Q: “I know the Roland TD-20 module has direct audio outputs but can individual pads or controllers (especially the extra “auxiliary” inputs) be assigned to any output?”
A: In short, yes. The TD-20 has a total of 10 analog audio outputs, plus a stereo S/PDIF digital output. The first two audio outs are a Master stereo pair that carries all signals from all pads and controllers, which can be individually panned from left to right.
The eight Direct outs are configured by default as four mono outputs and two stereo pairs, with the following default assignments:
1. Kick
2. Snare
3. High-hat (including foot controller)
4. Ride cymbal (both bell and edge)
5-6. Toms 1 through 4 (panned from right to left)
7-8. Crash cymbals 1 and 2 (panned from right to left)
However, by pushing the “Setup” button on the TD-20 you can reach an output screen that allows you to reassign any pad to any direct out, or turn it off completely. The four Auxiliary inputs permit installation of additional pads, cymbals or other controllers to your kit and can also be assigned to any of direct outputs 1 through 8. When you select either of the stereo pairs (such as 5-6) you can choose output 5 alone, which will be panned hard left; 6 alone to be panned hard right; or both. The same is true of outputs 7-8.
