Roland introduced Zentracker, a free audio recording app for iOS and Android mobile devices. Ideal for singer, songwriters, and instrumentalists, the app turns the device in everyone’s pocket into a professional-level multitrack recorder with advanced audio production tools. Zentracker puts the focus on getting ideas down while they’re still fresh with an easy-yet-powerful way to record, edit, and mix music anywhere.

Recording music doesn’t have to be complicated, and a complex home studio full of expensive gear is not required to get great results. Zentracker is simple to use and designed to capture inspired moments with a friendly, pick-up-and-go approach to recording and mixing. A complete studio is never further away than a smartphone or tablet, and a simple finger tap is all that’s needed to begin a new project.

Zentracker can be a musical scratchpad or the starting point of a professional production – or both. Creators can quickly record new ideas or build complete songs, all within the app. Over 200 audio loops are also included to jumpstart the creative process and fill out productions. And by saving Zentracker projects to Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive, it’s easy to share and collaborate with friends, bandmates, and other artists.

With unlimited tracks to work with, Zentracker puts no bounds on musical creativity. Users can craft complex, layered textures and overdub as much as needed to complete a project. The integrated mixing console provides touch control of each track’s level and pan position, and 16 audio effects are available for pro results that don’t require a degree in audio engineering.

The free version of Zentracker is mighty powerful, but users can unlock even more creative options by upgrading to a Roland Cloud Core, Pro, or Ultimate membership. Additional Zentracker features include expanded audio effects, unlimited track sends, stem export support, timeline automation, over 20 Loop Packs, and much more. Membership also provides access to all the other wonders on Roland Cloud, like authentic Roland virtual instruments and effects, expanded sound content, additional mobile apps, and many other powerful production tools.

Roland announced the JX-08 and JD-08 Sound Modules, the latest additions to the award-winning Roland Boutique lineup of compact electronic instruments. The JX-08 offers a scaled-down recreation of the JX-8P, one of the last analog synthesizers produced by Roland in the 1980s and a highly sought-after piece for vintage synth fans.

The JD-08 is a compact reproduction of Roland’s JD-800 synthesizer, an influential digital instrument from the early 1990s loved for its complex, gleaming sound and comprehensive hands-on control.

In 1985, Roland’s innovative JX-8P took hybrid keyboard design to the next level, fusing analog synthesis with precision digital control. Top session players instantly embraced its compelling new voice, forever embedding the instrument’s warm pads, shimmery chorus, and crystalline textures into the most popular songs of the era. The JX-08 reintroduces the unique sounds of the JX-8P in stunning detail, coupled with powerful new effects, a polyphonic sequencer, and more.

The JX-08 features expanded polyphony, two-part multitimbral capability, and dual/split modes. It also includes 32 presets from the original hardware and 100-plus new patches tuned for contemporary styles. And to enhance the creative workflow, there’s a full panel of hands-on controls derived from the companion PG-800 programmer unit for the original hardware. After crafting sounds, users can store their creations in 256 preset slots for easy recall.

By the early 1990s, preset-driven digital synths with limited tactile controls dominated the landscape. The JD-800 changed all that in 1991, bringing the synthesizer world back to its roots with a control-laden panel and an aggressively electronic sound palette. Combining the original JD-800 waveforms with advanced modeling techniques, the JD-08 delivers the exquisite hands-on sound design of the original, with hugely expanded polyphony, a two-part polyphonic sequencer, and other modern updates.

The JX-08 includes 64 presets from the original hardware and perfectly recreates the four-tone structure, 108 waveforms, and unique two-part multi-effects behind the JD-800’s intricate, evolving sound. It also features a miniature version of the well-stocked JD-800 control panel, giving users an inspiring selection of sliders, buttons, and knobs for on-the-spot sound manipulation.

The JX-08 and JD-08 feature a built in USB-C audio/MIDI interface for working with computer production software, along with full-size MIDI I/O for connecting with other MIDI hardware. An external clock input is also available on each unit, allowing users to drive the onboard sequencer and arpeggiator from vintage analog instruments and modern Eurorack systems.

