VS-840EX(1999)

The Roland VS-840EX is a self-contained 8-track digital recording workstation designed for home and project studios. It features a built-in 250MB Zip drive for storage, a digital mixer, and high-quality onboard effects, making it a compact "studio-in-a-box" solution for musicians and producers.

• Tracks: Up to 4 tracks record simultaneously, 8 tracks playback simultaneously
• Storage: Built-in 250MB Zip drive (100MB or 250MB Zip disks), max 200 songs per disk (depending on recording mode/length)
• Recording: 16-bit, 44.1kHz, with proprietary audio compression (transparent quality)
• Mixer: 8-channel digital mixer with EQ, pan, aux sends, and snapshot automation
• Effects: Built-in multi-effects processor (reverb, delay, chorus, etc.) and dedicated guitar effects with chromatic tuner
• Inputs/Outputs:
  • 4 x 1/4" analog inputs (including 1 dedicated guitar input)
  • RCA stereo master outputs
  • Digital I/O (coaxial S/PDIF)
  • 1/4" headphone output, footswitch input
• Display: Backlit LCD for metering, routing, and parameter editing
• Controls: Channel faders, trim pots, time/value wheel, cursor buttons, transport controls
• Dimensions: Compact tabletop design (exact dimensions not listed in sources)
• Power: Internal power supply

Key Points:

• All-in-One Design: Combines recording, mixing, and effects in a single unit, ideal for beginners or portable setups.
• Zip Drive: Uses affordable, removable 100/250MB Zip disks, though limited capacity compared to modern standards.
• Guitar-Friendly: Dedicated guitar input and effects based on Roland’s physical modeling algorithms.
• User Interface: Intuitive with tape-style controls but relies on menus and a data wheel for deeper functions.
• Limitations: No SCSI export for WAV files (unlike VS-840GX), requiring analog or 2-track digital transfers to computers.

The VS-840EX was a cost-effective, entry-level alternative to Roland’s higher-end VS-880, tailored for users needing a simple yet powerful digital multitracker.