Roland introduces featuring the next-generation TD50X sound module and digital pad configurations that include the groundbreaking new VH-14D digital hi-hat. The TD-50KV2 kit delivers the ultimate V-Drums experience with cage pads throughout, including a stage-ready, full-size kick drum.

The TD-50KV2 offers a more streamlined configuration with compact top and kick pads, making it a great choice for home playing, small stages, and anywhere that space is tight. The VAD 706 is the new top-of-the-line kit in the V-Drums Acoustic Design series, combining Roland’s best V-Drums technologies with the look and detail of premium-grade acoustic drums. Four elegant finish options are available for the full-size wood shells in the VAD706, including Gloss Natural, Gloss Cherry, Gloss Ebony, and Pearl White.

The TD-50X sound module at the heart of the TD-50KV2, TD-50K2, and VAD706 kits provide the most acoustic-like experience available in electronic drumming. Prismatic Sound Modeling technology makes drums come to life like no other system can, infusing multi-layer samples recorded in world class studios with sophisticated behavior modeling techniques refined over 20-plus years.

An unlimited array of sonic colors and rich overtones are produced with every stick hit, just like acoustic drums and cymbals. The player can feel the sound changing in relation to their expression, creating that magical, interactive bond that fully immerses them in the emotion of the moment.

The TD-50X module features over 900 sounds, including many new kick, snare, hi-hat, tom, and cymbal selections. There are also 70 ready-to-play preset kits, all purposefully tuned for full, punchy, and dynamic sound. Users can make quick adjustments to tuning and muffling, or build kits from the ground up by selecting shell depths, drumhead types, cymbal characteristics, and more. PureAcoustic Ambience provides a wide variety of immersive playing spaces, and a massive selection of studio-grade processing tools are on hand to shape sounds to perfection.

The TD-50KV2, TD-50K2, and VAD706 kits also feature Roland’s breakthrough digital pad technology, which fully leverages the vast expressive potential made possible with Prismatic Sound Modeling. Multi-sensors in the PD-140DS snare, CY-18DR ride, and new VH-14D hi-hat pads workwith the lightning-fast processing in the TD-50X module to bring authentic acoustic nuance and detail to these core kit pieces. All playing techniques translate seamlessly, such as touching the ride to mute the sound or switching at will between head, rimshot, and cross stick playing on the snare. The VH-14D takes the electronic hi-hat to a new level of performance, offering touch sensitivity, tonal variation, and open/closed resolution never available until now.

Loaded with pro connectivity, the TD-50X module is ready to take on the practical needs of any playing situation. Stereo XLR master outs and eight TRS direct outs allow the player to send any drums they like to an audio console via balanced connections. And for computer-based music production, the TD-50X can send up to 32 channels of digital audio plus MIDI over USB for premium-quality transfer.

Roland, a leading manufacturer of electronic musical instruments and professional video products, announced that the Roland F701 Digital Piano, the most compact of Roland’s upright pianos, has won a Red Dot Design Awards: Product Design 2021 for its soft, inviting design and commanding performance.

As one of the largest, oldest, and most respected design competition in the world, the Red Dot Design Award has provided a platform for designers and companies to assess and praise exceptional design for more than 60 years. The Red Dot Awards have now honored Roland with accolades for product design three times since 2017. Previous winners include LX700 series and FP-90.

As the most compact of all of Roland’s upright pianos, the F701 is an ideal piano for learning at home – especially for those who appreciate understated looks. Designed to complement modern room styles, the F701 resembles a sleek sideboard cabinet, with white or light oak color options, it blends naturally with a wide range of decor. And thanks to its compact size this is a piano that fits easily in smaller spaces.

The F701 epitomizes Roland’s soft and inviting design language. Its profile is simple, slim, and subtle, with rounded corners and a lid that slides over the keys when not in use. Even the rear-view appeals, with neatly arranged connections that allow the piano to face any direction without unsightly wires.

Although small in size, the F701’s performance is commanding. Roland’s SuperNATURAL sound and PHA-4 Standard keyboard – featuring hammer action, escapement, and ivory-feel white keys – all react to the subtlest touch, for a truly inspiring playing experience. And with an easy-to read, icon-driven display, onboard practice features, and Bluetooth connectivity for exploring an exciting world of apps, the F701 is the perfect instrument for learning to play.

