
Tempo Sync: OFF
3.
Same setting
as patch tempo
4.
When you have finished confirming or setting the value, press

[EXIT] to return to the Play screen.
When the RC-50 is connected to an external MIDI device with a

MIDI cable and set so that it runs synchronized to the external
MIDI devices tempo, the patch tempo is switched to the tempo
of the external MIDI device.
Setting Tempo Synchronization with MIDI (MIDI Sync) (p. 50)
All of the phrases play back at the same tempo

Even if each phrase has been recorded at a different tempo, by
changing the phrases playback speed to synchronize them to the
patch tempo.
Synchronizing Playback of the Phrase to the Patch Tempo

(Tempo Sync) (p. 53)
37
About Tempos
Patch Tempo
From this point, the tempo used when recording a phrase or playing
a patch will be referred to as the patch tempo.
Moreover, the patch tempo is also used as the guide (p. 39) tempo.
Confirming and Setting the Patch Tempo

You can confirm and set the patch tempo with the following
procedure.
fig.03-050
2-1 2-1 1,2-2
1.
Press [TAP TEMPO] to display Patch:Tempo.

The tempo is indicated.
fig.03-060d
2.
When changing the patch tempo, use the following procedure.
2-1. Press PARAMETER [

][
digit you want to change, then rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to
adjust the patch tempo.
2-2. Press [TAP TEMPO] several times.
The tempo is set to the interval between taps of the button.
To Set the Patch Tempo using the

TEMPO Pedal
When you press the [TEMPO] pedal several times, the tempo is then
set to the interval between taps of the pedal.
You cannot adjust the tempo with the TEMPO pedal if the
pedals function has been changed.

When Synchronized Performance is used to synchronize the

RC-50 to an external MIDI devices tempo, you cannot change
the patch tempo with the PATCH/VALUE dial, [TAP TEMPO],
or the TEMPO pedal.
38
Performing While Listening to the Rhythm SoundAbout the Guide

When recording phrases with the RC-50, it can convenient to use the
guide, which can be used like a metronome.
The guide features numerous pre-programmed rhythm sounds with
drums and percussion in a variety of time signatures, so you can use
it not just as a metronome but also as a simple rhythm machine to
provide backing rhythm.
Additionally, by setting the tempo and guide beat before recording
and then recording in time with the guide, you can record looped
phrases at the correct length (Loop Quantize; p. 42).
The following provides a description of guide settings.
Setting the Guide

Use the following procedure to change the guide settings.
fig.03-070
3 5
Starting and Stopping the

Guide
The guide sound starts automatically when you begin recording or
playback of a phrase.
The guide automatically stops when recording, playback, or
overdubbing of all phrases (13) is finished.
You can also press [GUIDE START/STOP] to manually start the
guide when recording or playback is stopped, or stop the guide
when the performance is in progress.
1.
Press [GUIDE SELECT] to display the guide settings screen.
2.
Press PARAMETER [
you want to set.
You can adjust the volume level of the guide sound with the GUIDE
LEVEL knob.
No guide sound is played when the GUIDE LEVEL knob is turned
completely to the left (set to OFF).
] to display the parameter
fig.03-080d
(Example)
3.
Rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to change the value of the

setting.
4.
Repeat Steps 23 as needed.
5.
When finished making the settings, press [EXIT] to return to

the Play screen.
If there is no need to start automatically, set the Guide Level

(next section) to OFF.
Adjusting the Volume of the

Guide Sound (Guide Level)
][
Selecting the Guide Sound (Guide Pattern)

You can select the guides performance pattern from a choice of rock
drums, Latin percussion, and other patterns.
fig.03-091d
Guide Pattern List (p. 41)
Selecting the Beat (Time Signature)

for the Guide Sound (Beat)
This selects the guide sound beat.
fig.03-090d
Available Settings:
2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 7/4, 5/8, 6/8, 7/8, 8/8, 9/8, 10/8, 11/8,
12/8, 13/8, 14/8, 15/8
You cannot change a phrases beat after the phrase is recorded.

Be sure to set this before recording.
39
Chapter 3
Guide settings are saved to each patch individually.
Playing a Count-In When

Recording (Recording Count-In)
Switching the Output for the Guide

Sound (Guide Output Select)
You can have recording start after a count-in sound is played.
You can switch the jacks to which the guide sound is output.
fig.03-110d
fig.03-100d
Available Settings Description

No count-in is played.
OFF
Recording starts after a one-measure count-in is
1MEAS
played.
No count-in sound plays when recording is started with a MIDI

Start message received from an external MIDI device.
Playing a Count-In for Playback

(Playback Count-In)
You can have Playback start after a count-in sound is played.
fig.03-111d

No count-in is played.
OFF
Playback starts after a one-measure count-in is
1MEAS
played.
No count-in sound plays when the playback is started with a

MIDI Start message received from an external MIDI device.
No count-in sound plays when the playback is started with the
RC-50 or an external foot switch with the CC# function set to
PHRASE 1/2/3 PLY/STP or PHRASE 1/2/3 PLAY.
Adjusting the Volume of the Guide

Sound (Guide Level)
*
You can also change this value with the GUIDE LEVEL knob.
fig.03-120d
Available Settings: OFF, 2200
40

Output from the MAIN OUTPUT and PHONES
MAIN
jacks.
Output from the SUB OUTPUT jacks.
The sound is not output from the MAIN OUTSUB
PUT and PHONES jacks.
Output from the MAIN and SUB OUTPUT jacks
MAIN+SUB
and the PHONES jack.
You can select the method used to set the guide sound output;
either with the output set as shown above in each individual
patch, or with the system settings, whereby the same output
destination is selected for all patches.
Using the Same Audio Outputs for All Patches (Input/
Phrase 1, 2, 3/Guide Output Select) (p. 69)
Guide Pattern List

fig.03-100-Guide
Beat
2/4
Beat
6/4
Simple Beat 18
Groove Beat 12
Shuffle
Hi-Hat
Kick & Hi-Hat 13
Rim & Hi-Hat 14
Conga & Hi-Hat 12
Simple Beat 17
Groove Beat 12
Shuffle
Swing 12
Bossa Feel
Simple Beat 15
Downbeat Snare
4/4
5/4
Rock 15
Latin Rock 12
Groove Beat 15
Shuffle 16
1/2 Shuffle 12
16th Shuffle 12
Shuffle Reggae
Pop 13
Funk 13
Fusion 13
Swing
Bossa 13
Samba 13
Clave 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
R&B 12
Hi-Hat
Kick & Hi-Hat 12
Conga & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
Pattern
Simple Beat 17
Groove Beat 12
Shuffle
Swing 12
Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
7/4
8/8
9/8
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
5/8
Simple Beat 110

Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Hi-Hat 13
Kick & Hi-Hat
Rim & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
6/8
Simple Beat 110

Swing 12
Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
7/8
Simple Beat 19
Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat 12
Rim & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
Simple Beat 14
Groove Beat 13
Swing 12
Hi-Hat 14
Kick & Hi-Hat 14
Rim & Hi-Hat
Conga & Hi-Hat 12
Beat
Pattern
Simple Beat 16
Groove Beat 13
Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat 12
Rim & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
Simple Beat 16
Groove Beat 13
Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Beat
13/8
14/8
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat 12
Rim & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
10/8
Simple Beat 16
Groove Beat 13
Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat 12
Rim & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
11/8
Simple Beat 16
Groove Beat 13
Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat 12
Rim & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
12/8
Simple Beat 16
Groove Beat 13
Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat 12
Rim & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
Pattern
Simple Beat 16
Groove Beat 13
Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat 12
Rim & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
Chapter 3
3/4
Pattern
Simple Beat 14
Shuffle 12
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat 15
Rim & Hi-Hat 14
Conga & Hi-Hat 13
Simple Beat 16
Groove Beat 13
Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat 12
Rim & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
15/8
Simple Beat 16
Groove Beat 13
Bossa Feel
Samba Feel 12
909 Beat
909 Clap
Hi-Hat 12
Kick & Hi-Hat 12
Rim & Hi-Hat
Conga & Maracas
41
Loop Quantize
The function that enables you to adjust the length of the phrase you
are going to record automatically is called Loop Quantize.
The timing at which you stop recording a phrase is very important in
order to create a looped phrase of the correct length. In the past, the
ability to stop recording at the right moment required much practice
using the pedals to get it right.
When Loop Quantize is in effect (when the LOOP QUANTIZE
indicator is lit), then even if there are any minor discrepancies in the
timing of the end of a recording, the phrase length is automatically
corrected based on the patch tempo and guide beat, enabling you to
create phrases that loop properly and have the correct measure
length.
Without LOOP QUANTIZE
LOOP QUANTIZE
Phrase
Phrase
Loop Phrase
Loop Phrase
To Use Loop Quantize

Single Mode
Switching the guide on or off determines whether or not Loop
Quantize can be used.
When the guide is on (when GUIDE LEVEL is set

to anything other than OFF):
You can use Loop Quantize.
The phrase length is automatically corrected in accordance with the
patch tempo.
At this time, the LOOP QUANTIZE indicator lights.
When the guide is off:

You cannot use Loop Quantize.
The phrase length is determined according to the timing at which
you end the recording (with playback or by stopping).
At this time, the LOOP QUANTIZE indicator is off.
In addition, when using Multi mode with Loop Sync on, if Loop
Quantize is in effect (if the LOOP QUANTIZE indicator is lit),
recording automatically stops when the phrase reaches the same
length as the previously recorded phrase, allowing you to record
three phrases, all of exactly the same length.
Example of Recording Using Loop Quantize

Using Single mode, the three phrases Melody A, Melody B, and the
bridge are recorded at the tempo set beforehand.
In this situation, if Loop Quantize is in effect, it enables you to record
with measure lengths completely correct, even if each recorded
phrase contains a different number of measures, so after recording,
phrases play back smoothly in time with the tempo when you play
back loop phrases or switch phrases during playback.
Melody A
When Synchronized Performance (p. 77) is used to synchronize

the RC-50 to an external MIDI devices tempo, Loop Quantize is
enabled for use, just as when the guide is switched on.
You cannot set the tempo for phrases that are looped over an
interval shorter than the minimum recording time
(approximately 1.5 seconds).
Multi Mode
When Loop Sync is set to OFF:
Phrase 1
As in Single Mode, whether or not Loop Quantize is enable for use

changes according to whether the guide is on or off.
If, however, in addition to the phrase you are about to record, a
recorded phrase meeting both of the conditions below is being
played back, the phrase length is automatically adjusted in
accordance with the patch tempo.
Melody B
Phrase 2
Bridge
Phrase 3
Tempo Sync is ON
One Shot (p. 52) is set to LOOP
PHRASE 1
PHRASE 2
PHRASE 3
Melody A Melody A
Phrase 1
When Loop Sync is set to ON:
Melody B
Phrase 2
Bridge
Phrase 3
42
As in Single Mode, whether or not Loop Quantize is enabled for use

changes depending on whether the guide is on or off.
If, however, in addition to the phrase you are about to record, there
is a recorded phrase with One Shot (p. 52) set to LOOP, the phrase is
recorded with the length automatically set to the same duration as
the loop time when Loop Sync (p. 28) is on.
Chapter 4
Creating Patches
Chapter 4 Creating Patches
This section describes how to create patches with the RC-50.

Before creating any patches, be sure that you have carefully read Chapter 2 Basic Setup of the
RC-50 (p. 27) and checked the information required for creating patches beforehand.
43
Preparations for Creating Patches

Before recording the phrases, you must first prepare the patches.
Selecting Patches
When creating a new patch by processing an existing patch or by
selecting an INIT PATCH containing no data, start by selecting a
patch to edit first.
fig.04-010
Initializing Patches to Their

Basic Settings (Patch Initialize)
Patch Initialize allows you to initialize the settings of an existing
patch and restore its basic settings.
When creating an entirely new patch, executing Patch Initialize can
help you prevent any unintended or mistaken settings from being
used.
1
Patch Parameters (p. 97)
fig.04-020
1.
In the Play screen, rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to switch to

a patch.
As you rotate the dial to the right (clockwise), the patch
numbers change up to Patch Number 99, then start over from
Patch Number 1 when you continue to turn the dial.
When the dial is rotated to the left (counterclockwise), the patch
numbers change down to Patch Number 1, then start over from
Patch Number 99 when you continue to turn the dial.
You can set the upper and lower limits at which the patches are
switched. For more detailed information, refer to Limiting the
Patches That Can Be Switched (Patch Extent) (p. 68).
You can switch patches with the RC-50s pedals instead of using
the PATCH/VALUE dial. For more details, refer to Switching
Patches with the Pedals (Patch Select Mode) (p. 33).
You can switch patches using a foot switch connected to the
CTL 1,2 PEDAL or EXP/CTL 3,4 PEDAL jacks.
For more details, refer to Setting the Functions for the RC-50s
Pedals and External Foot Switches (TEMPO/UNDO/CTL1/
CTL2/CTL3/CTL4 Pedal Function) (p. 70).
If Patches Are Not Switching

On the RC-50, patches can only be switched from the Play screen.
Press [EXIT] to return to the Play screen.
1.
1,3
Press [WRITE], then press PARAMETER [

Initialize is displayed.
][
] until
fig.04-030d
2.
Rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the patch you want to

initialize.
If the currently selected patch is the one you want to initialize,
go directly to the next step.
You cannot initialize patch numbers 15 when Preset Protect (p. 69)
is set to ON.
To cancel the initialization, press [EXIT]. The Play screen returns to

the display.
3.
Press [WRITE].
The RC-50 switches to the initialized patch, and the Play screen
returns to the display.
All data contained in the patch is lost once the initialization is
executed.
Do not turn off the power while the message Initializing... is

displayed. This may result in loss of recorded material.
44
Naming Patches
You can give names to patches (patch names) using up to 16
characters.
You can assign whatever names you like, such as names suggesting
the sound created or the name of the song in which it is to be used.
Setting Up the Patch Tempo,

Beat, and Guide
When recording phrases, if you are going perform to a previously set
patch tempo or play along to the guide using a metronome or other
rhythm sound, you will need to set up the patch tempo and guide.
In addition, be sure to set the beat before you start recording.
You can not give names to individual phrases.
Setting the Patch Tempo
fig.04-040
3 51
You can set the patch tempo according to the interval between taps
of the TEMPO pedal or [TAP TEMPO]. Alternatively, you can set the
patch tempo by pressing [TAP TEMPO] and then turning the
PATCH/VALUE dial.
fig.04-060
Chapter 4
1.
Press [NAME/PATCH].
The Patch Name screen appears.
fig.04-050d
*
2.
Press PARAMETER [
][
characters you want to edit.
3.
Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to change the character.

The following functions are available while the characters are
being changed.
Button
Function
Inserts a blank space at the cursor
position.
Alternately switches the letter at the
INS
cursor position between uppercase and
(CTL/EXP PEDAL)
lowercase.
Deletes the character at the cursor position
DEL
and shifts all characters after it to the left.
(SYSTEM/USB)
CAPS
(TAP TEMPO)
4.
Repeat Steps 2 and 3 to make any additional edits to patch

names.
5.
6.
If you want to store the patch name, continue by following the

instructions in Saving by Patch Numbers (Patch Write) (p.
54).
After setting the patch tempo by pressing [TAP TEMPO], press

[EXIT] to return to the Play screen.
You cannot change the tempo while recording of the phrase is

in progress.
When you start out recording the very first phrase without
setting the tempo or playing the guide sound, the patch tempo
is set automatically in accordance with the length of the
recording.
45
Setting the Beat
Playing the Guide
You can set the guides beat. The beat can be changed only when all
phrases are blank.
fig.04-070
1.
3 4
Press [GUIDE SELECT] to display the guide settings screen.
fig.04-061d
2.
Press PARAMETER [
][
] until Beat is displayed.
fig.04-070d
3.
Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the beat for the guide
sound.
Available Settings:
2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 7/4, 5/8, 6/8, 7/8, 8/8, 9/8, 10/8, 11/8,
12/8, 13/8, 14/8, 15/8
4.
When you have finished making the settings, press [EXIT] to

return to the Play screen.
You cannot change the beat while recording phrases or if any of

the phrases have already been recorded.
46
If you are going to be listening to the guide while recording, prepare

the guide by playing it with the volume raised. If recording after
playing the guide beforehand, press [GUIDE START/STOP] to start
the guide.
Making the Patch Settings

These procedures are used to make the settings for the overall patch
playback and recording functions.
Making the Play Mode Settings

Before creating a patch, you will find it convenient to set the Play
mode settings best suited for the way the finished patch will be used
ahead of time.
Simultaneously Starting Recording When

Sounds Are Input (Auto Recording)
You can have recording start simultaneously with the beginning of
musical performances (Auto Recording).
This makes it convenient to have the start of recording timed to the
input of the audio, for example when you want to synchronize the
start of recording to playback from a CD player.
1.
For more detailed information about Play mode, refer to About

Play Modes (p. 28).
Press [AUTO REC] to switch Auto Recording on or off.

Auto Recording alternately switches on (indicator lit) or off
(indicator off) each time the button is pressed.
fig.04-110
1.
Press [PLAY MODE] to switch to the Play Mode screen.

The RC-50 alternately switches to Single mode (indicator off) or
Multi mode (indicator lit) each time the button is pressed.
fig.04-090
Press REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal.

The REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedals indicator flashes rapidly in
red, and the RC-50 switches to recording standby mode.
3.
Start the performance with the instrument, CD player, or other

device.
Recording starts when any signal at or above the value set for
the trigger level (p. 69) is input.
When recording is started through reception of a MIDI Start

message from an external MIDI device, recording begins
immediately, without the RC-50 switching to recording standby.
Setting Loop Sync

When the Play mode is set to Multi mode, you can have playback
repeat with all phrases synchronized to the longest phrase (Loop
Sync On), or have playback repeat according to the length of each
individual phrase (Loop Sync Off).
1.
Press [LOOP SYNC] to switch Loop Sync on or off.

Loop Sync alternately switches on (indicator lit) or off (indicator
off) each time the button is pressed.
Setting the Overdubbing

Method (Overdubbing Mode)
You can set the overdubbing method (overdubbing modes) from any
of three modes.
1.
fig.04-100
Press [OVERDUB MODE] to switch the overdubbing mode.

The overdubbing mode switches each time the button is
pressed, and the OVERDUB MODE indicator corresponding to
the selected overdubbing mode lights.
fig.04-120
For more detailed information about Loop Sync, refer to

Aligned: Loop Sync (p. 28).

The new performance is layered onto the prerecorded phrases. If overdubbing is repeated, the
next performance is layered on top of the previOVERDUB
ous material, allowing you to create an ensemble
in a single phrase.
Phrases with existing recordings are overwritten
as new phrases are recorded over them. Overwriting takes places while the previously recordREPLACE
ed phrases are played back, allowing you to
achieve a kind of delay effect similar to that obtained from an effects processor.
are overwritten by newly recorded phrases. This
differs from REPLACE in that overwriting takes
MOMENTARY
place only while the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB
PUNCH-IN
pedal is held down. This overwrites only at certain points, which is convenient when you want
to edit previously recorded phrases.
47
Chapter 4
2.
Recording-Related Settings
Settings used in recording phrases can made separately for each patch.
fig.04-121
3 5
Flat Amp Simulate

Guitar amps are designed with their frequency response
optimized for the sound of the guitar. As a result, when playing
phrases recorded from CDs and MDs through a guitar amp, the
low- and high-frequency ranges are boosted relative to the
midrange. This function adjusts the tone when recording so that
it sounds correctly when performances other than those with
guitars are played through a guitar amp.
Switching Between Stereo and

Mono (Recording Mode)
1.
Press [INPUT MODE].
2.
Press PARAMETER [
][
want to set is displayed.
Before recording, first set the recording mode.

fig.04-131d
] until the parameter you
fig.04-130d
(Example)
About the Available Recording Time
3.
Rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to adjust the parameter.
4.
5.

Recording While Muting the Sounds

Localized at the Center (AUX Center Cancel)
When recording audio input via the AUX jack, you can eliminate
(cancel) the sound localized at the center of the sonic image.
This allows you to record from sources such as CDs and simply and
easily create minus one data, in which the vocals, guitar solos, or
other sounds that were positioned at the center have been
eliminated.
fig.04-140d
Available Settings: OFF, ON
Recording with the Tone Adjusted for Use with

Guitar Amps (AUX & MIC Flat Amp Simulate)
When recording from the AUX jack or MIC connector, you can
adjust the tone so that the phrase can be played back through a
guitar amp (Flat Amp Simulate).
fig.04-150d
48
You can switch the RC-50s recording mode between Stereo and
Mono modes.
When all of the RC-50s patches are blank, the available
recording time in each mode is shown below.
Recording Mode
STEREO
Available Recording Time

Approx. 24 minutes
MONO
Approx. 49 minutes
You can record using a different mode for each phrase.

For example, you can conserve memory by normally recording
phrases in MONO, while recording with the STEREO
setting only for those phrases you want to have in stereo.
The available recording time is calculated by combining the

memory needed for the actual recording with the memory
required for RC-50 operations (e.g., Undo/Redo), and
converting this total to a time value.
The minimum length of time required for a phrase is
approximately 1.5 seconds. If the phrase youve record is
shorter than that, the length of the phrase will be adjusted
automatically, and then recording will stop.
In overdubbing, the recording quality set for the phrase being
overdubbed is used, regardless of the recording mode setting.
The sound quality (the recording mode set at the time of
recording) of a phrase, once recorded, cannot be changed.
Other Patch Settings

These procedures are for making other patch settings.
fig.04-160
3 51
Adjusting the Patch Volume

You can adjust the overall patch volume. This is convenient when
you want to connect an external EXP pedal and use the pedal to
control the volume or adjust the output volume for both the MAIN
OUTPUT and SUB OUTPUT jacks simultaneously.
Normally, this is set to the center with a level of 100.
fig.04-180d
Available Settings: 0200
Switching Phrases at the End of the

Loop (Phrase Change Mode)
Press [NAME/PATCH] twice.
2.
Press PARAMETER [
you want to set.
][
fig.04-170d
You can select the method used for switching patches in Single mode
and Multi mode and switching the current phrase in Single mode
(Phrase Change mode).
fig.04-190d
(Example)
Available Settings
3.
Rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to adjust the parameter.
4.
5.
When finished making the settings, press [EXIT] to return to

the Play screen.
IMMEDIATE
LOOP END
Description
When a switch in patches or the current phrase is
carried out, recording or playback of the next
designated patch or current phrase begins immediately.
When a switch in patches or the current phrase is
carried out, recording or playback of the next
designated patch or phrase begins once the end
of the current phrase (length of the current loop
when Loop Sync is on in Multi mode) is reached.
Adjusting the Time Used to Fade In

(Fade-In Time)
This adjusts the fade-in time when the phrase is set to fade in upon
playback.
fig.04-210d
Adjusting the Time Used to Fade

Out (Fade-Out Time)
This procedure adjusts the fade out when playback of a phrase is set
to fade out before stopping.
fig.04-200d
49
Chapter 4
1.
Playing Multiple Phrases

Simultaneously (Simul-Start)
Setting Tempo Synchronization

with MIDI (MIDI Sync)
In Multi mode, there may be instances when you want to start

playback of a phrase other than the current phrase along with the
current phrase.
By setting Simul-Start, you can always start playback simultaneously
with the current phrase.
This procedure is used to make the settings for performing at the

same tempo as a performance from an external MIDI device
(synchronized performance).
For more detailed information about MIDI and synchronization,
refer to What You Can Do with MIDI (p. 74).
fig.04-220d
fig.04-211d
The Simul-Start On/Off status for the three phrases is indicated in

the screen.
After pressing PARAMETER [
][
] to select the phrase,
rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to switch the function on or off.
Holding down a PHRASE pedal for at least two seconds in

Multi mode while the phrase is stopped switches on Simul-Start
for that phrase.
Holding down the pedal again for at least two seconds switches
the Simul-Start setting to OFF again.
Pressing the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal always starts

recording or playback, regardless of whether or not the current
phrase has Simul-Start on or off.
Example:
When Phrase 1 is the current phrase and Simul-Start is set to
ON only for Phrase 2 and Phrase 3, all phrases start playing
when the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal is pressed.
Using the All Start function (p. 61) is a convenient way to have
all three phrases play back simultaneously.
Setting the Output for the Sounds

Being Input (Input Output Select)
This selects the output connector to be used for the output of sounds
arriving at the INPUT connectors (INST/MIC/AUX).
fig.04-212d

The sound is output from the MAIN OUTPUT
MAIN
and PHONES jacks.
The sound is output from SUB OUTPUT jacks.
The sound is not output from the MAIN OUTSUB
PUT and PHONES jacks.
The sound is output from the MAIN and
MAIN+SUB
SUB OUTPUT jacks and the PHONES jack.
50

Performances are normally played at the patch
tempo set with the RC-50, but when the RC-50 is
stopped and MIDI start message is received, the
AUTO
performance automatically starts playing at the
tempo determined by the MIDI clock data from
the external MIDI device.
Performances are played at the tempo set with
the RC-50, with recording, playback, and overINTERNAL
dubbing carried out with the RC-50s controls.
Although performances are played at the tempo
set with the RC-50, the start of recording, playREMOTE
back, and stopping (only) are controlled with the
external MIDI device.
Creating Phrases
Once you have finished preparing the patches, you can create
phrases.
4.
Hold down [WRITE] and press PARAMETER [
][
until Copy Phrase* to appears in the display.

fig.04-240d
Copy-Source Phrase Number
Recording a New Phrase

The most basic way to create a phrase is to record a new phrase.For
more on the operations involved, refer to Chapter 5 Using the RC50 in Multi Mode (p. 57) or Chapter 6 Using the RC-50 in Single
Mode (p. 63), depending on the Play mode.
For more about recording, refer to About Recording, Playback,

and Overdubbing (p. 30).
Copy-Destination
Patch Number
5.
Use PARAMETER [
][
parameter you want, and rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to
enter the copy-destination patch number and phrase number.
6.
Press [WRITE].
The phrase is copied. When copying is finished, the Play screen
returns to the display.
Do not turn off the power while the message Now copying...
is displayed. This may result in loss of recorded material.
7.
Rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the patch edited

before copying.
fig.04-230
4,5 2,7,5 1,4,6
When the remainder capacity of RC-50 is a little, the Phrase

Copy fails occasionally and the message Memory Full!
appears.
To Confirm the Available Recording Time (p. 30)
3
1.
To prevent loss of the content of the current work, press

[WRITE] twice to save the current patch.
Since you need to confirm the sound of the current source
phrase, you must select the copy-source patch once in Phrase
Copy.
Save the patch so the content of the current operation is not lost.
2.
In the Play screen, rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the

patch in which the phrase you want to copy is recorded.
3.
Press the PHRASE pedal for the phrase you want to copy; the
phrase is selected.
If necessary, press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal, and
confirm the sound as the phrase plays, then press the STOP
pedal to stop playback.
Importing Audio Files from

a Computer
You can connect a computer via USB and use imported files (.WAV)
as phrases.
For more detailed information on connecting to computers, refer to
Chapter 9 Connecting to Computers (p. 79).
Adjusting the Phrase Volume

You can set the volume of each of the phrases individually with the
PHRASE 1/2/3 LEVEL knobs.
When the knob is at the center position, the volume of the finished
phrase when played back is the same as the volume level during
recording.
Available Settings: 0200 (100 with the knob at center position)
You may find it convenient to use the AUX/MIC/INST level

knobs to adjust the volume when recording and the PHRASE
LEVEL knobs to adjust the volume balance of each phrase after
recording.
51
Chapter 4
Copying Phrases from Other

Patches (Phrase Copy)
If you already have a patch created, you can then take a specific
phrase from that patch and copy it to the current patch.
This is a convenient method to use when you need a pattern with the
same backing, as it allows you to prepare phrases simply and easily
without having to start recording from scratch again.
Copy-Destination
Phrase Number
Making the Phrase Settings

After recording of the phrases is completed, proceed by setting the
phrase playback method and other functions.
fig.04-250d
3 5
Having Phrases Play Only Once

(One Shot)
You can select whether to have a phrase play only one time after
starting (One Shot) or repeat playback (Loop).
fig.04-290d
1.
Press [PHRASE] for the phrase whose settings you want to

change, displaying the phrase settings screen.

Playback repeats.
LOOP
Phrase is played back one time only.
The ONE SHOT indicator for the set phrase
ONE SHOT
lights.
fig.04-260d
You cannot overdub when the phrase is set to ONE SHOT.
2.
Press PARAMETER [
you want to edit.
][
fig.04-270d
Playing Back in the Opposite

Direction (Reverse)
(Example)
During playback, you can reverse the time front to back to reverse
playback.
fig.04-280d
3.
Rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to change the setting.
4.
5.


Playback is normal.
OFF
Playback is reversed.
ON
The REVERSE indicator for the set phrase lights.
Playing Back While Fading

In (Start Mode)
When playing back phrases, you can select whether to start playback
with a fade-in or have playback start immediately.
fig.04-300d

Playback starts immediately.
IMMEDIATE
FADE IN
52
Playback starts while fading in.
Making the Phrase Settings
Selecting the Method Use to

Stop Phrases (Stop Mode)
You can select the manner in which playback of phrases stops, either
by stopping while fading out, after playing back to the end of the
loop, or immediately.
fig.04-310d
Synchronizing Playback of the Phrase

to the Patch Tempo (Tempo Sync)
You can have playback of phrases recorded at different original
tempos be synchronized to the patch tempo.
When playing back effect sounds and other material with tempos
differing from the songs tempo, which you want to play back at
tempos other than the songs tempo, set Tempo Sync to off.
fig.04-330d

Stops immediately.
IMMEDIATE
FADE OUT
LOOP END
Playback stops while fading out.

Playback stops after playing back to the end of
the loop.
For more detailed information on Tempo sync, refer to About

Tempo Sync (p. 36).
Switching the Output for the

Phrase Sounds (Output Select)
You can switch the jacks used to output the sounds of each of the
phrases.
If the phrase is stopped when the Stop mode is set to FADE

OUT or LOOP END, no further overdubbing can be carried out
up to the point at which the phrase stops playing.
Adjusting the Volume of the

Phrases (Phrase Level)
*
You can also change this value with the PHRASE LEVEL knob.
fig.04-311d
fig.04-340d

MAIN
and PHONES jacks.
The sound is output from the SUB OUTPUT
jacks.
SUB
The sound is not output from the MAIN OUTPUT and PHONES jacks.
The sound is output from the MAIN and SUB
MAIN+SUB
OUTPUT jacks and the PHONES jack.
Adjusting the Positioning of

the Phrases Sound (Pan)
You can save Output Select settings to each patch individually,

or have the same settings used by all of the patches.
Using the Same Audio Outputs for All Patches (Input/
Phrase 1, 2, 3/Guide Output Select) (p. 69)
You can adjust the positioning (panning) of the phrases sound.

Using Pan to spread the phrases out laterally allows you to perform
with an expansive, ensemble sound.
fig.04-320d

Playback is from the left of center. When set to
L50L1
L50, playback comes from the left side only.
Playback is from the center.
CENTER
Playback is from the right of center. When set to
R1R50
R50, playback comes from the right side only.
53
Chapter 4
After pressing the STOP pedal with Stop mode set to FADE
OUT or LOOP END, you can have playback stop immediately
by pressing the STOP pedal a second time before the playback is
actually programmed to stop.
Saving Patches
After creating a patch, save the patch to prevent the content you
have created from being deleted.
Saving by Patch Numbers

(Patch Write)
Copying Patches (Patch Copy)

You can copy a patch to a different patch.
fig.04-370
2,4
After selecting the save-destination patch, save the patch in its

current form.
fig.04-350
1.
1,3
Press [WRITE].
The Patch Write screen appears; you can now specify the savedestination patch number.
1.
Select a copy-source patch.

Select a patch, referring to the information in Selecting
Patches (p. 44).
2.
Press [WRITE].
The Patch Copy screen appears; you can now specify the copydestination patch number.
fig.04-380d
Copy-Destination Patch Number
fig.04-360d
Save-Destination Patch Number
Patch Name (Copy Destination)

Patch Name (Save Destination)
3.
2.
Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the save-destination

patch number.
You cannot copy to patch numbers 15 when Preset Protect (p. 69) is
set to ON.
You cannot save to patch numbers 15 when Preset Protect (p. 69) is
set to ON.
To cancel the copy, press [EXIT]. The Play screen returns to the
display.
To cancel the Write procedure, press [EXIT]. The Play screen returns
to the display.
4.
Press [WRITE].
The RC-50 switches to the save-destination patch, and the Play
screen returns to the display.
All data contained in the copy-destination patch is lost once the copy
is executed.
This procedure is not required if the patch number is acceptable as is.
*
*
3.
Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the copy-destination

patch number.
Press [WRITE].
The patch is saved, and the Play screen returns to the display.
All data contained in the patch is lost once Patch Write is executed.
If the phrase that have been overdubbed exists and the Tempo Sync (p.
53) is set to ON, the original tempo of the phrase is updated to the
patch tempo at saving.
When the remainder capacity of RC-50 is a little, the Patch Copy

fails occasionally and the message Memory Full! appears.
When the remainder capacity of RC-50 is a little, the Patch Write

fails occasionally and the message Memory Full! appears.
Do not turn off the power while the message Now writing...
54
Do not turn off the power while the message Now copying...
Saving Patches
Exchanging Patches
(Patch Exchange)
You can exchange patches with one another, rearranging the
patches.
fig.04-390
2,5
Select an exchange-source patch.

Select the patch while referring to the information in Selecting
Patches (p. 44).
2.
Press [WRITE].
3.
Press PARAMETER [
][
] until Exchange appears
in the display.
The Patch Exchange screen appears; you can now specify the
exchange-destination patch number.
Chapter 4
1.
fig.04-400d
Exchange-Destination Patch Number
Patch Name (Exchange Destination)
4.
Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to select the exchangedestination patch number.
You cannot exchange using patch numbers 15 when Preset Protect

(p. 69) is set to ON.
5.
Press [WRITE].
The patches are exchanged, and the Play screen returns to the
display.
If the phrase that have been overdubbed exists and the Tempo Sync (p.
53) is set to ON, the original tempo of the phrase is updated to the
patch tempo at saving.
Do not turn off the power while the message Exchanging... is

displayed. This may result in loss of recorded material.
55
M E M O
56
Chapter 5
Using the RC-50 in Multi Mode
Chapter 5 Using the RC-50 in Multi Mode
This section describes operations when the Play mode (p. 28) is set to Multi mode.
In Multi mode, you can play back three phrases simultaneously or record the current phrase
as you listen to the performance of previously recorded phrases.
57
Examples of the Use of Multi Mode

The following describes how Multi mode can be used when Loop Sync is on and when it is switched off.

