Roland Introduces GALAXIAS Super Instrument

video upload by RolandChannel

Press release follows.

Fifty Years of Legendary Roland Synths and Drum Machines and Thousands of Iconic Sounds in One Powerful Super Instrument, Available Exclusively on Roland Cloud

Los Angeles, CA, Nov. 14, 2023 — Roland introduces GALAXIAS, a powerful new software-based musical instrument available exclusively on Roland Cloud. Roland has been a pioneer in music technology for over half a century, delivering a continuous stream of influential instruments and effects that have fueled countless hits, defined genres, and driven cultural trends. With GALAXIAS, musicians and producers can explore and experience them all in one creative environment.

GALAXIAS runs as a standalone application on macOS and Windows. It will also be available in VST3 and AU plug-in formats for DAW music production soon after the initial release. Within GALAXIAS, users can work with any instrument on Roland Cloud and instantly access a vast searchable library with over 20,000 ready-to-play sounds. From historic icons such as the JUPITER-8, TR-808, and D-50 to modern instruments like ZENOLOGY and SYSTEM-8, GALAXIAS harnesses Roland's evolving sonic legacy into a single “Super Instrument” with infinite creative possibilities.

GALAXIAS provides the ability to layer up to four instruments and create massive sonic superclusters called Scenes. Every layer has its own key range, transpose, and MIDI input settings, plus a dedicated arpeggiator. Convenient learn and drag functionality makes it fast and easy to build intricate sounds that are deeply engaging and demand attention. Ultra-powerful macro controls offer a new level of expression with simultaneous operation of up to 128 parameters via internal LFOs or an external MIDI controller. Scenes can be organized in Setlists for live performances, complete with gapless transitions for a seamless stage experience.

In addition to the formidable effects within each individual instrument, GALAXIAS provides two insert effects per layer and two global send effects. A growing collection of authentic Roland and BOSS effects are on hand, and it’s possible to route layers to various external destinations for further processing.

The inspiring GALAXIAS interface has been carefully forged for rapid creativity and instant satisfaction. Everything is logically organized, making it simple to go deep and quickly translate ideas into great-sounding tracks. Users can delve into a single instrument layer, tweak the complete set of parameters, and get the experience of using the original hardware with Roland’s classic instrument plug-ins. With the full-screen Immersive View, the focus can be toggled between the entire Scene and an individual instrument or effect using a single click or key command.

Included with Roland Cloud Ultimate membership, GALAXIAS is a rapidly evolving platform instrument that will continue to improve with new sounds and capabilities added regularly. A 30-day free Ultimate trial provides access to GALAXIAS and everything Roland Cloud offers, including software versions of vintage Roland instruments, ZENOLOGY, Sound Packs, Wave Expansions, Zenbeats, and much more.

Availability & Pricing
Roland GALAXIAS is available now in the U.S. exclusively with the Roland Cloud Ultimate membership, which is $199 annually or $19.99 monthly.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Essential Sounds for Roland Juno-106 Model Expansion

video upload by Igor Leus

"Buy Link: https://www.natlifesounds.com/product...

NatLife Sounds present you another great sound collection for Zenology Pro synthesizer – Roland Juno-106.

It’s amazing collection of melodic sounds & patches with bias towards analog colour’s. This soundbank can bring your Zen Core instrument to a world of warmth 80′ and sharp modernity simultaneously. It gives you a full versatility, with using best from the both worlds.

These patches will perfect fit for Melodic Techno, Progressive Trance or Synthwave music.

The soundset contains 32 Roland Juno-106 Model Expansion Presets & Patches, which are:

8 Plucks
7 Leads
6 Pads
6 Bass
5 Synth
1 FX

All the sounds compatible with: Zenology software, Zenbeats, Roland Fantom, Roland Jupiter X/XM, Roland MC 707/101, Roland Ax-Edge, Roland RD-88, Fantom-0, Juno-X, Verselab MV-1 and newest Aerophone."

Roland Announces JUNO-60 Chorus Software Effect

Press release follows:

Genuine Recreation of the Chorus Effect from the Vintage JUNO-60 Analog Synth Now Available as a Standalone DAW Plug-In

Los Angeles, CA, March 8, 2022 — Roland announces the JUNO-60 Chorus, a new software effect available through Roland Cloud. Released in 1982, the JUNO-60 is a shining star in the vintage synth universe, heard on generations of famous tracks and still loved by musicians and producers today. A huge slice of its timeless magic comes from an analog stereo chorus effect that imparts so much richness and character that players rarely turn it off. With the JUNO-60 Chorus, Roland delivers the effect's elegant simplicity and authentic sound in a standalone plug-in for the first time.

