The Roland System-8 is a versatile synthesizer known for its powerful sound engine and flexibility. Here are some of its key features:
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ACB Technology: It utilizes Roland’s Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, which aims to recreate the sounds and behavior of classic Roland analog synths.
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Plug-Out Technology: One of its standout features is the Plug-Out capability, allowing you to load additional synths such as the Jupiter-8 and Juno-106 directly into the System-8 hardware.
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Three Oscillators: It offers three oscillators per voice, each with various waveforms and options for shaping the sound.
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Cross Modulation and FM: Cross Modulation and Frequency Modulation capabilities enable complex and evolving sounds by modulating one oscillator with another.
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Filter Section: It has a powerful filter section with various filter types (like low-pass, high-pass, etc.) and extensive controls for resonance and envelope shaping.
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LFOs and Envelopes: Multiple LFOs (Low-Frequency Oscillators) and Envelopes for modulating various parameters in real-time, enabling dynamic sound design.
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Extensive Effects: It includes high-quality built-in effects like reverb, delay, distortion, and more to further shape and enhance your sounds.
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Polyphony and Voice Modes: The System-8 offers 8-note polyphony and various voice modes for monophonic, polyphonic, and unison playing styles.
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Integrated Sequencer and Arpeggiator: It features a sequencer and an arpeggiator for creating and playing sequences and patterns.
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Assignable Knobs and Controls: The synth has a well-designed interface with assignable knobs and sliders for hands-on control and real-time tweaking of parameters.
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USB Audio/MIDI Interface: It can function as an audio and MIDI interface over USB, allowing seamless integration with DAWs and other studio setups.
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Performance Features: Performance-oriented features such as a comprehensive keyboard layout, pitch/mod wheels, and performance pads for expressive playing.
The System-8 offers a wide range of sound possibilities, from classic analog tones to more modern and experimental sounds, making it a popular choice among musicians and sound designers.