I Love / Hate the Roland GR-55 Guitar Synth

[@straycat7247]

Excellent video. Could you please post somewhere the mods you did to get the SEND / RETURN jacks?

[@GregoryMcGann]

The program he's talking about is probably GR Floorboard, by Gumtown at V-Guitar Forums. I wouldn't even try to use my GR55 without this program.

[@aliensporebomb]

Yep. Gumtown has done some amazing things including editors and such for the GP-10, VG-99, GR-55 among others.

[@valkyriekl]

After using the GR-33 for over a year and having to haul around a set of pedals to process the "straight guitar" sound, I wanted an all-in-one solution, and the GR-55 seemed to be the perfect solution. I tried for about a month to get the GR-55 set up the way I wanted, with similar-sounding synth patches to those in my GR-33, and similar-sounding guitar patches to the "straight guitar" stuff I do with external effects (a Zoom G3 multi-effects pedal in this case), but actually trying to use the unit was pretty annoying and never got any better -- all of the issues you enumerate here were things I encountered. In addition, the GR55 cannot be "played" by anything other than its pitch-to-MIDI thingy, driven by the pickups in an appropriately-equipped guitar - I can't plug a keyboard MIDI controller into it and play its sounds (which would have simplified my gear a little more, as I also play keyboards). Also, I had a lot of issues getting "ghost notes", even when turning down the string sensitivity, and messing with the other various settings, and trying my various GK-2A- and GK-3-equipped guitars (and even my Godin xtSA). I feel like I gave the GR-55 a fair shake, and still couldn't really fall in love with it. I ended up selling it and sticking with my old, tried-and-true GR-33+G3 solution. So I definitely agree with pretty much everything you've said in this video. Cheers, and best of luck to you, Mr. Russell!

[@nealixd.3011]

Wow, this thing sounds like a disaster. Best to be happy with my venerable Roland GR-33 that has cut a lot of gigs for me since 2001, along with my 1999 Godin LGXT, an amazing instrument.

[@jacobbrown1690]

i hate my gr 33.....its practically brand new. ....but latency is horrible. i love my vg 99 and vb 99. my gr 55 i use for bass and its fine for that. now the sy 300 seems fine so far..... gr 33 can be triggered with a keyboard by the way.

[@paulstubbs4487]

I gigged a GR55 in a covers band for 3 years and loved it. Yes it's quirky and flawed but it's still an amazing piece of kit. You're right about the presets, they are pointless and useless but wrong about the controls. Using the assigns and switches you can get at least 5 variations on each patch. It's far better than changing patches. You need to be able to work the interface on the fly but I found it best to use the 3rd party software for creating patches and developing them using headphones they were pretty close for final use maybe with some tweaks during rehearsal. For gigging I just pressed the buttons and it worked every time. You set it up then it just does the job. It's a compact, flexible and powerful unit when you learn how use it properly. The 13 pin cable is a pain but a small price to pay for what you get. I did acoustics, synths, altered tunings and multiple sounds. It's classic Roland. Brilliant but flawed.

[@robertferguson879]

Interesting....I'm curious as to what third-party software do you use? I'm thinking of getting one.

[@paulstubbs4487]

@@robertferguson879 sourceforge.net/projects/grfloorboard/

[@robertferguson879]

@@paulstubbs4487 Thanks Paul

[@glennurquhart2989]

Having used the Gr-20, VG-99 and then the GR-55 as a musician for over ten years in several cover rock bands, your approach to your guitar playing means you must adapt to the synth and its limitations. The 5 -7 millisecond delay means you have to play ahead of the beat. Your attack has to be full off to shorten the response. Sounds counterintuitive, but it works (-50) The guitar modeling is great, straight out, with or without your regular guitar. The ability to blend your regular guitar with the synth is worth the price of admission. To be able to blend an organ, plus a 12 string guitar with your normal guitar at the same time, is awesome. The sub menus can get involved, but that's what the OM is for. I spent many hours tweaking and finding the sounds I was looking for and it was well worth it. In a 4 piece band, I've turned a lot of heads going after artists like Joe Cocker (brass), Elvis (strings), Moody Blues/Tom Petty (12 string) etc. Alternate tunings are awesome, especially for slide guitar. Your PICK ARTICULATION is everything, depending on the instrument covered. One of the best musical investments I ever made.. Glenn Urquhart

[@paulstubbs4487]

@@glennurquhart2989 The Floorboard software takes the hard work out of the menus but you still need to be up to speed to tweak on the fly if necessary. And yes, you need to think like a sax player or keyboard player or flute player, as well as a guitar player but like you, I added another dimension and made the audience take notice.

[@jackstrada5263]

You keep saying that your reviews get people to buy this, but this review has pretty much talked me out of getting it

[@nealixd.3011]

Ha, so true.

[@matts4025]

"I've litterly sold hundreds of these things for you" "20 people messaged me saying they bought it" lol its youtube on a music page, chances are nobody bought it because of this video bro 😭

[@goodtimefolkrock]

I did.....i love it once you understand how it works it one of the greatest pedals for the solo musician ever made ....not perfect far from it but still amazing . It turns a sandwich into a banquet and will greatly enhance you shows when used sparingly

[@klmandjmc]

@@matts4025 If one person pipes up about something you can bet that there are probably about another 10 people that thought or did the same thing, too, but never said anything about it. So, it's totally reasonable for him to say that if 20-30 people messaged him about buying the unit based on his videos then you can extrapolate that there are probably at least another 200 or so that bought it but never said anything.

[@ACABSTUDIOS]

@@goodtimefolkrock Yeah but pretty unreliable for live performance

[@artgillespie162]

I have never been happy with the GR55 live. I have used guitar synths since the GR1 firs came out many year ago. I have had every version since. I still use the GR1. It has better sounds as far as I am concerned. Especially the "growling sax". I can't get that with any other version. The GR55 had some great ideas and does have some great features but they didn't make it user friendly. I have messed with them for several years and never been happy playing them live. I wish they had taken the best of the previous versions forward and just added new features. But instead they left off the most important tones and features of previous versions, especially like the GR1. I don't know what happened with Roland. If they come out with a new version I hope they listen to people who are actually using this stuff, like you Kennis, and others and not just let the computer programmers run wild. Real working musicians, like guitarist should be at the top of their list

[@davidvoung736]

Thanks! You are great! You pointed out every problem that I’ve encountered. You are a great asset for Boss to design a perfect guitar synth. They should thank you and reward you for this video.