The lush stereo chorus in the JUNO-60 was specially tuned to enhance the synth’s single DCO, fat sub-oscillator, and characterful VCF. Players quickly found it to be an essential component of the JUNO’s unique voice, making it hit well above its weight and compete with more sophisticated—and much more expensive—multi-oscillator polysynths of the day. With the JUNO-60 Chorus plug-in, music producers can now infuse any DAW track with the evocative color of this legendary effect.

Like the original hardware, the software version has two push-button chorus modes, plus a third “secret” mode accessed by pressing both buttons at once. Each mode is modeled in meticulous detail, complete with variable analog noise for the full retro experience. The vintage JUNO-60 vibe is carried on further with graphics that reflect the synth’s iconic panel and distinctive wood side panels.

Adding the JUNO-60 Chorus to any keyboard sound makes it come alive. It also works great with other sound sources, including guitar, bass, vocals, and more. The plug-in is available in VST3, AU, and AAX versions for Mac and Windows DAWs, and native Apple silicon support provides full compatibility with the latest Mac computers.

Availability & Pricing

The Roland JUNO-60 Chorus is available with the Ultimate membership level of Roland Cloud or a $99 Lifetime Key purchase. All paid membership plans start with a 30-day free trial of Ultimate, to experience everything Roland Cloud has to offer, including the JUNO-60 CHORUS and more. Roland Cloud is also home to software versions of many vintage Roland instruments—including the complete JUNO-60 synthesizer—plus ZENOLOGY, ZENOLOGY FX, Zenbeats, and other inspiring music tools for modern music creators.[CR1] [RG2]

Roland Announces Vocal Designer Model Expansion and Roland Cloud Connect

video upload by RolandChannel

And a user video by Robert Saint John - JUPITER-Xpert:

Roland JUPITER v2.0 - Vocal Designer & Roland Cloud Connect -New JUPITER-X / Xm Synthesizer Firmware

video upload by Robert Saint John - JUPITER-Xpert

The press release:

Powerful New Creative Tools for Owners of the JUPITER-X and JUPITER-Xm Synthesizers

Los Angeles, CA, November 16, 2021 — Roland announces two powerful creative tools for all JUPITER-X and JUPITER-Xm synthesizer owners. The Vocal Designer Model Expansion brings the company’s acclaimed vocal synthesis technology to the JUPITER-X range, opening up a new world of expressive possibilities with the dynamic character of the human voice. Roland Cloud Connect unlocks instant access to an ever-expanding universe filled with thousands of iconic sounds and expansions using just a mobile device and the included wireless adapter.

Vocal Designer Model Expansion
The most expressive instrument in the world is the one inside us all—the human voice. With the Vocal Designer Model Expansion, players can add the warmth and expression of their voices to synthesized sounds, complete with deep customization options to craft unique and memorable tones. Roland has a long history in vocal synthesis, including the famous VP and V-Synth keyboards. Now, the Vocal Designer Model Expansion brings the pinnacle of this powerful technology to the JUPITER-X and JUPITER-Xm.

After connecting a microphone to the rear panel of the JUPITER-X/-Xm, the Vocal Designer Model Expansion allows all types of synthesizer sounds to be controlled and modulated with vocal input. This enables the performer to create otherworldly textures that blend the organic expression of the voice (the modulator) with a synthesized tone or instrument sound (the carrier). The Vocal Designer Model Expansion includes 26 different vocal synthesis algorithms with a wide range of customizable options. And any ZEN-Core tone can be used as a carrier, offering a staggering number of sonic possibilities.

In addition to all-new sounds, the Vocal Designer Model Expansion offers classic vocoder sounds derived from the legendary VP series, including choir and ensemble tones, robot voices, and more. And despite its name, the Vocal Designer Model Expansion isn’t just for voice. It’s possible to use nearly any analog audio or USB input source as a modulator, including drum machines, guitars, circuit-bent toys, DAW audio tracks, or anything the user can imagine.

Roland Cloud Connect
Roland Cloud Connect is a powerful new system that revolutionizes sound expansion for the JUPITER-X and JUPITER-Xm, providing wireless access to new sounds on demand. After plugging the included WC-1 wireless adapter into their instrument, owners can use the iOS/Android mobile app to browse, audition, and install Sound Packs, Wave Expansions, Model Expansions, and more from Roland Cloud. There's a comprehensive search engine for compatible content, and selections automatically synchronize with the user's Roland Account and Roland Cloud Manager software on a desktop computer.

