Tag Archives: Roland

Roland Introduces Control Support Between The V-80HD Direct Streaming Video Switcher And Yamaha DM3 Digital Mixing Console



Roland Professional AV (InfoCom 2025, Exhibit Hall Level 2, Booth 3261) announces integration between the V-80HD Direct Streaming Video Switcher and Yamaha DM3 Mixing Console. With the free V-80HD Version 1.1 software update, V-80HD users can control various DM3 functions via a simple network cable connection. 

Roland’s V-80HD is a compact and powerful video switcher with an all-in-one design and flexible I/O features that support  3G-SDI, HDMI, USB 3.0, and LAN (RTMP/SRT) connections. The Yamaha DM3 is a next-generation digital audio mixer used by many professionals. It offers superb sound quality, fast setup, easy operation, and deep features for the sound, streaming, and music production — a combination unmatched with any other mixing console of its size.

The V-80HD Version 1.1 update provides control integration between these two products, enabling more efficient operation by a small team or a single user. DM3 scene memories, audio faders, and mute controls can be operated from the V-80HD, streamlining video and audio operations. Configuration is easy, requiring only IP address settings on each device. No DM3 firmware update is needed for this functionality. 

“We are thrilled to announce the collaboration with Yamaha,” said Kohel Hattiri, General Manager, Roland Live Production Business Department. “This control integration with the popular V-80HD and highly valued DM3 will help elevate production quality and operator efficiency.”

“We are pleased to announce this new collaboration with Roland, which significantly enhances the workflow for the live and streamed video, where high-quality sound and video images are equally important,” says Thomas Hemery, Senior General Manager of Yamaha’s Professional Solutions Division.  “The integration between the DM3 series and the V-80HD video switcher delivers efficient, straightforward operation for one operator, making superior productions very accessible.”


Roland Announces Boss Effects Pedals Plug-In



Roland announces the BOSS Effect Pedals plug-in, the lates classic software effect available on Roland Cloud. Since debuting in 1977, the colorful BOSS compact pedal line-up has been loved by generations of musicians. The BOSS Effects Pedals plug-in brings the authentic BOSS compact pedal experience to computer music production for the first time, delivering premium processing for guitar, bass, keyboard, vocals, and beyond.

BOSS, Roland’s guitar products division, is well known for its expansive lineup of compact pedals. They’re used by everyone from beginners to professionals, and numerous legends ha relied on various models for their signature sounds and the creation of the greatest recordings of all time. To date, 140 unique BOSS compact pedals have been produced, well over 19 million units have been sold, and many have remained in continuous production for decades.

The BOSS Effects Pedals plug-in can be loaded with one effect at a time from an onboard library. Each delivers the genuine sound and response of the pedal it’s based on, faithfully recreated by the same company that developed the original designs. The friendly interface mirrors the simple operation of the hardware, providing fast access to great tones. Extended features are also available, including input and output controls for dialing in levels and tempo sync for time-based effects.

The initial launch of the BOSS Effects Pedals plug-in features eight of the most famous BOSS pedals: The OD-1 OverDrive, PH-1 Phaser, SP-1 Spectrum, SG-1 Slow Gear, CS-1 Compression Sustainer, TW-1 T Wah, TW-1T Wah, SD-1 SUPER Overdrive, and DS-1 Distortion. Over time the core library will be populated with an ever-expanding selection of models derived from the historic hardware lineup.

The BOSS Effects Pedals plug-in is available with Roland Cloud Ultimate membership, which new users can try for free with a 30-day all-access trial. Signing up for a free Roland Account provides access to a function-limited demo version for evaluating the plug-in without signing up for membership.

Roland Cloud is also home to a universe of creative tools for computer-based music production, including JC-120 Jazz Chorus, and RE-201 Space Echo plug-ins. Software versions of vintage Roland instruments, ZENEOLOGY, Sound Packs, Wave Expansions, GALAXIAS, Zenbeats, and much more.

The BOSS Effects Pedal plug-in is now available in the U.S. with the Roland Cloud Ultimate membership, which users can try for free with a 30-day all-access trial.


