All user reviews for the Boss BR-1180/1180CD Digital Recording Studio

I'm singer/songwriter and I use this unit to work out arrangements and ideas which I then burn .wave files to take to a pro studio. I then overdub to the recorded tracks.

Purchased it at a Guitar Center about 6 yrs ago for about $1K. I wanted a recorder that was user friendly with good sound quality.

The sound quality for my purposes is adequate as I don't usually mix or master on the unit, but finish the process in a studio.

After about 5 yrs of use, my cd/rw burner went out and upon calling the Roland Help Ctr. I'm told that there is no replacement part !! There are files I've been working on on the hard drive which I cannot export via cd !@#$!! Now the unit is worthless after spending about $1K investment which I thought should last longer.
ROLAND US sucks !!

Roland product buyers should have the support they need ( i.e. replacement parts ) to be able to use their products for many years to come.

DO NOT BUY BR1180-CD !!!!! unless u don't mind scrapping it for lack of parts !!!

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com

I had been looking for a fairly inexpensive multi-track digital recorder for some time, One that you dont have to be a computer nerd to understand or use. I bought this unit new for $950 from Maytan Music in Reno Nevada in June '04.

Easy to use is mainly what I had in mind and this machine is just that. After a quick review of the manual and watching the how-to-use video,I was on my way to recording tracks! Controls are laid out simply and the screen walks you through the process.Built-in guitar & vocal FX are a nice feature as are the drum tracks. The on-board CD burner produces professional sounding,studio quality CD's. Ten digital tracks are more than enough for my needs. A friend of mine bought a computer-based recording system around the same time and he's still trying to get it to work! I'm not far from finishing my first solo album!

The only thing I do not like about this recorder is that you can only record two tracks simultaneously.(with the BR1600 you can record 8 at a time).This is OK by me,as I can only play one instrument at a time anyway! But for recording a Group,it is nice to be able to dedicate indvidual tracks.

The quality is very good. Not at all cheap.Quite sturdy. Perfect for the home recording studio set up. Hook it up to some monitors and you're ready to go. A heavy duty road case would be recommended if taken out.

I am very pleased with this machine,a welcome upgrade from the 4 track cassette based unit I've had for years. If you need to get your songs recorded quickly and want them to sound professionally done and dont need to record more than 2 tracks at a time,this is the unit to get. RECOMMENDED!

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com

I came across an advertisment for this Boss unit and went to check it out for myself at MARS Music center. After hearing its amazing sound quality and extreme ease of use, I bought it for $1099!

This thing is AMAZING! I am no recording engineer, but this thing would make anyone think I made a living at it after hearing the quality mix mastered onto a CD! Its all in here, and anyone that can write a song and play it will sound like a million bucks using this recorder! If Tom Sholtz of Boston had this unit back in the 70's, he would have saved a bundle in recording gear. He probably would have written a few more albums for Boston with all the extra free time he would have had, not messing around with all of that ancient gear of yesterday!

There is not anything I could ask this unit to do it doesn't already do, accept maybe make duplicate cd's from the master!

Good.

If you are in a band and need grat demos-BUY IT!

If you are a song writer whom needs great easy to record multi-trac recordings-
BUY IT!

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com

Purchased at Freehold Music Center in NJ when it first came out for about $900.00. You might be able to get if for less.

All in all, AWESOME! I have to say that I am, by far, no expert in Recording equipment, but I have had two pieces before this one. If you're interested in recording songs in your home and burning them to CD's, this is a great toy. It has built in effects which were better than I expected, a built-in drum kit which is okay, excellent sound, excellent edit features, and it is very simple to use. I have spent hundreds of hours using this thing, and I'm still learning new things about it. No mechanical bugs, no problems like that whatsoever.

My only request would be for the unit to allow more options with percussion. It has a large variety of beats (more than I could ever use)and you can control the tempo. There are some beats though that are in my head that I have not been able to replicate with the machine.

Excellent!

Well worth the money if you're into this stuff. Ten tracks with each having eight virtual tracks is more than enough for me. I can't recommend this product enough.

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com

I bought the BR-1180CD at Mark's music in Bangor, Maine for 1000 plus tax. I bought this because I was sick of 4-track analogue recording and wanted the ability to make my own cd's.

I like the fact that for someone who doesn't have loads of money to spend, you get everything all-in-one. You get over a hundred effects for guitar, bass, vocals, and it also comes with drum loops, and has a drum machine there too if you don't have a drummer. All you really need for additions are your guitars and a mic and you can make your own mastered cd.

