Owner’s Manual

Main features
5 Provides numerous vocal effects for the guitarist

5 HARMONY automatically adds harmony to your vocal, based on your guitar playing

5 VOCODER uses your voice to add expressive power to your guitar performance

5 ENHANCE improves the clarity of your sound

5 PITCH CORRECT corrects inaccuracies in pitch

5 Four independent general-purpose FX units provide 20 distinctive effect types such as DISTORTION
and RADIO, and there are also two independent REVERB/DELAY units, giving you a high degree of
flexibility for making effect settings

5 Panel layout that provides high functionality and emphasizes live performance, with an easily
readable screen display and an independent [HARMONY] switch

5 Memory function lets you store and recall 99 setups in internal memory

5 By connecting a USB cable or MIDI cable, you can synchronize the unit with an external MIDI device
or a DAW on your computer, or switch sounds and control parameters

Owner’s Manual (this document)

Read this first. It explains the basic things you need to know in order to use the VE-500. For detailed information
on how to operate the VE-500, please download and refer to “Parameter Guide” (PDF file).

PDF Manual (download from the Web)

5 Parameter Guide
To obtain the PDF manual
This explains all of the parameters of the 1. Enter the following URL on your
VE-500. computer.
http://www.boss.info/manuals/
?
2. Choose “VE-500” as the product name.

Before using this unit, carefully read “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (the leaflet “USING THE
UNIT SAFELY” and the Owner’s Manual (p. 20)). After reading, keep the document(s) where it will be available for
immediate reference.
© 2018 Roland Corporation
 Contents
Getting Ready . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 System Settings (MENU). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Connecting the Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . 3 Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Connecting the Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . 4 Adjusting the Display Contrast. . . . . . . . 17
Top Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Enabling/Disabling the Auto-Off
Screen Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Operation of the [1]–[3] Knobs. . . . . . . . 7 Returning to the Factory Settings
Switching Pages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 (Factory Reset). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Turning On/Off the Power. . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Tuning (Tuner). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Synchronizing with a DAW or
External MIDI Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Playing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Installing the USB Driver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Mic Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Installing the Dedicated Software . . . . . 18
Adjusting the Mic Sensitivity . . . . 9
Phantom Power Settings. . . . . . . . 9
Appendix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Patch Structure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Error Messages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Switching Between Memory and Attaching the Rubber Feet. . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Manual Modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Main Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Switching Patches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Adding a Harmony Effect. . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 USING THE UNIT SAFELY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
About the Play Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
IMPORTANT NOTES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Editing a Patch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Changing the Effect Connections. 12
Changing the CTL & ASSIGN
Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Matching the Harmony to the
Key of the Song. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Saving a Patch (Write). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Exchanging Patches. . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Initializing a Patch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

* To prevent malfunction and equipment failure, always turn down the volume, and turn off all the units before
making any connections.
* The power to this unit will be turned off automatically after a predetermined amount of time has passed since it
was last used for playing music, or its buttons or controls were operated (Auto Off function).If you do not want
the power to be turned off automatically, disengage the Auto Off function (“Enabling/Disabling the Auto-Off
Function” (p. 17)).
5 Any settings that you are in the process of editing will be lost when the power is turned off. If you have any
settings that you want to keep, you should save them beforehand.
5 To restore power, turn the power on again (p. 8).

2
 Getting Ready
Connecting the Equipment
INST INPUT jack MIC IN connector MIDI IN connector
Connect your electric guitar or Connect your mic here. If you Connect an external MIDI device
other instrument here. connect a condenser mic, turn here. The VE-500 can receive
HARMONY or VOCODER effects phantom power on as described program change messages, and
are applied to your vocal in “Phantom Power Settings” synchronize its tempo with a
according to your guitar playing. (p. 9). The VE-500 is equipped MIDI device.
with a balanced (XLR) connector.

MIC IN connector
pin configuration
TIP: HOT
RING: COLD 2: HOT 1: GND 1: GND 2: HOT
SLEEVE: GND

3: COLD 3: COLD

O (MICRO USB) port

Use a micro USB cable to connect
your computer here. This allows
MIDI and audio signals to be
exchanged.
* Do not use a micro USB cable that
is designed only for charging a
device. Charge-only cables cannot
transmit data.