When Loop Sync is on, you can obtain simultaneous playback of three phrases, with the phrases played at the same tempo and with the same length.
Example 1) Recording three blank phrases, one after another, to create an

ensemble when played in real time
fig.05-010
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Phrase 1
(Current Phrase)
PHRASE 2
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Recording
Phrase 2
PHRASE 3
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Playback
Playback
Playback
Recording
(Current Phrase)
Playback
Playback
Recording
(Current Phrase)
Phrase 3
Overdubbing
In this manner, using the PHRASE 1, 2, and 3 pedals and REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal to switch the current phrase as you proceed with the
recording, you can continue recording one phrase after another while playing back the phrase or phrases recorded thus far.
Although repeatedly overdubbing using a single phrase so as to make Phrase 2 and Phrase 3 the same length as Phrase 1 produces a similar effect,
the ability to stop any selected phrase and realize other forms of control of the phrases enables a greater degree of performance expression.
You cannot overdub with a phrase that is set to ONE SHOT. In addition, such phrases cannot be played back using loop playback.
The recorded length varies according to the Tempo Sync settings.

For more detailed information, refer to Playing Back Phrases with All Lengths and Beginnings Aligned: Loop Sync (p. 28).
Example 2) Playing back phrases as an ensemble, beginning playback of

recorded phrases one after another
fig.05-020
REC/PLAY
OVERDUB
PHRASE 2
Phrase 1
(Current Phrase)
Phrase 2
REC/PLAY
OVERDUB
PHRASE 3
REC/PLAY
OVERDUB
Playback
Playback
Playback
Playback
(Current Phrase)
Playback
Playback
Playback
(Current Phrase)
Playback
Playback
Phrase 3
Regardless of the timing at which the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal is pressed, phrases start playing according to their location within the overall
playback.
When the ONE SHOT function is used for a phrase, playback starts from the beginning of the phrases when the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB
pedal is pressed.
Example 3) Recording to a blank phrase in time with previously recorded Phrase 3

fig.05-030
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Phrase 1
(Current Phrase)
Phrase 3
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Recording
Overdubbing
Playback
Playback
Playback
Playback
When you have a phrase that has already been recorded, recording continues until the end of the previously recorded phrase, after which
overdubbing begins.
58
Examples of the Use of Multi Mode

When Loop Sync is switched off, each of the phrases plays back repeatedly according to the individual phrases length.
Example 1) Recording three blank phrases, one after another, to create an

ensemble when played in real time
fig.05-040
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Phrase 1
(Current Phrase)
PHRASE 2
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Recording
PHRASE 3
Playback
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Playback
Playback
Recording (Current Phrase)
Phrase 2
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Playback
Playback
Recording
(Current Phrase)
Phrase 3
Playback
In this manner, using the PHRASE 1, 2, and 3 pedals and REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal to switch the current phrase as you proceed with the
recording, you can continue recording one phrase after another while playing back the phrase or phrases recorded thus far.
If Tempo Sync is on for the first phrase recorded (Phrase 1, as an example), you can record later phrases at the same tempo as that of the phrase
recorded first (Loop Quantize; p. 42).
You can record each phrase with a different length, making it convenient for combining loops, each of which is only the length needed; for
example, with a one-measure bass pattern and two-measure riff pattern.
Chapter 5
To match recorded lengths in measure units, use Loop Quantize.

Loop Quantize (p. 42)
Example 2) Repeated playback of desired recorded phrases

fig.05-050
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
REC/PLAY/
PHRASE 2 OVERDUB PHRASE 3
Phrase 1
(Current Phrase)
Playback
Phrase 2
(Current Phrase)
Phrase 3
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Playback
Playback
(Current Phrase)
Playback
Playback
Playback
Playback
Playback
Playback
When the phrases are being played back, playback of the phrase begins after the phrase is made the current phrase and the REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB pedal is pressed. This allows you mix effect sounds and instrument performances with timings that are almost inconceivable.
59
Pedal Operations in Multi Mode

Starting Recording and
Operations During Recording
To record to a blank phrase, make the phrase you want to record to
the current phrase and then press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal.

If there are any phrases other than the current phrase that already
have been recorded, then recording continues up to the end point of
the longest phrase, after which recording automatically switches to
overdubbing.
For more detailed information, refer to Playing Back Phrases with
All Lengths and Beginnings Aligned: Loop Sync (p. 28).
You can have recording start simultaneously with the

beginning of musical performances. For more detailed
information, refer to Simultaneously Starting Recording When
Sounds Are Input (Auto Recording) (p. 47).
Switching Phrases with the PHRASE Pedals

When you press a PHRASE pedal other than the one for the current
phrase during recording, the orange indicator for the pressed
PHRASE pedal flashes, indicating that recording or playback will
begin at the same time recording of the current phrase ends
(advanced selection of the current phrase).
To start recording or playback of the phrase for the pressed pedal,
press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal to stop recording of the
current phrase.
To cancel the advanced selection of the current phrase, press the
pedal with the lit orange indicator once more.
You cannot change the tempo, for example using the TEMPO
pedal or [TAP TEMPO], while recording of the phrase is in
progress.
Starting Playing and

Operations During Playing
To play back a recorded phrase, make the phrase that you want to
play back the current phrase, then press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB
pedal.
Playing Back One Shot Phrases Continuously

When a phrase is set to ONE SHOT (p. 52), then each time the REC/
PLAY/OVERDUB pedal is pressed during playback, the phrase will
start playing from the beginning again.
By continuously pressing the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal, you
can have the One Shot phrase play back continuously.
Adjusting the Patch Tempo

You can change the patch tempo while playback is in progress with
the TEMPO pedal or [TAP TEMPO].
If Tempo Sync is SET to ON in the phrase, you can then control the
phrases playback speed.
60
Switching Phrases with the

PHRASE Pedals
phrase during playback, playback continues with the current phrase
switched.
Operations at the Start of Overdubbing

and During Overdubbing
When overdubbing to a recorded phrase, use the following
procedure.
52).
1.
Set the phrase you want to overdub as the current phrase.
2.
While playing back the phrase, press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB

pedal.

If there are any phrases other than the current phrase that
already have been recorded, then recording continues up to the
end point of the longest phrase, after which recording
automatically switches to overdubbing.
For more detailed information, refer to Playing Back Phrases
with All Lengths and Beginnings Aligned: Loop Sync (p. 28).

phrase during overdubbing, the orange indicator for the pressed
PHRASE pedal flashes, indicating that recording or playback will
begin at the same time overdubbing to the current phrase ends
(advanced selection of the current phrase).
To start recording or playback of the phrase for the pressed pedal,
press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal to stop overdubbing to the
current phrase.
To cancel the advanced selection of the current phrase, press the
pedal with the lit orange indicator once more.
You cannot overdub a phrase when the phrase is set to ONE

SHOT. Pressing the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal during
playback starts playback again from the beginning of the
phrase.
pedal or [TAP TEMPO], while overdubbing is in progress.
Pedal Operations in Multi Mode
Setting Phrases to Simul-Start

with the Pedal
Starting and Stopping Playback of All

Phrases Simultaneously (All Start/All Stop)
Setting Simul-Start lets you start recording or playback of phrases

other than the current phrase simultaneously with the start of
recording or playback of the current phrase.
You can set Simul-Start for pedal as well as button operations.
There may be times when Phrases 1, 2, and 3 all have material

recorded to them and you want to start playback of all of the phrases
simultaneously, or have all currently playing phrases
simultaneously stop.
In such instances, you can have all of the phrases start playback (All
Start) or stop (All Stop) at the same time by simultaneously pressing
the PHRASE 2 and PHRASE pedals.
1.
If a performance is playing, first stop all phrases.
2.
Press and hold down the PHRASE pedal corresponding to the

phrase for which you want to set Simul-Start for at least two
seconds.
The green indicator flashes when Simul-Start is set.
Setting Simul-Start with the Buttons

1.
Press [NAME/PATCH] twice.
2.
Press PARAMETER [
Patch:SimulStart.
][
Using All Start when the current phrase is blank starts

recording (rather than playback).
You can also control All Start and All Stop using a foot switch
or MIDI messages.
] to display
fig.05-060d
Auto Start and Auto Stop do not function in Single mode, even
if you press the PHRASE 2 and PHRASE 3 pedals
simultaneously.
3.
Use the PATCH/VALUE dial and PARAMETER [

to switch the On/Off setting for each phrase.
][
Refer to Playing Multiple Phrases Simultaneously (SimulStart) (p. 50).
61
Chapter 5

Controlling Other Functions (CC#1/CC#7/CC#80
Functions) (p. 77)
M E M O
62
Chapter 6
Using the RC-50 in Single Mode
Chapter 6 Using the RC-50 in Single Mode
This section describes operations when the Play mode (p. 28) is set to Single mode.
In Single mode, you can easily record and play back while sequentially switching the three
phrases.
63
Examples of the Use of Single Mode

Example 1) Recording three blank phrases, one after another, performing while creating a song
fig.06-010
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Phrase 1
(Current Phrase)
PHRASE 2
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
PHRASE 3
Recording
Recording (Current Phrase)
Phrase 2
Recording
(Current Phrase)
Phrase 3
Playback
In this manner, when a PHRASE pedal is pressed during recording to select the current phrase, the phrase being recorded up to that point stops,
and recording of the next phrase begins.
If, for example, you record phrases with different chords to each of three phrases, after recording you can then create chord progressions by
playing them back in the order desired as you perform.
In addition, you can record whole sections of songs, such as Melody A, Melody B, and bridge, as is, allowing you to compose songs as you
perform.
Setting Phrase Change Mode (p. 49) to LOOP END is a convenient way to switch phrases at the point the loop ends.
When Tempo Sync (p. 53) is on, you can play all of the phrases at the same tempo.
Example 2) Playing back three recorded One Shot phrases one after another
Record three phrases beforehand, set them to ONE SHOT (p. 52) and set Phrase Change mode (p. 49) to IMMEDIATE.
fig.06-020
REC/PLAY/
OVERDUB
Phrase 1
(Current Phrase)
Phrase 2
Phrase 3
PHRASE 2
PHRASE 2
PHRASE 3 PHRASE 2
PHRASE 1
Playback
Playback
Playback
Playback
Playback
Playback
In this manner, if another PHRASE pedal is pressed while the current phrase is playing back, playback of the current phrase is cancelled, and
playback of the next phrase begins.
Furthermore, when the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal or the PHRASE pedal for the current phrase is pressed continuously, playback of the
phrase starts over from the beginning each time the pedal is pressed.
For example, you can create performances with greater impact by playing back phrases one after another in a song using a variety of effects
sounds as One Shot phrases.
64
Pedal Operations in Single Mode

Starting Recording and
Operations During Recording
To record to a blank phrase, make the phrase you want to record to
the current phrase and then press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal.
You can have recording start automatically at the same time

performance on a musical instrument begins. For more detailed
information, refer to Simultaneously Starting Recording When
Sounds Are Input (Auto Recording) (p. 47).

phrase during recording, the selected phrase becomes the new
current phrase, and recording or playback of that phrase starts.
Recording starts if the phrase is blank, playback starts if it is a
recorded phrase.
When Phrase Change Mode is Set to LOOP END

phrase, the orange and green or red indicators for the pressed
PHRASE pedal flash, indicating that, if left without further changes,
recording/playback of the selected phrase will begin at the same
time playback of the current phrase ends.
If you press the PHRASE pedal for the current phrase (with the lit
orange indicator) while these indicators are flashing, the indicators
stop flashing, and playback of the current phrase continues as is.
When Phrase Change Mode is Set to IMMEDIATE

phrase, the selected phrase becomes the new current phrase, and
recording or playback of that phrase starts. Recording starts if the
phrase is blank, playback starts if it is a recorded phrase.
Operations at the Start of Overdubbing

and During Overdubbing
When overdubbing to a recorded phrase, use the following procedure.
pedal or [TAP TEMPO], while recording of the phrase is in
progress.
To play back a recorded phrase, make the phrase that you want to
play back the current phrase, then press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB
pedal.
Playing Back One Shot Phrases Continuously

When a phrase is set to ONE SHOT (p. 52), then each time the REC/
PLAY/OVERDUB pedal is pressed during playback, the phrase will
start playing from the beginning again.
By continuously pressing the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal, you
can have the One Shot phrase play back continuously.
When Phrase Change mode (p. 49) is set to IMMEDIATE, you

can also achieve continuous playback by holding down a
PHRASE pedal.
Adjusting the Patch Tempo

You can change the patch tempo while playback is in progress with
the TEMPO pedal or [TAP TEMPO].
If Tempo Sync is set to ON in the phrase, you can then control the
phrases playback speed.

The manner in which phrases are switched when a PHRASE pedal
other than that for the current phrase is pressed differs according to
the Phrase Change Mode setting.
1.
Set the phrase you want to overdub as the current phrase.
2.
While playing back the phrase, press the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB

pedal.

phrase during overdubbing, the RC-50 switches to the next phrase
according to the Phrase Change Mode (p. 49) settings.
When Phrase Change Mode is Set to LOOP END

phrase, the orange and red or green indicators for the pressed
PHRASE pedal flash, while overdubbing of the current phrase
switches to playback, and recording/playback of the selected phrase
will begin at the same time playback of the current phrase ends.
If you press the PHRASE pedal for the current phrase (with the lit
orange indicator) while these indicators are flashing, the indicators
stop flashing, and overdubbing of the current phrase continues as is.
When Phrase Change Mode is Set to IMMEDIATE

phrase, the selected phrase becomes the new current phrase, and
recording or playback of that phrase starts. Recording starts if the
phrase is blank, playback starts if it is a recorded phrase.
You cannot overdub a phrase when the phrase is set to ONE

SHOT. Pressing the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal during
playback starts playback again from the beginning of the phrase.
pedal or [TAP TEMPO], while overdubbing is in progress.
65
Chapter 6
Starting Playing and

Operations During Playing
52).
M E M O
66
Chapter 7
Other Functions
Chapter 7 Other Functions
Checking the Remaining

Recording Time
The RC-50 features about 250 MB of built-in memory for saving patches and recording, and the amount of
recording time that remains available will vary depending on the length of the phrases in the saved
patches.
The available recording time is indicated in the lower part of the right display when the Play screen is
displayed.
About the Available Recording Time

With the RC-50, you can change the recording mode (p. 48) to record for more extended periods, and
record with the RC-50 switched to stereo or mono mode.
When all of the RC-50s patches are blank, the available recording time in each recording mode is as
shown below.
Recording Mode
STEREO

Approx. 24 minutes
MONO
Approx. 49 minutes
The times listed above take into account the amount of memory needed for the actual recording
combined with the memory required for the RC-50s operations (e.g., Undo/Redo).
67
System Settings
System settings cover parameters whose settings affect the overall
operation of the RC-50.
These parameters remain unchanged, even when the patches are
switched.
Adjusting the Screen

Brightness (LCD Contrast)
fig.07-020
In some locations where the RC-50 is set up, you may find that the
(right) display is difficult to read.
If this occurs, adjust the displays contrast (brightness).
3 51
fig.07-040d
1.
Press [SYSTEM/USB].
2.
Press PARAMETER [
][
want to set is displayed.
Limiting the Patches That Can Be

Switched (Patch Extent)
] until the parameter you
fig.07-030d
(Example)
3.
Rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to change the value of the

setting.
4.
Repeat Steps 2 and 3 as needed.
5.

Setting upper and lower limits for patches the RC-50 can switch to,
thereby defining the range of available patches for switching,
enables you to select only the necessary patches. For example, by
saving patches for different applications in ranges from 1 to 10, 11 to
20, and so on, and setting these ranges with Patch Extent, you can
then limit the range of patches the RC-50 can switch to in Patch
Select mode or with the PATCH/VALUE dial, thus reducing the
operations involved in switching patches.
Press PARAMETER [
][
] to move the cursor, and rotate the
PATCH/VALUE dial to set the upper and lower limits of the range.
fig.07-050d
Setting the Knob Functions

(Knob Mode)
This sets the way the values of settings are changed when the control
knobs are turned.
*
The Knob Mode setting works with respect to the PHRASE 1/2/3
LEVEL and GUIDE LEVEL knobs.
fig.07-055d
Available Settings
IMMEDIATE
CURRENT SETTING
KNOB POSITION
Description
Turning the knobs immediately changes the
values.
Values begin to change only once the knob
position reaches the values set in the patch.
Values correspond to the knob positions at
all times.
When patches are switched with Knob Mode set to KNOB

POSITION, the settings of the patch in effect immediately
following the switch are changed to the values corresponding to
the knob positions, so the patch will not function according to
the patch settings.
68
System Settings
fig.07-052d
Adjusting the Auto Recording

Sensitivity (Trigger Level)
This sets the input level at which recording is started (the trigger
level) when Auto Recording is used.Input levels at or above the
value set here will cause recording to start.
fig.07-051d
Overdubbing Immediately After

Recording (REC Pedal Action)
You can change the manner in which recording, playback, and
overdubbing are switched when the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal
is pressed with a blank current phrase.
This enables you to start overdubbing immediately after recording.
fig.07-053d
When the REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal is pressed during

recording while the phrase is set to ONE SHOT (p. 52) or with
Reverse (p. 52) set to ON, playback begins without overdubbing
starting.

