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Description

The Roland A-880 is a staple accessory in the studio recording realm, seamlessly bridging the gap between your MIDI devices. This 8-in/8-out MIDI patch bay is designed to handle complex MIDI setups with ease, making it an ideal choice for musicians and producers who demand efficiency and reliability. With its intuitive interface, the A-880 allows you to route MIDI signals effortlessly, ensuring that your creative workflow remains uninterrupted.

The A-880 is equipped with advanced MIDI processing capabilities, which include merging, filtering, and re-channeling options. This flexibility ensures that you can tailor your MIDI data flow to meet the specific needs of your studio projects. Whether you're working with vintage hardware or the latest digital instruments, this patch bay can handle it all, thanks to its robust architecture.

For those who prioritize precision and control in their music production, the A-880 is a valuable addition. Its rack-mountable design makes it easy to integrate into any studio setup, while the straightforward front panel controls ensure you can make adjustments on the fly. This MIDI patch bay is not just about connectivity; it's about enhancing your creative potential.

Key Features:

  • 8 MIDI inputs and 8 MIDI outputs
  • MIDI merging, filtering, and re-channeling capabilities
  • Intuitive interface for easy routing setup
  • Rack-mountable design for studio integration
  • Compatible with a wide range of MIDI devices
  • Ideal for complex MIDI setups in professional studios
The MIDI Maniac (Roger)

The MIDI Maniac (Roger)

Do you need one? Roland A-880 MIDI Patcher - Basic MIDI tutorial

Video thumbnail for Do you need one? Roland A-880 MIDI Patcher - Basic MIDI tutorial by The MIDI Maniac (Roger)

Do you need one? Roland A-880 MIDI Patcher - Basic MIDI tutorial

The MIDI Maniac (Roger)

The MIDI Maniac (Roger)

Video thumbnail for Roland A-880 - What's inside the box? by The Music Tech Guy UK

Roland A-880 - What's inside the box?

The Music Tech Guy UK

The Music Tech Guy UK

Video thumbnail for Roland A-880 - How to mix and combine two midi inputs - "Merge" function by Leandro Cleto

Roland A-880 - How to mix and combine two midi inputs - "Merge" function

Leandro Cleto

Leandro Cleto

Video thumbnail for Roland A-880 - 110V to 220V Unit Transplant by The Music Tech Guy UK

Roland A-880 - 110V to 220V Unit Transplant

The Music Tech Guy UK

The Music Tech Guy UK

Reviews

PROS

  • Offers a great variety of sounds and sonic possibilities

  • Expandable with a variety of expansion cards

  • Positive feedback on sound quality from demo songs

  • User-friendly, with supportive online tutorials available

  • Allows for customization, such as screen color replacement

CONS

  • Factory default display can be dim and hard to read

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland A-880.

Features and functionality

  • Roland A-880 MIDI patchbays don't synchronize together, requiring additional routing solutions like MIDI thru boxes for complex setups.

    Source
  • The Roland A-880 offers zero computer integration, making it ideal for standalone setups and those who prefer not to rely on software control.

    Source
  • The Signex CPM22 offers a simple solution for routing rear-facing MIDI ports to the front of a rack setup, priced around $100 new, with used units available for less.

    Source
  • Kenton Thru-25 box provides 25 MIDI ports, ideal for setups needing extensive MIDI thru capabilities without merging or splitting features.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Conductive Labs' MRCC is frequently praised for simplifying MIDI routing, offering advanced features like MIDI message translation and keyboard splits.

    Source
  • The Steinberg Midex-8 offers computer-controlled filtering through DAW preferences, which contrasts with the standalone nature of the Roland A-880.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Motu MTP AV allows front panel programming for routing and filtering, though the software can be overwhelming but reliable once configured.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the KMX MIDI CENTRAL find its 15 in x 16 out configuration with merge capabilities beneficial for extensive MIDI networks.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Understanding MIDI channel use is crucial; one device can use multiple channels, reducing the need for numerous outputs.

    Source
  • Filtering unused MIDI messages is essential to prevent lag and congestion in older MIDI setups, particularly with vintage gear.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The iConnectivity mioXL supports 22 inputs and offers flexible routing, though documentation could be clearer initially.

    Source
  • The Edirol UM-550 is recommended for standalone sequencing and beatclock control, with the advantage of face-programmability and full USB I/O on all channels.

    Source
  • The Roland A-880 and Kawai MAV8 are suggested as alternatives for those needing front port access in a MIDI router, suitable for flexible MIDI setups.

    Source
  • Utilizing TRS or XLR patch bays for MIDI routing is discussed, leveraging the three-pin requirement of MIDI signals with DIN to TRS/XLR cables.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 6 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Wojtek Olszak uses Roland A-880

Wojtek Olszak

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Woobie Doobie

...
Verified via Olszak

The instrument appears on the list of instruments on official artist's website (http://olszak.pl/).

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland A-880, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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