INST THRU jack OUTPUT L, R connectors DC IN jack

Connect your guitar amp or effect Connect these connectors to your Connect the AC adaptor here.
unit here. PA mixer, etc. These connectors * Use only the included AC
* The signal that enters the INST output the signal processed by the adaptor (PSA-S series), and
INPUT jack is output from here. effects. The VE-500 is equipped with make sure that the AC outlet
balanced (XLR) connectors. is the correct voltage for the
* The sound of the guitar is not output. adaptor.

[GND LIFT] switch

In some cases, you might hear “ground loop hum” (a buzz or hum) when the VE-500 is connected to an external device.
If this occurs, changing the setting of the [GND LIFT] switch might lessen the problem. Normally you’ll leave this switch
in the NOR (NORMAL) position.
OUTPUT connector pin
Switch Explanation configuration
TIP: HOT
NOR Pin 1 of the OUTPUT jacks is connected to the VE-500’s
RING:GND.
COLD 2: HOT 1: GND 1: GND 2: HOT
SLEEVE: GND
LIFT Pin 1 of the OUTPUT jacks is disconnected from the VE-500’s GND.
3: COLD 3: COLD

3
Getting Ready
Connecting the Equipment

CTL 1, 2 / EXP jack pin

configuration

TIP: HOT
RING: COLD 2: HOT
SLEEVE: GND

3: CO

CTL 1, 2/EXP jacks

You can control various parameters by connecting a footswitch (FS-5U, FS-5L, FS-6, FS-7: sold separately)
or an expression pedal (such as the FV-500H, FV-500L, EV-30, Roland EV-5: sold separately) to the CTL 1,
2/EXP jack (p. 13)

When Connecting an FS-5U When Connecting Two FS-5Us

(or FS-5L) (or FS-5Ls)

1/4” phone type Stereo 1/4” phone type

,1/4” phone type ,1/4” phone type x 2

When connecting an FS-5L, set MODE of

CTL IN1 / CTL IN2 to “MOMENT” (p. 13).

POLARITY switch

CTL 1 CTL 2 CTL 1

When Connecting an FS-6 When Connecting an FS-7 When connecting expression pedal
* Use only the specified
Stereo 1/4” phone type Stereo 1/4” phone type expression pedal (FV-500H,
,Stereo 1/4” phone type ,Stereo 1/4” phone F-500L, EV-30, Roland EV-5;
type sold separately). By connecting
any other expression pedals,
you risk causing malfunction
and/or damage to the unit.

EXP

CTL 2 CTL 1

MODE/POLARITY switch MODE/POLARITY switch

4
 Getting Ready
Top Panel

4 5

Display [EXIT] button

1 Cancels an operation or returns to the previous
This shows various information for the VE-500.
[1]–[3] knob screen.
Select and edit the parameter values shown in the [ENTER] ( [PAGE >] ) button
3 Press this to confirm an operation.
display.
5 In screens that show page tabs, use this as the
* Refer to “Operation of the [1]–[3] Knobs” (p. 7)
2 [PAGE >] button to switch pages.
* If the lock function is on, the [1]–[3] knobs are
5 In the play screen, use this to switch the display.
disabled in the play screen (p. 10) to prevent
unintended operation. For more about the lock [?] [=] switch
function, refer to “Parameter Guide” (PDF). In memory mode, use these switches to select
4 patches. In manual mode, use these switches to
[EFFECT EDIT] ( [ON/OFF] ) button operate the assigned function (with the factory
settings, these turn FX1 and FX2 on/off ).
Makes patch settings. When editing, this button [HARMONY] switch
turns on/off the selected effect. Turns harmony on/off.
5 Press the [=] and [HARMONY] switches
5
3 [KEY]([< PAGE]) button simultaneously to bypass the effect.

Specifies the key of the harmony. 5 Long-press the [=] and [HARMONY] switches
simultaneously to access the tuner screen.
5 In screens that show page tabs, use this as the
[< PAGE] button to switch pages.
[MENU] button
Lets you make system settings.

