Roland U.S.

Unreal Sounds. Amazing Control.

More Info

Programming Heaven
The V-Synth is an instrument for those who like to program - and for those not satisfied with today's variety of synthesizers. V-Synth's variable oscillator with VariPhrase technology brings life to otherwise static waveforms. And it's not just the sound engine, but the way players can interact with it. From the luxurious feel of the 61-note velocity-sensitive keyboard with aftertouch to the interactive control only possible with physical knobs and sliders to the dynamic TimeTrip Pad, Twin D Beams and touchscreen, V-Synth lets you explore entirely new realms of sound never before possible.

Variable Oscillators: The Heart of the V-Synth
The V-Synth's dual oscillators are unlike any previous oscillator design, with a choice of three different types:

The PCM oscillator is powered by VariPhrase for complete sonic control. Choose from hundreds of preset waveforms or sample your own. Then use the "Time Trip" function to manipulate a waveform's time aspect in any way you wish. Slow it down to uncover rich moving harmonic content; speed it up to create high-speed tonal motion; freeze it at your favorite spot; or rewind it backward at any speed without changing pitch and formant, which can also be independently controlled. You've never heard sounds like these!

Analog Modeling is the second oscillator type. Here you'll find nine traditional fat-sounding analog waveforms - strengthened by Roland's latest modeling technology to give them even more warmth and punch.

The third oscillator type is External Audio Processing, which lets you process any signal arriving at the V-Synth's analog inputs. All oscillator types can be layered and mixed in several ways, or modulated using FM, ring mod and oscillator hard sync.

Intuitive Programming and Control
The V-Synth's sound engine can be configured in several different ways by choosing from preset Structure types - just like a semi-modular synth! Front-panel Structure buttons make it easy to dive in, while a host of knobs, sliders and buttons give you direct access to vital sound parameters. Even the most detailed editing can be performed quickly using the large touchscreen, which even responds to dragging motions - great for setting envelope curves!

The real magic begins when interacting with the V-Synth's knobs and controllers. With the TimeTrip Pad, you can scan a waveform forward and backward using your fingertip. Imagine adding expressive articulation to a lead vocal sample! Or use the Twin D Beams to modify a range of controllers using infrared light beams. The V-Synth's arpeggiator can even modulate sound parameters. Nothing else provides this type of interaction and creative control.

COSM Processing and Effects
In lieu of a basic multi-mode filter, the V-Synth offers two dedicated COSM modeling processors for shaping sounds. So in addition to having access to analog-style filters, you can also plug into new types of processors like polyphonic guitar amp modeling, a Wave Shaper, Resonator (polyphonic waveform processing through a modeled resonation body) and a unique Side Band Filter capable of pulling out the sharper, metallic content of sounds. Of course, there are also global effects including a dedicated reverb processor with ten reverb types, a chorus processor with eight types, and a killer multi-effects processor with 41 distinct algorithms. With tools like these, sounds can be molded however you like.

USB Connectivity
With its flexible I/O and USB port, the V-Synth provides endless possibilities for serious sound designers. Use the analog or digital inputs to sample your own waveforms to be used in the variable oscillator. You can even exchange .WAV and AIFF files via the built-in USB port, which also works for MIDI. Resampling is also possible, allowing users to capture any performance with the TimeTrip Pad, D Beam or arpeggiator - or even effected sounds - as an entirely new waveform. All Preset Patches are fully re-writeable, giving users plenty of space for their own creations, which can also be saved via USB to a computer or to an optional PC card. And by purchasing readily available PC card adapters, other media such as CompactFlash, SmartMedia and MicroDrives can be used.

V-LINK Onboard Video Control
V-LINK is another new approach to creative expression, allowing playback and even performance of video clips with music created on the V-Synth; all you need is the Roland DV-7PR Digital Video Workstation (sold separately). Use V-LINK to trigger different video clips with V-Synth's keyboard while using the bender to change playback speed. Using the TimeTrip Pad, you can scan a clip forwards or backwards with your finger, or change colors using the Twin D Beams. Explore new dimensions in sound and video with V-Synth!

Unreal Sounds. Amazing Control.

Specs

V-Synth (Version 2.0 and later)

Keyboard

61 keys (with velocity and channel aftertouch)

Sound Generator

Sound Generator Configuration

Oscillator (envelope x 4 + LFO x 1) x 2
Modulator x 1
COSM (envelope x 2 + LFO x 1) x 2
TVA (envelope x 1 + LFO x 1) x 1

Methods by Which Oscillators Produce Sound

PCM/Variphrase (Preset waveforms + Sampling waveforms),
Analog Modeling (14 waves: SAW, SQUARE, TRIANGLE, SINE, RAMP, JUNO, HQ-SAW, HQ-SQUARE, NOISE, LA-SAW, LA-SQUARE, SUPER-SAW, FEEDBACK-OSC, X-MOD-OSC),
External Input

Modulator

4 types (RING, FM, ENV-RING, OSC-SYNC) + MIX

COSM

16 types (OD/DS, W-SHAPE, AMP, SPEAKER, RESONATOR, SBF1, SBF2, COMB, DUAL, TVF, DYN-TVF, COMP, LIMITER, F-SHIFT, LO-FI, TB-FILTER)

Zones (Splits)

16

Parts

16 (normally)
12 (when using a rhythm kit)

Maximum Polyphony

24 voices (Varies depending on the load placed on the sound generator.

