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Description

Elevate your guitar playing into the digital realm with the Roland GK2 Midi Pickup. Designed for guitarists who want to explore new sonic landscapes, this innovative accessory allows you to connect your guitar to a variety of MIDI-compatible devices. Whether you're a professional musician looking to expand your sound palette or an enthusiast eager to experiment, the GK2 offers seamless integration into your setup.

The Roland GK2 transforms your guitar into a MIDI powerhouse, enabling you to control synthesizers, record in digital audio workstations, and access virtual instruments with the expressiveness of your stringed instrument. Installation is straightforward, making it a suitable choice for both seasoned tech-savvy players and those new to MIDI technology. Its compatibility with a wide range of guitar models ensures that anyone can unlock a universe of musical possibilities.

Key Features:

  • Converts guitar signals into MIDI data
  • Compatible with a wide range of MIDI devices
  • Easy installation on most electric guitars
  • Provides dynamic control over synthesizers and DAWs
  • Ideal for creative exploration and live performances

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model GK-2A MIDI Guitar Pickup
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Made In Japan
Categories Guitar Pickups

FAQs

What is the Roland GK-2A MIDI Guitar Pickup used for?

The Roland GK-2A MIDI Guitar Pickup is used to convert your guitar's string vibrations into MIDI signals, allowing you to control synthesizers and other MIDI devices with your guitar.

Is the Roland GK-2A compatible with all electric guitars?

The Roland GK-2A is designed to be compatible with most electric guitars. It attaches near the bridge and connects to a compatible MIDI interface or synthesizer.

Does the Roland GK-2A require any modifications to my guitar?

The Roland GK-2A is designed for easy installation with minimal modification. It typically attaches with adhesive or screws, depending on your preference and guitar type.

Can the Roland GK-2A handle polyphonic playing?

Yes, the Roland GK-2A can handle polyphonic playing, allowing you to play chords and complex arrangements while sending MIDI data.

What kind of MIDI devices can I control with the Roland GK-2A?

The Roland GK-2A can control a wide range of MIDI devices, including synthesizers, sound modules, and software instruments, enhancing your playing with diverse sound possibilities.

Nick Leonard

Nick Leonard

First Time with a MIDI Guitar | Roland GK-2A

Video thumbnail for First Time with a MIDI Guitar | Roland GK-2A by Nick Leonard

First Time with a MIDI Guitar | Roland GK-2A

Nick Leonard

Nick Leonard

Video thumbnail for MIDI Guitar (Roland GK-2A + Roland GI-10 + Roland MT-100) by Japhy Riddle

MIDI Guitar (Roland GK-2A + Roland GI-10 + Roland MT-100)

Japhy Riddle

Japhy Riddle

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland GK2 Midi Pickup.

Comparisons

  • The Roland GK-2 pickup paired with a GI-10 converter outperforms newer systems like Jamstik and Fishman in terms of reliability and tracking.

    Source
  • Roland's SY-1000 is noted for having comprehensive synth features but lacks direct MIDI note output, contrasting with simpler models like the GP-10 which offers MIDI via USB.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The GK-2 requires a 13-pin cable and a proprietary Roland receiver to convert audio to MIDI data for synth control.

    Source
  • The Fishman Tripleplay Connect offers either a single MIDI channel for all strings or separate channels (1-6) for each string, but lacks easy channel switching.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Roland's GI-10 and GI-20 units provide MIDI output for direct synth control and can connect to DAWs via USB interfaces.

    Source
  • Fishman USB dongle requires connection to a computer or Fishman Foot Controller and cannot directly connect to synths with USB MIDI ports.

    Source

Build quality

  • Jamstik's 3.5mm MIDI jack placement is problematic, often leading to broken adapters during use.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Roland's system allows for mapping each guitar string to different MIDI channels, enhancing control over synths.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report the Fishman system's MIDI channel limitations make it less ideal for live performances, suggesting it might be better for composition.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users find Roland's vintage GM-70 and GK-1 combo to be a cost-effective choice, despite erratic tracking on older systems.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Consider using Raspberry Pi-based solutions for creating a cost-effective MIDI host box instead of pricier standalone options.

    Source

3.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matthew Bellamy uses Roland GK2 Midi Pickup

Matthew Bellamy

Singer, Guitarist

Muse

...
Verified via MusicRadar

This MIDI pickup is fitted onto Matt's Delorean guitar, as shown in page 4 of this picture article.

See how Trent Reznor uses Roland GK2 Midi Pickup

Trent Reznor

Singer, Guitarist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via I Heart Guitar

this is mentioned to be used on a prs custom 22

See how Amir Derakh uses Roland GK2 Midi Pickup

Amir Derakh

Guitarist

Orgy

...
Verified via Photo

Amir uses Roland GK2 pickups, according to Guitar Geek's rig diagram.

See how The Flashbulb (Benn Jordan) uses Roland GK2 Midi Pickup

The Flashbulb (Benn Jordan)

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "The Flashbulb - Improvised MIDI Guitar," The Flashbulb (Benn Jordan) showcases his use of the Roland GK2 Midi Pickup.

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 GK2 Midi Pickup, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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