V-Drums
的創新

V-Drums Development, Part 8: Experiments and tests to achieve superior musical expression.

For the development of the TD-50, we set out to capture the acoustic drum kit quirks that conventional sampling technology cannot reproduce. In particular, we paid close attention to how the dynamics and tonal character change depending on where the drumhead is struck. To achieve our aim, we performed repeated tests and experiments in side-by-side comparisons with an acoustic kit, adjusting the sensitivity of the pads to optimize our prototype sound source, as well as manipulating and refining a huge range of parameters. During the process, our entire dedicated engineer team was on hand to carefully check the behavior and subtle changes found on the sensor and waveform. It was a long and demanding process—but the result is supreme expression that extends far beyond the capabilities of typical electronic drum kits.

For more details: www.roland.com/jp/promos/innovation_of_v-drums/
#TD50

V-Drums Development, Part 7: Software development and user interface design.

Roland is obsessive when it comes to the accuracy of V-Drums' sensing software and user interface design. While developing the technology for the touch sensors, we invited the engineers from the sensor manufacturer for intensive discussions on the optimum design approach. And to achieve extreme low-latency performance, we created a proprietary digital communication technology specifically for V-Drums, based on Roland’s expertise in USB audio interface development. The accuracy of the multi-sensor pads is also dramatically improved over earlier generations, thanks to a machine-learning method that uses AI technology to finely tune each sensor. As a result, we can now achieve levels of expressiveness never heard before, with every subtle drumming nuance faithfully detected. To ensure that the user interface is totally intuitive, we test repeatedly with drummers in real-world scenarios. In addition, we’ve meticulously designed the ideal monitoring environment for the player, including easy-to-adjust mixing of the drum sounds, a click track for stage performing and studio recording, and more.

For more details: www.roland.com/global/promos/innovation_of_v-drums/
#TD50

V-Drums Development, Part 6: Circuit Board and Op-Amp Design

When designing the new TD-50, a priority was to ensure that the digital-to-analog converter was capable of handling the superior sound associated with a flagship V-Drums kit. The final circuit board was subjected to waveform measurement and other vigorous quality control processes until we were satisfied the technology would perform according to our rigouous design specifications. We also paid close attention to the selection of the op-amp (which is deeply related to the sound quality and character), performing countless listening tests before we chose the best one. In addition, the TD-50 features two headphone jacks plus a mix input jack located at the front of the module. By adding these audio features in the limited space available, it was quite difficult to maintain top sound quality when designing the underlying circuit board. But through our diligent efforts, we were able to realize this useful convenience feature with no sound compromises.

For more details: www.roland.com/global/promos/innovation_of_v-drums/
#TD50

V-Drums Development, Part 5: Mechanism design and testing the playing feel of the kick trigger pad.

The KD-A22 Kick Drum Converter transforms a standard 22-inch acoustic kick drum into a trigger for V-Drum modules. At the start of its development, we analyzed the various elements of acoustic kick drums, which included carefully measuring how far a drum head depresses when struck by a beater, a vital element of playing feel. We also produced hundreds of prototypes with different materials and shapes to achieve both the optimum feel and quietest possible operation.

For more details: www.roland.com/global/promos/innovation_of_v-drums/
#TD50

V-Drums Development, Part 4: Testing the Swing Motion, Strength, and Playing Feel of the CY-18DR V-Cymbal

The new CY-18DR V-Cymbal Digital Ride is the result of deep analysis and countless tests. An obsessive approach led to hundreds of prototypes, where we changed the shape, depth, and cross-sectional structure of the striking surface until we found the best way to reproduce the natural swing of a ride cymbal. Extensive testing was also necessary to find the best shape and installation method needed for optimum sensor performance and durability. Perfecting the CY-18DR's multi-sensor system and onboard CPU presented a huge challenge as well, demanding many meetings between the development and production teams. But as you’ll see, the groundbreaking result is worth it.

For more details: www.roland.com/global/promos/innovation_of_v-drums/
#TD50

V-Drums Development, Part 3: Perfecting the Snare Multi-Sensor System

The snare drum is one of the most important and expressive parts of a drum kit, and recreating its sound requires deep analysis and experimentation. We conducted strength analysis of the bottom hoop to ensure it could withstand the forces generated by hard hitting. In addition, we needed to find the right density and optimum position of the sensor cushions while creating the most effective mounting structure. We even used a laser displacement meter to carefully measure how far the mesh head depresses when struck at different velocities.

For more details: www.roland.com/promos/innovation_of_v-drums/
#TD50