The purchase of Roland Cloud Connect provides an entire year of the Pro membership tier of Roland Cloud. Included is unlimited use of over 30,000 sounds, plus the Vocal Designer Model Expansion and other Model Expansions for hardware or software instruments. There’s also a full library of authentic Roland virtual instruments for DAW production, including ZENOLOGY Pro and Legendary series titles like the JD-800, JX-8P, JUNO-60, TR-808, TR-909, and many more. And for creating on the go, the Zenbeats and Zentracker music production apps are available as well. After the first year, users can renew or scale their membership up or down to meet their needs.

Support for the Vocal Designer Model Expansion and Roland Cloud Connect is included with the free Version 2.0 update for the JUPITER-X and JUPITER-Xm.

Availability & Pricing

The Roland Vocal Designer Model Expansion is available now as a Lifetime Key for $149 through Roland Cloud, or it is also included with Roland Cloud Connect Pro membership.

Roland Cloud Connect will be available in January 2022 through authorized U.S. dealers for $99 and includes the WC-1 wireless adapter as well as one year of Roland Cloud Connect Pro membership for hardware and software.

"Stranger" with Roland JUPITER-Xm Synthesizer - cover of 1985 song by Clan of Xymox

video by Robert Saint John

"Cover of the 1985 song by the goth darkwave band Clan of Xymox (Ronny Moorings, Anka Wolbert, and Pieter Nooten) on 4AD Records. Using the Roland JUPITER-Xm synthesizer, Zenbeats DAW, and ZENOLOGY Pro software synth.

Features clips from the 1920 silent film THE CABINET OF DR. CALIGARI, directed by Robert Wiene."

Roland Verselab MV-1: Did they fix its biggest flaw? "Bring Your Own Screen" added using Zenbeats

video by loopop

"By far the biggest complaint about Roland's new Verselab MV-1 was that its screen is small. BYOS may solve the problem."

Follow-up to loopop's Verselab MV-1 Review here.

Update: and the press release:

"Free Zenbeats 2.1 Update Adds Integration with Roland VERSELAB MV-1 Song Production Studio Hardware, Audio Editor Improvements, and More to Roland’s Award-Winning Zenbeats Music Creation App

Roland, a leading manufacturer and distributor of electronic musical instruments and software products, announces the availability of Zenbeats 2.1, a free update for their award-winning music creation app. Zenbeats 2.1 is packed with music creation tools allowing anyone to be creative, anytime, anywhere. New features include plug-and-play functionality with the recently released Roland VERSELAB MV-1 Song Production Studio hardware, Audio Editor improvements including Reverse and Fade functions, improved mixer, and much more.

Finish Music Faster with VERSELAB and Zenbeats

With Zenbeats, you can now connect Roland VERSELAB to your computer, tablet, or smartphone for quick and easy song production. Using hardware and software integration, enhance your workflow with full touch capabilities on mobile, graphical organization of VERSELAB clips and sections, easy tone editing, full mixing capabilities, mastering FX editing, and stem export support to any DAW right inside of Zenbeats.

Edit Audio with Reverse and Fades

With improved audio editing, users can now reverse any loop or recorded audio clip and Fade-in/Fade-out functions with non-destructive cropping to edit your audio parts with ease.

Roland Zenbeats 2.1 key features include:
Roland VERSELAB MV-1 Project Integration – Plug-and-play with VERSELAB with on-screen plugin, effects, and mixing capabilities.
Audio Editor Enhancements – Audio loops and recordings can now be edited with non-destructive cropping, smooth fading and reverse functions.
Enhanced Mixing Capabilities – Increased precision for mixer level and pan controls and better full screen support.
Flexible Audio Output with Channels – New audio output routing options enable fluid integration with outboard gear such as mixers and effects.
Simplified Audio I/O settings – With streamlined audio I/O, users can set up studio Inputs and Outputs in seconds.
MIDI Device Support Settings – Set up devices for greater control with MIDI and select more options to streamline how Zenbeats interacts with external instruments and production equipment.

