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Average Price: $190

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$150

$601+

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Description

Unleash your guitar's true potential with the Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer, a treasure chest of sound that transforms your instrument into a full-blown orchestra. With its roots in the legendary Roland JV-1080 synthesis module, the GR-33 doesn't just add effects; it morphs your guitar into a myriad of musical voices. From the crystalline shimmer of strings to the gritty growl of a synth bass, this pedal pushes the boundaries of what a guitar can do. Whether you're crafting layers for a composition or seeking that unique sound for your next gig, the GR-33 is your portal to sonic nirvana, without the need for a PhD in synthesis. Dive into a universe of sound that's as intuitive as it is boundless, all at your toe-tips.

Key Features:

  • 384 instrument samples from the renowned Roland JV-1080 synth module
  • Wide range of tones from metallic FM synthesis to organic analog sounds
  • Dedicated effects section for chorus and reverb, plus 40 additional effects including rotary and phasing
  • User-friendly interface for easy sound selection and tweaking
  • Versatile enough for studio recording or live performance settings

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model GR-33
Finish Black
Year 2000s
Made In Japan
Categories Guitar Synths

FAQs

What type of guitar pickup is compatible with the Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer?

The Roland GR-33 is compatible with Roland's GK-2A or GK-3 divided pickup, which allows for polyphonic tracking and triggering of the synth sounds.

Does the Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer require any additional equipment to function?

Yes, to fully utilize the Roland GR-33, you need a compatible divided pickup like the Roland GK-3, and a 13-pin cable to connect the pickup to the synthesizer.

Can the Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer produce both guitar and synth sounds simultaneously?

Yes, the GR-33 can blend guitar and synth sounds, allowing you to layer them for a richer sound experience during performances or recordings.

How many preset sounds does the Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer offer?

The Roland GR-33 features over 350 preset sounds, covering a wide range of instruments and synth tones, providing extensive versatility for various musical styles.

Is the Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer suitable for live performances?

Yes, the GR-33 is designed for live use, with features like footswitch controls and patch memory, making it easy to switch sounds and settings on stage.

RaerY1959

RaerY1959

Roland GR 33 Checkin'Out all Presets(1)

Video thumbnail for Roland GR 33 Checkin'Out all Presets(1) by RaerY1959

Roland GR 33 Checkin'Out all Presets(1)

RaerY1959

RaerY1959

Video thumbnail for Roland GR-33 MIDI Guitar Synthesizer Presets by Nail Guitar Skills

Roland GR-33 MIDI Guitar Synthesizer Presets

Nail Guitar Skills

Nail Guitar Skills

Video thumbnail for Roland GR-33 Preset Sounds by Nail Guitar Skills

Roland GR-33 Preset Sounds

Nail Guitar Skills

Nail Guitar Skills

Video thumbnail for 2000 Roland GR-33 Demonstration Video HD by Matt's Time Machine

2000 Roland GR-33 Demonstration Video HD

Matt's Time Machine

Matt's Time Machine

Video thumbnail for Roland GR-33 Carless whisper Intro by Paulo Villamante

Roland GR-33 Carless whisper Intro

Paulo Villamante

Paulo Villamante

Video thumbnail for Roland GR-33 guitar synthesizer Godin LGX-SA demo by MrKramble

Roland GR-33 guitar synthesizer Godin LGX-SA demo

MrKramble

MrKramble

Video thumbnail for Episode 27 - Roland GR-33 Guitar Synth by Sound, Lights and Video

Episode 27 - Roland GR-33 Guitar Synth

Sound, Lights and Video

Sound, Lights and Video

Reviews

PROS

  • Offers a wide selection of unique sounds

  • Opens up new dimensions for sound creation

  • Encourages creativity with endless musical possibilities

  • Good for solo performances in intimate settings

  • Can blend guitar and synthesized sounds for unique effects

  • Suitable for both built-in and attachable pickups

  • Great entry point for exploring guitar synths

CONS

  • Learning curve is steep, requiring days of practice

  • Sounds may feel a bit dated compared to newer technology

  • Requires purchase of a separate 13 pin guitar cord

  • Adjustments needed for optimal performance with attachable pickups

  • Additional foot pedals necessary, adding complexity

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer.

Setup and maintenance

  • Users report that hexaphonic pickups, like those on the GR-33, are extremely sensitive, often registering unintended string touches.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Setting the GR-33 to mono-mode can be tricky; users experience it still sending chords despite settings adjustments.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The GR-55 model is noted to offer better tracking capabilities compared to the GR-33, with some users still unable to discern a significant difference.

    Source
  • Users prefer the GR-33 for live use due to its superior tracking and sound quality compared to older models like the GR-50.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Open-source editors are available for the GR-55, providing expanded patch editing capabilities, which could enhance user experience over the GR-33.

    Source

User experience

  • Playing style adjustments are necessary with the GR-33; users find they must play carefully to avoid unwanted sensitivity triggers.