Normal setting.Pressing the pedal after an initial
recording switches the RC-50 to playback mode.
Successive presses of the pedal result in the funcREC PLAY
tion switching as follows: Recording Playback
Overdubbing Playback...
Pressing the pedal after an initial recording
switches the RC-50 to overdub mode.
REC
Successive presses of the pedal result in the funcOVERDUB
tion switching as follows: Recording
Overdubbing Playback Overdubbing...
Protecting Patch Numbers

15 (Preset Protect)
You can prevent accidental deletion or erasure of data in the patches
numbered 15. This feature is called Preset Protect.
When Preset Protect is set to ON, you can still make temporary
changes to the patch settings, but you cannot overwrite the patch
with the changed content.
*
Even when Factory Reset (p. 95) is executed, the data in patch
numbers 15 remains unchanged if Preset Protect is switched on.
fig.07-054d
Using the Same Audio Outputs for All Patches

(Input/Phrase 1, 2, 3/Guide Output Select)
When the RC-50 is connected with the computer via USB and
performs Recover/Import, the patch data will be overwritten
regardless of the setting of Preset Protect.
Normally, the settings determining which jacks are used in

outputting input sounds, phrases, and guide sounds are stored in
each patch, but you can elect, as a setting affecting the RC-50 overall,
to have all of these use the same output at all times.
This is convenient when, for example, you are using the RC-50 for
live performances in varying environments, and you want to
temporarily change the output settings for all of the patches.
69
Chapter 7
When REC Pedal Action is set to REC OVERDUB, pressing

the STOP pedal during recording stops recording and starts
playback.

Outputs stored in the patches are used.
PATCH
and PHONES jacks, regardless of the patch setMAIN
tings.
The sound is output from SUB OUTPUT,
regardless of the patch settings.
SUB
The sound is not output from the MAIN OUTPUT and PHONES jacks.
The sound is output from the MAIN and SUB
OUTPUT jacks and the PHONES jack, regardless
MAIN+SUB
of the patch settings.
Regardless of the patch settings, the input sound
MUTE
is not output.
(Input Out only)
* Recording to the phrase still takes place.
Pedal Settings
While the RC-50 already features seven pedals, you can also switch
the pedal functions of the TEMPO pedal and UNDO/REDO pedal.
Rather than using the pedal for UNDO and REDO, you can switch
the pedal to perform another desired function, for example to
increase patch numbers one by one.
In addition, by connecting external pedals to the CTL 1, 2 PEDAL
and EXP/CTL 3, 4 PEDAL jacks, you can use the external pedals to
control functions that are difficult to handle using the RC-50s pedals
alone, making operation of the RC-50 easier and more convenient.
Setting the Functions for the RC-50s Pedals

and External Foot Switches (TEMPO/UNDO/
CTL1/CTL2/CTL3/CTL4 Pedal Function)
This procedure sets the functions for the RC-50s TEMPO pedal and
UNDO/REDO pedals and for foot switches connected to the CTL 1,2
PEDAL jack and the EXP/CTL 3, 4 PEDAL jack.
*
System Settings and Patch Settings
The following shows the correspondence between pedal switch (A/B)

and CTL pedal functions when an FS-6 is connected.
fig.07-090
Pedal functions operate in accordance with system settings, that is,

settings that are shared by and applied the same way to all of the
RC-50s functions and that remain the same regardless of the patch
selected, and patch settings, or settings that are used to select
different functions for each individual patch.
In each parameter, you select whether the system settings or the
patch settings are to be applied, giving you the freedom to apply
them as needed for any environment.
Use the following procedure to switch between system and patch
settings.
fig.07-070
2,3
3 15
CTL4
CTL3
CTL2
CTL1
When connecting two foot switches with the special connection cable
(Roland PCS-31; optional, sold separately), the correspondence
between pedal switch and CTL pedal functions is as shown below.
fig.07-100
1.
Press [CTL/EXP PEDAL] to display the pedal settings screen.
fig.07-080d
2.
3.
Press PARAMETER [
][
] to display the pedal
function screen for the pedal whose settings you want to
change.
PCS-31
Red
Red
CTL4
~~: PAT
The patch settings are used.
When switching between the system settings and patch settings,

EXP Func, EXP Level Min/Max, and EXP Tempo Min/Max
are together affected.
4.
5.
70
White
After using PARAMETER [

][
] to move the cursor to
SYS or PAT in the upper row of the display, you can then
rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to select either the system
settings or patch settings as the settings to be used.

The system settings are used.
~~: SYS
PCS-31
White
CTL3
CTL2
CTL1
If you want to connect foot switches individually, the CTL1 pedal

function and CTL3 pedal function settings are used.
Pedal Settings
fig.07-110
Available Settings
2,3
3 15
1.
Press [CTL/EXP PEDAL].
2.
Press PARAMETER [
][
] to display the desired
parameter, either TEMPO Func, Undo Func, CTL1 Func,
CTL2 Func, CTL3 Func, or CTL4 Func.
Applies to both system settings and patch settings

No operation
OFF
Starts and stops playback of all Phrases 13
ALL START/STOP
simultaneously
PHRASE 1 PLY/STP Starts and stops playback of Phrase 1 (*)
PHRASE 2 PLY/STP
Starts and stops playback of Phrase 2 (*)
PHRASE 3 PLY/STP
PHRASE 1 PLAY
Starts playback of Phrase 1 (*)
PHRASE 2 PLAY

PHRASE 3 PLAY
(*)
Playback does not start if the phrase is blank.
Playback begins immediately, with no playback count-in sound
played.
Stops playback of Phrase 1
PHRASE 1 STOP
fig.07-120d
PHRASE 2 STOP
PHRASE 3 STOP
PHRASE 1 CLEAR

Turns reverse playback of Phrase 1 on and
off
off
off
Switches Loop and One Shot playback for
Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Phrase 3
Clears Phrase 1 (*)
PHRASE 2 CLEAR
Clears Phrase 2 (*)
PHRASE 1 REVERSE
PHRASE 2 REVERSE
PHRASE 3 REVERSE
PHRASE 1 ONESHOT
PHRASE 2 ONESHOT
PHRASE 3 ONESHOT
Use PARAMETER [
][
lower row of the display, then use the PATCH/VALUE dial to
set the pedal or foot switch function.
4.
5.
When selecting patch pedal settings, use the procedure described in

Saving by Patch Numbers (Patch Write) (p. 54) when saving the
settings.
Clears Phrase 3 (*)

PHRASE 3 CLEAR
(*) Phrases cannot be cleared if the current phrase is being
recorded/overdubbed.
Turns reverse playback of the current
CURRENT REVERSE
phrase on and off
CURRENT ONE SHOT
the current phrase
Clears the current phrase (*)
CURRENT CLEAR
Undo/Redo
UNDO/REDO
PATCH TEMPO (TAP) Tap input for patch tempo
Switches Overdubbing mode switching
OVERDUB MODE INC sequence to OVERDUB REPLACE
MOMENTARY PUNCH-IN
GUIDE START/STOP Starts and stops the guide
Switches the Play mode (Single/Multi)
PLAY MODE
* All phrases stop when the mode is switched
during recording, playback, or overdubbing.
Applies to system settings only
PATCH NUMBER INC Switches to the next higher patch number
PATCH NUMBER DEC Switches to the next lower patch number
Writes the patch
PATCH WRITE
* When pressing a pedal twice, Patch Write is
executed.
71
Chapter 7
3.
Description
Pedal Settings
Setting the Functions for the

EXP pedal
EXP Pedal Functions

This procedure selects the function to be controlled by the EXP pedal.
fig.07-131d
This procedure sets the functions for the EXP pedal connected to the
EXP/CTL 3,4 PEDAL jack.
fig.07-130
2,3,4 3,4 1 6
Available Settings
OFF
Description
No operation
PHRASE 1 LEVEL
Controls the volume level of Phrase 1
PHRASE 2 LEVEL

PHRASE 3 LEVEL
Pressing the pedal down increases the volume level.
Controls the panning of Phrase 1
PHRASE 1 PAN
PHRASE 2 PAN
1.
Press [CTL/EXP PEDAL].
2.
Press PARAMETER [
][
] to display either
EXP Func, EXP Level, or EXP Tempo.
fig.07-130d

PHRASE 3 PAN
Pressing the pedal down shifts the sound to the right; releasing the
pedal shifts the sound to the left.
Controls the volume level of the current phrase
CURRENT LEVEL
CURRENT PAN
Controls the panning of the current phrase
GUIDE LEVEL
Controls the volume level of the guide sound
PATCH LEVEL
Controls the patchs volume level
Controls the patch tempo

PATCH TEMPO
Pressing the pedal down increases the tempo.
EXP Pedal Min/Max Level

This procedure sets the minimum and maximum volume levels
when the level is being controlled with the EXP pedal.
fig.07-140d
3.

][

~~: SYS
~~: PAT
4.
Use PARAMETER [
][
change the setting.
5.
6.

settings.
When switching between the system settings and patch settings,

EXP Func, EXP Level Min/Max, and EXP Tempo Min/
Max are together affected.
72
EXP Pedal Min/Max Tempo

This procedure sets the minimum and maximum tempos when the
patch level is being controlled with the EXP pedal.
Press PARAMETER [
][
] to move the cursor to the digit
you want to change, then rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to change
the setting.
fig.07-150d
Chapter 8
Using MIDI
Chapter 8 Using MIDI
73
What You Can Do with MIDI

You can use MIDI with the RC-50 for the following kinds of operations.
*
Use of MIDI requires that the MIDI channels be matched with those of
the connected device. Data cannot be transmitted to, nor received from
another MIDI device unless the MIDI channels are set properly.
Controlling Operations from

the RC-50
Outputting Tempo Data and Data for
Starting and Stopping Playback
The RC-50s performance tempo data is transmitted to external
MIDI devices as MIDI clock.
Synchronizing tempos to the RC-50 enables control of MIDI
clock-based effects processors and other such devices.
Playback start and stop operations with the RC-50s pedals can
be transmitted as MIDI Start and Stop messages.
Sequencers, recorders, and other such devices can be
synchronized to start and stop playback simultaneously with
the RC-50.
Outputting Program Change Messages

When a patch is selected with the RC-50, a Program Change message
corresponding to the selected patch number is transmitted
simultaneously. The external MIDI device switches its settings in
accordance with the received Program Change message.
Controlling Operations from

External Devices
Receiving Tempo Data and Data for
Starting and Stopping Playback
The RC-50 can receive MIDI clock from external MIDI devices
and perform at the same tempo as (be synchronized with) the
external MIDI device. This enables control of the RC-50 using
the same tempo as that of recorders and other equipment.
Playback of the current phrase and control of All Stop can be
achieved through receipt of MIDI Start and Stop messages.
If Simul-Start (p. 50) is set, you can also start playback of any
desired phrase from an external MIDI device.
Switching Patch Numbers

The RC-50s patches switch simultaneously upon receipt of
corresponding Program Change messages from external MIDI devices.
The following figure shows a connection scheme whereby the

performance with the RC-50 is automatically played as a
backing performance. Patches switch automatically when a
Program Change message (Program Number) corresponding to
the patch, along with the performance data, is input at the point
where you want the RC-50s patches to be switched.
fig.08-020
fig.08-010
MIDI OUT
MIDI IN
MIDI IN
MIDI OUT
Outputting Control Change Messages

An ongoing description of all operations you perform using an
externally connected foot switch or EXP pedal can be output in the
form of data called Control Change messages. These messages can
be used for various purposes, such as controlling the parameters of
an external MIDI device.
74
Receiving Control Change Messages

The RC-50 can be controlled using Control Change messages from
external MIDI devices.
You can set how the RC-50 responds to MIDI Control Change
#1, #7, and #80 with the CC#1/CC#7/CC#80 Func setting (p.
77).
You can also change the RC-50s tempo by connecting an
optional FC-200 MIDI foot controller.
Making the Settings for MIDI-Related Functions

This section describes the RC-50s MIDI-related functions. Make the
settings in accordance with how the RC-50 is to be used.
MIDI Transmit Channel
fig.08-030
This procedure sets the MIDI channel used for transmitting MIDI
messages. When set to RX, messages are transmitted over the
same channel used as the MIDI Receive Channel.
3 51
fig.08-080d
Available Settings: 116, RX
MIDI Sync
1.
Press [SYSTEM/USB] several times until the MIDI settings

screen is displayed.
fig.08-090d
fig.08-040d
2.
Press PARAMETER [
][
parameter you want to set.
You can have performances be synchronized to a MIDI sequencer or

other external MIDI device.
] to display the screen for the
fig.08-050d
(Example)
3.
Use the PATCH/VALUE dial to change the value of the

setting.
4.
5.
MIDI Receive Channel
fig.08-060d
MIDI Program Change Out
Chapter 8
This procedure sets the MIDI channel used for receiving MIDI
messages.

Synchronization settings are determined separately for each individual patch.
PATCH
Patch synchronization settings are made with
MIDI Sync (p. 50) in the patchs settings.
Although performances are normally played at
the tempo set with the RC-50, if a MIDI Start
message is received while playback of all phrasAUTO
es is stopped, the performance begins automatically with the tempo determined by the MIDI
clock message from the external MIDI device.
Performances are played at the tempo set with
the RC-50, with recording, playback, and overINTERNAL
dubbing carried out with the RC-50s controls.
Although performances are played at the tempo
set with the RC-50, the start of recording, playREMOTE
back, and stopping (only) are controlled with the
external MIDI device.
This selects whether or not MIDI Program Change messages are

output.
fig.08-110d
Available Settings: 116 (Channel 1Channel 16)
MIDI Omni Mode

When set to ON, messages are received via all MIDI channels,
regardless of the MIDI Receive Channel settings.
fig.08-070d
MIDI Control Change Out

This selects whether or not MIDI Control Change messages are
output.
fig.08-120d
75
Controlling Operations from the RC-50

Synchronizing Performances on
External Devices to the RC-50
You can play performances on external devices at the same tempo as
the RC-50s tempo (Synchronized Performance).
To Play Performances on External MIDI Devices

at the Same Tempo as the RC-50s Tempo
MIDI clock messages are output from the RC-50 at all times.Set the
external MIDI device beforehand so it is ready to receive MIDI Clock
and MIDI Start and Stop messages.
For details, refer to the owners manual that came with the device.
Transmitting Control Changes

You can transmit MIDI Control Change messages by operating the
external foot switch connected to the CTL 1,2 PEDAL jack or EXP
pedal connected to the EXP/CTL 3,4 PEDAL jack.
The following Control Change messages are transmitted by the foot
switch and EXP pedal.
Pedal
CTL 1 pedal
CTL 2 pedal
EXP pedal
CTL 3 pedal
CTL 4 pedal
*
To Transmit Start
A MIDI Start message is transmitted at the moment that recording or
playback of the current phrase begins, when all phrases had been
stopped.
This message is also transmitted when an All Start is carried out.
To Transmit Stop
A MIDI Stop message is transmitted when all of the phrases have
stopped. This is also transmitted when All Stop is in effect.
fig.08-130
Phrase 1
Playback Playback Playback Playback
Phrase 2
Playback Playback
Phrase 3
Playback Playback Playback
Start
transmitted
Stop
transmitted
Transmitting Program Changes

When patches are switched on the RC-50, a MIDI Program Change
message is transmitted to the connected external MIDI device.
You can transmit Program Change messages numbered 1 through
99,corresponding to the 99 individual patches 199.
Patch Number
1
2
3
:
99
Program Number
1
2
3
:
99
Set MIDI Program Change Out (p. 75) to ON beforehand.
Program Change messages 100128 cannot be transmitted.
Bank Select MIDI messages (Control Change #0, #32) cannot be

transmitted.
76
Controller Number
CC#80
CC#81
CC#7
Not output
Not output
Set MIDI Control Change Out (p. 75) to ON.
Controlling Operations from an External MIDI Device

Synchronizing RC-50 Performances
to the External Device
You can have the RC-50s performances be played at the same tempo
as the external devices tempo (Synchronized Performance).
Switching Patches
You can switch the RC-50s patches with Program Change messages
from external MIDI devices.
The RC-50 can receive Program Change messages numbered 1
through 99, corresponding to the 99 individual patches 199.
To Play Performances on External MIDI

Devices at the Same Tempo as the RC-50s
Tempo (Synchronized Performance)
To set Synchronized Performance for all patches, set System MIDI
Sync (p. 75) to AUTO.
To set Synchronized Performance for each patch individually, set
System MIDI Sync to PATCH and set the patchs MIDI Sync (p. 50)
setting to AUTO.
When the RC-50 is set to use Synchronized Performance, the RC-50s
patch tempos conform at all times to the tempo data (MIDI Clock)
from the external MIDI device.
However, Loop Quantize (p. 42) is enabled for use, allowing you to
record phrases with the correct measure lengths.
*
Set the external MIDI device beforehand so it is ready to transmit

MIDI Clock and MIDI Start and Stop messages. For details, refer to
the owners manual that came with the device.
To Receive Start
When the MIDI Start message is received while all phrases are
stopped, playback of the current phrase begins. At this time, any
phrase set to start simultaneously also begins playing back.
Upon reception of MIDI Start, recording or playback begins

immediately, with no recording/playback count-in (p. 40)
sound played.
Upon reception of MIDI Start, recording begins immediately,
even if Auto Recording (p. 47) is set.
Program Number
1
2
3
:
99
Patch Number
1
2
3
:
99
Program Change messages 100128 cannot be received.
Even if received, Bank Select MIDI messages (Control Change #0,

#32) are disregarded.
Controlling Other Functions

(CC#1/CC#7/CC#80 Functions)
With Control Change messages from external MIDI devices, you can
use such external MIDI devices to control functions that are difficult
to handle using the RC-50s pedals alone, making operation of the
RC-50 easier and more convenient.
System Settings and Patch Settings
fig.08-150
To Receive Stop
2,3,4 3,4 1 6
When the MIDI Stop message is received, playback of all phrases

stops
fig.08-140
Start
received
Stop
received
Phrase 1
Playback Playback Playback Playback
Phrase 2
Playback Playback Playback
Phrase 3
Playback Playback
1.
Press [CTL/EXP PEDAL] to display the pedal settings screen.
2.
Press PARAMETER [
][
] to display the CC# Function
screen for the Control Change message whose settings you
want to change.
77
Chapter 8
CC#1/CC#7/CC#80 (Control Change) functions operate in

accordance with system settings, that is, settings that are shared by
and applied the same way to all of the RC-50s functions and that
remain the same regardless of the patch selected, and patch settings,
or settings that are used to select different functions for each
individual patch. In each parameter, you select whether the system
settings or the patch settings are to be applied, giving you the
freedom to apply them as needed for any environment.
Use the following procedure to switch between system and patch
settings.
Controlling Operations from an External MIDI Device
CC#80
fig.08-160d
Available Settings
Description
Applies to both system settings and patch settings

No operation
OFF
Starts and stops playback of all Phrases 13
ALL START/STOP
simultaneously
PHRASE 1 PLY/STP Starts and stops playback of Phrase 1 (*)
3.