Pricing options for Zenbeats include: Free, Platform Unlock, Ultimate Unlock, and Roland Cloud Membership
Free: With the free version of Zenbeats, access music production essentials and the ability to purchase additional loops and presets in the Zenbeats In-App Store.
Platform Unlock (starting at $14.99): Get all features, instruments, and effects on your favorite platform devices. Platform Unlock Includes 2,500+ presets, loops, sounds (1.5 GB), full ZC1 synthesizer with 90 built-in MFX, full SampleVerse modular synthesizer with editor, VST/AU/AUv3 plugin support, and unlimited mixing and export capabilities.
Ultimate Unlock ($149.99): Get all features, instruments, effects, and store packs on all platforms and devices. Ultimate Unlock includes 10,000+ presets, loops, sounds (7 GB), full ZC1 synthesizer with 90 built-in MFX, full SampleVerse modular synthesizer with editor, VST/AU/AUv3 support, and unlimited mixing and export capabilities.
Roland Cloud Core Membership (starting at $2.99/month or $29.99/year): Sign up for Roland Cloud Core membership and receive Zenbeats Ultimate Unlock including everything above. Plus, you’ll get access to the wider world of ZEN-Core including ongoing expansions. With this flexible workflow, users can utilize the same tones in ZC1 in ZENOLOGY and ZEN-Core-compatible hardware.

Zenbeats is available on most devices including Chrome OS systems supporting Android apps, Android 8.0+, iOS 11+, macOS 10.11+, and Windows PCs running Windows 8/10, with 2GB of RAM, and 2GB of available storage."

Roland Announces JUNO-60 Software Synthesizer

video by RolandChannel

"The Roland JUNO-60 helped define the sound of the ’80s and is highly prized for its vintage vibe and unmistakable character. Simply put, it’s the sound you hear in your head when you think of fat, punchy analog synthesizers.

With the JUNO-60 Software Synthesizer, you get the full authentic experience of this legendary keyboard in a modern software instrument for DAW-based music production. Roland’s PLUG-OUT format is also supported for computer-free operation via the SYSTEM-8 hardware synth, with all parameters automatically mapped to capture the hands-on JUNO-60 workflow.

The JUNO-60 Software Synthesizer is just the latest member of Roland Cloud’s Legendary series, which includes plug-in versions of the JUNO-106, JUPITER-8, TR-808, TR-909, D-50, and many other classics. Roland Cloud is also home to an ever-expanding collection of creative tools to keep your music flowing, including the powerful ZENOLOGY software synth, Model Expansions, Sound Packs, Zenbeats, and much more."

And the press release:

Iconic 1980s Polysynth Now Available as a Legendary Series Plug-In Through Roland Cloud

Los Angeles, CA, February 16, 2021 — Roland announces the JUNO-60 Software Synthesizer, the latest addition to the Legendary series of software-based Roland instruments available through Roland Cloud. The original Roland JUNO-60 hardware synth helped define the sound of ’80s music and is still highly prized for its vintage vibe and unmistakable character. With the JUNO-60 Software Synthesizer, the authentic experience of this influential keyboard is now available as a modern software instrument for Mac and Windows DAWs.

Released in 1982, the JUNO-60 was among the earliest models in Roland’s iconic JUNO series, and is an all-time favorite for many synth aficionados. With a winning formula of a single DCO, fat sub-oscillator, and characterful VCF—plus a massive swirling chorus effect—the instrument has found its way onto innumerable tracks through the years. Powered by Roland’s proprietary Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, the software version recreates the sonic experience and approachable architecture of the JUNO-60 in startling detail, allowing users to craft rich, inspiring sounds with little effort.

The JUNO-60 Software Synthesizer fully captures the original’s balanced magic—including the odd quirks and charming limitations—and enhances it with useful modern additions. The filter has been modeled to perfection, and users have the ability to switch to the HPF circuit of the next-generation JUNO-106 and its characteristic bass bump. The oscillator range has also been extended, and there’s a second envelope for extra flexibility. Polyphony has been expanded to eight notes, with the option to limit it to the original’s six (or less) for an old-school vibe.

A huge part of the JUNO-60 sound is its lush chorus circuit. Like the original, the software version has two push-button chorus modes, plus a third “secret” mode accessed by pressing both buttons at once. Taking things further, there’s an additional chorus option with the sound of the vintage BOSS CE-1 pedal, along with a selection of reverb, delay, flanger, and overdrive effects.

The JUNO-60 Software Synthesizer is VST3, AU, and AAX compatible and also supports Roland’s PLUG-OUT format for computer-free operation with the SYSTEM-8 hardware synth. And for DAW-focused workflows, it’s possible to use the SYSTEM-8 or a Roland Boutique JU-06/JU-06A for one-to-one, hands-on control of the JUNO-60 plug-in.

The JUNO-60 Software Synthesizer is just the latest member of Roland Cloud’s Legendary series, which includes plug-in versions of other Roland classics like the JUNO-106, JUPITER-8, TR-808, TR-909, D-50, and more. Legendary titles are available with the Ultimate membership level of Roland Cloud. All paid levels – including Core and Pro – start with a free 30-day trial of Ultimate, allowing users to try out the JUNO-60 and all Ultimate features. In addition, any Roland Account holder can purchase Lifetime Keys for individual Legendary series titles. This provides unlimited access for as long as their account is active, even if they don’t have a Roland Cloud membership.

