Roland RC-600 Loop Station Pedal Owner’s Manual

Roland RC-600 Loop Station Pedal

Product Information

The RC-600 is a versatile unit designed for music playback and control. It offers various features and settings to enhance your music experience. This product comes with an Owner’s Manual and a Parameter Guide for comprehensive information on its usage.

How the RC-600 Is Organized

The RC-600 is organized into different sections, including:

• Saving a Memory
• Erasing Data from a Memory
• System Settings
• Connecting to a Computer via USB
• Backing Up or Recovering Data

Owner’s Manual (this document)

This manual provides essential information for using the RC-600. It covers the basic functions and operations of the unit.

Parameter Guide (download from the Web)

The Parameter Guide explains all the parameters of the RC-600 in detail. To access the guide, follow these steps:

1. Visit the following URL on your computer: https://www.boss.info/manuals/
2. Select “RC-600” as the product name.

Product Usage Instructions

Using the Unit Safely
Before using the RC-600, it is crucial to read and understand the safety instructions provided in the leaflet “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” and the Owner’s Manual (p. 2). These documents outline important precautions to ensure safe operation of the unit.

Concerning the Auto Off function
The RC-600 is equipped with an Auto Off function that turns off the power automatically after a certain period of inactivity. If you prefer to disable this function, follow the instructions on page 19 of the Owner’s Manual.

Use of AC Adaptor and Power Cord
It is essential to use only the supplied AC adaptor and power cord to avoid damage, malfunction, or electric shock. Ensure that the line voltage at the installation matches the input voltage specified on the AC adaptor’s body. Do not use other AC adaptors or power cords not included with the unit.

Handle the Ground Terminal Carefully
If you remove the screw from the ground terminal, make sure to replace it securely and avoid leaving it where small children can access it. This precaution prevents accidental swallowing of the screw. Always ensure that the ground terminal is firmly fastened to prevent it from coming loose.

Precautions concerning use of phantom power supply
When using microphones that require phantom power, such as condenser microphones, always turn off the phantom power when connecting other devices. Supplying phantom power to dynamic microphones, audio playback devices, or devices that do not require it can cause damage. Refer to the manual of your microphone for specifications. The RC-600’s phantom power output is 48 V DC, with a maximum current of 10 mA.

System Settings
The RC-600 offers various system settings to customize your experience. Refer to page 18 of the Owner’s Manual for detailed instructions on accessing and configuring these settings.

Connecting to a Computer via USB

To connect the RC-600 to a computer using USB, follow these steps:

1. Use a USB cable to connect the RC-600’s USB port to your computer’s USB port.
2. Ensure that the RC-600 is powered on.
3. Refer to page 20 of the Owner’s Manual for further instructions on using the RC-600 with a computer.

Backing Up or Recovering Data

If you need to back up or recover data from the RC-600, refer to page 20 of the Owner’s Manual for detailed instructions on performing these tasks.

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. 2)). After reading, keep the document(s) where it will be available for immediate reference.

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

WARNING

Concerning the Auto Off function
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 (p. 19).

WARNING

Use only the supplied AC adaptor and the correct voltage
Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with the unit. Also, make sure the line voltage at the installation matches the input voltage specified on the AC adaptor’s body. Other AC adaptors may use a different polarity, or be designed for a different voltage, so their use could result in damage, malfunction, or electric shock.

Use only the supplied power cord
Use only the attached power cord. Also, the supplied power cord must not be used with any other device.

CAUTION

Handle the ground terminal carefully
If you remove the screw from the ground terminal, be sure to replace it; don’t leave it lying around where it could accidentally be swallowed by small children. When refastening the screw, make that it is firmly fastened, so it won’t come loose.

Precautions concerning use of phantom power supply
Always turn the phantom power off when connecting any device other than condenser microphones that require phantom power. You risk causing damage if you mistakenly supply phantom power to dynamic microphones, audio playback devices, or other devices that don’t require such power. Be sure to check the specifications of any microphone you intend to use by referring to the manual that came with it. (This instrument’s phantom power: 48 V DC, 10 mA Max)

IMPORTANT NOTES

Power Supply

• Place the AC adaptor so the side with the indicator faces upwards. The indicator will light when you plug the AC adaptor into an AC outlet.
• Depending on the material and temperature of the surface on which you place the unit, its rubber feet may discolor or mar the surface.

Repairs and Data

• Before sending the unit away for repairs, be sure to make a backup of the data stored within it; or you may prefer to write down the needed information. Although we will do our utmost to preserve the data stored in your unit when we carry out repairs, in some cases, such as when the memory section is physically damaged, restoration of 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.
• When disposing of the packing carton or cushioning material in which this unit was packed, you must observe the waste disposal regulations that apply to your locality.
• Use only the specified expression pedal (FV-500H, FV-500L, EV-30, and Roland EV-5; sold separately). By connecting any other expression pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the unit.
• Do not use connection cables that contain a built-in resistor.

Intellectual Property Right

• It is forbidden by law to make an audio recording, video recording, copy or revision of a third party’s copyrighted work (musical work, video work, broadcast, live performance, or other work), whether in whole or in part, and distribute, sell, lease,perform or broadcast it without the permission of the copyright owner.
• Do not use this product for purposes that could infringe on a copyright held  by a third party. We assume no responsibility whatsoever with regard to anyinfringements of third-party copyrights arising through your use of this product.
• The copyright of content in this product (the sound waveform data, style data, accompaniment patterns, phrase data, audio loops and image data) is reserved byRoland Corporation.
• Purchasers of this product are permitted to utilize said content (except song data such as Demo Songs) for the creating, performing, recording and distributingoriginal musical works.
• Purchasers of this product are NOT permitted to extract said content in original or modified form, for the purpose of distributing recorded medium of said content or making them available on a computer network.
• This product contains eParts integrated software platform of eSOL Co., Ltd. eParts is a trademark of eSOL Co., Ltd. in Japan.
• This Product uses the Source Code of μT-Kernel under T-License 2.0 granted by the T-Engine Forum (www.tron.org). This product includes third party open source software. Copyright © 2009-2019 ARM Limited. All rights reserved. Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the “License”); You may obtain a copy of the License at http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 Copyright © 2016, Freescale Semiconductor, Inc. Copyright 2016-2019 NXP. All rights reserved. Licensed under the BSD-3-Clause; You may obtain a copy of the License at https://opensource.org/licenses/BSD-3-Clause Copyright © 2020 Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. All Rights Reserved. Licensed under the MIT license https://opensource.org/licenses/mit-license.php
• Roland, BOSS, and LOOP STATION are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Roland Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
  Company names and product names appearing in this document are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective owners.