Like all Roland Boutique modules, the JX-08 and JD-08 are highly portable and can run on USB bus power or batteries. Each module also includes a built-in speaker for mobile sound monitoring. And when mounted in an optional K-25m Keyboard Unit, the JX-08 or JD-08 can be used as a compact, all-in-one synth with 25 velocity-sensitive keys.

Roland announced the JD-800 Software Synthesizer, the latest edition to the Legendary series of software-based Roland instruments available through Roland Cloud.

In early 2021 – 30 years after the debut of the original JD-800 hardware synth – Roland introduced the JD-800 Model Expansion for the ZENOLOGY software synthesizer and select ZEN-CORE hardware instruments.

The JD-800 is an authentic software recreation of the iconic ‘90s digital synth, available exclusively through Roland Cloud.

The anniversary celebration continues with the release of this iconic digital instrument as a dedicated DAW plug-in. The JD-800 Software Synthesizer delivers a virtual recreation of the original’s unique sound and inviting control-laden interface, along with a host of new features and enhancements for today’s music producers.

In the early 1990s, preset-driven digital synths with limited hands-on controls dominated the landscape. The JD-800 changed all that in 1991, bringing the synthesizer world back to its roots with a massive control-filled panel and an unapologetically electronic sound palette. An instant hit among the world’s top keyboard players, this innovative instrument found its way onto classic albums and numerous film and television scores, and it remains highly sought after to this day.

The JD-800 Software Synthesizer is painstakingly crafted to sound and behave exactly like the original hardware. Rather than simply combining a bunch of JD-800 samples, Roland used the original waveform data along with advanced modeling techniques to perfectly recreate the big, bright, spacious sound that only the JD-800 can deliver.

A key ingredient of the JD-800’s sound was its formidable multistage effects section. It’s been carefully recreated in the plug-in and enhanced with an expanded view for real-time tweaking. In addition to a master EQ, there are seven effects with adjustable controls and the ability to change the signal flow with drag-and-drop actions.

The JD-800 Sofware Synthesizer includes 64 newly crafted presets that show how inspiring and evocative the synth can be in a modern context.

And with the plug-in’s extensive array of top-level controls, users can easily create all-new sounds to make their music stand out from the crowd.

Roland announces TR-EDITOR, a free Mac/Windows software application for the popular TR-8S and TR-6S Rhythm Performer instruments. Representing the apex of the Roland TR line, the TR-8S and TR-6S are the most complete drum machines to date – forward-thinking, performance-turned instruments unlike any other.

TR-EDITOR significantly enhances the workflow of these hands-on machines, providing an easy-to-use graphical interface with expand visual controls and organizational tools that further amplify the TR’s creative possibilities.

TR-EDITOR’s large display and five tabs eliminate the need for menu diving and page scrolling on the hardware while designing kits and sounds. It’s possible to access kit and instrument parameters on a single screen, draw motion data for instant results, and view all parameters for selected FX at one time. Undo and redo are also available for quick revisions and comparing ideas.

The breakout librarian window in TR-EDITOR assists with organizing and managing patterns and kits. Users can access the complete TR library and filter various instrument categories to customize sounds. And via the computer keyboard, it’s quick and easy to name and rename hardware patches, kits, and projects.

TR-EDITOR is available for free through Roland Cloud Manager, the software interface for Roland Cloud content. Roland Cloud is also the home of Sample Packs and other premium content for taking the TR experience to the next level.

Roland announced the SP-404MKII Creative Sampler and Effector, the latest generation model in the legendary SP compact sampler series. Since 2005, SP samplers have been the bona fide kings of performance-based betaking, celebrated for their distinctive sound and ability to create rapid-fire beats anywhere, anytime, Carefully refined through community feedback and extensive research and development, the SP-404MKII is the ultimate SP sampler.

It’s faster and better than ever, with a vivid OLED display, expressive new pads, expanded effects, fluid sequencing and sampling, and a massive library of authentic sounds to inspire new music.