For more information on the JUNO-60 Software Synthesizer: ➤ JUNO-60: https://www.roland.com/us/products/rc..."
---
If you are curious why the JUNO-60 is available as a PLUG-OUT for the SYSTEM-8, but not the Jupiter-X or Jupiter-Xm, the SYSTEM-8 uses ACB (Analog Circuit Behavior) technology, while the Jupiter-X and Xm use ABM (Analog Behaviour Modeling) via Roland's new ZEN-Core engine. The following touches on the differences between them.

Roland ACB versus ABM - Getting real answers from #Roland​
video by Nu-Trix The Synth Guy

Roland SYSTEM 100 Overlay for System-1m - DIY Free Download

video by Robert Saint John

"I've finished my #SYSTEM100​ makeover for the #Roland​ #System1m​, and now you can DIY too: I am making my "SYSTEM-100 MODEL-1M" overlay design template available for FREE (under Creative Commons CC-BY-NC 4.0) at http://bit.ly/SYS100ZIP​ (link directly to zip file).

This video summarizes the build process and shows my own finished version, including custom side panels and classic style knobs. Original tune "100M Light Years" by me, with all sounds (multitracked in Zenbeats) from the System-1m with the SYSTEM-100 Plug-Out, available through Roland Cloud."

DAW-less DAW? MV-1 VERSELAB Review and full song-making tutorial for Roland's portable studio

video by loopop

"Can you produce a full song with vocals on Roland's MV-1 Verselab? Here's my attempt to reproduce a professionally produced track.

TIMELINE:
0:00​ Intro
1:45​ Overview
8:15​ Connectivity
9:20​ Building a song
12:40​ Arranging vocals
14:00​ Vocal processing
16:25​ Kit & track plan
18:00​ Sound design
19:55​ Kit design
20:55​ Sampling
21:45​ Editing samples
22:45​ Looper tracks
24:15​ Step sequencing
25:40​ Live sequencing
26:35​ Automation
27:30​ Effects
30:30​ Zenbeats
31:10​ Quick tips
33:40​ Pros & cons
38:55​ Full track mixdown"

CHI (チ) featuring Roland SYSTEM 100 Synthesizer (HD music video demo)

video by Robert Saint John

"CHI (チ), a performance with the Roland SYSTEM 100 semi-modular analog monosynth from 1975. I'm using the Roland Boutique A-01 Controller+Generator to both trigger the gate of the Model 104 Sequencer and to maintain sync between the System 100 and an iPad running Zenbeats, for its CR-78 based drumkit. Model 103 Mixer provides spring reverb and is connected to the BOSS RE-20 SpaceEcho. Live performance captured with Roland GO:Mixer.

CHI (チ) by Robert Saint John, Music and Video © ℗ 2021"

JUPITER-Xpert - Roland Jupiter-X & Jupiter-Xm Tutorials

"Video Tutorials by Robert Saint John for the JUPITER-Xpert blog related to the Roland #JupiterX and #JupiterXm synthesizers"

Playlist:
Simple Arpeggios on JUPITER-X and Xm - New JUPITER-Xpert Back to Basics Series Synthesizer Tutorial
JUPITER-X/Xm Single Tone Preset, Dual, and Arp Demonstration
JUPITER-X / Xm Tutorial - Performance Tips & Tricks for Live + I-Arp Synthwave
UPDATE: JUPITER-Xm Step Edit Sequencer Tutorial: Chords
Roland Cloud ZEN Expansions and Sound Packs for JUPITER-X/Xm : Installation
JUPITER-Xm Tutorial : Working with ZEN-Core Partials (Stupid ZEN Tricks 1)
JUPITER-Xm ZEN-Core Demo - SH-5 and SH-7 Patch Tone
JUPITER-X | Xm : Split with Bass Arpeggio Tutorial (Updated)
JUPITER 1.30 Update - 5 Big Things | Special Preview for JUPITER-X and Xm from JUPITER-Xpert
JUPITER-X/Xm Tutorial: Step Edit Using Hold Pedal
Night Stalkers - #RolandScarySounds​ with JUPITER-Xm
Roland JUPITER-Xm Custom Drums experiment
JUPITER-Xm Hidden Parameters - Roland Boutique A-01 SysEx Control

Additional details on each:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland Introduces $699.99 VERSELAB MV-1 Production Studio

Make a Song in Under 10 Minutes with the Roland VERSELAB MV-1

"Roland, the creator of the TR-808, brings you the VERSELAB MV-1, an all-in-one song production studio to help you capture, refine, and finish your ideas from start to end. The fluid, hands-on workflow simplifies song creation with modern vocal recording and effects, intuitive song-writing tools, a curated ZEN-Core sound library with over 3000 sounds, on-board mixing and mastering, and so much more. VERSELAB has everything you need to make radio-ready tracks without all the complications, so you can focus on what matters most—your music.

