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Description

Unlock a universe of musical possibilities with the Roland GI-20, a versatile guitar-to-MIDI interface that bridges the gap between traditional stringed instruments and modern digital technology. Whether you're a guitarist or bassist looking to dive into the realms of synthesis and MIDI sequencing, this innovative tool is your ticket to seamless integration with any MIDI-compatible device. Simply connect your instrument equipped with a GK-3A, GK-3B, GK-2A, or GK-2B pickup, and watch as your creative horizons expand.

The Roland GI-20 doesn't just translate your strings' vibrations into MIDI data; it invites you to explore new sonic territories. With its built-in USB MIDI port, connecting to computer-based recording systems becomes a breeze, making it an essential addition for any modern musician's toolkit. Its user-friendly, knob-based controls and dedicated buttons ensure intuitive operation, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—creating music.

Moreover, the highly adaptable Patch Memory feature lets you store personalized settings, enabling you to tailor your sound for live performances or studio sessions effortlessly. Whether you're transposing notes or adjusting play feel settings, the Roland GI-20 ensures your creative flow remains uninterrupted.

Key Features:

  • Guitar-to-MIDI interface for electric guitar and bass
  • Compatible with GK-3A, GK-3B, GK-2A, and GK-2B pickups
  • Built-in USB MIDI port for seamless computer integration
  • Intuitive knob-based controls and dedicated operation buttons
  • Patch Memory for storing user settings and live performance adjustments
  • Flexible Transpose functions with optional footswitch control
  • Includes a Roland 13-pin 10' cable for easy connectivity

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model GI-20
Finish Silver
Year 2000s
Categories Audio Interfaces, Multi-Effect

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Roland GI-20?

The Roland GI-20 is a guitar-to-MIDI interface, allowing guitarists to connect their instruments to MIDI-equipped devices for expanded musical possibilities, such as triggering synthesizers or recording MIDI data.

Does the Roland GI-20 support polyphonic MIDI output?

Yes, the Roland GI-20 supports polyphonic MIDI output, enabling users to play chords and have each note accurately converted and transmitted via MIDI.

Is the Roland GI-20 compatible with both electric and acoustic guitars?

The Roland GI-20 is designed primarily for use with electric guitars equipped with a compatible hexaphonic pickup, such as the Roland GK-3, but it can also be used with acoustic guitars if they have a similar pickup system installed.

Can the Roland GI-20 be used with any MIDI-capable synthesizer or DAW?

Yes, the Roland GI-20 can connect to any MIDI-capable synthesizer or DAW, making it versatile for various recording and live performance setups.

What type of connectivity options does the Roland GI-20 offer?

The Roland GI-20 features MIDI output, USB connectivity for computer integration, and a 1/4" input for guitar connection, offering flexibility in various musical setups.

Rick Graham

Rick Graham

Roland GI-20 midi guitar test

Video thumbnail for Roland GI-20 midi guitar test by Rick Graham

Roland GI-20 midi guitar test

Rick Graham

Rick Graham

Video thumbnail for Roland GI20 Guitar MIDI Interface by SamAshdotcom

Roland GI20 Guitar MIDI Interface

SamAshdotcom

SamAshdotcom

Video thumbnail for Roland GI-20 Guitar Synthesizer Lesson Expansion EV-5 FS-5 Synth Tutorial XV-5080 VG-99 by WayneJoness

Roland GI-20 Guitar Synthesizer Lesson Expansion EV-5 FS-5 Synth Tutorial XV-5080 VG-99

WayneJoness

WayneJoness

Video thumbnail for Roland GI20.mov by AcousticArtist

Roland GI20.mov

AcousticArtist

AcousticArtist

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland GI-20.

Features and functionality

  • The Roland GI-20 converts data from a GK-pickup equipped instrument to MIDI, but it lacks onboard sounds.

    Source
  • Activating the generic driver mode involves holding down [WRITE], turning on power, and selecting "GE" for the USB driver type, as per page 33 of the manual.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Users report that the USB out provides the same MIDI data as the MIDI out, with no notable difference in speed or stability.

    Source
  • Compatibility with macOS Catalina may be an issue due to outdated drivers; it works on Windows 11 with driver installation in compatibility mode.

    Source
  • The GI-20 can operate with Windows 10 and 11 when switched to use a generic class-compliant driver, bypassing the need for proprietary drivers.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The GI-20 can be used to control software instruments in Ableton or Logic if connected through a MIDI interface with MIDI input.

    Source

User experience

  • Users confirmed that the GI-20 remains functional using the generic driver setup, even 18 years after its release, highlighting its durability and continued utility.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Roland Gi-20 & Roland Gk-3 Review

guitarmasterclass.net

Roland's GI-20 MIDI interface is a versatile and fun tool for guitarists looking to explore new sonic landscapes. Its ability to convert guitar notes to MIDI signals opens up endless possibilities with VST instruments or sound modules. While the latency is commendably low, the tracking isn't entirely flawless, occasionally picking up unwanted tones. Using a MIDI interface instead of USB is recommended for smoother performance. Setting it up can be challenging without a manual due to a non-intuitive interface, but it becomes easier with familiarity. The GI-20 is reasonably priced, especially when found on eBay, making it a worthwhile investment for those wanting to experiment beyond traditional guitar sounds. However, it's important to note that the GI-20 doesn't generate sounds itself; external sound sources are needed. Overall, the GI-20 is a creative tool that requires a bit of patience but ultimately rewards users with expansive musical possibilities.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Neal Schon uses Roland GI-20

Neal Schon

Singer, Guitarist

Journey

...
Verified via Premierguitar

This article companion to Neal Schon's rig rundown video mentions his Roland GI-20 MIDI interface, which "lives in a rack above the pedalboard" and sends the signal to the Roland M-120 mixer.

See how Frank Gambale uses Roland GI-20

Frank Gambale

Guitarist

Return to Forever

...
Verified via Guitarplayer

In this interview Frank Gambale discusses his gear used on the Soulmine record.

See how The Flashbulb (Benn Jordan) uses Roland GI-20

The Flashbulb (Benn Jordan)

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube video titled "The Flashbulb - Improvised MIDI Guitar," The Flashbulb (Benn Jordan) demonstrates using the Roland GI-20, showcasing its role in his setup.

Album Usage

The Roland GI-20 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland GI-20, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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bubbajones

bubbajones

Gear IQ 1312

andreberaldino

andreberaldino

Gear IQ 672

andreberaldino

andreberaldino

Gear IQ 672

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