Chapter 8. Introduction to the VS-16801880 Series

Chapter 8. Introduction to the VS-1680/1880 Series

In early 1996, Roland introduced the VS-880 eight-track digital recorder. It was perceived by many as one of the biggest breakthroughs in the digital recording world at that time. Using Roland's own patented compression scheme (RDAC), the VS-880 was able to squeeze more recording time than previously possible from an eight-track hard disk recorder. Although some looked at this as a drawback because they thought it compromised the sound quality, the overwhelming popularity of the VS880 made it one of the most popular eight-track hard disk recorders of all time.

Roland continued to provide support for their beloved VS-880, which included new effects algorithms, the ability to play back six (as opposed to the original four) tracks of uncompressed tracks, Automix, and even a CD writer system. Finally, the VS-880 user was able to create musical works from beginning to end and walk away with a tangible , finished product that was ready to play in his favorite audio listening system.

Even though Roland's programmers were able to squeeze so much power from the little VS-880, it seemed that it would only be a matter of time before a new unit was needed. That is how the VS-1680 was born.