Roland’s new SH-4d Synthesizer is desktop instrument with its focus on synthesis and sound design and practical applications in the studio, on stage and while travelling
With 11 OSC Models and a panel populated with tactile physical controls, the SH-4d includes a multitimbral sequencer with four synth parts and a customisable rhythm part, allowing users to compose intricate patterns with motion recording and extensive effects.
The OSC Models offer diverse sound-crafting possibilities, from vintage analogue with SH-4d, SH-3D, Chord, Ring and Sync Models, to digital textures with Cross FM, Wavetable and Drawing Models. Influences from Roland’s historic past include SH-101 and Juno-106, and a PCM Model with a large selection of sample-based sounds. The SH-4d also a flexible drum synthesiser with tone-shaping capabilities for creating custom kits from scratch.
The SH-4d panel offers 32 knobs, four sliders and an array of multi-function buttons. The LCD, sliders and buttons automatically reconfigure their functions to follow the selected mode. Dedicated Filter, Amp and LFO sections are always ready to shape any tone or pattern, while the Matrix section supports creation of wider range of sounds by routing the output of the LFO or envelope generator to parameters in a Model.
The SH-4d features built-in motion sensors that allow the user to pick up the synth and adjust sounds with physical movements. D-Motion mode provides X/Y control for two parameters, while the unique Visual Arpeggio shapes note patterns via interactive displays.
The sequencer provides 60 notes of total polyphony to develop complete musical ideas in the box. There’s also a selection of Roland effects to frost, finesse, rough up or mangle tones and patterns.
The SH-4d runs on a standard USB-C phone charger or AA batteries for up to four hours. There’s a two-plus octave button keyboard for self-contained composition, plus MIDI I/O for use as a sound module and controller in an expanded hardware set-up. The SH-4d also functions as a USB-C audio/Midi interface with 12 discrete audio channels for computer music production.
The Roland SH-4d will be available in the US in March, priced at $649.99.
More: www.roland.com/global
