Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1

^# 21

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$279.18 to $1,763.18 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (82)

12 Reviews

Find out who is using Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1

11 community setups

52 wishlisted

175 saved

Page last updated Jul 07, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated July 7, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

4.3 (85)

Used

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5.0 (20)

$279.18 16 available Used

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Average Price: $1,021

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1 is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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Introducing the Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1, a semi-modular analog modeling platform that pays tribute to the iconic System 100, System 100M, and System 700 synthesizers. This compact 25-key marvel boasts Roland's innovative "Plug-Out" technology, enabling you to host Roland soft-synths and accurately emulate classic sounds, all without the need for a computer. The SYSTEM-1 brings a fusion of vintage charm and modern technology, offering unparalleled versatility and unique soundscapes for music enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Key Features:

Semi-modular analog modeling platform
25-key compact design, perfect for portability
"Plug-Out" technology for hosting Roland soft-synths
Ability to emulate classic synthesizer sounds without a computer
Ideal for both music enthusiasts and professionals
Notable homage to classic Roland synthesizers: System 100, System 100M, and System 700.

Product specs

Brand	Roland
Model	SYSTEM-1 25-Key Plug-Out Synthesizer
Finish	Black
Year	2014 - 2025
Categories	Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Digital
Key Size	Slim
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys	25 Keys
Polyphony	4 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1 use?: The Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1 utilizes Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology to digitally recreate the sound and behavior of analog circuits with high precision.
Is the Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1 polyphonic?: Yes, the Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1 offers 4-voice polyphony, allowing you to play up to four notes simultaneously.
Can the Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1 function as a MIDI controller?: Yes, the SYSTEM-1 can operate as a MIDI controller, sending MIDI data without producing sound when set to the appropriate mode.
Does the Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1 have built-in effects?: The SYSTEM-1 includes built-in effects such as delay, reverb, and crusher, allowing you to shape and enhance your sounds directly on the synth.
How many keys does the Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1 have?: The Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1 features 25 slim keys with a synth action, designed for compact playability and expressive performance.
What connectivity options are available on the Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1?: The SYSTEM-1 offers MIDI input/output and USB MIDI connectivity, making it versatile for integration with various digital audio workstations and MIDI setups.

Videos

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RolandChannel

AIRA SYSTEM-1 Sound Bank Volume 1

RolandChannel

AIRA SYSTEM-1 and SH-101 Plug-Out

sonicstate

Roland System-1 Plug-out Synthesizer Overview - The Sweetwater Minute, Vol. 257

Sweetwater

Roland System-1 Demo

Hunart©

First look at Roland AIRA Series - System-1 Synth

Gearjunkies

Product Spotlight - Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1 PLUG-OUT Synthesizer

Guitar Center

MESSE 2014: Roland Aira System 1

sonicstate

Roland System-1 synthesizer | Play (sounds demo)

Whentherushcomes

Roland AIRA System-1 Synthesizer Jam

Jim Atwood

Roland AIRA System-1 Plug-Out Synthesizer

Musician's Friend

Roland AIRA System-1 and System-1M Performance with Peter Brown

Kraft Music

Roland AIRA System 1 Synth Unboxing..... | PMT

PMTVUK

Reviews

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PROS

Modern sounding filter with analog-style phase offset
Wide variety of oscillator options for sound design
Built-in effects (delay, lush reverb, sample reduction) add depth
Plug-out capability offers access to classic synth sounds
64 preset slots for extensive sound customization
Compact and lightweight, suitable for mobile or fixed studios
Acts as a full-blown MIDI controller for DAWs and plugins
Integrates well with other AIRA gear for live performance
I/O capability includes analog connectivity and USB3.0
Syncs tempo with DAW, enhancing studio workflow

CONS

Shift functions for some controls can be cumbersome
Driver issues with Mac updates can cause glitchy behavior
Some users report dead keys and inaccurate knobs
Plugouts can be expensive without Roland Cloud subscription
Limited to one plugout loaded at a time
No aftertouch or pressure/velocity sensitivity on keys
Lack of CV connectivity disappoints modular synth enthusiasts
Some users feel it becomes redundant with Roland Cloud access
No tap tempo/delay system for standalone use
Perceived by some as not entirely suitable for professional use

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland AIRA SYSTEM-1.

Features and functionality

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The System-1 features a tone knob that allows for a wide range of sounds, from deep, fat tones to thin, gentle ones, enhancing its versatility.
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The System-1 includes 'plug-out' capability, allowing it to emulate other synths, though users may need to pay for additional models.
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The System-1 features an arpeggiator with a keyhold function, enhancing playability in the absence of a built-in sequencer.
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Owners should update the firmware to access 6 new oscillator types and increased patch storage, from 8 slots to 64 across 8 banks.
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Comparisons

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The System-1's architecture offers more waveforms and modulation options compared to the Minilogue XD, but lacks the XD's superior effects and sequencer.
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Some owners compare the System-1 unfavorably to the Korg Minilogue XD, preferring the latter's sound quality.
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Use cases and applications

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Owners frequently use the System-1 for sound design due to its hands-on control and logical layout, despite criticism for its aesthetics and lack of a sequencer.
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The System-1m is seen as a cost-effective addition to modular setups, especially when System 500 modules are priced out.
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The System-1 is noted for its ability to produce a wide variety of sounds, making it suitable for genres like trip hop and downtempo.
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Value and pricing

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The System-1 is considered a strong value proposition, particularly when purchased at a lower price, offering high sound quality and features for the cost.
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User experience

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The System-1's digital waveforms are praised for their quality, especially in FM applications, attributed to its high internal sample rate.
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Some users find the System-1's keybed subpar, which may affect playability for those sensitive to keyboard quality.
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Owners note that the aesthetic appeal of the System-1, such as its green LEDs, adds to its charm despite mixed feelings about its sound.
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