][

~~: SYS
~~: PAT
PHRASE 2 PLY/STP
PHRASE 3 PLY/STP
PHRASE 1 PLAY
PHRASE 2 PLAY

PHRASE 3 PLAY
(*)
Playback does not start if the phrase is blank.
Playback begins immediately, with no playback count-in sound
played.
PHRASE 1 STOP
PHRASE 2 STOP
Press PARAMETER [
][
set how you want the Control Change to be used.
PHRASE 3 STOP
5.
PHRASE 2 REVERSE
6.
PHRASE 3 REVERSE

settings.
PHRASE 1 ONESHOT
PHRASE 1 CLEAR

off
off
off
Phrase 1
Phrase 2
Phrase 3
Clears Phrase 1 (*)
PHRASE 2 CLEAR
Clears Phrase 2 (*)
4.
PHRASE 1 REVERSE
PHRASE 2 ONESHOT
PHRASE 3 ONESHOT
CC#1, CC#7
Available Settings
OFF
Description
No operation
PHRASE 1 LEVEL
PHRASE 2 LEVEL
PHRASE 3 LEVEL
PHRASE 1 PAN
PHRASE 2 PAN
PHRASE 3 PAN
PATCH LEVEL

Controls the volume level of the current
phrase
Controls the panning of the current phrase
Controls the volume level of the guide
sound
Controls the patchs volume level
PATCH TEMPO
Controls the patch tempo
CURRENT LEVEL
CURRENT PAN
GUIDE LEVEL
Clears Phrase 3 (*)

PHRASE 3 CLEAR
Turns reverse playback of the current
CURRENT REVERSE
phrase on and off
CURRENT ONE SHOT
the current phrase
Clears the current phrase (*)
CURRENT CLEAR
Undo/Redo
UNDO/REDO
PATCH TEMPO (TAP) Tap input for patch tempo
Switches Overdubbing mode switching
OVERDUB MODE INC sequence to OVERDUB REPLACE
MOMENTARY PUNCH-IN
GUIDE START/STOP Starts and stops the guide
Switches the Play mode (Single/Multi)
PLAY MODE
* All phrases stop when the mode is switched
during recording, playback, or overdubbing.
Applies to system settings only
PATCH NUMBER INC Switches to the next higher patch number
PATCH NUMBER DEC Switches to the next lower patch number
Writes the patch
PATCH WRITE
* When pressing a pedal twice, Patch Write is
executed.
78
Chapter 9
Connecting to Computers
Chapter 9 Connecting to Computers
79
Before Using USB

The RC-50 is equipped with a USB connector, and connecting the
RC-50 to a computer with a USB cable enables you to carry out the
following operations.
Organization of the RC-50s Data

When the RC-50 is connected to a computer via USB, BOSS_RC-50
Backup
Save the RC-50s user data to the computer
Recover
Return data saved to a computer back to the RC-50.
(or the Removable Disk (*:) icon) appears in My Computer in

Windows, or on the desktop with Macintosh OS.
The ROLAND folder resides within BOSS_RC-50, with the RC50s data saved according to the hierarchy shown below.
fig.09-020
ROLAND Folder
DATA Folder
Export
PATCH.RC5
Copy the RC-50s phrase data to computers as WAV files.
Patch Parameter File
SYSTEM.RC5
Import
Load WAV files on computers to the RC-50.
Compatible OSs
Windows
Windows Me/2000/XP
Macintosh
Mac OS 9.1.x/9.2.x
Mac OS X
System Settings File
WAVE Folder
001_1.WAV
Patch Number 1
Phrase 1 WAV File
001_2.WAV
Patch Number 1
Phrase 2 WAV File
001_3.WAV
Patch Number 1
Phrase 3 WAV File
002_1.WAV
Drivers
The RC-50 uses the OSs standard driver, which is installed
automatically when the RC-50 and computer are connected via USB.
When Using Windows XP/Windows 2000

Log on to Windows with any of the following user names.
Administrator or other user name in the Administrators group.
User name whose account category is that of computer
administrator.
Note that a proper USB connection cannot be achieved with user
names other than the above.
For more details, consult the system administrator for the computer
you are using.
Patch Number 2
Phrase 1 WAV File
002_2.WAV
Patch Number 2
Phrase 2 WAV File
099_3.WAV
Patch Number 99
Phrase 3 WAV File
All Recorder Phrase Data
When the RC-50 performs Recover/Import, the patch data will

be overwritten regardless of the setting of Preset Protect (p. 69).
Be sure not to write corrupt files to PATCH.RC5 or
SYSTEM.RC5.
Do not delete or change the folder names of the ROLAND
folder, DATA folder, or WAVE folder.
Do not transfer any files to the RC-50 other than those in the
ROLAND folder. Although files from other folders are
ignored by the RC-50, they reduce the amount of space
available for saving data.
80
Before Using USB
About WAV Files Handled

by the RC-50
You can save patch phrases to computers as WAV files as well as
import files from computers to the RC-50. This makes it convenient
when you want to use phrases created with the RC-50 in putting
together songs using sequencer software or when importing phrases
with effects to the RC-50.
The following describes the WAV file format that can be used by the
RC-50.
Sampling Rate
44.1 KHz
Quantization Bit Rate
16 bit
Number of Channels
Mono or Stereo
Compression Format
No compression
Patch Numbers:
(1)
Three-digit number (001-099)
(2)
Underscore (underline) character
Phrase Numbers:
(3)
Single-digit number (1, 2, or 3)
(4)
Dot (period) character
(5)
The uppercase letters WAV
File Names
001_1.WAV
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
For example, if the song is in 4/4 time, is 2 measures long, and runs
4.8 seconds, the tempo is calculated as follows:
4/4 x 4 x 2 x 60 / 4.8 = 100
Once you know the tempo, use the procedure described in
Confirming and Setting the Original Tempo (p. 37) to set the
original tempo.
Connecting to the Computer

Use a USB cable to connect the USB connector on the computer to the
RC-50s USB connector.
When connecting the USB cable, remove the cover attached to

the USB connector. Leave the cover attached when not using the
USB connector.
fig.09-010
After importing a WAV file to the RC-50, confirm in the Play

screen that the phrase can be played back normally.
Content that can be saved to the RC-50 includes all patches,
phrases, and system settings up to a maximum of 250 MB. WAV
files in excess of this size cannot be imported to the RC-50.
You cannot import a short WAV file at the minimum recording
time (about 1.5 seconds).
Computer
The RC-50 includes no sequencer software.
Determining the Original Tempo of a

Phrase Created from an Imported WAV File
If you know the songs tempo:
Do not perform the following operations when the RC-50 and the
computer are enabled for data transfers or while data is being
transmitted. Doing so may cause the computer to fail to respond.It
can also result in corruption of the RC-50s data.
Removing the USB cable
Suspending the computer (placing it in standby), placing it in
hibernation, restarting, or shutting down
Set that songs tempo to the original tempo.

Turning off the power to the RC-50
If you know the song length (in seconds), time

signature, and number of measures:
If you have determined the songs length (time), time signature, and
number of measures by playing back the WAV file on your
computer or other device, you can then calculate the original tempo
as shown below.
Time signature (Numerator/Denominator) x 4 x Number of
Measures x 60 Total Song Length (Seconds) = Tempo
81
Chapter 9
When you import a WAV file into the RC-50, the original tempo set
for the import-destination phrase is not changed.
Performing while synchronizing to the tempos of phrases created by
importing commercially available loops and other such material
requires proper setting of the phrases original tempos.
You can use the following procedure to check the original tempo.
Notes on Using USB
With Windows
Backup and Recovery of the
RC-50s Data
5.
Execute the backup or recover.
If backing up:
Copy the ROLAND folder to any desired folder on the
computer.
You can create a new folder to use as the backup folder.
When the RC-50 performs Recover, the patch data will be

overwritten regardless of the setting of Preset Protect (p. 69).
If recovering:
1)
Delete the RC-50s ROLAND folder.
2)
Copy the ROLAND folder on the computer to the

BOSS_RC-50 icon.
The supplied CD includes a ROLAND folder containing the

factory default data.
6.
Recovering data by merely copying this folder to the RC-50
as is overwrites the RC-50s ROLAND folder, returning
the unit to its original factory settings.
Any data for original phrases already saved to this folder is
cleared. Recover only the data required to the RC-50.
End the USB connection.

1)
All windows on the computer close.
2)
Click the Task tray icon, then click the message displayed
that indicates use of the drive (*:) is to be stopped.
fig.09-060
Carry out the following procedure only with all performances stopped.
1.
Connect the computer and the RC-50 with a USB cable.
2.
Press [SYSTEM/USB] several times until the USB screen is

displayed.
Task bar
3)
Task tray
Close the Safe to Remove Hardware dialog.
End the USB connection; the RC-50s display changes to the

following.
fig.09-030d
fig.09-061d
3.
*
Press [WRITE].
Stop PLAY/REC! is displayed if you press [WRITE] while a phrase
or guide is playing. If this occurs, stop the performance of the phrase or
guide, then press [WRITE] again.
If you have any unsaved data (phrase or patch settings), the message
Cancel rec data? appears.
If you press [WRITE], any data currently being worked on in this
operation is deleted, and the procedure continues using the data as it
was before the current operation was begun. To cancel the procedure,
press [EXIT].
When the connection to the computer is completed, the message
Copy data files. appears.
The BOSS_RC-50 icon (or Removable Disk (*:) icon)
appears in the My Computer.
fig.09-040
(Ex.)
BOSS_RC-50
4.
82
Removable Disk (*:)
Open the BOSS_RC-50 icon (or the Removable Disk (*:)

icon) located in My Computer.
The ROLAND folder is displayed.
7.
Press [EXIT].
The Play screen soon reappears in the display.
If the message Disconnect, OK? appears, press [EXIT] and
end the USB connection.
In this state, the USB cable can be safely disconnected from the
RC-50 and computer.
With Windows
Importing and Exporting

WAV Files
6.
If exporting:
When the RC-50 performs Import, the patch data will be

The WAV files on the CD cannot be imported with their

file names left unaltered. Change the file names after
referring to p. 81.
1.
2.
Select the WAV file you want to export.
2)
Copy the selected WAV file to the desired folder on the

computer.
1)
Open the folder on the computer containing the WAV files,

then select the WAV file you want to import.
2)
Refer to p. 81, then change the file name.
3)
Copy the selected WAV file to the WAVE folder on the

RC-50.
If the RC-50s WAVE folder contains a WAV file with the

same name as the one being imported (i.e., phrase in the importdestination patch), a file overwrite confirmation dialog
appears. If you want to proceed and overwrite the file, click
[OK]. If you want to keep the existing file instead of overwriting
it, click [Cancel].
In this case, either save the required WAV file to the computer
(export), or change the file name and repeat the procedure from
Step 6.
With importing, the beat cannot be changed after the data is

imported. If you do want to change the beat, set the beat
beforehand using the procedure described on p. 46.
1)
If importing:
The included CD contains WAV files with sample phrases that

can be used by the RC-50.
Execute the export or import.
7.

displayed.

1)
2)
Click the Task tray icon, then click the message displayed
that indicates use of the drive (*:) is to be stopped.
fig.09-030d
fig.09-060
3.
*
Press [WRITE].
Task bar

3)
fig.09-061
8.
The BOSS_RC-50 icon (or Removable Disk (*:) icon)

appears in the My Computer.
fig.09-040
(Ex.)
BOSS_RC-50
4.

RC-50 and computer.
Removable Disk (*:)
Open the BOSS_RC-50 icon (or the Removable Disk (*:)

icon) located in My Computer.
5.
Press [EXIT].
Double-click the ROLAND folder, then double-click the
Importing WAV files to three phrases and playing them back as

is may result in excessive volume levels which can cause the
sound to distort.
After importing, adjust the volume of each phrase with the
WAVE folder.
The WAV files are displayed.
83
Chapter 9

Close the Safe to Remove Hardware dialog.

following.
press [EXIT].
Task tray
With Macintosh
Backup and Recovery of the
RC-50s Data
5.
Execute the backup or recover.
If backing up:
Copy the ROLAND folder to any desired folder on the
computer.
You can create a new folder to use as the backup folder.
When the RC-50 performs Recover, the patch data will be

If recovering:
The supplied CD includes a ROLAND folder containing the

6.
Recovering data by merely copying this folder to the RC-50
as is overwrites the RC-50s ROLAND folder, returning
the unit to its original factory settings.
Any data for original phrases already saved to this folder is
cleared. Recover only the data required to the RC-50.
1)
Delete the RC-50s ROLAND folder.
2)
Copy the ROLAND folder on the computer to the

BOSS_RC-50 icon.

1)
2)
Drag the BOSS_RC-50 icon on the computers desktop

into the Trash.

following.
fig.09-061d
1.
2.

displayed.
fig.09-030d
7.
Press [EXIT].
RC-50 and computer.
3.
Press [WRITE].

press [EXIT].
The BOSS_RC-50 icon appears on the computers screen.
fig.09-100
(Ex.)
BOSS_RC-50
4.
84
Double-click the BOSS_RC-50 icon.

With Macintosh
Importing and Exporting

WAV Files
5.
WAVE folder.
The WAV files are displayed.
6.
The included CD contains WAV files with sample phrases that

can be used by the RC-50.

displayed.
7.
fig.09-030d
3.
*
Select the WAV file you want to export.
2)
Copy the selected WAV file to the desired folder on the

computer.
1)
Open the folder on the computer containing the WAV files,

then select the WAV file you want to import.
2)
Refer to p. 81, then change the file name.
3)
Copy the selected WAV file to the WAVE folder on the

RC-50.
If the RC-50s WAVE folder contains a WAV file with the

same name as the one being imported (i.e., phrase in the importdestination patch), a file overwrite confirmation dialog
appears. If you want to proceed and overwrite the file, click
[OK]. If you want to keep the existing file instead of overwriting
it, click [Cancel].
In this case, either save the required WAV file to the computer
(export), or change the file name and repeat the procedure from
Step 6.
With importing, the beat cannot be changed after the data is

imported. If you do want to change the beat, set the beat
beforehand using the procedure described on p. 46.
2.
1)
If importing:
The WAV files on the CD cannot be imported with their

file names left unaltered. Change the file names after
referring to p. 81.
1.
Execute the export or import.
If exporting:
When the RC-50 performs Import, the patch data will be

Double-click the ROLAND folder, then double-click the

1)
2)
Drag the BOSS_RC-50 icon on the computers desktop

into the Trash.
Press [WRITE].

following.
fig.09-061d
press [EXIT].
Press [EXIT].
RC-50 and computer.
The BOSS_RC-50 icon appears on the computers screen.

fig.09-100
(Ex.)
BOSS_RC-50
4.
Importing WAV files to three phrases and playing them back as

is may result in excessive volume levels which can cause the
sound to distort.
After importing, adjust the volume of each phrase with the
Double-click the BOSS_RC-50 icon.

85
Chapter 9

8.
M E M O
86
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
87
Error Messages
When errors in operation occur or when operations cannot be executed properly, an error message will appear in the display.
Take the corrective measures in accordance with the message displayed.
fig.10-001d
fig.10-080d
[WRITE] was pressed while playback of the Guide was in

progress.
Stop playback of the Guide, then press [WRITE].
[WRITE] was pressed while playback, recording, or
overdubbing of a phrase was in progress.
Stop playback, recording, or overdubbing of the phrase, then
press [WRITE].
MIDI messages could not be properly received.

Check to make sure that no corrupt MIDI messages are being
transmitted.
Reduce the number or size of MIDI messages transmitted to the
RC-50.
fig.10-010d
fig.10-090d
The RC-50 could not process the data completely.

Lower the performance tempo.
Save the current content to a patch.
Reduce the number of adjustments or changes made with the
RC-50s knobs and pedals.
Reduce the number or size of MIDI messages transmitted to the
RC-50.
There is a problem with the MIDI cable connection.

