Roland A-80 Controller

$223.08 Price Tier: Standard

3.0 (1)

1 Critic Review

1 Review

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Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

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5.0 (3)

$223.08 4 available Used

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Average Price: $223

Standard/Professional

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$501+

Price Tier

In the MIDI Keyboard Controllers category, Roland A-80 Controller is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Description

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The Roland A-80 Controller is a classic piece of gear that combines robust functionality with a user-friendly interface, making it a staple for both studio and live performances. This MIDI Keyboard Controller is crafted to enhance your musical creativity with its 88 weighted keys, offering an authentic piano feel for expressive playability. With the A-80, Roland has ensured that musicians have the ability to control their entire rig seamlessly, thanks to its comprehensive set of MIDI features and connectivity options.

Designed with a focus on versatility, the A-80 includes four independent MIDI outputs, allowing you to connect multiple devices and manage your setup efficiently. Its intuitive layout includes a large LCD screen for easy navigation and real-time control over various parameters, providing the flexibility you need whether composing, performing, or recording.

The Roland A-80 also features aftertouch capability, which adds another layer of expression to your performance by allowing you to modulate effects and dynamics simply through key pressure. This controller is built with durability in mind, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of both stage and studio environments.

Key Features:

88 weighted keys with aftertouch for an authentic piano feel
Four independent MIDI outputs for versatile connectivity
Large LCD screen for easy navigation and parameter control
Comprehensive MIDI functionality for seamless integration with various musical setups
Built-in memory for storing custom setups and preferences

Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring artist, the Roland A-80 Controller is designed to elevate your musical journey, offering a timeless blend of functionality and expressive potential.

Product specs

Brand	Roland
Model	A-80 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller
Finish	Black
Year	1989 - 1995
Categories	Keyboard MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital	Digital
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Weighted
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys	88 Keys

FAQs

Does the Roland A-80 Controller have weighted keys?: Yes, the Roland A-80 features a fully weighted keyboard, providing a piano-like feel that is ideal for expressive playing.
Can the Roland A-80 transmit aftertouch data?: Yes, the Roland A-80 is capable of transmitting aftertouch data, allowing for dynamic control over MIDI instruments and effects.
What MIDI connectivity options does the Roland A-80 offer?: The Roland A-80 includes MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through ports, making it versatile for connecting with other MIDI devices in your setup.
Is the Roland A-80 suitable for live performances?: With its robust build and full-size, weighted keys, the Roland A-80 is well-suited for live performances, offering reliable control over MIDI instruments.
How many keys does the Roland A-80 MIDI controller have?: The Roland A-80 MIDI controller features 88 full-size keys, providing a comprehensive range for performing complex compositions.

Videos

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The Music Tech Guy UK

Roland A-80, Roland D-05 and Don Muro

The Music Tech Guy UK

Roland A-80 REPAIR: New Blue Display & Amazing Aftertouch

The MIDI Maniac (Roger)

Roland A-80 MIDI Controller | Native Instruments Kontakt | Epic Chords

Agus Susanto

Reviews

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PROS

Exceptional piano action for a MIDI controller, even after 30 years
Superior to Yamaha KX-88 in action and capabilities
Supports six pedal/switch inputs for extensive control
Polyphonic aftertouch, a rare feature in MIDI controllers
Built like a tank, ideal for studio use
Perfect for virtual piano software with a reliable MIDI interface
Can alter sound settings without adjusting source modules

CONS

Heavy and cumbersome at approximately 65 lbs
Lacks modern support and requires hunting for parts online
OS setup can be complex and difficult
Known issues with aftertouch functionality

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland A-80 Controller.

Features and functionality

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The Roland A-80 includes rare features like a pitch bend joystick, pitch wheel, and modulation wheel, uncommon in Roland gear.
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The A-80 features two microcontrollers, each with its own firmware chip, allowing for potential firmware modifications or updates via EPROM writing.
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Some A-80 models have firmware issues sending incorrect poly-AT data, but modifications can mitigate this.
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Build quality

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The A-80 is known for its durable construction, often outperforming modern controllers in longevity.
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The display emits a physical whining sound, which can be distracting during use.
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Setup and maintenance

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Issues like screen backlight dimming and keys making a clacky noise have been noted, though they can be addressed with replacement parts.
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Low sensitivity of polyphonic aftertouch is noted, though it's manageable for those accustomed to acoustic pianos.
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Keys may require new felt to improve feel, as noted by owners experiencing a clacky keybed.
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User experience

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Owners praise the A-80 for its weighted action, stating it surpasses newer models like the NI S88 MKII in feel, despite being heavy.
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Owners find the A-80's weight (30 kg) significant, often opting to keep it stationary due to its heft.
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Owners who modify their A-80s often switch out resistors to make aftertouch sensitivity more practical.
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Comparisons

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The A-80 is often compared to the Yamaha KX88 for its age and reputation, both retaining high value due to their quality.
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Value and pricing

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In working condition, the A-80 typically sells for $400 to $700, contingent on cosmetic condition.
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Mods and upgrades

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An aftertouch upgrade guide exists, offering solutions to enhance polyphonic aftertouch sensitivity.
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Owners recommend replacing a resistor to improve polyphonic aftertouch sensitivity.
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Super glue application on power supply transformers can stop high-pitched squealing sounds.
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Critic Reviews

Roland A50 & A80 (MT Jun 89)

muzines.co.uk

Roland's A-80 and A-50 MIDI controllers deliver sophistication and a solid build, offering user-friendly operation and impressive control facilities that enhance any MIDI setup. The A-80's piano-style action may be sluggish for some, while the A-50's synth-style keyboard provides a versatile alternative. The controllers shine with features like polyphonic aftertouch and flexible routing, but fall short with non-addressable MIDI outputs and limited patch overlap capabilities. Despite its high price, the A-80 or the A-50 is a worthy investment for serious musicians seeking to elevate their MIDI control game.

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