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Average Price: $761

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$500

$1501+

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Description

Dive into a world of rich tonal possibilities with the Roland Boutique VP-03, where classic vocoding meets modern versatility. Its compact design packs a punch with the Voice Step Sequencer and dual ribbon strips, offering a seamless integration of traditional and innovative controls for both studio and live settings. Whether you're crafting intricate melodies or exploring the depths of vocal synthesis, the VP-03 stands ready to inspire your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Voice Step Sequencer: Offers 16 steps with up to 6 notes each for complex patterns.
  • Dual ribbon strips: Enhance expressiveness and control in performances.
  • Vocoder functionality with chord memory for dynamic vocal effects.
  • Includes a gooseneck mic, perfect for live vocoding.
  • Versatile connectivity: XLR input, line/headphone out, MIDI in/out, USB powered.
  • Covers a wide range of sounds: Strings, Human Voice, and Vibrato for creative flexibility.

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model VP-03 Boutique Series Vocoder Plus Synthesizer Module
Finish Black
Year 2016 - 2025
Categories Desktop Synths, Digital Synthesizers
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Polyphony 6 Voices

FAQs

Is the Roland Boutique VP-03 polyphonic or monophonic?

The Roland Boutique VP-03 is polyphonic, offering 6-voice polyphony, which allows for richer and more complex chordal textures in your performances.

What kind of MIDI connectivity does the Roland VP-03 offer?

The Roland VP-03 features both MIDI Input and Output, as well as USB MIDI, providing versatile options for integrating with other MIDI-compatible equipment and DAWs.

Does the Roland VP-03 come with built-in vocoder capabilities?

Yes, the Roland VP-03 includes vocoder functionality, allowing you to create classic vocoder sounds by processing your voice or other inputs through its sound engine.

Can the Roland VP-03 be powered via USB?

The Roland VP-03 can be powered via USB, making it convenient for use with computers and portable setups without the need for an additional power adapter.

How does the Roland VP-03 differ from other Roland Boutique series synthesizers?

The Roland VP-03 is unique in the Boutique series for its vocoder capabilities, while other models may focus on different synthesis methods or sound emulations.

Kosmic Sound

Kosmic Sound

Roland VP-03 Vocoder In Depth Review

Video thumbnail for Roland VP-03 Vocoder In Depth Review by Kosmic Sound

Roland VP-03 Vocoder In Depth Review

Kosmic Sound

Kosmic Sound

Video thumbnail for Roland Boutique Start - VP-03 Vocoder Synthesizer Tutorial by RolandChannel

Roland Boutique Start - VP-03 Vocoder Synthesizer Tutorial

RolandChannel

RolandChannel

Video thumbnail for Vocoder Roundup - Roland Boutique VP-03, MicroKORG, Xils V+, Digitech Talker by Starsky Carr

Vocoder Roundup - Roland Boutique VP-03, MicroKORG, Xils V+, Digitech Talker

Starsky Carr

Starsky Carr

Video thumbnail for Roland Boutique TB-03, TR-09, and VP-03 Demo by Sweetwater by Sweetwater

Roland Boutique TB-03, TR-09, and VP-03 Demo by Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for ONE MINUTE SYNTH REVIEW!!! Ep. 15 Roland VP-03 Vocoder by Noir Et Blanc Vie

ONE MINUTE SYNTH REVIEW!!! Ep. 15 Roland VP-03 Vocoder

Noir Et Blanc Vie

Noir Et Blanc Vie

Video thumbnail for Roland VP-03 Vocoder | Everything You Need To Know by Sam Ash Music

Roland VP-03 Vocoder | Everything You Need To Know

Sam Ash Music

Sam Ash Music

Video thumbnail for Roland VP-03 vs. Behringer VC340 - Vocoder Comparison by Easy Tiger

Roland VP-03 vs. Behringer VC340 - Vocoder Comparison

Easy Tiger

Easy Tiger

Video thumbnail for First Look at the Roland VP-03 Vocoder by Thomann's Guitars & Basses

First Look at the Roland VP-03 Vocoder

Thomann's Guitars & Basses

Thomann's Guitars & Basses

Video thumbnail for Roland VP-03 Vocoder Synth Preview by PMTVUK

Roland VP-03 Vocoder Synth Preview

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Sound Familiar #13 - A Vocoder? Mmm, What You Say? - Roland VP-03 Boutique by Andertons Synths, Keys and Tech

Sound Familiar #13 - A Vocoder? Mmm, What You Say? - Roland VP-03 Boutique

Andertons Synths, Keys and Tech

Andertons Synths, Keys and Tech

Reviews

PROS

  • Authentic emulation of VP-330's vibe

  • Intuitive and well-built

  • Clear sounding vocoder

  • Versatile with battery power option

  • Good for compact setups

  • Voice Step Sequencer stands out as a new feature

CONS

  • High price not justified by some

  • Included gooseneck microphone of low quality

  • Weak sound output compared to other models

  • Construction not suited for live performance

  • Lacks dedicated power supply input

  • Outputs are 1/8" minijacks, seen as a downside

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland Boutique VP-03.