The Red Dot Jury compromises 50 international experts who test, discuss, and evaluate each entry individually based on judging criteria adapted to new technical, social economic, and ecological requirements such as innovation, functionality, quality, durability, and ecological compatibility, among others.

Roland announced Aerophone Pro, the new flagship model in the company’s acclaimed Aerophone series of digital wind instruments. Combining numerous design refinements and premium components with enhanced playability and a vast sonic palette from Roland’s SuperNATURAL and ZEN-Core sound engines, Aerophone Pro enables wind players to take their music where it’s never gone before.

Introduced in 2016, the Aerophone series has opened a universe of creative possibilities for wind musicians. While developing Aerophone Pro, Roland reached out to expert players around the globe for suggestions on taking the Aerophone experience to the next level. Their feedback led to many thoughtful improvements that substantially enhance the instrument’s look, feel, sound, and playability. The result is a revolutionary wind instrument that gives musicians a bold and highly expressive new voice.

Aerophone Pro’s thin, ergonomic design looks great on stage and is easier to hold for a more confident playing experience. Controls are easy to reach, and the streamlined body and aluminum accents exude an understated-yet-classy presence. The discrete OLED screen provides quick visual access to various parameters can be viewed at any angle and in any kind of lighting.

The stock fingering on Aerophone Pro is the same as an acoustic sax and includes a high-F# key. Multiple user-customizable fingerings are supported as well, and configurable control for both hands and a MIDI input for footswitches greatly expand performance options. Through extensive research and development, the breath and bite sensors are more responsive and expressive than ever, and the user can save personalized settings for their own style.

Aerophone Pro packs entire brass and woodwind sections into one instrument. Developed with professional players, there are newly enhanced soprano, alto, and tenor saxes, vibrant new trumpet sounds, and authentic world instruments like the stunning new duduk. Roland’s SuperNATURAL technology translates every playing nuance with lifelike dynamics, articulations, and overtones, while new controller options enable idiomatic performance techniques on a range of instruments, from mainstream to exotic.

Aerophone Pro also features Roland’s ZEN-Core Synthesis System, the sound engine that powers flagship synthesizers like FANTOM and JUPITER-X. Presets crafted by the world’s foremost wind synth sound designers provide everything from vintage analog synth tones to modern hybrid sounds, with the refined expression and articulation only a wind instrument can provide.

Aerophone Pro enables powerful and expressive performances in any situation. Its robust design and flexible audio and MIDI connections make it perfect for any live gig, or as the center of a wind controller-based production studio. And with a headphones jack, Bluetooth MIDI, built-in speaker, and battery-powered operation, users can pick up and play whenever and wherever inspiration strikes.

Aerophone Pro offers powerful onboard editing tools for personalizing sounds on the spot. Even deeper customization and sound organization is available through an editor app for iOS and Android mobile devices. And with easily selectable scene memories and favorites, users can quickly navigate the large array of tones and mark them for instant recall while performing.

Roland announced the P-20HD Video Instant Replayer, an affordable hardware solution for bringing professional instant replay capabilities to any live production setup. Offering simple operation and seamless integration with most Roland A/V switchers and HDMI camcorders and cameras, the P-20HD transforms everyday video production for school sports, coaches, trainers, esports, and more.

When watching a sporting event live or on a broadcast stream, today’s audience expect the same high production values they see when watching pro teams on broadcast TV. With the P-20HD, adding the magic of instant replay to local production has never been easier. Using intuitive controls and integrated color LCD, a single operator can cue up replays of action to let fans relive important moments, either on a streaming feed or a live event screen in the venue – or both at once.

The P-20HD records directly to high-capacity SD cards, which are widely available and easy to swap out. Action can be replayed in forward, reverse, or slow motion, stepped through frame by frame, or frozen for detailed analysis. The game is continuously recorded in the background during replays, with no gaps in the action.

The P-20HD panel features an array of dedicated hardware controls for a hands-on, frustration-free experience. Transport button include play, pause, forward, rewind, mark in, and mark out. A jog/shuffle wheel with optical encoding provides precise, fluid control to scrub clips for replay and editing, while the T-bar directly adjusts playback speed. A Speed Range function offers ultra-fine control, perfect focusing in on tight action and contested plays.