Check to make sure the cable has not been disconnected and
that there is no short in the cable.
fig.10-020d
fig.10-002d
An excessive volume of messages were received and could not

be processed properly.
fig.10-030d
No available recording time remains. You cannot proceed

with any further recording or overdubbing.
First initialize any unneeded patches or clear unneeded phrases
(p. 32), then carry out the Patch Write procedure (p. 54).
fig.10-060d
Corrupt files may have been written to the RC-50 while

connected via USB (e.g., during Recover or Import).
Execute Factory Reset (p. 95) to restore the RC-50 to its factory
default condition.
fig.10-040d
The phrase cannot be played back correctly since it is playing

at a tempo significantly faster than the tempo at which it was
recorded.
Adjust the tempo.
A problem has occurred with the content of the RC-50s

memory.
Consult your Roland dealer or local Roland Service.
fig.10-070d
fig.10-050d
88
The phrase cannot be played back correctly since it is playing

at a tempo significantly slower than the tempo at which it was
recorded.
Adjust the tempo.
A problem has occurred in the system.

Consult your Roland dealer or local Roland Service.
Correspondence Between the Indicators and Operational Status

If, while using the RC-50, you find that you are unaware of the current operating status, refer to the table below and determine the current status
by viewing the indicators.
Left Display
[TAP TEMPO]
[PLAY MODE]
[LOOP SYNC]
REVERSE
PHRASE 1/2/3
ONE SHOT
GUIDE [START/STOP]
[AUTO REC]
PEAK
LOOP QUANTIZE
OVERDUB
OVERDUB MODE
REPLACE
MOMENTARY
PUNCH-IN
Indicates current patch number.
Numbers
flashing
Indicates that a patch has been selected in advance to be switched.
Flashing
Flashes in time with the current patchs patch tempo. Flashes red on the downbeat
of the measure, green on other beats.
When the RC-50 is in Patch Select mode (p. 33), or a patch has been selected in advance to be switched, the indicator flashes at the tempo of patch to which you are
switching.
Off
Play mode (p. 28) is set to Single mode.
Lit
Play mode (p. 28) is set to Multi mode.
Flashing
When a patch has been selected in advance to be switched, this indicates that the
Play mode in the patch to which you are switching is set to Multi mode.
Off
Loop Sync (p. 28) is set to OFF.
Lit
Loop Sync (p. 28) is set to ON.
Flashing
When a patch has been selected in advance to be switched, this indicates that Loop
Sync (p. 28) in the patch to which you are switching is set to ON.
Off
Reverse (p. 52) in the respective phrase is set to OFF.
Lit
Reverse (p. 52) in the respective phrase is set to ON.
Flashing
When a patch has been selected in advance to be switched, this indicates that Reverse (p. 52) in the phrases for the patch to which you are switching are set to ON.
Off
The phrase is set to LOOP (p. 52).
Lit
The respective phrase is set to ONE SHOT (p. 52).
Flashing
phrases for the patch to which you are switching are set to ONE SHOT (p. 52).
Off
The guide (p. 39) is stopped.
Lit
The guide (p. 39) is playing.
Flashing
phrases for the patch to which you are switching are set to ONE SHOT (p. 52).
Off
Auto Recording (p. 47) is set to OFF.
Lit
Auto Recording (p. 47) is set to ON.
Flashing
When a patch has been selected in advance to be switched, this indicates that Auto
Recording (p. 47) in the patch to which you are switching is set to ON.
Off
Input level is appropriate, or sound is muted.
Lit
Sound input level is too high.
Off
Loop Quantize (p. 42) is disabled.
Lit
Loop Quantize (p. 42) is enabled.
Flashing
When a patch has been selected in advance to be switched, this indicates that Loop
Quantize (p. 42) in the patch to which you are switching is enabled.
Off
Overdubbing mode (p. 47) is not set to OVERDUB.
Lit
Overdubbing mode (p. 47) is set to OVERDUB.
Flashing
When a patch has been selected in advance to be switched, this indicates that Overdubbing mode (p. 47) in the patch to which you are switching is set to OVERDUB.
Off
Overdubbing mode (p. 47) is not set to REPLACE.
Lit
Overdubbing mode (p. 47) is set to REPLACE.
Flashing
When a patch has been selected in advance to be switched, this indicates that Overdubbing mode (p. 47) in the patch to which you are switching is set to REPLACE.
Off
Overdubbing mode (p. 47) is not set to MOMENTARY PUNCH-IN.
Lit
Overdubbing mode (p. 47) is set to MOMENTARY PUNCH-IN.
Flashing
When a patch has been selected in advance to be switched, this indicates that Overdubbing mode (p. 47) in the patch to which you are switching is set to MOMENTARY PUNCH-IN.
89
TroubleShooting
OVERDUB MODE
Numbers lit
Correspondence Between the Indicators and Operational Status
REC/PLAY/OVERDUB Pedal
Lit (Red)
Current phrase is being recorded.
Lit (Green)
Current phrase is being played back.
Lit (Orange)
Current phrase is being overdubbed.
Flashing (Red)
Current phrase is enabled for recording.
Flashing (Green) Current phrase is enabled for playback.

Flashing
Rapidly (Red)
Current phrase is enabled for recording and on standby for Auto Recording (p. 47).
Flashing
The current phrase is fading in or out, or the RC-50 is waiting for the end of a loop
Rapidly (green) with Stop Mode (p. 53) set to LOOP END.
Off
The TEMPO pedal function (p. 70) is assigned to a function other than PATCH
TEMPO (TAP), or the RC-50 is in Patch Select mode (p. 33).
Flashing
Flashes in time with the current patchs patch tempo. Flashes red on the downbeat
of the measure, green on other beats.
Off
Indicates redo cannot be executed. Also, indicates that a function other than Undo/
Redo is assigned.
On
Indicates redo can be executed.
Off
Not current phrase.
On
Current phrase.
Flashing
When a patch has been selected in advance to be switched, and when a phrase is selected and the RC-50 is set in advance to switch to the current phrase, this indicates
that the current phrase will be active from that point.
Off
Not current phrase, and phrase is stopped.
Lit (Red)
Current phrase, which is currently recording.
Lit (Green)
Phrase is being played back.
Lit (Orange)
Current phrase, which is currently being overdubbed.
TEMPO Pedal
UNDO/REDO Pedal
Orange Indicator
Indicates in the following cases that recording of the phrase is to begin:

When phrase is current phrase, and it is stopped
PHRASE 1/2/3
Pedal
Flashing (Red)
Green/Red
Indicators
When a patch is selected and advance patch switching is set (status of patch to
which you are switching)
When a patch is selected and advance switching to the current phrase is set.
Flashing
(Green)
Indicates in the following cases that playback of the phrase is to begin:

When phrase is current phrase, and it is stopped
When Simul-Start is set to ON in the phrase, and all phrases are stopped
When a patch is selected and advance patch switching is set
When a patch is selected and advance switching to the current phrase is set.
Flashing
Rapidly (Red)
Indicates Auto Recording (p. 47) standby when the current phrase is enabled for recording and all phrases are stopped.
Flashing
The phrase is fading in or out, or the RC-50 is waiting for the end of a loop with Stop
Rapidly (Green) Mode (p. 53) set to LOOP END.
90
Troubleshooting
If no sound is being output or if you think the RC-50 is not operating
as it should, first check the following points. If the information below
does not lead to a resolution of the problem, contact your dealer or
the nearest Roland Service Center.
Problems with Sound
Problems with Operation

Patches not switching
No sound/low volume
Are the connection cables shorted?

Try substituting with other connection cables.
Is the RC-50 properly connected to other devices?

Confirm the connections to other devices (p. 16).
Is the power to the connected amp or mixer not turned on, or

is the volume turned down?
Confirm the settings for connected devices.
Recording/overdubbing stops before finishing
Is there insufficient memory remaining?

If memory is insufficient, initialize any unneeded patches (p. 44)
before recording or overdubbing.
Is Loop Sync set to ON in Multi mode?

When recording with Loop Sync set to ON, once the end of the
longest phrase is reached, the RC-50 automatically switches to
overdubbing.
Is the PHRASE LEVEL knob or MASTER LEVEL knob turned

down?
Adjust knobs to the suitable positions (p. 19).
Is the patch level (p. 49) turned down?

Adjust the patch level.
Confirm that the patch is not such that the patch level is
adjusted by an EXP pedal or other such controller. Setting the
Functions for the EXP pedal (p. 72).
Are input, phrases, and the guide output all set correctly?
Confirm the output settings.
Setting the Output for the Sounds Being Input (Input Output
Select) (p. 50)
Switching the Output for the Guide Sound (Guide Output
Select) (p. 40)
Switching the Output for the Phrase Sounds (Output Select)
(p. 53)
Confirm that the same output is not set for use by all patches.
Using the Same Audio Outputs for All Patches (Input/Phrase
1, 2, 3/Guide Output Select) (p. 69)
Has anything been recorded to the phrases?

In Play mode (p. 28), check the right display to confirm whether
or not any material has been recorded.
Recording starts immediately when Auto Start

is set to ON
Is Input Output Select set correctly?

Confirm the output setting.
Setting the Output for the Sounds Being Input (Input Output
Select) (p. 50)
Low volume from device connected to AUX/

MIC/INST
Are you using a connection cable that introduces or adds

resistance?
Use a cable that does not add resistance (such as one from the
Roland PCS Series).
Is the phrase set to ONE SHOT (p. 52)?

You cannot overdub to phrases set to ONE SHOT. If you want
to overdub, change the ONE SHOT setting to LOOP.
Playback tempo not changing
Is recording or overdubbing in progress?

You cannot change the tempo during recording or overdubbing.
Change the tempo while the performance is stopped or being
played back.
Is Tempo Sync set to ON in the phrase?

When Tempo Sync is not set to ON in a phrase, the playback
speed does not change even if the patch tempo is changed. To
match the playback speed to the patch tempo, set the phrases
Tempo Sync setting to ON.
Synchronizing Playback of the Phrase to the Patch Tempo
(Tempo Sync) (p. 53)
MIDI messages not being transmitted/received
Could there be a short in the MIDI cable?

Try replacing the MIDI cable.
Is the external MIDI device properly connected?

Check the connections to the external MIDI device.
Are the MIDI channels matched to those of the external MIDI

device?
Confirm that both devices are set to the same MIDI channels.
(p. 75)
If transmitting from the RC-50, have you made the necessary

settings for transmission?
Check the Program Change Message Transmit ON/OFF (p. 75)
and Control Change Message Transmit ON/OFF (p. 75)
settings.
91
TroubleShooting
Are the AUX, MIC, and INST LEVEL knobs turned down?
Adjust knobs to the suitable positions (p. 19).
If large amounts of noise are being introduced by distortion

effects or other effects processors connected to the input jack, it
may be that recording is being triggered by that noise. Reduce
the noise, for example by lowering the distortion level.
Unable to overdub
Unable to hear sounds from device connected

to AUX/MIC/INST
Is something other than the Play screen appearing in the display?

With the RC-50, you cannot switch patches while any screen
other than the Play screen is displayed. Press [EXIT] to return to
the Play screen (p. 18).
Troubleshooting
Problems with USB

Unable to communicate with computer
Is the USB cable properly connected?

Check the connection.
Is the OS compatible with the RC-50?

Confirm the OS used by the computer. (p. 80)
Unable to import WAV file
92
Are the file name and format of the WAV file correct?
Confirm the file name and format of the WAV file. (p. 81)
Appendices
Appendices
93
About MIDI
MIDI is an acronym for Musical Instrument Digital Interface, and is
a world-wide standard for allowing electronic musical equipment to
communicate by transmitting messages such as performance
information and sound selections. Any MIDI equipped device is able
to transmit applicable types of data to another MIDI equipped
device, even if the two devices are different models or were made by
different manufacturers.
In MIDI, performance information such as playing a key or pressing
a pedal are transmitted as MIDI Messages.
How MIDI messages are

transmitted and received
First, we will explain briefly how MIDI messages are transmitted
and received.
MIDI connectors
The following types of connector are used to convey MIDI messages.
MIDI cables are connected to these connectors as needed.
This connector receives messages
from another MIDI device.
This connector transmits messagMIDI OUT
es from this device.
This connector re-transmits the
MIDI
messages that were received at
THRU
MIDI IN.
MIDI IN
The RC-50 features both MIDI IN and MIDI OUT connectors.
MIDI channels
MIDI is able to independently control more than one MIDI device
over a single MIDI cable. This is possible because of the concept of
MIDI channels.
The idea of MIDI channels is somewhat similar to the idea of
television channels. By changing channels on a television set, you
can view a variety of programs. This is because the information of a
particular channel is received when the channels of the transmitter
and receiver match.
fig.11-020
Broadcasting
Station A
T.V. information from many different broadcasting station is

sent through an antenna.
Broadcasting
Station B
Broadcasting
Station C
Select the channel of the broadcasting

station you wish to watch
MIDI has sixteen channels 116, and MIDI messages will be received
by the instrument (the receiving device) whose channel matches the
channel of the transmitter.
If omni mode is on, data of all MIDI channels will be received
regardless of the MIDI channel setting. If you do not need to control
a specific MIDI channel, you may set Omni On.
Channel messages
These messages are used to convey performance information.
Normally these messages perform most of the control. The way in
which a receiving device will react to each type of MIDI message will
be determined by the settings of the receiving device.
Program change messages

These messages are generally used to select sounds, and include a
program change number from 1 to 128 which specifies the desired
sound. The RC-50 also allows you to select any of the 99 different
patch numbers.
Control change messages

These messages are used to enhance the expressiveness of a
performance. Each message includes a controller number, and the
settings of the receiving device will determine what aspect of the
sound will be affected by control change messages of a given
controller number. With the RC-50, you can control specified
functions with the CC#1/CC#7/CC#80 functions.
System messages
System messages include exclusive messages, messages used for
synchronization, and messages used to keep a MIDI system running
correctly. The RC-50 handles the following types of messages.
Realtime Messages
These messages are used for synchronization. They include Clock
messages used to synchronize the tempo, Start and Stop messages to
start/stop playback, and Continue (which re-starts playback from
where it was last stopped).
The RC-50 handles Start (FA) and Stop (FC) messages.
In addition, Realtime messages also include Active Sensing
messages, which are used to monitor things such as whether or not
any MIDI cables have been disconnected; the RC-50 supports the use
of these messages.
About the MIDI Implementation Chart

MIDI allows a variety of messages to be exchanged between
instruments, but it is not necessarily the case that all types of
message can be exchanged between any two MIDI devices. Two
devices can communicate only if they both use the types of messages
that they have in common.
Thus, every owners manual for a MIDI device includes a MIDI
Implementation Chart. This chart shows the types of message that
the device is able to transmit and receive. By comparing the MIDI
implementation charts of two devices, you can tell at a glance which
messages they will be able to exchange. Since the charts are always
of a uniform size, you can simply place the two charts side by side.
fig.11-030
Fold here
Main types of MIDI message

used by the RC-50
MIDI includes many types of MIDI messages that can convey a
variety of information. MIDI messages can be broadly divided into
two types; messages that are handled separately by MIDI channel
(channel messages), and messages that are handled without
reference to a MIDI channel (system messages).
94
MIDI Device A
Function
MIDI Device B
Transmit
Recognized
Remarks
Restoring the Factory Settings (Factory Reset)

Restoring the RC-50s system settings (System parameters) to their
original factory default settings is referred to as Factory Reset.
In addition to restoring the system settings to the original factory
settings, you can also initialize all of the patches (INIT PATCH).
fig.11-040
3 3
1.
Turn off the power.
2.
While holding down [PLAY MODE] and [LOOP SYNC], turn

on the power.
The Factory Reset range setting screen appears in the display.
fig.11-050d
*
3.
To cancel Factory Reset, press [EXIT].

Press PARAMETER [
][
] to move the cursor, and
rotate the PATCH/VALUE dial to specify the range of settings
you want to restore to factory settings.

System parameters
SYSTEM
* Does not include the Preset Protect (p. 69)
settings.
All
patches (all phrase data deleted)
PATCH
Selecting PATCH results in a loss of all patch content.

*
When Preset Protect (p. 69) is set to ON, the data in Patch Numbers
15 is left intact.
4.
If you want to proceed with the factory reset, press [ENTER].