Roland Expands Its Presence In India With The Opening OF Two New Roland Stores



Roland Corporation, a world leader in professional music equipment, announces the successful grand openings of two Roland Stores in India, in Mumbai and Delhi. Addressing a long-standing demand for premium musical instruments in the region, these stores aim to invigorate the local music scene by providing musicians with direct access to Roland’s acclaimed range of products, including state-of-the-art instruments, synthesizers, amplifiers, and audio technology.

The grand openings of the Roland Stores in Mumbai and Delhi were marked by dynamic celebrations last week that brought the vibrant music scene to life. Attendees immersed themselves in a creative atmosphere, with live performances by popular artists such as Darshan Doshi, Zubin Balaporia, and appearances by influential music figures Mayur Jamari, Rajeev Bhalla and Avanti Nagral. 

The interactive environment of these new spaces inspired musicians and enthusiasts alike, setting the stage for Roland’s vision of fostering creativity and connection in India’s music community.

The Roland Store concept is a pioneering “Store-in-Store” (SIS) model designed to bring Roland’s iconic products — such as pianos, drums, guitars and pedals — directly to consumers in an interactive environment. With this initiative, Roland aims to make a strong impact on India’s vibrant home music scene, particularly in markets where access to premium instruments and equipment has been limited. 

The new locations showcase a comprehensive selection of Roland and BOSS products, creating an immersive environment for hobbyists and professionals alike. Customers can try out digital pianos like the FP-30X, electronic drum kits such as the TD-07 and TD-17, and an array of BOSS pedals all set up and ready for hands-on demonstrations.

Knowledgable and highly trained staff will be on-site to offer personalized advice and ensure customers make informed decisions suited to their musical needs. These spaces are designed to inspire creativity and make high-quality musical instruments more accessible to musicians of all skill levels.

The Roland Store concept is a pioneering “Store-in-Store” (SIS) model designed to bring Roland’s iconic products — such as pianos, drums, guitars and pedals — directly to consumers in an interactive environment. With this initiative, Roland aims to make a strong impact on India’s vibrant home music scene, particularly in markets where access to premium instruments and equipment has been limited. 

The new locations showcase a comprehensive selection of Roland and BOSS products, creating an immersive environment for hobbyists and professionals alike. Customers can try out digital pianos like the FP-30X, electronic drum kits such as the TD-07 and TD-17, and an array of BOSS pedals all set up and ready for hands-on demonstrations.

Knowledgable and highly trained staff will be on-site to offer personalized advice and ensure customers make informed decisions suited to their musical needs. These spaces are designed to inspire creativity and make high-quality musical instruments more accessible to musicians of all skill levels.


Roland Announces V-Drums Quiet Design



Roland announces V-Drums Quiet Design, an all-new addition to the company’s award-winning V-Drums product lineup. V-Drums Quiet Design is a revolutionary development in home drumming, delivering the lowest playing noise in the history of electronic drums. 

Born of decades of Roland testing and development, the V-Drums Quiet Design pads, stand, and pedal bases work together to keep the in-home playing sounds and vibration transfer in check without sacrificing feel and response. The VQD 106 kit comes ready to play with the TD-07 module, while the VQD106PADS kit allows users to add the V-Drums module of their choice. V-Drums Quiet Design components are also available separately for pad expansion and upgrading other V-Drums kits.

Roland V-Drums are already some of the quietist electronic drums available, thanks to years of research and development, precision engineering, and the ability to monitor with headphones. Yet even standard V-Drums can sometimes be too loud to enjoy. The physical noise of striking pads can be bothersome for others, and pedals transfer low-end thumps and vibrations that resonate through the structure to create noise in other rooms.

Purposely engineered for maximum noise reduction, V-Drums Quiet Design allows drummers to play without restraint at any time, day or night. Newly developed pads and hardware dramatically lower the in-room volume, while sound-absorbing materials isolate drumming energy to prevent its escape into adjoining spaces.

Detailed testing in special facilities has revealed that V-Drums Quiet Design kits reduce noice by an astonishing 75 percent compared with V-Drums. The kick and hi-hat are incredibly smooth and quiet, and stick hits on the pads produce in-room sound levels similar to an average conversation.

