Modular Synthesizer

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After a recent resurgence, and thanks to the Eurorack format, modular synthesizers continue to grow in popularity. With roots in the dawn of synthesis, modular synthesizers let you design your own electronic instrument, with deep control of each building block. Unparalleled control over how it’s patched lets you craft your own custom sounds and explore the outer bounds of sound design. Roland has a deep history in modular synthesis, having made several modular and semi-modular synthesizers that are now highly sought-after by collectors.

In 2015, Roland partnered with Malekko Heavy Industry to bring back these legendary instruments as a series of fully analog Eurorack modules. The SYSTEM-500 was born, finally making the sound of these rare instruments available to today’s musicians. And for 2018, there are four new additions to the SYSTEM-500 family. These modules expand on the SYSTEM-100m-based modules and explore fresh territory.

The New Classic

The SYSTEM-500 consists of Eurorack modules that you can mix and match in any combination to create the ultimate Roland modular synthesizer. They’re also a perfect way to inject vintage Roland sound into your existing modular setup. Each module is completely analog and made to exacting standards in a collaborative design and production process between Malekko in Portland, USA and Roland in Hamamatsu, Japan. Designed for maximum compatibility with the world of contemporary synthesizer and effects modules, the SYSTEM-500 delivers vintage Roland character and functionality in a modern system. And the possibilities for sound design and musical exploration are vast.

This is Roland Sound

It’s hard to describe what the “Roland Sound” is—but you’ve heard it on countless worldwide hits and underground classics. Something about the character of Roland electronic instruments continues to make them perennial favorites of musicians and producers. For over 40 years, the Roland sound has moved artists to create new genres, moved music forward, and moved feet on dance floors. Often imitated, the SYSTEM-500 brings truly authentic Roland sound to your studio setup or live rig.

SYSTEM-500 510

SYSTEM-500 505

SYSTEM-500 555

SYSTEM-500 531

SYSTEM-500 512

SYSTEM-500 521

SYSTEM-500 530

SYSTEM-500 540

SYSTEM-500 572

The Stuff of Legend

The history of Roland modular synthesizers goes back to the mid-1970s. The almost-mythical SYSTEM-700 was the first modular synthesizer ever made in Japan and was followed by the more affordable SYSTEM-100m. The 100m is a favorite of electronic music producers to this very day and working units fetch a high price on the used market. The SYSTEM-700 is extremely rare, slipping into the realm of unobtanium. The SYSTEM-500 brings the unmistakable vintage character of these legendary synths to your own studio and for use in your own tracks.

PLAY MOVIE

Expand Your Horizons

Modular synthesizers are a wonderful way to break down barriers and move your music into new creative territory. If you already use Roland Boutique or AIRA gear, a world of sonic exploration is just on the other end of a cable. The TR-8S has up to seven trigger outputs so you can incorporate unique modular percussive sounds or sync up modular sequencers. With pattern variations and individual last-step per pattern, the TR-8S paired with a modular setup is a formidable creative force.

You can use the SH-01A’s CV/Gate outputs to sequence a modular system or send modulation signals. Add a K-25m for a small, playable modular synth that doesn’t take up a lot of room and that you can even take with you. Pair up a SYSTEM-500 with a TB-03 and you get all the adored funkiness of the 303’s sequencer injected into a modular setup. All you need is a few cables.

Experimentation is Rewarded

Exploring modular synthesis seems pretty daunting, and you’d be forgiven for thinking it takes a wall of expensive modules and an engineering degree to get anything out of it. But the truth is you only need a few good modules to start the journey. The SYSTEM-500 is a great way to begin exploring modular synthesis with minimal space and outlay. Start with an SYS-510 and you’ve got a pre-patched synth voice with OSC, VCF and VCA. Add an SYS-540 or SYS-555 and you’ve already got an extremely capable modular synth core that you can build around. With the SYSTEM-500 you get pure vintage tone and classic functionality from a pioneering name in modular synthesis. Just a few modules can bring the sound and flexibility of modular synthesis to your current setup—or be the nexus of an ever-expanding system.