Roland DB-500 D-Bass Amplifier

January 28, 1999 -- Roland is proud to introduce the world's first digitally controlled bass amplifier-the DB-500 D-Bass Amplifier. This breakthrough combo amp employs COSM sound modeling technology and proprietary new FFP (Feed Forward Processing) to deliver rich, powerful bass tone in a compact and portable package with digital memory.

The D-Bass Amplifier uses a 12-inch woofer and high-efficiency horn tweeter to deliver 160 watts of output power. However, thanks to new FFP technology, the sound output from the DB-500 easily rivals amps with much higher power ratings and larger cabinets. Put simply, FFP allows this digitally controlled amp to precisely predict and adjust its response characteristics with digital signal processing before the bass signal reaches the speaker. This ability to "sense" incoming signals and adjust for them greatly improves the DB-500's efficiency, allowing it to maximize "punch" and responsiveness.

In the D-Bass Amplifier, FFP amp technology is coupled with Roland's acclaimed COSM sound modeling technology-the advanced technology behind the legendary VG-8 V-Guitar System-to allow the DB-500 to faithfully emulate the sounds of classic Solid State, Tube, and Tube Drive bass amps with the turn of a knob. These sonic "models" cover every nuance of the modeled amp type, yielding some truly impressive results. The DB-500 also uses COSM technology to emulate the natural compression characteristics of tube amps, which can be easily dialed-in via a Compression knob.

To complement its advanced amplifier and preamplifier design, the DB-500 includes a newly developed D-Chorus effect, adding lush dynamics-sensitive chorus to the high-end without muddying up the fat, punchy lows. And when users have achieved the exact sound they like via Amp Type, EQ adjustment, level and effects tweaking, etc., they can store the complete front-panel settings into A and B memories for instant recall via footswitch.

DB-500 tone control comes via three-band EQ with a semi-parametric midrange control. A Shape button lets users tighten up the bass sound for popping and slapping styles. Straightforward level controls include Preamp Gain and Volume, and a Master Volume knob. Inputs include High and Low jacks, while outputs include an XLR-type Direct Out and Line Out, Insert (Send and Return) jacks, a Headphone jack, plus a Footswitch jack for activation of A/B memory, Manual mode and D-Chorus effect.

For more information, visit Roland on the web at www.rolandus.com.