How the RC-600 Is Organized

Track

Tracks are used for recording and playing back audio from a microphone or a musical instrument. You can combine tracks 1–6 when using this unit.

Input FX, Track FX

Effects that are applied to the input audio are called “input FX”, and effects that are applied to the tracks are called “track FX”. You can register 16 input/track FX (4 banks x 4 types) to the buttons and use them.

Rhythm

In addition to playing back tracks 1–6, you can also play rhythms with this unit.
You can record while listening to a rhythm at the tempo you specify.

Memory

The settings for tracks 1–6 together with the input FX/track FX and rhythm are collectively called a “memory”.You can store up to 99 memories with this unit.

System settings

Settings that are common to the RC-600 overall such as the display contrast, USB and MIDI settings are called “system settings”.

“Recording” versus “Overdubbing”
In this manual, we refer to the act of recording to an empty track for the first time as “recording”. Any subsequent recordings that are made, which are added on top of the existing recording, we refer to as “overdubbning”.

Getting Ready

Top Panel

[OUTPUT LEVEL] knob
Adjusts the volume of the RC-600.

Display
Shows various information of the RC-600.

[1]–[4] knobs
Use these knobs to set the parameter values shown in the screen.

• To change a value in larger steps, turn a knob while pressing it.
• For some parameters, you must press the knob to edit the value.

[MENU] button
This button gives you access to the overall system settings and USB/MIDI settings of the RC-600.

[LOOP] button
Press this button to edit a memory. Use this to configure the settings for tracks 1–6, settings related to loop playback/recording and so on, input FX/track FX settings,rhythm settings and the memory name.

[RHYTHM] button
Each time you press the button, the rhythm switches on (lit)/off (unlit)/standby (blink).

[TAP TEMPO] button
Set the tempo by pressing this button at the desired interval (tap tempo). When doing this, the tempo is shown on the screen.Long-press the button to return to the previous tempo.

[EXIT] button
Press to return to the previous screen.

[ENTER] button
Press to confirm an operation.

• If you press the [ENTER] button while the play screen is shown, the screen switches to the MIXER screen (p. 8).
• By pressing the [EXIT] button and [ENTER] button simultaneously, you can save a memory (write) or erase (clear) memory data.

PAGE buttons

Use these buttons to move the cursor and switch between pages. If you press these buttons while the play screen is shown, you can switch between variations of the play screen.

LOCK function

In the play screen, press the PAGE buttons simultaneously to turn the lock function on, so that the [1]–[4] knobs are disabled. This lets you prevent the settings from being changed inadvertently.
The Lock function turns off when you press the two buttons simultaneously once again.

Loop indicators
Indicates the track’s status and loop position.

[TRACK SELECT] switch/indicator

Switches between tracks 1–3 and 4–6.

When you hold down the [TRACK SELECT] switch, the indicator lights up blue, and the switches on this unit change their functions

[UNDO/REDO] switch/indicator
Press the switch during playback or overdubbing to cancel the recording or the last overdubbing (Undo).Press the switch once again to cancel the Undo (Redo).

TRACK SELECT indicator: when lit blue

The [UNDO/REDO] switch/indicator functions as the [HALF SPEED] switch/indicator. This is used to switch between playback speeds  for the currently selected track (current track).

MEMO
The track that is currently selected (currently the target of operations) is called the “current track”.

[ALL START/STOP] switch/indicator
This makes all tracks start (play back) at the same time.  If you press this button when the tracks are currently playing backor recording, all tracks stop.

TRACK SELECT indicator: when lit blue
The [ALL START/STOP] switch/indicator functions as the [REVERSE] switch/indicator. This is used to switch between normal and reverse playback for the currently selected track (current track).

REC/PLAY] 1–6 switches/indicators
Switches between recording, playback, and overdubbing.

For an empty phrase:
Recording0Playback0Overdubbing

For a phrase that contains data:
Playback0Overdubbing

[STOP] 1–6 switches/indicators
Stops the track that is currently recording/playing/overdubbing. If you long- press the switch (two seconds or longer), the track is cleared.

TRACK SELECT indicator: when lit blue
These function as the INPUT [A]–[C] switches/indicators and the TRACK [A]–[C] switches/indicators.
INPUT [A]–[C] switches/indicators
Switches the effects A–C in the currently selected input FX bankon/off.
TRACK [A]–[C] switches/indicators
Switches the effects A–C in the currently selected track FX bank on/ off.

on).
Unlit| Effect: off

Connecting Your Equipment

Rear Panel (Connecting Your Equipment)

To prevent malfunction and equipment failure, always turn down the volume, and turn off all the units before making any connections.

• MIC IN 1, 2 connectors
• Connect your microphone(s) here.
• If you’re using a condenser mic that requires phantom power, turnon this unit’s phantom power.

INST IN 1, 2 jacks (L/MONO, R)

• Connect your guitar/bass, effect units, keyboards and other instruments to these jacks

MAIN OUTPUT jacks (L/MONO, R)
SUB OUTPUT 1, 2 jacks (L/MONO, R)

Connect these jacks to your amp, monitor speakers or mixer.

MEMO
You can set the MAIN/SUB jacks as parallel output jacks (mono output x 6) that individually output the sounds from eachtrack.

• “Parameter Guide” (PDF)

PHONES jack
Connect your headphones here.