Despite all their advanced noise-reducing features, the V-Drums Quiet Design snare and toms deliver the great stick feel and natural rebound that V-Drums pads are famous for. The PDQ-8S snare and three PDQ-8 tom pads are built with a noise-absorbing honeycomb rubber insert covered with a mesh head. Specially placed vents on the underside of the playing surface allow air pressure to dissipate, further reducing noise. The PDQ-8S snare provides independent head and rim triggering, plus a soft rubber covering on the rim for quiet rimshots.

Each V-Drums Quiet Design kit includes three versatile CYQ-12 cymbal pads built with honeycomb rubber, mesh covering, and venting like the snare and tom pads. In the crash and ride positions, the CYQ-12 provides independent bow and edge triggers, natural swinging motion, and support for cymbal chokes. In the hi-hat position, the pad is paired with the FD-9 control pedal for detailed response and ultra-quiet operation.

The KDQ-8 kick pad delivers the satisfying “thud” every drummer wants — while keeping the sound confined in the headphones. The eight-inch playing surface supports single and double kick pedals and features a dense triple-layer cushion covered in a doubly-ply mesh material. This is housed in a floating frame to reduce vibration and a noise transfer. Four rubber feet provide stability and further isolation, while the included KDB-Q quiet beater has a special round head that minimizes contact noise.

An innovative stand and two pedal bases complete the V-Drums Quiet Design experience, keeping the remaining clicks, thumps and vibrations from transferring to the floor and other rooms. Special hemispheric rubber feet on the stand isolate pad noise, while the NEQ-K and NEQ-H bases for kick and hi-hat pedals also have special rubber foot designs to keep foot stomps contained.

The TD-07 module included with the VQD106 kit features high-quality acoustic and electronic drum sounds captured in pro studios and powered by advanced V-Drums technology. Users can personalize kits by swapping drums, adjusting tunings, adding dampening, and using EQ. 

Built-in Bluetooth supports audio streaming from a mobile device for jamming and following video lessens. USB connectivity is also available to record audio and MIDI in a DAW, trigger computer-based instruments, and integrate with Melodics coaching software for V-Drums.


Roland Announces V-80HD Direct Streaming Video Switcher and Roland Graphics Presenter Software



Roland announces multiple additions to its leading lineup of professional A/V products The V-80HD Direct Streaming Video Switcher is a compact hybrid even switcher with diverse video connectivity, advanced automation features, and SRT support. 

The companion Roland Graphics Presenter software provides an easy-to-use solution for creating professional titles and motion graphics for live productions with the V-80HD. Additional Roland video switcher models will receive Roland Graphics Presenter and SRT support with free system updates coming later in 2024.

V-80HD Direct Streaming Video Switcher

The versatile V-80HD covers comprehensive video production needs for in-person events, live-streaming, and studio productions in a compact device that’s easy to carry and set up. The flexible I/O features eight inputs for 3G. SDI, HDMI, and SRT video sources and seven outputs that support 3G SDI, HDMI, USB 3.0, and LAN (RTMP/SRT) connections. 

The V-80-HD also provides integrated control for PTZ cameras from various manufacturers, plus remote operation and video monitoring via a dedicated iPad app and computer control software for macOS and Windows.

The V-80HD comes loaded with helpful tools to streamline production workflows. Scene memory, macro, and sequencing functions simplify operation, allowing users to pre-program complicated actions and fire them off with simple commands. Professional audio features are also integrated, including multi-channel mixing, high-quality effect processing, flexible and aux routing options.

The V-80HD support SRT (Secure Reliable Transport), an open-source standard for AVoIP (Audio and Visual over Internet Protocol) created by Haivision. SRT realizes secure audio and video transmission over IP networks and provides future-proof connectivity within installed system configurations.

Roland Graphics Presenter

The new Roland Graphics Presenter software for Windows allows users to the V-80HD and other Roland switchers to easily create stunning titles and graphics, eliminating the need for expensive third-party graphic presentation solutions. The setup is quick and straightforward, requiring just a single HDMI connection to send fill and key signals from the computer to the switcher.

Roland Graphics Presenter features an intuitive workflow with a wide selection of ready-to-edit templates, including animated title text, sports scores, motion graphics, and more. The software and templates are available free of charge, and additional content will be periodically provided for download on Roland Cloud.