Features and functionality

  • The VP-03 has a hidden function that allows users to change the formant by holding the memory button and pressing Step 10, enhancing vocoder clarity.

    Source
  • The VP-03 includes a set of sliders labeled as "STRINGS," hinting at string and possibly choir sound capabilities like its predecessor, the VP-330.

    Source
  • Enthusiasts speculate on the possibility of the VP-03 offering more than four-note polyphony, which would be a first for the Boutique series.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that altering the formant via the mod strip significantly improves intelligibility and overall sound quality, potentially changing users' opinions on keeping the device.

    Source
  • Some users express concern about the XLR placement on the front panel, fearing it may interfere with tiny faders or sustain damage.

    Source
  • Owners who enjoy vocoder effects in tracks from artists like Röyksopp are likely to appreciate the VP-03's capabilities.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Roland product manuals are often criticized except for models like the TR8S and SH32, suggesting a need for better documentation for the VP-03.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The VP-03 offers a unique form factor as a compact synth and vocoder combo, unlike larger alternatives like the Mininova or Ultranova.

    Source
  • The VP-03 is preferred over the MS2000b for its smaller size, making it more convenient for compact setups.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The VP-03 may be one of the few synth+vocoder options in a Boutique size, appealing to those seeking compact, all-in-one solutions.

    Source
  • The VP-03 is favored by users who prioritize portability alongside strong vocoder functionality.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Roland Boutique VP-03

soundonsound.com

The Roland Boutique VP-03 impressively emulates the iconic VP330 vocoder, offering remarkable sound quality for its size and price. Its MIDI capabilities and additional features, like the chord memory and sequencer, add value. However, it lacks an external synth input and phase cancellation issues affect sound quality. The reliance on USB for power and audio, alongside lightweight connectors, raises concerns for live use. While not a complete VP330 replacement, it’s a fun, affordable alternative with limitations that may deter some users. Ideal for studio enthusiasts, but live performers might seek sturdier options.

Roland Boutique VP-03 Vocoder review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Roland Boutique VP-03 is a solid nod to the classic VP-330, offering authentic vintage vocoder sounds with modern ACB technology. Praised for its clear sound and intuitive design, it excels with '70s-style strings and human voices. The unit's build quality and visual feedback through lit fader tops are commendable. However, the lack of a dedicated power supply input and the impractical short mic gooseneck are drawbacks. It’s a bit pricey, but its sequencer and versatility make it a worthy choice for fans of retro vibes. Overall, a promising addition to the Boutique range.

positive

Roland Boutique TR-09, TB-03 & VP-03 Review - Return of the Machines

musictech.com

The Roland Boutique VP-03 is a nostalgic powerhouse for vocoder enthusiasts, capturing the essence of the original VP-330 with its rich, harmonically satisfying sounds. The included mic is functional, though upgrading it improves results. However, its six-note polyphony limitation is a notable drawback, stifling the potential for expansive string and voice harmonies. The lack of an included stand is another downside, adding to the cost. Despite these setbacks, the VP-03 excels in delivering classic vocoder soundscapes, perfect for those seeking vintage vibes in a compact package.

positive
Add

4.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 16 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
tehu
tehu

163

Great sound, cheap construction

This is a love and hate situation with this guy, I love the sounds, really close to my RS101 for the strings and the choir are beautiful. But the construction quality on this is awefull for live situation. USB Powered, 1/8 output minijacks and the unit is too lightweight, when everything is pluged in the back, it almost fall backward without the mic pluged in. These are not features well receive in a live situation.

clabeux

Lovely little thing

Lovely sound. Easy to use. Battery powered. I love it!

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dirty South uses Roland Boutique VP-03

Dirty South

Music Producer

...
Verified via Instagram

The module at the bottom of this photo posted by Dirty South is the Roland VP-03 Vocoder. He says:

"The trifecta of old school goes new school is complete...and yes the old original analog versions are nice...but these babies sound wonderful and i say, just make music with whatever inspires you... @roland_us"

See how Andy Morin uses Roland Boutique VP-03

Andy Morin

Bassist, Keyboardist

Death Grips

...
Verified via Imgur

The VP-03 Vocoder can be seen on the floor next to a Korg Monolouge in this (now deleted) Instagram picture.