In this video, Blackillac’s Zeale walks you through VERSELAB’s workflow, quickly creating a beat, arranging a song, recording vocals, and mixing it down. Follow along with the timestamped chapters below.

00:00 – Introducing VERSELAB MV-1
00:40 – Workflow
01:12 – Tracks
01:44 – Creating the Beat
03:16 – Bass, Melodies, and Chords
04:17 – Song Sections
05:42 – Song Mode
06:02 – Vocals
06:25 – Recording Vocal Takes
08:17 – Mixing and Mastering
08:42 – Mix Down

If you’re a VERSELAB owner, make sure to update to the latest firmware to enjoy all the latest features, and register your VERSELAB at Roland.com/backstage to receive an invite to the Roland Cloud Academy, a real-time online learning platform to help you master your instrument."

Roland Corporation · VERSELAB MV-1 Demo Songs

"VERSELAB uses our most advanced sound engine—the ZEN-Core Synthesis System. It’s at the heart of our professional synthesizers and ensures top-notch sound quality. With Roland Cloud, you can expand the onboard library with thousands of new tones, including genre-specific Sound Packs to keep your music fresh.

Finish complete songs with inspiring hands-on workflow

Record vocals with modern effects like Auto-Pitch, Harmonizer, and Doubler

Curated collection of over 3000 sounds for modern styles from the makers of the TR-808

4x4 pads and TR-REC step sequencer for drums, basslines, and melodic parts

Songwriting tools and generators get you started and keep you flowing

Interface with your smartphone, tablet, or computer for easy file transfer

Plug-and-play integration with Roland Zenbeats app expands your production capabilities*

High-quality mixing and mastering effects for pro results

Make music on the move with power via a mobile battery or USB

Built-in mic and XLR mic input with phantom power

Stereo ¼-inch I/O, dual headphones jacks, and MIDI I/O"

And the press release:

Roland Unveils VERSELAB MV-1 Song Production Studio

All-in-One Composition Tool with Inspiring Workflow, Vocal Recording, Sequencing, ZEN-Core Sounds, and More

Los Angeles, CA, January 11, 2021 — Roland introduces VERSELAB MV-1 Song Production Studio, an innovative new composition tool for modern music creators. Offering an all-in-one design for go-everywhere production, VERSELAB allows composers to create professional multi-track songs with vocal recording, 16 velocity-sensitive pads, and Roland’s famous 16-step TR-REC rhythm sequencer. VERSELAB’s onboard ZEN-Core sound engine provides a vast library of premium instrument and rhythm sounds to choose from, while future integration with Roland’s Zenbeats music creation app will allow users to enhance their workflow with a computer or mobile device.
VERSELAB gives vocalists and beatmakers everything they need to develop songs anywhere. With templates, pattern generators, and a guided workflow that smoothly moves through the process of making tracks, VERSELAB eliminates option paralysis and lets creators focus on what matters most—finishing their music.

Users can easily record vocals via the built-in mic or an external XLR mic and add an array of contemporary effects, from auto-pitch to harmonizers. The powerful ZEN-Core engine delivers a history of classic Roland instruments and a wide range of curated sounds for quick-fire inspiration. The TR-REC sequencer and 4x4 pads provide a direct, hands-on interface that’s perfect for building drum tracks, bass lines, and melodic parts as fast as the ideas come.

VERSELAB also includes an arsenal of pro mixing and mastering effects to create polished tracks ready for distribution. Plug-and-play integration with Roland’s popular Zenbeats app will be coming soon, providing even more production options by interfacing with a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Availability & Pricing
The VERSELAB MV-1 Song Production Studio will be available in January 2021 for $699.99.

Learn more about the VERSELAB MV-1 at Roland.com.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Synth Classics JUNO | Fresh Sounds

Roland Zenbeats

"Now available in Zenbeats 2.0: https://www.roland.com/us/products/rc...

Revisit the hallmark sounds of 80s synthesis with Synth Classics-JUNO. With gut-punching low-end, shimmering pads and legendary string sounds, these 16 tones for the ZC1 synthesizer span the essential sonic profile of the revered Roland JUNO series."