The function of each switch can be freely assigned

in “CTL & ASSIGN SETTING” (p. 13). The color of
the indicator changes depending on the specified
function.

5
Getting Ready
Screen Structure
System settings (p. 16) WRITE UTILITY screen (p. 14)
Use the [< PAGE] Use the [1]–[3] knobs to move the cursor
[PAGE >] buttons to
change pages

Use the [1]–[3] knobs to

move the cursor
MENU screen (p. 16)

Play screen (p. 10)

Memory mode
Press [?] + [=]
simultaneously

Use [ENTER] button to switch pages Manual mode

Tuner screen (p. 8)

[=] + [HARMONY] Hold for two seconds

Patch edit (p. 11)

Effect select screen (p. 11) Use the [1]–[3] knobs to move the cursor

Use the [1]–[3] knobs Use the [1]–[3] knobs

to move the cursor to move the cursor

HARMONY / VOCODER Screen (p. 11) CTL & ASSIGN screen (p. 13)

Use the [< PAGE] Use the [< PAGE]

[PAGE >] buttons to [PAGE >] buttons to
change pages change pages

6
 Getting Ready
Operation of the [1]–[3] Knobs
5 In the play screen (p. 10), the [1]–[3] knobs 5 In the CTL & ASSIGN screen (p. 13), WRITE
correspond to the functions that are assigned UTILITY screen (p. 15), and MENU screen
by “System settings” -> “KNOB” (p. 16). (p. 16), you can move the cursor and select an
icon by operating any knob.

5 In the effect select screen (p. 11), the [1]–[3]

knobs have the following functions.
[1] knob [2] knob [3] knob
Move cursor Turn effect on/off Select effect type 5 In screens where knob or switch icons are
shown, the [1]–[3] knobs correspond to those
icons.

OFF#ON

Switching Pages
5 When page tabs are displayed on the screen, you can switch pages by pressing the [< PAGE] [PAGE >]
buttons.

7
Getting Ready
Turning On/Off the Power
The DC IN jack also functions as the power switch. The power turns on when you insert the AC adaptor’s
plug into the DC IN jack, and turns off when you disconnect it.
* Before turning the unit on/off, always be sure to turn the volume down. Even with the volume turned down, you might hear
some sound when switching the unit on/off. However, this is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.
* Before you make connections, make sure that the input gain or volume of your mixer, recorder or amplifier is turned down.
To turn the power on
Power-on in the following order: this unit (plug in the AC adaptor) 0 connected devices 0 amp.
To turn the power off
Power-off in the following order: amp 0 connected devices 0 this unit (unplug the AC adaptor).

Tuning (Tuner)
1. Simultaneously long-press (two Specifying the reference pitch
seconds or longer) the [=] switch and Turn knob [1] to change the tuner’s reference
[HARMONY] switch. pitch.
* Changing the tuner’s reference pitch also changes
the reference pitch for the harmony.
PITCH
435–445 Hz (default: 440 Hz)

Tuner Source
Turn knob [2] to select the input signal that is
The tuner screen appears. detected by the tuner.
SOURCE Explanation
MIC Tune the mic
INST Tune the guitar
INST&M Tune both guitar and mic

2. Play your guitar or input your voice, and Output settings

tune your instrument. Tune so that only Turn knob [3] to specify how the vocal sound is
the indicator in the center of the screen output while you’re using the tuner.
is lit. VOCAL OUT Explanation
BYPASS Output with the effects off
DRY Output with ENHANCE applied
Output with ENHANCE and PITCH
LEAD
CORRECT applied
MUTE Output is muted
3. When you finish tuning, once again
long-press the [=] switch and
[HARMONY] switch simultaneously.