After the action is over, the media playlist builder makes it possible to aggregate clips into curated pro videos, letting users celebrate the best moments of a game on social media or distribute practice and training sessions to coaches and players for evaluation. The P-20HD natively records in the universal H.264 format, so files can be uploaded to most platforms with no conversion steps in-between.

To learn more about the P-20HD Video Instant Replayer, visit Roland.com.

Roland welcomes three new instruments to the famous TR drum machine family. Based on the flagship TR-8S, the TR-6S Rhythm Performer delivers the next-generation TR performance in a compact and affordable package. The TR-06 Drumatix is the latest addition to the Roland Boutique series, blending the sounds and workflow of the ’80s-era TR-606 hardware with modern enhancements. Also based on the TR-606, the TR-606 Software Rhythm Composer expands Roland Cloud’s Legendary series with another renowned TR instrument.

TR-6S Rhythm Performer

The TR-6S delivers the same speaker-pummeling, window-rattling, body-moving sound of its bigger sibling. It features a six-track sequencer and the most iconic rhythm sounds in music history—all in a battery-powered box that fits just about anywhere. Authentic recreations of legendary Roland drum machines like the 808, 909, 707, 606, and more are included, and users can mix and match them with preset and custom samples and futuristic FM tones to create exotic hybrid kits.

The sound of modern music owes a lot to the classic step sequencer—and the “TR-REC” variety found in early Roland drum machines in particular. The TR-6S employs the same tried-and-true approach, elevated with real-time recording and modern enhancements. And with an array of expressive effects, users can take their rhythm tracks to new levels. The TR-6S is a high-quality USB audio/MIDI interface too, perfect for mobile or minimal production setups.

TR-06 Drumatix

The TR-06 is a detailed replica of the Roland TR-606 Drumatix from the 1980s—with some major modern upgrades. This new Roland Boutique version captures the distinctive tone and iconic look of the original while reimagining it with bold new sound-crafting potential. Users can control tuning, decay, and pan for each instrument, or crank up the internal gain for each circuit model and push it into warm overdrive or aggressive distortion. An onboard compressor adds fullness and punch, while the tempo delay creates depth and space.

Like the original, the TR-06 has a familiar and straightforward step sequencer. But now it’s been updated with advanced features like sub-steps for ratcheted parts, step-loop for instant pattern slicing, and more. With five trigger outputs and a trigger input, the TR-06 integrates nicely with modular setups. It’s a high-quality USB audio interface too, and features battery operation and a built-in speaker for production on the go.

TR-606 Software Rhythm Composer

With the TR-606 Software Rhythm Composer, the underground ‘80s classic is now available as a plug-in for DAW music production. The software version has the same sound and behavior of the original, plus powerful new features that virtually modify the circuitry for more sound choices and faster, more fluid programming.

Like the TR-06 hardware, the TR-606 plug-in offers tuning, decay, and pan on each instrument andthe ability to overdrive the internal circuitry. The step sequencer has been expanded with lanes for each sound, and each pattern has eight variations plus adjustable flams, sub-steps, and soft hits.

Users can pair the TR-8S or TR-06 with the TR-606 and enjoy the benefits of easy hardware and software integration. Patterns can be shared between the TR-8S and TR-606, and the TR-06’s knobs are pre-mapped to the plug-in for intuitive, hands-on workflow.

The TR-606 Software Rhythm Composer, along with all instruments in the Legendary series, is included with the Ultimate membership level of Roland Cloud. All paid levels—including Core and Pro—start with a free 30-day trial of Ultimate. In addition, any Roland Account holder can purchase Lifetime Keys for individual Legendary series titles.

Roland announced the debut of the VC-100UHD 4K Video Scaler, a next-generation A/V signal management solution for live events, fixed installations, and streaming applications. Equipped with Roland’s acclaimed Ultra Scaler processing technology, the VC-100UHD allows users to input 4K and 1080p video sources and distribute them to multiple destinations at one time, including 4K LED walls, HD displays, and USB 3.0 livestreams. High frame rates up to 240 Hz are also supported, delivering smooth motion for esports, animated displays, and more.

Built on a reliable hardware platform for mission-critical applications, the powerhouse VC-100UHD combines multiple single-task technologies in a compact and flexible half-rack design. Backed by a lightning-fast processing engine, the VC-100UHD’s Ultra Scaler provides premium quality conversion for perfectly synchronized big-screen IMAG and precise dot-by-dot scaling for LED wall displays.