Roland MC-101 & MC-707 GROOVEBOX v1.60 Update: Arpeggiator, Random Tone Generator and more

RolandChannel

"With the new Version 1.60 update, the MC-101 and MC-707 GROOVEBOXES continue to evolve with inspiring features for music creation and live performance:
• Powerful new arpeggiator livens up your productions with tasty melodic lines and real-time control over motif, rhythmic variation, octave, and hold on/off
• Random Tone Generator sparks fresh ideas with multiple algorithmic options that create interesting new tones on the fly
• USB generic driver mode lets you connect your MC GROOVEBOX directly to a smartphone or tablet, great for producing with Zenbeats or your favorite DAW
• Expanded ZEN-Core compatibility lets you import Sound Pack drum kits in addition to instrument tones

In this video, Peter Brown walks you through the new MC GROOVEBOX features of Version 1.60 below:
00:00 Overview
00:28 Arpeggiator
01:58 Random Tone Generator
03:50 USB Class Compliant/Generic Driver
04:50 Sound Pack Kit Import

Other updates:
• Direct USB Mixout
• Scatter functions - MIDI Note message enabled
• Compressor – gain meter and updated parameters added
• Sub-step on Tone track
• Note Tie on Drum Track
• Sound Knob (MC-707 only)"

Introducing Zenbeats 2.0

Roland Zenbeats

"It has been one year since we launched Roland Zenbeats and to celebrate, we are excited to announce a FREE Zenbeats 2.0 update featuring the new ZC1 ZEN-Core Synthesizer. Music-making has never been easier with touch-friendly beatmaking, loop-based arranging, Bluetooth MIDI support, seamless export functionality, and thousands of presets to choose from wherever you are.

Download Zenbeats 2.0 today!
https://www.roland.com/us/products/ze...

Zenbeats 2.0 includes many feature and workflow enhancements for free-flowing music production. The spotlight addition is ZC1, Roland’s first mobile-ready synth powered by the advanced ZEN-Core Synthesis System. Zenbeats Ultimate Unlock V2 unleashes the full power of ZC1 with over 800 presets and 90 built-in MFX.

Everyone from beginners to serious beatmakers and electronic musicians can create, share, and collaborate using Roland Zenbeats 2.0. The app offers intuitive loop-based track creation, and a drum machine designed around the classic Roland “TR-REC” step sequencer in legendary drum machines like the TR-808 and TR-909. Deep touch surface support allows users to intuitively control instruments and mixing functions, and it’s easy to transfer projects and beats between phone, tablet, and desktop platforms.

With Zenbeats 2.0, the latest version of Roland’s popular music creation app for iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows comes to the Roland Cloud platform. Ultimate Unlock V2 access for Zenbeats is provided at all membership levels, offering 7 GB of presets, loops, and sounds. Like the original release of Zenbeats, the entry-level version of Zenbeats 2.0 remains available as a free app outside of Roland Cloud membership, with access to two paid upgrade levels, including Ultimate Unlock.

Do you have Roland Zenbeats 2.0 and need customer support? Let us help at: https://www.roland.com/backstage/#/ze..."

Roland Zenbeats Mixtape Vol. 4 - Pack Preview

Roland Zenbeats

"Out Now: Mixtape Vol. 4 - Free "808" pack! Now available in the Roland Zenbeats Store.

Embrace TR-808 inspired sounds with Zenbeats. Discover a new 808 kit, awesome patterns, SampleVerse sub bass presets, and 70 audio loops (royalty free). Try these 808 sounds to add some extra BOOM to your compositions!

Try Zenbeats for free today at: https://www.roland.com/us/products/ze..."

Roland FREE PACK - Mixtape Vol. 4 "808" has arrived!

Roland Zenbeats

"This FREE “808” PACK goes BOOM! 🤯 Kick some serious beats with sounds from the legendary Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer. Mixtape Vol. 4 includes 70 exclusive Zenbeats loops, 3 SampleVerse pitched presets, 1 full kit, and 5 patterns that will charge your beats with the power of the world’s most famous drum machine. Available for a limited time only!
https://www.roland.com/us/products/ze..."

Roland Vintage TR - Loops Preview

Roland Zenbeats

"Out Now: Vintage TR - New TR-808 inspired Drum Loops!
Now available in the Roland Zenbeats Store.

Spark up new song ideas with some dope drum loops in Zenbeats. Each high quality audio loop is royalty free. Set your BPM and drag and drop drums in with Vintage TR."