Internal Memory

Project: 1
Patches: 512
Waves: 999
Wave memory (RAM): 50 MB (When the unit ships from the factory, 32 MB of this is taken up by the preset waves.)

External Storage Device

PC CARD slot (Microdrive, SmartMedia or CompactFlash can be used with PC card adaptor.)

Effects

MFX (Multi-effects): 41 sets
Chorus: 8 sets
Reverb: 10 sets

System EQ

4 bands

Sampling Frequency

Internal: 44.1 kHz
Digital Audio IN/OUT: 96, 48, 44.1 kHz

Signal Processing

Internal processing

Sound generating section: 32 bits (floating point)
Effects section: 24 bits (fixed point)

DA Conversion

24 bits

AD Conversion

24 bits

Nominal Output Level

MAIN OUT: +4 dBu
DIRECT OUT: +4 dBu

Nominal Input Level

INPUT (LINE): -20 dBu
INPUT (MIC): -46 dBu

Arpeggiator

Patterns

User programmable (supports use of control change messages)

Motifs

8 types

Tempo

20 to 250 BPM

Multi Step Modulator

Tracks

4

Steps

16

Tempo

20 to 250 BPM

Others

Display

Graphic 320 x 240 dot backlit LCD with touchscreen

Controllers

Pitch Bend / Modulation Lever
Time Trip Pad
D Beam Controller (Twin beam)
Assignable Control Knobs (C1, C2)

Connectors

Headphones Jack
Main Output Jacks (L/MONO, R) (1/4 inch phone type)
Direct Output Jacks (L, R) (1/4 inch phone type)
Input Jacks (L, R) (1/4 inch phone type) (Equipped with line/mic gain switch)
Hold Pedal Jack
Control Pedal Jacks (1, 2) (assignable)
MIDI Connectors (IN, OUT, THRU)
USB Connector (supports file transfer and USB MIDI)
Digital Audio Interface (24-bit, IEC60958)
COAXIAL (IN, OUT)
OPTICAL (IN, OUT)
AC Inlet

Power Supply

AC 115 V, AC 117 V, AC 220 V, AC 230 V, AC 240 V (50/60 Hz)

Power Consumption

16 W

Accessories

Owner's Manual
Sound List
CD-ROM (USB Driver, Librarian)
PC CARD Protector
Power Cord

Options

Add-on application software (V-Card)
VC-1: D-50 L/A Synthesizer
VC-2: Vocal Designer
Keyboard Stand: KS-12
Pedal Switch: DP-2/6/8
Foot Switch: BOSS FS-5U
Expression Pedal: EV-5, BOSS FV-300L

Size and Weight

Width

1,056 mm

41-5/8 inches

Depth

398 mm

15-11/16 inches

Height

111 mm

4-3/8 inches

Weight

13.1 kg

28 lbs. 15 oz.

(0 dBu = 0.775 V rms)

*The specifications are subject to change without notice.

Insider

Monster Tour: Monster Players Charles Haynes and Pete Kuzma discuss Roland® electronic percussion and keyboards on Lady Gaga’s latest tour. Click for Details	Artemij Pavlov & Sinevibes If you’ve ever wondered who comes up with some of the sounds for Roland synthesizers, then meet Artemij Pavlov. Click for Details	BT The V-Synth takes flight with BT, the pioneering electronic-music producer, film composer, and solo recording artist. Click for Details
Eric Daniels & Monte Nueble Read what Mariah Carey’s talented keyboard team had to say about getting the gig, sharing the keyboard parts onstage, and building their new Roland rigs for the Adventures tour. Click for Details	Herman Jackson American Idol continues to be the biggest show on primetime TV. Keyboardist Herman Jackson has joined the famous house band for Season 5. Click for Details	Jamie Muhoberac You may not know his name, but you’ve probably heard his keyboards. From Bob Dylan to the Goo Goo Dolls, Jamie Muhoberac has been behind the scenes, helping artists fulfill their vision. Click for Details
Josh Harris Remixing the Backstreet Boys with a V-Synth XT. Here's how Josh Harris remade their track into a club anthem. Click for Details	Keith Hillebrandt Meet the master programmer/remixer who helped sharpen the edge of Nine Inch Nails, U2, David Bowie, P. Diddy, and more. Click for Details	Kumbia Kings Famous for their blend of cumbia, reggae, R&B, pop, & hip-hop, the Kumbia Kings are attracting audiences young and old. Click for Details
Lanar “Kern” Brantley Kern Brantley has been laying down deep-pocketed bass and serving as MD for a cavalcade of top stars, most recently for Destiny’s Child. Click for Details	Madonna Madonna has returned to the road for her 2006 Confessions tour. Wait 'til you see keyboardist Marcus Brown's new all-white Roland rig! Click for Details	Mercy Me It was the song heard ’round the world, the "Song of the Year" with massive crossover radio play. “I Can Only Imagine” put MercyMe on the global map. Click for Details
Monte Neuble With Mariah Carey at Live 8, Monte Neuble and his Fantom-X were seen by billions of viewers. He's also toured with Jessica Simpson, Snoop Dogg, and more. Click for Details	Orbital The beloved brothers of synth music have thrown in the towel. Paul and Phil Hartnoll, collectively Orbital, have signed off with The Blue Album. Click for Details	Paul Mirkovich As musical director and keyboardist for the RockStar INXS house band, Paul Mirkovich and his all-Roland synth rig made it look like cake. Click for Details
Roger Manning, Jr. He’s a man of many hats, many talents, and many synths. Roger Manning, Jr. is a top-call keyboardist, songwriter, and a long-time user of Roland gear. Click for Details

