Roland SDE-330

Roland SDE-330 Dimensional Space Delay

The Roland SDE-330 digital delay was released at the same time as the SRV-330 and offers just as spectacular performance as it's sibling. Roland had by now made a number of digital delays, and the SDE-330 showed they had nailed the concept.

Roland SDE-330 Dimensional Space Delay Details

The Roland SDE-330 offers comprehensive delay effects with a total of 19 delay algorithms, featuring new algorithms created specifically for this unit. Delay times can go up to 2.8 seconds and can be combined to produce a wide variety of effects.

With separate processing for left and right channels, the stereo delay creates impressive effects ranging from simple delays to complex cross-feedback effects. The quad delay connects four delay sections in series to produce dense and layered delays. The multitap delay maximises delay effects by using up to eight taps, providing control to get the precise delay you desire.

The gate/duck delay has a built-in gating function, allowing for special effects by switching between the direct and delay signals at the gate threshold setting. The pitch shift delay enables pitch-shifting of each of the four delay taps by up to ±2 octaves. The tempo delay algorithm conveniently calculates the delay time needed to match a song’s tempo, making it a valuable tool for recording and syncing performances.

The Roland SDE-330 stands out with its unique 3-D delay effects. For instance, the Multitap Space Delay positions delay taps at various points around a 360° sound field, while the 3-D Chorus algorithm places multiple pitch-shifted signals around the direct sound, creating richer textures than conventional chorus effects. With 100 preset effects patches and the ability to customise and store up to 200 modified patches, the unit offers extensive creative possibilities. A built-in 3-band parametric EQ provides additional versatility, allowing for detailed tonal control without the need for an external EQ.

The unit’s Roland Sound Space technology generates 3-D delay effects by using the 3-D Spatial Simulator, creating a spacious multi-delay soundfield that outclasses typical stereo delay units. This technology allows the Multitap Space Delay to place up to eight taps at any point in a 3-D soundfield, with the optimal delay time, phase differences, and filtering calculated automatically.

Editing is made easy with algorithm-based processing that selects the most effective parameters for each effect. The rotary encoder simplifies data input, while the horizontally scrolling LCD display makes confirming and editing parameters straightforward.

The Roland SDE-330 supports a variety of input sources with its true stereo configuration and dual inputs and outputs. This setup accommodates professional +4 dBm line-level signals and multi-purpose -20 dBm levels, maintaining the stereo sound image of the direct signal and giving you the flexibility to shape your effected sound.

The Roland SDE-330 offers extensive realtime control options. Remote Bypass On/Off switching is available through an optional footswitch. Additional control over parameters like delay time or pitch shift can be achieved using a control footswitch or expression pedal connected to the rear panel. This capability is ideal for guitar, keyboard, and other instrument performances.

Full MIDI control is also available, allowing patch changes using MIDI Program Change messages, and realtime effects parameter adjustments using MIDI Control Change messages. When paired with a MIDI keyboard or other MIDI instrument, you can select an effects patch suited for the tone patch being used. Realtime parameter adjustments, such as delay feedback amount, can be controlled through the modulation lever or data entry slider.

The Roland SDE-330 supports MIDI bulk data for loading or dumping customised patches via a MIDI sequencer, making effects processing more flexible and efficient for automated mixing and MIDI recording.

Specifications

  • A/D Conversion: 16-bit, Delta Sigma Modulation
  • D/A Conversion: 16-bit Delta-Sigma Modulation
  • Sampling Frequency: 44.1 kHz
  • Frequency Response:
    • Direct: 5 Hz to 70 kHz, -3/+0.1 dB
    • Effect: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, -3/+0.3 dB
  • Nominal Output Level: -20/+4 dBm (selectable with Output Level Switch)
  • Output Impedance:
    • 1.5 KΩ (Output Level Switch: 20 dBm)
    • 9 KΩ (Output Level Switch: +4 dBm)
  • Total Harmonic Distortion:
    • Direct: 0.012% or less (1 kHz at nominal output level)
    • Effect: 0.02% or less (1 kHz at nominal output level)
  • Dynamic Range:
    • Direct: 100 dB or greater
    • Effect: 90 dB or greater
  • Program Memories: User Area: 1 to 200, Preset Area: 201 to 300
  • Display: Custom Backlit LCD, 3-character x 1-line, 17-character x 2-line
  • Connectors: Input L (Mono)/R, Output L (Mono)/R, MIDI In/Out/Thru, Bypass, Control, Expression
  • Power Consumption: 25 W
  • Dimensions: 482mm x 307mm x 44mm
    (EIA-1U rackmount type)
  • Weight: 3.8 kg

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The details provided above are drawn from historical documents like advertising brochures or user manuals. They’re shared without bias or review. This info is given solely for your consideration, helping you gauge its usefulness to you.

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OUTSTANDING

by Simon A

Sound Quality 100%
Build Quality 100%
Usefullness 100%
Mojo/Funk 100%
Reliability 100%

Gorgeous sound with 3D spatial capabilities still unseen in any other unit. I mean, you can create sounds that bounce around behind you and even over your head using the tilt azimuth controls. The best use of a small LCD ever with a scroll function on function buttons that align with what your adjusting. The Audio quality is sublime and the reliability is Japanese boring dependable. It just works every frigg’n time and fires up instantly which can’t be said for much else in particular around this period. Some great patches that are useful for ambience and the widening ability of it are on par with Eventide and TC but there’s something special about this unit and the user interface, buttons and controls oozes quality. My fave bit of fx gear and I’ve had lots.

EXCITING SPACIAL DELAY

by Simon

Sound Quality 100%
Build Quality 100%
Usefullness 100%
Mojo/Funk 100%
Reliability 100%

Beautiful sound from this truly ‘special effects’ delay. Rock-solid build quality and possibly the best user interface ever on any unit with page buttons and scrolling display to show you all the parameters in a left to right motion. Makes a lot more sense than going deep through menus. The 3D ping pong effects are unlike any other unit out there and the degree of control over every aspect of the sound makes it a very fun unit.

Using the RSS technology its possible to change the position front to back behind your head and below and above your head for some fantastic and dramatic effects. The wild doppler and chorus effects are stunning and as a vocal fattener it’s on par with the Eventide Harmonizer. Had mine since 1993 and I still use it in every production today.

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