"A Beautiful Day" - Polyend Tracker / Roland MC-101 song

gattobus

"Outdoor Jam played and recorded in real time.
A lot of good vibes in the country.

Audio was recorded using a Roland R05 pocket recorder.
Video was captured with a Canon M6 mkII (22mm 2.0 lens)."

Classic Roland Synthesizer: JX-3P and PG200 Demonstration with Roland Jupiter 8 Filter

Electric Cafe

Lots of recognizable riffs in this one. See how many you can recognize. There's no mention of the Jupiter-8 filter. I was curious so I looked it up. See below.

"This video showcases the often overlooked Roland JX-3P classic synthesizer from 1983. It was the first Roland synthesizer to leave the factory with MIDI installed and for quite a lot of money you could buy the PG200 to make sounds more conveniently. With a TR-808, TR-909 hooked up to the onboard sequencer you could make some classic techno, house, trance or any other style of electronic music. The JX-03 Boutique copy was supposed to replace the original for those who didn't want the larger older unit but the sounds are not exactly the same and only four note polyphony it is more limited. The 3P may not have the raw power of the Sequential Circuits Prophet 5 but it does have a sound that's definitely professional and powerful enough on any track. Moog, Oberheim, ARP, and other synthesizer manufacturers might have the bottom end you need for some music but the JX-3P is a very underrated machine."

RE the Jupiter-8 filter via Wikipedia: "The VCF was based on the custom Roland IR3109 IC (also used in the filter circuits of the Jupiter-6, later Jupiter-4 and Promars units, MKS-80 rev 4, Juno-6/Juno-60/Juno-106, SH-101, MC-202, JX-3P and packaged in the 80017a chip used in the Juno-106 and MKS-30, among others)."

Interesting. They all sound significantly different though... I owned most of these and the JX-3P seemed to have the most unique sound of the lot. It just has a different character about it.

Synthesizer von Gestern (Synths of the Past) Vol 2, Matthias Becker.

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"Beautifully-produced second volume of Matthias Becker's authoritative 'Synthesizers of the Past' book - in German, but with so many superb illustrations that it's hardly necessary to read the text. New, unused, still sealed. The photos were taken of another copy of the book.

Too many highlights to mention all, but the book covers such absolute classic synths as the Trautonium, ARP 2500, EMS Synthi 100, E-mu Modular, Steiner-Parker Synthacon, RMI Harmonic Synthesizer, Birotron, PPG 1002, Moog Taurus and Liberation, Roland System 700, Synlab Modular, Roland SH-7, Crumar DS-2, Korg Sigma, ARP Quadra, Roland RS-505 and VP-330, Fairlight CMI, Realton Variophon, Oberhaim OB-Xa, Xpander and OB-SX, Gleeman Pentaphonic, RSF Kobol, Emulator 1, Synergy, Roland SH-101, TB-303, TR-606, MC-202, Jupiter 6, Syntec Banana, SCI Prophet T8, OSCar......... an incredible roster which would (in the beautiful condition they are in the photos) probably now be worth over half a million US dollars.

All with superb photos by Dieter Stork. Hardback, beautifully printed on very high quality paper, bound to the highest standards. A coffee-table book which is also a superb source of information. The Rolls-Royce (OK, Mercedes) of synth literature. (I should know - I produced the Ford Fiestas of the genre.) ISBN 3927954012, printed in 1995."

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Barely recognizable tunes on the Jupiter's quirky Intelligent Arpeggiator

Published on May 30, 2020 Woody Piano Shack

"All-playing no-talking boring demo of the ROLAND JUPITER Xm preset sounds. Let's enjoy the preset scenes and play the pads, drums, synth bass, brass and various other patches. We'll put the arpeggiator through it's paces and play some barely recognisable iconic 80s synthpop riffs. Same synthesizer ZEN CORE engine and patches as the ROLAND JUPITER X, FANTOM, MC 101, MC 707, RD 88 and more!"

Division 6 CEM3340 VCO & Business Card Sequencer

Published on May 17, 2020 matrixsynth

Update: crazy little noodle added above. Description: "I don’t know what this is, but it sure is fun. Division 6 CEM3349 VCO oscillator sweep, Malekko Richter Oscillator II sequenced by Division 6 Dual Mini Sequencer and Tiptop BD808 and SD808 triggered by Z8000 Matrix Sequencer/Programmer. Noisering modding the Oscillator II for a little added grit. All through Mattson Mini Modular JP VCF and finally TC Electronic M300. Peeeeew!!! Kidding aside, listen to how low it goes with decent speakers. The CEM3340 was used in the Moog Memorymoog, Oberheim OB-Xa, Octave Voyetra Eight, Roland SH-101, MC-202, Jupiter-6, MKS-80, Sequential Circuits Prophet-5 10 & T8, Pro-One, Prophet-600, Banana Poly Synth, Crumar Spirit, Synton Syrinx, and more. See for yourself here. The Curtis CEM3340 was re-issued in 2016."

