The Roland VP-550 is 49-key vocal ensemble arranger and performance keyboard, that unlike a traditional vocoder or harmonizer, uses proprietary vocal-modeling technology to bring high-quality, interactive vocal sounds to a dedicated instrument.
The VP-550, which is equipped with an XLR microphone input,may be used for a wide variety of musical applications, including solo or small group musicians who need an interactive, real-time backing chorus, composers under budgetary constraints, and houses of worship in need of a choir Churches in need of a choir for services.
The VP-550 is also equipped with an ensemble section culled from string samples made in collaboration with VSL (Vienna Symphonic Library), a a well-known orchestral library manufacturer, who supplied sample wave data which was combined with Roland's proprietary sound-design technology. The unit is also equipped with high-resolution vocoder modeling, which enhances the units versatility as a pop, techno and elecctronica performance instrument.
The VP-550 is an ambitious performance instrument design for ultra-simplicity of operation; unique, practical and surprisingly affordable.