Two things i didn't like about this product: one, it comes with a bass simulator, so you don't need a bass guitar, you can use an electric guitar to play bass, but it is awful and a lot of times produces the wrong pitch, and two, when burning cds, there is an option to make a whole cd or to do one track at a time. When i choose create a whole cd, it ends up messing up half way through and you don't get the whole cd burned, so i have to burn them one at a time. I going to buy a cd burner for my computer so i don't have to waste the time on that, but i don't know if it's just mine that frigs up or if it's a manufactorer's glich.

I have had no problems so far with this unit, it is sturdy and is very easy to use after reading the manual. The quality of sound that is produced is very good and there are a lot of song effects to add to the music such as reverb, chorus, delay, etc. to your song so there are an endless amount of different combinations of sounds that can be produced.

If you have a bass guitar and don't mind burning one song at a time as your method of creating a cd, this is a great product and i'm very satisfied with it. The fact that anyone with a moderate amount of money can produce cd's for demo's or personal enjoyment is a cool thing.

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com

I'm a bit lazy for CHARACTERISTICS but a word is everything for this price!

UTILIZATION

For use, it's BOSS / ROLAND: very easy, simple, really no worries. Manual in French trs well. In short it is not the twisted logic of Yamaha.

SOUNDS

The sound is good trs trs: clear clean good momentum. Are several recording quality. The rglages are effective EQ, Chorus .. The REV is a little mtalliques. The effects of simulation gniaux guitars are a lot of work but it must sound, otherwise it sounds digital and cold trs. I have a fender stratocaster us, as it is crystal trs, it reinforces the brilliance too. You have to play the EQ to correct.
on the other hand must mfier at ENR. We must adjust the levels of: guitar, microphone, CD player. Otherwise it is: saturation, breath, glitch ... But it gives a clean all records! . The CD is great.

OVERALL OPINION

A great machine, if I Rasht again! I really bluff but friends with: seq yamaha for the rhythmic beats, guitar, vocals .. I burn and it gniall. A list of issues ngatifs, I would say qd same: the design is plastok the wheel of the game, the big leds are ugly, especially the sounds of the rhythm box is pathetic my taste. But in fact I use that as ENR mixer so I do not care.
In fact, the big problem I have is that I'm not ingnieur sound, and I stop fighting with no EQ, balance, Stereo, in short, common problem while those who do home studio!

Well everyone knows at least the CHARACTERISTICS of bte. I do redirais enough that Euro 1070 is really a bargain.

I took the BR1180 CD because I think the recorder is indispensable especially for backups and for cleaning the disc (20GB) which s'atture relatively quickly.

For tracks that count plutt 8 10 because the 9 and 10 are used for mastering.

UTILIZATION

In a childlike simplicity to the overall functioning except for the guide rhythm or diplomas must pass one of engineers. But there comes force. Beginners to very difficult but with practice it comes. Whereas it is necessary plutt as a guide rhythm than a BAR. The principle is that the BR does not use a guide track for the rhythm but it will associate it with the current song and then when you save the rhythmic arrangement is added. Anyway you have to see.

The rest is really too simple either tracks tural or virtual.
For connections to say anything except that the Lego attention to Jack connectors / cinch (RCA) for monitors and keyboards.

For the manual: It is gnial, I work in IT and if all the manuals taient like there would be less concern for everyone.

SOUNDS

Overall its just a fine. A little cold but normal (numrique).
The effects are interrssants gnral but all work again with the delay, chorus and pan.
The effects are good guitars, bass too, but it must be used as a working basis.
Effects for keyboards I find a bit of breath but I do not use I prfre the sounds of my RS5.

For singing the effects are really nice, watch out for the phantom power supply is activated by menu every time.

OVERALL OPINION

For just over 1000 euros must be crazy to dpenser more. I love this machine you will understand. Only the default guide rhythm complicated (though now I bathe) and taking only two simultaneous tracks.

Brief for home studio or you are only going to do everything it impeccable.

Finally, to see models amateur semi-pro for good.

BR-1180/1180CD / [boss - multitrack recording numrique]