[@stratplayer96]

I took like a duck to water with the GR55. I experienced none of these gripes. It is almost an appendage now after all these years. Love it.

[@marcsiegel1349]

I've had one for about 7 years and use it live as well and your spot on my friend excellent job! Thanks

[@eliahou1958]

Any news about the Boss SY-1000? Did they send you one for testing? You desserve it....

[@XENONEZZ2]

Just want to say how much your GR-55 tutorials have helped me get the most out of this great synth unit...Thank you...!! You mention you changed the pickups of your Godin ... what did you go for...?

[@kimwestwood8840]

Hi Kennis I have a question dont know if u will see this or not. Apparently there is a light that needs to be replaced? I have had mine 6 years and now I have no light which makes it hard to use because I have to go sound..I don't see anything on youtube about parts replacements. The exit button no longer works either. Yikes.

[@DanReppert]

You can pan the processed guitar left and the synths right, then they come out of the left and right outputs. So you can send them to your front of house sound person to process separately. The only thing you lose is stereo effects.

[@rexcellencemagee6729]

I understand the frustration! But you really need to get in the computer side of things! Everything can be controlled with third party controller via MIDI, Korg sells one $150, Behringer simple one $100, the more complex X is $179 to $579, and allows access to everything the menu won’t let you. Trust me! Watch a few keyboard synth videos on the subject. The smooth transition is a new thing. An update may fix that in the future, if the synth is capable of it. I know the new 800 is. Also use a midi foot pedal like the Behringer $179 lifesaver! No offense, you’re not in the analog guitar world anymore. I have three boards all connected together with midi, the Boss RC300, the GT1000, and the GR-55 then the GR-55 is also plugged into my Integra 7 (Roland synth) the arc-300 into my Boss 880 drum machine, the Gt-1000 via FX loop all my EHX, Earthquaker etc… and all of it to my IPad for midi control. It’s not simple! Plus I have Modular and VST to deal with. My foot Pedal has 16 pads and a expression pedal. Then I pick my most used and route them to a boss midi 5 pedal. I’m not going to lie to you,it sounds complicated and it is, but once you get it the way you want it, it’s golden! Use a table, not the floor, have metal stands for iPads and controllers, and a laptop! Your not a guitar player anymore, your a synthesist! Peace

[@homefrontproductions7664]

Hey Kennis. I have had my GR 55 for over 2 years now (one of the reasons I bought it was watching your videos about it). I also lead worship at my church and have been through my fair share of equipment. (from a Zoom pedal to the BOSS ME 70 playing through a VOX valvetronix). Instead of changing guitars on the stage, I just change a patch which makes life really easy up there (and less time setting up and down). I absolutely LOVE the GR 55 and have not looked back. Having said all that I have to agree with most of what you said above. However, I have definitely worked ways around it. Especially the usability. I plug my pedal up to my PC and use a third-party application to edit the sounds, which makes it FAAAAAR easier to work with. It is still, by far, the best workstation for a musician who sometimes plays solo on stage :)

What is that third-party application called?

[@peterdadswell7998]

Hey Kennis, you might of sold a lot of units from your vids but you have also saved a bunch of people from buying this unit and for that I/We thank you for helping us to not make a mistake. Your points are all valid and I can hope that Roland are listening. You should be working for Roland in their product development because the guys they currently have don't know $hit.

[@diminishedseventh]

Tons of good points, but the guitar out CAN be programmed to include the guitar/amp/effects models. To be fair, changing it from the way it comes out of the box isn't super intuitive.

[@williamslagle3543]

Jason Spencer OK so HOWWWW?!? U do realize no one anywhere has the solution to this problem!! But u claim that u do here hidden in some random comment section and ...not a word from any body!??!! Doesn’t any one else even try to do these kinda things ‘cus ol’ Kennis is right, it’s ridiculous that it’s not an option. I was tardy and have had mine for about a month or so and I noticed I couldn’t do that right away and just went stereo out to here n there. So please, fill me in... fill us all in. So many people want to know that this can even be done!!!

[@johnpabst4349]

@@williamslagle3543 Page 70 shows how to do it globally. I'm assuming that's what you're attempting to do... Page 71 explains how to set it up on a 'per patch' basis.

[@Carrtrek6]

Very Helpful, the only thing i have difficulty with is it states that their is 900 sounds and is listed on the manual like drums n stuff, but i cant find where you go on the board to obtain them all to see them and use them,

[@jethro-just-enjoy-reality]

A little late to this party but wanted to add my observations. First I want to say that I have watched many of Kennis' posts and gained a lot from them. Many kudos for the continued great work. Most of the points that he makes on this particular post are valid but IMHO a few are misdirected. I've been using the GR55 for 5 years in a live environment. In doing covers I'm able to add strings, sitar, flute, sax, alternate tunings, Hammond B3 (with leslie), Rhodes and acoustic piano. All this along with some pretty fantastic COSM models to boot giving me great tones for anything from Gilmore to Santana. Is it a lot of work and a general PITA? Yes, undoubtedly. Are the 900 factory preset patches a waste of time and money? Absolutely! But in my experience the GR55 is worth every penny I paid for it and has paid for itself many times over. The biggest single issue I had was with the cheap 13 pin cable that was shipped with it. I was constantly struggling with induced notes, crackling, pops and other noises when the cable was moved. I replaced the original cable pretty quickly with another cheap ($20) cable assuming that I just had a lemon. The problem didn't go away though until I bought a not so cheap ($75) replacement from Gittler Instruments (gittlerinstruments.com/d13-cables). That was 4.5 years ago and haven't had the noise problem since. One other point that I wanted to touch on. Kennis' leading comments on pedal function would be well placed if the GR55 was a guitar effects pedal. To be clear, the GR55 is NOT an effects pedal, even though it can be used to accomplish that function. It is a synthesizer with guitar effects and COSM built in. Being able to assign 3 separate patches to pedals 1, 2 and 3 is certainly a royal pain BUT so was growing callouses when I started playing guitar 50 years ago. The switch on the XTSA guitar (as well as on the GK3 pickup) switches between patch BAYS (1 thru 99) with each bay having 3 patches which are then selected using the 3 pedals. The system is flawed and doesn't lend itself well to live performing without some glitches. Once you get all the sounds you want you may still have to go in every now and then to 'align' 3 patches in the same bank but only if you're going to be using multiple voices in the same song. The answer to all of that though is to use MIDI to select your patches, but that's another story altogether. Peace!