Roland Celebrates 40th Anniversary of Legendary TR-808 Drum Machine on 808 Day with New Content

via Roland

New Video, Interviews, Stories, and More Highlight How the 808 Has Evolved and Transformed Music, Plus Test Drive the TR-808 Plug-In on Roland Cloud for Free Through August 31

Los Angeles, CA, August 8, 2020 — Roland today honors the celebration of 808 Day, the global music community’s annual salute to the most influential drum machine of all time, the TR-808, by publishing a series of cross-platform content that delves into the way the 808 has evolved and transformed music over the past forty years, and as GRAMMY-winning producer Terry Lewis likes to say, “put the boom in music.”

Introduced 40 years ago, the Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer was one of the first affordable and widely available programmable drum machines to hit the market. Though only in production for approximately three years, its signature kick and snare—along with many other unique sounds—became tonal anchors for the hip hop and techno movements from the mid-’80s onward. Commonly just called “the 808,” the instrument has been embraced by artists and producers of many genres. Its sound is heard on thousands of dance tracks and hit records, and it is directly referenced in the lyrics of numerous songs over the last few decades.

In honor of the TR-808’s 40th anniversary this year, Roland is offering fans a never-before-seen look at the legendary instrument through an exclusive new series of curated #808day content, including a Q&A with lead TR-808 engineer Tadao Kikumoto, interviews with legendary producers who helped make the 808 so influential, a look at classic 808-powered tracks, and more, as well as announcing a new Roland apparel collaboration.

“BUILDING THE BEAT: INSIDE LEGENDARY TR-808 TRACKS” MINI-DOCUMENTARY
To celebrate the TR-808’s 40th anniversary, Roland spoke to some of the most prolific producers and artists and gave them the impossible task of picking a song from their discography that had the most impressionable use of the TR-808 and its timeless sounds. Viewers will take a trip down memory lane, hopping between decades, genres, songs, and artists, as they honor the 808, including: Arthur Baker, Cozmo D, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Carl Craig, A Guy Called Gerald, and Jermaine Dupri.

THOUGHTS FROM THE CREATOR
Forty years after the original TR-808 was launched, Chief Engineer Tadao Kikumoto sits down for an exclusive interview to look back on his most famous creation, and share an update on his current projects, including a return to the 808 concept.

TEST DRIVE TR-808 VIRTUAL INSTRUMENT ON ROLAND CLOUD IN AUGUST
The Roland TR-808 is available as part of the Roland Cloud suite of plug-in instruments that work directly within a DAW. Beginning August 8, Roland is offering a free test drive of the TR-808 virtual instrument through August 31. The new “TR-808 Dark Techno Raw Loops” and “Techno 808" patch collections are also offered. Simply sign up for a free Roland Account and start using the most popular drum machine of all time.

40 YEARS OF 808 PLAYLIST
The “808 40-Year Playlist” on Spotify celebrates 40 years of great music, made with a little help from the TR-808.

ZENBEATS 808 SOUND PACKS
Zenbeats is adding two new in-app sound packs to celebrate 40 years of the Roland TR-808. Vintage TR loop pack includes 100+ audio loops that will enhance tracks with the legendary sounds of the 808. Mixtape Vol. 4 "808" is a free pack that includes 70 audio loops, three Sample Verse pitched presets, one full 808 kit, and five patterns, available for a limited time. Roland Zenbeats is a music creation app designed to keep creators in an effortless artistic flow.

PLEASURES + ROLAND: 808 40TH ANNIVERSARY COLLABORATION
Los Angeles-based streetwear brand PLEASURES and Roland have worked together to create a capsule collection celebrating the 40th anniversary of the 808. The limited run collection is set to release later this month and will feature five unique pieces of apparel that highlight the functions and beautiful design of Roland’s iconic beat making machine.

THE “SOUND BEHIND THE SONG” 808 SERIES
Roland’s new editorial platform, Roland Articles, takes a behind-the-scenes look at some classic tracks that were made with the help of the TR-808, including “Love Lockdown” by Kanye West, “Doin’ It Right” by Daft Punk”, “Drunk in Love” by Beyoncé, and “Voodoo Ray” by A Guy Called Gerald.

To learn more about the TR-808 and its 40th anniversary, please visit Roland’s TR-808 story page and celebrate by joining the #808day conversation online."

Vintage TR | Fresh Sounds

Roland Zenbeats

"Celebrate 40 years of the Roland TR-808 with the Vintage TR Loop Pack! Whether it's classic 808 BOOM, or processed snap and sizzle, these 100+ loops will infuse your tracks with the legendary sounds of the drum machine that started a revolution. Now available in the Zenbeats store. https://www.roland.com/us/products/ze..."