A few pics of a surprise package in the mail the other day. :) A Division 6 CEM3340 VCO & V2 update chips for my Business Card Sequencer. Pics of them in the rack below. Looking forward to giving them a run through.

See the Division 6 website for additional details on each.

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ZENOLOGY is an Incredible Software Synthesizer at an Astonishing Price

Published on May 16, 2020 Woody Piano Shack

"Demo, tutorial and review of the brand-new ROLAND ZENOLOGY SOFTWARE SYNTHESIZER featuring the ZEN CORE sound engine technology and thousands of the presets found in the ROLAND FANTOM, JUPITER X, JUPITER Xm, MC 707, MC 101, RD 88 and more. This is the latest release in the newly revamped Roland Cloud.

We'll do a walkthrough of the UI checking out the features and of course playing the piano, pad and acoustic sounds."

Gabe Miller Music: Ranking Synths and Grooveboxes - Best to worst

Published on May 13, 2020 Gabe Miller Music

"In which I rank my synths, grooveboxes, and production stations from best to worst (although they're all pretty good).

Sound demos of everything mentioned in this video: [playlist below]

The gear list:
1. Novation Circuit
2. Arturia MicroFreak
3. Teenage Engineering OP-1
4. Korg Electribe 2 - synth version
5. Roland MC-101
6. BOSS RC-202 Looper
7. Teenage Engineering PO-33 K.O."

Roland MC-101, JU-06A, and Octatrack MK2 performance at Patchwerks

Published on Apr 18, 2020 Patchwerks Seattle

"In this video Matthew Piecora (aka EZBOT) performs on the Roland MC-101, the Roland JU-06A, and the Elektron Octatrack. The focus of the performance was to showcase the MC-101's potential in a live scenario, playing with other instruments.

From Roland:
"Produce and perform music anywhere, anytime—without clutter or complications. The MC-101 GROOVEBOX has all the high-quality sounds, sequencing, and effects of the professional MC-707, in a compact four-track version that’s go-everywhere portable. Get started with an inspiring collection of ready-to-go sounds and patterns, or easily create your own. Craft a unique style by importing custom sounds and loops that sync to tempo. And you can perform with the MC-101, triggering clips and shaping your sounds with direct, hands-on control."

Order the Roland MC-101 here: https://bit.ly/roand_mc_101

From Roland:
"The JU-06A is the best of the JUNO-60 and JUNO-106 in one synth. It has the continuous high-pass filter of the 106, the envelope-controllable pulse-width-modulation of the 60, and the unique filter behavior of both, instantly switchable from the front panel. The sound is indistinguishable from its vintage counterparts, even while tweaking controls or using extreme settings. And no vintage JUNO would be complete without the swirling sound of its legendary chorus, faithfully recreated, right down to the lovable (and thankfully adjustable) noise."

Order Roland JU-06A here: http://bit.ly/Roland_JU-06A

From Elektron:
"During its seven year life span, the original Octatrack quickly became one of the most widely used live performance samplers. An industry standard if there ever was one. It undoubtedly changed the way gear setups look like and gave artists the power to perform live in the truest sense of the word. Now the Octatrack MKII is here. Sharper, better, more robust. It proudly carries the legacy of its predecessor, confirming the position as the creative artist’s instrument of choice."

Order the Octatrack MK2 here: http://bit.ly/octatrack_sampler

https://patchwerks.com/
Demo by: Matthew Piecora
https://www.youtube.com/EZBOTMUSIC"

Roland Keyboards Vol 3 - Product Sheet Brochure Catalog

Additional scans in via Corey. This one features the Roland Keyboards Vol 3. This one is 24 pages. You can find hi-res copies here. Click here for additional brochures in via Corey.

The list:
MC-4 Microcomposer
MTR-100 Digital Cassette Recorder
System-100M
OP-8 CV Interface
JX-3P & PG-200
Jupiter-8
Jupiter-6
Juno-60
Juno-6
SH-101
EP-606 Dual Voice Combo Piano
Piano Plus 70 / 60 / 11 / 30
RS-09
VK-09
Digital Sequencers - CSQ-600 / CSQ-100
Keyboard Amplifiers
Rhythm Machines
Rack Series
Mixing Amplifiers & Boss Mixers
Echo Changers
Keyboard Stands & Accessories

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Synthpop Jam on the Roland MC-101

Published on Mar 23, 2020 Gabe Miller Music

"A synthpop / synthwave jam on the Roland MC-101 groovebox. First impressions: this thing is pretty cool!"

