Roland intros BA-55 portable amp with easy switching modes

Roland has introduced its latest portable amplifier with a range of easy to use features including automatic mono/stereo output switching, echo and reverb modes, wireless microphones and either battery or mains powered operation.

Built in to the BA-55 portable amplifier is an accelerometer, similar to what you’d expect to find in the Apple iPhone or iPad, which recognises the orientation of the amp.

When used vertically, the amp automatically switches to a more powerful monophonic mode that’s great for speech and other vocals.

Turn the amp horizontally and it switches to stereo mode, good for use with MP3 players and musical instruments.

The amp is designed for use in smaller spaces, offering 108dB of sound output. It runs from 8 AA batteries or mains power.

With Wi-Fi on board, it comes with a s ingle 2.4GHz wireless microphone. A second mic can be added and used simultaneously.

There’s a 3-channel mixer and 2-band EQ on board, plus easy-to-use echo and reverb effects, a built-in anti-feedback function, plus line out. It’s compatible with Roland’s ST-A95 speaker stand.

Easy to Use and Transport

With the BA-55, ease of use is the name of the game. There’s nothing complicated about it: just turn on the wireless microphone and/or plug in your instruments, set the volume to the desired level, and go. That’s it! The BA-55’s automatic anti-feedback system blocks acoustic feedback without interrupting your audio. For easy transport, the BA-55 has a convenient built-in storage compartment to house your wireless microphones and accessories.

Multi-Purpose PA

The BA-55 lets you enjoy great sound anywhere, indoors or outdoors. Use batteries or the included AC adapter for the ultimate in convenience and flexibility— For speech, position the BA-55 vertically and the internal accelerometer will automatically switch operation to mono mode for maximum sound projection. For music, place the BA-55 horizontally and it will automatically switch to stereo mode; this is perfect when using MP3/CD players at dance parties, etc., or any application where wide sound projection is desired.

Built-In Echo/Reverb

Onboard the BA-55 is an Echo/Reverb that sounds great and is easy to use, with a single knob that adjusts both the effect type and amount. When you turn the knob from the Off position to 12 o’clock, you activate a natural plate-reverb-type effect that adds a natural ambience to your voice and/or instruments. When you turn from the 12 o’clock position to maximum, you switch to a repetitive echo-type effect. The echo/ reverb can also be turned on and off from the included DR-WM55 wireless microphone for convenient remote control (see below).

Wireless Microphone Included

The BA-55 package includes a high-quality wireless microphone (DR-WM55). Designed specifically for this system, the mic has Power On/Off and Echo On/Off switches. The Echo switch is linked to the BA-55’s Echo/Reverb effect, which lets you enable and disable it directly from the mic. This is a very handy feature, allowing the effect to be quickly turned off when speaking or making announcements, then easily switched back on for singing.

Available with a RRP of $1,249.