MEMO
You can configure this unit to let you listen to only the audio you specify in headphones.

• Parameter Guide” (PDF)

CTL/EXP
CTL 1, 2/EXP 1 jack and CTL 3, 4/EXP 2 jack
You can connect an expression pedal or footswitches (sold separately) to these jacks, for controlling a variety of functions.

• Use only the specified expression pedal (FV-500H, FV-500L, EV- 30, and Roland EV-5; sold separately). By connecting any otherexpression pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the unit.

MIDI OUT, MIDI IN connectors
Connect an external MIDI device here. This lets you control an external MIDI device from this unit via MIDI.

USB port
Connect your computer using a commercially available USB cable that supports USB 2.0. You can connect your computer here and use it to back up orrecover data.You can also use USB audio to play the sound from your computerthrough this unit, and use USB MIDI to synchronize the tempo of this unit with the DAW software on your computer.

[POWER] switch
Turns the power on/off..

DC IN jack

• Connect the included AC adaptor to this jack.
• Use only the specified AC adaptor (PSB-1U), connected to an AC outlet of the correct voltage.

Connecting footswitches

Connect one or more footswitches and set their mode/polarity switches by referring to the illustrations below.

Turning the Power On/Off

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.

Turning the Power On

Turn on the power in the following order: this unit ([POWER] switch: ON) connected devices  amplifier.

Turning the Power Off

Turn off the power in the following order: amplifier  connected devices  this unit ([POWER] switch: OFF).

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 (p. 19).

• Unsaved data is lost when the power turns off. Before turning the power off, save the data that you want to keep (p. 13).
• To restore power, turn the power on again.

Phantom Power Settings

If you’re using a condenser mic that requires phantom power, use the settings below to turn on this unit’s phantom power.

1. Press the [MENU] button
2. Press the [1] (INPUT) knob.
3. Press the [1] (SETUP) knob
4. Turn the [1] (MIC1)/[2] (MIC2) knobs to set PHANTOM to “ON”.
5. Press the [EXIT] button to return to the play screen

NOTE
Always turn the phantom power off when connecting any device other than condenser microphones that require phantom power.

Switching Between Play Screens

The screen that appears after you turn on the power is called the “play screen ”.

Press the PAGE button while the play screen is shown to switch between variations of the play screen.

1. MEMORY NUMBER

2. TRACK STATUS

3. LOOP TRACKS
   Displays the track status + progress during playback

4. LOOP STATUS
   Indicates the status of the tracks

5. LOOP LEVEL
   Volume of each track is shown by the level meters

6. INPUT FX
   Indicates the input FX status

7. TRACK FX
   Indicates the track FX status

• You can change which play screen is shown on startup. &&“Parameter Guide” (PDF)

Adjusting the Input/Output Level

Press the [ENTER] button while the play screen is shown to display the MIXER screen, where you can check the input/output levels for each jack and connector.

Use the PAGE buttons to switch between pages, and turn the [1]–[4] knobs to adjust the respective input/output levels.

• Adjust the levels so that the peak indicator on the level meter matches the scale shown in the illustration.
• For the inputs, push the [1]–[4] knobs to mute the sound.
• Use the MASTER OUT to adjust the levels of the MAIN OUTPUT, SUB OUTPUT 1 and SUB OUTPUT 2. The [OUTPUT LEVEL] knob is configured to adjust the levels as well by factory default.

The jacks and connectors shown in the MIXER screen may change, depending on the stereo link settings.

• For details on stereo link, refer to the “Parameter Guide” (PDF).

Pedal Mode

In Pedal mode, you can assign the functions you like to the nine switches on this unit as a set. This lets you efficiently operate switches such as record, playback and overdubbing.

• Pedal mode features three separate modes, and you can switch between these three modes as sets.
• You can also assign the function for selecting modes 1–3 to a switch you like.
• The settings for modes 1–3 can be saved in memory, letting you use different settings for each pedal mode in memory.

Examples of settings

These are the basic (factory default) settings of the RC-600.

These are the settings for quickly selecting a desired track.

Pedal mode settings
Make the Pedal mode settings by selecting the “PEDAL MODE1”–”PEDAL MODE3” parameters from “CTL FUNC” on the MENU screen (p. 18). For details on the parameters, refer to “Parameter Guide” (PDF).

Creating a Loop Phrase

Recording on a Single Track

Here’s how to record and overdub on track 1.

Getting ready to record

1. Connect your guitar or mic.
2. Adjusts the input/output level (p. 8).
3. Use the [OUTPUT LEVEL] knob to adjust the overall volume of the RC-600.
4. On the play screen, turn the [1] (MEMORY) knob to select a memory.
5. Press the [TRACK SELECT] switch to the tracks 1–3.

Undo/Redo
Press the [UNDO/REDO] switch during playback or overdubbing to Undo.
Press the switch once again to Redo

Recording on Multiple Tracks

You can use multiple tracks to create a single loop phrase.
This shows you how to record the tracks in ascending order (track 1 0 track 2 0 … track 6).

Undo/Redo
Press the [UNDO/REDO] switch during playback or overdubbing to Undo.
Press the switch once again to Redo.

Creating a Loop Phrase

Record While Listening to the Rhythm Sound In addition to the track, the RC-600 can also play a “Rhythm”.You can record while sounding a rhythm at the tempo you specify.

Sounding a Rhythm
Press the [RHYTHM] button.
The rhythm switches on (lit)/off (unlit)/ready to play rhythm (blink) each time you press the button.

Setting the Tempo of Rhythm

1. Press the [TAP TEMPO] button. The tempo setting screen appears.
2. While the tempo setting screen is shown, turn the [4]  knob to set the tempo.

Value 40.0–300.0

MEMO
Press and then turn the [4] knob to set a value in decimal points.

Tap tempo
You can set the tempo by pressing a button at the desired interval.

1. Press the [TAP TEMPO] button several times in time with the desired tempo.

MEMO
If you long-press the [TAP TEMPO] button until it begins blinking red, the tempo returns to the default value.