The SP-404MKII has everything creators love about its predecessors – along with some serious upgrades like 17 ultra-expressive pads and updated knobs for smooth, hands-on control. Beatmaking is even quicker with speedy boot time, fast project loading, and sample import. Project access is also easier via 16 GB of internal storage, which comes preloaded with a huge collection of curated samples to inspire the creative process right away. Users can create beats anywhere with AA or mobile battery power, interface with mobile devices via USB, or collaborate with partners using the dual headphones outputs and mic/guitar input.

Sample editing is ultra-smooth with the SP404MKII’s OLED screen and zoomable waveform view. Users can chop up samples in real time or employ auto chop to slice samples automatically, then finesse them with envelope and pitch shift. The new resampling workflow provides the ability to re-record patterns and effects layers for detailed sound design. And with Skip Back Sampling, it’s possible to capture inspired moments by recalling up to 25 seconds from the most recent performance.

The SP-404MKII features both legendary SP effects and a selection of new classics. Legacy staples like Vinyl Simulator and DJFX Looper are complemented with powerful additions that include Lo-fi Cassette Simulator, and Resonator. Users can also plug into the mic/guitar input and jam with ready-to-go Vocoder, Auto Pitch, and Guitar Amp Simulator effects.

The enhanced sequencing features in the SP-404MKII provide the flexibility to create patterns with unique feel and energy. There’s adjustable input quantize and shuffle for custom swing, Pad Link for firing off multiple samples with a single tap, a Roll button for variable note repeat, and BPM-per-bank for instant tempo changes. It’s also possible to organize patterns for different sets and chain them together to automate playback.

SP users are famous for personalizing their hardware to match their musical style and branding, and the SP-404MKII makes this process easier than ever. They can download a faceplate template to create custom overlays, style their startup screen with personalized logos, and select a screensaver that matches their creative vibe.

With the SP-404MKII App from Roland Cloud Manager, beat makers can take the SP experience even deeper with a Mac or Windows computer. This powerful app enhances workflow with a large sample waveform view, a pad matrix for sample and pattern management, easy import and export of files, and the ability to convert legacy SP-404SX and SP-404A projects to MKII format. Roland Cloud is also home to Beatmaker Sample Packs, an exclusive series of premium sample collections created by top sound designers and musicians to inspire productions on the SP-404MKII.

Roland announces the V-02HD MK II Streaming Video Mixer, a simple and affordable solution for bringing higher production values to computer-based live-streaming. Compact and easy to use, the V-02HD MK II allows users to connect and switch two high-quality HDMI cameras and send them directly to a favorite streaming platform over USB-C. It’s also possible to mix in audio sources via dedicated inputs and HDMI, apply video effects and transitions, and more.

From talk shows and live demonstrations to artistic performances and beyond, cameras that support HDMI output will elevate the image quality in livestreams and drive more audience engagement. They have much better lenses than any webcam and often have zoom capability to frame the perfect shot. Users can connect up to HDMI cameras to the V-02HD MK II and let Roland’s advanced tech handle all the details, eliminating USB conflicts with multiple webcams and HDMI-to-USB encoder adaptors. Other devices with HDMI output are also supported, including computers, mobile devices, and gaming consoles.

With its intuitive control layout and T-bar fader, the V-02HD MK II is very simple to operate. The USB connection is plug and play, ready for instant streaming with popular platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Twitch, and Zoom or advanced workflows such as OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, StreamYard, and Restream.

The V-02 MK II also include a 10-channel digital audio mixer with Roland’s legendary sound quality and control. There are two audio inputs with 3.5 mm jacks, and each support a microphone – including lavalier mics that require plug-in power – or stereo audio from a smartphone, mixer, or other device. Users can mix embedded stereo audio from HDMI sources as well, including microphones connected to cameras.

The V-02HD MK II supports hands-free control with up to two optional BOSS foot switches, a convenient feature for creators who perform or give demonstrations during streams. With a discrete off-camera stomp, it’s possible to switch camera angles, cut to a static image, transition scene layouts, fade picture-in-picture windows, and more.

