The TD-50 has two "MIX IN" inputs which let you connect an external audio player. This is convenient for when you want to play the TD-50 while listening to to an external source at the same time.
There is a 1/4" MIX IN input on the back panel, and an 1/8" (3.5mm) input on the front panel. Either can be used as desired and both produce the same audio quality.
To do this, all you need is the correct cable to connect your audio device to the TD-50.
When connecting to the back panel 1/4" MIX IN:
- If your audio player has an 1/8"(3.5mm) output connection, then you'll need a stereo 1/8" - 1/4" cable. This type of cable can be used to connect to your cell phone (iPhone etc.), or the headphones output on your computer.
- If your audio player has 1/4" connection for its output, you'll need a 1/4" - 1/4" stereo cable. Roland PCS-5-TRA Stereo 1/4" Cable
When connecting to the front panel MIX IN:
- If your audio player has an 1/8"(3.5mm) output connection, then you'll need a stereo 1/8" cable. Roland RCC-5-3535 Stereo 1/8" Cable
Once you have chosen the correct cable, simply connect the appropriate end to your audio device, and the opposite (1/4" or 1/8") end to the desired MIX IN jack on TD-50. Then, turn up the volume and press play on your audio player. Make sure you have headphones connected to your TD-50 and both the MIX IN and PHONES volume levels are turned up. If you have the Main outs on the TD-50 connected to an external mixer or amp, make sure the mixer / amp's volume is up and the MASTER volume knob is up on the TD-50.
Note of Caution: Never connect the "powered" speaker output from an external mixer or source to the MIX IN jacks. Doing so can damage the TD-50.
To adjust the volume of the audio player connected to the MIX IN, turn the [MIX IN] knob.
The MIX IN jack can be used not only as a stereo input but also as mono input x2. For example, if the click sound is being played through the L-channel of the MIX IN jack and the backing through the R-channel, set Mode to “MONO” so that the click and backing are both heard from the center. This setting is common to the front panel and rear panel MIX IN jacks.
- Press the [SETUP] button.
The SETUP MENU screen appears. - Press the [F3] (OPTION) button.
The option settings screen appears. - Press the [F2] (MIX IN) button.
- Use cursor buttons to select a parameter, and use the [–] [+] buttons or the dial to edit the value.
- Input: L+R, L ONLY, R ONLY
- Mode: STEREO, MONO
- Gain: 0, +6, +12 dB
- Press the [KIT] button to return to the DRUM KIT screen.
For details on parameters, please refer to the "OPTION" section in the TD-50 Data List.