Upcoming System Updates for Roland Switchers

Free system updates will be released for several Roland video switchers later in 2024. Roland Graphic Presenter support will be added to V-8HD, V-160HD, VR-6HD, and VR-120HD models, and SRT support will be aded to the SR-20HD, VR-6HD, and VR-120HD models.

For more information, visit Roland.com.


Roland Introduces LX Digital Pianos



Roland introduces the LX-9, LX-6, and LX-5, three new models in the company’s long-running LX series of premium digital pianos. Each model features a classic upright look, authentic grand sound and playability, and a streamlined design that radiates sophistication in any setting. LX pianos offer a harmonious balance of elegance and convenience, supported by a range of powerful digital features that ignite passions for learning and daily musical enjoyment,

The LX series leverages advanced technologies and decades of development to deliver a piano experience like no other. Roland’s Piano Reality Modeling approach — first introduced with the GP grand piano series — recreates the complex tone-generation process of an acoustic piano at every level, putting beautifully rich sound, inspiring response, and limitless expression under the player’s fingers.

Each LX model features an 88-note hammer action keyboard with escapement and hybrid wood/molded key construction. The LX-9 and LX-6 offer the same extended key length as an acoustic grand, allowing for the natural hand position and precise articulation that advanced players require during demanding technical passages. The flagship LX-9 also integrates haptic technology into the keyboard, which replicates the subtle physical vibrations felt when playing an acoustic grand piano.

The keyboard and pedals on the LX series work in harmony with the sound engine to deliver an immersive playing experience. Pioneering keyboard sensing advancements and intelligent algorithms accelerate the sensing speed as needed, giving the player access to an unlimited range of tonal colors. Precision-crafted damper, soft, and sostenuto pedals support all traditional techniques, and damper noise and other realistic acoustic elements are replicated by the pedal/modeling sound engine connection.

Each LX model includes a custom multi-channel sound system designed for its unique cabinet. Speakers are carefully positioned to accurately reproduce the rich sound projection characteristics of an acoustic piano, including string and cabinet resonances, subtle hammer noise, and more. Whether playing through the speakers of quietly with headphones, Roland’s Piano Reality Ambience lets the user instantly place the piano sound in a variety of virtual environments, from intimate study spaces to immersive concert halls.

LX pianos offer a multitude of modern features to support learning and musical enjoyment. Users can access deeper settings, play along with streamed music, find digital scores, and more when paired with the Roland Piano App and other music apps via Bluetooth. There’s also a Twin Piano mode for same-range duets, an onboard recorder to evaluate progress, and a metronome to hone timing skills.

Available in a range of finish options, LX pianos look at home in every environment. Each model ships in two boxes, allowing for easy installation in any space. Using the powerful Piano AR tool on the Roland website, a buyer can scan a room with their smartphone and see a visual 3D representation of how the different Roland piano models will appear in their environment.

LX-9: The new gold standard in modern piano design. With refined curves and elegant lines, this premium instrument makes a bold statement in any room. Available in polished ebony, polished white, and charcoal black finishes.

LX-6: The mid-level LX model offers elegant looks and the same stunning sounds as LX-9 in a smaller design with streamlined features. Available in polished ebony, charcoal black, and dark rosewood finishes.

LX-5: With it’s space-saving design and flagship-level sounds, the LX-5 is an approachable upright piano that provides a solid foundation for skills to flourish. Available in polished ebony, charcoal black, dark rosewood, and light oak finishes.


Roland SPD-SX Pro Earns GOOD DESIGN AWARD 2023 Acolades



Roland, a leading manufacturer of electronic musical instruments and professional video products, announced that the SPD-SX PRO sampling pad has won a GOOD DESIGN AWARD 2023, an award managed by the Japan Institute of Design Promotion.

The SPD-SX PRO was designed to meet the advanced demands of professional drummers on stage. Featuring nine durable pads with Roland’s latest sensing technology for unparalleled responsiveness and accuracy, customizable trigger LEDs for visibility, increased audio outputs and trigger inputs for seamless integration, massive onboard memory, The SPD-SX PRO helps drummers reproduce intricately crafted music. The SPD-SX PRO sets a new standard for stage drummers and all types of creative performers.