[@lgovantes1]

Great video... I have watched all of your other training videos. I bought a GR-55 last year but found it very hard to navigate and configure, as you have pointed out. I also was not too fond of the 13-pin cable. I use this with my Godin Multiac and XTSA guitars. I think the sounds are fantastic and that is the only thing that keeps me linked. I think the GM-800 has solved some of the issues you mentioned here, and I was wondering if you have tried this unit. I think it is very overpriced, but maybe it is worth it. Any thoughts?

[@scottguitars1961]

Well said Kennis, True on every point....and not applying effects to the guitar out!!! What the hell were they thinking??? It never crossed my mind when I bought one that they wouldn’t do that.

[@yeohann1]

Hello Kennis I remember watching your videos back in the day and they were instrumental (pun intended) in my purchase of the GR55. To this day it is still my favorite piece of gear even with it's flaws, the worst being an occasional stinker note on the piano based patches. You are so right Roland was lackluster in not creating an editor for something so complex. I hope the next version will be more user friendly and even contain some of the rich sounds from the GR20. Though not editable the GR20 had some beautiful sounds despite it's latency issues. Take care sir thank you for your videos. I hope Roland will remember you when and if another version is developed.

[@lucianowisni]

Hello Kennis, are you think is it possible a New Roland Synth in next NAMM 2019?

[@FissouGiNs]

Hi, Can you use this sound : 80s brass 7 with audio player ? this sound cut out when i use audio player 😮

[@JaredGunstonTV]

I think you are I are the only 2 dudes out there using this device the way we do! :) I use mine 6 nights a week and finally moving over to the 1000 for my new show... all your comments Ive agreed with thus far and I used to check your videos when I was deciding on what pedal to go for, as a GP10 player, and many many GT pedals, etc... All the best bud !

[@JaredGunstonTV]

@@kennisrussell loving it thus far hey all the best.

[@JaredGunstonTV]

@@kennisrussell forwardee this to my friends at Roland and Boss HQ all the best

[@jameslawrencewirth]

Good show, Kennis! I used the 33 for about 10 years, had designed my patches, about 8 of which i had 2 keyboards and basses on last 2 strings. So I could provide my acoustic guitar sound with 2 keys and a bass. This was nice in groups that had no bass or keys, just guitars and drums. I loved being able to do guitar out, into FX pedal, back in, then mix all sounds from my guitar live. Now with 55 I have to figure a new way to do this, maybe install 1/4" input, output like you did. I guess we have to manufacture our own pedals!

[@funkyjazzbear1338]

Hello, Kenniss! I am a new subscriber - great video; spot on! These matters; and also an extra double Ctrl connection would have been great if was added to this legendary great beast of a guitar synth! I have been using Roland and Boss since late -70,s. GR-300, GR-700, GR-50 (still have it), VG-88 etc! But GR-55 has changed my approach to play guitar, improvising, composing and creating musical soundscapes! BUT I am sorry that they have made a lot of compromises - like you have explained, some chain controls and the great intelligent harmonizer from GX-700 and VG-88. I also agree with most users complaining of the presets that ame along with the factorysettings. I mean - what happens in Roland group? They create such a great beast like GR-55; people buy it, go home, unpack the box - to discover that there are no useful great synthesizer sounds AT ALL? Just patches of guitaristic sounds blended with weird sounds... Why dont they spend a little time and effort - or find people to help them out - on order to make more synth patches that sound fantastic, and that are useful for guitarists that are thinking out of the box??? But anyway - I just love it! I have spent thosands of hours tweaking and experimenting, and I have posted two demo,s of patches of ambient dreamy landscapes - easy to use in a musocal way. I troed to find your mail adress with no luck. I hope it is ok to send it here, hope you see it, and it would be great to hear from you about what you think! 🙏 I have also made some very useful system settings for the GK controller. 🎸🐻 kzbin.info/www/bejne/enOuqKN-jZ2bhMksi=ToRgFi-CH4MiwPVa

[@mickdebergerac1143]

Just as an add on, I have various Roland products and it's fair to say pretty much everything they do is very good but so hard to learn, like you say you HAVE to read the manual!!! C'mon Boss/Roland.... we play guitars!!!!

[@conradovitorlopesfernandes5570]

Very nice work. Thank you! Please, could you say anything about latency?

[@sfernando1]

Is there a floor unit that can produce guitar FX and wind / instruments, ALL IN ONE, without any additional attachments to be fixed onto the guitar?

[@milkdud3618]

I cant figure out the Tight Tele Stack set up. It controls EQ boost with EXP pedal. Look under the EXPON / MOD CONTROL /. MIN ( 20 Hz ) and MAX set to crazy code, 0” / / iShC( …………… and unknown characters. Check it out. I like the effect but can’t build from scratch. Whats up with that?

[@learnalickaday7272]

can I control VST's in Logic and get a MIDI notation readout via USB with GR55? Thank you

[@jeremydunn7444]

i love mine....that being said its taken me 3 yrs to have an understanding of filters. evelopes, ect. i use mine for old school, synth sounds and its perfect for that, the gr55 floorboard editor is a life saver, there are also midi footswitchs that open up a world of switching possibilities. the thing is awsome. its not for someone who does not want to study and alter their playing to suit the device. what do ppl expect from a synth?