8
 Playing
Mic Settings Patch Structure
A combination of VE-500 effects and settings for
those effects is called a “patch.”
Adjusting the Mic Sensitivity You can edit the settings of a patch and store it as
a “user patch.”
1. Press the [MENU] button. Preset patch User patch
Patch P50 Patch U99

Patch P03 Patch U03

Patch P02 Patch U02
Patch P01 Patch U01
2. Use the [1] knob to select “INPUT,” and HARMONY (VOCODER)
ENHANCE
HARMONY (VOCODER)
ENHANCE
then press the [ENTER] button. PITCH CORRECT
FX1 / FX2 / FX3 / FX4
PITCH CORRECT
FX1 / FX2 / FX3 / FX4
REVERB1/ REVERB2 REVERB1/ REVERB2
3. Use knob [1] to adjust the sensitivity of CTL / MASTER / LOOP CTL / MASTER / LOOP

the mic.

Switching Between Memory and Manual

Modes
Triangular mark

Adjust the mic sensitivity appropriately while Memory mode

watching the level meter in the screen. In this mode you can recall and use patches that
* The appropriate sensitivity is when the loudest are saved in the VE-500’s memory. Use the [?]
input sound reaches the approximate position of and [=] switches to select a patch.
the triangular mark.
MIC SENS Manual mode
0–200 (default: 100) In this mode you can operate the functions that
are assigned to the [?] and [=] switches.

Phantom Power Settings 1. Press the [?] switch and [=] switch
simultaneously.
4. If you’re using a condenser mic, use
knob [3] to turn “PHANTOM” on.

PHANTOM Explanation
OFF Phantom power off
ON Phantom power on Memory mode Manual mode

5. Press the [EXIT] button a number of Each time you press these, you alternate
times to return to the play screen. between memory mode and manual mode.

9
Playing
Switching Patches About the Play Screen
The screen that appears after you turn on the
1. Switch to memory mode.
power is called the “Play screen.”
2. Use the [?] [=] switches to select a Press the [ENTER] button to switch the display.
patch.
Pressing [?] selects the previous patch number, and Patch Number Master BPM PHANTOM
Patch Name Key Setting power on
pressing [=] selects the next patch number.
Knob
Lock on

Patch down Patch up [1] [2] [3]

Parameters edited by the three knobs

Patch Number Master BPM PHANTOM

Patch Name Key Setting power on
You can turn knob [1] to select patches consecutively. Knob
Lock on

* You can’t switch patches unless you’re in the Play

screen (next item). Press the [EXIT] button to return
to the Play screen, and then switch patches. Parameters assigned to the switches
[?] [=] [HARMONY]

Adding a Harmony Effect

1. Press the [HARMONY] switch to make Effect type
the indicator light.
A harmony effect is applied.

Patch Number Master BPM

Key Setting

Try singing while you play your guitar, and

notice the harmony effect.
* A function other than turning the harmony effect
on/off can also be assigned to the [HARMONY]
switch (p. 13).

10
 Editing a Patch
Effect Explanation
Basic Operation
Improves the clarity of the sound.
1. Recall the patch that you want to edit
Corrects inaccuracies in pitch. This is
(p. 10). available only when HRM (harmony)
is selected.
2. Press the [EFFECT EDIT] button.
HRM: Adds harmony to your vocal.
VOC: A vocoder effect.
These let you select a variety of
– effect types. You can also choose the
The effect select screen appears. same effect for FX1–FX4.

These let you select reverb or delay.

Overdub-record additional sound,

and play it back as a loop.

3. Use knob [1] to select the effect that Adjust the tonal character of
patches, and make other settings.
you want to edit.
Refer to “Changing the CTL/ASSIGN
Settings” (p. 13).

MEMO
For FX1–4, and HRM (VOC), you can use knob
You can use the [EFFECT EDIT] ([ON/OFF])
[3] to choose the effect type.
button or knob [2] to turn on/off the effect
where the cursor is located (highlighted).

An effect that is on is shown by an icon. An effect that

is off is shown as “OFF.”

4. Press the [ENTER] button to access the

For details on the parameter, refer to the edit screen.
“Parameter Guide” (PDF file).

MEMO
In the edit screen, press the [ON/OFF] button
to turn the effect on/off. This lets you hear
what the effect does.