With an ultra-high definition source signal connected to the 12G-SDI or HDMI 2.0 video inputs, the VC-100UHD will automatically process and convert it to different resolutions, ready for distribution at 12G-SDI, HDMI, and USB 3.0 rear-panel outputs. Thanks to Ultra Scaler technology, system designers can simultaneously deliver 1080p video at rates up to 240 Hz for a gaming monitor, 59.94/50 for an HD video system and LED displays, and 59.94/50 Hz for an HD livestream broadcast.

The VC-100UHD also includes built-in visual effects, allowing users to rotate, flip, trim, and mirror images on each output. And with Frame Synchronizer an Genlock features, video images can be re-clocked and stabilized as needed.

Via a plug-and-play USB 3.0 webcam output, VC-100UHD users can reach a worldwide audience and broadcast uncompressed 1080p video at 59.94/50 Hz on popular streaming platforms. Roland also offers free VR Capture software, which records HD livestream in ProRes 422 (Mac) or Mp4 (Windows) formats for later editing and distribution.

Along with video, the VC-100UHD can process embedded digital audio from its 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 inputs. Analog I/O is provided as well, with balanced audio on a 25-pin D-sub connector for installations and line-level stereo audio on RCA jacks for prosumer video gear. The advanced audio patching system lets users route and embed/de-embed up to 16 input channels and output up to 8 channels. An adjustable delay is also provided on each output to correct lip sync issues.

The VC-100UHD works as a portable processor for grab-and-go productions, or can be installed in a rack for use in larger systems and fixed installations. The unit’s rich integration capabilities include custom EDID on HDMI, 24 video test patterns, an audio test tone generator, system backup via USB memory, and remote control support over LAN.

Roland, a leading manufacturer of electronic musical instruments and professional video products, announces the release of SRX Piano I and SRX Piano II through Roland Cloud, based on classics from the SRX wave expansion board series. Both of these detailed concert pianos are available for immediate download with a Roland Cloud membership.

Based on Complete Piano and Concert Piano, the second and eleventh titles in Roland’s legacy SRX wave expansion board series, SRX Piano I and SRX Piano II present exquisite stereo-sampled concert pianos for composition, recording, and performance.

The samples in SRX Piano I were taken from a single, rare European piano, using high-end mics and converters to preserve its soft, delicate voice and natural resonance. SRX Piano II presents a single, stunning, 88-note acoustic grand. Sampled specifically for the original board, this world-class piano was recorded in high-resolution stereo, with four way velocity switching and other nuances.

Offering expressive playability with clear tone, bright harmonics, and ultra-wide dynamic range, these two inspiring instruments are ideal for virtually all musical styles.

Roland announced the TAIKO-1 Electronic Taiko Percussion, a portable electronic taiko drum with a versatile range of Japanese percussion sounds. As a Japanese company, Roland has always maintained a strong desire to contribute to its country’s historic taiko culture by helping bring the dedication and artistry of traditional Japanese music to a wider audience.

Born and made in Japan, the groundbreaking TAIKO-1 infuses the classic taiko experience with the benefits of modern music technology, making playing Japanese percussion more fun and accessible than ever before. Completed to coincide with the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Roland is proud to introduce TAIKO-1 and share their passion for Japanese drums with the world.

Japan’s taiko drumming tradition has been deeply woven into the country’s culture since ancient times. Over a million people in Japan play the taiko, and the instrument’s popularity is spreading around the globe. However, the giant sound, large physical size, and regular maintenance needs of taiko drums make them impossible for many people to play and learn. Professional taiko performers face challenges as well, as the drums are hard to carry, costly to ship, and difficult to amplify in some venues.

TAIKO-1’s physical design is based on the katsugi okedo daiko, a popular taiko drum carried on a sling over the shoulder. But the modern digital sound engine expands the instrument’s range much further, providing a large array of taiko percussion sounds at the touch of a button, plus the availability to import WAV sounds via USB. Roland’s legendary mesh heads deliver authentic playability, with dual-zone trigger technology and positional sensing providing wide tonal range and full dynamic response.