ROLAND MC 101 as SOUND MODULE with ABLETON?

Published on Mar 7, 2020

"Quick performance with ROLAND MC 101 Groovebox with ABLETON LIVE and NOVATION LAUNCHPAD. Just a little demo to show how it can be used as an external sound module together with your favorite DAW software sequencer. You'll be able to hear some of the drums and Zen Core synth sounds that this little machine has to offer, the same as the ROLAND MC 707."

Synth and Software NAMM 2020 Videos

Published on Jan 20, 2020 synthandsoftware

Playlist:
Synth and Software - NAMM 2020 - Roland
Synth and Software - NAMM 2020 - Boss SY-1000 Guitar Synthesizer
Synth and Software - NAMM 2020 - Roland Jupiter X Synthesizer
Synth and Software - NAMM 2020 - Roland Fantom 6 Synthesizer Keyboard
Synth and Software - NAMM 2020 - Roland Jupiter-Xm Synthesizer
Synth and Software - NAMM 2020 - Roland JU-06A Sound Module
Synth and Software - NAMM 2020 - Roland MC-707 Groovebox
Synth and Software - NAMM 2020 - Roland MC-101 Groovebox
Synth and Software - NAMM 2020 - Korg Wavestate - Wave Sequencing Synthesizer
Synth and Software - NAMM 2020 - Korg MS20 Synthesizer
Synth and Software - NAMM 2020 - Korg ARP 2600 FS Semi Modular Synthesizer

Data Run [Cover] - Boutique / Circuit / Crave / MC-101 / PRO-1 / TR-8

Published on Jan 24, 2020

"This track was the theme tune to on of TV-am's early Saturday morning show, Data Run - 1983-84

Music by Vince Clarke, Sung by Alison Moyet, all I can find on the web is a couple of 40+ second videos of this track, I thought it was deserving enough to be fleshed out a little...

Thank you to kvfive for help with some of the audio samples.

As always, the track is played 'live' in one take - with no DAW, editing or post production.

Recorded live 24/01/2020

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Flailing around on the Roland MC 101 at NAMM 2020

Published on Jan 20, 2020 Red Means Recording

"The Roland booth at NAMM 2020 was a bit of a fustercluck. I had booked time there but I realized I didn't know what that meant and I couldn't find anyone I had talked to. So I hunkered down on the MC-101 and tried it out. This is that footage."

Roland Unveils ZEN - Core Synthesis System

Roland Fantom - "Hyperwave" song with new Zen-Core Tones!

Published on Jan 15, 2020 gattobus

"A new song, composed and performed on the new Roland Fantom Synthesizer. Recorded via USB, digital multitrack audio outs in Ableton Live 10.

Every sound you hear comes from the internal Zen-Core Engine. (Compatible with Fantom - JupiterX/Xm).

You can download this Tones for free here, following this link:
https://www.roland.com/global/support..."

And Roland's press release:

A new synth engine embodying nearly 50 years of experience

Anaheim, CA, January 15, 2020 — Roland (NAMM Hall A, Booth #10702), announces the ZEN-Core Synthesis System, a powerful new engine found at the heart of the company’s latest (and future) electronic instruments. With ZEN-Core, Roland applies the wisdom gained from nearly 50 years of making world-leading analog, digital, and hybrid synthesizers to create an adaptable new platform that both embraces the legendary and looks to what’s next.

Through ZEN-Core, Roland assures a consistent level of sonic quality and expression regardless of instrument. With the confidence of access to the same, growing library of compatible sounds that they can share and exchange, musicians and producers can focus on choosing hardware with features that best suit their application, playing style and workflow, from performance and production synthesizers to GROOVEBOXES, stage pianos, and more.

With the forthcoming system updates, owners of FANTOM 6/7/8 Synthesizers (Version 1.50*), JUPITER-X Series Synthesizers (Version 1.10) and RD-88 Stage Pianos will be able to start using the same compatible sounds across all models, adding a new collaborative capability to their instruments. An update for the MC-101 and MC-707 GROOVEBOXES will also be available in Q2 2020, with an update planned for AX-EDGE later this year.