11
Editing a Patch
In screens where page tabs are displayed, FX STRUCTURE
use the [< PAGE] [PAGE >] buttons to move
between editing screen pages. STRUCTURE1: SERIES

LEAD Multi-FX

HARMONY1
FX1 FX2 FX3 FX4 FX OUT1
HARMONY2
5. Use knobs [1]–[3] to specify the value of
each parameter shown in the screen. HARMONY3

STRUCTURE2: PARA+SER

LEAD FX1 Multi-FX

HARMONY1 FX3 FX4 FX OUT1

6. Press the [EXIT] button a number of FX2

HARMONY2
times to return to the play screen.
HARMONY3

Changing the Effect Connections STRUCTURE3: 2PARALLEL

1. In the effect select screen, choose “MST.” LEAD

Multi-FX
FX1 FX2 FX OUT1

HARMONY1

HARMONY2 FX3 FX4 FX OUT2

2. Use “FX STRUCTURE” to change the
HARMONY3
order in which FX1–FX4 are connected.
3. Use “REVERB STRUCTURE” to change STRUCTURE4: 4PARALLEL
the order in which REV1 and REV2 are
connected. LEAD FX1
Multi-FX
FX OUT1
The effect connection changes.
HARMONY1 FX2 FX OUT2

FX3
HARMONY2 FX OUT3

HARMONY3 FX4
FX OUT4

Output Explanation
Output the sound with ENHANCE and
LEAD
PITCH CORRECT applied
HARMONY1 Output the harmony sound
HARMONY2 Output the harmony sound
HARMONY3 Output the harmony sound

12
 Editing a Patch
REVERB STRUCTURE Changing the CTL & ASSIGN Settings
STRUCTURE1: SERIES
You can operate a variety of parameters by
making CTL and ASSIGN settings for each patch.
FX OUT1 Reverb
1. In the effect select screen, use knobs
FX OUT2 REV/DLY1
[1]–[3] to select “CTL,” and then press
the [ENTER] button.
FX OUT3
REV/DLY2 FX OUT The CTL & ASSIGN screen appears.
FX OUT4

STRUCTURE2: PARALLEL

FX OUT1
REV/DLY1
Reverb 2. Use knobs [1]–[3] to select the
controller that you want to edit.
FX OUT2 FX OUT
An icon indicates controllers that are turned
REV/DLY2 on. Controllers that are off are indicated by
FX OUT3
“OFF.”
FX OUT4 Controller Explanation
Specifies the parameter that is
controlled by the [?] and [=]
STRUCTURE3: SEPARATE – switches when in Memory mode.
* This works only in Memory mode.
FX OUT1 REV/DLY1 Reverb Specifies the parameter that is
controlled by the [?] ([FX1]) and
FX OUT2 – [=] ([FX2]) switches when in Manual
FX OUT
mode.
FX OUT3 REV/DLY2 * This works only in Manual mode.
Specifies the parameter that is
FX OUT4 controlled by the [HARMONY]
switch.
Specifies the parameter that is
controlled by an expression pedal
(EXP) connected to the CTL 1, 2/
EXP jack.

Specifies the parameter that is

controlled by a footswitch (CTL 1–2)
–

connected to the CTL 1, 2/EXP jack.

Specifies the parameter that is

controlled by pressing the [?] and
[=] switches simultaneously.
Specifies the parameter that
is controlled by pressing the
[=] and [HARMONY] switches
simultaneously.

13
Editing a Patch
Controller Explanation
ASSIGN allows you to make more
Matching the Harmony to the Key of the Song
detailed settings.For example,
you can use ASSIGN if you want 1. Press the [KEY] button.
to simultaneously control another
–

parameter in addition to operating

the parameter of the [?] switch.
You can specify eight different
settings for each patch.
2. Use knob [1] to specify the “AUTO”
Make common settings for “ASSIGN.”
setting.
If Auto is set to “FULL” or “HYBRID,” the key
is specified automatically according to the
3. Press the [ENTER] button to move to the chords and the chord progression that you
edit screen. play on the connected guitar.
AUTO Explanation
Harmony is added according to the
FULL chords and the chord progression that
you play on your guitar.
In screens that show page tabs, use the [< Harmony is added according to the
HYBRID “KEY” setting and the chords that you
PAGE] [PAGE >] buttons to switch between edit play on your guitar.
screen pages. Harmony is added according to the
OFF
“KEY” setting.
4. Use knobs [1]–[3] to edit the parameter
values in the screen. * Try the FULL setting, and if you don’t get the
harmony that you expect, use the HYBRID setting. If
you’re not using a guitar, turn this OFF and specify
the key.
3. Use knob [2] to specify the “KEY.”
* As shown in the illustration below, specify the key of
the song that you’re singing.
(Example) If you’re singing a song in A minor, set the
5. Press the [EXIT] button a number of key to the relative key of “C.”
times to return to the play screen.