TAIKO-1’s mesh heads also offer acoustically quiet performance for practicing anytime and anywhere, something that’s impossible with a traditional taiko drum. Users can plug in headphones and enjoy big, dynamic taiko tones with barely a whisper heard by family members and neighbors. Traditional ji-uchi backing patterns are available for timing practice and performance accompaniment, while built-in Bluetooth allows users to stream backing music and lesson content wirelessly from a smartphone.

The Roland TAIKO-1 is expected to be available in July 2020 for $1,500.00.

Roland announced the RD-88 Stage Piano, the latest model in the company’s long-running RD series. For over 30 years, Roland RD pianos have been the top choice of professional keyboardists, appearing regularly on stages all over the world. Offering premium features in a light, streamlined design, the RD-88 delivers renowned RD sound and playability in an affordable instrument that’s simple to use and easy to carry.

Equipped with the 88-note PHA-4 keyboard, the RD-88 provides exceptional feel and response with Roland’s award-winning hammer action and Ivory Feel keys. Every musical nuance is perfectly translated, giving serious players the inspiring touch they need for authentic performances. A high-quality speaker system is also integrated into the instruments design, offering convenient self-contained amplification for home practice and convenient monitoring.

The RD-88 is refreshingly intuitive to use while performing, with fast-access controls for selecting sound categories, creating layers and splits, and more. It’s easy to shape the tone and color via grab-and-go knobs and enhance sounds with compressor, chorus/delay, reverb, and other effects. Favorite setups can be stored for quick recall, and a One-Touch Piano button allows the player to quickly return to their core piano sound at any time they like.

Advanced users will love the RD-88’s zone features and easy computer integration. Software-based sounds can be played through the RD-88 via USB, and three sones can be configured with internal sounds or set up to control virtual instruments from Apple MainStage.

The RD-88 features a clean and compact design that fits neatly into any musical situation. Weighing just 13.5 kg/29 lb. 13 oz, it’s easy to move and set up, even in small stages or in cramped rehearsal spaces.

The Roland RD-88 Stage Piano will be available for $1,999.99 in March 2020.

Roland introduced the TD-27KV V-Drums, a new mid-level electronic drum kit in the acclaimed V-Drums lineup. Equipped with advanced digital trigger pad technology and the latest V-Drums sound engine, the TD-27KV brings serious drummers premium playability and flagship-level expression at an affordable price.

The TD-27KV kit is based around the powerful new TD-27 module, which features a host of next-generation technologies derived from the top-of-the-line TD-50. Roland’s Prismatic sound engine combines curated samples with advanced behavior modeling refined over two decades, delivering an incredibly expressive and natural experience. Equipped with more than 700 instruments, 55 preset kits, and 100 kits in total, the tonal range of the TD-27 is rich in variety. Via an intuitive interface, drummers can access kits at the turn of a dial and quickly adjust instrument sounds with four simple controls.

Advanced PD-14ODS snare and CY-18DR ride pads offer sophisticated multi-sensing that works with the TD-27’s digital trigger inputs and fast, high-resolution processing to provide the most lifelike, resonant, and expressive sounds possible, plus support for natural techniques with cross-stick detection, ride cymbal muting, and more. The kit also includes three PDX-100 tom pads with Roland’s famous multi-layer mesh heads, CY-12C and CY-13R cymbal pads, a VH-10 V-Hi-Hat, and a KD-10 kick pad.

Users can customize the TD-27’s large onboard sound selection to a deep level. It’s also possible to import WAV samples via an SD card and freely combine them with built-in sounds. The module offers a stereo mix output and two assignable direct outputs, providing flexible connectivity for stage playing.

Additional trigger inputs are also available (one digital and three analog), making it easy for a player to expand their kit with additional pads and cymbals. For studio and home recording, TD-27’s advanced USB interface provides up to 28 individual audio channels for multi-track integration with any DAW.

V-Drums modules are renowned for their convenient practice features, and the TD-27 is no exception. Onboard Bluetooth allows drummers to wirelessly stream music from their phone through the module and play along. An analog mix input is provided as well, and incoming sounds can be blended easily with a dedicated panel knob.

There’s also a wide selection of Coach functions to help build timing and other basic skills, and users can record performances with the touch of a button. A new dedicated audio circuit for monitoring the TD-27 sound module with headphones provides clear and balanced sound quality, making each practice and playing session a comfortable and enjoyable experience.