• The specified tempo can be saved as a setting in memory.
• Saving a Memory (WRITE)” (p. 13)
• You can specify the volume and type (variation) of rhythm, and how the rhythm plays.
• Editing the Rhythm Settings” (p. 16)

Using the Input FX

You can apply input FX to the input sound.

1. Press the [LOOP] button.
   The LOOP screen appears.

2. Use the PAGE [J] button to switch the page, and then press the [1] (INPUT FX) knob.

3. Turn the [1]–[4] knobs to switch the effects (FX A–D) on/off.

Switching between banks

Use the PAGE [J] button to switch the page, and then turn the [1] (BANK) knob to select the bank.

Using the Track FX
To apply track FX to a track that’s already recorded, use the same operation as with the input FX after pressing the [2] (TRACK FX) knob mentioned in step 2.

• You can save the effects you configured as settings in memory. Saving a Memory (WRITE)” (p. 13)
• You can switch between effect types that are assigned to the[A]–[D] buttons, and change how the effects sound.

Saving a Memory

Saving a Memory (WRITE)
If you select a different memory or turn off the power after recording or editing the settings, the recorded content or edited settings are lost. If you want to keep the data, you must save it.

1. Press the [EXIT] button and [ENTER] button simultaneously.
   The WRITE screen appears.

2. Press the [1] or [2] (WRITE) knob.

3. 3. Turn the [1]–[4] knobs to select the memory to which you want to save.

   • This procedure is not required if the memory number is acceptable as is.
   • If you decide to cancel, press the [EXIT] button.

4. Press the [ENTER] button. The memory is saved.

   • Make sure not turn to off the power while the “EXECUTING…” message is shown.

MEMO
You can assign a name to the memory. For details, refer to “Parameter Guide” (PDF).

Erasing Data from a Memory (CLEAR)

You can erase the data that is saved in a memory, clearing that memory to an empty state.

1. 1. Press the [EXIT] button and [ENTER] button simultaneously.
   The WRITE screen appears.

2. Press the [3] or [4] (CLEAR) knob.

3. Turn the [1]–[4] knobs to select the memory you want to clear.

   • This procedure is not required if the memory number is acceptable as is.
   • If you decide to cancel, press the [EXIT] button.

4. Press the [ENTER] button.
   The memory will be cleared.

   • Make sure not turn to off the power while the “EXECUTING…” message is shown.

Editing a Memory

Editing the Settings of a Memory
Here’s how to edit the settings of each memory.
For details on the parameters, refer to “Parameter Guide” (PDF).

1. Press the [LOOP] button.
   The LOOP screen appears

2. Use the PAGE buttons to switch to the page containing the item you want to edit.

3. Press the [1]–[4] knobs to select the parameter to edit.

4. Use the PAGE buttons to switch to the page containing the parameter you want to edit.

5. Turn the [1]–[4] knobs to edit the values.

6. Press the [EXIT] button a number of times to return to the play screen.

7. If you want to save the edited settings, execute the Write operation (p. 13).

Turn the [1] knob to select the track to edit.

REC| Configures the settings related to recording/ overdubbing.
PLAY| Specifies how loop phrases play back.
INPUT FX| Configures the input FX.
TRACK FX| Configures the track FX.
RHYTHM| Configures the rhythm settings.
NAME| Specifies the memory name.

• Maximum of 12 characters

Editing the Track Settings

Here’s how to configure the volume, playback method and other settings for tracks 1–6. For details on the parameters, refer to “Parameter Guide” (PDF).

1. Press the [LOOP] button.
   The LOOP screen appears

2. Turn the [1] (TRACK) knob to select the track to edit, and then press the [1] (TRACK) knob.
   The TRACK screen appears

3. Use the buttons to switch to the page containing the parameter you want to edit.

4. Turn the [1]–[4] knobs to edit the values.

5. Press the [EXIT] button a number of times to return to the play screen.

6. If you want to save the edited settings, execute the Write operation (p. 13).

playback.
PAN| Specifies the stereo position (pan) of the track.
PLAY LEVEL| Adjusts the playback level of the track.
START MODE| Specifies whether playback starts with a fade-in or immediately when the track plays.
STOP MODE| Specifies how the track stops.
DUB MODE| Specifies the overdubbing method.

FX

| Turns the effects (input FX/track FX) on/off.

• You can also press the [FX] button of the currently selected track to switch the effect on/off.

PLAY MODE| Specify how loop phrases play back.
MEASURE| Specifies the number of measures in the track.

LOOP SYNC

| Specifies whether the phrases played back on tracks 1–6 are lined up at the beginning and then looped, or whether each phrase is looped separately according to their length.

TEMPO SYNC

|

SW

| Sets whether each track plays at its original tempo (the tempo during recording—use the OFF setting) or at the tempo that is specified in the memory (use the ON setting).

MODE

| When TEMPO SYNC SW is “ON”, this sets whether to change the pitch according to the tempo, or to instead make the pitch stay the same.
SPEED| Sets the playback speed for each track.

BOUNCE IN

| Sets whether to allow the playback sound from a different track as well to be recorded during recording or overdubbing.

INPUT

| Sets whether the sound from each input jack/ connector and the rhythm should be inputted to the track (ON) or not (OFF).

Turn the [1] knob to select the input jack/ connector or RHYTHM, and press the [1] knob to switch between ON/OFF.

• When stereo link is “ON”, the MIC 1, 2 and L/R channels are shown as a single connector.

Editing the Rhythm Settings

1. Press the [LOOP] button.
   The LOOP screen appears.

2. Use the PAGE [J] button to switch the page, and then press the [3] (RHYTHM) knob.
   The RHYTHM screen appears.

3. Use the buttons to switch between the parameters that you want to edit.

4. Turn the [1]–[4] knobs to edit the values.

5. Press the [EXIT] button a number of times to return to the play screen.

6. If you want to save the edited settings, execute the Write operation (p. 13).

fill-in.
VARI. CHANGE| Specifies the timing at which the rhythm pattern’s variation is changed.