4. Press the [EXIT] button a number of

times to return to the play screen.

You can also add harmony according to note

data that’s input via the MIDI IN connector.

14
 Editing a Patch
* If you decide to cancel, press the [EXIT] button.
Saving a Patch (Write) Once the patch has been saved, you
If you want to save the patch that you created, arereturned to the Play screen.
execute the Write operation.
* You can use dedicated software to save,
Exchanging Patches
exchange, initialize, or back up patches (p. 18). Here’s how to exchange the currently selected
NOTE patch with a patch that you specify.

5 If you do not save the patch, the edited 1. In the WRITE UTILITY screen, select
settings will be lost when you turn off the “EXCHANGE” and press the [ENTER]
power or switch to another patch. button.
5 When you save, the patch that had been in the
save-destination is overwritten.
2. Choose the exchange-destination patch
with the [1] knob.
1. Press the [EXIT] button and [ENTER]
button simultaneously.

3. To exchange the patches, press the

The WRITE UTILITY screen appears. [ENTER] button.
* If you decide to cancel, press the [EXIT] button.
Once the patches has been exchanged, you are
returned to the Play screen.

2. Select “WRITE” and then press the Initializing a Patch

[ENTER] button. Here’s how to return the selected patch to the
3. Choose the patch write destination default values.
(U01–U99) with the [1] knob, and press 1. In the WRITE UTILITY screen, select
the [ENTER] button. “INITIALIZE” and press the [ENTER]
button.
2. Choose the initialize-destination patch
with the [1] knob.
Here you can edit the name.
Controller Operation
[1] knob Changes the character
[2] knob Moves the cursor
[3] knob Selects the type of characters
3. To initialize the patch, press the [ENTER]
[EFFECT EDIT] Delete the character at the cursor
button location
button.
Insert a space at the cursor * If you decide to cancel, press the [EXIT] button.
[MENU] button
location
Once the patch has been initialized, you are
returned to the Play screen.
4. To save the patch, press the [ENTER]
button.

15
 System Settings (MENU)
Settings that are shared by the entire VE-500 are Item Explanation
called “system settings.”
Refer to “Restoring the Factory Default
For details on the parameter, refer to the Settings (Factory Reset)” (p. 17).
“Parameter Guide” (PDF file).

3. Press the [ENTER] button to enter the

Basic Operation edit screen.

1. Press the [MENU] button.

When page tabs are displayed on the screen,

you can switch pages by pressing the [<PAGE]
The MENU screen appears. [PAGE>] buttons.

4. Use the [1]–[3] knobs to edit the value

of the parameters shown in the screen.

2. Choose the item that you want to edit.

Item Explanation

Adjust the contrast of the display.

Make input-related settings.

5. Press the [EXIT] button a number of
times to return to the play screen.
* There is no Write function for the system settings.
Make output-related settings. When you specify a parameter setting, the change is
saved and applied automatically.
Make settings for the option functions
during performance.

Specify the functions of knobs [1]–[3]

operated in the play screen.
External pedals, and other settings will
have independent settings for each
patch or will share the same settings for
all patches.

This is the tuner screen.

Make MIDI-related settings.

Make USB-related settings.

Refer to “Enabling/Disabling the Auto-

Off Function” (p. 17).