[@jeremydunn7444]

@@kennisrussell by the way...when i first got mine your vids were very helpful. thanx!

[@jeremydunn7444]

and was it hard to add a fx loop?

[@melizbeth1]

There's much I still want to learn as I purchased the GR 55 months ago and still don't understand how to arrange specific patches for easy access to play one song with background effects. Help. Any way to make contact with specific questions??

[@ed.t.hansen6499]

pre- programmed sounds. So you should be able to make up your own and store anyway and put in any sequence for each song. Download settings for each song by song # and adjust it all live with foot control ?

[@antokrus]

Is there any way to permanently disengage the expression pedal for all patched?

[@salihaydin287]

Hello ı m from Holland how can we solve the problem ghost sound. İs opt 01 availeble ? Thank for your time

[@garethbull2226]

Hi Kennis, I saw this vid a few weeks ago. I have a GR-55 (as well as an older GR-50) and I do agree with a lot of what you say here. A little while ago I was looking at some vids of new gear announced at the Jan NAMM show. Chinese company Mooer has a new multi-fx unit with a built in polyphonic synth that does not use a specialised pickup, and the unit has some of the features you said you'd like to see in a new guitar synth, such as assigning any function to any footswitch. I can't find much hard into about it yet such as it's full specs. It's not even listed on the official Mooer web site yet. The Mooer rep in the vids says it won't be available for a few more months yet and will be priced at RRP $700 (the same price as a GR-55 without a GK pickup included). Considering the Boss SY-300 does not use a GK pickup and now this Mooer unit does not need a special pickup, gear companies may have taken some significant steps forward to making a guitar synth work using the standard guitar output signal.

[@garethbull2226]

Oops, forgot to mention that the Mooer unit is called the GE300.

[@jacobbrown1690]

sy1000 out now

[@lucianowisni]

Great video! Do you really think Roland will present a new Version of GR in 2019?

[@kenr.b.891]

The GR55 is getting long in the tooth, but Namm is going on right now, with no mention of a new GR guitar synth.

[@jacobbrown1690]

sy1000

[@michaelmervin632]

Hi Kennis Many many thanks!!! You just saved me a grand buying on EBay. I play a full midi Warr guitar so I would need two GR55 s , one for melody, one for bass. I’ll continue using my ancient but very good 1 rack space Axon AX100sb s. Great tracking, a few good sounds in Yamaha sound board After all, how many sounds do you need ? Big plus, you don’t have to bend down and roll around in the dirt to program it Once again Many thanks

[@ssi1121]

What pick ups did you change on your xtsa ? And why?

[@melbuckley6661]

Thanks, Kennis..I have only used the GR55 for a few months and am not familiar with Guitar Synth's Your video answers many of the question I had about the fuctions...

[@cymbalsplus]

Thank you for your review. What other synths can be used with a Godin 13 pin output?

[@kennisrussell]

Any of the Roland GR products. Also the Boss SY products.

[@cymbalsplus]

Kennis Russell thank you

[@BrockDavisson]

@@kennisrussell Actually only sy-1000 can be used with 13 pin, the sy-300 and sy-1 can be used with any guitar.

[@davehill9951]

I have owned mine since it came out. I am a gear junkie. This unit still amazes me with all that is going on. And there is. Took me some time to adjust and learn the product. Tracking is amazing with the Godin guitar i bought for it. I get called in to do sessions with different artists to do piano, synth and even some trumpet. 12 string patches are very cool. But be forewarned, this unit is set up the way YoU want. let someone else play it and it wont be the same. Will keep me happy well into retirement for me.

[@JohnCranberry23]

You have so many videos on the GR-55, but not once have you shown how to connect it. Not even Roland has diagrams that I can find. Can you plug it into your guitar or do you need a 13 pin adapter? Is the adapter sold separably? I just want a simple connection video to see if I want to purchase it. I have the Digitech RP360 and it's straight forward hook up, but I want Saxophone sounds and strings so I am considering the GR-55.

[@dixiekingpins7272]

Hey there Kennis... I have used the GR-55 for 5-6 years. Do you think they will come out with an upgrade for the GR-55?? It's been out for nearly 10-years and I think they are do for a new version, yes?

[@kennisrussell]

I wish they would already. Lol. I doubt it though.

[@dixiekingpins7272]

@@kennisrussell that is too bad... since there is no upgrade path, this will eventually fade from use completely (well a few will hold out.) But replacement units will eventually disappear, getting guitars that are equipped with 13-pin connectors are already disappearing. Roland has had this technology for a long time and the GR-55 is such a COOL unit, but like any product, it is time for an upgrade. thank you Kennis for you reply!

[@dearmingsacayanan]

I just sent an email to roland about this video. oct 26, 2018. its about time they hear us out.

[@dearmingsacayanan]

@@kennisrussell not yet sir. I will give you the details if they will reply

[@TmanUtube]

In my experience Roland just don't listen to the everyday users of their product, unlike most other companies. They don't want to admit they got it wrong, for risk of loosing face & having to admit there is an issue. Good luck with your request for a new product, I wouldn't be hold your breath though, but if you don't ask you'll never know?