When SYSTEM is selected, the System Parameters are returned
to their original factory settings.
When PATCH is selected, all of the patches are initialized.
Once the Factory Reset is completed, the Play screen returns to
the display.
For more on the factory default settings for each parameter,

refer to the Parameter List (p. 96).
Appendices
The included CD contains the ROLAND folder with the

If you want to restore the factory default patches and phrases,
recover the data as described in Chapter 9 Connecting to
Computers (p. 79).
95
Parameter List
System Parameters
Name
Available Settings
Factory Default Setting

(Initial Value)
LCD Contrast
116
16
Patch Extent
Patch Extent
Start: 199
End: 199
Start: 1
End: 99
Knob Mode
Knob Mode
IMMEDIATE, CURRENT SETTING,

KNOB POSITION
IMMEDIATE
Auto Rec Trigger
Auto Recording Trigger Level
0100
50
REC Pdl Act
REC Pedal Action
REC PLAY, REC OVERDUB
REC PLAY
Input Out
Input Output Select
PATCH, MAIN, SUB, MAIN+SUB,

MUTE
PATCH
Phrase1, 2, 3 Out
Phrase 1, 2, 3 Output Select
PATCH, MAIN, SUB, MAIN+SUB
PATCH
Guide Out
Guide Output Select
PATCH, MAIN, SUB, MAIN+SUB
PATCH
PresetProtct
Preset Protect
OFF, ON
ON
MIDI Rx Ch
MIDI Receive Channel
116
MIDI Omni
MIDI Omni Mode
OFF, ON
ON
MIDI Tx Ch
MIDI Transmit Channel
116, RX
RX
MIDI Sync
MIDI Sync
PATCH, AUTO, INTERNAL,

REMOTE
PATCH
MIDI PC Out
MIDI Program Change Out
OFF, ON
ON
MIDI CC Out
MIDI Control Change Out
OFF, ON
ON
TEMPO Func: SYS
TEMPO Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
PATCH TEMPO (TAP)
UNDO Func: SYS
UNDO/REDO Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
UNDO/REDO
CTL1 Func: SYS
CTL1 Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
GUIDE START/STOP
CTL2 Func: SYS
CTL2 Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
ALL START/STOP
CTL3 Func: SYS
CTL3 Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
CURRENT CLEAR
CTL4 Func: SYS
CTL4 Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
OVERDUB MODE INC
EXP Func: SYS
EXP Pedal Function
Refer to p. 72
PATCH LEVEL
EXP Level Min: SYS
EXP Pedal Min Level
0200
EXP Level Max: SYS
EXP Pedal Max Level
0200
100
EXP Tempo Min: SYS
EXP Pedal Tempo Min
40.0250.0
40.0
EXP Tempo Max: SYS
EXP Pedal Tempo Min
40.0250.0
250.0
CC#1 Func: SYS
CC#1 Function
Refer to p. 78
OFF
CC#7 Func: SYS
CC#7 Function
Refer to p. 78
OFF
CC#80 Func: SYS
CC#80 Function
Refer to p. 78
OFF
Displayed
SYSTEM
LCD Contrast
MIDI
PEDAL
96
Parameter List
Patch Parameters
Name
Available Settings

(Initial Value)
Patch Name
Max. 16 characters
INIT PATCH
Level
Patch Level
0200
100
PhraseChng
Phrase Change Mode
IMMEDIATE, LOOP END
IMMEDIATE
Fade In Time
Fade In Time
0100
50
Fade Out Time
Fade Out Time
0100
50
SimulStart
Simul Start
OFF, ON
1: OFF, 2: OFF, 3: OFF
Input Out
Input Output select
MAIN, SUB, MAIN+SUB
MAIN+SUB
MIDI Sync
MIDI Sync
AUTO, INTERNAL, REMOTE
AUTO
Current Phrase
Current Phrase
Phrase 1/2/3
Phrase 1
Play Mode
SINGLE, MULTI
MULTI
Loop Sync
OFF, ON
ON
Overdubbing Mode
OVERDUB, REPLACE,
MOMENTARY PUNCH-IN
OVERDUB
AUX Center Cancel
AUX Center Cancel
OFF, ON
OFF
AUX & MIC Flat Amp
AUX & Mic Flat Amp Simulate
OFF, ON
OFF
Rec Mode
Recording Mode
STEREO, MONO
STEREO
Patch Tempo
40.0250.0
120
Auto Recording
OFF, ON
OFF
Pattern
Guide Pattern
Refer to p. 41
Simple Beat 1
Beat
Beat
2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 7/4, 5/8, 6/8,

7/8, 8/8, 9/8, 10/8, 11/8, 12/8, 13/8,
14/8, 15/8
4/4
Rec Count
Recording Count In
OFF, 1 MEAS
OFF
Play Count
Playback Count In
OFF, 1 MEAS
OFF
Level
Guide Level
OFF, 2200
100
Output
Guide Output Select
MAIN, SUB, MAIN+SUB
MAIN+SUB
TEMPO Func: PAT
TEMPO Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
PATCH TEMPO (TAP)
UNDO Func: PAT
UNDO/REDO Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
UNDO/REDO
CTL1 Func: PAT
CTL1 Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
GUIDE START/STOP
CTL2 Func: PAT
CTL2 Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
ALL START/STOP
CTL3 Func: PAT
CTL3 Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
CURRENT CLEAR
CTL4 Func: PAT
CTL4 Pedal Function
Refer to p. 71
OVERDUB MODE INC
EXP Func: PAT
EXP Pedal Function
Refer to p. 72
PATCH LEVEL
EXP Level Min: PAT
EXP Pedal Min Level
0200
Displayed
NAME
Patch Name
COMMON
PLAY MODE
Play Mode
LOOP SYNC
Loop Sync
OVERDUB MODE
Overdub Mode
INPUT MODE
TEMPO
Tempo
AUTO REC
Auto Rec
GUIDE
PEDAL
Appendices
97
Parameter List
Displayed
Name
Available Settings

(Initial Value)
EXP Level Max: PAT
EXP Pedal Max Level
0200
100
EXP Tempo Min: PAT
EXP Pedal Tempo
Min 40.0250.0
40.0
EXP Tempo Max: PAT
EXP Pedal Tempo
Max 40.0250.0
250.0
CC#1 Func: PAT
CC#1 Function
Refer to p. 78
OFF
CC#7 Func: PAT
CC#7 Function
Refer to p. 78
OFF
CC#80 Func: PAT
CC#80 Function
Refer to p. 78
OFF
One Shot
One Shot
LOOP, ONE SHOT
LOOP
Reverse
Reverse
OFF, ON
OFF
Start
Start Mode
IMMEDIATE, FADE IN
IMMEDIATE
Stop
Stop Mode
IMMEDIATE, FADE OUT, LOOP END
IMMEDIATE
Level
Phrase Level
0200
100
Pan
Pan
L50CENTERR50
CENTER
Tempo Sync
Tempo Sync
OFF, ON
ON
Original Tempo
Original Tempo
40.0250.0
120.0
Output
Output Select
MAIN, SUB, MAIN+SUB
MAIN+SUB
PHRASE 13
98
MIDI Implementation Chart
Date: Oct. 11, 2005
LOOP STATION
Model RC-50
Transmitted
Function...
Recognized
Version: 1.00
Remarks
Basic
Channel
Default
Changed
116
116
116
116
Memorized
Default
Messages
Altered
X
X
**************
OMNI ON/OFF
X
X
Memorized
Mode
Note
Number :
True Voice
X
**************
X
**************
Velocity
Note ON
Note OFF
X
X
X
X
After
Touch
Key's
Ch's
X
X
X
X
Pitch Bend
1
7
80
81
X
O
O
O
*1
*2
*3
O
O
O
X
Control
Change
Prog
Change
: True #
System Exclusive
O
098
O
098
X
X
X
X
System
Common
: Song Pos
: Song Sel
: Tune
X
X
X
System
Real Time
: Clock
: Command
O
O
Aux
Message
: All sound off

: Local ON/OFF
: All Notes OFF
: Active Sense
: Reset
X
X
X
O
X
Notes
*4
O
O
Program Number
199
*5
X
X
X
O
X
Mode 1 : OMNI ON, POLY
Mode 2 : OMNI ON, MONO
O : Yes
Mode 3 : OMNI OFF, POLY
Mode 4 : OMNI OFF, MONO
X : No
Appendices
* 1 Transmitted when EXP pedal is operated.

* 2 Transmitted when CTL 1 pedal is operated.
* 3 Transmitted when CTL 2 pedal is operated.
* 4 FA is transmitted upon start of current phrase; FC is transmitted when all phrases are stopped.
* 5 With Play mode set to Single: current phrase starts upon reception of FA, stops upon reception of FC.
With Play mode set to Multi: current phrase starts upon reception of FA, with all stop upon reception of FC.
99
Main Specifications
RC-50: Loop Station
Control
AD Conversion
<Front Panel>
REC/PLAY/OVERDUB pedal
STOP pedal
TEMPO pedal
UNDO/REDO pedal
PHRASE 1 pedal
PHRASE 2 pedal
PHRASE 3 pedal
PATCH/VALUE dial
24 bit
DA Conversion
24 bit
Sampling Frequency
44.1 kHz
Program Memories
99
Nominal Input Level

INST:
MIC:
AUX:
-10 dBu
-50 dBu
-16 dBu
Input Impedance
INST:
MIC:
AUX:
1 M
1 k
100 k
Nominal Output Level

MAIN OUTPUT:
SUB OUTPUT:
-10 dBu
-10 dBu
Output Impedance
MAIN OUTPUT:
SUB OUTPUT:
PHONES:
2 k
2 k
47

STEREO:
MONO:
*
Approx. 24 minutes
Approx. 49 minutes
The times listed above take into account the amount of memory needed
for the actual recording combined with the memory required for the
RC-50s operations (e.g., Undo/Redo).
PARAMETER buttons (
/
)
TAP TEMPO button
NAME/PATCH button
CTL/EXP PEDAL button
SYSTEM/USB button
EXIT button
WRITE button
PLAY MODE button
LOOP SYNC button
AUTO REC button
INPUT MODE button
OVERDUB MODE button
LOOP QUANTIZE indicator
OVERDUB MODE indicators
(OVERDUB, REPLACE, MOMENTARY PUNCH-IN)
(PHRASE EDIT)
PHRASE LEVEL knobs (PHRASE 1, 2, 3)
PHRASE buttons (PHRASE 1, 2, 3)
REVERSE indicators (PHRASE 1, 2, 3)
ONE SHOT indicators (PHRASE 1, 2, 3)
(GUIDE)
LEVEL knob
SELECT button
START/STOP button
(INPUT LEVEL)
AUX knob
MIC knob
INST knob
PEAK indicator
(MASTER)
LEVEL knob
<Rear Panel>
PHANTOM switch
POWER switch
Display
16 characters, 2 lines (backlit LCD)
2 characters, 7 segment LED
100
Main Specifications
Connectors
INST jacks R (MONO)/L (1/4 inch phone type)
MIC connector (XLR type; supports use of phantom power)
AUX jack (Stereo miniature phone type)
MAIN OUTPUT jacks R (MONO)/L (1/4 inch phone type)
PHONES jack (Stereo 1/4 inch phone type)
SUB OUTPUT jacks R (MONO)/L (1/4 inch phone type)
EXP/CTL 3,4 PEDAL jack (TRS 1/4 inch phone type)
CTL 1,2 PEDAL jack (TRS 1/4 inch phone type)
USB connector
MIDI connectors (IN/OUT)
DC IN (AC adaptor) jack
Power Supply
DC 9 V: Supply AC adaptor (Roland ACI or ACB series)
Current Draw
450 mA
Dimensions
472 (W) x 198 (D) x 64 (H) mm
18-5/8 (W) x 7-13/16 (D) x 2-9/16 (H) inches
Weight
2.9 kg/ 6 lbs 7 oz (excluding AC adaptor)
Accessories
AC adaptor (Roland ACI or ACB series)
USB cable
Owners Manual
Roland Service (information sheet)
Sound Library for RC-50 (Sample Phrase CD)
Options
Foot Switch: FS-5U
Dual Foot Switch: FS-6
Expression Pedal: EV-5 (Roland), FV-500L/H
Foot Switch Cable: PCS-31 (Roland)
(Stereo 1/4 inch phone plug1/4 inch phone plug x 2)
0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms
In the interest of product improvement, the specifications and/

or appearance of this unit are subject to change without prior
notice.
Appendices
101
About Sound Library for RC-50

This CD is CD Extra-compatible and includes sample phrases for the RC-50 in the following formats.
Audio data that can be played back with audio CD players
WAV files usable with computers
About the Phrase List
Audio data is divided into two or three phrases and converted to WAV files. These are suitable for use in Single Mode.
Audio data is divided into drum and bass sounds and converted to WAV files. These are suitable for use in Multi Mode.
These are effects sounds.
Contains DISCRETE DRUMS drum loops.
**
Contains BOSS Dr. Rhythm DR-880 drum sounds.
Note
The WAV files cannot be imported using the same file names on the CD. Change the file names using the procedures described in About
WAV Files Handled by the RC-50 (p. 81).
When the included CD is loaded by the computer, the ROLAND folder also appears in addition to the WAV files. This folder contains the
*
102
Recovering data merely by copying this folder to the RC-50 as is overwrites the ROLAND folder, returning the unit to its original factory settings,
but any data for original phrases already saved to this folder is cleared. Recover only the data required to the RC-50.
About Sound Library for RC-50
Phrase List
Track Name
01
Funky Blues
02
Shuffle Groove
03
Big Rock
04
05
06
Rock Ballad
Slap Funk
Power Metal
07
Chicago Blues
08
09
Straight Rock
Power Funk
10
Slow Blues
11
Funk Groove
12
Mode Jazz
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
Slow Rock1
Slow Rock2
T.Wah Funk
Clav Funk
Straight Funk
Slap Bass
Acid Funk
Simple Groove
Dance1
Dance2
Dance3
24
Cool Groove
25
Shuffle Funk
Slow Groove
27
28
29
30
Rock Jam
Classic Rock
Snare Groove
Blues Rhythm
31
Shuffle
32
33
Mid-Fast Rock
Reggae Shuffle
34
Half-Time Shuffle
35
36
Rock Toms
Downbeat Snare
37
Surf Rock
38
39
Heavy Rock1
Heavy Rock2
40
Heavy Rock3
41
42
43
Metal Beat1
Metal Beat2
Heavy Shuffle
44
Acoustic Rock1
45
46
Acoustic Rock2
Funk1
126
126
126
158
158
158
74
74
74
67
100
234
126
126
126
118
108
70
70
70
95
180
180
82
118
105
105
115
147
105
120
130
130
130
103
103
100
70
70
96
140
126
56
130
130
136
140
86
86
94
118
150
150
99
86
78
78
246
210
170
110
110
110
90
FunkBlP1.wav
FunkBlP2.wav
FunkBlP3.wav
SflGrvP1.wav
SflGrvP2.wav
SflGrvP3.wav
BigRckP1.wav
BigRckP2.wav
BigRckP3.wav
RockBlld.wav
SlapFunk.wav
PwrMetal.wav
ChcgBlP1.wav
ChcgBlP2.wav
ChcgBlP3.wav
StrghtRk.wav
PowrFunk.wav
SloBlsP1.wav
SloBlsP2.wav
SloBlsP3.wav
Funk_Grv.wav
ModeJzP1.wav
ModeJzP2.wav
SloRock1.wav
SloRock2.wav
TWahFunk.wav
ClavFunk.wav
StrtFunk.wav
SlapBass.wav
AcidFunk.wav
SimplGrv.wav
Dance1.wav
Dance2.wav
Dance3.wav
CoolGrDr.wav
CoolGrBs.wav
ShflFunk.wav
SloGrvDr.wav
SloGrvBs.wav
Rock_Jam.wav
ClassRck.wav
SnareGrv.wav
BlsRhthm.wav
ShffleDr.wav
ShffleBs.wav
MidFstRk.wav
ReggShfl.wav
HlfSflDr.wav
HlfSflBs.wav
RockToms.wav
DwnbtSnr.wav
SurfRkDr.wav
SurfRkBs.wav
HvyRock1.wav
HvyRock2.wav
HvyRk3Dr.wav
HvyRk3Bs.wav
MtlBeat1.wav
MtlBeat2.wav
HvyShffl.wav
AcoRk1Dr.wav
AcoRk1Bs.wav
AcoRock2.wav
Funk1.wav
Track Name
*
*
*
**
**
**
*
*
*
**
*
*
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
*
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
47
Funk2
48
Funk3
49
50
51
52
53
Funk4
Funk Rock
Fast Funk
Fusion1
Fusion2
54
Ballad1
55
56
57
58
59
60
Ballad2
Ballad3
Ballad4
Ballad5
Swing Jazz1
Swing Jazz2
61
Latin Pop1
62
Latin Pop2
63
Perc Bossa
64
Samba
65
R&B Pop1
66
67
68
69
R&B Pop2
R&B Pop3
Simple Beat1
Simple Beat2
70
Simple Beat3
71
Simple Beat4
72
Slow Shuffle
73
Kick&HiHat1
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
Kick&HiHat2
Synth FX1
Synth FX2
Synth FX3
Birds1
Birds2
Birds3
Foot Steps
Insect
Machine
Mysterious
Owl
Applause
Water1
Water2
Water3
Water4
Honk
Plane
Motor1
Motor2
Swing
Zap1
Zap2
Zap3
Original Tempo File Name
106
106
116
116
118
116
150
126
98
68
68
64
68
70
60
160
145
115
115
120
110
110
120
100
100
104
84
110
115
110
110
124
68
68
112
112
112
94
77
155.5
97
70
71
114
90
86
155
106
96
150.5
121
136
117
105
103.5
140
127
91
68.5
84.5
147
Funk2Dr.wav
Funk2Bs.wav
Funk3Dr.wav
Funk3Bs.wav
Funk4.wav
FunkRock.wav
FastFunk.wav
Fusion1.wav
Fusion2.wav
Balld1Dr.wav
Balld1Bs.wav
Ballad2.wav
Ballad3.wav
Ballad4.wav
Ballad5.wav
SwingJz1.wav
SwingJz2.wav
LtPop1Dr.wav
LtPop1Bs.wav
LatnPop2.wav
PerBssDr.wav
PerBssBs.wav
Samba.wav
RBPop1Dr.wav
RBPop1Bs.wav
RnB_Pop2.wav
RnB_Pop3.wav
SimplBt1.wav
SimplBt2.wav
Simpl3Dr.wav
Simpl3Bs.wav
SimplBt4.wav
SloSflDr.wav
SloSflBs.wav
KckHH1Dr.wav
KckHH1Bs.wav
Kick_HH2.wav
SynthFX1.wav
SynthFX2.wav
SynthFX3.wav
Birds1.wav
Birds2.wav
Birds3.wav
FootStep.wav
Insect.wav
Machine.wav
Mystery.wav
Owl.wav
Applause.wav
Water1.wav
Water2.wav
Water3.wav
Water4.wav
Honk.wav
Plane.wav
Motor1.wav
Motor2.wav
Swing.wav
Zap1.wav
Zap2.wav
Zap3.wav
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
**
103
Appendices
26
Original Tempo File Name
Index
A
AC Adaptor ............................................................................................ 13
All Start ................................................................................................... 61
All Stop ................................................................................................... 61
AUTO ................................................................................................ 50, 75
AUTO REC ....................................................................................... 11, 47
Auto Recording ............................................................................... 47, 69
AUX ................................................................................................... 11, 13
AUX & MIC Flat Amp .......................................................................... 48
AUX & MIC Flat Amp Simulate ......................................................... 48
AUX Center Cancel ............................................................................... 48
Available Recording Time ............................................................. 48, 67
B
Backup ........................................................................................ 80, 82, 84
Beat .......................................................................................................... 46
C
CAPS ....................................................................................................... 45
CC#1 Func .............................................................................................. 78
CC#7 Func .............................................................................................. 78
CC#80 Func ............................................................................................ 78
CD Extra ............................................................................................... 102
Clear ........................................................................................................ 32
Copy ........................................................................................................ 54
Copy Phrase ........................................................................................... 51
Copy to .................................................................................................... 54
Count-In .................................................................................................. 40
CTL 1,2 PEDAL ............................................................................... 13, 70
CTL/EXP PEDAL ........................................................................... 10, 70
CTL1 Func .............................................................................................. 71
CTL2 Func .............................................................................................. 71
CTL3 Func .............................................................................................. 71
CTL4 Func .............................................................................................. 71
Current Phrase ................................................................................. 28, 30
CURRENT SETTING ............................................................................ 68
FADE OUT ............................................................................................. 53