Changing How the Rhythm Starts and Stops
As appropriate for your recording method or the phrase that you’re recording, you can change the way in which the rhythm starts and stops.

1. From the RHYTHM screen, switch to the page on which
   “START TRIG” is shown.

2. Turn the [2] (START TRIG) knob to set the rhythm playback method.

3. Turn the [3] (STOP TRIG) knob to set the rhythm stop method.

4. Press the [EXIT] button a number of times to return to the play screen.

5.  If you want to save the edited settings, execute the Write operation (p. 13).

START TRIG
LOOP START| The rhythm plays when loop recording or playback starts.

REC END

BEFORE LOOP

| The rhythm plays when loop recording ends and switches to playback.

This is useful if you want to perform without specifying a tempo, start recording and then play the loop in time with the rhythm when playback starts.

The rhythm plays before loop recording or playback.

The rhythm starts playing when you press the switch once, and recording/playback starts

in time with the rhythm when you press the switch once again.

STOP TRIG

OFF

| The rhythm always continues playing.

If you are performing in synchronization with an external MIDI device, you can keep the rhythm playing continuously to allow synchronized playback.

LOOP STOP| The rhythm stops when the loop stops.

REC END

| The rhythm stops when loop recording ends.

This is useful when you want to use the rhythm as a guide during recording.

Editing the Input FX/Track FX Settings

For details on the parameters, refer to “Parameter Guide” (PDF).

1. Select the memory for which you want to edit the input FX/track FX settings

2. Press the [LOOP] button.
   The LOOP screen appears.

3. Use the PAGE [J] button to switch the page, and then press the [1] (INPUT FX) or [2] (TRACK FX) knob.
   The INPUT FX screen/TRACK FX screen appears.

4. Select the bank of the effect you wish to edit.

5. Use the PAGE [J] button to switch the page, and then turn the [1] (BANK) knob to select the bank.

6. Press the PAGE [K] button to return to the previous page.

7. Press the [1]–[4] knobs to select the effect to edit.

8. Use the [K] [J] buttons to switch to the page containing the parameter you want to edit.

   • The available parameters depend on the type of effect you select.

9. Turn the [1]–[4] knobs to edit the values.

10. Press the [EXIT] button a number of times to return to the play screen.

11. If you want to save the edited settings, execute the Write operation (p. 13).

System Settings MENU

For details on the parameters, refer to “Parameter Guide” (PDF).

1. Press the [MENU] button.
   The MENU screen appears

2. Use the [K] [J] buttons to switch to the page containing the item you want to edit.

3. 3. Press the [1]–[4] knobs to select the item that you want to edit.

4. If you see another screen with items to select, repeat steps 2 and 3.

5. Use the [K] [J] buttons to switch to the page containing the parameter you want to edit.

6. Turn the [1]–[4] knobs to change the value.

7. Press the [EXIT] button a number of times to return to the play screen.

INPUT

| SETUP
Settings related to the input and output jacks, such as phantom power on/off.
EQ
Settings for applying an equalizer effect to the input sound for each connector/jack.
DYNAMICS
Settings for applying a compressor or noise suppressor to the input sound.

OUTPUT

| SETUP
Settings related to the output jacks, such as stereo link.
ROUTING
Settings for assigning the playback sound from tracks 1–6 and the input/rhythm sound from each input jack/connector to the output jacks.
EQ
Settings for applying an equalizer effect to the output sound, configured for each output jack.
MASTER FX
Settings for the compressor and reverb effects that are applied to the output sound.
MIXER| Sets the input/output levels for each jack and connector (p. 8).

CTL FUNC

| PANEL MODE 1–3
Settings for assigning functions to the [REC/PLAY] switches x 3, the [STOP] switches x 3, the [TRACK SELECT] switch, the [UNDO/REDO] switch and the [ALL START/STOP] switch.
CTL/EXP
Settings for assigning functions to a footswitch or expression pedal connected to the CTL 1, 2/EXP 1 jack or the CTL 3, 4/EXP 2 jack.
PREFERENCE
Selects whether to switch the PANEL MODE 1–3 and CTL/EXP settings to either the settings for each memory or to the system settings.

• When switching to the settings for each memory, use the write operation to save the settings to memory.

ASSIGN

| ASSIGN 1–16
Settings for the ASSIGN section.

By using the assign settings, you can control other parameters at the same time as the specified functions that are executed when you operate this unit’s buttons/knobs, or a footswitch/expression pedal connected to the CTL 1, 2/EXP 1 jack or CTL 3, 4/EXP 2 jack.

You can also configure this unit to be controlled from an external MIDI device.

There are 16 different assign settings.

USB

| STORAGE
Settings for how USB should operate.
AUDIO MODE
Settings for the USB driver when USB audio is used.
AUDIO ROUTING
Settings for where the USB audio is routed.
INPUT LEVEL
Configures the USB audio input level.
OUTPUT LEVEL
Configures the USB audio output level.

MIDI

| RX CH CTL
Specifies the receive channel for messages  (control changes) that switch memories or control the RC-600.
RX CH RHYTHM
Specifies the receive channel for note messages that play the drum sounds.
RX CH VOICE
Specifies the receive channel for note messages used to create harmonies or vocoder effects.
TX CH
Specifies the transmit channel for MIDI messages.
SYNC CLOCK
Specifies the input to which the tempo clock is synchronized.
SYNC OUT
Sets whether to output MIDI clock or not.
SYNC START
Specifies what starts in synchronization when a MIDI start message is received.
PC OUT
Sets whether to transmit program change messages or not.
THRU MIDI IN
Specifies the connector used to output the MIDI messages received through the MIDI IN connector.
THRU USB IN
Specifies the connector used to output the MIDI messages that are received through the USB port.