See how Junkie XL uses Roland Boutique VP-03

Junkie XL

Composer, Music Producer

Tiësto vs. Junkie XL

...
Verified via reverb.com

"Then I did this other project last year which was a documentary for Red Bull. It's called Distance Between Dreams with Ian Walsh, the star surfer. That was a very soft, ambient electronic score. I did everything live with MIDI and just mixed it on the board and that was the end result. I used the Jupiter-8 for that, the Jupiter-6, the Juno-6 with the sequencer, the MSQ, the Roland 60, the 106, also the GB4, Roland VP-03, the vocoder. I used a Roland S-770 sampler, which has a really great tone to it. A couple of Yamaha synthesizers, the CS-60, the CS-70M—all pretty rare machines to have. But for that kind of stuff they sound so fantastic."

See how Akira Yamaoka uses Roland Boutique VP-03

Akira Yamaoka

Guitarist, Composer

Konami Kukeiha Club

...
Verified via Photo

"Got it. ????????????????????#vocoder"

See how Daedelus uses Roland Boutique VP-03

Daedelus

Music Producer

The Long Lost

...
Verified via YouTube

The VP-03 can be seen throughout the video

See how Gracie Abrams uses Roland Boutique VP-03

Gracie Abrams

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

As you can see in this picture, this is Roland Vocoder VP-03. Gracie is clearly pictured and has posted video to social media in the past using this.

See how A Guy Called Gerald uses Roland Boutique VP-03

A Guy Called Gerald

Music Producer

808 State

...
Verified via YouTube

can be seen throughout the video

See how Emile Haynie uses Roland Boutique VP-03

Emile Haynie

Music Producer

...
Verified via Soundonsound

In this article it says Emile Haynie uses the Roland VP-03 boutique module and is shown in one of the photos

See how Jeremy Schmidt uses Roland Boutique VP-03

Jeremy Schmidt

Keyboardist

Black Mountain

...
Verified via YouTube

In the WDR Rockpalast video of Black Mountain's performance at the Freak Valley Festival 2022, Jeremy Schmidt can be seen using the Roland Boutique VP-03 synthesizer at the 2:17 mark.

See how upusen uses Roland Boutique VP-03

upusen

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Twitter

In this post, a Roland VP-03 is clearly visible on his desk.

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 Boutique VP-03, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
dandydust

dandydust

Gear IQ 180

dandydust

dandydust

Gear IQ 180

matiasdapena

matiasdapena

Gear IQ 166

2 alternative and related items for Roland Boutique VP-03, curated by the Equipboard community.

Roland VP-330 Vocoder Plus

$2,605.05

Vintage or Discontinued

Almost as rare as the original, the newer Roland Boutique series is another hidden gem of a synth. Buried inside its solid metal structure (yeah heavy) is very, very, small circuitry.... lol.. call me Captain.... Obvious... and a Sampler.... and a compression filtered talkbox, a Vocoder, a String Synth, a Vocant Controller Synth, a Vocant Recorder, a Vocant Chorus Delay with really awesome ooooohs and aaaahs... that can be dialed in so close... they sounded like I was playing a Mellotron when I closed my eyes... the breath can be pitched short to sound like a tape machine playing lol... it's a fantastic synth that once again reviewers did not go full course on. It just has so much to talk about. Oh did I say it has a Sampler.... well I couldn't get it to work!...yet. I'm a musical idiot remember? Sooooo.... as it goes.... you select any current slot buttons 1-16 then while holding down the PLAY/STOP button you record you sample via Microphone or anything else plugged into the XLR port, (Turntable, Synth, Drum Machine, Pocket Operator, Radio Station, TV, yeah... any sound device) then let go of (stop pressing) the PLAY/STOP button to automatically save it to the slot/Button you first selected.... get it? I didn't... but I will not give up!~! Here's some more on that feature, they made a video in Australia by Roland its good...https://youtu.be/Vrlkm6KRxWM

Also you can get some more information on the hiden feattures over in the Roland Blog in Australia... its better than the US blog for some reason.. not sure why they don't combine but who knows...https://rolandcorp.com.au/blog/boutique-more-hidden-features

The VP-03 has a Voice (vocant recorder they call a Voice Step Sequencer) very powerful for live recording of the strangeness that lurks within...works great with Ableton and everyting else!

This synth creates the wonderful... the divine.... synth vocals in the music O Superman by Laurie Anderson. She used the original on her song, but on mine I used this in lots of new ways... O Superman if you've never heard it or seen Mrs Anderson use the VP-330 whoa ... you're in for a treat! but it will make you want one, so be warned synthheads.lol!!! ... "O Superman," from Laurie Anderson's 1982 debut album, 'Big Science.' https://youtu.be/Vkfpi2H8tOE

THIS IS AN AMAZING SYNTH!!! CHECK OUT MORE ITEMS @: https://www.SNÖKing.com

@@HEAR THE VP-03 ON MY LATEST TRACK@@ https://youtu.be/uuhGWxv8vyk

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