Out of the box, the V-02HD MK II provides the dedicated controls needed to switch cameras and make basic adjustments to video and audio sources. But for users who want to dive deeper, there’s a world of advanced features and custom assignments to explore. Connecting an HDMI monitor provides a display for setting up a wide selection of audio and video effects, footswitch assignments, and more. And in one of Roland’s free remote control apps, users can operate the V-02HD MK II via an intuitive graphical interface on their iPad computer. (Remote control apps for macOS and Windows will be available in late 2021.)

The purchase of a V-02HD MK II also provides free access to Roland’s new AeroCaster Switcher for iPad, a powerful video and media expansion solution for select Roland hardware switchers. With this unique app, users can switch wireless feeds from up to five devices – including smartphone and tablet cameras and screen shares from computers and mobile devices – and then output a combined program to feed to the V-02HD MK II or another supported Roland switcher with HDMI input.

Roland introduced the ZENOLOGY FX Plug-in Effect, bringing more than 90 authentic effects to your DAW. Roland has delivered memorable, genre-defining sounds for nearly fifty years, and a big part of that sonic footprint is its unique approach to effects processing. The legendary swirling JUNO chorus, feedback-drenched tape echo, and other sounds that have left their mark on countless tracks over the decades — can now be added to any keyboard sound or instrument track to make music come alive.

While many of the processors in ZENOLOGY FX have vintage inspiration from legendary products like JUNO chorus, CE-1 stompbox and JD-800 synthesizer, use of them today through ZENOLOGY FX is thoroughly modern with a contemporary interface and simple controls for free-flowing creativity.

With ZENOLOGY FX, music makers can add delays to apps, larger-than-life modulation effects to chord progressions and twist and distort basses and lead tones the leap from the speakers. Delay add space without taking away presence and immediacy. Modulation effects include choruses, phasers, flangers, and more – and they work wonders on synths and other keyboards instruments.

ZENOLOGY FX also includes a menagerie of unique Roland effects to propel tracks into uncharted sonic territory. Explode the DJFX Looper and lo-fi effects from the SP-404, or color your sound with slicers, filters, overdrives, and other selections from the vast Roland effects legacy.

Roland announced GO:MIXER PRO-X, the latest member of the popular GO:MIXER family of audio mixers for smartphones and tablets. Ultra-compact and filled with audio connectivity, GO:MIXER products allow mobile content creators to capture multiple sound sources in high quality for music videos, livestreams, podcasts and more.

Compared with the previous GO:MIXER PRO model, GO:MIXER PRO-X offers expanded support for Android and iOS mobile devices, a guitar/bass input pad switch, and the ability to use a headset mic or the inline mic on smartphone earbuds as a sound source.

Today’s smartphones and tablets record great video, but their built-in microphones simply can’t deliver the sound quality needed to create polished productions that grab viewers and keep them engaged. GO:MIXER PRO-X is the ultimate companion for mobile content creation, combining multi-channel mixing, sound monitoring, and more in an affordable, palm-sized hardware device that goes everywhere.

GO:MIXER PRO-X supports the audio needs of all types of creators, whether working alone or with a group. Users can connect and mix up to seven audio sources, including a professional XLR microphone, guitar, or bass, a stereo instrument like a keyboard or drum machine, and two stereo line-level devices.

The headphones jack supports an additional mic feed, and the Loop Back function allows music and other audio from a connected mobile device to be mixed in as well. A newly added pad switch for the dedicated guitar/bass input lets users attenuate the signal if needed for instruments with active pickups.

GO:MIXER PRO-X is equipped with both USB Micro-B and four pile TRRS analog jacks, providing plug-and-play operation with most iOS and Android smartphones and tablets. Three different cable types are included for connecting to Lightning, USB-C, and four pole TRRS jacks on mobile devices. GO:MIXER PRO-X can be powered with four AAA-size batteries or through device connection when the USB Micro-B connector is used.

In addition to providing exceptional sound quality for videos and livestreams, GO:MIXER PRO-X excels as an audio interface for music apps like Roland Zenbeats or GarageBand, and it also works great as a portable standalone mixer for practicing and performing.

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.