SETUP

| CONTRAST
Adjusts the display contrast.
DISPLAY MODE
Sets which play screen is shown on startup.
INDICATOR
Settings for what the loop indicator should display.
FX KNOB MODE
Sets how the [INPUT FX] knob/[TRACK FX] knob operate.
AUTO OFF
Turns the AUTO OFF function on/off.
Item| Parameter/Explanation
---|---

SETUP

| MEMORY EXT MIN, MAX
Specifies the extent (lower limit and upper limit) to which memories can be switched.
KNOB FUNC 1–4
Specifies the functions that are assigned to the [1]–[4] knobs.
FACTORY RESET| Restores the unit to its factory settings (p. 25).

Connecting to a Computer via USB

Here’s what you can do when you connect the RC-600 via USB to
your computer.

• Back up the RC-600’s data to your computer.
• Restore (recover) backup data from your computer to the RC-600.
• Use BOSS TONE STUDIO to import or back up loop phrases (audio files).
• Use the dedicated rhythm converter if you want to import and use your original rhythm patterns on the RC-600.

Using BOSS TONE STUDIO and the rhythm converter

Access the website shown below to download BOSS TONE STUDIO or the rhythm converter.

• https://www.boss.info/support/

Connecting to your computer
Use a commercially available USB cable to connect the RC-600’s USB port to the USB port on your computer.

NOTE

• Use a USB cable that supports USB 2.0 Hi-Speed.
• This might not work correctly for some models of computer. Refer to the BOSS website for details on the operating systems that are supported.

Backing Up or Recovering Data

1. Press the [MENU] button.
   The MENU screen appears

2. Use the buttons to switch to the page on which “USB” is shown, and press the [2] (USB) knob.

3. Turn the [1] (STORAGE) knob to set “PREPARING…”.

4. Use a USB cable to connect the RC-600’s USB port to your computer’s USB port.
   When a connection with the computer is established, the message “CONNECTING…” appears.

   • USB connection is not possible if the unit is not stopped, or if there is a phrase that has not been saved.

5. Open the BOSS RC-600 drive.

Windows
Within My Computer (or Computer), open “BOSS RC-600” (or Removable Disk).
macOS
On the desktop, open the “BOSS RC-600” icon.

Back-up or recover the data.
Backup
Copy the entire “ROLAND” folder from the BOSS RC-600 drive to your computer.

Recover

• When you execute this operation, the memory currently saved in the RC-600 disappears. Back up in advance. In the BOSS RC-600 drive, delete the “ROLAND” folder, and then copy the backed-up “ROLAND” folder from the computer into the BOSS RC-600 drive.

NOTE
Do not delete the folders in the BOSS RC-600 drive other than when executing the recovery operation.

Eject the BOSS RC-600 drive.
Windows
In the lower right of your screen, click the [ ] and then the [ ] icon, and then click “Eject BOSS RC-600”.

macOS
Drag the “BOSS RC-600” icon to the trash (“Eject” icon).

Controlling Devices via MIDI

Connection

Connect external MIDI devices to this unit according to your needs.

MIDI Settings
Use of MIDI requires that the MIDI channels be matched with those of the connected device. Data cannot be transmitted to, nor received from another MIDI device unless the MIDI channels are set properly.
For details on each of the MIDI setting parameters, refer to “Parameter Guide” (PDF).

Controlling an External MIDI Device from the RC-600

The RC-600’s performance tempo data is transmitted to external MIDI devices as MIDI Clock.| Setting an external MIDI device to the same tempo as the RC-600

MIDI Clock messages are output from the RC-600 at all times.

Set the external MIDI device beforehand so it is ready to receive MIDI Clock and MIDI Start and Stop messages. For details, refer to the owner’s manual of your device.

---|---

Playback start and stop operations with the RC-600’s switches can be transmitted as MIDI Start and Stop messages.

| Transmitting Start/Stop

A MIDI Start message is transmitted at the moment that recording or playback of the track begins, when tracks had been stopped. This message is also transmitted when an All Start is carried out.

A MIDI Stop message is transmitted when tracks have stopped. This is also transmitted when All Stop is carried out.

• If you want MIDI synchronized performance to continue even after the track stops, set the RHYTHM parameter STOP TRIG to “OFF”.

• Tracks whose 1SHOT setting is “ON” and tracks whose LOOP SYNC setting is “OFF” will not transmit Start/Stop data.

Transmitting Program Change messages

When a memory is selected with the RC-600, a Program Change message corresponding to the selected memory number is transmitted simultaneously.

| Transmitting Program Change messages

When memories are switched on the RC-600, a MIDI Program Change message is transmitted to the connected external MIDI device. You can transmit Program Change messages numbered 1 through 99, corresponding to the 99 individual memories 01–99.

• Set “PC OUT” to ON beforehand.

• Program Change messages 100–128 cannot be transmitted.

• Bank Select MIDI messages (Control Change #0, #32) cannot be transmitted.

---|---

Transmitting Control Change messages

Operating information for the

RC-600’s switches, buttons, knobs, and an external expression pedal or footswitch is transmitted as Control Change messages.

| Transmitting Control Change messages

If you select a Control Change as the “ASSIGN” target, you can transmit MIDI control change messages by operating the buttons and knobs on the RC-600, or by using an external footswitch or expression pedal (connected to the CTL 1, 2/EXP 1 jack or the CTL 3, 4/EXP 2 jack).

---|---

Controlling the RC-600 from an External MIDI Device

The RC-600 will synchronize to the tempo of MIDI Clock data from an external MIDI device.

| Setting the RC-600 to the same tempo as an external MIDI device

Make settings on your external MIDI device so that it will transmit MIDI Clock and MIDI Start/Stop data. For details, refer to the owner’s manual of your device.

Set the RC-600’s SYNC CLOCK (p. 19) to “AUTO”.

• You  can’t switch the tempo during recording.

---|---
Start/stop data will be received from an external MIDI device to play/stop the RC-600.| Receiving MIDI Start

When MIDI Start (FA) is received, all tracks will play (All Start).

Switching memories

The RC-600’s memories switch simultaneously upon receipt of corresponding Program Change messages from external MIDI devices.

| Switching memories

You can switch the RC-600’s memories with Program Change messages from external MIDI devices. You can receive Program Change messages numbered 1 through 99, corresponding to the 99 individual memories 01–99.