[@artgillespie162]

@@dearmingsacayanan I have sent several emails to Roland over several years and never received a response. Not sure if they really care what we have to say. I hope that isn't the case. But if it is it is very sad

[@dearmingsacayanan]

I guess there will never be a new guitar synth built by them @@artgillespie162

[@hubertvancalenbergh9022]

I currently own four Rolands. The sounds on the GR-1 have now become a bit obsolete, but I keep it because Robert Fripp still uses it. I seldom play it, though. The manual is hefty. I'm very satisfied with the GR-20, a straightforward unit with lots of workable sounds that need little tweaking. I hear it's still much in demand, probably because of this simplicity. The GR-33 has more and better effects, an arpeggiator and a broader set of tweaking possibilities; in a sense it's an expanded GR-20. My old GR-700 is in sore need of repair; I keep it for the guitar which to this day (the GR-700/G-707 dates from 1985) turns heads. Sold my old GR-300 decades ago, something I now regret, for Metheny still uses it. But I manage to pipe up very convincing GR-300 sounds on both GR-20 and GR-33. If anything, the GR-20 sounds more convincing in this respect. Haven't tried the GR-55 yet - I'm waiting for a reasonably priced second-hand specimen. ;-) I never experienced serious lag problems while changing patches, not even when switching between guitar and synth from the GK-3. With the GR-20 I use a ZoomG2.1Nu which has its own expression pedal. The Zoom's guitar out goes to the GR-20 mix in, so both guitar and synth signals are mixed before going to the amplifier. The Zoom has no MIDI, which suits me fine. All very portable, too.

[@Thebriwac]

Hubert, Need one for a Godin AS to write notation into Finale software. Go with the GR-33? Will play live occasionally for worship at church. more concerned with ability to track notes from pickup more than sound options. Thoughts? Brian [e-mail]

[@345builderman345]

Great video Kennis. Some manufacturers write off reviewers that give negative comments, but don't realize that the buyer wants to see the negatives, so that we can make informed decisions. Hopefully Roland will take on board your suggestions. They should get a few people like yourself to try out the prototype before it goes to production.

[@Panufo]

I went to this from the GR-1, and I Can't. Live. Without. It. My biggest quibble is when you change certain parameters it screws up the other patches, which can ruin a gig. I don't expect Roland to do a newer version of this anytime soon, as so few people know what to do with one. Their new gtr synth would be useless to me. In one night I have to use Tele, Rick 12, nylon string, piano, flute, LP/Marshall, banjo, 𝘢𝘥 𝘯𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘶𝘮. Not sure Roland consulted real working musicians. The MIDI implementation sucks too. I guess it's like a B-29 - you need it to win the war, but the engines keep catching on fire.

[@lestoinkzzconcepcion2868]

i've been using this for about 6years now...and i dont want to let it go coz i love the versatility specially for me like playing a lot of covers...,but im really waiting for ROLAND to have a wireless system for this unit like FISHMAN TRIPLE PLAY DID....i always having trouble with their 13pin cable because its get break or damaged so EASILY like after 1 or 2 months of usage.. even i really taking care of the cable..hopefully ROLAND company WILL hear me out.

[@joestocker660]

I agree. Just the other night I had a belt-clip in-ear and the 13 pin GR-55 cable (bought the $80 one when the oem cable started failing) and with the two cables I was tripping all over them. Wireless option would be nice.

[@bryantwalley]

Interesting. I still have the cable that I got when I bought my GI-20. It still works great. I also have a second cable that came with my GK-2B for my bass. I have seldom every had to use it. I have kill many a regular guitar cable in the same time though. I believe peoples workflow has a lot to do with longevity. I find that I do find myself being more careful with the GK cable. Maybe a psychological thing on my part.

[@kimwestwood8840]

You ever lose the light in the screen? Mine is 6 yrs old as well and it doesnt light up anymore

[@harleyhexxe9806]

Hey Kennis! I just got this video in my feed. Pretty good explanations about what this thing can and can't do. I've been looking at one of those for a while now, but haven't pulled the trigger on it because I haven't been able to see too much of this machine in action. The videos are usually all talk. One thing I do know about the GR-55 is that the guitar out jack on the machine is just a guitar thru jack which is so you can send your guitar signal to your effects pedal board and then to your guitar amp. That seems kind of stupid to me since if you own a guitar like your Godin, or my GC-1 Roland ready Strat, you already have your 13 pin DIN cable going to the Synth, and yuour 1/4" guitar cable from your guitar going to your pedal board and to your guitar amp. This is how I would use something like that. The only sounds I would want coming from the GR-55 would mostly be the Synth tones. Maybe combined sounds of guitar/organ/horns, but not with my actual guitar tones combined in there also. I think that would sound too messy. Do you have a link for that MIDI controller? That looks like a way to give yourself more control options for the GR-55 in a live situation. I had no idea how limited the supplied buttons on the GR-55 really were. Thanks for posting man!

[@TrumpetsInMy4x12]

You can send the normal pickup signal chain (as processed by whatever fx it flows through in the GR signal chain) out of the main outs.

[@Master9754-x4b]

Some more detail please. Sunds Great

[@miraposajehano4309]

Here's my beef with the GR-55....how do I connect my Boss Rc-500 looper with it? This should be simple right but I haven't figure it out. Do I need to use a Boss FS-6 dual foot switch? Help me please...

[@brothermike5598]

Send mono or stereo signals out the left and right outs...You can control the mix levels and or bypasses for synths, normal pick ups and acoustic/cosm pickups via the GR55...then off to loopers,mixers,interfaces ect

[@miraposajehano4309]

@@brothermike5598 ??? What do you mean spinals??? Sorry I don't understand???

[@brothermike5598]

@@miraposajehano4309 Signals

[@Falcos01]

Roland do really need to come out with a new version of this GR55, how old is it really 11 years already ?

[@Thebriwac]

Since Godin designed their guitar to work directly with the GR-55 I am thinking I am stuck buying this brand. Do you have any other guitar synth you have tried. Planning on purchasing in a month. either their Multiac nylon or steel string or the XTSA you bought. Been playing 40+ years and had the Roland GR-30 years back. Blessings, Brian

[@ed.t.hansen6499]

graet to have a review of the voice live 3 extreme and its control; programing ability and food pedals to control LIVE; with foot control for each different sounds. the extreme does not have different instrument control but the flexibility does not seem to be here with the pedals, knobs to control live; with your feet ! I need to store each setting and put them in order for each Song; played LIVE. Is there remote software to up/dn load your must; reprogrammed for each step/sound ?

