Roland D-5 Linear Synthesizer

$206.16 Price Tier: Budget

4.0 (3)

2 Critic Reviews

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Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

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5.0 (1)

$206.16 4 available Used

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Average Price: $206

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In the Synthesizers category, Roland D-5 Linear Synthesizer is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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Description

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Unlock the vintage charm and digital prowess of the Roland D-5 Linear Synthesizer, a classic gem from the late '80s that continues to captivate musicians with its unique soundscapes. This synthesizer is a part of the acclaimed D-series, renowned for its distinctive approach to sound synthesis through Linear Arithmetic (LA) technology. With 61 velocity-sensitive keys, the D-5 offers players an expansive range to explore a myriad of tones and textures suitable for any musical genre.

The Roland D-5 is designed to be both user-friendly and versatile, making it an excellent choice for both beginners looking to dive into the world of synthesis and seasoned professionals seeking that unmistakable vintage sound. Its interface is straightforward, allowing easy navigation and patch editing, ensuring that you spend more time creating and less time tweaking. The synthesizer is equipped with a range of preset patches that showcase its ability to produce anything from lush pads to sharp leads.

The D-5 also includes MIDI capabilities, providing seamless integration with other gear in your setup, whether for live performance or studio recording. Despite its age, the D-5 remains a cherished tool for many musicians who appreciate its nostalgic sound and reliable performance.

Key Features:

61 velocity-sensitive keys
Linear Arithmetic (LA) synthesis technology
Extensive range of preset patches
User-friendly interface for easy navigation and patch editing
MIDI capabilities for integration with other equipment
Classic vintage sound from the late '80s

Product specs

Brand	Roland
Model	D-5 61-Key Multi-Timbral Linear Synthesizer
Finish	Black
Year	1989 - 1992
Made In	Japan
Categories	Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Digital
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys	61 Keys
Polyphony	32 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Roland D-5 use?: The Roland D-5 utilizes Linear Arithmetic (LA) synthesis, which combines traditional subtractive synthesis with PCM-based samples for versatile sound creation.
How many voices of polyphony does the Roland D-5 offer?: The Roland D-5 provides 32 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex and layered sound performances.
Does the Roland D-5 have built-in effects or a sequencer?: The Roland D-5 does not feature built-in effects or a sequencer, focusing instead on delivering the core sounds of its D-series predecessors.
Can the Roland D-5 be used with external MIDI devices?: Yes, the Roland D-5 includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through, making it compatible with external MIDI devices for expanded functionality.
Is the Roland D-5 suitable for live performances?: With its 61 full-size keys and synth action, the Roland D-5 is well-suited for live performances, offering a responsive playing experience.

Videos

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Keyboardistmatt

The Sounds I Make #3 - Roland D-5 demo

Keyboardistmatt

Repairing a dirty synth from 1989! ROLAND D5

The Repair Lair

Roland D5 | Roland D5 review | Roland D5 synthesizer

Rockstar Music Store

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Ted murena

Roland D5 Arpeggio - Great Feature and how to use it Plus how to make the Yamaha DX-7 Awesome.

Ted murena

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland D-5 Linear Synthesizer.

Features and functionality

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The D-5 lacks aftertouch, similar to other D-series models except the D-50, and has limited velocity sensitivity, adjustable per patch only.
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The "Perform" bank allows for layering or splitting of Multi-Timbral patches, with many sounds being typical 80s cliches like "Ice Rains."
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The D-5 includes unique MIDI features like chase, arpeggiator, and unusual chord modes, enhancing its versatility despite its interface challenges.
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The D-5, D-10, and D-20 models include a built-in drum machine, broadening their potential use in compositions.
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Build quality

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Owners note the keyboard's robustness, likening it to a "tank," but buttons often wear out, requiring hard or side presses to function.
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User experience

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Owners find the D-5's keyboard preferable to newer models like the FA series, despite its limitations.
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Users have noted that mastering the complex menu system requires an initial learning curve, but becomes easier with practice and muscle memory.
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Use cases and applications

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The D-5 is recommended primarily for its sound module capabilities rather than as a MIDI controller, due to its lack of certain MIDI functionalities.
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Despite its limitations, the D-5 is valued for crafting unique sounds that are difficult to replicate on modern synths, highlighting its character and distinctiveness.
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Mods and upgrades

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Some owners have successfully expanded the sound capabilities of the D-series using sysex files to emulate classic drum machines without hardware modifications.
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Other

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The D-5's sound engine can be manipulated to produce emulated sounds from iconic Roland drum machines, such as the CR-78, 808, and 909, using sysex files.
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Critic Reviews

Roland D5 (MT Jul 89)

muzines.co.uk

The Roland D-5 synthesizer, a budget-friendly entry into the L/A synthesis world, offers the same core capabilities as its pricier siblings, the D10 and D20, but trims down features to hit a lower price point. While it maintains multitimbral capabilities and basic sound quality, it omits onboard effects like reverb and delay, which might deter those seeking an all-in-one solution. The D5 introduces patch effects like Chord Play and Chase Play, but their limited utility and lack of MIDI integration make them a mixed bag. For musicians deciding between the D5 and D10, the choice hinges on whether onboard effects or saving money for an external processor is more appealing. Overall, the D5 is a decent option for budget-conscious buyers, but it might not be the most compelling choice for those seeking comprehensive functionality.

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