Roland

Roland is offering one lucky fan the chance to score a Roland DJ-202 controller as part of our DJ Mag Panels event, streaming live today (Tuesday 21st November) from Berlin. 

Featuring DJ/producer BEC and DJ Mag's tech editor Mick Wilson, the panel will walk fans through the features of the Roland DJ-202 and the Roland DJ-505 controllers, with assistance from Roland product manager Nick de Friez. 

Roland have added the D-50 to their Boutique range in the form of the updated Roland D-05. The first digital synth to be replicated as part of the Boutique models, the D-50 is a unique synth released in 1987. Using a range of new technologies, it was capable of creating sharp soundscapes, bright bass sounds and evolving tones, helped with its unique XY joypad.

Roland have launched two new DJ controllers for Serato. The more advanced DJ-505 is a two-channel, four deck controller, and appears to be a cut down version of the flagship DJ-808 with the same 808 and 909 sounds and sequencer, with 707 and 606 to follow in an update.

Roland’s SH-101 is a legendary mono synth and according to the Instagram account of Roland employee Nick de Friez, it may be one of the next synths the Japanese giants release as part of their popular Boutique range of mini classics.

Roland has added its iconic 1980’s synth, the D-50, to its digital subscription service. Access to the RolandCloud is only $19.95 ($US) per month.

Similar in function to Yamaha’s DX7, the D-50 was originally released in 1987 and was key in the development of late ‘80s pop, R&B, and the new jack swing movement. Its sound engine, a unique combination of sampling and synthesis, remains in-demand 30 yeas after its inception.  Check out the list of features at the bottom.

Some of the most important innovations in electronic music came about by mistake. Whether it be the way that Roland's TR-808 and then the TR-909 drum machines were picked up and abused by early techno and electro producers, the emergence of the Fairlight sampler, or the accidental advent of quantisation or the Moog's filter sound, unintentional discoveries about aspects of certain equipment have had a profound impact on the growth of electronic music.

Roland's Boutique range of synths is the home of digital versions of Roland's classic machines, including the Juno 106, TR-909 and TB-303.

The SE-02 is the first in a series that has been made alongside analogue manufacturer Studio Electronics, who are behind the revered MidiMini, SE-1, ATC-1, Omega 8, CODE 8, Boomstar, and Tonestar

Instead of using analogue modelling technology — which has been found in Roland's previous Boutique and Aira synths — the SE-02 features actual real circuits instead.

Sonar isn't just a world-class music festival with a meticulously programmed line-up, there's also Sonar—D, an interactive showcase of some of the world's most sought after gear.

Synth maker Roland was on hand at this year's festival to show off their latest synths in Barcelona, including company's System-8 synthesiser, the full Aira series and the company's boutique range including remakes of classics like the TR-909 and TB-303.

Check out all of the above equipment being put through its paces in the video below.