[@amedeo1993]

Hey Kennis, have a question Unrelated to the Gr 55...lol ( have one and also same guitar) I noticed you changed bridge and neck pickups on your Godin...can you tell me what you are using?? I hate the Stock Pickups that came with Guitar!! Thanks:-)

[@roygertel4647]

Hi ! I have the black version of the GR-55 (any difference from the blue one ?) I wanted to ask you what you think about the GR-55 as an audio card in terms of pre-amp quality. As you know, you can connect it to any DAW (I use Cubase) & use it as an asio audio card (only for the guitar connected to it - no mic input in GR-55). Do you recomend use it as audio card for the guitar or if I have a dedicated pro audio card connect the GR-55 to that audio card & record from it (I use the SPL Crimson 3) ?

[@hukarere1]

Hi all. So this was designed and made over 10 years ago. Has there been an updated better version made??

[@johnyrustam3060]

No Kennis you use FC 100 midi controller you can assign eight sounds at a time on the midi pedal that would be your controller jar 50 connect to a midi pedal that will assign your sound to it. I’ve done it back in 1991.

[@MyName-ez9lv]

This guy is right, right and right, his suggestions are exactly what I concluded. I owned the the GR-33 and got bored with its sounds and patches within weeks, then upgraded to GR-55 and found out that the sounds are similar and some new sounds like the cello and others are really bad, so I ditched that too. Guys save your hard earned money, if you want good sounds use synth modules like the Roland Fantom xr or similar products from yamaha and go through midi, you will get better sounds and hook up VG- 8 or VG- 88 or VG-99 for guitar sounds.

[@GlennMichaelThompson]

I'm glad that I never bought a GR-55. I have a Carvin Holdsworth HF2S Fatboy with a graphtech hexaphonic synth controller. Thanks for sharing your vast experience using the GR-55. Your "complaints" are valid and the very reasons I will never buy this unit. Thinking of getting an older GR-20. It'll suit my needs better. 🙏

[@imaginableAudio]

Is it viable live or too finicky for live use?????

[@jeffnelson103]

I'm test-driving a sy 1000. I play a godin nylon. I want 12 string, jazz, nylon, etc. Is gr55 a better option? Is there a newer gr version in the pipeline?

[@victorhugod387]

I Can't live without it, but I agree with almost everything that you said. Even the exp pedal they should put two. I'm still waiting for the new one.

[@jamesparrish3776]

Agree the patches are goofy. Nothing I would ever use. Using with a Goldin multiac and with dual volume controls hoped wet/dry capabilities, but no. I am however using the GR55.

[@jacobbrown1690]

sy 300. but no foot pedals at all

[@peterschaefer1665]

That's not how people use it. Most people program one bank so three sounds lets say for each song. Then change banks for the next song.

[@peterschaefer1665]

Then the control and expression pedals can be used to automate the presets further by adding effects or modifiers. Otherwise what would the purpose of midi be.

[@RobertVeasquez]

My mom understanding and practice...the Gk3 pickup only accesses banks, not individual patches. In live settings, if I need two patches, I have to place them n different banks. For xample, Flute would be 1-1....another patch would be in 2-1. That way way I Press the GK3 it will jump from 1-1 to the 2.1. It will not go from 1.1 to 1.2. Unless there is a way to program it that I am not aware of it..which could be the case.

[@psoodo2008]

Also, the tempo is lost when you change patches so if you configure multiple patches for one song you need to program the tempo as well in order to use sync'd effects like delay. It really sucks that they don't allow direct 1/4" guitar input to use as an effects pedal. Kennis thanks for all the videos you've made on this. I just ordered the Meloaudio controller and can't wait to have stomp box mode. What a HUGE oversight on Roland's part on these many features, regardless of the reason. For the price I am quite disappointed in this product. There are things that I love about it, but I would not recommend it.

[@milkdud3618]

Can you research the Tight Tele Stack. Exp On Mod settings? The max setting is an unknown code. Maybe you know someone who can explain.

[@nealixd.3011]

I have the Roland GR-33 for many years and probably will stick with that and the older Roland VG8 Guitar System (for guitar models and effects). You did one thing right for sure, you got a Godin "three voice" guitar. I have the 1999 Godin LGXT in Pearl Black, and a similar year Godin LGX-SA hardtail in a rare cherry sunburst. The SA needs a new 13 pin receptacle. Finding a local repair shop is not easy for such an uncommon Canadian guitar. If I had to sell my many guitars, I probably would keep the LGXT, it just oozes quality and does so much. Although it's a bolt neck, it is as good as any Gibson Les Paul I have owned, plus has two single coil tones. Then you get the amazing acoustic guitar sound and the synthesizer circuit with plenty of controls for everything. With a great push pull whammy, and superb playability, it's just an amazing guitar. I have played it and the GR-33 out on a lot of long, paid gigs since 2001.

[@nealixd.3011]

That GR-55 sounds like a lot of trouble. My GR-33 covers most of the bases for what I need, to make my guitar sound like other instruments. The key for me is to pre-program my most used patches in a readily available bank and quickly switch through those from the momentary switch on the Godin. I found about seven patches did most of everything I need out on the gig for 60-70s pop-rock/dance music.

[@artiefischel2579]

The 13 pin cable seems very fragile compared to 1/4" . The cables are also expensive because they are proprietary. I bet anyone that came up with a 13 pin Blutooth wireless unit would make a mint. It's nice that grfloorboard exists but Roland should have included a web app available via the USB/MIDI interface to accomplish the same thing. That's fairly standard on configurable USB connected devices. You're absolutely correct about the patch selection interface. It makes no sense that I can change banks on the GK-3 but then have to go to the stomp switches to select the patch in that bank, or twirl the rotary select. The fact that in a MIDI setting none of the patches can be used is annoying. The first rule of digital devices is: make it hackable and encourage hacking. You will get a fan community and a cottage industry around your product that supports niche features you can't afford to work on. Roland is thinking like an old school stomp box company when they should be thinking like a computer company.