    Source
  • Owners often struggle with the GR-33's complexity, leading to less frequent use than anticipated.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users replace the GK2 pickup with a Godin LGX-SA or a Godin Nylon SA for improved tracking and performance.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Used Godin LGX-SA guitars can be found between $900-$1000, presenting a more affordable option for those seeking better synth access.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The GR-33 is favored for live performances over other models due to its reliable tracking capabilities.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Roland GR33

soundonsound.com

Roland's GR-33 guitar synth impresses with its affordability and high-quality JV sound engine, making it a standout for guitarists eager to explore synthesis. Fast tracking and an integral expression pedal add to its playability. While editing could be more robust, the synth offers a rich tonal palette and excellent effects. However, the lack of MIDI arpeggiator sync and limited harmony output over MIDI are small setbacks. Overall, for under £500, the GR-33 provides a compelling package for both studio and live use, proving that Roland's persistence in guitar synthesis is well-justified.

positive

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 8 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Steve Vai uses Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer

Steve Vai

Guitarist

Whitesnake

...
Verified via Roland

Listed on Steve's official Roland page.

See how Yngwie Malmsteen uses Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer

Yngwie Malmsteen

Guitarist, Bassist

The G3 Jam

...
Verified via BOSS

"What happened was, for 12 years I always used a keyboard player and a drum programmer for my Roland R-8 MKII, which is a bitchin’ drum machine! The keyboard player and I had a falling out and I wound up sitting in my studio all alone. I was writing songs like “Stronghold” and “Attack” — good riffs if I may say so. But I felt there was something missing, so I went to the store and what did I do? I bought a guitar synth because I just wanted to hear what it would sound like if a keyboard player like Derek Sherinian or someone who could play some interesting stuff on there. Reason being, I didn’t have somebody with me. I just wanted to add something that would help me come up with vocals and lyrics. I write all that stuff. I write every thing, you know? So that is how I use the GR-33."

See how Steve Stevens uses Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer

Steve Stevens

Guitarist

Michael Jackson (band)

...
Verified via YouTube

At 22:48 of this "Rig Rundown" with Premier Guitar we're shown Steve's GR-33.

See how Chris Broderick uses Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer

Chris Broderick

Guitarist

Megadeth

...
Verified via Chrisbroderick

Chris Broderick mentions on his website that he owns a Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer, describing it as an "awesome musical tool."

See how Haruomi Hosono uses Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer

Haruomi Hosono

Singer, Bassist

Yellow Magic Orchestra

...
Verified via Photo

Haruomi Hosono used the Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer as part of Yellow Magic Orchestra's setup during their 1980 world tour, as shown in a user-uploaded photo on Geocities.

See how David Lynch uses Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer

David Lynch

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In this article from BOSS Users Group magazine (Vol. 5, No. 1 Summer 2001), David details his guitar rig at the time, which included an GR-33.

See how Béla Fleck uses Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer

Béla Fleck

Composer

New Grass Revival

...
Verified via Emusician

“I have a lot of systems onstage: an acoustic banjo, an electric, a synth system for an electric, a guitar, a wireless system, preamps, and EQs,” he explains. “It's a lot of stuff, so I just use the onboard sounds. Live, the Roland GR-33 works just fine.”

See how Phil Oakey uses Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer

Phil Oakey

Singer, Keyboardist

The Human League

...
Verified via The-black-hit-of-space

Guitar gear for the album Octopus: Peavey Heritage amp Roland Bolt 60 amp Vox AC30 amp Roland: GR-707 (x2); GR-303; GM-70; GR-33B; GR-300; GR-700 (x3)

M

Michael Kang

Guitarist

The String Cheese Incident

...
Verified via Premierguitar

As the de-facto lead guitarist, er mando-man, Kang bounces between his Ron Oates Custom 5-string Octave Mandolin or Walker Electric 5-string Octave Mandolin. To amplify his custom 5-strings, he cranks up a Two-Rock Custom Reverb and Groove Tubes D75 Power Amp through a Bogner 2x12 cab. His two-board setup boasts a DigiTech XP100 Whammy Wah, a Electro-Harmonix Micro Metal Muff, a Electro-Harmonix Micro POG, a Electro-Harmonix Micro Synth, a Electro-Harmonix Q-Tron, a Line 6 DL4, a Keeley Phaser, a Fulltone Full-Drive 2, a Keeley-modded Ibanez TS808 Tube Screamer, a Keeley Katana Clean Boost, a Boss TU-2 Chromatic Tuner, a Maxon Compressor, a Ernie Ball Volume Pedal, a Roland GR-33 Guitar Synth, a TC Electronic G-Force, a Sarno Music Solutions Steel Guitar Black Box, and the boxes are powered by a Voodoo Lab Ground Control and a Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2+. And his uses various Elixir strings and Fender Extra Heavy picks.

Album Usage

The Roland GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer has been featured on the following albums:

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 GR-33 Guitar Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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