Studio recording 11 tracks

Tracks simultaneously read: 8 tracks + Stereo Track 9 / 10, each with 8 virtual tracks = 80 tracks
Recording tracks simultaneously: 2 tracks
Frquence dchantillonnage: 44.1 kHz (fixed)
Denregistrement mode: 16 bit linear uncompressed R-DAC MT1 (QUALITY), R-DAC MT2 (STANDARD), R-DAC LV1 (LIVE), R-DAC LV2 (LONG)
Hard Drive: 20 GB (Internal)
Duredenregistrement with 20 GB hard drive:
Uncompressed: Approx. 60 hours,
MT1: Approx. 120 hours,
MT2: Approx. 160 hours,
LV1: Approx. 190 hours,
LV2: Approx. 240 hours
CD-R/RW: port CD-R/RW intgrbr /> Effects:
Insertion Effects: 13 algorithms,
Deffets loops: legalization / rverbration / chorus / time limit / dubbing
Mastering Effects: 3-band compressor, COSM modlisations DSurround and microphones (MODEL of references: AKG C3000B)
Guide rhythm PCM:
RESOLUTION: 96 tics of black
Polyphony max. 5 votes
Patterns:
Prprogramms: 50,
User: 50 (programmable by the user and importable via squence SMF)
Screen: Graphic LCD 128 x 64 pixels
Between:
Between GUITAR / BASS: Jack 6.35 mm,
MIC 1: XLR x 1 (with power fantme), Jack 6.35 mm,
MIC 2: 1 XLR (with power supply fantme), Jack 6.35 mm,
LINE IN: 2 RCA
From pedals to dexpression: 1 Jack 6.35 mm,
Between Footswitch: 1 Jack 6.35 mm,
MIDI IN: a 5-pin DIN connector
Outputs:
LINE OUT: 2 RCA
Headphone jack: 1 Stereo Jack 6.35 mm,
Numrique output: 1 S / PDIF (Optical)
MIDI OUT: a 5-pin DIN connector
Power Supply AC Adaptor (PSB-3U)

*************************************************
More dtail see www.roland.fr.
Sounds like a good, but it must be added the opinion of the user, ie me-even:

NEGATIVE POINT
- It lacks a graphical interface this device. I have 40 more slap happy to see a USB port on my recorder connected to my computer for more simplicity in the management of the device driver ... thanks a little over a DD 40 GB would not t bcp more expensive
- Same for the transfer of deals! the only way to export or import of two hands (*. wav, *. mid), the CD! It's stupid, right? A small USB port, and presto, good c'tait
- Possibility of dfragmenter the disc piece (!) Why not dfragment SD while world? But out o the computer from home Boss? (In case of grain?) In addition, some users complain of a crash during the procedure of dfrag. donf feared a, h!
- Do you know the version 2? I bought my BR in version 1. In the inside of the box, with a notice of version 2 + on the Roland site, they explain (but need to understand) that there are ways to upgrade its self-same BR in tl loading the file to copy to CD and then introduced into the BR (b yes, the CD is the only MDIA transfer given dj I said, it sucks). New features in version 2 are useful and enjoyable version 3 can be if we all work?
- CAUTION THIS IS SERIOUS: a small white milliseconds BEFORE AND AFTER a range of copy / paste or INSRE. It is not described on the box, but it states on the record a hideout derrire asterisk. It's not that I'm super picky, but I hear it! This "white" is heard! HORRIBLE !!!!!!! This is the note that I Saqua: 4, inexcusable.
- Synchronization: BR1180 is easy when the "Matra". Pnible when the BR is "Slave"
- Do you buy a magnifying glass! Boss made ECONOMY candle-end in Arequipa this product a notch LCD rtroclair ('reus'ment) no bigger than a calculator. While there is plenty of space and energy for a big screen + (color and then must buy a softphone for a color display?)
- Shortcut: unknown word at Boss. Tape yourself intgralit the DSIR to select the menu option that is well your little hideout. C'tait not hard to develop a small Systm Macro for rpetitives spots. Are constantly at Boss, knows no windows?

Strengths:
- Excellent "All-in-one" of the sound to write CDs: childish (but trs long because no GUI correct). Ddicace spcial effects COSM guitar and bass that I find exxxxxxxxxxxxcellentissime.
- Extremely portable and robust (at least aa air): you follow the o you and it's good, because it is sometimes easier to get a studio musicians, some musicians in a studio
- In version 2: possibility to import via MIDI IN on the track a squence Rhythm stroddi trs a well!
- Cheap for what it is, finally.

UTILIZATION

It is mainly what has brushes with the BR1180: is the use we can make.
Apart from the function of a recorder Premire, ie of SAVE, there a lot of cool stuff for small Jammer or work on this device.
Thus gnrateurs overpowering effects algorithms allow any vintage sound (be it a little connatre effects loop, but the components are of good quality and we trs can find any sound. I've heard (but still confirmed) that the components of the effects of BR1180 taient the same as that of Pdalier GT6, REFERENCE of p Dali now.
Thus, a Stretch mode lets you rduire tempo by 2 without the pitcher tonalitbr /> So a filter on the central frquences allows you to Karaoke
Thus, a guide rhythm (do not call a rhythm box, it would EXAGRES allows you to return a tube of aspirins create your drum track patterns stroddie (and Midif), so a track (or two) of good ... You Save!
LOOP mode and exists for a work of phrass complicated solos (using the Stretch Loop mode possible). But there is a blank between each loop: not good!
And a CD player allows you to import any song: the IDAL to work again!
Making sounds: Max 2 tracks simultaneously (attention, Mix Audio recording mode does not allow you to record more tracks simultaneously)

So if you rcapitule: AUTONOMY
BR1180 with: a guitar and a jack, need anything else (although other musicians can help rvler): To record for boeuffer (with self-same), for improving your technique to learn the sound and mastering, the BR1180 is done.

