Using the Roland Kit Chain and Set List Functions

We explore the kit chain and SET LIST functions on Roland V-Drums and percussion products. Here’s what it does and how it can help you when playing live.

You’re ready for your first gig in quite a while. You’ve put in the hours of practise and you’ve honed your performance. The whole band can perform these songs in your sleep and the gear is prepped. Now, it’s just a matter of holding your nerve.

First song of the set and you’ve got the wrong sound! Panicking, you’re toggling through the kits to find the right one while still trying to play. Your band mates are giving you the eyeballs and you’ve got that sinking feeling. If only there was a way to avoid this mess in the first place: well, there is – and it’s called the kit chain. Think of it like a SET LIST.

What is a kit chain/SET LIST?

All Roland V-Drums and percussion instruments contain multiple kits (called patches). Each kit can be edited and customised to create your own signature sounds. For some, one kit for the entire gig is fine. For others, having access to several kits within a set makes electronics the perfect choice for the gig.

• A kit chain allows you to store your favourite kits in the order you want to play them
• Store multiple kits within a single chain or SET LIST
• Have multiple chains, each of which can be named e.g. the name of a specific set list or a particular band
• Save and load using SD Card and USB functionality
• Switch kits via MIDI program change or triggers and foot-switches

Which Roland drum products feature kit chains or SET LISTS?

The kit chain function is available on a range of Roland V-Drums and Percussion products:

–          TD-30 V-Drums module/kits (16 chains, 32 kits/steps per chain)

–          TD-50 V-Drums module/kits (“SET LIST” 32 chains, 32 kits/steps per chain)
–          SPD-SX Sampling Pad (8 chains, 20 kits/steps per chain)
–          HPD-20 HandSonic Percussion Pad (15 chains, 50 kits/steps per chain)
–          SPD-30 Percussion Pad (8 chains, 20 kits/steps per chain)

–          TM-6PRO Trigger module/kits (“SET LIST” 32 chains, 32 kits/steps per chain)

Now you know it’s there, it’s time to put the kit chain to use. This simple feature makes playing live far less stressful. You never know, your set list – and your reputation in the band – might just depend on it!