[@justsomeguy1074]

The reason, I believe, you can't plug in a 1/4" cable to use the effects is the unit needs a digital signal provided by the gk3 pickup.

[@d.h.9239]

hmmm I dunno man... I don't think you are coming at this pedal from the right angle. For one, this pedal pretty much requires a midi controller like the Behringer FCB1010. Even if it had say 4 switches on there, it wouldn't be close to enough. I don't think its fair to complain about the number of switches or what they do because you really should be getting a midi controller anyway. I also don't see the purpose of the fx loop. It has its own built in fx loop that you can move pretty much anywhere and putting a distortion pedal or any other pedal you normally put in front of the amp before it just seems kinda useless and I dont think would sound all that great tbh. Just use an A/B switch to route to remedy your complaint about what if you have to use another guitar that does not have the GK. This pedal is like a brain that you need to buy a body for it separately. I would prefer to choose the body (ie type of midi controller I want) myself anyway. Also, I think the menu interface is "there if you need it." It should be set up on the computer.

[@joebowbeer]

I'm curious to hear your thoughts on the SY-1000

[@mikhailyakunkinakaslowmick1171]

Dear Kennis. ... Thank You for your professional and friendly review of GR-55. I am user of GR-55 for a few years and agree with Your critics in regards of GR-55 philosophy for pedals and for three rudimental banks of patches, though they helped me a lot in the very beginning. But in any way today GR-55 is one of my favourite tools in music hobby. ... Your introduction of Send and Return sockets was kind of interesting improvement of RG-55. If possible, could you please provide more technical data about electronics wiring inside GR-55. Was it home made or in some specialised lab? May be You can download a video, where You use this Send and Return sound processing channel. ... Sorry for asking too much. ... My Best Regards

[@michaelbeyer3581]

I am so glad i saw this video. I'll just keep my Gr-20 with my Line 6 Standard and keep waiting for something better from some other company, or....

[@davidpatrick1813]

I have a godin AS system and sorta looking for a synth... when you say the 33 does more ... I'll go look ... but what would you recommend. I would like to record on a pc too so might need to interlace it, ... does only the 55 do that and others do not?

[@mickdebergerac1143]

Hey Kennis, thanks for all the vids and info, it's good of you to give your time, I appreciate it. Just a question, I notice a lot of people change the pickups in the XTSA, why did you and which pups did you choose?

[@Thebriwac]

Also what pickups did you switch to and why? Brian P.S> you meant the electric not the one under the bridge, correct?

[@Corey_G]

What about assigning each pedal to midi control assign to a function like on or off on an effect etc.....

[@stevenshockley4237]

You're the reason I didn't have to read the manual haha, and you initially sparked my interest in this synth, i use it for all my songs. It's what's making my first album.

[@JimsMusicJourney]

Do you think Roland is planning on putting out an updated/new version of this unit anytime soon

[@steveyraynelson]

I've been using guitar synths for around 30 years. I get it. I'm just now going to the GR-33. I'm Not onboard with the all in one thing. AND I'm gonna put together a performance DVD on how to use these things. Stay tuned.

[@tberrardy]

Steve Nelson I used the GR 33 for years and I’m sorry I sold it!

[@neilreynard]

Apparently you can assign 8 different effect levels (on/off or various levels with exp pedal) to the 3 ways of switching (exp pedal/pedal on off and CTRL. It would be easier to have 8 seperate switches but it's not as bad as just having the control switch.

[@richardchristensen1768]

After having so much fun with my GR20 which i used with my pedal multi effects modeler I couldnt wait to jump into the GR55 and then sold my GR20 Thats when the fun ended for me Maybe if i loved all of the hours and hours of programming and tweaking trying to figure out what sounds i wanted and or liked best i mightve loved it but i gotta say i just never loved all the tweaking and started really missing what it was like just playing my instrument That was over 5 years ago I love the GR20 and just scored one today in mint condition with the GK3 for $180 and am stoked!!!!

[@cristhiamnavarro6417]

Like your video! Roland should be improve this Synth, assuming the cost of this one, it should be more practical with many functions and post tutorials about its settings. Roland think more in the musicians

[@UnknownHumanoid]

When will they release a new one?

[@garethbull2226]

A new unit similar to the GR-55 was announced in Dec 2019, the BOSS SY-1000. We don't know what all of the features of the SY-1000 are yet but from the official specs plus a few early demo vids of it, it looks like it has most of the best features of the GR-55 and SY-300 combined in one unit. Official price announced by Roland/Boss is US $1000. It should be in stores around late Jan/early Feb this year.

[@edbyerly1]

@@garethbull2226 Great! ....now that I bought the GR55... lol

[@garethbull2226]

@@edbyerly1 I wouldn't worry that much, even with the SY-1000 on the market for a couple of years now, the GR-55 is still a current product. To be honest I'm actually confused about what's going on in Roland/Boss with guitar synths. Roland have the GR-55 and Boss (a branch of Roland) have the GP-10, SY-1, SY-200, SY-300, SY-1000 and the GS-1 Eurus guitar (it's an electric guitar with a synth built into the guitar). That's SEVEN different guitar synths on the market at the same time from the same company (Roland/Boss). I'm actually tempted to get an SY-200 to add to my collection (I know it's much more limited than the GR-55 or SY-300).

[@SixStringSteve]

I just got my Roland Guitar Synth I bought in 2005 out of the attic and have tried to crank it up again. There is delay between plucking a note and hearing it, which I didn't notice when I first had it. I've noticed on other GR55 reviews that others have complained about this - obviously it makes the machine utterly useless. Anyone else had this problem? Is my machine faulty?