Fade Out Time ....................................................................................... 49
Flat Amp Simulate ................................................................................ 48
Foot Switch ............................................................................................. 70
G
GUIDE ..................................................................................................... 11
Guide ................................................................................................. 36, 46
Beat ................................................................................................... 39
Count-In ........................................................................................... 40
Level ........................................................................................... 3940
Output Select ................................................................................... 40
Pattern .............................................................................................. 39
Time Signature ................................................................................ 39
GUIDE LEVEL ....................................................................................... 39
Guide Out ............................................................................................... 69
GUIDE START/STOP .......................................................................... 46
I
IMMEDIATE ........................................................................ 5253, 65, 68
INIT PATCH .............................................................................. 20, 44, 95
Initialize .................................................................................................. 44
INPUT ..................................................................................................... 13
INPUT LEVEL ................................................................................. 11, 19
Input Level ............................................................................................. 19
INPUT MODE .................................................................................. 11, 48
Input Out .......................................................................................... 50, 69
INS ........................................................................................................... 45
INST ......................................................................................................... 11
INTERNAL ....................................................................................... 50, 75
Import ......................................................................................... 80, 83, 85
J
JUMP ....................................................................................................... 10
Knob Mode ............................................................................................. 68

KNOB POSITION .................................................................................. 68
DC IN ...................................................................................................... 13
DEL .......................................................................................................... 45
Display .................................................................................................... 10
Driver ...................................................................................................... 80
E
Erasing .................................................................................................... 32
Exchange ................................................................................................. 55
EXIT ......................................................................................................... 10
EXP Func ................................................................................................ 72
EXP Level ............................................................................................... 72
EXP Pedal ............................................................................................... 72
EXP Tempo ............................................................................................. 72
EXP/CTL 3, 4 PEDAL .......................................................................... 70
EXP/CTL 3,4 PEDAL ..................................................................... 13, 72
Export .......................................................................................... 80, 83, 85
F
Factory Reset .......................................................................................... 95
FADE IN ................................................................................................. 52
Fade in Time ........................................................................................... 49
104
LCD Contrast ......................................................................................... 68

LEVEL ............................................................................................... 11, 19
Level ............................................................................................ 40, 49, 53
LOOP ....................................................................................................... 52
LOOP END ....................................................................................... 53, 65
LOOP QUANTIZE ................................................................................ 11
Loop Quantize ....................................................................................... 42
LOOP SYNC ..................................................................................... 11, 47
Loop Sync ............................................................................. 28, 47, 5860
Loop Time .............................................................................................. 29
M
Macintosh ............................................................................................... 80
MAIN .......................................................................................... 50, 53, 69
MAIN OUTPUT .................................................................................... 13
MAIN+SUB ................................................................................ 50, 53, 69
MASTER ........................................................................................... 11, 19
MASTER LEVEL .............................................................................. 11, 19
MIC .................................................................................................... 11, 13
Index
MIDI .................................................................................................. 74, 94

Control Change .................................................................. 7476, 94
MIDI Sync ........................................................................................ 75
Omni Mode ..................................................................................... 75
Program Change ................................................................ 7477, 94
Program Number ........................................................................... 74
Realtime Message ........................................................................... 94
Receive Channel ............................................................................. 75
Start Message ............................................................................ 7677
Stop Message ............................................................................ 7677
Synchronized Performance ........................................................... 77
System Message .............................................................................. 94
Transmit Channel ........................................................................... 75
MIDI CC Out .......................................................................................... 75
MIDI Clock ............................................................................................. 74
MIDI IN .................................................................................................. 13
MIDI Implementation Chart ................................................................ 94
MIDI Omni ............................................................................................. 75
MIDI OUT .............................................................................................. 13
MIDI PC Out .......................................................................................... 75
MIDI Rx Ch ............................................................................................ 75
MIDI Sync ......................................................................................... 50, 75
MIDI Tx Ch ............................................................................................ 75
MOMENTARY PUNCH-IN .......................................................... 32, 47
MONO ........................................................................................ 30, 48, 67
Multi Mode ..................................................................... 20, 28, 37, 42, 58
MUTE ...................................................................................................... 69
N
Name ....................................................................................................... 45
NAME/PATCH .............................................................................. 10, 45
O
OFF .......................................................................................................... 52
ON ........................................................................................................... 52
ONE SHOT ................................................................................. 11, 29, 52
One Shot ..................................................................................... 52, 6465
Original Tempo ............................................................................... 3637
OS ............................................................................................................ 80
Output ............................................................................................... 40, 53
Output Level .......................................................................................... 19
Output Select ........................................................................ 40, 50, 53, 69
OVERDUB ........................................................................................ 32, 47
OVERDUB MODE .......................................................................... 11, 47
Overdubbing ........................................................................ 24, 31, 60, 65
Overdubbing Mode .............................................................................. 47
105
Appendices
Pan ........................................................................................................... 53
PARAMETER ......................................................................................... 10
PAT .............................................................................................. 70, 72, 78
PATCH ........................................................................................ 69, 75, 95
Patch ............................................................................................ 18, 28, 44
Auto Recording .............................................................................. 47
Beat ................................................................................................... 46
Copy ................................................................................................. 54
Exchange .......................................................................................... 55
Initialize ........................................................................................... 44
Loop Sync ........................................................................................ 47
MIDI Sync ........................................................................................ 50

Name ................................................................................................ 45
Overdubbing Mode ....................................................................... 47
Play Mode ........................................................................................ 47
Protect .............................................................................................. 69
Save .................................................................................................. 54
Select ................................................................................................ 44
Tempo .............................................................................................. 45
Volume ............................................................................................. 49
Write ................................................................................................. 54
Patch Extent ............................................................................................ 68
Patch Name ...................................................................................... 18, 45
Patch Parameter ..................................................................................... 97
Patch Select ............................................................................................. 33
Patch Select Mode ................................................................................. 33
Patch Setting ..................................................................................... 70, 77
Patch Tempo ........................................................................ 36, 38, 45, 65
PATCH/VALUE ................................................................................... 10
Pattern ..................................................................................................... 39
PEAK ................................................................................................. 11, 19
Pedal ........................................................................................................ 70
Pedal function ........................................................................................ 70
Phantom Power ..................................................................................... 13
PHANTOM ............................................................................................ 13
PHONES ................................................................................................. 13
PHRASE ............................................................................................ 1112
Phrase .................................................................................... 18, 20, 28, 51
AUX & MIC Flat Amp Simulate .................................................. 48
AUX Center Cancel ........................................................................ 48
Copy ................................................................................................. 51
Fade-In Time ................................................................................... 49
Fade-Out Time ................................................................................ 49
One Shot .......................................................................................... 52
Output Select ................................................................................... 53
Recording ........................................................................................ 48
Recording Mode ............................................................................. 48
Reverse ............................................................................................. 52
Simul-Start ....................................................................................... 50
Start Mode ....................................................................................... 52
Stereo/Mono ................................................................................... 48
Stop Mode ....................................................................................... 53
Tempo Sync ..................................................................................... 53
Volume ............................................................................................. 51
PHRASE 1 ......................................................................................... 1112
PHRASE 2 ......................................................................................... 1112
PHRASE 3 ......................................................................................... 1112
Phrase Change Mode ............................................................................ 49
Phrase Copy ........................................................................................... 51
PHRASE EDIT ................................................................................. 11, 19
Phrase1, 2, 3 Out .................................................................................... 69
PhraseChng ............................................................................................ 49
Play Count .............................................................................................. 40
PLAY MODE .............................................................................. 11, 29, 47
Play Mode ......................................................................................... 29, 47
Play Screen ............................................................................................. 18
Playback ...................................................................................... 22, 31, 60
POWER ................................................................................................... 13
Preset Protect ................................................................................... 23, 69
PresetProtct ............................................................................................ 69
Protect ..................................................................................................... 69
Index
Remaining Recording Time ................................................................. 67

Remaining Time .................................................................................... 30
REC -> OVERDUB ................................................................................ 69
REC -> PLAY ......................................................................................... 69
Rec Count ............................................................................................... 40
Rec Mode ................................................................................................ 48
REC Pdl Act ............................................................................................ 69
REC Pedal Action .................................................................................. 69
REC/PLAY/OVERDUB ...................................................................... 12
Recording ......................................................................................... 20, 30
Recording Time ..................................................................................... 30
Recover ....................................................................................... 80, 82, 84
Redo ............................................................................................ 12, 25, 32
REMOTE ........................................................................................... 50, 75
REPLACE ......................................................................................... 32, 47
REVERSE ................................................................................................ 11
Reverse .................................................................................................... 52
WAV File ................................................................................................ 81

Windows ........................................................................................... 80, 82
WRITE ............................................................................................... 10, 54
Write to ................................................................................................... 54
S
SELECT ................................................................................................... 11
Single Mode ............................................................. 22, 2829, 36, 42, 64
Simul-Start .............................................................................................. 61
SimulStart ......................................................................................... 50, 61
Sound Library for RC-50 .................................................................... 102
Start ......................................................................................................... 52
Start Mode .............................................................................................. 52
START/STOP .................................................................................. 11, 39
STEREO ...................................................................................... 30, 48, 67
STOP .................................................................................................. 12, 32
Stop .......................................................................................................... 53
Stop Mode .............................................................................................. 53
Stopping .................................................................................................. 32
SUB .............................................................................................. 50, 53, 69
SUB OUTPUT ........................................................................................ 13
Switching Patches .................................................................................. 33
SYS ............................................................................................... 70, 72, 78
System Parameter .................................................................................. 96
System Setting ............................................................................ 68, 70, 77
SYSTEM .................................................................................................. 95
SYSTEM/USB .................................................................................. 10, 68
T
TAP TEMPO .................................................................................... 10, 45
TEMPO ............................................................................................. 12, 70
TEMPO Func .......................................................................................... 71
TEMPO Pedal ......................................................................................... 70
Tempo ............................................................................................... 36, 38
Tempo Sync ................................................................................ 29, 36, 53
Trigger Level .......................................................................................... 69
U
Undo ............................................................................................ 12, 25, 32
Undo Func .............................................................................................. 71
UNDO/REDO ..................................................................... 12, 25, 32, 70
UNDO/REDO Pedal ............................................................................ 70
USB .......................................................................................................... 13
106
USING THE UNIT SAFELY
The
symbol alerts the user to important instructions
or warnings.The specific meaning of the symbol is
determined by the design contained within the
triangle. In the case of the symbol at left, it is used for
general cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.

the user to the risk of death or severe
injury should the unit be used
improperly.
the user to the risk of injury or material
damage should the unit be used
improperly.
* Material damage refers
other adverse effects
respect to the home
furnishings, as well
animals or pets.
The
symbol alerts the user to items that must never
be carried out (are forbidden). The specific thing that
must not be done is indicated by the design contained
within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it
means that the unit must never be disassembled.
to damage or
caused with
and all its
to domestic
The symbol alerts the user to things that must be

carried out. The specific thing that must be done is
indicated by the design contained within the circle. In
the case of the symbol at left, it means that the powercord plug must be unplugged from the outlet.
For the U.K.

IMPORTANT: THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.
NEUTRAL
BLUE:
BROWN: LIVE
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying
the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.
Under no circumstances must either of the above wires be connected to the earth terminal of a three pin plug.
For EU Countries
This product complies with the requirements of European Directive 89/336/EEC.
001
009
Before using this unit, make sure to read the

instructions below, and the Owners Manual.
Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord,

nor place heavy objects on it. Doing so can
damage the cord, producing severed elements
and short circuits. Damaged cords are fire and
shock hazards!
..........................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................
002c
Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its

AC adaptor.
010
..........................................................................................................
003
Do not attempt to repair the unit, or replace parts

within it (except when this manual provides
specific instructions directing you to do so). Refer
all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland
Service Center, or an authorized Roland
distributor, as listed on the Information sheet.
..........................................................................................................
004
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); or
are
Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors);
or are
Humid; or are
Exposed to rain; or are
Dusty; or are
Subject to high levels of vibration.
..........................................................................................................
007
Make sure you always have the unit placed so it is

level and sure to remain stable. Never place it on
stands that could wobble, or on inclined surfaces.
..........................................................................................................
008c
Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with

the unit. Also, make sure the line voltage at the
installation matches the input voltage specified on
the AC adaptors body. Other AC adaptors may
use a different polarity, or be designed for a
different voltage, so their use could result in
damage, malfunction, or electric shock.
..........................................................................................................
This unit, either alone or in combination with an

amplifier and headphones or speakers, may be
capable of producing sound levels that could
cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for
a long period of time at a high volume level, or at
a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience
any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should
immediately stop using the unit, and consult an
audiologist.
..........................................................................................................
011
Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable

material, coins, pins); or liquids of any kind
(water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate the unit.
For the USA
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Unauthorized changes or modification to this system can void the users authority to operate this equipment.
This equipment requires shielded interface cables in order to meet FCC class B Limit.
For Canada
..........................................................................................................
012b
Immediately turn the power off, remove the AC

adaptor from the outlet, and request servicing by
your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center,
or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on
the Information sheet when:
The AC adaptor, the power-supply cord, or the
plug has been damaged; or
NOTICE
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
AVIS
Cet appareil numrique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Rglement sur le matriel brouilleur du Canada.
For the USA
If smoke or unusual odor occurs
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Compliance Information Statement
Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been

spilled onto the unit; or
The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise
has become wet); or
The unit does not appear to operate normally
or exhibits a marked change in performance.
..........................................................................................................
Model Name :
Type of Equipment :
Responsible Party :
Address :
Telephone :
RC-50
Loop Station
Roland Corporation U.S.
5100 S.Eastern Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90040-2938
(323) 890-3700
Owners Manual
Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the BOSS RC-50
Loop Station.
Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled:
USING THE UNIT SAFELY (page 23)
IMPORTANT NOTES (page 45)
These sections provide important information concerning the proper
operation of the unit.
Additionally, in order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp of
every feature provided by your new unit, Owners manual should be read in
its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient
reference.
Printing Conventions in This Manual

Text or numerals enclosed in square brackets [ ] indicate buttons.
[WRITE]
[EXIT]
WRITE button
EXIT button
EXP pedal is an abbreviation of expression pedal.

Reference such as (p. **) indicate pages in this manual to which you can refer.
Copyright 2005 BOSS CORPORATION
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written
permission of BOSS CORPORATION.
G6017155R2

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Owner's Manual: Thank You, and Congratulations On Your Choice of The BOSS Loop Station

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Owners Manual

Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the BOSS RC-50

Printing Conventions in This Manual

EXP pedal is an abbreviation of expression pedal.

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

Used for instructions intended to alert

The symbol alerts the user to things that must be

Before using this unit, make sure to read the

Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord,

Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its

For the U.K.

For the USA

Do not attempt to repair the unit, or replace parts

Never use or store the unit in places that are:

Make sure you always have the unit placed so it is

Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with

This unit, either alone or in combination with an

Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable

Immediately turn the power off, remove the AC

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

If smoke or unusual odor occurs

The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise

For the USA

The unit does not appear to operate normally

In households with small children, an adult

The unit and the AC adaptor should be located so

Always grasp only the plug on the AC adaptor

Protect the unit from strong impact.

Do not force the units power-supply cord to

At regular intervals, you should unplug the AC

Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult

Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming

Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on

Never handle the AC adaptor or its plugs with

Before moving the unit, disconnect the AC

Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and

Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning

Keep a USB connector cap you may remove and

Always turn the phantom power off when

Do not connect this unit to same electrical outlet that is

The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long

Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn off the

Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other equipment

This device may interfere with radio and television

Noise may be produced if wireless communications

Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near

When moved from one location to another where the

Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any

Repairs and Data

Please be aware that all data contained in the units

Please be aware that the contents of memory can be

Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents

Use a reasonable amount of care when using the units

When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the

To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the units

When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box

Use only the specified expression pedal (FV-500H/L,

Use a cable from Roland to make the connection. If using

Avoid touching or scratching the shiny underside