“The compact body is packed with performance that will convince even professional drummers. The intuitive user interface and customizable visibility reflect the feedback from the field. The customizability of the system, which utilizes not only auditory but also visual perception, was highly evaluated,” said the jury members.

For more information, visit Roland.com. https://www.roland.com/

About the GOOD DESIGN AWARD

The GOOD DESIGN AWARD has been the sole comprehensive design evaluation and commendation system in Japan since 1957. Many companies and designers from both inside and outside Japan participate in the activity to enhance the industry or the quality of life through design. “G Mark,” the symbol of the award, has been recognized widely as a mark of representing good design. For more information, visit G-mark.org.

About Roland Corporation

For 50 years, Roland’s innovative electronic musical instruments and multimedia products have fueled inspiration in artists and creators around the world. Embraced by hobbyists and professionals alike, the company’s trendsetting gear spans multiple categories from pianos, synthesizers, guitar products, and electronic percussion to DJ controllers, audio/video solutions, livestreaming products, and more. As technology evolves, Roland continues to lead the way for gigging musicians producers, and beat makers, providing modem software-based solutions for seamless creative workflows between hardware products, computers, and mobile devices.


Roland Introduces The S-1 Tweak Synth



Roland introduces the S-1 Tweak Synth, and latest addition to the AIRA Compact family of pocket-sized instruments for modern music creators, which also includes the T-8 Beat Machine, J-6 Chord Synthesizer, and E-4 Voice Tweaker. Inspired by the legendary Roland SH-101 from the 1980s, the S-1 is a potent micro polysynth with futuristic wave manipulation, onboard sequencing, and a range of unique performance features. With its inspiring tactile controls and intuitive workflow, this powerful instrument provides a fund and satisfying creative experience for beginners and serious synth advertisers alike.

The S-1 merges retro spirit and advanced capabilities in an ultra-compact package ready to travel anywhere. The latest generation of Roland’s Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology delivers the authentic tone and response of the SH-101, a classic monophonic synth embraced for its characterful sound and simple, direct-access panel. Extending the original’s design four-vice polyphony and a slate of innovative features for next-level music creation, the S-1 makes it easy for musicians at any level to explore the power of synthesis through a friendly, uncomplicated interface.

Filled with hands-on controls, the S-1 is a sound design and performance powerhouse in miniature. Users can create lavish tones with oscillator, envelope, filter, and LFO sections, adjust effects with dedicated knobs, and dive into deeper design tools with quick combo button presses. The bottom section of the panel features 26 multi-function pads, providing access to a keyboard with a two-plus octave range, a step sequencer interface, and a wealth of creative options to spark fresh ideas.

The S-1 is primed to push classic SH tones into new dimensions. Users can build from square, saw, sub, and noise oscillators or craft custom wave shapes on the step pads using the powerful OSC Draw function. OSC Chop unlocks even more harmonic potential with the ability to cut waveforms into sections for a labyrinth of metallic timbres. It’s also possible to use the noise oscillator as an independent riser to add sweeps and pulsing sound effects.

With its 64-step sequencer and 64 pattern, the S-1 is made for the on-the-spot music capture and song development. Users can record live with the onboard keyboard or switch to step mode for detailed not entry and editing. Motion recording, probability settings, sub steps, and other features like velocity, shuffle, and portamento are also available to bring sounds to life.

The S-1 include a wide selection of classic Roland effects to enhance sounds. Users can add shimmering dimension with lush choruses derived from the iconic JUNO and JX-3P synths, introduce spaciousness and moment with manual and tempo-synced delays, and envelop sounds with studio-grade reverb effects and a variety of adjustable parameters.

About the AIRA Compact Series

The growing lineup of AIRA Compact instruments lets anyone jam, perform, and develop ideas on the go with friendly controls, inspiring sounds, and loads of intuitive music tools. Users can realize complete compositions with a single unit expand their possibilities by connecting and synchronizing with other AIRA Compact models. From one master unit, multiple AIRA Compacts can be mixed with monitored with headphones or an external speaker system. It’s also possible to interface with computer DAWS, mobile music apps, and hardware instruments via USB-C or MIDI.