• Program Change messages 100–128 cannot be received.

• Even if received, Bank Select MIDI messages (Control Change #0, #32) are disregarded.

---|---

Receiving Control Change messages

The RC-600 can be controlled using Control Change messages from external MIDI devices.

| Receiving Control Change messages

You can use Control Change messages from an external MIDI device to control functions that would be difficult to control using the RC-600’s own controllers.

In the “ASSIGN” setting, set SOURCE to “MIDI CC#1–#31, CC#64–#95”, and select the parameter that you want to control in TARGET.

---|---

Connecting Two RC-600 Units

Two RC-600 units can be synchronized after connecting them together using a MIDI cable.

• Begin recording on the tracks of the transmitting RC-600.
• When you press the [ALL START/STOP] button on the transmitting RC-600, the receiving RC-600 also plays back.
• The receiving RC-600 performs an “all start” when tracks start playing back on the transmitting RC-600.
• Tracks for which TEMPO SYNC (p. 15) is ON play at the tempo set in the memory of the transmitting unit.
• Tracks for which LOOP SYNC (p. 15) is ON loop in time with the first-recorded phrase on the transmitting RC-600.

Appendix

Troubleshooting

No sound/insufficient volume

| Is this unit properly connected to other devices?| Check the connections to other devices (p. 7).
---|---|---
Is the power to the connected amp or mixer not

turned on, or is the volume turned down?

| Check the settings for connected devices.
Is there a short in one of the connection cables?| Try replacing the connection cable.
The [OUTPUT LEVEL] knob have been lowered?| Adjust knob to suitable position.
Is the input/output level set correctly?| Adjust the input/output levels on the MIXER screen for the input/output

jacks and connectors respectively.

Are the levels for tracks 1–6 set correctly?

| Check the “PLAY LEVEL” setting for each track (p. 15).
Check whether an external expression pedal or other accessory has

been set to adjust the levels (p. 18).

Are the audio output destinations for tracks 1–6

set correctly?

| Check the “ROUTING” settings in OUTPUT on the MENU screen (p. 18).

Has anything been recorded to the tracks?

| Check the REC/PLAY indicator for each track to see whether the

track has been recorded. If a track’s button is unlit, nothing has been recorded on that track.

No rhythm sound

| Is the rhythm volume set correctly?| Check the “RHYTHM OUT” setting on the MIXER screen.
Is the output destination for the rhythm sound

set correctly?

| Check the RHYTHM settings in “ROUTING”, found in OUTPUT on the

MENU screen (p. 18).

Sound is missing from the beginning and end of a recorded track| To prevent noise, a fade-in and a fade-out are applied at the beginning and end of a recording. In some cases, it may sound as if some of the sound has been cut out.
Unable to hear sounds from devices connected to the MIC IN 1, 2

connectors/INST IN 1, 2

jacks

|

Is the audio output destination set correctly?

|

Check the MIC 1/MIC 2/INST 1/INST 2 settings in “ROUTING”, found in OUTPUT on the MENU screen (p. 18).

Problems with operation

Cannot switch between memories| Is something other than the play screen appearing in the display?| You cannot switch memories while any screen other than the play screen is displayed. Press the [EXIT] button to return to the play screen.
---|---|---

Recording/overdubbing stops before finishing

| Is there enough memory remaining?| If there isn’t enough memory, clear any unneeded memories

before recording or overdubbing.

Is LOOP SYNC set to “ON” for the track?

| When recording with LOOP SYNC set to “ON”, once the end of the longest track is reached, this unit automatically switches to

overdubbing.

Playback tempo not changing

|

Is recording or overdubbing in progress?

| You cannot change the tempo of the memory while recording or overdubbing. Change the tempo while the tracks are stopped or

playing back.

Is TEMPO SYNC  set to “ON” for the track?

| When TEMPO SYNC is not set to “ON” for a track, the playback speed does not change even if the tempo for the memory changes. To match the playback speed to the tempo of the memory, set the track’s TEMPO

SYNC setting to “ON”.

Playback tempo not changing

|

Is the unit synchronized via MIDI?

| If MIDI clocks are being received via the MIDI IN connector or the USB port, the RC-600 synchronizes its tempo to the MIDI clocks.

If you don’t want to synchronize with an external device, set SYNC to “INTERNAL”.

MIDI messages not being transmitted/ received

| Is the external MIDI device properly connected?| Check the connections to the external MIDI device.
Could there be a short in the MIDI cable?| Try replacing the MIDI cable.
Are the MIDI channels matched to those of the

external MIDI device?

| Confirm that both devices are set to the same MIDI channels.
If transmitting from the RC-600, have you made

the necessary transmission settings?

| Check the TX CH (transmit channel) setting and the PC OUT (program

change message transmit) on/off setting.

Problems with USB

Unable to communicate with computer

| Is the USB cable properly connected?| Check the connection (p. 20).
---|---|---
(If exchanging files via USB with your computer)

Could “STORAGE” be OFF?

| Using the procedure shown in “Backing Up or Recovering Data

set STORAGE to “PREPARING…”.

Is a memory now being edited?| USB connection is not possible if there is an unsaved memory.

Save the memory (p. 13), and then try the USB connection again.

Error Message List

DATA DAMAGED| Data may have been damaged.| In the factory reset function (p. 25), choose “SYS+MEM” to return the RC-600 to its factory settings.
---|---|---
DATA READ ERR| A problem has occurred with the content of the RC-600’s memory.| Consult your dealer, a Roland service center, or an official Roland dealer.
DATA WRITE ERR
DATA TOO LONG| Playback is not possible because the recording time or audio file is too long.| The recording time or audio file length must not exceed 1.5 hours.
DATA TOO SHORT| Playback is not possible because the recording time or audio file is too short.| The recording time or audio file length must be at least 0.1 seconds.
EVENT FULL| Further overdubbing is not possible.| Save the memory (p. 13).