SOUNDS

Ben is the numrique, then: High Fidler. Is clear. EXACTLY what you mean to record yourself hertz prs. Now the quality of the sound your ears, it's much the speakers playing, and more or less air you breathe vici (and it's nothing to say).
Note also a Mastering Tool Kit for the "Ready for FM" as they say. It looks good this kit, but I have not had time to test ... I am not l. We'll see when my sound will be taken over.

Also note: a pregnant simulator mastering ... I do not know what a is, should be compared with real speakers ... mouaif, blah.

I have no complaints about the drum sounds are not so bad ...

OVERALL OPINION

I'm happy! Exactly what I needed for my small amateur musician wishing to leave some traces of postre. It's been a month since I use this device three hours a day, and I enjoy a lil crazy.
The BR1180 is a fabulous toy drive with € 950. It will not replace a real studio with a real producer, but it can evolve srieusement, either alone or in groups, to work Fast Fashion relatively extensive production. LONG LIVE DEMO! Long live independence!

In any case, numrique or not, one thing remains sre: if you want a good recording begins to play!

Read more below

See manufacturer site

UTILIZATION

The manual is clear trs, even someone in the home studio beginners can understand and use the machine. This is a device that looks more towards solo musicians. Besides the return to Belgium and Repair Tool is a product changes that you can buy your eyes closed. In addition, the Service is super nice spot and (thank you Bart)!
Ngatifs points: the lack of direct connection and the USB or FireWire connection that often crashes Midi ...

SOUNDS

For sound I have not given as much say that I'm using it for recording. Processing, mixing, etc., is done by computer. Effects for voice, guitar and bass everything is complete.

OVERALL OPINION

has been ending for a year I use the SAV t trs rapid (one month round trip). I use it every day, nothing wrong. My reagrd is doing to the BR 1600 now ...

Audio: RCA and between analog / midi in and out.
Frquence: 16 bits/44khz.
Hard disc: 20GB.
two tracks simultaneously.

UTILIZATION

Voila !!!!!
its been two years since I use this box (1400 euros in Guadeloupe the era).
for those who like the hardware is the solution!! crazy dancehall and hiphop, this gem is a marvel! I go everywhere I travel ... Paroutis I board my studio in my bag with my microphone (samson c01) my foot in hand, and it's good! It gives me the instrumental band, and I put my vote! A small prampli does not hurt ... I bidoulleur, no need for manual, I mixx all my models, with dupplates.
The big "ic" is that it is not possible to assign multiple tracks comprsseurs so I RULES voice when I empty valid on another track and I proceed to give suivantes.Sa bossent well !!!!!
Otherwise just burn a cd any mode (back up) and to return any software on pc! The drum machine (nice To register a quick beat) but hey ....
I do everything with me, copy and paste on tunes such as reverb, delay, four "two bands" on each track, standardize, master (the need to go easy = not play her).
I board a small problem with the drive, which has default USB port is very very important ...
I think that after formatting, and cd's will CLEANING! This machine took adjas Shots: his wishes.
I can not sell it: too practical !!!!!!!

SOUNDS

A lamp to the cold numrique does not hurt, if it sounds good the ERRF!

OVERALL OPINION

More than two years of practice! conmpacte!

T say everything on the CHARACTERISTICS of the beast, for résumé: is it for this price range! (I too am lazy)

UTILIZATION

Very easy to take in hand, assz intuitive, the manual is clear and complete.
The possibility of shipping ... Well, it's aa numrique in what could be simpler and more practical to copy and paste and whatnot, or when the prod-sound becomes almost as simple as word processing.
Trs used well in groups to the model, each registers its shares, may drive a squenceur at the same time for the click and keyboards, nickel.
Only BMOL: the "pace bote" intgre that I understand the use DEFINITIONS waived.

SOUNDS

His numrique, a little cold but can be clean. Mastering functions can edit the final mix and make it a little more "hot" before burning, for example.

OVERALL OPINION

We use it in groups of three years and is a tool for the composition IDAL and pr-prod. The limited number of runs (8 in a simultaneous bp is not the end user.
Ah, pi is the virtual tracks, but also practical: you make a decision Stereo guitar on tracks 4-5, you think you can do better but you'd like to keep well if your version Premire z'o hop, you spend 4-5/1 to 4-5/2 in and you renregistres. APRS you zap between 2 (or 3.4 ... up to 8 I think) taken to see that you keep, and with a bit of shipping you can keep the same 4 Premire Measures 1 and the rest of the 2 ...
Super qualitprix report, I would do the same choice without hsitation!