ZEN-Core base engine tones created on one instrument can be shared with other users or transferred into completely different compatible Roland hardware. Performers can take sounds made on a FANTOM and play them in the spotlight on an AX-Edge Keytar, or perform a JUPITER-X synth patch on an RD-88, dramatically simplifying setup and expanding tonal options. Sounds are easily shared with a bandmate or co-creator, even when using different compatible Roland hardware. With ZEN-Core, users have access to the sounds they want, in the format they want, wherever they produce or perform.
 
The Roland ZEN-Core multi-timbral engine combines the latest Virtual Analog and PCM (up to 256 voices) synthesis techniques with powerful DSP effects. Advanced synthesis features include new VA oscillators, precisely modeled filters, ultra-fast and smooth LFO and envelope modulators, and high-resolution control of primary editing and performance parameters. Sounds created for the base engine will be compatible across all ZEN-Core instruments, opening-up a world of opportunities for creators and sound designers alike.
 
ZEN-Core supports instrument-specific ZEN-Core Expansions including Analog Behavior Modeling for the JUPITER-X series and V-Piano for the new FANTOM Series. Further ZEN-Core expansions will soon arrive for other instruments in the Roland ZEN-Core family.

For more on Roland ZEN-Core, please visit Roland.com.

*Beta version as of today. Official release is planned in late January 2020.

King Kobold | Gleevus Transmission

Published on Jan 5, 2020 Federal Honey

"Created with Roland MC-101, using some samples from Legowelt's website, and a Novation Bass Station II. Recorded into Fostex cassette 4-track."

And previously:

Gleevus Transmission

Published on Dec 26, 2018 Federal Honey

"All sounds created with the Korg Microkorg. Some reverb added in the daw."

Live Techno with Cristian Varela and the Roland MC-707 & MC-101 GROOVEBOX

Published on Dec 26, 2019 RolandChannel

"DJ, producer, label founder, festival organiser and one of the most enthusiastic people you’ll ever meet—Cristian Varela is on a mission to take techno to the masses. Week in, week out, the Spanish-born powerhouse plays to huge crowds all over the world, often adding live performance elements into the mix to give himself an edge.

As the owner of the coolest customised MC-505 you’ll ever see, Cristian talks about how he got started with the Roland GROOVEBOX range, his twenty-year experience from the MC-505, what he thinks of the latest MC-707 and MC-101, and why you’ll find them right beside him on stage, in some of the biggest—and loudest—electronic clubs in the world.

You can download exclusive FREE Roland MC-707 & MC-101 GROOVEBOX Projects from Cristian via aira.roland.com/soundlibrary, and many more presets, patches and patterns for your GROOVEBOX."

Roland MC-101 Six FREE Vintage Drum Machines

Published on Nov 21, 2019 kvfive

"Six FREE Vintage Drum Machines for the Roland MC-101 Groovebox

Linn LM-1
Boss DR-110 Graphic
Boss DR-220E
Korg MiniPops MP7
Sequential Circuits DrumTraks
Boss DR-55

To make use of these six project files (.mpj)
simply place them within the 'PROJECT' folder located on your Roland MC-101 SD Card.

To load the individual Drum Machine:

Press the 'Project' button on your MC-101,
use the data wheel to display 'LOAD' - depress the data wheel,
scroll through the project files to locate and load a machine.

These early Boss DR beat boxes had very few sounds onboard,
so I've added some phrases from the Texas Instruments vintage 'Speak & Spell' machine. (Just to fill the slots up on the MC-101)

Download link:

http://www.kv5.uk/freestuff.html

Thanks for watching :-)"

Chinese Detectives [Cover] Behringer PRO-1 / Roland MC-101 / Roland JU-06A

Published on Nov 17, 2019 Micro Banshee

"A Behringer Pro-1 & Roland MC -101 Version of Yazoo's 'Chinese Detectives'

I can't find a lot of information about this little known Yazoo track other than I remember it being played when I went to see Yazoo live in 1982 [Newcastle City Hall] During the track being played Vince was playing around with a video camera filming audience members and displaying the footage on a large screen above the stage.

I did find the following reference from an online Yazoo fan site:

'This song was only refered to as China and it eventually became I Before E Except After C, stripped back to the drumtrack...'

As far as I know this track was never officially released.

As always, the track is played 'live' in one take - with no DAW, editing or post production.

Recorded live 16/11/2019.

Also Used:
Arturia keystep [PRO-1]
Roland Boutique JU-06A
Roland Aira TR-8
Zoom MS-70CDR"

ROLAND MC-101 // First CONTACT + JAM

Published on Nov 14, 2019 LESINDES

"ROLAND MC-101 -- first contact and some jamming.
In the credits there is a litte mistake. This clip is directly and freshly out of the machine. It is only normalized and there is no additional processing done neither in pre nor in post pro!"