The operating system and firmware inside your VP-9000 can be easily updated by switching on with a specially prepared "Update ZIP disk" inserted. It is important to be running the latest version as the early versions are known to have lots of bugs causing crashes and instability. The latest version is 1.12 so see How to check Roland VP-9000 ROM version to see if yours needs updating.
Getting the update package
The official update package is still available from the official Roland web site, but in case this gets deleted it is also attached below. There are 2 different files depending on whether you are using a PC or a Mac to generate your Zip disk. Download the file and copy the contents to the root of a blank ZIP disk.
Update Instructions:
1) "Power OFF the VP-9000"
2) Insert the Zip Disk with the VP-9000 OS Update file
3) "Hold Down PERFORM & SAMPLING " and at the same time POWER ON the VP-9000. "Release the Perform & Sampling buttons" when the VP display says "VP 9000 Update... Never Shut Down" during the OS Update. The VP will automatically run the OS Update. The Zip Disk should eject from the VP
4) When done, "POWER DOWN the VP-9000, then POWER ON".
To check the new OS version hold down SHIFT, then press EXIT. That's all. If your update file was good, your VP will be updated and good to go!