MEMORY FULL

| The recorded time of one track exceeded 1.5 hours (approximately).

No further recording is possible on the current track.

|

Save the memory (p. 13). If you want to continue recording, select a different memory.

The total recording time of all memories exceeded 13 hours (approximately).

No further recording is possible.

|

Clear unneeded memories (p. 13).

NOT EMPTY| You are attempting to overwrite-save onto a memory in which a phrase is already recorded.| Either clear the currently selected memory (p. 13), or select an empty memory.

TEMPO TOO FAST

| Since the track is being played at a much faster tempo than when it was recorded, it might not play back correctly.|

Adjust the tempo.

TEMPO TOO SLOW

| Since the track is being played at a much slower tempo than when it was recorded, it might not play back correctly.

TOO BUSY

TOO BUSY OMSG

|

The RC-600 could not process the data completely.

For “TOO BUSY OMSG”:

Since you attempted to apply the loop FX to a phrase that was set to a significantly slower tempo than when it was recorded, the data could not be processed quickly enough.

| Lower the performance tempo.

In the case of “TOO BUSY OMSG” , return to the tempo that was used during recording.

Save the current content to a memory.
If this appears frequently, back up the data to your computer, then execute factory reset “SYS+MEM”, and then recover the data
UNDEFINED ERR| An error of unknown cause has occurred during recording, playback, or overdubbing.| Consult your dealer, a Roland service center, or an official Roland dealer.

MIDI

BUFFER FULL| An excessive volume of messages were received and could not be processed properly.| Reduce the number or size of MIDI messages transmitted to the RC-600.
---|---|---
OFFLINE| There is a problem with the MIDI cable connection.| Check to make sure the cable has not been disconnected and that there is no short in the cable.

Others

MEMORY FULL| This unit’s memory is insufficient. If this message appears, recording or overdubbing might end mid-way.| Clear unneeded memories (p. 13), and then try recording again.
---|---|---
STOP LOOPER| The operation is not possible during recording, playback, or overdubbing.| Stop before performing the operation.
STOP ALL| The operation is not possible during recording, playback, overdubbing, or rhythm playback.| Stop all of these before performing the operation.

STOP ALL &SAVE

| The operation is not possible during recording, playback, overdubbing, or rhythm playback when there is also unsaved data.|

Stop all of these, and then save the memory (p. 13).

UNSUPPORTED FILE|

This audio file is unplayable.

| Check the format of the audio file.
To import an audio file into the RC-600, use BOSS TONE STUDIO.

Restoring the Factory Default Settings (Factory Reset)

• You can restore all of the settings to their factory-set values, and you can also specify certain items to be reset.
• When you execute “Factory Reset”, the settings you made are lost. Back up any necessary data to your computer.

1.  Press the [MENU] button.
   The MENU screen appears

2. Use the [K] [J] buttons to switch to the page on which “FACTORY RESET” is shown, and press the [4] (FACTORY RESET) knob.

3. Turn the [1]–[4] knobs to select the setting that you want to restore.

• If you decide to cancel, press the [EXIT] button.
• Press the [ENTER] button. The factory reset is executed.
• Make sure not turn to off the power while the “EXECUTING…” message is shown. Once the factory reset is complete, you are returned to the Play screen.

Main Specifications

Recording/Playback

| Number of Tracks: 6

Data Format: WAV (44.1 kHz, 32-bit float, stereo)

Maximum Recording Time: Approx. 1.5 hours (1 track), Approx.13 hours (total of All memories)

Rhythm Type| 200 types or greater
Rhythm Kit| 16 types

Effect

| INPUT FX:      49 types TRACK FX:     53 types

MASTER FX:   2 types

Memory| 99
Nominal Input Level| MIC IN 1, 2:     -40 dBu

INST IN 1, 2:     -10 dBu

Maximum Input Level| MIC IN 1, 2:     0 dBu

INST IN 1, 2: +7 dBu/+20 dBu (selectable)

Input Impedance| MIC IN 1, 2:     3 kΩ

INST IN 1, 2: 1 MΩ/25 kΩ (selectable)

Nominal Output Level| MAIN OUTPUT:       -10 dBu

SUB OUTPUT 1, 2:    -10 dBu

Maximum Output Level| MAIN OUTPUT:       +7 dBu

SUB OUTPUT 1, 2:    +7 dBu

Output Impedance| MAIN OUTPUT:       1 kΩ

SUB OUTPUT 1, 2:   1 kΩ

Recommended Load Impedance| MAIN OUTPUT:       10 kΩ or greater

SUB OUTPUT 1, 2:   10 kΩ or greater

Display| Graphic LCD (128 x 64 dots, backlit LCD)

Connectors

| MIC IN 1, 2 connectors: XLR type (balanced, phantom power: DC 48 V, 10 mA Max) INST IN 1, 2 jacks, MAIN OUTPUT jacks, SUB OUTPUT 1, 2 jacks: 1/4-inch phone type PHONES jack: Stereo 1/4-inch phone type

CTL1,2/EXP1 jack, CTL3,4/EXP2 jack: 1/4-inch TRS phone type USB port: USB B type

MIDI (IN, OUT) connectors

DC IN jack

Power Supply| AC adaptor
Current Draw| 1.2 A (with phantom power)

1.1 A (without phantom power)

Dimensions| 435 (W) x163 (D) x 66 (H) mm

17-1/8 (W) x 6-7/16 (D) x 2-5/8 (H) inches

Weight| 2.4 kg

5 lbs 5 oz

Accessories

| AC adaptor Owner’s Manual

Leaflet “USING THE UNIT SAFELY”

Options (sold separately)

| Footswitch: FS-5U

Dual Footswitch: FS-6, FS-7

Expression Pedal: FV-500H, FV-500L, EV-30, Roland EV-5

• 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.
• To obtain the Parameter Guide
  1. Enter the following URL on your computer. https://www.boss.info/manuals/
  2. Choose “RC-600” as the product name.

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