Roland GR-700 Guitar Synthesizer

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4.5 (3)

2 Critic Reviews

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Page last updated Aug 10, 2025

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Description

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Step into a world of sonic exploration with the Roland GR-700 Guitar Synthesizer, a pivotal piece in the evolution of guitar synthesizers. Designed for guitarists eager to break boundaries, this pedal offers a seamless fusion between the traditional feel of a guitar and the expansive sound universe of a synthesizer. Engineered with Roland's commitment to innovation, the GR-700 is equipped with a dedicated synthesizer module that allows for a vast array of sound textures, from lush pads to punchy leads.

This pedal is not just about sound; it's about performance. The GR-700 features intuitive controls that provide real-time modifications, ensuring that your creativity remains unhindered. Paired with Roland's unique pitch-to-MIDI tracking technology, it offers precision in note detection, translating your guitar's nuances into expressive synthesizer sounds. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, this pedal empowers you to blend genres and craft unique soundscapes that resonate with your musical vision.

Key Features:

Dedicated synthesizer module for diverse sound textures
Real-time modification controls for on-the-fly adjustments
Roland's pitch-to-MIDI tracking technology for precise note detection
Seamless integration with compatible Roland guitar controllers
Multi-patch memory storage for easy access to your favorite settings
Rugged design built to withstand the demands of live performance
Versatile output options for connecting to amplifiers or mixing desks

Videos

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Analogger

Roland GR-700 Guitar Synth & 707 Guitar Controller

Analogger

Roland Gr-700 Guitar synth - Sounds Demo

skaboosh

Roland GR-700 Guitar Synthesizer | CME Vintage Gear Demo | Joel Baumann

Chicago Music Exchange

1985: MARK WOOD on the Roland GR-700 GUITAR SYNTH | Micro Live | Classic BBC Music | BBC Archive

BBC Archive

Roland GR-700 Guitar Synth // Demo & Walkthrough

Jorb

Steve Hackett Blistering Roland GR-700 Analog Guitar Synthesizer Solo with Steve Howe

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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 GR-700 Guitar Synthesizer.

Comparisons

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The Roland GR-700 is often compared to the Boss SY-1000, with the latter offering full sound programming control without needing a specialized pickup.
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Features and functionality

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Roland's recent synth pedals can connect to a regular guitar without requiring a specialized pickup, broadening usability.
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The GR-700 set the stage for Roland's dominance in the niche guitar synth market by using specialized pickups adaptable to most electric guitars.
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Use cases and applications

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Artists like Pat Metheny and Robert Fripp have incorporated guitar synths heavily into their music, illustrating its application in diverse musical styles.
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Mixing synth tone with bass tone is a popular approach among GR-700 users, despite tracking challenges.
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User experience

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Owners report that the GR-700's tracking can be unforgiving, especially with the fretless G77 bass variant.
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The GR-700's playability is often highlighted, with many users finding Roland guitars exceptionally comfortable.
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Value and pricing

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A fretless G77 bass is highly sought after due to its rarity, with potentially fewer than 10 units worldwide.
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Critic Reviews

Roland GR-700 G-707 Guitar Synthesizer System Review by John Themis - Guitarist Magazine May 1985

joness.com

The Roland GR-700 Guitar Synthesizer offers a compelling entry into the synth world for guitarists, showcasing a variety of sounds from Hammond organs to funky basses. Despite some triggering glitches and setup nuances, it stands out for its affordability and versatility. The accompanying G-707 guitar is praised for its precision and reliable tremolo. While initial setup may be cumbersome, with proper adjustments, the GR-700 can deliver satisfying performance. It's a recommended choice for guitarists seeking to expand their sonic palette without breaking the bank, making it a noteworthy addition to any serious player's arsenal.

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Roland GR-700 and GR-77B Guitar Player June 1986 by Tom Mulhern Product Review

joness.com

The Roland GR-700 Guitar Synthesizer, introduced in 1984, offers a rich analog sound combined with easy learning for guitarists. It features a sleek design, holds 64 internal programs, and allows additional storage with an M-16C cartridge. While it impresses with versatile onboard synth capabilities and smooth pitch bends, it lacks MIDI input and pitch-bend transmission, limiting expressive control. The lack of MIDI input makes using sequencers cumbersome, and its reliance on chromatic changes instead of continuous pitch-bending is a drawback for some guitarists. Despite these limitations, it serves as a robust tool for creating unique guitar synth sounds.

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4.5 out of 5

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