16
 System Settings (MENU)
Adjusting the Display Contrast Returning to the Factory Settings
You can adjust the brightness of the display.
(Factory Reset)
1. In the MENU screen, select “DISPLAY” Restoring the VE-500’s settings to their original
and press the [ENTER] button. factory default settings is referred to as “Factory
Reset.”
2. Adjust the contrast with the [1] knob. Not only can you return all of the settings to the
values in effect when the VE-500 was shipped
from the factory, you can also specify the items to
be reset.
* When you execute “Factory Reset,” the settings you
made will be lost. Save the data you need to your
computer using the dedicated software.
Enabling/Disabling the Auto-Off Function
1. In the MENU screen, choose “F. RST” and
If you set the auto-off function to “On,” the power press the [ENTER] button.
will turn off automatically when 10 hours have
passed since you last played or operated the unit. 2. Choose the type of settings to be
The display will show a message approximately 15 restored to the factory default settings
minutes before the power turns off. with knobs [1] and [3].
* With the factory settings, this is turned “on.” If you
don’t need the power to turn off automatically, turn
this “off.”
* If the power was turned off by the Auto Off
function, disconnect and then reconnect the AC
adaptor to turn the power on again. Parameter Value Explanation
[1] knob
1. In the MENU screen, select “AUTO OFF” SYSTEM System parameter settings
and press the [ENTER] button. FROM Settings for Patch
U01–U99
Numbers U01–U50
2. Set the On (AUTO OFF) or OFF with the [3] knob
[1] knob. SYSTEM System parameter settings
TO Settings for Patch
U01–U99
Numbers U01–U50

3. Press the [ENTER] button.

4. To execute the factory reset, use the
knob to select “OK,” and press the
[ENTER] button.
* If you decide not to execute the factory reset, select
“CANCEL” and press the [ENTER] button.
Once the Factory Reset is complete, you are
returned to the Play screen.

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 Synchronizing with a DAW or External MIDI Device
By transmitting and receiving MIDI messages, the * Control change transmission and reception are
VE-500 can synchronize with a computer or an external specified by the ASSIGN settings. In addition to
MIDI device. For example, you can switch VE-500 receiving control changes, the VE-500 can also
patches from an external MIDI device or DAW, or match transmit them when you operate a switch or the
the tempo. EXP pedal.
If the VE-500 is connected via USB to a computer, you
can also use dedicated software to do the following. For details on the parameter, refer to
the “Parameter Guide” (PDF file).
5 Edit patch settings.
5 Rename patches.
5 Change the order of patches, or replace them.
5 Back up patches and internal settings, or restore the Installing the USB Driver
backed-up settings.
You must install the USB driver before
Connection example connecting to a computer.
Please download the USB driver from the BOSS
website.
Install this special driver before making a USB
connection.
DAW
Download the USB driver from the BOSS website.
For details, refer to Readme.htm which is included
in the download.
&https://www.boss.info/support/

External MIDI device The program you need to use, and the steps you
need to take to install the USB driver will differ
depending on your computer setup, so please
MIDI messages that can be carefully read and refer to the Readme.htm file
transmitted and received that comes with the download.

Patch change
Bank select (CC#0, #32) and program change
Installing the Dedicated Software
Synchronization data You can easily download dedicated software from
Tempo clock (F8) the BOSS website.
& https://www.boss.info/support/
Patch data
System Exclusive messages
For details on how to use the software, refer to the
Other messages Readme.htm file that comes with the download.
Note (receiving only)
Control changes

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 Appendix
Error Messages
Display Problem Action
SENDING BULK DATA Currently transmitting a MIDI bulk dump. -
RECEIVING BULK DATA Currently receiving a MIDI bulk dump. -
Communication from the connected device
has been interrupted. This message is also Check whether the connection cable
MIDI OFFLINE
displayed if the connected device is powered- might be disconnected or broken.
off. This is not a malfunction.
An excessive amount of MIDI data was received
in a short time from an external MIDI device Reduce the amount of MIDI data that is
MIDI BUFFER FULL
connected to the MIDI IN connector, and the being sent to the VE-500.
VE-500 was unable to process it.
USB CONNECTED The USB cable is connected. -
Communication from the connected device
has been interrupted. This message is also Check whether the connection cable
USB DISCONNECTED
displayed if the connected device is powered- might be disconnected or broken.
off. This is not a malfunction.
KNOB IS LOCKED The buttons and knobs are locked. Turn off the lock function.
Execute the factory reset operation
(p. 17). If this does not solve the
MEMORY DAMAGED! User memory is damaged. problem, a malfunction might have
occurred. Consult the nearest Roland
service center.