Roland Introduces VHM-D1 V-Drums Headphones



Roland introduces the VMH-D1 V-Drums Headphones, a complete personal monitoring solution purpose-built for the electronic drumming experience. Co-developed by Roland and V-MODA, these unique headphones deliver premium drumming experience.

Co-developed by Roland and V-MODA, these unique headphones deliver premium sound that realizes the full sonic potential of V-Drums or any other e-kit. Comfortable to wear and outfitted with smart practical details, the VMH-D1 is an essential tool that no electronic drummer should be without.

The VMH-D1 is the first collaboration between the Roland V-Drums team and V-MODA, the leading name in headphones for DJs and electronic musicians. Working closely through many development stages, they crafted a special design that couples custom 50 mm drivers with select materials and new mounting methods to accurately translate the aggressive transients, wide frequency range, and rich overtones of every electronic drum set.

The VMH-D1 provides long-wearing comfort with long-wearing comfort with large memory foam ear pads and a cushioned headband for extended playing sessions. Along with their comfortable fit, the earpads offer excellent isolation from acoustic pad noise and outside distractions. Soft and attractive, the synthetic leather covering offers moisture-wicking properties to reduce slippage and keep the phones from moving when working up a sweat.

The VMH-D1 comes with an extra-long 3m/10 ft. cable that provides plenty of length for routing it out of the way while playing, along with a restraint for securing the cable behind the head and onto the floor behind the drum throne. A hanger is also included, which can be attached to a drum or cymbal stand to stow the headphones when not in use. A prominent red “R” on the right earcup makes it easy for the player to see the correct orientation when putting on the phones.

Though tuned for drums, the full-range VMH-D1 headphones are great for music listening too. Drummers can enjoy high-fidelity sound while jamming with favorite songs, playing with backing tracks, and recording with music production software. There’s also a shorter 1.5 m/5 ft. cable for casual listening away from the drums, plus a carrying pouch to keep the VMH-D1 protected while on the move.


Roland Showcases 50th Anniversary Concept Piano During CES 2023



Roland, a world-leading innovator of electronic musical instruments and multimedia products, showcased its 50th Anniversary Concept Model Piano during CES 2023.

For decades, Roland has pursued the most promising electronic technologies to reinvent the acoustic piano playing experience and to honor the instrument’s beautiful sounds and history. Since the release of Japan’s first electronic pianos, the EP-10 and EP-20, in 1973, Roland has continuously worked to transform the space with its long-time commitment to advancing the form and function of this timeless instrument.

Last evidenced by Roland’s futuristic concept, the GPX-F1 Facet Grand Piano, which was unveiled at CES in 2020, the brand is now pushing the boundaries even further in celebration of its 50th year. With unique innovations and structural changes, Roland’s 50th Anniversary Concept Piano paves the way for instruments of the future.

Offering improved sound quality, advanced connectivity, and stunning finishes, this 50th anniversary piano, equipped with Roland’s latest sound system and tones alongside Roland’s most legendary piano sounds and expression, also features a keyboard touch more natural and responsive than ever before. The concept piano’s one-piece molded wooden body, designed in collaboration with Japanese furniture maker Karimoku, was inspired by the fusion of the past and future, while its exterior, comprised of Japanese oak wood, provides deep piano tones from its speakers.

More than a beautiful design, the 50th anniversary piano aims to fill a gap in the industry. In the age of digital pianos, many find rich sound quality is sacrificed for innovation. With that, Roland’s concept piano offers a 360-degree speaker system, which is able to send sound in any direction through its 14 adjustable speakers placed strategically throughout.

The 50th anniversary piano offers advanced connectivity through the operation of these drones, as well as through its touch-panel table, which is embedded within the lid, supporting video conferencing, piano lessons and streaming tutorials, available throughRoland Cloud.

While the Roland 50th Anniversary Concept Piano is not for sale, CES attendees can receive an exclusive in-person look at Roland’s exhibit at CES in Las Vegas, Nevada, on January 5-8, 2023, at LVCC, Central Hall 15301.