Accessories

Downloads & Updates

Downloads & Updates

V-Synth Refill Patches: Artist Patch Collection

V-Synth Refill Patches require that your V-Synth be running version 2 of the V-Synth OS.

V-Synth Refill Patches: David Ahlund

V-Synth Refill Patches require that your V-Synth be running version 2 of the V-Synth OS.

V-Synth Refill Patches: DJ Krust

V-Synth Refill Patches require that your V-Synth be running version 2 of the V-Synth OS.

V-Synth Refill Patches: Geoff Downes

V-Synth Refill Patches require that your V-Synth be running version 2 of the V-Synth OS.

V-Synth Refill Patches: Jordan Rudess

V-Synth Refill Patches require that your V-Synth be running version 2 of the V-Synth OS.

V-Synth Refill Patches: Marcus Browns

V-Synth Refill Patches require that your V-Synth be running version 2 of the V-Synth OS.

V-Synth Refill Patches: YUHKI

V-Synth Refill Patches require that your V-Synth be running version 2 of the V-Synth OS.

V-Synth USB Drivers Mac OS X Version 1.20

Use this driver for all Macintosh computer running OS X.
This drive adds support for Intel based Macs.

V-Synth USB Drivers (PC)

V-Synth Version 2.00 (MAC)

This is the all new Version 2 of the V-Synth, giving you the new sound set, rhythm mode, the multi-track step modulator, and enhanced oscillators. Please refer to the "readme.pdf" document for the update procedure.

Note: This is a USB update and requires a USB capable computer.

Note About Patch Compatibility: Patches created in Version 1.xx that use Preset PCM waveforms will NOT be compatible with version 2.xx. Patches that used User waveforms or Patches that use an Analog Oscillator or an External Input Oscillator are compatible with Version 2.xx.

V-Synth Version 2.00 (PC)

This is the all new Version 2 of the V-Synth, giving you the new sound set, rhythm mode, the multi-track step modulator, and enhanced oscillators. Please refer to the "readme.pdf" document for the update procedure.

Note: This is a USB update and requires a compatible USB computer running Windows 2000, ME or XP.

Note About Patch Compatibility: Patches created in Version 1.xx that use Preset PCM waveforms will NOT be compatible with version 2.xx. Patches that used User waveforms or Patches that use an Analog Oscillator or an External Input Oscillator are compatible with Version 2.xx.

V-Synth Drivers Macintosh OS 9

V-Synth Librarian (Mac)

V-Synth Librarian (PC)

V-Synth Version 2/Version 1 Patch Build (MAC)

This download contains the version 2 update with the version 1 patch build. Use this update if you need the original preset patches and waveforms. Please refer to the readme.pdf document for the update procedure.

Note: Version 2 Patches will NOT be included with this update. This update is intened for those who have custom patches using version 1 preset waveforms. Please also note that the Sound Shaper function will not work correctly with the Version 1 presets.

V-Synth Version 2/Version 1 Patch Build (PC)

This download contains the version 2 update with the version 1 patch build. Use this update if you need the original preset patches and waveforms. Please refer to the readme.pdf document for the update procedure.

Note: Version 2 Patches will NOT be included with this update. This update is intened for those who have custom patches using version 1 preset waveforms. Please also note that the Sound Shaper function will not work correctly with the Version 1 presets.

Clean-All USB Driver Utility

This utility clears out all Roland USB Windows drivers and should be used if you are having difficulty installing your USB driver.

Note: You will have to reinstall the drivers for any other Roland device that is using a USB connection for Audio or MIDI.

Support

If you have questions about operating your Roland, BOSS or Edirol product, please check our Knowledge Base for answers to the most common questions.

You can also contact our Product Support department by phone or email.

In addition, we have a library of Product Manuals and Support Documents that you can download and reference. If Support Documents are available for this product, they will be listed below.

Support Documents

The V-Synth Book (PDF)

Beyond Reality

The V-Synth Book II (PDF)

Welcome to Elastic Audio Synthesis

V-Synth TurboStart (PDF)

Sampler Compatibility Guide (PDF)

Check this PDF document for compatible drives and RAM.

V-Synth Brochure (PDF)