Attaching the Rubber Feet

You can attach the rubber feet (included) if necessary.
* When turning the unit over, be careful so as to protect the buttons and knobs from damage.
Also, handle the unit carefully; do not drop it.
* Attach the rubber feet correctly. If they are not attached correctly, they could deform or
malfunction.

Main Specifications
BOSS VE-500: Vocal Performer
Power Supply AC Adaptor
Current Draw 310 mA (with phantom power) 210 mA (without phantom power)
170 (W) x 138 (D) x 62 (H) mm
Dimensions
6-3/4 (W) x 5-7/16 (D) x 2-1/2 (H) inches
Weight 860 g 1 lb 15 oz
Display Graphic LCD (132 x 32 dots, backlit LCD)
Accessories AC adaptor: PSA series, Owner’s manual, Leaflet “USING THE UNIT SAFELY,” Rubber Feet x 4
Footswitch: FS-5U, FS-5L
Options
Dual Footswitch: FS-6, FS-7
(sold separately)
Expression Pedal: FV-500H, FV-500L, EV-30, Roland EV-5

* 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms

* This document explains the specifications of the product at the time that the document was issued. For the latest
information, refer to the Roland website.

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 USING THE UNIT SAFELY
WARNING CAUTION CAUTION
Concerning the Auto Off function Keep small items out of the reach of children Precautions concerning use of phantom power
The power to this unit will be turned off To prevent accidental ingestion of supply
automatically after a predetermined amount of the parts listed below, always keep Always turn the phantom
time has passed since it was last used for playing them out of the reach of small power off when connecting any
music, or its buttons or controls were operated children. device other than condenser
(Auto Off function). If you do not want the • Accessories microphones that require
power to be turned off automatically, disengage the Auto Rubber Feet (p. 19) phantom power. You risk causing
Off function (p. 17). damage if you mistakenly supply
phantom power to dynamic
Use only the supplied AC adaptor and the correct microphones, audio playback
voltage devices, or other devices that
Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with don’t require such power. Be sure to check
the unit. Also, make sure the line voltage at the the specifications of any microphone you
installation matches the input voltage specified intend to use by referring to the manual
on the AC adaptor’s body. Other AC adaptors that came with it.
may use a different polarity, or be designed for a different (This instrument’s phantom power: 48 V
voltage, so their use could result in damage, malfunction, DC, 10 mA Max)
or electric shock.

IMPORTANT NOTES
Placement • Use only the specified expression pedal. Licenses/Trademarks
By connecting any other expression
• Depending on the material and pedals, you risk causing malfunction • ASIO is a trademark and software of
temperature of the surface on which and/or damage to the unit. Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH.
you place the unit, its rubber feet may
• Do not use connection cables that
discolor or mar the surface.
contain a built-in resistor. • This product contains eParts integrated
Repairs and Data software platform of eSOL Co.,Ltd. eParts
is a trademark of eSOL Co., Ltd. in Japan.
• Before sending the unit away for repairs,
be sure to make a backup of the data • Roland and BOSS are either registered
stored within it; or you may prefer to trademarks or trademarks of Roland
write down the needed information. Corporation in the United States and/or
Although we will do our utmost to other countries.
preserve the data stored in your unit • Company names and product names
when we carry out repairs, in some appearing in this document are
cases, such as when the memory section registered trademarks or trademarks of
is physically damaged, restoration of their respective owners.
the stored content may be impossible.
Roland assumes no liability concerning
the restoration of any stored content that
has been lost.

Additional Precautions
• Any data stored within the unit can be
lost as the result of equipment failure,
incorrect operation, etc. To protect
yourself against the irretrievable loss
of data, try to make a habit of creating
regular backups of the data you’ve
stored in the unit.
• Roland assumes no liability concerning
the restoration of any stored content
that has been lost.
• Never strike or apply strong pressure to
the display.

20