[@dancassidy7471]

Reset back to factory

[@laouterakhs]

Hi Kennis,a great video saying a lot of things that needed to be said about the now quite mature GR55 in a world where needs change more rapidly than products. Gotta say my GR55 stays home more and more often because of several of the drawbacks you point out. In doing so I have realised just how good and how percussive and bright the Godin XTSA is on it's own without the synth making it more like a keyboard - my drummer particularly appreciates that. However it is also nice to be able to totally replicate a concert grand piano. but when it comes to me wanting the percussiveness of a 330 guitar along with a Vox Continental organ,splitting the output sounds through an amp and the PA and ever getting it right is a nightmare,that outputs situation is mainly why the GR55 stays at home and the piano songs have to make do with a nice sounding beautiful clean guitar via the PA with no claptrap to caryy,wire and set up.A big shame as at home I can take the time to use even a bass amp,guitar amp and the studio PA/monitors to create an entire orchestra so good that folk cannot believe one guy is doing that live in real time - BUT - just try getting that anything like right out live on stages doing several different numbers in a set with no time in between. So I hear you loud and clear Kennis,I hope Roland Boss do too! I will also be very interested to hear comments from other users too as to how they get around the problems and how they think the next generation GR55 should be. Bravo! Baz

[@stimpsonjcat67]

Which pickups did you replace the stock ones with on the xtSA?

[@Scott__C]

Kennis, great video. I don't understand some of the other choices. I also tried the GP-10, which looked great and the guitar stuff in it is great (the 12 string sounds are fabulous), but the synth stuff was limited. One of my pet peeves with their guitar stuff, and they just corrected this with the GT-1000: non-balanced outputs. If I'm going direct, I'd want to have XLR outs but at least TRS balanced outs. I hope they do come out with some new hardware synth for guitar.

[@Scott__C]

Thanks for the reply, Kennis. The GP-10 is more analog synth stuff, so no PCM sounds like piano, etc., but the acoustic guitar sounds are really good, particularly the 12 string sounds. Sweetwater had a video where Skunk Baxter did a demo of it. kzbin.info?search_query=sweetwater+gp-10

[@Robeuten]

own mine for a decade, but only recently learned that tracking (in particular on my 8-string Conklin) could be improved by adding a (quite cheap) subsonic filter wich dramatically improves tracking with piezo pickups... not needed for the original Roland magnetic pickup, but... for me, about 75 Euro (with VAT and shipping) worth the game!

[@bellalagossi9779]

What do you think of the new Sy-1000 ? They finally put the editor for pc Mac on it. I’m currently selling my gr55 to get a 1000

[@smitlag]

Great analysis! Yes ! why do they fill up these units with garbage presets? Why one control pedal? It's a synthesizer that you have very little control of outside of programming the initial patch. The guitar processor is pretty good but there are plenty of other units that do that. It is a unit that doesn't do anything exceptionally well.

[@allansmith5894]

He is absolutely right!!! I abandoned Roland synths and went with the Fishman Triple Play system... Roland dropped the ball with this!!!

[@Thebriwac]

I need a guitar synth or interface to write to Finale for notation, need the 13 pin output. Going to use the Roland Multiac AS system guitar. What do you recommend? Maybe get the GR-33? Brian [e-mail]

[@roystonjames7794]

I have had a GR55 for a long time, I even bought 2 GC1 Roland/fender guitars, yes your right the gr55 is a quirky device, never been 100 % happy with it, 2 years on and my GC1 guitars need parts due to road damage from gigging, Roland nor Fender could supply me with any spares passing me back and forth between the companys saying you need to go to Roland you need to go fender. Truth is they had fell out i was told, so I F$%^ed Fender off out of my life having been a Fender fanboy all my life, and bought 2 Godins. I still use the GR55 I have modded it with Midi controller so i can send a midi command to the hold function, It sits at the back behind my amp controlled by a Line 6 Helix via midi. Glad you got your channel back up and running

[@kenr.b.891]

My wish list for the GR55 would be for the ROM sample sounds to track as well as well as the modeling sounds. I'm super impressed with how it tracks when playing the models, but playing the ROM samples is frustrating and they are often unusable.

[@michaelhiser9351]

Wish I would have seen this video sooner I could have helped you. Literally everything you have described that you hate/ don't like about this unit can be done using the gk3 pickup. ABSOLUTELY love mine.

[@Doomzdayxx]

I was considering getting one. It will be a studio/casual jam piece most likely. something to tinker with for fun. knowing my luck, roland will release and newer better model right after i buy mine.

[@Master9754-x4b]

Can you explain how you have fixed these issues using the GK3 pickup. Thanks so much Michael.

[@kevinlayden1551]

Thank u. Makes me realize I should stay with my current set up(BOSS GT 5 & Roland GR 30) instead of buying the totally lacking GR 55. I mean I want those new features and sounds and probably responsiveness however. With my Godin LGX SA I run the synth into 2 inputs for stereo through 13 pin connector, the processor sounds go into 2 more inputs for stereo from the first 1/4" plug and the piezo acoustic sound through the second 1/4" plug uses a fifth mono input. Midi out runs Logic Pro X Instruments for a Total of Four separate sounds I can blend or isolate at once from playing the guitar. And I Have no shortage of control pedals. Brilliant! I love and live with Roland and BOSS products so here's hoping they are listening. Cheers to them and you and everyone...

[@paulstubbs4487]

I used a GT-8 slave to a GR-20 for a while which was great and upgraded to the "all in one" GR-55 about 3 months after it came out. It was tough to get around it (probably took 6 months of rehearsals and tweaking patches/assigns) but by the time we got gigging it was awesome and so much more than the GR-20 or GR-33. I had a GK-3 equipped Strat with a Graphtech Piezo bridge for the acoustics. Great set up for covers work. It's quirky and flawed but brilliant all the same. Just like Roland !!

[@Jmyster4]

I bought my GR-55 partially because of you years back. I bought it when I was 14 as a gift to myself. Mainly because I had cheap gear up to that point, and figured instead of getting a $$$ cab, $$$ pedals and a bunch of new guitars, this thing seemed to do all of those things in one package. Hooked it up to $400 ibanez guitar, and while I had a lot of fun with it, I think it heavily stunted me. Everything I recorded or played left a sour taste in my mouth. To this day it still sounds bad, and I kinda wish I didn't buy it because it turns me off playing electric. I guess on in a positive way it made me play more acoustic.